It's nothing new for sure, but to me, seat time is the most important aspect of a potentially successful formula if you are new to this game. More seat time usually does away w/the new (young OR old) racer's early driving mistakes. Seat time calms you down. Seat time gets you to KNOW your car. Seat time gives you EXPERIENCE, which breeds good luck, imo. Breakage and parts carnage?....well that's usually not luck, but something most all new race combo's go thru until the weaknesses in certain parts (or in the driver, ha) are found.... Exceptionally detailed racecar preparation also tends to create success in this sport, but a seasoned, calm driver w/ intelligent tree savvy still is the biggest factor in putting on your win light.....Just another 2.2 cents worth from a for-the-moment-retired (since '05) and racecar-less racer now intently watching from the peanut gallery.
WJ