Raised by the “Studebaker Speed King” Tony Gulotta, It was no surprise that Donald Gulotta would inherit his father’s love for speed. Don grew up in Los Angeles, California with a love for airplanes. During the 1940s, he was competing in model airplane competitions and won numerous awards, a kind of skill and talent that would soon follow him throughout the course of his life. When he was fresh out of school, Don served in the military as an air force pilot in the Korean war. After the war, he dedicated most of his life to working as a commercial pilot for American Airlines, a loyal pilot for over 50 years. Don Gulotta was known for his precise flying expertise, having won many awards in the subject. Don was among one of the captains of Condor Squadron, whose colors and Condor Call Sign had been painted on his 1972 Citabria.
Condor Squadron’s colors as they were in 1969
Don Gulotta’s Citabria as it is today
Don was also a well-respected member of the Quiet Birdmen Association, a secretive club open only to those among the most elite aviators. But most of all, Don was known for his kindness, dependability, and loyalty, serving as an unforgettable friend to many at the Camarillo Airport. Don Gulotta, a humble and talented man, retired in his Camarillo home with his family and passed away in 2005.
Anthony “Tony” Gulotta, a talented race car driver, found fame and fortune in his racing career, one of the most dangerous and mentally demanding careers known to man. With his precise skills and calm manor, Tony raced in the Indianapolis 500 for 14 years, from 1926 until the start of World War II in 1939. In 1931 he led in 1st place for a few laps before he skidded in oil and crashed, ultimately putting him out of the race. Tony, the humble and unassuming man he was, never blamed others for complications that occurred in his races. In fact, his great sportsmanship proved to be heroic, as he had numerous times sacrificed his own position in the race to aid his teammates in life-saving situations. “To Gulotta, it was just a part of the day’s work. No time to think it over.” says a 1973 magazine “The Antique Studebaker Review”. Tony’s calm, selfless, and humble nature would not only serve him in racing, but also aid him in the task of being a wonderful father to his family. Instead of using the fortune he gained from his racing career for himself, he dedicated it to raising his family and building valuable opportunities for future generations. Tony Gulotta passed away in 1981, and even after his death, he still remains a great influence on his family today.
Tony Gulotta shaking hands with Edsel Ford, to the right are Henry Ford & Captain Eddie Rickenbacker
Click to enlarge the image
