Off-road racing pioneer Robbie Pierce died after enduring an accident while scuba diving. Pierce was 63 years old.
Pierce was inducted into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2018. His company, Jimco Racing announced his death in a statement on Tuesday evening.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our great leader, racer, builder, entrepreneur, and Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame Inductee, Robbie Pierce,” the statement said. “Robbie died in an accident while scuba diving, his second biggest passion in life.
“His dedication to the safety and advancement of off-road racing and motorsports will continue to save lives, and thrill racers and fans alike for years to come.
“What you do in life echoes in eternity. Drive fast, take chances. Race in peace.”
Pierce didn’t begin racing until he was in his ’40s, but was a longtime employee of MasterCraft Safety. He eventually bought the company, which produced various types of safety equipment. He later owned Impact Racing that was founded by Bill Simpson. He sold MasterCraft and Impact Racing to Sparco in 2017.
Since 2018 he has managed Jimco Racing, which builds Trophy Trucks and other equipment for off-road racing.
Pierce competed in numerous off-road racing events and signature races such as the Baja 1000 and the Dakar Rally.