Ok, missed the first race and SS so no judgements there on any aspect other than damn, can't wait for the SS replays.
As for Race 2, it is weird to say it but in many ways it was processional but entertaining and highly exciting at the same time.
IMO as a Spies doubter some time back I can now see why the US psoters wrapped him so heavily and whilst I am not 100% yet (hey, gotta give something to keep the fire burining) I am well at 99% that he is the real thing.
He impressed me greatly during testing not just by being quick but by being quick early on at new tracks, something that is very difficult to do for any rider, never mind one changing bikes, tyres and 'graduating' onto the world stage. But his race today was the straw for which I will say that he is here to stay as the manner in which he controlled the race and Haga-san was that of an old experienced head which in this case is on relatively young shoulders. Seriously impressive was the way he kept Max at bay (being fair, Max did not really try to pass) but moreso the manner in which he kept within 0.5 second and appeared to do it so easily at the time Haga-san was going full noise to break the group.
His speed through the first sector was fantastic and far superior to Haga-san (who was better in last sector) and allowed him the ability to make that final move andt hen ride away to a comfirtable race winning lead.
Being fair (and I bet this gets me flamed) I am not convinced that Haga-san chased as hard as one would expect given his past years and feel that he may well have realised that Spies was superior on the day and therefore settled reluctantly for second (very un-Hag like). That is not demeaning Spies ride as I would suggest that if Haga-san thought he had a poofteenth of a chance he would have pushed as it is to early in the season to gift points.
A very good result for Haslam and personally I would also suggest the Aprilia of Biaggi who I felt rode superbly if never looking at hreat for the top two (IMO).
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (Jumkie @ Mar 1 2009, 06:40 AM)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}><div class='quotemain'>This race said allot about Ben Spies!
It also says some things about:
AMA
MotoGP
WSBK
Troy Bayliss
Rizla Suzuki
Paul Denning
Yamaha Co.
Yosh Suzuki
Mladin
and on another note:
Migs
Tom
Jumkie, I see what you are getting at but as I have said last year and still stand by it, whether or not Spies was ever going to Suzuki he has (IMO) made the right decision by going to Yamaha and the WSBK as it allows a less pressure environment in which to perform and 'earn' the unquestionable reputation that he will (if today is a guide).
By the way and FWIW, I have a standing bet that Spies will finish top 2 in the WC so don't go hating on me to much.
Garry
