Whac-A-Mole Moguls Move On: The Cassatas and Double C Acres
A vast equestrian estate that is tucked away in the foothills of North Carolina’s breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains has drawn interest from the equestrian community. However, the true mystery of “Double C Acres” is not found in its beautifully landscaped pastures or cutting edge amenities, but rather in the tale of its proprietors, Bob and Joyce Cassata, the modest couple who created the classic arcade game Whac-A-Mole.
Bob’s journey to becoming an equine enthusiast began decades earlier, far from the rolling hills of North Carolina. In the bustling amusement park scene of the 1960s, Bob, a natural tinkerer with an entrepreneurial spirit, found his calling. He established Bob’s Space Racers, a company synonymous with arcade entertainment. It was within these walls that lightning, in the form of inspiration, struck. Building upon a mechanical novelty toy, Bob and his wife Joyce, a constant source of support and ideas, conceptualized the game that would take the world by storm: Whac-A-Mole.
The sight of cartoon moles popping up from holes, taunting players with mischievous grins, became an instant classic. Arcades buzzed with the rhythmic bonk of mallets, and the addictive game cemented Bob’s Space Racers as a significant player in the industry. The success of Whac-A-Mole, however, was just the beginning. At the same time, Bob’s company continued to churn out amusement park favorites, and a different kind of passion simmering beneath the surface.
Horses had always held a special place in Joyce’s heart. Growing up, she dreamt of wide-open spaces and the companionship of these noble creatures. As their arcade business flourished, Bob, the supportive husband, decided to turn Joyce’s dream into reality. In 1990, they embarked on a quest to find the perfect equestrian haven. Their search led them to Morganton, North Carolina, a picturesque town with breathtaking mountain scenery.
Double C Acres, named after their initials, was love at first sight. The 211-acre estate offered everything they desired: rolling pastures, ample space for grazing, and a peaceful ambience. But for Bob and Joyce, it wasn’t just about the land but about building a haven for their growing equine family. They meticulously planned and constructed a world-class facility with spacious stalls, an indoor arena, and miles of riding trails that meandered through the property’s natural beauty.
Over the years, Double C Acres became a sanctuary for Bob and Joyce and their prized Arabian horses. The couple poured their hearts into breeding and training these majestic animals, achieving remarkable success in the show circuit. Trophies adorned the walls of their barn, each one a testament to their dedication and the exceptional qualities of their Arabians.
However, as it inevitably does, time began to take its toll. The couple, both in their eighties, found the demands of managing such a large estate increasingly tricky. With a heavy heart, they decided to sell Double C Acres. The news sent ripples through the equestrian community, with many potential buyers drawn not just by the exceptional facilities but also by the property’s unique history.
The listing for Double C Acres offered a glimpse into a life less ordinary. Beyond the meticulously maintained pastures and top-notch amenities, there was a sense of whimsy. The knowledge that the inventors of Whac-A-Mole had meticulously planned this equestrian paradise added a layer of charm that resonated with many.
While Bob and Joyce remain tight-lipped about their plans, rumor’s swirl of a smaller, more manageable property closer to their children. One thing is sure: their legacy extends far beyond the world of arcades. Double C Acres is a testament to their love for horses, unwavering support for one another, and ability to turn dreams, no matter how seemingly disparate, into reality.
The new chapter for Double C Acres still needs to be written. It may become a haven for another equestrian enthusiast, carrying on the tradition of excellence established by the Cassatas. One thing is for sure: the story of the Whac-A-Mole inventors and their dream farm will continue to be told for years to come, a reminder that sometimes, the most incredible adventures lie beyond the flashing lights and playful bonks of an arcade classic.