Formula One Heroes

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I watched  Jenson Button achieve 5th place in the Brazilian Grand Prix yesterday, enabling him to take the title of World Champion for 2009. This is a tremendous boost for Great Britain in these times of economic stress. It must be so pleasing for him, as his car went like a dream for the first half of the season, but most recently he has struggled to get  far enough up the field to earn himself the much needed points.  But yesterday he did it, pushing Barrichello, his nearest rival, out of contention.

Jenson did not need a place on the podium to achieve his dream yesterday, which is just as well, as he started from about 14th place on the grid after a disappointing qualifying session the day before. Another British hero, our World Champion of last year, Lewis Hamilton, also had a disappointing qualifying session on Saturday, but undeterred by this, he started from 17th position and rose to a magnificent 3rd place, which saw him up on the podium.

Having watched Lewis struggle  earlier this season to cope with a  car without any power or downforce  this year, has been truly harrowing.  I have admired his loyalty to the team that he relies on to provide him with a fast car, and his dignity , when in spite of all his efforts to race it, he had to accede to low placings. This man is so talented, but he had a car that let him down badly, but did he complain? He did not, and it has proved to me, although everyone loves to win, Lewis is a true sportsman because he goes out there and tries, even when he knows the car is not fulfilling its potential.

On Sunday   he gave an amazing drive. He overtook from way down the grid, and it was wonderful to see him up there where he truly belongs. Until recently his season has been fraught with disappointment, and this time with a much improved car, he was able to get the job done in style.  I knew this position on the podium would build his self confidence , and I was looking forward to hearing his speech.

But it didn’t happen.  Mark Webber, the worthy race winner gave his speech, and then Robert Kubica also, but just as it was Lewis’ turn to speak, the tv cameras left the interview room, and focused back on the crowds and Jenson. How  rude that was, and I was so disappointed not to be able to hear him speak!

Lewis is a hero, a strong and determined  young man, who has proved his worth of character to me this year, and I salute him. With his new car he will be back next year, better and stronger than ever, and I can’t wait for it! Well done to you Lewis!