Formula 1: Kimi lands the first blow!

This weekend was one of those which party promoters label a ‘dream weekend’. At the typical dream weekend, parties litter the chosen location (think Negril). You are surrounded by numerous exciting events, each with intriguing themes, all aimed at drowning you in a sea of endless pleasure.

Motorsports fans had their own hedonistic experience this weekend. Why do I say this? I will eleborate. NASCAR played their tune at their Thunderdome, Bristol Motor Speedway, NHRA (drag racing) rumbled through Florida, endurance racers harassed the clock for 12 hours at Sebring, there was motocross action also and the cream of the crop – F1 – began their cross-continent air/road trip in the land known as ‘down under’  – Australia. Pick your discipline – it was at a track this weekend!

But, I will digress no more. Formula 1 is known for a lot of things and unpredictability in F1 is as certain as an increase in gas prices in Jamaica! We saw some of this unpredictability this weekend. Drivers itching to go, were left holding wet bags on Saturday as the weather ensured that qualifying was rescheduled. Red Bull racing fans were possibly thinking that the monopoly was alive and well when Vettel sounded the alarm that nothing has changed and took pole. Duh! That’s what Vettel does!

Kimi

Despite his pole spot, Vettel did not form the lead highlight after the race. There were a reported 7 lead changes in the 58 laps race. And when all the strategies were exhausted and the drivers were left to fight to the checkered – the enigmatic Finn, Kimi, rose ahead of his rivals and drew first blood. He won Round 1 in Australia.

The usual suspects were strapped to runner up positions – Alonso 2nd, and Vettel 3rd. Lewis Hamilton was spared the fate of his teammate, Rosberg who retired, he finished 5th. Kimi has sipped World Champion champagne and this win must be a confidence boost, even though you will never see it – remember we are talking about the ‘Iceman’.

So Kimi and his Lotus team are off to a good start. Should Ferrari and Red Bull be concerned?

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer