ROADSIDE CHAT – WRESTLE AWAY DISTRACTION, PIN DOWN THE PHONE
It’s the greatest time of year for wrestling fans – February – when the best high school grapplers have their eyes on a state title and a trip to the highest step of the medal podium. This week, thousands of passionate supporters are driving to Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines to cheer them on at the Iowa High School State Boys Wrestling Tournament where the energy is electric.
But before you can watch takedowns, escapes, and pins, you have to get there safely. Just like a wrestler stepping onto the mat, driving requires laser focus and discipline. Phones are great for connecting, and for capturing photos and videos once you’re in the stands, but you shouldn’t let them put you on your back before the match even begins.
Wrestling is about control, and so is good driving. Maximize safe riding time and take control of the road with these tips:
- Stay in offensive position: Pin your phone down and keep your hands on the wheel. Your focus should be on the road, not on your notifications. Assign a co-pilot to manage maps, trip logistics, and messages.
- Defend against threats: Heavy traffic and too many loud passengers can be as tough as any bracket. Anticipate the moves of other drivers. And establish your boundaries for a reasonable number of people in your vehicle.
- Pin fatigue: Watching wrestling can be draining, and drowsiness can sneak up on you like a well-executed reversal. If you’re feeling tired, take a break and regroup before getting back on the road.
Drive smart and good luck to all schools!
In 2025 in Iowa, 27 people have been killed in traffic crashes. That’s an increase of one since last Friday. In Iowa in 2024, there were 354 traffic-related deaths. To see statistics published daily by the Office of Driver Services, go to the daily fatality report at https://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/stats/daily.pdf