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Post by Graeme Mead on Jan 21, 2015 22:22:47 GMT 12
Wow, no pressure, but I love this sport, the people and the friendships I have made and you are right we need to produce the goods, on off and around the track. At Huntly and Rotorua I am spoiled with a great vantage point to call from, and I think tracks need to look at where they guys who call are placed. They need to see the action, we need a producer who does the music and the queues for music, and we need good gear. If we get that we also need to practise and prepare for what we do. it is "hard work" to call and talk for 4 hours week in week out. Yes its fun but its a role that can make or break a meeting. I'm not going to let this go and I will think of a plan that I can handle and manage. It may take some time. I will however give the Americans some due, they produce a great show no matter what it is. My question do we want to achieve that week in week out, or at least for the important shows that have the ability to draw a crowd that thirsts for information. Tracks also need to look at ways of getting good internet and speed so was can send a signal out, that is good and quick, and doesn't fail. We are going to put Speedway Live back in this week and see if we can get it working properly. If you want to have a look at just how busy we are, feel free to visit me in the box, there's never a dull moment. The next step is for me also take another step and lift my level and push myself to be better, as I think there is some left yet.
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srr
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Post by srr on Jan 21, 2015 23:16:44 GMT 12
very good idea. I don't know how many times ive sat in the crowd and had to explain to new comers how the night runs. I think a little bit of schooling for some future in every aspect of speedway cant be wrong. good on you for putting your hand up to do something positive for the sport. hope we don't have too many knockers in the keyboard racer section.
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Post by BarryB on Jan 22, 2015 7:40:21 GMT 12
I think the main thing anybody contemplating getting into this area of speedway needs to consider is; are you going to be able to keep your eye on the prize and deliver what the fans want and expect, especially at championship meetings - I have to admit it is extremely easy to lose sight of this and get distracted once you've started the night and are having fun.
You are there for them, those fans, and to provide a service to that paying public so as to not only inform, but enhance their speedway experience. You are not there to listen to your own voice. You are there to deliver information that they cannot obtain by themselves, explain how things work and what is happening at all times. If they understand what they are watching there is a much better chance they will enjoy their visit. And clubs need to make sure there are enough mics/voices on deck to do just that.
I somehow got roped into this game by storming the Huntly commentary box one night when Mal Sines was up there and short handed, and the information I needed on the embankment was not forthcoming (from the club to him, so therefore not to us). Mal convinced (was more like conned, but that's another story) me to help out some more, and really everything either of us has done since is to try and deliver what WE would want to know if it was US sitting in the stands. Simple format, but not always easy to get right.
Race formats need to be explained, grids, points, referees decisions, and the reason for any delays in results or the meeting itself. Dead air while information is outstanding is unacceptable.
At the NZ Stockcar Champs in Welly a few years back I did grids/points etc. 7 groups (from memory) of about 24 cars per group times three races each on the first night - thousands of bits of information with grids, placings, points, sub totals etc etc etc. As boring as watching paint dry, but important to many of the people present. How important? We did wonder before the meeting, so I had somebody in the crowd watching while I was reading out the grids for all 170-odd drivers for their 3 qualifying night heats. And yes, people were writing them all down (and clubs need to ensure they provide patrons the appropriate templates to write it all in too).
On a Demo Derby or Guy Fawkes type night I think commentators can ham it up somewhat, be a little more light hearted. The racing is superfluous to many of those present, and wall-to-wall info may turn them off even more. The top 3 in most races is more than enough. Speedway? Pffffffffffttttt. Bring on the Fireworks!!
But on a night where any SNZ title is being decided, or any other major promotion, a different mindset is required the moment each announcer turns on their individual microphone. A more knowledgeable crowd has paid to walk through those turnstiles, and they will not take kindly to being short-changed by those commanding the PA system. Don't fill the night with fluff if you don't know what's going on. You'd be better off shutting up - or better still, go and find out what's going on!!
And with interviewing, sometimes patrons want tougher questions asked, but you have to build up a relationship with these people over time, and develop a trust which is a two-way street. Sometimes the question you want to ask has to be skirted around, as you know you're going to want to interview that same person again the following weekend. Don't have a list of generic questions either, and don't ask questions that can be answered with just a yes or a no. Overall, most drivers today are a much better interview than they were 10-15 years ago. Thanks to the likes of Mal Sines, they are more used to it and have got much better at it, and this is to everybody's benefit.
Different commentators have different strengths too, and all can be utilised when putting together a commentary team for a major meeting. Some are great at generating excitement, some are great at race calling, while others are better at interviewing. Some love the commentary box, some the pits, others the infield. Some have technical expertise, others (like me) are totally inept in that area, whilst others have a very good knowledge of the rules. Trainspotters are sometimes helpful at big shows, and while having School C maths used to be beneficial we now have the ELS which is supposed to provide the micmen with such information. Play to your own strengths, and those of the others involved, when sorting out who is going to do what at a major show. It's no good having all excitement with no knowledge, or vice versa, coming across the airwaves.
Make use of the quiet time for results etc - that is the only time when people can hear you clearly and properly. I think all important results should be read out at least twice. Once as soon as you get them, a second time when it is nice and quiet.
Clubs don't need to replace their local team when hosting a major title either, but they should not be backwards in bringing in outside assistance and expertise either. This can add-to and enhance the local crew, especially in instances where drivers from the opposite Island might be expected to dominate. Also, some commentators are extremely good (knowledgeable) with specific classes, and their attendance at major events for such a class once again greatly enhances the experience of all those attending.
We've seen that on macgor's time and time again over the years. No thread on the commentary at a major meeting should usually be taken as complimentary. If there is a thread 99% of the time that's a bad thing. People, and discussion boards, tend to be like that.........
Barry B
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Post by midway on Jan 22, 2015 9:42:08 GMT 12
Golly Gosh, A sermon from a good preacher ,a man of great leisure ,many thanks for great advice ,Like Jimmy J ,we wont be venturing down that track ,even when there is cries for help ,from a certain individual who sits on a Springs board and screeches a sound un known to man kind .  |
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Post by BarryB on Jan 22, 2015 10:11:08 GMT 12
Golly Gosh, A sermon from a good preacher ,a man of great leisure ,many thanks for great advice ,Like Jimmy J ,we wont be venturing down that track ,even when there is cries for help ,from a certain individual who sits on a Springs board and screeches a sound un known to man kind . Well the question seems to be getting asked with greater regularity, so thought I might as well offer one man's threepence worth  Barry B |
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Post by boner87 on Jan 22, 2015 13:00:53 GMT 12
Sounds like a pretty spot on job description really. I just wish my local commentator would read this because it would help him. Many a night my friend and I have sat at speedway and shaken our heads at the calls, constant simple mistakes and the words I'm not sure what happened there and infeild reporter not having a clue either. We have always said that we could do a better job of this and maybe if some sort of programme came across like this it would give people with a passion for the sport and commentating on it to get a foot in the door??
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Post by BarryB on Jan 22, 2015 13:47:15 GMT 12
It does take a while boner87, as you have to build relationships with officials as well. Like drivers, if you criticise the officials unfairly they will not be so keen to help out next time either. That said, I have met officials who have put their hand up and admitted they stuffed up. They are only human, so it's obviously going to happen from time to time, and the honesty is always appreciated.
I thought they made one mistake World 240's weekend, with a car that I'm sure (we were all sure actually) was moving again before the red lights came on. As there was then a delay, Paul Hickey pointed out that the rule states if they "go red" the "prime cause" of the reds has to come off. I thought in that case the "prime cause" was the man on the button, and said so over the PA (probably not very tactfully either), I think suggesting the button pusher should be sent off instead of the driver....that is NOT good relationship building form!!
Barry B
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Post by Admin on Jan 22, 2015 14:08:54 GMT 12
It does take a while boner87, as you have to build relationships with officials as well. Like drivers, if you criticise the officials unfairly they will not be so keen to help out next time either. That said, I have met officials who have put their hand up and admitted they stuffed up. They are only human, so it's obviously going to happen from time to time, and the honesty is always appreciated. I thought they made one mistake World 240's weekend, with a car that I'm sure (we were all sure actually) was moving again before the red lights came on. As there was then a delay, Paul Hickey pointed out that the rule states if they "go red" the "prime cause" of the reds has to come off. I thought in that case the "prime cause" was the man on the button, and said so over the PA (probably not very tactfully either), I think suggesting the button pusher should be sent off instead of the driver....that is NOT good relationship building form!! Barry B I've raised this aspect with Rod before. When he decides a red is needed he first advises infield staff etc. over the radio so they are prepared. At that moment the process is started and there is no going back. A few seconds later the red light is actually turned on. There is a safety aspect as well as trying to keep an eye on cars to see if they stop in accordance with the rules. From where we are We don't see the few seconds delay just the red and cry when the car moves at the same moment. Roll the dice. If the drivers want to allow the cause of a red to restart in such circumstances as the 240's , suffice to say 'drivers make the rules' sort of. Not sure where the line would be drawn though, at least at the moment we sort of know. |
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Post by Deleted on Jan 22, 2015 14:24:28 GMT 12
Wow, no pressure, but I love this sport, the people and the friendships I have made and you are right we need to produce the goods, on off and around the track. At Huntly and Rotorua I am spoiled with a great vantage point to call from, and I think tracks need to look at where they guys who call are placed. They need to see the action, we need a producer who does the music and the queues for music, and we need good gear. If we get that we also need to practise and prepare for what we do. it is "hard work" to call and talk for 4 hours week in week out. Yes its fun but its a role that can make or break a meeting. I'm not going to let this go and I will think of a plan that I can handle and manage. It may take some time. I will however give the Americans some due, they produce a great show no matter what it is. My question do we want to achieve that week in week out, or at least for the important shows that have the ability to draw a crowd that thirsts for information. Tracks also need to look at ways of getting good internet and speed so was can send a signal out, that is good and quick, and doesn't fail. We are going to put Speedway Live back in this week and see if we can get it working properly. If you want to have a look at just how busy we are, feel free to visit me in the box, there's never a dull moment. The next step is for me also take another step and lift my level and push myself to be better, as I think there is some left yet. Having a producer is a great idea Mintie. Doesnt take much gear, and raises the level of professionalism....I think I know a guy. |
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Post by Deleted on Jan 22, 2015 15:58:08 GMT 12
Wow, no pressure, but I love this sport, the people and the friendships I have made and you are right we need to produce the goods, on off and around the track. At Huntly and Rotorua I am spoiled with a great vantage point to call from, and I think tracks need to look at where they guys who call are placed. They need to see the action, we need a producer who does the music and the queues for music, and we need good gear. If we get that we also need to practise and prepare for what we do. it is "hard work" to call and talk for 4 hours week in week out. Yes its fun but its a role that can make or break a meeting. I'm not going to let this go and I will think of a plan that I can handle and manage. It may take some time. I will however give the Americans some due, they produce a great show no matter what it is. My question do we want to achieve that week in week out, or at least for the important shows that have the ability to draw a crowd that thirsts for information. Tracks also need to look at ways of getting good internet and speed so was can send a signal out, that is good and quick, and doesn't fail. We are going to put Speedway Live back in this week and see if we can get it working properly. If you want to have a look at just how busy we are, feel free to visit me in the box, there's never a dull moment. The next step is for me also take another step and lift my level and push myself to be better, as I think there is some left yet. Having a producer is a great idea Mintie. Doesnt take much gear, and raises the level of professionalism....I think I know a guy. basically takes a good ear for music and an ability to blend mics and shift between music and announcers - something Im pretty familiar with, done it for years in various other events. Might just put my hand up now and see if they want a hand this weekend.... |
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Post by boner87 on Jan 22, 2015 19:09:51 GMT 12
It does take a while boner87, as you have to build relationships with officials as well. Like drivers, if you criticise the officials unfairly they will not be so keen to help out next time either. That said, I have met officials who have put their hand up and admitted they stuffed up. They are only human, so it's obviously going to happen from time to time, and the honesty is always appreciated. I thought they made one mistake World 240's weekend, with a car that I'm sure (we were all sure actually) was moving again before the red lights came on. As there was then a delay, Paul Hickey pointed out that the rule states if they "go red" the "prime cause" of the reds has to come off. I thought in that case the "prime cause" was the man on the button, and said so over the PA (probably not very tactfully either), I think suggesting the button pusher should be sent off instead of the driver....that is NOT good relationship building form!! Barry B Yes I understand that it's hard for anyone to be factual, unopinionated as well as "entertaining". This is why this would be a good idea for someone or a group to start. Raise the level of professionalism (not having a dig) in turn perhaps the once a year punter turns up two or three times. If the drivers and officials be come friendly then there is more ammo to keep Joe blogs down at the track. Still I'd definately give it a red hot go |
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Post by pinkmod89 on Jan 26, 2015 16:53:54 GMT 12
Well thoroughly enjoyed the commentating at Huntly over the weekend(not sure about Minties dayglo on Friday though, looked more like a lifepreserver from where I was sitting).
Barry did you manage to put some coins in the Pensioners Standard RX107 for the Cancer Society?
Oh and just a small bit of education for you guys, a turbo is referred to as a hairdryer due to shape and supercharger could be either a huffer or compressor.
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Post by BarryB on Jan 26, 2015 17:27:06 GMT 12
Well thoroughly enjoyed the commentating at Huntly over the weekend(not sure about Minties dayglo on Friday though, looked more like a lifepreserver from where I was sitting). Barry did you manage to put some coins in the Pensioners Standard RX107 for the Cancer Society? Oh and just a small bit of education for you guys, a turbo is referred to as a hairdryer due to shape and supercharger could be either a huffer or compressor. I hope Mintie reads that!!!! And thanks for the other info/education too. "Huffer". I like it. Old Blondie and his old huffer. I never got the money into the slot either - I've kept it in my Hi-Viz so as to make sure I've got it with me next time I see Blondie race. Child Cancer is one of the best causes there can be to donate too. Barry B |
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Post by Graeme Mead on Jan 26, 2015 17:35:45 GMT 12
Well thoroughly enjoyed the commentating at Huntly over the weekend(not sure about Minties dayglo on Friday though, looked more like a lifepreserver from where I was sitting). Barry did you manage to put some coins in the Pensioners Standard RX107 for the Cancer Society? Oh and just a small bit of education for you guys, a turbo is referred to as a hairdryer due to shape and supercharger could be either a huffer or compressor. I hope Mintie reads that!!!! And thanks for the other info/education too. "Huffer". I like it. Old Blondie and his old huffer. I never got the money into the slot either - I've kept it in my Hi-Viz so as to make sure I've got it with me next time I see Blondie race. Child Cancer is one of the best causes there can be to donate too. Barry B Bring on all the cheap shots, I was just making sure I was seen so I was safe |
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Post by pinkmod89 on Jan 26, 2015 18:00:38 GMT 12
At one stage Blondie did have a passenger seat in the Rover to take people for a ride after donation of course.
Apparently control board didn't like it unless they got a cut of what he made.
Missed out on photo of you Barry after you placed the cone of silence on offending object, where you were standing would have looked like you had an offending object haha.
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Post by Deleted on Jan 26, 2015 18:34:44 GMT 12
Great to hear the commentary was enjoyed on the weekend. I myself had a lot of fun and really enjoyed working for the first time with Barry and STM. and of course with mintie. Really look forward to working with STM And Barry again soon
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Post by tank11 on Jan 26, 2015 20:18:48 GMT 12
Great to hear the commentary was enjoyed on the weekend. I myself had a lot of fun and really enjoyed working for the first time with Barry and STM. and of course with mintie. Really look forward to working with STM And Barry again soon BUT not Mintie...................? |
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Post by Deleted on Jan 26, 2015 20:21:59 GMT 12
Haha I get to work with Mintie every weekend Huntly is on and it is awesome working with him each week
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Post by tank11 on Jan 26, 2015 20:36:34 GMT 12
Haha I get to work with Mintie every weekend Huntly is on and it is awesome working with him each week Just reading it as you wrote it ..................lol. Wait for the payback from Mintie.............haha |
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Post by Graeme Mead on Jan 26, 2015 20:56:17 GMT 12
Pup, will be paid back.........with interest.
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