John Bowe: My Two Bucks Worth
I know this might shock a few of you … and I’ve seen a little bit of this over the years! Seems to me one of the favorite subjects currently (other than who’ll win in 2013) is the matter of parity – surprise, surprise!
I’m hearing there is lots of lobbying at the moment amongst the different makes in the V8 Supercars paddock. So, here’s my two bucks worth.
Personally, I don't think we need to move away from what has been a very stable set of rules, in fact the most stable in the world of motorsport.
In the history of the category there has only ever been a couple of parity adjustments ever made, both detrimental to Ford incidentally (it would be remiss of me not to mention that, haha). I write this from a truly independent/neutral position.
I have no ties with any manufacturer… at all, be they in V8 Supercars or otherwise. I firmly believe we should have a once a year homologation review where the commission can pass judgment. If Nissan for instance want to change their aero, they should be able to resubmit a car for testing in December with a view to racing it next year.
The same should apply for Ford, Holden, Erebus and Volvo in the future. Then, it might … I say might … stop the media circus we’ve been seeing in relation to fuel consumption and aero by some teams.
There are plenty of clever people in the sport, smarter than me so in my view some sort of improved system is required – there’s a challenge for the sport and one I believe is being worked on.
When one is found, impound four cars straight after a race so as not to allow the clever individuals in the teams to bleed the down force off and fudge the readings by various means, not that any team might try and affect the outcome …. never!
Make no mistake, don’t underestimate the creative talents and ingenuity of the engineers today. In my book, Holden have the best downforce/drag ratio by a small margin, due to their smartness, experience and desire.
The other teams all need to work harder and not be given a free kick. Nissan and Erebus have both performed outstandingly well in their first year – I don’t want anyone to underestimate the massive task of introducing a new brand to our sport … they should be very proud of their achievements in year one!
Both Holden and Ford teams have carry-over knowledge (if you like) with COTF and the Nissan’s and Benz of Erebus have had to start …. blind if you will. Sure, they are race teams with the highest levels of motorsport knowledge and understanding … both teams have a large void to fill before they really understand and can develop these cars to their potential.
The harder and smarter they work, the more the results will come but let's refine the means of measurement please. I have a couple of ideas if anyone is interested!
I look forward to seeing everyone at Phillip Island soon.
Cheers,
JB
Follow John Bowe on Facebook. John Bowe is supported by Wilson Security, Dunlop Super Dealers and Coates Hire, competing in the 2013 Touring Car Masters Championship.
