Remembering Ely Reeves Callaway III: A Legend in the Automotive World

The motoring world is in mourning today as Callaway Cars, the renowned tuning company, announced the passing of its founder, Ely Reeves Callaway III. At the age of 76, Callaway succumbed to injuries sustained after a fall at his Newport Beach, California home. His death marks the end of an era for the automotive industry.

Ely Reeves Callaway III, the first son of Ely Reeves Callaway Jr., founder of Callaway Golf, was a major figure in the automotive world. In 1977, he decided to forge his own path and started tuning vehicles from his garage in Old Lyme, Connecticut. It was here that he achieved his first success with a turbo kit for BMWs, which received favorable reviews from publications like Car and Driver. This early triumph led him to establish his own professional tuning business in Connecticut.

Although Callaway Cars has worked with vehicles from various manufacturers, it is best known for its association with Chevrolet Corvette. One of its most iconic creations was the legendary “Sledgehammer,” a twin-turbocharged Corvette that set a production-car top speed record of 254.76 mph (409.99 km/h) in 1989. This record remained unbroken until 2010 when the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport surpassed it.

Peter Reeves Callaway, Ely’s son, expressed his admiration for his father’s work, saying, “Dad’s passion for making beautifully designed and crafted machines can be seen in each and every project, and we remain devoted to executing to the highest standards, in true Callaway fashion.” He also fondly remembered his father’s sense of humor and charismatic leadership.

In addition to his achievements in the automotive industry, Ely Reeves Callaway III was an avid racer and helicopter pilot. He became a Formula Vee champion and went on to launch Callaway Competition in 1994, which found success in European GT racing and at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Callaway’s passion for innovation extended beyond the automotive sector. He also worked in the aerospace industry through Callaway Carbon, Inc. and his board seat on the Kaman Corporation. In recent years, he was involved in the development of a blended-wing, hydrogen-powered aircraft that received funding from NASA and the U.S. Air Force.

Mike Zoner, Callaway Cars’ chief operating officer, emphasized Callaway’s unwavering support for customers, partners, and team members. He stated, “We shall carry his vision and mission forward and continue to grow the company he founded and built into innovative future products that he would applaud as we honor his legacy.”

Ely Reeves Callaway III is survived by four children and two grandchildren, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both the automotive and aerospace industries.

The loss of Ely Reeves Callaway III is deeply felt by the motoring world. His contributions to the automotive industry, particularly his association with Chevrolet Corvette, will forever be remembered. As the founder of Callaway Cars, he leaves behind a company dedicated to upholding his vision and mission. His passion for innovation and commitment to excellence will continue to inspire future generations of automotive enthusiasts.