Well said, as usual... Thank you Katie!
Debbie
----- Original Message -----
From: "Kelly, Katie" <kkelly@spss.com>
To: <ba-autox@autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, November 16, 2001 10:16 AM
Subject: PASSENGERS
> I think this topic is getting way out of hand. I don't see what the
> problem is. If a wife wants to ride with her husband, for example, to
> give him driving tips, why is this such a crime? Because he's really
> getting such an unfair advantage?
>
> What if that wife weighs 223 pounds? And they're in a new Mini?
>
> And just because a novice has an experienced driver riding with her, it
> doesn't necessarily mean that advice is any good. I can't tell you how
> many times I've ridden with novices, only to have them slow down, and
> politely say, "Yes, I see what you're saying, now get out."
>
> I personally DON'T like riding, even as an instructor, because I find
> the experience terrifying. I really can't believe how fast people drive.
> And besides my co-driver who graciously shares his car with me, I don't
> like having passengers, because they change the balance of the car.
>
> But you know, sometimes, it's such an ego boost, when someone comes up
> to you and asks for a ride, and then afterwards, they grin all wide-eyed
> and say, "Oh. I thought you were good." But anyway, that person, if he
> or she enjoyed it all, leaves with something positive.
>
> And regarding having a competitor who has a better instructor than you,
> and beats you, I've been in that situation. It made me mad at first, but
> then I realized her superior driving skills, natural or taught (who
> cares?), made ME a better driver. So, I'm all for people being the best
> that they can be.
>
> As far as "abusers" go, consider that with abuse comes dependence. The
> abuse weakens that person.
>
> I feel that autocrossing, and learning how to do it well, is a gift. In
> my opinion, autocrossers have just as much driving talent as world class
> professionals, but due to different situations, dreams, and backgrounds,
> we're stuck in this parking lot. But the beautiful thing is, just about
> every weekend, we're presented with an opportunity to share some pretty
> impressive skills. The next time you watch the news, think about the
> last time you enjoyed a four-wheel drift. And how special that
> four-wheel drift was, having a friend screaming in your ear, "OH MY
> GAWD!" That should put this all into perspective.
>
> Katie K.
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