Robbie Pierce, American off-road racing driver, Died at 63

Robert Pierce: A Visionary in Off-Road Racing and Business

Robert Pierce (April 29, 1959 – January 3, 2023) stood as an influential figure in the American off-road racing scene and the business domain. Renowned as the owner of Jimco Racing and a former proprietor of MasterCraft Safety and Impact Products, Pierce's impact transcended the boundaries of the racetrack.

Early Years and Childhood

The tale of Robert Pierce commenced amidst the captivating mountains of Southern California, where he spent his early years. At a mere 5 years old, his remarkable talent for hockey captured attention, with professional teams scouting him during his high school years. However, a shift to Glenns Ferry, Idaho, redirected his path, nurturing a profound interest in metal fabrication and machinery, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Later on, fate guided him back to his Californian roots due to familial ties and a love for warm weather.

Ventures in the Business World

Drawing from his expertise in metal fabrication and machinery acquired during his Idaho stint, Pierce initiated his welding venture, embarking on diverse projects, including aerospace undertakings. A significant moment arrived in 1985 when he started collaborating with MasterCraft, crafting the company's tubular seat frames. In a pivotal move in 1999, Pierce acquired MasterCraft from Peri Miller, daughter of the founder, Jack Miller, thus initiating his exceptional ownership journey.

Pierce's business foresight spurred further growth. In 2008, he orchestrated the merger of Ryan Safety with MasterCraft Safety, broadening their product range. The acquisitions of Impact Products from Bill Simpson in 2010 showcased his diversification strategy, culminating in the eventual sale of Impact and MasterCraft to the renowned Italian safety conglomerate, Sparco, in June 2017.

Trailblazing in Off-Road Racing

While Robert Pierce's contributions to the business world were substantial, his passion for off-road racing was equally profound. The off-road racing chapter began in 2004, co-driving Tom Ridings' Class 10 car at the Tecate SCORE Baja 500. This experience ignited a lasting love for the sport.

Transcending into the Trophy Truck class, the pinnacle of off-road racing, he showcased remarkable skills, notably racing the "Prophy" Truck. His accomplishments included a second-place finish at the Terrible's SCORE Primm 300 in 2010 and securing significant rankings in SCORE Trophy Truck season points.

Legacy and Passing

Robert Pierce's legacy extends beyond the racetrack, leaving an indelible mark on the business world and the off-road racing community. Tragically, on January 3, 2023, during a scuba diving expedition in Bonaire, he passed away at the age of 63. His contributions continue to resonate, honoring his legacy for generations, a beacon of inspiration in both the business and off-road racing realms.