The Leslie Lovett Memorial Photo Contest was conceived by Goodguys Publicity Manager John Drummond in 1996 as a fitting tribute to the energetic and innovative drag racings lens man who served as photo editor of National DRAGSTER from 1968 until his death in 1996. Lovett was universally recognized as the dean of drag racing photographers.

“By holding this annual photo contest, we hope to celebrate Leslie’s life by bringing together drag racing photographers of all skill levels,” said contest coordinator Dave Wallace Jr., former Hot Rod Magazine Feature Editor and long time contributor to hot rod and racing magazines world-wide. The contest is open to photos that are at least 25 years old meaning all of the images for the 2015 competition were taken pre-1991. Specially designed trophies created by the NHRA Wally Parks Museum were presented at the conclusion of judging during the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion.

In one of the closest competitions in the 24-year history of the award, we have a winner! Just a SINGLE vote separated first from second, and second place from third!  Interestingly enough, the winner, Roy Robinson was a track photographer for the legendary Lions Drag Strip near Long Beach, California. His win in this prestigious contest marks the first time in many decades that Robinson’s amazing work will receive proper recognition.

Next year will mark the 25^th anniversary of the original Hot Rod Reunion. For those interested in contributing for consideration in next year’s contest, the competition begins again in August 2016. For more information contact Dave Wallace at [email protected].