Those who can, do; those who can't, talk about it.
I've always thought that commentators are a vital part of a sport's presentation. A bad one can make you change the channel, a good one can keep you engaged, even if the action is boring. One of the first books I can ever remember asking for at Christmas was Murray Walker's autobiography. I found it utterly fascinating - conscripted into World War II, Murray became an advertising executive (where he continued to work, long into his fame as a commentator) whilst following in his father's footsteps by racing motorcycles at weekends.
Murray commentated on his first race in 1948. He brought the same enthusiasm to his work, whether it was the Monaco Grand Prix in Formula 1, a rallycross meeting at Brands Hatch, a Formula Ford meeting at Donington Park or a touring car event at Oulton Park. His first double act partner was the mercurial James Hunt, and they did not always get on - "[James] sat, and [Murray] stood" as they shared the one microphone in the commentary box. But, they entertained millions. His second long standing partnership - with Martin Brundle - is the one for which I will best remember him. Martin stood alongside Murray in the commentary box, and their great partnership brought more fans into Formula One, including their work on the legendary Formula 1 '97 video game. All together now: "You're right there, Murray".
His humorous errors, dubbed "Murrayisms", further endeared him to fans: "With half the race gone, there is still half the race to go" among the highlights. But, his meticulous pre-race preparation and encyclopaedic knowledge of his craft meant he was held in high esteem by his colleagues and peers. I can barely remember what I did last week, but some lines of commentary have stuck with me for years. His was the dream job - travelling to motor races around the world, and being paid to talk about it.
I wouldn't be the fan of motor racing I am today if I didn't have Murray to guide me through it. He was the definitive voice of my childhood.
And I've got to stop, because I've got a lump in my throat.
#MurrayWalker • #RIP • #RIPMurrayWalker • #F1 • #FormulaOne • #Formula1 • #BTCC • #Motorsport
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