"I think also that with the growth of the automotive industry in the Chinese Mainland, we'll see increased interest from Chinese auto manufacturers in marketing through motor sports and auto sports."

(That's A1's big hint to Geely, China's fledgling automaker, to pony up for the next big race.)

As for the season finale -- I head straight to the finish line. The racing world's answer to Yao Ming has finished in... 16th place.

That's out of 22 teams.

Jiang Tengyi blames a last-minute car switch for his disappointing performance. But his fingers are crossed for more opportunities to test in the next year.

All he wants is another chance to hone his skills and edge closer to the ultimate prize -- becoming the hero of his homeland.