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Friends and Family of Champ Hood get together for the re-dedication of the bench
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Bench Dedication for Champ Hood on his 50th Birthday
by Laura Rojo
On Friday, August 16, 2002, Champ Hood would have been 50 years old and many of his friends got together to celebrate the occasion. There was an informal re-dedication at Town Lake around 8 p.m. of a little bench almost across the old City Coliseum between the South First & Lamar bridges (Austin, Texas.)
Dedication of bench
Sitting on the bench, you have a great view of the lake, and get to see a fantastic sunset while having time to think about all the great music that must be heard in heaven. The bench is now known as Champ’s & Walter’s Bench, named after Champ Hood & Walter Hyatt founding members of Uncle Walt’s Band along with David Ball.
Warren Hood
Throughout the years, Champ played with Toni Price's band for nine years. He also played as a regular member of Threadgill's Troubadours and toured with both Lyle Lovett and Jimmie Dale Gilmore.
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To mark the spot of the bench there is a stone engraved on both sides. Walter’s side facing East, Champ’s side facing West. Flowers were around the stone, alongside a Shiner bottle. Candles were lighted once the sun started coming down, and people sang ‘Happy Birthday’ knowing that Champ was there in spirit & on the legacy he left to his friends & his son Warren who is a very talented fiddler (just as his dad.)
Champ's Stone
When asked about Champ’s favorite flowers, Elizabeth responded the Hobs & Barley were definitely on top of his list, and many in the crowd agreed with a laugh.
Toni Price at Champ's dedication
Champ will always be loved & remembered by friends, family & the many people he touch with his sense of humor & wonderful music. He will be missed by all who were lucky to know him.
If you are in Austin, visit Champ’s & Walter’s bench
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