Agreed.

Even if a pilot like this was hired at 21, he'd have to upgrade in 2 years. I did however hear of a few AA captains in their early to mid 30's with good timing and luck, but that was many years ago.

I'm a junior F/O in the latter half of my 40's and have no idea when or if I'll ever make captain (although if I make it to 65, I'd think I would). I threw away my crystal ball for being too murky, so it will be what it will be and you play the hand you get the best you can.