Warrior’s Chariot: High-Performance Healing
By Dawn A. Brazier
Editor’s Note: This article appears in the upcoming Q4 2025 issue of quattro Magazine. Audi Club members receive both print and digital access to the magazine, with the latest issue already available online ahead of its arrival in mailboxes. Click here to view the full issue now and explore the quattro Magazine archives. Not a member yet? Join today to unlock this exclusive benefit and much more.
For a few unforgettable hours at a specialized training facility in Douglas County, Colorado, a remarkable transformation unfolds. Just as drivers tackle the hairpin turns and soaring elevation of nearby Pikes Peak, Warrior’s Chariot participants navigate the unseen curves of trauma—rediscovering adrenaline, feeling the rush of freedom, and connecting with the joy of the present. Veterans rediscover exhilaration. First responders smile like kids again. And a carefully orchestrated lineup of exotic cars—Audi R8s, McLarens, Aston Martins, Ferraris, and more—becomes chariots of gratitude.
Warrior’s Chariot wasn’t born from branding or business strategy but from Rick Douglas’s deeply personal desire to serve those carrying invisible burdens. What began as a calling has grown into a unique experience delivering healing, excitement, and connection to veterans, first responders, and children facing adversity.
As Chad Jensen, President of Warrior’s Chariot, puts it, the experience is never really about the cars. It’s about giving people who carry invisible burdens a few moments of true freedom. For that brief time, they’re not a patient, a former soldier, or a first responder—they’re simply free.
The events are intentionally intimate and thoughtfully planned. They’re built around high-performance vehicles and the people willing to share them. One Warrior per car. No spectators. No distractions. Just the open track, the sound of the engine, and the pure thrill of the ride.
Jensen emphasizes these gatherings aren’t about creating car enthusiasts; they’re about harnessing the raw thrill of sound, acceleration, and speed to offer a moment of complete presence and emotional release. The roar of the engine, the vibration in your chest, the rush of wind—for a brief window, the rest of the world fades away.
The most recent event, held in May at the Douglas County Sheriff’s Emergency Vehicle Operation Center in Littleton, Colorado, offered a combination of high-speed track driving and a tight, technical autocross course. That mix of raw power and precise control gave participants a full range of thrills—and created a day they’ll be talking about for a long time. Participants described emotional release beyond mere excitement. “Driving in these incredible cars and meeting wonderful people was healing,” said one veteran. “It helped me disconnect from everything going on.”
While there was no shortage of impressive vehicles on site, the Audi lineup stood out—for more than just their speed. Jensen noted the Audi R8 strikes a unique balance: stunning looks, thrilling sound, and top-tier performance, yet often feels more approachable than many supercars. That makes it ideal for the Warrior’s Chariot mission. The R8 consistently leaves participants wide-eyed and buzzing with excitement. It’s more than a car—it becomes a way to connect, share adrenaline, and spark real joy.
One highlight was the 2012 R8 GT Coupe, a special track-focused version inspired by Audi’s LMS model—and one of just 333 ever made. Owned by Daunielle Chipman, it packs a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine pushing over 600 horsepower. Its razor-sharp handling made it a standout on both the track and the autocross course.
Daunielle shared, “It’s humbling to bring such immense joy by giving someone a ride in a car they’ve only dreamed about. The innocent laughter as they fly down the straightaway at 120 miles an hour—that moment is worth everything.”
Seth Tefertiller brought his 2017 R8 Coupe, wrapped in Inozetek’s ultra-limited “DDE McLaren 720R Pink.” A full Soul Performance exhaust system and AFE Power intakes unleash the V10’s full fury, with handling dialed in and lowered suspension for optimal grip. A complete Maxton Design body kit adds sharp lines and downforce, and the LED-active rear spoiler stabilizes at speed while illuminating in style.
But it was the human impact that left the most lasting impression. “The best part of this event was seeing the real joy on the faces of the veterans and first responders,” one driver shared. “Their smiles and that sparkle in their eyes—it hit me. Knowing we helped make that happen felt amazing.”
All drivers who volunteer their time and vehicles are the soul of Warrior’s Chariot. Their passion for performance matches their compassion for the people they serve. These aren’t just exotic car owners—they’re committed, vetted volunteers showing up with horsepower and heart.
Another veteran summed it up: “Riding in these cars was beyond anything I expected. I forgot everything and had an amazing day. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.” The bond goes both ways. Drivers cherish these experiences. “Getting to know the Warriors and hearing their stories is amazing,” one shared, chuckling about the “grown men squealing” during their rides.
It takes months of planning to make each event happen—from locking down venues and gathering the cars to coordinating with veteran and first responder groups. Warrior’s Chariot relies on a tight-knit community of partners, like VFW and American Legion posts, fire stations, and police departments, to connect with participants. Local businesses provide valuable support, ensuring everything runs smoothly and that each event is truly memorable.
One Vietnam veteran said simply, “As a Vietnam Vet, it was a beautiful tribute to those who served during a difficult time.” Another reflected, “It allowed me to forget outside concerns and just enjoy the day and the people.”
With no paid staff or administrative overhead, every donated dollar goes directly to event execution. Expansion is possible but measured. “We host two to three events per year,” says Jensen. “If we grow, it will always prioritize quality over quantity.”
Sustainable growth depends on committed car owners. “It’s not just about the car,” Jensen says. “We need people with the right mindset. If one car doesn’t show up, that’s one Warrior who misses their experience. That’s something we work extremely hard to avoid.”
Participants notice that commitment. “I was impressed with the lines, speeds in and out of corners, and overall driving ability of the drivers!” said one. “I understand not all drivers race often, but all were very safe.”
The model works because of that care. “I haven’t smiled like that in years,” said a retired veteran after his third ride. Another simply said, “It’s not just the speed. It’s the freedom.”
For those inspired to get involved: drivers with the right cars and mindset can begin vetting on the Warrior’s Chariot website. Donors can trust every cent funds high-impact events. Supporters can spread the word, helping find more drivers, donors, and Warriors who make these days possible.
At its core, Warrior’s Chariot isn’t about exotic cars. It’s about giving those who’ve seen, lost, or endured too much a moment of pure joy—a moment that says: you matter. You’re seen. You’re celebrated. Sometimes, a moment is all it takes to start healing. And for these Warriors, each ride is its own summit—a personal peak, not unlike the triumph of reaching Pikes Peak.
In loving memory of Russ, who passed away shortly after this event.
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