Bob Wente

28/5/1933 - 13/8/2000

Record updated 13-Aug-06

USAC National Midget champion in 1963, raced at Indy in 1964 finishing 9th in a race marred by the deaths of Eddie Sachs and Dave McDonald.

Bob Wente was born in St. Louis, Missouri and was the USAC National Midget champion in 1963. By virtue of that, Wente earned a ride in the 1964 Indianapolis 500. Despite witnessing the tragic events in front of him on the opening lap that claimed the lives of Eddie Sachs and Dave McDonald, Wente charged from his 32nd starting spot to take ninth place at the checkered flag in his number 68, Trevis/Offenhauser.

Wente attempted to qualify the next two seasons in 1965 and 1966, but failed to make the field.

Wente remained in the racing business long after his driving career ended. He stayed busy by owning and operating a dirt track in Granite City, Illinois up until his death on August 13, 2000.