tuesday the 11th of October

Ryan Briscoe is set to join the number 10 car for the last two races of the Champ Car season. I, for one, applaud this move. You may remember some blog back I championed his cause for, what I think was at the time, the seat available at PKV. This kid is the real deal and unfortunately for him, he hasn’t had the chance to showcase his full potential recently, as he, unfortunately for him again, wasted some time in the IRL as per Toyota’s request. The only thing that came out of that stint was his familiarity with the SAFER barrier. Heck, he could become a spokesperson for it. The move at Rusport makes all the sense in the world, what with the Australian race coming up. Sure, it’s a little convenient, but it’s also smart and it’s only going to make the Australian crowd all the more enthusiastic (if that’s possible). And Mexico City will remind him of the traditional racing circuit. I tell you this; he’s in for a shell shock when his first race takes place in his native country. He’s not going to believe the atmosphere and the demand for him. I reckon (is that how the Aussies use that word) he’ll want to go nowhere after racing at home and will fight hard for a Champ Car seat next season. Which is why I think this is a good move on Rusport. My understanding (I think it was Robin who said it on windtunnel) that Dario wanted a commitment for next season and that Rusport wasn’t prepared to give him that. Great move on Rusport. Who is Dario to demand a ride next season? Granted you can’t blame him for wanting security, but its still an unusual request to make and a bit demanding if you ask me. Now, Briscoe will ride out the season and hope that he impresses enough for next year, something Dario could have done but evidently opted not too.

Correct me if I am wrong, but the 2006 Atlantic champion doesn’t get a ride in Mexico City, correct? I mean, a ride sanctioned by Champ Car, as per years past. That’s interesting, because while nothing will ever take the 2 million dollar prize money away, participating in a Champ Car event is pretty good incentive too. Now, I wouldn’t be surprised if Simon and Graham both raced in the season finale to hone their skills for next season. I also read that Wirth might join the squad too. Certainly those are the choice drivers to join the series next season. Pagenaud is the Champion; Rahal has the name, so it will be up to Wirth to come up with the funding on his own to make the deal happen. I hope it does. I’m sure our Face of Champ Car hopes so too (oh no you didn’t!). hee.

I look forward to watching the broadcast on television because I really want to study the broadcast and analyzing it afterward. I have heard so many things from different people that I am curious to see if for myself. My understanding is that Beekhuis can do no wrong, but that the other guys are hit and miss with a lot of you.
I’m hoping to watch the race with a couple of diehard champ car fans (they know who they are), so we can all cheer. Actually, come to think of it, I’ll be able to be partial to a driver for the first time since Monterrey. Hmm, whom will I cheer for? I’ve got a couple of weeks to think about it….