I am sure he understands that but he still has hope and has decided to be positive instead of fretting about his chances.I think there are too many people in the pool to get there by Christmas. However, he will get there with patience.
I am the last person who will kill anyone's hope by telling them to be realistic. There's so much negativity and impatience in this world that people like him inspire me to always keep my chin up and work towards my goal instead of worrying about things not in my control.