Darren has competed in road racing for over 27 years, from SCCA Club racing to driving for a Nissan factory endurance racing team. He spent many years as a professional photographer and cinematographer before starting his present automotive consulting company, ArtSpeed. Darren is currently the lead instructor for the BMW CCA L.A. Chapter, has taught at many teen safe-driving schools, and works as a facilitator and product specialist for numerous manufacturers, conducting dynamic driving events, new vehicle launches and sales training programs. Darren is currently working for BMW as an instructor for their Ultimate Driving Experience program.
"First, let me say a HUGE thank you for creating the "Put On The Brakes" program. Our youngest daughter, Tessa, went through the training held last year in Irvine, CA. Because I wasn’t working at the time, we couldn’t afford Master Drive (the program we’d put our older daughter through) and a friend recommended your program to us. We signed her up immediately and were so thankful that she had the training that made us comfortable with her driving. Last Friday, my other daughter (Aspen’s) car, a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, broke down and we learned that it needed thousands of dollars of work. She’s attending Bible Institute with plans on becoming a worship leader in church… and, again, money was an issue. But my husband said we should look at Kia because that’s the car he’d driven in the Brakes program and it was affordable and a good car. So, we looked and we bought! She’s the proud owner of a 2015 Kia Soul - she’s making the payments herself, too! If it hadn’t been for Kia’s support of the Brakes program - we wouldn’t be owners of a Kia - please let them know that their support of programs like yours has a tremendous impact on the next generation of drivers. Thanks so much for your help in ensuring our girls are safe when they drive. We so appreciate it! We know your story - but we can’t imagine your loss. Our hearts are full when we think of the significant contribution you’re making into the lives of families across America as a result of the loss of your boys. We pray for you and your family!"
-Judi Chimits (and Bob)
"The BRAKES experience was fantastic! I thought the training was superb and that the entire experience was fantastic. I really enjoyed speaking with Doug and Matt - both great guys. The rain made for even better training for Connor! I told Doug that I really want to help promote other Orlando BRAKES events. I have a great deal of experience organizing large events and am certain that I can pack the classes. I also spoke to the ladies from Mannheim's and they were excited about future events too. I am not sure how many kids I was able to get to the classes in the short notice, but I know it was at least 5. Thanks again for the help and I look forward to working with you in the future!"
-Christopher R. Townsend
