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Originally Posted by v j stauffer
In my opinion Tom Durkin is the greatest announcer in horse racing history.
He has an amazing ability to caputre great moments in a way that combines great accuracy as if a reporter while thrilling us with great passion as if a fan.
He changed my profession from a public address medium to a television commentary that caused so many people to want to hear what he had to say next about the stars we love.
His clarity and description was what first made me take note. I used to sit in the paddock at Gulfstream Park and could absolutely know what was happening and perhaps more importantly what might happen each and every race.
When we hear that special intensity in his voice you know that you're listening to the most important racing in the world.
We all have our Durkin favorites.
" The two Derby winners hit the wire together"
" Sunday Silence braces for the oncoming power of Easy Goer"
" Mike Smith lets the Bull roll. But there's casue for Concern"
" A picture is worth a thousand words. This one is worth $5 million dollars"
" Bertrando is a stunned second"
" The unconquerable, invinceable, unbeatable Cigar!"
The bigger the stage the more he steps up and makes calls that are worthy of the moment.
Someone once said to me that I sound a little like Durkin. High praise indeed. The only reason I don't sound exactly like him is that I'm just not good enough.
Horse racing is the only major sport that doesn't honor it's announcers with HOF induction. I think that's a terrible oversight.
What would our memories be without Chic Anderson's " Moving like a tremendous machine"? Or Dave Johnson's " And down the stretch they come"?
Trevor's " They would have to sprout wings!" or Harry Henson's gravely voice saying "here comes Vigors the White Tornado".
Or even Cappy. " The horses are nearing the starting gate. The fan's make their way to the outer rail. That can mean but one thing!. IT IS NOW POST TIME!!"
What a gift from God that they let me go to the races everyday. And get paid to do it.
I should wear a mask when I pick up my paycheck.
Cheers.
VJS
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Although I appreciate a great call it's all about the race and the race horses for me Vic. Great calls require great races and "Sprouting Wings, it's post time, and down the stretch" aren't calls they are monikers and taglines of the callers which identify the race caller but do nothing to enhance a call.
I guess it's the difference between a Vin Scully and John Sterling.. To each his own.