Stoner off to a Banging Start in ’08

Well, there you have it. As I sit here at work, counting down the hours until the first GP race of the season (or at least the local broadcast of the first race), it becomes apparent that it may be a repeat of last season. In the pre-2007 seasons, dating back to when he first started racing in the premier class, Valentino Rossi was the man to beat. He started on the Honda RC-211 V. When people attributed his massive success to the bike, he switched over to Yamaha (a notably crappier bike, at the time) just to prove that it was his riding ability, not the machinery, that set him apart. 2006, Rossi had an unfortunate series of mechanical, and health related events that resulted in Nicky Hayden taking the world title(no offense Nicky). Last year there was only one person who stood out. It was Casey Stoner. Barely into his twenties, Stoner teamed up with Ducati and their new Desmodeci bike, beat the crap out of everyone. I mean, the dude did not lose. Those who watched the races know what I’m talking about. He would qualify for the front row (if not pole)almost every race and develop a huge gap at the front. Even when his tires were obviously warn, and creating a super rough ride for him, Stoner was detonating all the way to the finish line. It was amazing at first, but then it got kind of boring, watching Stoner blow everyone away each week. I just checked the standings from the first free practice at Quatar (Sunday’s race) and Stoner is leading. I’m hoping with fingers crossed, that someone brings some serious competition for Stoner this year (even though I am a fan of his). Come on Rossi! Come one Hayden! Step it up gents! P.S. I’m still taking reservations for spots on the couch, Sunday evening.