Jose Calderone Gallegos impact on Team Mexico is unmatched. He had supported and fostered the local pylon racing community by any means he could starting in the mid 1980's. All with the hope and dream of making Team Mexico a destination for racing and building up the pilots to compete at the same level as the rest of the world. Jose purchased a Judgeman system for Mexico to help with training and race operation. This would allow Team Mexico to understand pylon racing, with the goal to be competitive in the U.S. In 2000, Jose pushed for and supported pilots to compete in Phoenix, at one of the largest Q40 contests in the world. This is where the adventure began formally. From this day forward until his passing, Jose made sure Team Mexico attended not only the Phoenix race but other races as well.

He led the team of pilots by purchasing the best equipment for events in Mexico as well as equipment for the pilots. This allowed all the pilots to become better pylon racers. His leadership and unselfish support of Team Mexico is unmatched. We were fortunate to benefit from his kindness and love for Mexico and pylon racing. Team Mexico has proven to be very competitive, and we often travel across the U.S. and the world to compete against the best. None of this would be possible without the support of Pepe (Jose). Sadly, we lost Pepe, before he could see how all of his hard work had paid off. I know how proud he would be to see the pilots of Mexico flying fast and winning some of the biggest races. He made us stronger and more competitive. His encouraging words still echo within all of us, he always said "We can make it" and "You can do it".

I am grateful and honored to be part of his legacy. I was his teammate and right arm always. I am blessed to be part of his project to improve pylon racing. It's an honor to always say, "Thank you, Pepe for all the support, the advice and especially for you". His friendship to many was unwavering, and today I follow his example, I support all those who ask for help. It is a legacy that we honor and Pepe always lives in our minds and hearts. Pepe was the heart and soul of pylon racing in Mexico. Without him I am sure Mexico would not be as successful as we are.

Thank you my friend,

Salvador Barrios

Jose Calderone With His Q40 Racer

Jose Calderone With Team Mexico Pilots