Police officers, chiefs drag race at Irwindale Speedway

IRWINDALE, Calif. (KABC) -- Police chiefs burned some rubber competing in the "Top Cop Challenge" at the Irwindale Speedway Saturday evening.

The chiefs raced each other for the coveted "Top Cop" trophy, but also to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal street racing.

"It's the only time you can race a cop and not get a speeding ticket," Bell Police Department Officer Tom Gibby said.

Drivers did several runs and received an official time. The event only cost spectators and drivers $20.

Drivers at the Speedway supported the idea of keeping racing off the streets. The Irwindale Speedway will close in about a year, which means drivers will have no place to race.

The event was also about advocating for another racetrack in the county.

"They're racing in the street now, so we really need to provide a safe environment for them," Irwindale Police Chief Anthony Miranda said.

The winner of "Top Cop" was San Gabriel Police Chief David Lawton. He said keeping fast cars on a closed track is the real victory.