Once again, Bob, you have a way with words.
I couldn't agree more with what you are saying here. Consistency is something I always strive for. I am not the fastest guy at my local tracks, but often, being consistent allows me to win. Some guys focus only on having the fastest lap, but can't string them together.
There is a quote Eric D. (The Darkside) told me... it goes "To finish first, first you must finish." It's something I try and get across to new racers as they seem to all have the "I need more HP" mentality. It's hard to tell them to go fast, first they must slow down.