Old hands versus young chargers

[The Stig]

I've noticed one or two recent comments on the forum regarding the more experienced drivers and at what point their careers should be curtailed. (The Proton thread for example). Does the forum consider the series benefits from drivers such as David Leslie and Anthony Reid competing or should more drivers of the Tom Chilton and Paul O'Neill ilk be given their opportunity ?

IMHO, Anthony Reid has had a hand in much of what has been entertaining this season. David Leslie perhaps less so because he has developing equipment. Long may they both continue.

[R5CPD]

Here-Here!! :) The BTCC needs drivers of all ages and experience to help keep up the great racing we are seeing at the moment!:)

[Les]

you def. need both. The youngsters give their enthusiasm and bravado versus the experience and craftiness.
I like to see a youngster being taught by the 'older guys' like Tom Chilton with Matty and Morrison. He has come on leaps and bounds this year and not just on the circuit.

[Stuart]

This is one of the beauties of Touring Car racing - there is practically no age limit. Denny Hulme died of a heart attack at the wheel of a BMW M3 at Bathurst at a ripe old age... what a fantastic way to go!!!
The youngsters definately bring in the raw, seat of the pants action to the racing, while the experienced racers tend to entertain with their sheer skill. Old hands like Anthony Reid and David Leslie are what really make Touring Car racing so special. And I'm quite sure were it not for his back injury that Steve Soper would still be competitive.
This has to be where Tourers win over F1... drivers simply getting better and better with age.

[Nikh_mg]

I think O'Neill and Turkington are the stars of the future. They are already proven winners and great sports. I dont know about Chilton, he is still young but I dont think he has the pace. Then there is Tom Boardman, he is a bit rough and wild despite his speed. Hines could be one for the future. Hopefully Reid and Leslie will stick around for a while longer, and Thompson aint exactly old yet, the BTCC is gonna get better and better:D

[Tag]

I think O'Neill needs to prove himself more before he can be a real front runner. He has the speed and ability, but he needs to say to him self 'I can win, I can win' and them go out there and do it. So ofter we see him down in the mid field when his teams mates are up at the front.
Come on Paul you can do it.

[The Stig]

Tag, how refreshing to see someone from your part of the country encouraging someone from Paul O'Neills. Still think O'Neill seems slightly in awe of his fellow competitors. He needs to acquire a hard edge. He may compete well on the track as far as I can see, but could you imagine him doing "a Muller" ??
His likely response would be to be thrilled with second or third, a bit like Brands in May.

[Nikh_mg]

I think when he realises what he could achieve, he could go all the way, but remember he is still young, let him be in awe of his heroes, his time will come

[Stuart]

Isn't it great to see a clearly talented driver actually enjoying himself? Paul is so full of enthusiasm, and seems to love racing for racings sake rather than for fame and fortune.

[The Stig]

Paul O'Neill deserves Vauxhall to keep faith with him for next season, he doesn't court controversy and doesn't make a big issue of racing incidents.

He has such an affable nature and must be a sponsors delight.

Best of luck feller