Mark’s racing career spanned almost 20 years in nearly every type of race car from formula open wheel to stock cars, production cars and even some ice racing experience. Mark was senior and/or chief instructor at the Jim Russell Racing Driving School for 28 years and developed their Highway Survival program. He has worked for nearly every car company as a product specialist, and has numerous credits as a “professional driver on a closed course” in commercial and TV work. He has two Mythbusters episodes to his credit. Mark has a passion for teaching safe driving habits- his Father was killed in a car crash.
"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)
"Just wanted to let you all know how much our family enjoyed the BRAKES class at El Toro Marine Base on Saturday 12/7 at 1pm. Both my husband and I attended with our son. He gained confidence and skill and felt it was a great experience. My husband and I commented that even at our age, we'd never had the opportunity to practice slides, panic braking, etc. was a great (although COLD!!) day :) Think it was the coldest day in Orange County in the 46 years I've lived here! It was a great experience for all of us. Please convey our heartfelt thanks to you and the entire BRAKES staff for an amazing experience. "
-Jennifer Aragonez-Harper
