Quick Fire Q & A with Irish Racing Commentator Jerry Hannon
January 4, 2021 | Niamh Byrne
- Did you always have an interest in racing?
Only every September when the Listowel Harvest Festival came round!
- Did you always want to be a racing commentator? How did you get into race commentary?
No, a racing photographer! Via party pieces (Foinavon ’67) in local pubs & clubs!
- Can you remember your first race to commentate?
My first race to commentate was at the Athea Pony Races 17th October 1999, I was 18!
- Do you study the races / horse names before each meeting so you don’t make any mistakes?
All on the day itself, race by race.
- Favourite ever race to call?
The Irish Champion Stakes never fails to disappoint.
- Favourite race track?
I do have a soft spot for Naas!
- Favourite racehorse of all time?
Oh, Istabraq!
- Horse to follow this year?
Chacun Pour Soi to go unbeaten in 2021.
- What races are hardest to call?
Those with multiple Gigginstown & J P McManus owned runners!
- If you could commentate for any other sport what would you pick?
Would you believe Snooker!
