Born for speed, reborn for purpose.
This historic Studebaker begins a new chapter on the road to Targa Newfoundland.
Targa Newfoundland 2025 — A Personal Mission
It is September, Dr. John Johnson—a biological dentist and implant specialist—is racing his 1953 Studebaker Champion in the iconic Targa Newfoundland Rally.
The car was shipped to Newfoundland ahead of the race, and Dr. Johnson, along with his co-driver, flew in to meet it. This isn't a sponsored campaign—it’s a personal journey. A way to live the same precision and passion he brings to patient care.
This isn’t just a race. It’s a story in motion.
About Targa Newfoundland
A Legendary Road Rally. A One-of-a-Kind Experience.
Targa Newfoundland is North America’s only tarmac rally—a six-day race across 1,600+ kilometers of stunning, closed-road stages through some of the most rugged and scenic terrain on the continent.
Inspired by Italy’s legendary Targa Florio, the Newfoundland event blends speed, scenery, and community in a way no other race does.
For Dr. Johnson, this experience reflects the same pursuit of excellence he brings to the operatory—where focus, craftsmanship, and precision matter.
From Panamericana to Newfoundland
Where the Legacy Was Born
The Studebaker Champion wasn’t built for the garage—it was built for glory. Originally prepared to compete in the 2007 La Carrera Panamericana rally in Mexico, this car carved its identity on the legendary roads of one of the world’s most demanding open-road races.
Now, almost two decades later, it’s being brought back to life—not just to race again, but to carry a new mission rooted in health, education, and high performance.
Watch this Studebaker in action during the 2007 Panamericana—an origin story that sets the stage for what comes next.
The Road In Motion
Precision, Purpose, and the Push for Excellence
Dr. Johnson has arrived in Newfoundland, and the Studebaker Champion is prepped and race-ready. Throughout the rally, this page will serve as a live journal—sharing updates, reflections, and visuals as the race unfolds.
Whether you’re a patient, a fellow practitioner, or someone who appreciates the intersection of discipline and performance, this is a window into the journey.
Follow along as we bring you behind the scenes of Targa Newfoundland—from early mornings and winding roads to the deeper meaning that drives it all.
Follow the Journey
This is a one-man campaign. But it’s not a solo story.
If you’re a patient, follower, or fellow health professional, we invite you to check back here for regular updates as Dr. Johnson pushes the Studebaker—and himself along with his co-driver—through the winding coastal stages of Newfoundland.
This race is one chapter in a longer mission: to live the values we speak about—precision, purpose, and pursuit of something better.
Shout Box!
Fill out the form to send Dr. Johnson a message of encouragement or just to say “Hi” and we’ll post it to the message wall on this page for him to read!
Messages for Dr. Johnson
“Wishing you smooth roads and clear skies, Dr. J. The way you bring the same focus to both your practice and your passion is inspiring to all of us back home.”
— Susan K
“Go John Go!!!! Have the most amazing experience, Dr. Johnson!
I can’t wait to hear more of the story next time I see you!.”
— Trisha Koehler
“Wishing you much rest between the physical and mental challenge ahead”
— Lou Peskay
“Dr John you run the race!
To God be The Glory!
Blessings!”
— Alyce Caldwell
“Enjoy the beauty of Canada!”
— MJ Sunny Zank
“The Klopfer's from Dover are cheering for you on this special journey!”
— Jane & Bob Klopfer
“Wishing you the best experience in every way.”
— Latifa Amahzoune
“This race is the perfect metaphor for how you approach dentistry—precise, intentional, and never afraid to push the limits. Cheering you on every mile!
— Markus V
“This is so exciting!! Wishing you godspeed Dr Johnson!! (Literally God-speed!) 😊🙏.”
— Sharla Clark
“ I wish we could be there to cheer you on. Dave’s Mom is from Newfoundland. We look forward to hearing about you adventure during our next dental appointments. ”
— Donna Marie and Dave Golden
“All the best, Dr. J! Hoping the precision and focus you bring to the office is "firing on all cylinders" as you race to the finish!”
— Heidi Ferguson
“You go, Dr. Johnson!!!!! What an exciting adventure!”
— Sheryl B
“Wow! Wishing you the best ride! It takes courage to follow your dreams and do something you're passionate about. This journey is inspiring! I always considered you a cool dentist, now you're a super cool dentist! 😉🏎️🏁”
— Lexy McElfresh
“Best to you Dr. Johnson! Really nice car !”
— Dave & Brenda Marino
“So proud of you, Dr. Johnson! You’ve always said health is a journey—and now you’re literally proving it. Enjoy every second.”
— Annette C
“Enjoy the Ride 🚗🚗🚘🚘.”
— Tricia Brown
“May you persevere and find much satisfaction in doing your best!”
— Sally Sommers
“Press on Doctor...you two have replaced Sherlock and Watson as my favourite partners in Crime!!! Doctor Johnson....Your co-driver is a long time friend and a Bona Fide Hard Ass Super Driver with an all consuming desire to both win and push all around him to reach and usually surpass their potentials.........I am excited to say the least and through Norm, a dedicated fan of all things Doctor Johnson! No luck needed....only the shadow of the gods to decide if Norm has pissed them off enough of late to turn the other way!...big feet mean oversized mouth to fill NON TIME SED CAVE. How I look at Norm...Pedal to the Metal.......Now a full on Studebaker Fan....can hardly wait to gather the final Targa results and begin my research into Doctor Johnson !!!! :}~~”
— John Strachan
“Go get em’ Dr. Johnson!!! Have fun and be careful! “
— Ashley Brooks
