The San Marino Grand Prix
Qualifying: Like a knife in my gut, I stood, speechless, in disbelief, after Mika Hakkinen pulled off a stunning final qualifying lap to snatch the pole from Schumacher. I couldn't believe it! Schumi had it IN THE BAG!
The race started out in dramatic fashion, as Schumi attempted to disorient his pursuers with a smoke screen tactic. Failing that, he dropped in behind Mika Hakkinen, waiting for his chance to snatch the lead from the reigning champ. The subsequent strategy was nothing short of perfection- with the tires lasting more than expected (evidenced by the lower lap times further into the stints), Schumi chose to add more fuel during the first stop, letting Mika out first, but then staying out longer during the second stint and clicking off some good times. When that Ferrari pulled out of the pits on the second stop it was probably the most exciting moment (for us Schumi fans) of the season sofar.
Of course, once again Ferrari claims their car's superiority, and once again, McLaren blames this-or-that for their demise. WHo do you believe? Well, looking at the points, I'd say it's fairly obvious...
The next track on the agenda is Silverstone. Last year I told Schumi to "break a leg". This year I think I'll just wish him good luck...
