Alphacorse

Everyone I know has an opinion about the Nicky v. Valentino showdown. I think Nicky is probably destined to take the first American crown in GP, but I don’t really feel patriotic about it. I did jump up and cheer when he won Laguna Seca, and I loved his reaction afterwards, but I still have problems with his style. First, he’s a good old-fashioned varsity player. He’s studied and strong, devoted and consistent, all qualities that deserve champion status, but oh so boring to watch. There’s no emotion watching Nicky. You can just tell he’s working to win.

Rossi, on the other hand, is funny. And he’s a complete long shot nearly every race, so it’s exciting to see not if, but how and when he pulls out the win. And he dumps. And he doesn’t win. And he balls up his qualifying times, but he’s silly and goofy and adorable. He’s a joy to watch on the track — he’s athletic, colorful and artistic.

Does America have to win everything? I mean, it’s cool that Lance and that Amish dude smeared the Tour de France, but it’s sort of sad, too. They make the sport seem somehow less exotic. Same with football/soccer. I love soccer, I love American soccer players, but I love the passion between the English clubs and the intense geopolitical political blood that runs through African and Middle Eastern teams.

Besides, Valentino is a little brat. When he spits a little smoke around a turn, or holds two fingers behind his back for the guy he just passed, I love that he’s a seven-time world champion.

So imagine my surprise when the amazing and talented Lissa G. dropped by MotoPrimo today and exclaimed that she liked Nicky because “he’s just so much more playful,” or words to that effect. I think I scared her when I yelled at her, “No way, that’s exactly the reason he sucks, he’s such a stiff!”

Anyways, the truth of it is that I loathe the post-race interviews when Nicky’s on the podium. I tried to watch NASCAR for a couple of years before I finally turned away in disgust. Southern accents and bad English just creeps me out. I could listen to Loris and Dani and Valentino “um” and “er” their way through our language for hours.

It’s almost as unbearable as the American commentary compared with the continental coverage. It’s the only time I like listening to sports announcers.

So who do you like and why? When you’re finished, please close your book and put your head on your desk until everyone is done.