Long-time head of the Magnesium Automotive Group, which produces magnesium parts for NASCAR and hot rod racing cars. Canavan, whose real name was Samuel, was born in Northern Ireland and lived there until 1951. The family moved to Amsterdam, New York and Canavan soon graduated and served in the US Army. He then worked at a service station and built a dragster in his spare time, before beginning to compete in National Hod Rod Association events. He then raced in sportscars before trying NASCAR, basing himself in North Carolina accordingly. He raced for nearly 15 years in various stock cars and was honoured by Darlington Raceway's Museum for his efforts.

Biography last updated 9 Dec 2016