To race in Formula 1 is an aim for many aspiring racing drivers, regardless of their gender. Until very recently however, we have not seen many women battling in the junior formulas. The way was paved by Susie Wolff who was closest to fulfil this dream. Following her footsteps is Tatiana Calderón, a 23-year old Colombian driver, who moved to Europe after starting her career in the US and competes now in the GP3 Series.
You are involved in Susie Wolff’s “Dare to be different” project. What does it mean to you?
I think Dare to be different is a great initiative and I´m glad to be part of the community, I think we should recognize Female talent and support each other. It’s amazing to see so many females get involved in all areas of Motorsport and hopefully D2BD will open the eyes for many more to join us.
How did you get into karting?
I was 9 years old when I first started. My sister Paula took me to a rental go kart track near home and since the first moment I loved the feeling and adrenaline. I fell in love with Motorsport!
Did your interest to motorsport come from within the family or did you develop it on your own?
My dad has always been a fan of engines and wheels but he never had the opportunity to race. My sister and I started to go to a rental kart track and our passion for the sport was constantly growing. Fortunately it was really easy to convince my dad. We learned to ride a bike when we were about 6 years old and always liked speed but I discovered karting when I was 9 years old and that’s when it all really started.
At one point you were racing in Star Mazda championship. Was the IndyCar or NASCAR career your goal at that time?
No, I have always dream of getting to F1. Of course IndyCar has crossed my mind but I´m not a big fan of ovals so that made my decision a bit easier, to follow my dreams and compete in Europe.
Do you miss Colombia or regret leaving American scene to move to Spain?
I don’t regret anything. I´m very happy with my life and the decisions I have made. I love racing so much that even though it was very tough to move away from my family and friends I´m happy here in Spain following my dreams. I have been incredibly lucky because I have an amazing family that has supports me in every step of the way. I wouldn’t be here without them.
Is there a distinguishable difference between American and European tracks? Do you have your favourites in both categories?
I think they both have amazing circuits that I really enjoy driving but in America they like ovals a bit more than circuits and I enjoy driving circuits much more. My favourite European circuit is Spa-Francorchamps and in the US Road America.
You have spent a few years in the European F3 driving for Maria de Villota’s father. Did you have a chance to meet her?
Yes I was fortunate to have met Maria, before and after her accident. I admire her determination and passion for this sport and will always remember her smile. She made her way up and showed that we’re capable to compete at a very high level. She will always be remembered!
You moved to GP3 this year thanks to your skills. How does this car differ from the previous in your career?
I really enjoy driving the GP3 car, it has more power than what I was used to and that always puts a big smile on my face. We use Pirelli tires which are very different to the ones used for the F3 and the driving style is completely different but I think I adapted to it very well and hopefully I will be able to show it very soon!
Women in motorsport are not always well-received and perceived. Did you ever experience such attitude towards you and?
Well it’s never easy to make your way up and get the chance to show you can compete the guys. You always get in front of people that don’t believe we can be successful but I don’t really care about what they think. I try to take those words and turn them into a motivation. At the end all what matters is that I believe we can do great things in Motorsport and I will prove it.
Is there anything in motorsport you are scared or afraid of?
No, I have never been afraid. I think I wouldn’t be doing it if I was scared. I simply enjoy driving the car every time I´m out on track.
You aim at Formula 1, as did Carmen Jorda who did not manage to get there. In your opinion, what did she do wrong?
I personally don’t know Carmen and have never raced against her. Susie Wolff proved that we are capable and she was the closest one in a long time. I think we are getting closer and closer to getting a real chance in F1 and hopefully soon we can see a female joining the grid.
What are your plans for this and future seasons?
I think I have develop a lot as a driver in the last couple of years, I´m still learning and this year I have made a step closer to F1. It’s going to be a challenging year and a new experience but I´m determined to prove that I can compete at a high level and hopefully get a chance in the future to go even further.
