<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (Jumkie @ Jun 27 2008, 09:00 AM)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}><div class='quotemain'>Povol, you are not alone. That was my first reaction. (You may have noticed Pinky felt similar...well sort of
, hence why I wanted to discuss it). But in further analysis of the situation, I thought, well, racing at this level isn't exactly a thing one should take lightly or rush. We often throw around this phrase: "these guys put their lives on the line every time they race." Well it actually has truth. Consider the risks involved in being behind the learning curve a day behind, and throw in again factors of uncertainty. For us sitting here as American fans, of course we want to see him out there and may be disappointed in his decision. We may even question his meddle. But if you put yourself in his shoes, think of the professionalism and restrain he has shown in perhaps NOT jumping/rushing himself into a situation that could be potentially very dangerous. Remember, he is already tagged to ride some more wild cards. On top of that, he has a very important Indy test just days from now. Consider that this is more important, to have a good showing at a home GP, than the track time vs. risk in such short notice.
So yes, I’m not happy he isn’t gonna have a go at Assen. And yes, I might be tempted to question his commitment to and advancement in his career, its has crossed my mind that perhaps he as been hanging around complacent-mladin to much and making him shy from testing himself internationally); but then I began to think about the bigger picture. I think it was a wise decision. Perhaps he too was leaning to jump at the opportunity, but cooler heads prevail.
Or then again, maybe Pinky is right and he is just “chicken ....”.
Anybody else want to chime in one way or the other?
Spies is in an interesting predicament.
If he qualifies at Assen after just one practice session on a track he hasn't raced on and struggles big time, then he may think it will affect his prospects on gaining a full time ride next year.
I have no doubt if Ben already had a deal for 2009 inked, he would be riding at Assen today.
Personally I think he should just go for it. He still has 2 wildcard rides at Laguna Seca and Indy to impress his prospective bosses. But on the other hand if he does reasonable well here, then his stocks rise further.
