retired_kikiiscwazy

Ultimately I don't think the fact that he didn't win the title really detracts from his achievements. First year in F1, admittedly in a good car, finishing on the podium in his first however many races it was, getting pole positions and several wins...I just think that is enough, despite the fact that he was in a top car etc.

retired_txanya

Being strong enough to push Alonso out of the team is huge imo

retired_nini59

give it to Mascherano then?

retired_sandra

Calzaghe, Hatton or Toseland should win, but everybody knows it's going to be Hamilton.

retired_drumcook

Wondering how many of the people bigging up Toseland's achievements would have been able to correctly answer the question 'name the 2007 World Superbikes Champion' prior to opening this thread?

retired_kevh16

Don't get me wrong I do think its a fantastic achievement. But in my opinion the winners should be:
a) One of the best in the world in their field
b) Have won/played a key part in winning something substantial.

Recent winners (past 10 years) of the BBC Sports Personality award who meet my criteria:
Lennox Lewis,
Steve Redgrave,
Paula Radcliffe,
Kelly Holmes,
Andrew Flintoff,
Jonny Wilkinson (should have gone to Martin Johnson though imo)

Recent winners (past 10 years) of the BBC Sports Personality award who do not meet my criteria:
Greg Rusedski,
Michael Owen,
David Beckham,
Zara Phillips (on account of horse riding not counting)

Lewis Hamilton would fit right into the second category. Ricky Hatton if he were to win next weekend would fit into the first category.

retired_kikiiscwazy

I think that criteria is a bit harsh really but fair enough.

Owen and Beckham I thought fully deserved their awards as well to be honest.

retired_barbara45

I'd say quite a lot actually tbh.

retired_sandra

It's harsh on Zara Phillips, who was the reigning European & World Champion in eventing.

hanouda

Toseland Come back when you're Moto GP champ son.