"Does anyone have any statistics?"
Yes.
I've been doing exactly what he was doing most weekends for 40 yrs.
No incedents
No engine failures
No problems.
Therefor demonstrated perfectly safe QED.
Say what you like, have your moan, take the micky,call me what you want, express your opinion,prove your theory etc.etc.
It will not change the facts, I am still here I have not hurt anyone , any aircraft, and I have broken no rules. Ergo it is safe by demonstration. Fact.