Formula one

The cars have improved so much technically therefore in terms of driving ability it is impossible to compare but in terms of humility and behaviour of some of the modern drivers compared with those of times gone by there is no comparison . Graham Hill, Sterling Moss, Jim Clark, John Surtees were true gentlemen and always gracious in both victory and defeat . In terms of the technology when they drove then their skill and courage was immense, there were none of the safety standards imposed we have now which in essence makes them pioneers of danger and daring .
 
In terms of my post I was going to mention James because I think he is probably the first example of the change in attitude which has lead to the arrogance and behaviour that some of the modern drivers display now.
 
I got into watching F1 Gran Prix shortly after Ayrton Senna passed away. I regretted not having seen him race while he was alive. I was a big fan of Micheal Schumacher for many years. Enjoyed watching him race up until he left Ferrari and racing. His attempt of a comeback some years later showed how hard it is for a lower tier car to compete with the big money ones. Even with a better skilled driver behind the wheel.

By then my favorite drivers and even alternate favorite drives like Eddie Irvine, Mika Hakkinen, David Coulthard, etc were slowly being moved aside by young new guys I knew nothing about. I lost interest in the sport. I agree the new drivers have little on the greats of old such as Jackie Stewart, Alan Prost, Niki Lauda, Nigel Mansell, Graham Hill, Sterling Moss to name a few.
 
In my youth I recall the following racing names

Geoff Duke
John Surtees
Mike Hailwood

who between them cover the period from 1951 through to 1967.

All would have done well on the 37 mile circuit on the Island.
 
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