RPW Founder & Leader, Bobby Chalmers honored with ‘Refuse to Lose 24’ Thursday Night
COLUMN BY: Laurie Fallis – WEST LEBANON, N.Y. – Thursday night at Lebanon Valley Speedway, the founder and leader of Race Pro Weekly was honored in unforgettable fashion with the Short Track Super Series “Refuse To Lose 24” for the Sportsman Division.
The special 24-lap feature paid tribute to Bobby Chalmers and the iconic #24 — the number carried by Bobby throughout his racing career and one deeply rooted in the Chalmers family, also proudly used by his father before him.
This incredible event was organized by , longtime photographer, close friend, and devoted member of the RPW family. Jann McGaffin and others apart of Race Pro Weekly worked tirelessly to make this race worthy of Bobby’s legacy, and their mentor would have been incredibly proud of the effort and heart they poured into the night. Bobby touched countless lives through his writing, photography, mentorship, and unwavering support of the racing community. Whether behind the lens or behind the keyboard, he performed at the highest level, always driven by passion and dedication to the sport he loved.
Through tremendous support from sponsors, teams, and fans — including major contributions from Racing Junk.Com, the Race Pro Weekly team raised over $8,000, all of which was given back to the drivers. Competitors received extra payout, lap bonuses, and added finishing position awards in their envelopes at the end of the night. It was a true racer-first tribute, exactly the kind of gesture Bobby himself would have appreciated.
A remarkable 29 cars signed in at “The Valley of Speed” to honor a man taken from us far too soon. From the drop of the green flag, fans watched Garrett Chillot pace the field early before multi-time Lebanon Valley champion methodically worked his way to the front. Hartman drove his #22 into the lead on lap 10 and never looked back, putting together a flawless performance to capture the victory in the special “Refuse To Lose 24” feature event.
Following the race, Hartman was presented with a beautiful trophy commemorating Bobby Chalmers and the incredible legacy he leaves behind. In victory lane, Hartman was joined by Bobby’s father, Robert Chalmers, creating a powerful and emotional moment for everyone in attendance.
Many members of the Race Pro Weekly family were on hand to celebrate the life and legacy of their leader. Bobby never sought the spotlight for the success of RPW, always giving credit to the dedicated staff around him. His talent, humility, gratitude, and commitment to the sport will never be forgotten.
The racing world lost a truly special person, but Bobby Chalmers’ legacy will continue to live on through every story written, every photo captured, and every lap turned in his memory.
Somewhere above, we know Bobby was watching proudly, probably going 120 MPH in heaven on this very special night. Thank you all for giving our hero one heck of a special night. Miss you Bobby Chalmers!
