Last night I supposed that to me Bathurst (one of the most difficult circuits to survive at) represented my ‘life’ and nothing short of total disaster would make me give up before it officially ended. Despite being at the back, generally on my own, it is a complete challenge to successfully complete a race – no matter how long.
I used the ‘in-cockpit’ add-on Ade provided a link to for the first time, and found it a great aid. Especially on the RHS where it showed who was in front and also who was behind me, so I was able to see the leaders gradually getting closer to lapping me. Thanks Ade – can I use it in PnG as well?
Congratulations not only to the podium but also the 6 of us who managed finished.
Dan you were very unfortunate to suffer engine failure on the last lap – but hey it isn’t all bad news as you gave me my highest ever finishing position 5th.
for which I am eternally grateful. Actually as so many kept pulling out I even mused that I might even end up on the podium.
This brings me to real ‘pet hate of mine’ drivers who leave a race just because they are having a ‘bad hair day’.
Every time I managed to pass someone last night (usually due to them going off the track) and pick up a place the person appeared to exit the game (okay I know it doesn’t affect my position but it is more satisfying to be 12 of 13 than 12th). If you can not continue (stalled engine, no wheels etc) then okay but if you can make it to the pits for repair I believe that out of respect to your fellow drivers you should do so. Just quitting I believe to be very disrespectful to those battling on. I have seen all the excuses ‘I was driving below par and didn’t want to spoil others race’ ‘I couldn’t complete a lap without going off’ well why not just slow down a bit and drive with a bit more caution.
So can I appeal to everyone that next season we show considerably more respect to each other and “stick at it” if at all possible. Also (although it doesn't really affect me) can drivers stop trying to win the race on the first corner of lap 1. There is generally a long road ahead and if you are fast enough you will get back into the pack.
I’ll get off my soap box now and thank all of you for making this season’s races so enjoyable (GTL and PnG) I look forward to being able to continue next season.
Final thanks to Tony and Legzy for their great innovative organisation.
Laurie
