If you really pay attention to a racing season you will most like likely see some common patterns. Often at the beginning of the year there are more than a few guys who are faster than they were at the end of the previous year. After talking with them you will normally find out that they either got a new car and parts or stripped the older car and had it checked and upgraded the parts. As the season wears along, you will see guys who were once strong starting to fade. Maybe a crash or two and normal wear and tear. Some guys will maybe take time off in the middle of the year around sprint week to freshen the car and they become fast again. Some guys aren't fast until the next year.

Is it a case of money problems or lack of taking car of the equipment, lack of time, or lack of knowledge; I'm not sure. My point is that you can have the best of everything or older equipment, but the key is to take care of what you have, learn about what you have and to take proper care of what you have and you will be way ahead of the game. The old saying is the best saying: Races are won in the garage.