If you dream of starring in the commentary box at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) rather than in the arena, a competition to find a “new equestrian voice” could give you your big break.
Do you have the perfect “tone and personality” to commentate at HOYS and the British Open? Are you an admirer of Mike Tucker and Nick Brooks-Ward?
If so, you could find yourself commentating at both events, thanks to the Grandstand Group, organiser of the shows.
“There are not many opportunities for potential commentators to voice their talent. Our last commentary competition was in 2003 and we felt it was about time we ran it again,” said Helena Pettit, managing director of Grandstand.
To enter, people should record a 15-second clip of themselves talking about anything equestrian-related.
Of the 15 “voices” shortlisted, three finalists will be selected to commentate live at the British Open on Wednesday, 7 April.
The winner will be part of the official HOYS commentary team this autumn and receive a £500 voice-training bursary.
“There are lots of people out there doing a very good job. We always want fresh voices — it sets new standards and keeps people on their toes,” Mike Tucker told H&H.
“It’s key for people to know their sport and they need to make it interesting — the actual use of the voice is very important.”
• Enter by 3 February at www.hoys.co.uk
This article was first published in Horse & Hound (28 January, ’10)
