Mexico’s Formula 1 Star
I have always admired young athletes who from a young age decide to pursue a dream. Jorge Cevallos, age 19, is a great example, becoming the best racecar driver from Tijuana and representing Mexico internationally. He was recently selected by Federation Internationale de L’Automobile (FIA) to represent Mexico in the 2013 edition of the prestigious Young Pilots Academy of Excellence.
Cevallos, who now lives in San Diego is enjoying some time off from competing having recently won third place in the Protyre Formula Renault Championship. I was privileged to have the opportunity to speak with him about his accomplishments, his training and his future plans.
What ignited your passion for race car driving?
It all started when I was a kid and my dad raced in the Baja 1000 in the 90’s. Slowly, I began to follow the sport. Then when I turned 13, my dad bought me my first go-kart, and from that day on, my life changed.
What sacrifices have you made to get to where you are?
Just like any athlete, I do not live a normal life. I had to leave my family and friends to compete in Europe and race in different cities to make my dream come true. A lot of people consider this to be a huge sacrifice, and although it is, the happiness that I feel when I win championships makes it all worth it.
You just placed third in Formula Renault UK, what does this mean to you?
This is very important, as England is the most important country for motor sport; all young pilots that aspire being a great race car driver go to England to compete against the best drivers in the world and try to excel to become part of Formula 1. It is only my second season in this competition and I was able to finish the championship among the top 3.
Describe to us your training program.
It is physically, as well as mentally, a very demanding sport. To be the best, you have to be better prepared than the rest. I have two training sessions; one is resistance training and the second, cardiovascular endurance training. When my body is fatigued, we work on the mental part. This is very important because this sport requires for the driver to be extremely precise and the margin for error is very small. The mental aspect is very important; it is a sport where a small error can have very serious consequences. I can’t lose focus for one second.
What is your diet like?
Diet is very important because it helps to maintain right level of energy during the weekend races. I don’t follow a strict diet, but it is something that I take very serious. I follow a low fat diet, with moderate amounts of carbohydrate and some protein.
What do you indulge in when you are allowed to eat whatever you want?
Tacos. The best tacos in the world are in Tijuana!
What do you like to do in your time off?
I like to spend time with friends and family. I love the beach, water skiing and fishing. To relax, I like to go to the beach.
What is next for you?
I am presenting my new international project to companies so I can analyze my options for 2014. My next step is to go one step up in an international category; my results as well as my level are good enough for me to do this.
How do you see yourself in ten years?
I see myself with a stable career and being successful in Formula 1. I see myself as a World Champion. I know that with a lot of effort, we will be able to accomplish this.
