Brock Yates American journalist and author Country: USA

Broc Yates: A Biography

Broc Yates is an American journalist and author who is best known as the executive editor of the automotive magazine 'Car and Driver'. Born and raised in Lockport, New York, Yates began his career as a reporter for CBS, covering events in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series in the 1980s, including the iconic 'Daytona 500' race.

Yates also served as one of the main commentators on the television program 'American Sports Cavalcade', which focused on all things related to auto racing. Currently, he provides commentary on modern and vintage car competitions on the cable channel 'Speed Channel'.

In addition to his work as a journalist, Yates is also a bestselling author, with a significant portion of his books dedicated to motorsports and the automotive industry as a whole. His articles and notes in 'Car and Driver' and other publications have had a significant impact not only within the automotive industry but also on the general public.

One of Yates' notable contributions was his criticism of the automotive industry's management methods and product quality in 1968. His articles served as a catalyst for discussions on the industry's arrogance, loss of connection with its markets, and failure to respond to societal needs, technological advancements, energy, and the environment.

Yates attended Hobart College after graduating from high school in 1951. He also served in the United States Navy. Throughout his career, Yates has focused on management styles within American car companies and their impact on the industry.

Yates' first articles were published in 'Science and Mechanics Magazine' when he was just 16 years old. Inspired by the life of motorcycle and race car driver Erwin G. Baker, known as 'Cannonball Baker', Yates organized the 'Cannonball Baker Sea-To-Shining-Sea Memorial Trophy Dash' after Baker's death. This cross-country race served as a protest against perceived loss of personal freedom in America, particularly speed limits. Yates and Dan Gurney won the first official 'Cannonball' race, completing the journey from New York to Los Angeles in a record-breaking 35 hours and 53 minutes.

Between 1971 and 1979, five more 'Cannonball' races took place, but Yates did not become a champion again. The 'Cannonball' race continued in the form of the 'Tire Rack One Lap of America' under the patronage of 'Grassroots Motorsport' magazine. Today, Yates' son, Brock Yates Jr., is responsible for organizing and running the race. In 2013, 'Cannonball' celebrated its 30th anniversary.

Yates also had a foray into the film industry, co-writing the screenplay for the comedy crime action film 'Smokey and the Bandit II' in 1980 with his friend, director, and stuntman Hal Needham. He also wrote the screenplay for the comedy 'The Cannonball Run' in 1981, initially intended to be starring Steve McQueen. However, McQueen was diagnosed with cancer in early 1980, and the role was played by Burt Reynolds instead. Yates had a cameo role in 'The Cannonball Run' as the race organizer.

Pamela, Yates' wife, and his son Brock Yates Jr. have confirmed that he is currently battling Alzheimer's disease.