Bob Wilkinson - PanAm 6 ESP
I was born and raised in El Paso; with a few exceptions I have lived here all of my life. I currently live in Chaparral, New Mexico with my wife. We have three great daughters, six and a half grandchildren and 2 dogs. My sister and I own Southwest Gear on Dyer Street. We sell parts for standard transmissions, transfer cases, and differentials. The shop also rebuilds standard and automatic transmissions, transfer cases, and differentials on both foreign and domestic vehicles. Check us out on the internet at www.southwestgear.com.
I started racing when I was about 12. My Dad bought a go-Karts and my life sentence of racing commenced. I have been involved in many types of racing, to include: motocross, go karts, dirt and asphalt oval track, road racing (GT1), drag racing (most experience), and autocross. I can't think of anything I enjoy more than racing, any kind of racing.
1. How long have you been a member of SCCA?
Although I have been with SCCA in the past, I have currently been involved this time for three years.
2. What was your first car?
The first car that I got to drive, on the street, with a license was my Mom's 1962 Dodge 880 (whoa is he old or what? check out the year!).
3. What was/is your favorite car?
My favorite car depends on what I want one to do at the time. However, my top two preferences are that it is paid for and scary fast.
4. What is your favorite racing memory?
I have no favorite racing memory. I like all of them. I prefer the ones where I won (even though they may be fictitious.)
5. Who is the racer you admire or respect the most?
It would be hard for me to say what drivers I admire and respect the most. My sister would have to rank in the top ten, but she would be accompanied by Dale Earnhardt, John Force. On the local level, I would again have to mention my sister, and all of those who work and race with me. To try to name them all would be too include a roster of our local SCCA chapter and Nanci, my sister. Competitively I would say Kevin Bartley and Don Walker just because our times are so close.
6. How do you rank the following: Driver, Car, Car Preparation?
In my opinion, the Driver and the car prep are equal. You're only as good as your equipment.
7. What makes you successful?
My family is what makes me successful (especially, my sister).
Written by: Bob Wilkinson Edited and submitted by: Nanci
