Years have gone by since Johnny Rocca learned of his Native American heritage. The impact of his family history gave Rocca the determination to make his own way in the world. Graduating from college paved the way for business success. His financial advantages enabled the extensive racing career which he has enjoyed since the late '50's. The world of Johnny Rocca the businessman, family man and drag racer is truly an American dream come true.

Johnny Rocca has produced some of the most recognizable drag cars and certainly one of the most widely respected names. From the Fuel Altered days, the NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster "The Chicken Chokers," to Ironhorse, the most popular Pro Modified in IHRA competition, Rocca found his forum in drag racing. However, his life has been based on more than his racing career.

Johnny Rocca was born December 4, 1941. Growing up in rural Virginia, Rocca decided he would succeed through education. After years of hard work in farming, Rocca attended and graduated from the University of Maryland with an Electrical Engineering degree. He spent years building a successful business as a Highway Contractor, specializing in traffic signals in and around Washington, D.C. Rocca not only recognizes, but emphasizes the importance of success through education. Through his 58 years of learning, the most important aspect of his life has been his family.

Johnny has been married to Barbara for over 30 years. The two have raised a daughter, Jessica, and a son, Seth. The Leesburg, VA family spends as much time together as possible, including family outings to watch drag racing dreams in action. The Ironhorse team would probably not exist today were it not for the love and support of Johnny's family. Blood is thicker than water and Johnny Rocca has looked most of his life for the place in his life where his heritage as a Tuscorara Tribe member guided him in the right direction.

The Ironhorse legend will be long-lived. But the family relations and Rocca's dedication to his Native American Heritage and his family will live longer. He only hopes that he serves as a messenger of his tribe and of the lessons he learned through his hard work. The time Johnny Rocca spent with his Grandfather learning of his heritage and with his tribe learning their way of life, have produced a true American Hero..