John Bowe: Battling it out

As we approach the end of another bumper V8 Supercar season we are once again heading to the final race meeting to determine our Champion.

The one thing I truly hope – is the two true title contenders are left alone to battle it out as best they can and not have interference from teammates or manufacturers that has an impact on the final result.

I have had it suggested in the past few days that Holden have asked their drivers to help Lowndesy. I’m sure that's not true – Craig wouldn’t want that way!

The clash between Jamie and Frosty was just hard racing by two champion drivers – nothing more, nothing less – no conspiracy at play whatsoever.

Whether Craig wins or loses he’s still a Champion I reckon, more by the way he conducts himself. May the best man/team win!

From a purist’s point of view, I'm not sure Homebush is the best track to have a title deciding contest, but it is what it is.

Whilst I love the venue, the poorly devised chicanes always seems to create chaos and a championship should never be decided by chaos.

The longer Sunday race at Phillip Island once again showed this category needs longer races, and we’ll have plenty of them next season.

Last weekend’s round showed despite a mid season form slump the Triple Eight Red Bull Racing cars and drivers are still the ones to beat. I bet Gizzy can't wait to get there next year.

Likewise, Wilson Security GRM is back with the competitiveness they had last year, I can honestly say Scotty McLaughlin has the ingredients to be Champion next year.

The GRM Volvos had impressive pace at Phillip Island, both in qually and race pace, same with their tyre durability – I think they’ve got it sorted and they need a little consistency next season.

I’ve also been impressed with the continuing pace of Scott Pye and the DJR Team Penske squad. They are genuine podium contenders, young Scott’s a real talent – and with the addition of Fabian Coulthard and Phil Keed they will surely bring race wins their way next year.

In reality, the V8 Supercars show is incredibly competitive, exciting, very professional, and played at such a high level. We are a lucky country indeed to have this form of racing.

To the rest of the field at Homebush I say, please don't stuff the championship chances of the two protagonists – the nation will never forgive you!

I must say firstly, I’m a Giz fan – he’s a good bloke and an awesome driver. I was surprised at the leniency of the penalty and felt for Davey Reynolds, though. I don’t think it was right, in my mind the penalty was too light. End of story!

Great news for Tim Slade and Brad Jones Racing, I think they are a match made in heaven. Let me explain – Wilson Security sponsored SBR a few years back and I had the opportunity to observe Tim from close quarters. Tim was a rookie in reality and he showed real flair, I thought.

The close-knit environment created by Brad and Kim Jones will really help Sladey fulfill his potential, I reckon. Don't forget, when Fabian went to HRT he almost sunk without trace. Brad Jones Racing took a chance on Fabian and history often has a way of repeating itself!

See you at the Coate Hire Sydney 500.

Cheers,JB