I awoke relatively late on Sunday morning and, as is customary, switched on my computer. News was beginning to filter through of Robert Kubica's rallying accident in Italy. Initially, there seemed to be little to worry about unduly, as it was indicated that the Pole had emerged largely unscathed. However, as the morning progressed, it became abundantly clear that those reports were inaccurate, and that Kubica had sustained serious, and potentially career-threatening, injuries.
The latest medical bulletins suggest that Robert will have to wait a little while to find out for sure whether the damage to his right arm and hand will curtail his career. Whether or not this is the case, this is a terrible blow to this richly talented driver who, given the right car and environment, is eminently capable of becoming World Champion. His performances in a largely mediocre Renault last season were very praiseworthy, and we looked set for more of the same in the forthcoming campaign.
It was heartening to see the Formula 1 fraternity, often accused of being a cold and clinical crowd, rallying round and offering Kubica its support.
The accident is sure to have repercussions for those F1 drivers who still like to compete in other motorsport disciplines, or indeed other hazardous sports in general. Team bosses may now look at tightening contracts, to minimise their chances of being deprived of drivers under these circumstances.
Just as we were coming to terms with the Kubica crash, news came through that guitar hero Gary Moore had passed away. I was always a big admirer of his expressive and fluid style, particularly in his solo work. A very sad loss.
Later in the evening my attention was fixed firmly on America's most lavish sporting event, the Super Bowl, between the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
This year, I chose to follow the game on Twitter, as well as via the television pictures. What struck me particularly was the lack of knowledge, with a few notable exceptions, of the Brits on Twitter, and the amusingly cynical attitude of some Americans.
It is often remarked that the American sense of humour is different to that of the British. However, last night I discovered to my delight that Americans can display as much irony and sarcasm as we across the pond. Their disdain seemed reserved particularly for the pre-game build-up and formalities, the TV adverts and the hallf-time show. They just wanted to get on with the game!
Ah, yes, the game itself. I picked the Green Bay Packers as my team beforehand, for no particular reason, and was therefore delighted when they emerged triumphant, although only after a pugnacious fightback by the Steelers.
That's all for now, and best wishes to Robert Kubica.
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