Can you imagine watching a soccer match without the ongoing commentary or an event such as Cheltenham without the racing announcers? They’re something that we’re all used to hearing when watching sporting events and would likely choose not to be without! You might assume that in order that horse racing and soccer commentators have nothing in common, but when you look into things more deeply, you’ll find plenty of common ground.
Passionate Fans
Both horse racing and soccer have their own passionate fans and these supporters are not likely to go anywhere soon. Peter Drury and Richard Hoiles recently got together thanks to Betway Insider to discuss all things commentary for their own sports. One thing they both talked about was the feeling they get when spectators start to enter the venue and they can feel things starting to heat up ready to get started. Whether it’s those that show their support by visiting horse racing betting sites or those that can attend the event in person; both commentators agreed that the fans really did make a difference.
A Need For Speed
Both sports are fast paced, where anything could change within the blink of an eye. They talked in the video about how they need to be able to quickly identify people and share information in a clear way – after all many fans will be relying on this commentary to be able to follow along with the game.
Knowledge of the Whole Industry
As well as being able to share information quickly, it is something that needs to be accurate. For example, Richard Hoiles talked about needing to learn the names of up to 90 different horses for an event such as Cheltenham and being able to announce all of the relevant details when a particular horse wins – which he needs to do within seconds of a horse and jockey crossing a finish line! Being able to add in information regarding the past performance of any players or horses is essential too; without detracting from announcing what is happening there and then.
An Eye For Detail
In order to be able to quickly commentate on what is happening and do so accurately, commentators and announcers need to have a good eye for details. They need to be able to spot which player just scored the goal or which horse is out in front – Peter Drury talked about recognizing Ronaldo from just his bright red trainers during a match once, which is something he had spotted and paid attention to when the players were entering the pitch - a prime example of needing to pay attention to everything and how it can improve the commentary that you’re putting out there.
The two sports might be different, but those involved in either industry at any level will tell you the hard work and dedication that goes into being able to be involved. Whether you’re a trainer, a manager, a commentator, a jockey or a goalie hard work is needed to be successful and it is that which the two sporting industries have in common.
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