Excited for the future of the series and it's rookies

[numetalbizkit]

We have a great rookie class this year with a very diverse field of drivers. If Ganassi 2 can get it together and if Panther can find a little more, we could have a great 2012. Hinch, Hildebrand, Kimball, Jakes, and even Pagenaud (whose not really a rookie) can be competitive in the future and have great battles as the old guard of Franchitti, Tracy, Kanaan, etc. starts to ride into the sunset.

I look forward to the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series Season and how the rookies of today can compete on a clean slate, tomorrow. Should be a great run to the end of this season, too.

[FTHurley]

I'm curious where Newgarden will end up. I feel like one more year in Lights would be a good idea, but I'm not the one who has to go out and scrape up a budget.

[AFColt]

I'm curious where Newgarden will end up. I feel like one more year in Lights would be a good idea, but I'm not the one who has to go out and scrape up a budget.

I'm wondering if we'll see him in a half-season somewhere. Just not sure, but I think he's coming in better regarded than his predecessor Vernay.

To the original topic, I think one of the most impressive things to me is how media and fan-connected so much of the rookie class is. All are regulars on Twitter (not just intermittent users, but show some genuine interactivity with fans), and I think they know how to work that side of things well.

If you asked me if I'd be interested in James Jakes returning for 2012 some six months ago, I would have honestly said no. But he's not a scrub; he's improved, kept the right attitude, and has come darn close to some big finishes. The results don't show it, but I think he's the series most improved driver from the start of the season until now.

[goiuftftft]

I completely agree with you concerning Jakes. Jakes, like Baguette last year, has turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Rookies are at a disadvantage in the present era compared to generations past because of the minimal testing allowed (or afforded) by teams. Teams seem to have to use race weekends to develop a cohesiveness and comfort level. I wonder if it would be reasonable to allow teams with a rookie driver an extra test day at facilities either the day prior or after an event.
I think an interesting dynamic next season is going to be which drivers thrive with the new car. The turbo and increased horsepower should cause some separation. I'm not the most informed Indycar fan, so I don't know what the new chassis downforce levels are. Regardless, it will be interesting to see which drivers with lesser experience will thrive.

[Dez1013]

Fixing the ladder system and bringing in some USAC guys to Indy Lights was probably one of the best things Indycar can do to develop long term growth and cultivate fans.

[ZUL8TR]

I'm wondering if we'll see him in a half-season somewhere. Just not sure, but I think he's coming in better regarded than his predecessor Vernay.

To the original topic, I think one of the most impressive things to me is how media and fan-connected so much of the rookie class is. All are regulars on Twitter (not just intermittent users, but show some genuine interactivity with fans), and I think they know how to work that side of things well.

If you asked me if I'd be interested in James Jakes returning for 2012 some six months ago, I would have honestly said no. But he's not a scrub; he's improved, kept the right attitude, and has come darn close to some big finishes. The results don't show it, but I think he's the series most improved driver from the start of the season until now.

Bingo! The more accessible the drivers are to fans, the better for the series. It really brings an emotional attachment by the fans. I'd also think the drivers might get some enjoyment out of the interaction as well. If the drivers are having fun and doing well + they have a growing fan base, then I would assume we'd see sponsor follow suit.

[mdkiel]

Any word on if there is going to be a year 2 of the Bryan Clauson Experience?

[AFColt]

Any word on if there is going to be a year 2 of the Bryan Clauson Experience?

That's a great question! I'd even love to see him get a shot at Indy next year in the big cars. He's acquitted himself pretty well in Lights this year.

[FTHurley]

Every time I see flashes from JR or Hinch, I realize that we might be seeing the opening stages of one of those decade-plus battles like Little Al and Michael.

One of things about manufacturer involvement is that companies like Chevy and Honda could promote their drivers and really build that rivalry. That's part of why I want Ford back so much. Imagine Chevy promoting JR while Ford is pushing Hinch. All the pieces would be in place for a terrific long-term storyline.

[raskav]

Any word on if there is going to be a year 2 of the Bryan Clauson Experience?

How about year 1 of the Jonathan Summerton Experience?