The world of chuckwagon racing is mourning the loss of one of its greatest ambassadors. Tom Glass, a legendary driver, respected commentator, and pioneer of the modern chuckwagon sport, died on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the age of 77 after suffering a stroke. His passing was confirmed by the World Professional Chuckwagon Association (WPCA), which described him as one of the most influential figures in the history of the sport.
For decades, Glass represented excellence both on and off the track. Whether competing for championships, mentoring young drivers, or sharing his expertise as a television analyst, he helped introduce generations of fans to the excitement and tradition of chuckwagon racing.
A Champion Who Defined an Era
Tom Glass built a remarkable racing career that stretched across several decades. As a third-generation chuckwagon competitor, he carried forward a family tradition while creating a legacy that few athletes in the sport have matched.
During the 1980s and 1990s, Glass established himself as one of the dominant drivers in Western Canada. He captured four Calgary Stampede Rangeland Derby championships as a driver and added two more titles as an outrider earlier in his career. He also earned three World Champion Chuckwagon Driver championships, achievements that placed him among the elite names in the sport’s history.
His consistency, competitive spirit, and deep understanding of racing made him one of the most respected figures on the circuit.
The Famous Checkerboard Wagon
One of Tom Glass’s most recognizable trademarks was his checkerboard-patterned chuckwagon. Fans quickly associated the unique design with speed, precision, and championship performances.
Year after year, the distinctive wagon became one of the most recognizable sights during the Calgary Stampede and other major racing events. For many longtime spectators, seeing the checkerboard wagon arrive at the starting line meant they were about to witness one of the sport’s finest competitors in action.
The image remains closely connected to Glass’s remarkable career and continues to symbolize excellence in chuckwagon racing.
Helping Shape Modern Chuckwagon Racing
Glass made contributions that extended well beyond winning races. He played a key role in helping establish the World Professional Chuckwagon Association, an organization that transformed the sport by improving professionalism, competition standards, and governance.
His leadership helped create stronger opportunities for drivers while promoting safety and preserving the traditions that make chuckwagon racing a unique part of Western Canadian culture.
Fellow competitors often credited Glass for balancing respect for the sport’s history with a vision for its future.
A Trusted Voice in the Broadcast Booth
After retiring from competitive racing in 1998, Tom Glass remained closely connected to the sport through television.
For approximately 15 years, he served as a colour commentator for Calgary Stampede Rangeland Derby broadcasts. His firsthand experience allowed him to explain racing strategies, wagon handling, horse performance, and split-second decisions in ways that both longtime fans and newcomers could appreciate.
His calm, knowledgeable style made him one of the most respected broadcasters covering rodeo and chuckwagon racing. Even after leaving the driver’s seat, he continued educating audiences and promoting the sport he loved.
Career Beyond the Rodeo Arena
Many people knew Tom Glass as a racing champion, but his career extended into the entertainment industry as well.
He worked as an actor, stunt performer, and stunt coordinator on several major film productions. His stunt work appeared in well-known Hollywood movies, including Legends of the Fall, Maverick, and Beverly Hills Cop. His skills with horses and action sequences made him a valuable contributor behind the scenes in film production.
His success in both sports and entertainment reflected his versatility and willingness to embrace new challenges while remaining connected to his Western roots.
Honors That Reflected His Impact
Throughout his lifetime, Glass received numerous awards recognizing his contributions to sport and film.
He was inducted into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, celebrating his accomplishments as one of Canada’s greatest chuckwagon racers. He also earned a place in the Canadian Stunts Hall of Fame, acknowledging his outstanding work in the motion picture industry.
These honors reflected the broad impact of a career that reached far beyond competition and inspired people across multiple professions.
A Legacy Carried Forward
Tom Glass’s influence continues through his family, particularly his son, Jason Glass, who has become a multiple-time world champion chuckwagon driver.
The Glass family remains one of the most respected names in the sport, with multiple generations contributing to its growth and popularity. Tom took great pride in seeing the next generation continue the traditions he had helped strengthen throughout his career.
His mentorship also benefited many young drivers who entered the sport over the years, ensuring that his knowledge and experience would continue shaping future champions.
Remembering a Western Canadian Icon
The death of Tom Glass marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Canadian chuckwagon racing. His accomplishments on the track, leadership within the sport, memorable broadcasting career, and work in the film industry created a legacy that few athletes can equal.
Fans will remember his fearless driving, signature checkerboard wagon, and passion for preserving one of Western Canada’s most celebrated sporting traditions. Colleagues will remember a competitor who demanded excellence while generously sharing his knowledge with others.
As tributes continue from across the rodeo and racing communities, Tom Glass will be remembered not only as a champion but as one of the defining figures who helped shape modern chuckwagon racing. His contributions will continue to influence the sport for generations to come, ensuring that his name remains closely linked with one of Canada’s most enduring Western traditions.