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First off welcome Craig.
I watched and listened to Hard Given’s race. I don’t envy you the task of commentatiing and realise it must be very difficult at times.
While watching the race and not knowing the result I could see from a long way out there was only going to be one winner but had I just been listening I wouldn’t have had a clue what was going to win.
I don’t know if your work is double broadcast like it is here eg Sporting Life racing and Chanel 4 commentries are the same.
I would imagine it’s difficult to realy the correct names and positions including didtances between each horse and keep and eye out what is actually happening in the race but I would suggest you try and put your own thoughts on how well you think a horse is going during your commentries.
Perhaps you can tell us if their are restrictions put on you by the producer or do you find it difficult at this stage of your career to watch and read at the same time?
Hi Fist of Fury!
The race you listened to was actually the first commentary I had done in 14 years! As it was my test for another job (which I got!) I decided not to do too much in the way of editorializing in case something unexpected happened. Generally, we are not encouraged to offer our thoughts. Though I certainly feel a lot more comfy doing so, now I am somewhat more established. I often mention in running, for example if a horse likes to be covered up, make the pace, etc. The race you heard had a lot on it for me, and to say the least I was rusty, so I played it safe on this occasion. I have no problem saying if a horse is out-classed, running poorly, etc.
You made some very perceptive comments. I am definitely working on painting an all together greater picture in my calls.
We are generally double or more often triple broadcast.
Many thanks for your comments. I will take what you say and see if I can work some of the wisdom you offer into my calls.
Cheers,
Craig
Good stuff Craig. Have you considered becoming the first snake handling commentator?
We already have them…They are known as "Church Preachers!"
Craig
Craig, I’ve just noticed you’re from WV. I went to Charles Town races one Sunday in 2004 and had a wonderful day out.
The viewing (which reminded me of Belle Vue in Manchester), the tight track, the type of racing (four furlong sprints on a track the size of a great big frying pan), the crowd (free entry helps that kind of thing) and the friendliness of the people. Loved it, apart from everyone thinking I was Australian or Scottish. Superb scenery around the Ferry too on the drive there. I’ve gone all nostalgic.
Best of luck.
Maxilon:
Charles Town is nearly six hours from where I live but as you say the surrounding countryside is beautiful.
Alas, I get asked every day if I am Australian or South African…as well as Did I know Princess Diana, and as we are in the Bible Belt and Appalachia, Have I been saved together with numerous invites to snake handling churches and such…
Cheers,
Craig.
Hi Craig – welcome to the forum.
TYVM, Back in chat people…if anyone wants to pop by.
Craig
Welcome to the forum Craig. Presque Isle is shown regularly on ATR Stateside over here so let us know when you’re on the bins.
I narrowly missed out on the permanent job at Presque Isle Downs a few weeks ago to a far more experienced commentator. But as I work at a sister track of Presque Isle, and I have the feeling the job will be open in 2009, I will be going for it.
Cheers,
Craig
Very good mate enjoyed your commentary!!!!
You would be good on the all weather circut over here,but i would imagine its ”jobs for the boys” over here
Hope it works out for you
My roots are now firmly in the USA, wife, family, house, etc. But I still have some family in the UK. I would love to come back for a visit and do some calling, a busman’s holiday, so to speak.
Have no idea how the system works in the UK, now. But I do know which commentators I like and dislike…but doesn’t everyone!
Craig
