Hamilton out to redouble his efforts
AN older, wiser Lewis Hamilton will start the new Formula One season with even greater desire to win motorsport's greatest prize.
Hamilton missed out on becoming world champion last season by a point after leading the standings from the Canadian Grand Prix in June through to the final race in Brazil. At Interlagos, a gearbox malfunction robbed Hamilton of the chance of becoming the first rookie in the sport's history to take the title, but it has only made him more determined.
"This year, I feel more at home, more confident and more relaxed, and even more sure of what I want," said Hamilton, who celebrated his 23rd birthday on Monday.
Despite the succession of problems experienced by McLaren last year, there has been no winter of discontent within the Woking-based marque.
Instead, the team rolled out their 2008 challenger in Stuttgart, the home of engine suppliers Mercedes.
There certainly appeared a steely glint in Hamilton's eye as he again spoke with maturity and authority, counting down towards the opening grand prix in Australia on March 16.
"I wouldn't say that what happened last year was a blow, but you wouldn't be human if you didn't feel anything," said Hamilton. "But I've recovered from it and I feel even stronger, mentally and physically, and now I'm just excited and even more determined than I have been in the past.
"Perhaps the experience of last year has encouraged that because it was a steep learning curve. But, if anything, I just grew up, as a person and as a driver, and that was the aim. With any experience, good or bad, you learn from it and then look forward.
"I knew what I wanted last year, but it was having that desire and not really knowing how to fill the shoes 100 per cent - if you know what I mean."
6:40pm Monday 7th January 2008
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