Long time lurker, not much of a poster here. Wanted to say good job on the scoring system. I think it's pretty accurate and should come close to predicting the final racers. I have one comment though about the two asian brothers. I'm not sure if I would have given them the point for intelligences after seeing the first episode. Here's why:
I would say one of the most important things racers have control over is what they pack. It should be minimilist at best. Every gram and cubic millimeter is critical. So what do the boy wonders decide is importent enough to carry around the world? Squirt guns. And not only that, but they got them out and were shooting people in the AIRPORT!!!! Even pre 9-11 that would have been grounds for a long day of interigation with the feds. I'm guessing without the cameras and CBS crew greasing the skids prior to everyone getting to the airport, those guys would not have gotten on any plane, much less the one they need to stay in the race.
Keep up the good analysis. I may not be posting, but I'll be paying attention.
I hope there are no betting spoilers this season. For some reason it's not as good to 'know' who is going to win as it is to speculate scientifically.