Ep 12. Destruction Derby

The hit TV series CHiPS kicked off in 1977 and ran for six seasons until 1983. The show revolved around the work of the California Highway Patrol, specifically the daily adventures and challenges faced by two motorcycle officers, Jon Baker and Frank Poncherello. The show was known for its exciting motorcycle chases and stunts, as well as its humor and lighthearted tone. In season 3, episode 12, entitled "Destruction Derby," Jon and Ponch find themselves in the middle of a high stakes demolition derby.

The episode begins with Jon and Ponch responding to a car accident on the freeway. As they're clearing the scene, they overhear chatter on their radio about a demolition derby taking place in a nearby warehouse. Jon is excited at the prospect of attending the derby, but Ponch is hesitant, knowing that the events can be dangerous and unpredictable.

Despite Ponch's reservations, Jon convinces him to check out the derby. When they arrive, they see that the derby is a raucous and rowdy event, with crowds of people watching as cars ram into each other at high speeds. As Jon and Ponch make their way through the crowd, they spot a familiar face - one of the derby drivers is a former suspect from a previous case they worked on.

As Jon and Ponch try to get a closer look at the driver, they're approached by a man who introduces himself as the promoter of the derby. He invites the officers to watch from the VIP section, which they accept. From their vantage point, Jon and Ponch can see that the derby is being run by a shady group of individuals, who are manipulating the outcomes of the matches in order to make money on bets.

As the derby continues, Jon and Ponch notice that the former suspect they saw earlier is being targeted by other drivers, who are determined to take him out of the competition. When they confront the driver, he admits that he's been coerced into participating in the derby by the same shady individuals who are running the event.

With the help of some backup from their fellow officers, Jon and Ponch set out to put an end to the derby. They start by shutting down the betting operation, causing chaos among the spectators. They then move to stop the drivers from continuing the competition, using their skills on their motorcycles to dodge and avoid the cars.

Despite facing numerous obstacles - including a fire that breaks out in the warehouse - Jon and Ponch are able to stop the derby and bring the perpetrators to justice. The former suspect is grateful for their help and promises to straighten out his life.

In the end, Jon and Ponch reflect on the events of the day, with Jon admitting that he had a lot of fun at the derby, despite its dangerous nature. Ponch reminds him that the goal of their job is to keep people safe, and that sometimes that means making tough choices.

Season 3, episode 12 of CHiPS, "Destruction Derby," is a thrilling and action-packed episode that showcases the skill and bravery of the California Highway Patrol officers. With exciting stunts, a high stakes plot, and the familiar wit and humor of Jon and Ponch, it's a must-watch for fans of the show and fans of classic TV.