Bob Hogle passed away October 2, 2020. Bob was the 1963 and 1968 CRA Sprint Car Champion. Bob had 68 CRA main event wins, 21 fast times and 38 trophy dash wins.
My connection to Hogle is somewhat unique. In 1993 I started my dream of finding long lost photos of the California Jalopy Association. I figured I'd find 1 or 2 old faded photos on a garage wall and that would be it. End of story. I got tremendous break when I contacted Hila Sweet by phone. Hila is a close friend of Hogle. So, I then called Hogle and gave him my story. Hogle didn't know me from anyone else who came from under a rock, but Hila said I was cool. Hogle allowed me to drive to his house in Phelan, CA. Upon arrival, we walked out to his garage and Hogle pulled down a foot locker from the rafters. Then Hogle left. Me alone in the guys garage. I started to sort through a incredible collection of jalopy photos. I was stunned to my toes. Simply unbelievable. The lost history I so desperately wanted. Now, the real tough part comes. "Mr Hogle, can I borrow these photos?"
"SURE". Send them back when your done", I must have departed with over 100 8 X 10 photos. The story gets better. Hogle knows 10 other former jalopy drivers. They had photos, and so on. All because of Mr. Bob "Lover Boy" Hogle". I owe so much to Bob. My dream of preserving the history of Southern California jalopy races was fulfilled because of Bob Hogle.
Thank you Bob for everything. Thanks for the memories.
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