John Bowe's End of Year Review: Part One

Now, with the season done and dusted – Jamie has five V8 Supercars Championship trophies sitting on his mantelpiece – I thought I’d share my view on the drivers’ performance this season.

I’ve never been confined by convention, I’ve always said what I think, I have respect for every team and driver in the V8 Supercars Championship. This is the ELITE level of motorsport. I’ll start from the rear of the grid and give you JB’s 2013 Driver Review.

Maro Engel: Probably did not perform as well as I expected, to be honest. He has a fine pedigree in Europe and good results but Australian motor racing has always been under-estimated in Europe. He had great speed occasionally so he probably deserves another shot, sadly he probably won't get one.

Scott Pye: Sadly, from hero in last year’s Dunlop Development Series to zero in his first main game drive. It would have sunk most rookies, anyone who knows anything can see his talent. My friends Dick Johnson and Wilson Security are two of his believers. He has to integrate and work like a slave next year, reminiscent of Jamie when he got the Tasman gig. The ball is now in Scotty’s court.

Tim Blanchard: I know Tim well and he has lots of natural ability, anyone who races well in England has talent and Tim won there. In my opinion he needs to believe in himself more and get a much tougher attitude. It's dog-eat-dog in V8 Supercars, only the strong survive.

Todd Kelly: What can I say about this bloke, a Bathurst winner and a fine driver in the modern mould. His championship is a reflection on his role in the Kelly Racing/Nissan evolution. It’s very difficult to wear three hats - he is still young and capable. Should he keep driving? I believe so but it's a very hard gig being an owner/driver, always was and now almost impossible in today’s racing world.

Dean Fiore: Deano has always been a very solid driver and a ripper bloke. I don't think his results reflect his ability, he’s in the wrong place (again). This year was no exception. It's ok to have a Triple Eight car but if you don't run it like Triple Eight and have Triple Eight type people you will always struggle. The jury is out on Deano for next season – it has been for a while.

Michael Caruso: He is so fast when he’s on it, and yet so inconsistent at other times. He’s paying the price of being with a new manufacturer. I really rate Michael but to be third out of four against your teammates is just not good enough. Next year I honestly expect more from you Mikey!

Tim Slade: A potential Champion in my view, being in the right place at the right time. Not sure about his choice of Walkinshaw Racing? Four cars is a nightmare in my view.

There is none more dedicated and studious than Tim. His Championship position (this year) is entirely due to the new start-up Erebus AMG. A new team (car) this year - next year, who knows? He will certainly keep the other Walkinshaw boys on their toes.

David Wall: I’m slightly biased (here) - Wilson Security supports me and I know David well. He’s a very capable racer, I’ve spent plenty of time with him during the season and he continues to improve. Having two very capable teammates can be crushing at times, he’s kept them honest. I have high hopes for him.

Lee Holdsworth: One of my faves. Leeroy is an awesome bloke and a great driver.

Once again the whole Erebus set up cost him a higher position - mark my words, in the right car with the right people, he is a potential Champion! Next year his teammate is an acknowledged race winner, I reckon Lee will keep him honest. I think it’s now up to Erebus to deliver the cars – I expect with progress, these guys are capable of challenging for wins.

Next week I’ll take a look at the mid-field finishers.

Cheers,

Follow John Bowe on Facebook. Bowe is supported by Wilson Security, Dunlop Super Dealers and Coates Hire.