Bob Akin, American race car driver and journalist (b. 1936)

Robert Macomber Akin, III, affectionately known as "Bob," was a distinguished American figure whose life journey (March 6, 1936 – April 29, 2002) spanned the competitive world of motorsports, astute business leadership, insightful journalism, and engaging television commentary. A true Renaissance man of his era, Akin carved out a formidable reputation as a champion sports car racing driver while simultaneously contributing significantly to the automotive industry and media landscape.

A Prolific Career: From Business to Broadcast

Bob Akin's diverse career paths were often interconnected, each facet enriching the others. Born into a family with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, he naturally gravitated towards business, where his acumen quickly became apparent. Yet, it was the roar of engines and the thrill of competition that truly captured his passion, leading him to an illustrious career in sports car racing.

Business Leadership and Automotive Prowess

As a prominent business executive, Akin notably headed Akin Distributors, an enterprise that played a crucial role in importing various foreign cars, including Porsches, into the American market. This position provided him with an intimate understanding of high-performance vehicles, which undoubtedly fueled his racing ambitions and gave him unique insights into the automotive industry. His business background also meant he approached racing not just as a driver, but often as a team owner and manager, understanding the complex logistics and financial demands involved.

Champion Sports Car Racing Driver

It was on the race track that Bob Akin achieved some of his most celebrated triumphs. A dedicated and highly skilled competitor, he became a champion sports car racing driver, particularly known for his prowess in endurance events. Akin frequently campaigned powerful Porsche 935s and later the iconic Porsche 962s as a privateer, often battling against factory-backed teams. His career highlights include:

• IMSA GT Championship Success: Akin was a consistent front-runner in the fiercely competitive IMSA Camel GT Championship, showcasing remarkable talent and perseverance.
• Endurance Racing Prowess: He achieved notable results in prestigious endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring, often sharing the cockpit with legends like Hans Stuck, Hurley Haywood, and Jo Gartner. These events demand not only speed but also strategic thinking, mechanical sympathy, and teamwork, qualities Akin possessed in abundance.
• Privateer Excellence: Akin exemplified the spirit of the privateer, demonstrating that with determination and a keen understanding of racing, non-factory teams could achieve considerable success, inspiring many aspiring racers.

Voice of Motorsports: Journalist and Commentator

Beyond the driver's seat, Bob Akin shared his extensive knowledge and passion for motorsports through his words and voice. He was a respected journalist, contributing insightful articles to esteemed publications like Road & Track and Sports Car International. His writing offered readers a rare glimpse into the world of professional racing from a participant's perspective, combining technical understanding with the thrill of the sport. Furthermore, Akin transitioned seamlessly into television commentary, lending his authoritative voice and expert analysis to race broadcasts, particularly on channels like Speedvision (later Speed Channel). His commentary was highly regarded for its clarity, impartiality, and deep understanding of race strategy and vehicle dynamics, making complex racing scenarios accessible to a broad audience.

Legacy and Impact

Bob Akin's passing in 2002 marked the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to the automotive world. His multifaceted career left an indelible mark, demonstrating that one could excel in diverse fields driven by passion and intellect. He is remembered not only for his triumphs on the track but also for his contributions to the business of motoring and his ability to communicate the intricacies and excitement of sports car racing to a wider audience. Akin's legacy continues to resonate within the racing community, particularly among privateers who aspire to achieve greatness against formidable odds, much like he did.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bob Akin

Who was Robert Macomber "Bob" Akin, III?

Bob Akin was a prominent American figure known for his successful careers as a business executive, an insightful journalist, a respected television commentator, and a champion sports car racing driver. He was active from the mid-20th century until his passing in 2002.

What were Bob Akin's most significant achievements in motorsports?

Akin was a highly respected privateer who achieved considerable success in the IMSA GT Championship, driving Porsches. He competed in major endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring, often securing strong finishes against factory teams. He was known for his skilled driving and strategic approach to racing.

What was Bob Akin's connection to the automotive industry beyond racing?

Beyond his racing career, Bob Akin served as a business executive, notably heading Akin Distributors, which was involved in importing various foreign automobiles, including Porsches, into the United States. This background gave him a unique perspective on both the business and performance aspects of the automotive world.

Did Bob Akin contribute to motorsports journalism or commentary?

Yes, extensively. Bob Akin was a respected journalist who wrote for publications like Road & Track and Sports Car International, sharing his insider's view of racing. He also worked as a television commentator, providing expert analysis for race broadcasts, particularly for endurance events on channels such as Speedvision.

When did Bob Akin live?

Robert Macomber "Bob" Akin, III, was born on March 6, 1936, and passed away on April 29, 2002.