Early Life and Racing Beginnings
Born on August 26, 1925, in Phoenix, Arizona, Bobby Ball’s journey into the world of racing was as compelling as it was challenging. His early life was marked by his parents’ divorce when he was just a year old, leading to his upbringing by his grandmother. Despite being enrolled in a military academy during his teenage years to divert his attention from cars and motorcycles, Ball’s passion for racing was undeterred. He began his racing career with the Arizona Roadster Association, quickly making a name for himself. His talent shone through as he transitioned from roadsters to midgets, clinching the Arizona State Midget Association championship in both 1949 and 1950.
Rise to Prominence and Tragic Accident
Bobby Ball’s racing career was a blend of remarkable achievements and heart-wrenching setbacks. He made a significant impact in the Champ Car circuit, participating in 17 races over three years. His best finish was an impressive 8th in 1952. Ball’s prowess was particularly evident in the 1951 Indianapolis 500, where he finished fifth, and he also claimed victory at the AAA Championship race in San Jose in November 1952. However, his career and life took a tragic turn on January 4, 1953, when he suffered severe head injuries in an accident at Carrell Speedway in Los Angeles. This incident left him in a coma, first at the UCLA Medical Center and then at his home in Phoenix, but he tragically passed away 14 months later due to an infection.
Legacy and Memorial
The legacy of Bobby Ball in the world of racing extends far beyond his lifetime. In his honour, the Bobby Ball Memorial race was established, initially held at the Arizona State Fairgrounds and later at the Phoenix International Raceway. This memorial race, first run in the fall of 1954 and 1955, continued for many years, evolving in format but always serving as a tribute to Ball’s memory and his contributions to motor racing. The event not only commemorated Ball’s life and career but also became a significant fixture in the racing calendar, attracting top drivers and racing enthusiasts alike, thereby ensuring that Bobby Ball’s name and spirit lived on in the racing community.
Career Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Champ Car Career | 17 races run over 3 years |
| Years Active | 1950–1952 |
| Best Finish | 8th – 1952 |
| First Race | 1950 Phoenix 100 (ASF) |
| Last Race | 1952 Phoenix 100 (ASF) |
| First Win | 1952 San Jose 100 (San Jose) |
| Wins/Podiums/Poles | 1/4/1 |
| Formula One World Championship Career | Active years: 1951–1952 |
| Teams | Schroeder, Stevens |
| Entries | 2 |
| Championships | 0 |
| Wins | 0 |
| Podiums | 0 |
| Career Points | 2 |
| Pole Positions | 0 |
| Fastest Laps | 0 |
| First Entry | 1951 Indianapolis 500 |
| Last Entry | 1952 Indianapolis 500 |