fastest car doesn't always win

I've been "racing" with other cars to and from work since I bought my new car. My car is only 200 HP and a 4 cylinder engine, so in the spectrum of cars, its not *that* impressive. But its not the speed and power that counts.

I like the feeling of acceleration and speeding down the freeway--but jammed packed during rush hour on the way to work doesn't really let me play. However, coming home at 8 (or 10) pm is a different game--lots of room. I haven't been actively seeking these speed challenges, it just happens. And I should say that I am not engaging in (or endorsing) any type of risky or careless behavior--its just a game, so to say.

Speeding down the freeway just doesn't work. You need to gauge the traffic flow, the freeway on/off ramps, anticipate people' s behavior. Its almost like a 2-way Tetris, where the other pieces also can move/change orientation, affecting how you move. So the boys in their Toyotas, Acuras, etc have no finesse--its purely about speed for them. But being able to move across the lanes, holding back until a space opens up and then speeding past the "opponent" who is stuck behind AND between cars is pure elation. Knowing when to slow down, down-shift, lay back and wait--then move. It pretty much is a game of cat and mouse that requires thinking ahead, being patient and knowing when to strike (and not get pulled over!).