Lower time guys tend to do better in training because they are still in the training/absorbing information mindset. A guy right out of college TYPICALLY has much better study habits and tends to absorb information faster and retain it longer than a guy who has been out of college for 10 years. In addition, there is the "old dog, new tricks" cliche. If you have been flying an airplane a certain way for 10 years it is going to be a lot harder for you to change your habits and methods than it is for a lower time guy who is used to learning new techniques and methods.

Where lower time guys TEND to fall behind the old dogs is in the decision making arena. With experience, you are able to apply what you've seen in the past to new situations and make more educated, considered decisions. I am willing to bet the first time you saw ice on an airplane you freaked out a little bit but once you've seen an airplane continue to fly covered in ice and gotten out of the situation, you are more prepared to handle that situation when it arises again.