Professional High-Speed Driving: An Inside Look and My Experiences
Professional High-Speed Driving: An Inside Look and My Experiences
Introduction
Have you ever wondered if there are any recordings of professional drivers in high-speed chases? The answer is not many, although the experience of chasing and being chased by skilled professional drivers is quite memorable. In this article, I will share my personal experience and insights into professional high-speed driving, providing an inside look into what it's like to be part of this intense training. I will also discuss the skills and preparation of both the drivers and the instructors.
The High-Speed Driving School Experience
Several times, I had the unique opportunity to attend high-speed driving school with the Los Angeles Sheriff's County Department. They run a comprehensive training program in the massive parking lot of the fairgrounds in Pomona. On the final day of the class, participants have a thrilling experience: chasing and being chased by the instructors. The cars involved are identical, giving the participants a chance to choose who they want to follow or who they want to chase.
A Memorable Experience
This experience was extremely humbling and enjoyable. The instructors would come back over the radio with playful comments like, "Should I stop for a doughnut and wait for you?" When running from them, it felt like a steel bar was welded to your back bumper and their front bumper, making it nearly impossible to outrun them. In some sense, an average cop could never be a match for a highly trained professional driver, as these instructors were not just regular cops but experts in high-speed driving techniques.
The Skills and Training
The idea behind this training was to ensure that officers did not go back to patrol considering themselves superdrivers. Despite this, most police officers are comparatively better drivers, especially at high speeds and when experiencing skids, than the average driver. High-speed driving is a combination of skill, control, and mental fortitude. It requires a deep understanding of how cars perform at high speeds, as well as the ability to maintain control in various challenging scenarios.
The Thrill of Speed
One of the compelling aspects of high-speed driving is the sheer thrill it provides. There's a certain excitement in pushing a car past 120 miles per hour, similar to the thrills of sex. This experience can be addictive, making drivers want to continue pushing their limits. However, it's essential to understand and respect the risks involved, as high-speed driving can be extremely dangerous if not handled with the utmost care.
Conclusion
Experiencing professional high-speed driving firsthand provided me with a unique perspective on the skills and dedication required to become a proficient driver in high-stress situations. While these experiences are rare, the training offered by organizations like the Los Angeles Sheriff's County Department plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety. Whether you're a cop or a car enthusiast, understanding the intricacies and risks of high-speed driving can be valuable knowledge.