Making things happen

n January 1995 I somehow ended up forming part of a commentary squad for the Pukekohe round of the international racing series. The arrangement provided for two squad members to share the microphone at a time. I recall being initially partnered with Ron Frost for a Formula Ford race. Later in the day I was paired with Brian Lawrence for a Tranz-Am race that brought together the cream of Australasian tin-top chauffeurs. BL, as is the case with all four Lawrence brothers, was immaculately turned out and produced a masterclass of race calling. It was an exciting race but Brian thoroughly enhanced it and his performance that day has stuck in my mind all these years. I’ve sat alongside most of the best-known callers since, in commentary boxes on both sides of the Tasman. While I couldn’t say BL