Pasadena to honor Latino boxing coach

The Pasadena City Council on Monday evening unanimously approved a proposal to honor Canto Robledo, a blind Latino boxer who mentored many Pasadena youth. The plaque will be one of the first monuments to a Latino in Pasadena.

"We won by knockout," said Joe Robledo, Canto's son.

A bronze plaque featuring Canto mentoring Joe and his brother Bobby will be installed at the Villa Park Community Center in about three weeks.
 
But Joe Robledo and the Pasadena Mexican American History Assn. don't want to stop there. Plans are in the works to install another memorial at El Centro de Acion, in Central Park in Pasadena, and to devote museum space to Canto.
 
"It's not just a Hispanic thing," Joe Robledo said. "It's a monument that traces through all races, colors and barriers."

-- Nicole Santa Cruz

Comments

[Frank Cardone]

My congratulations to Canto Robledo for his unselfish and important work with young people.

I wonder if you might know anything about Frankie Muche, who for many years trained fighters at the old Pasadena YMCA. Frankie,a former ranked lightweight,who fought 200 professional fights was dedicated to helping young people and trained Ernie and Danny Lopez at the Pasadena "Y" early in their careers. I was a regular,sparring and teaching fundamentals to beginners every thursday night for years. Can you tell me if Frankie is still alive and if s0, where he can be contacted.

Many Thanks,

Frank "Sonny" Cardone

[Erica Robledo]

Hi everyone, thank you for taking a few moments to read this article in the LA Times today. The Pasadena Mexican-American History Association, along with my mother and father, Joe and Josie Robledo have been working very hard on this Memorial Project for my grandfather during the past 3 years. The Canto Robledo Memorial Project has been blessed with support from many friends, family and community members and we could not have achieved this special honor for Canto Robledo without everyone's support and dedication. The Robledo Family and Pasadena Mexican American History Association are continuing the pursuit to recognize and honor those who have been able to overcome barriers and obstacles by hosting more fundraisers and social events for the community. If you would like more information on this historic moment for Latinos and the Canto Robledo Memorial Project, please contact Joe Robledo directly at tntrob50@aol.com.
Also, the bronze plaque that was designed and sculpted by Steve Harspt will be ready for display at Villa Park Community Center in about 3 weeks, hope to see you there. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Erica Robledo

God Bless you Granpa Canto! Miss and love you, with love from the Grandkids and Robledo Family!

[Phillip Poncé]

I am very proud to know that my great uncle touched the lives of so many...I was facinated with him as a boy and bid congratulations to Joe and Josie Robeldo to finally seeing results to thier undying efforts. Much love!