Bob Cassata

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Bob Cassata is the founder of Bob’s Space Racers, Inc. (BSR), a renowned manufacturer of amusement games based in Holly Hill, Florida. Established in 1970, BSR is best known for creating the iconic Whac-A-Mole game, which has become a staple in arcades and amusement parks worldwide.

Bob Cassata

Founder, Bob’s Space Racers, Inc.

Year Inducted:

Early Life and Career

In the 1960s, while working as a carpenter, Cassata was introduced to the amusement industry when a coworker asked him to manage a game concession on the Daytona Beach boardwalk during the summer. This experience sparked his interest in the field, leading him to start his own game concessions business with his wife, Joyce. By 1967, Cassata was building his own games, including “Pitch-Till-You-Win” and a 3-Pin Bowling game, using a burnt-out mobile home frame in his garage.

Founding of Bob’s Space Racers

In 1968, Cassata collaborated with Jack Mendes to develop a new game concept: a trailer-mounted race game with a science fiction theme, inspired by the Apollo space missions. This game, where players competed by pressing handles to race spaceships up a vertical track, was named Bob’s Space Racer, which later became the company’s name. The first unit was sold in 1970, marking the official founding of Bob’s Space Racers, Inc.

Innovation and Growth

BSR quickly gained recognition for its innovative and durable games. In 1975, Cassata trademarked Whac-A-Mole, to go along with its most popular Water games.  Cassata and his team adapted and refined the Whac A Mole concept, leading to its widespread popularity in carnivals, amusement parks, and arcades.

Over the years, BSR expanded its product line to include various games such as Whopper Water, Water Blast, Stinky Feet, Duck Pond, Roll-a-Ball, and Dog Pounder. The company holds 22 patents and more than 50 trademarks, solidifying its position as a leader in the amusement game industry.

Legacy and Recognition

Cassata’s contributions to the amusement industry have been widely recognized. In November 2019, he was inducted into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Hall of Fame, acknowledging his impact on the field.

Today, Bob’s Space Racers remains a family-oriented business. The company continues to innovate and provide games and management services for arcades, parks, and trailer industries worldwide.

Legacy

Today, Bob’s Space Racers remains a family-oriented business. The company continues to innovate and provide games and management services for arcades, parks, and trailer industries worldwide.