My Story - Chris Kaufmann
Last Updated on 09/16/08

After college, I started an automotive performance business in Tucson, but after a few years I moved to California to fuel a deeper involvement in auto racing. Having moderate success at racing, I was soon to hit a bump in the road when my race car, trailer and truck were stolen. I had no insurance, so needing another way to make a living I joined the Los Angeles Police Department where I had an exciting career.

I simultaneously continued with the car business, thanks to lots of time off from the PD. as well as racing. along with competitive pistol shooting. In the late 90s I sold the business (after 30 years) and taught golf full time; even tried my hand at the PGA senior tour where I soon found out I was not as good as I thought I was. Those guys are good.

I then spent a few years after that back racing with some long time friends, the Gliddens, and living outside of Indianapolis. Just before 2002 I got an offer to manage a business that made race car parts back in California and there I have been for the last 7 years. Living right next to the beautiful Pacific Ocean and yes, still racing cars (in fact the Oct. Hot Rod magazine has a story on one of my cars, page 72). I guess I can sum up my life as having been quite the adventure, so far.

Message to the Class: Lincoln said, “It isn’t the years in your life, but the life in your years.” Hopefully everyone can enjoy the golden years with good health. Carpe diem.