It was never a dream, like playing music on the radio. Even though I’ve always loved cars and had a few fast ones over the years, the BMW really got me interested in racing. Remember when I said, in Chapter 32, how exhilarating skiing was?  Racing is better. It’s the most fun you can have with your clothes on. Drive at 9/10s; you lose; drive at 11/10s, and you crash. That’s my theory of road racing. A little luck is beneficial, too.

Racing is all about risk. But it’s more than just life and limb. Road racing can exact a toll on your finances and family. Careers are launched, and in the blink of an eye, years, decades, and a lifetime of preparation can come apart in one split-second decision. (partially from Road & Track.) 

It’s much more than going fast around a track and having fun. You are in a fight as soon as the green flag drops. You will be Black Flagged and disqualified if you’re not competitive or fast enough.