JA was way better than JL. JL has no energy and no knowledge. He is bland. Also JL doesn't seem to get along with Brundle, which unfortunately drags Brundle's performance down.
Full Version: The BBC F1 Coverage Thread (merged)
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QUOTE (Muz Bee @ May 25 2009, 09:47) 
"Fundamentally" - hmmm. Essentially or primarily - Collins English. No I don't understand either. I understand that - in your opinion - Legard is bad. I can understand you may find him boring or repetitive or something else "bad". But "fundamentally bad", me sahib, I not understando boyo.
I guess fundamentally Murray Walker was a bad commentator. He used to repeatedly get it wrong. He used to often assume the win was assured (when it wasn't!). He used to be famous for his "Murrayisms" and was "fundamentally bad" but after a while we would, most of us, just giggle and wait for James or, later, Martin to correct him, usually with a smile on their voice! But Legard can't be specifically accused of the sort of transgressions of our dearly departed.
Not being British (or European) I haven't heard Legard before but he seems to have at least a rudimentary knowledge of what F1 is about (his role is "anchor" after all!) At least he hasn't descended to the level of silliness of his predecessor "Cock" who really lived up to his nickname. I don't know whether Brundle has a conflict with Legard or not but he has rather gone off the ball lately, making some uncharacteristicly poor assumptions. Eddie, delightful Irishman that he is needs to be given a couple more GPs to shape up or get the flick. He seems to have spent most of the time since he sold Jordan F1 drinking the favourite beverage of his nation continuously - such is the level of his contributions. His arguments with DC are cringeworthy. All up - BBC, more than a pass mark, still room for improvement. I have some of the answers if you wish to contact me privately Mr Beeb!
I guess fundamentally Murray Walker was a bad commentator. He used to repeatedly get it wrong. He used to often assume the win was assured (when it wasn't!). He used to be famous for his "Murrayisms" and was "fundamentally bad" but after a while we would, most of us, just giggle and wait for James or, later, Martin to correct him, usually with a smile on their voice! But Legard can't be specifically accused of the sort of transgressions of our dearly departed.
Not being British (or European) I haven't heard Legard before but he seems to have at least a rudimentary knowledge of what F1 is about (his role is "anchor" after all!) At least he hasn't descended to the level of silliness of his predecessor "Cock" who really lived up to his nickname. I don't know whether Brundle has a conflict with Legard or not but he has rather gone off the ball lately, making some uncharacteristicly poor assumptions. Eddie, delightful Irishman that he is needs to be given a couple more GPs to shape up or get the flick. He seems to have spent most of the time since he sold Jordan F1 drinking the favourite beverage of his nation continuously - such is the level of his contributions. His arguments with DC are cringeworthy. All up - BBC, more than a pass mark, still room for improvement. I have some of the answers if you wish to contact me privately Mr Beeb!
When Walker made a mistake most of the time the viewer could understand it afterwards and forgive him. He was warm and likable, enthusiastic and just generally entertaining to listen to.
When I hear Legard I hear a cold, robotic voice telling me what I can see with my own eyes, I hear no enthusiasm except for all the wrong occasions. I hear him ask Brundle a question then talk over the top of him when he tries to answer. Legard's role should not be seen as the anchor, instead, he should actually be supplementing Brundle's race analysis with confirmation and tension-building. Even JA could do this last part. Can you imagine Raikkonen crossing the pit lane at Nurburgring in 2007 being as exciting with Legard on it? For me that was one of the first really wet races I saw and I was amazed by the drama of it all.
Had Legard been commentating on it we'd have had "oooh! dear! that's not very good! oop, 'allo? oh no. oh dear, that's not what he wanted."
Legard also has the most incredible ability to ruin Martin Brundle. This year it feels like Brundle's lost all passion for what he's seeing on track, except for a few brief glimpses when he realises "Wow, this idiot's not saying anything! Better get my contribution in!" and gets into a head of steam. Legard's been bragging recently in a TV guide saying he has "7 years as a motorsport correspondent" by working on 5live to do F1.. And he clearly can't see or understand the race in front of him.
David Croft and Anthony Davidson are fantastic, but it'd be sad to get rid of Brundle (if he regained his enthusiasm and general brilliance).
In race analysis is missing from the coverage. for example neither commentator read Rosberg's race strategy (although they did comment on Alonso's half and half plan) when even occasional watchers like my friends recognised that he was going to stop again really lat into the race.
Oh well... "up the hill he goes, down that hill he goes" Legard doesn't seem to mind, and to be honest neither do I; that much. Really commentary is additional to the visuals when the coverage is good. We only need better work from the booth when the local director is not following the race; and that, IIRC, tends to be a much rarer occasion than it used to be.
Oh well... "up the hill he goes, down that hill he goes" Legard doesn't seem to mind, and to be honest neither do I; that much. Really commentary is additional to the visuals when the coverage is good. We only need better work from the booth when the local director is not following the race; and that, IIRC, tends to be a much rarer occasion than it used to be.
QUOTE (potmotr @ May 24 2009, 12:12)
OK, this retro opening sequence with Jake is really, really cool!
Well for me that was the best intro to a GP prog in the world....ever
Well done BBC
I thought the Monaco coverage overall was very good.
The retro introduction was first class - very well done with such attention to detail.
I just hope they do it again for Silverstone and Monza. There are so many other drivers that Jake could "interview"
As for Jake, for such a young guy, he is excellent - an inspired and courageous choice by the production team but the ongoing rancour between Jordan and DC is becoming increasingly obvious - this weekend was a classic. EJ is such an annoying little s**t isn't he ?
But once again the only real problem was JL.
I was never that unhappy with James Allen - he's knowledgeable, intelligent and F1 is his life - I just wish the BBC would agree to bring him back.
To save face there must be a sport with some sort of spherical object they could move JL too.
How about it BBC ?
The retro introduction was first class - very well done with such attention to detail.
I just hope they do it again for Silverstone and Monza. There are so many other drivers that Jake could "interview"
As for Jake, for such a young guy, he is excellent - an inspired and courageous choice by the production team but the ongoing rancour between Jordan and DC is becoming increasingly obvious - this weekend was a classic. EJ is such an annoying little s**t isn't he ?
But once again the only real problem was JL.
I was never that unhappy with James Allen - he's knowledgeable, intelligent and F1 is his life - I just wish the BBC would agree to bring him back.
To save face there must be a sport with some sort of spherical object they could move JL too.
How about it BBC ?
Jake impresses me more and more with each event. The Beeb really did well with the intro :inserts hats off smiley: some many faces from the past
You know, i dont think in all the comments ive read since the start of the season, ive heard anybody say how great Legard is. Only that he is better than Allen, which is debatable and not relevant imo.
Think the only person ive heard say anything good about him is Jb, but hes a BBC man, so that doesnt count. (hello Jb
)
Think the only person ive heard say anything good about him is Jb, but hes a BBC man, so that doesnt count. (hello Jb
)
QUOTE
You know, i dont think in all the comments ive read since the start of the season, ive heard anybody say how great Legard is.
You're right. Most of us can list a number of things that are wrong, but the people who like or don't mind him never come with reasons why he's good. Which is why we just get comments like
QUOTE
He's not nearly as annoying as your harping.
QUOTE (Ross Stonefeld @ May 25 2009, 05:10)
He's not nearly as annoying as your harping.
As bad as the harping is, it's not anywhere near as annoying as Legard.
I accidentally switched the commentary to R5 live during the race and I was amazed how good it was. I didn't think that radio commentary would suit visuals but you would never have known it was radio commentary at all. In fact, Legard's performance sounds more like radio commentary.
If it weren't for Brundle, I would be on the R5 commentary immediately. Even CBBC is better than Legard.
Legard has to go, this cannot go on.
If it weren't for Brundle, I would be on the R5 commentary immediately. Even CBBC is better than Legard.
Legard has to go, this cannot go on.
Unfortunately as I couldn't watch the race live I was unable to listen to the excellent David Croft and Anthony Davidson for Monaco and so was forced to give Legard another change. As has been pointed out in this thread he is monotonous and does not provide any insight whatsoever. Maybe it's that Crofty is so good but I really think Legard is nowhere near the quality of him or even James Allen.
I thought maybe it was me being impatient regarding someone 'new' at the Australian GP but it's clear to me he has got no better.
I thought maybe it was me being impatient regarding someone 'new' at the Australian GP but it's clear to me he has got no better.
QUOTE (Alexis*27 @ May 25 2009, 21:08)
You're right. Most of us can list a number of things that are wrong, but the people who like or don't mind him never come with reasons why he's good. Which is why we just get comments like
Pretty sure I've given reasons why he is an improvement on Allen (not hard).
QUOTE (kar @ May 25 2009, 21:22)
As bad as the harping is, it's not anywhere near as annoying as Legard.
Am inclined to disagree.
If you haven't had the pain of listening to Australian commentators for the Australian GP a few years back, you don't know how good you have got it now with Brundle and Legard. I don't find Legard as bad as the complaints here to be totally honest.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport...one/8065189.stm
Stunning. I was sceptical of this Jake fella but my word is he a top bloke! Well done lad!
Stunning. I was sceptical of this Jake fella but my word is he a top bloke! Well done lad!
Eddie Jordan after qualifying "With KERS, Raikkonen will definitely lead around into the first corner, there's no doubt about that."
Why can't they employ somebody who knows what he's talking about instead? Mike Gascoyne was way better when they give him a chance.
Why can't they employ somebody who knows what he's talking about instead? Mike Gascoyne was way better when they give him a chance.
QUOTE
f you haven't had the pain of listening to Australian commentators for the Australian GP a few years back, you don't know how good you have got it now with Brundle and Legard. I don't find Legard as bad as the complaints here to be totally honest.
Sounds like you're used to the abysmal, and the awful seems brilliant in comparison!
QUOTE
Pretty sure I've given reasons why he is an improvement on Allen (not hard).
Got a link? Legard being not as bad as the guy before doesn't explain why you think he's a good commentator though does it?
QUOTE (kar @ May 25 2009, 20:22)
As bad as the harping is, it's not anywhere near as annoying as Legard.
I like Legard. I like his dry humour. I like his gravitas. I like the fact he keeps things bubbling along in an unobtrusive way, much like a football commentator. He may not have the nerdy mountain of facts James had, but he doesn't need it. I think the BEEB have made a great choice.
QUOTE (Ross Stonefeld @ May 25 2009, 05:10)
He's not nearly as annoying as your harping.
Irony fail.
QUOTE (potmotr @ May 26 2009, 09:52)
I like Legard. I like his dry humour. I like his gravitas. I like the fact he keeps things bubbling along in an unobtrusive way, much like a football commentator. He may not have the nerdy mountain of facts James had, but he doesn't need it. I think the BEEB have made a great choice.
I'm not a big football fan but to this day, I have only ever heard 1 football commentator that actually sounds interesting and worth listening to : Alan Green for 5 live.
I don't think Legard has any humour or any gravitas whatsoever.. And I don't think he keeps things bubbling along, either. He either SHOUTS AT SOMETHING ABOUT NOTHING, whispers when someone crashes or, for quite a lot of the time, goes silent.
QUOTE (djellison @ May 26 2009, 10:00)
Irony fail.
What, your own?
To be honest just the use of the word fail needs to be ended. It is all one epic uber (insert other meme) fail.
QUOTE (Ross Stonefeld @ May 25 2009, 05:10)
He's not nearly as annoying as your harping.
Hear, hear!
QUOTE (Ross Stonefeld @ May 26 2009, 10:38)
What, your own?
You do nothing but bitch about people in this place...then have the audacity to bitch about someones bitching. And now....you're bitching about it.
Thankfully, this board has an ignore list.
QUOTE (Don_Humpador @ May 26 2009, 09:07)
I don't think Legard has any humour or any gravitas whatsoever.. And I don't think he keeps things bubbling along, either. He either SHOUTS AT SOMETHING ABOUT NOTHING, whispers when someone crashes or, for quite a lot of the time, goes silent.
It is weird isn't it. Such a subjective thing. After Monaco I realised that I'd not actually noticed Legard at all but the passage through the race was very enjoyable.
That, for me, is the mark of a great commentator - someone who guides you through the event in a way which doens't grate, then hands to Martin for the analysis.
Anyway, I'm sure I'll get shot down! To each his own though.
QUOTE (Muz Bee @ May 25 2009, 09:47)
"Fundamentally" - hmmm. Essentially or primarily - Collins English. No I don't understand either. I understand that - in your opinion - Legard is bad. I can understand you may find him boring or repetitive or something else "bad". But "fundamentally bad", me sahib, I not understando boyo.
I guess fundamentally Murray Walker was a bad commentator. He used to repeatedly get it wrong. He used to often assume the win was assured (when it wasn't!). He used to be famous for his "Murrayisms" and was "fundamentally bad" but after a while we would, most of us, just giggle and wait for James or, later, Martin to correct him, usually with a smile on their voice! But Legard can't be specifically accused of the sort of transgressions of our dearly departed.
Not being British (or European) I haven't heard Legard before but he seems to have at least a rudimentary knowledge of what F1 is about (his role is "anchor" after all!) At least he hasn't descended to the level of silliness of his predecessor "Cock" who really lived up to his nickname. I don't know whether Brundle has a conflict with Legard or not but he has rather gone off the ball lately, making some uncharacteristicly poor assumptions. Eddie, delightful Irishman that he is needs to be given a couple more GPs to shape up or get the flick. He seems to have spent most of the time since he sold Jordan F1 drinking the favourite beverage of his nation continuously - such is the level of his contributions. His arguments with DC are cringeworthy. All up - BBC, more than a pass mark, still room for improvement. I have some of the answers if you wish to contact me privately Mr Beeb!
I guess fundamentally Murray Walker was a bad commentator. He used to repeatedly get it wrong. He used to often assume the win was assured (when it wasn't!). He used to be famous for his "Murrayisms" and was "fundamentally bad" but after a while we would, most of us, just giggle and wait for James or, later, Martin to correct him, usually with a smile on their voice! But Legard can't be specifically accused of the sort of transgressions of our dearly departed.
Not being British (or European) I haven't heard Legard before but he seems to have at least a rudimentary knowledge of what F1 is about (his role is "anchor" after all!) At least he hasn't descended to the level of silliness of his predecessor "Cock" who really lived up to his nickname. I don't know whether Brundle has a conflict with Legard or not but he has rather gone off the ball lately, making some uncharacteristicly poor assumptions. Eddie, delightful Irishman that he is needs to be given a couple more GPs to shape up or get the flick. He seems to have spent most of the time since he sold Jordan F1 drinking the favourite beverage of his nation continuously - such is the level of his contributions. His arguments with DC are cringeworthy. All up - BBC, more than a pass mark, still room for improvement. I have some of the answers if you wish to contact me privately Mr Beeb!
for the record, I didn't like Murray Walker either. when nothing was happening (which was most of the time) he was boring and repetitive and usually had nothing insightful to say.
QUOTE (djellison @ May 26 2009, 10:58)
You do nothing but bitch about people in this place...then have the audacity to bitch about someones bitching. And now....you're bitching about it.
Thankfully, this board has an ignore list.
Thankfully, this board has an ignore list.
So use it? You are aware of its existence but like everything else you lack comprehension. You spot irony but fail to understand you're doing what you accuse me of. You take every chance you can get to have a pop at me. It might be useful if you were anywhere near the target. From the beginning of this thread I've warned people against getting their hopes too high about the BBC. It's not a utopia and it was ultimately going to disappoint some people. As predicted it's neither as fantastic as some hoped nor as bad as some are currently complaining about.
The problem with the Legard bashing is that there is nothing new to it. Newsflash for everyone following this thread, he's going to be the announcer all year long. Complaing every weekend isn't going to change that. Complaining about it in between races when he's not even speaking isn't going to help either, and is just annoying. This is the commentator we have. You're aware of it, you're aware of alternative commentary feeds. Use them or use the main one, but if you do learn to ignore Legard or live with it, because it's not changing soon and the whinging is just pissing everyone else off.
QUOTE (Ross Stonefeld @ May 26 2009, 11:05)
It might be useful if you were anywhere near the target. ....... This is the commentator we have. You're aware of it, you're aware of alternative commentary feeds. Use them or use the main one, but if you do learn to ignore Legard or live with it, because it's not changing soon and the whinging is just pissing everyone else off.
Indeed Ross, it would be useful if you were anywhere near the target. But you're not.
I have, several times, stated that all I wanted was no adverts, and no James Allen - my expectations were simple, moderate and realistic. So your criticism there is misplaced. I got that and LOTS more, and I am happy with the F1 coverage, including Legard. So your criticism there is ALSO misplaced.
Your sole purpose in visiting this place is to disagree with people. And believe me, if I took every opportunity to take a pop at you...well, there are not enough hours in the day Ross. You are an embarrassment to Autosport.
I'm not Autosport , I'm Ross Stonefeld, as you are so fond of analysing. And if you'd learn to read instead of skim you wouldn't have near as many difficulties with accurate accounting. You constantly attribute me all encompassing statements which I have not made. I didn't say everyone would like the BBC nor did I say everyone would dislike it. It would fall somewhere in the middle as everything inevitably does. You are completely fine with it, Alexis*27 clearly isn't.
Hope you enjoy proving my point
Hope you enjoy proving my point
QUOTE
The problem with the Legard bashing is that there is nothing new to it. Newsflash for everyone following this thread, he's going to be the announcer all year long. Complaing every weekend isn't going to change that. Complaining about it in between races when he's not even speaking isn't going to help either, and is just annoying. This is the commentator we have. You're aware of it, you're aware of alternative commentary feeds. Use them or use the main one, but if you do learn to ignore Legard or live with it, because it's not changing soon and the whinging is just pissing everyone else off.
Some points:
• People like giving their opinions. That's the whole point of this board. Just because the vast majority of those opinions are negative, doesn't degrade the conversation.
• People who don't like the negative opinions should perhaps not contribute and find a thread they're more comfortable with. I thought JA was a great commentator, but most people didn't. I just left them to it. Maybe some people on here should follow suit.
• The majority of people don't like Legard's commentary. They want him to be replaced. Now he's probably on a contract, so we ARE stuck with him for the rest of the year. But if people want him out, staying quiet isn't going to achieve this. The complaints will run and run all season anyway. And that's the only way he's going to be replaced - by people voicing their opinions.
• Yes there is other commentary. But listening to Croft and comparing to Legard is merely one talking point amongst many.
But these aren't talking points, you're a broken record. And this isn't the BBC, this is Autosport. Send complaints to the BBC and if it makes you feel better keep pasting their standardised replies.
Im not a fan of Legard, but i cant really be bothered to waste to much energy tell everyone about it, if Legard is the worse part of the BBC have F1, im more than happy
Actually one thing i dont understand, why does Mckenzie get so much stick? shes does alright imo
QUOTE
But these aren't talking points, you're a broken record. And this isn't the BBC, this is Autosport. Send complaints to the BBC and if it makes you feel better keep pasting their standardised replies.
See what happens when you try to have a serious conversation with this guy?
Alexis*27, why is it that when you quote people in this thread your quote box is missing the persons name? Are you removing it?
QUOTE (Alexis*27 @ May 26 2009, 10:33)
• The majority of people don't like Legard's commentary. They want him to be replaced.
I don't agree with you. I think most people only write here when something bugs them about the BBC's F1 effort.
I think there is a silent majority who think Legard is much better than Allen and is doing a sound job.
QUOTE (Hacklerf @ May 26 2009, 10:46)
Actually one thing i dont understand, why does Mckenzie get so much stick? shes does alright imo
I think McKenzie is a shockingly bad sports reporter.
Her questions aren't just terrible, they're lazy.
For instance, asking Lewis if he was bitterly disappointed at crashing in qualifying. Twice!
Two golden opportunities to gain decent knowledge of what caused a pivotal moment in the race weekend wasted.
Why not ask what caused the crash?
She almost seems to be so nervous she blurts out any old shite.
McKenzie appears a nice woman and I'm sure she is.
But this isn't a finishing school for cub broadcasters, she's got a great gig and her viewers deserve better.
He may come a cross a bit smarmy, but Ted (almost) always asks intelligent questions, even if some of them don't sit well with the victim.
He also appears to keep abreast of the developments in the race. McKenzie relies on stock questions that rely on two modes: good news / bad news. She doesn't appear to have the flexibility to think on her feet.
QUOTE (pRy @ May 26 2009, 11:51)
Alexis*27, why is it that when you quote people in this thread your quote box is missing the persons name? Are you removing it?
Sorry pRy, just using copy+paste and quote tags, out of habit.
Its always a vocal minority.
QUOTE (Alexis*27 @ May 26 2009, 11:55)
Sorry pRy, just using copy+paste and quote tags, out of habit.
Ah.. try using the quote button, it makes following the conversation easier when you can see who is being quoted.
Anyway.. my 2p worth is while I don't think Legard is amazing, I'm not that bothered by him now. He does alright and as pointed out, he isn't going anywhere soon.
There are far more positives than negatives in the BBCs' coverage of F1.
I am just happy to have it on TV and the commentary really is irrelevant. Overall, the production is superb IMO.
I am just happy to have it on TV and the commentary really is irrelevant. Overall, the production is superb IMO.
QUOTE (ForeverF1 @ May 26 2009, 12:03)
There are far more positives than negatives in the BBCs' coverage of F1.
I am just happy to have it on TV and the commentary really is irrelevant. Overall, the production is superb IMO.
I am just happy to have it on TV and the commentary really is irrelevant. Overall, the production is superb IMO.
I agree about the positives, it's just so frustrating to have one glaring flaw in it, when in every other way it's so great. Also it's a big flaw, and an obvious one that anyone could see coming who listened to any of Legard's previous commentary. What idiot BBC committee chose him?
And he's getting worse as time goes on, trying to say more, rudely talking over Brundle and trying to sound excited and spontaneous, by shouting the obvious instead of merely saying it.
QUOTE (undersquare @ May 26 2009, 12:16)
I agree about the positives, it's just so frustrating to have one glaring flaw in it, when in every other way it's so great. Also it's a big flaw, and an obvious one that anyone could see coming who listened to any of Legard's previous commentary. What idiot BBC committee chose him?
And he's getting worse as time goes on, trying to say more, rudely talking over Brundle and trying to sound excited and spontaneous, by shouting the obvious instead of merely saying it.
And he's getting worse as time goes on, trying to say more, rudely talking over Brundle and trying to sound excited and spontaneous, by shouting the obvious instead of merely saying it.
I guess that I am just lucky to able to let it wash over me and not be upset about it.
QUOTE (ForeverF1 @ May 26 2009, 12:21)
I guess that I am just lucky to able to let it wash over me and not be upset about it.
Bingo. Same here.
QUOTE (pRy @ May 26 2009, 12:57)
Ah.. try using the quote button, it makes following the conversation easier when you can see who is being quoted.
Anyway.. my 2p worth is while I don't think Legard is amazing, I'm not that bothered by him now. He does alright and as pointed out, he isn't going anywhere soon.
Anyway.. my 2p worth is while I don't think Legard is amazing, I'm not that bothered by him now. He does alright and as pointed out, he isn't going anywhere soon.
Use the "reply" button
Very long reply from Jake at his blog:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/jakehumphrey/20....html#P80548973
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/jakehumphrey/20....html#P80548973
QUOTE
Morning,
Just eating toast and watching BBC Breakfast in bed. Always an interesting way to start the day because it makes me laugh as much as brings me up to speed with the news. They're currently doing a rather surreal item about people being attracted to each other because of how they smell. I knew Harriet saw something in me!
Hey, how good was the sun yesterday? We were all expecting to fly home to a rainy Monday according to the weather reports so sunning myself on Richmond Green was an unexpected treat.
Anyway, before I do my usual unpacking/washing chores I've read through your messages - thanks for being so friendly and positive on the whole. I'm so happy you are enjoying the BBC coverage, and the ratings bear that out too which always motivates the team to keep working hard. I've tried to respond to any points you've all made...
#1 Jordan D - any tips for making the most of Istanbul greatly appreciated.
With regards to the short Forum ... #8 Blythy_vxR, we had to stop early for the last day of the football season I'm afraid. And #11 Glimiril, keep your eyes peeled for me getting a driving lesson from a rather well known someone pretty soon ... guesses on a postcard!
What did I mean when I talked about the vibe #10 Hooplar and #22 Naomigo? Well I feel similarly but not quite as strongly as #66 babbo_umbro or maybe #77 CJLBEEB. Monaco is so expensive that many true fans are priced out of it I think, leaving just corporate fans and those who have the money to see the action - this seems to dilute the atmosphere somewhat. I suppose the best example is that despite our boat being packed with genuine fans, the boat a few moorings down was packed with people lying on their back sunbathing during the race! I was looking at them thinking there are thousands of people across the world who, if they were lucky enough to be here, wouldn't be having a mid-race doze ... that's what I meant by the vibe. Well done to all those who did dig deep to be there, it was great to meet so many of you and I hope it was worth the effort!!
As for my black top #14 Kordith - yeah, I remember linking into Ted's Qualifying report and thinking that a black jumper was a bad move, and that was early on in the broadcast. I stayed in the shade for the whole race ... hope I didn't look too sweaty on TV!!
# 15 connors-75. Unlucky about Celtic mate. McGhee for you next it seems?? As for the sport going backwards ... I predict McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull not giving Brawn a moment's peace in Turkey ... I think a race like Monaco can make you think the field is really strong and really weak respectively, but the reality is that it's so, so close out there. Talking of being competitive, well done Force India by the way this weekend.
#16 WebbyFoxes. You asked about Eastenders being broadcast. Here's the deal as I understand it. The BBC have certain programmes they are contractually obliged to transmit. One of those is Eastenders Omnibus on a Sunday and of course that show is a certain length. Any minute we went over would have delayed Final Score on a vital weekend for football. As ever we would like to broadcast F1 all day but there are other people to please obviously and this weekend we came off air bang on time. For the record we've regularly gone over our transmission time this season. We have your best interests at heart - it's what we're here for!
#18 Gravedaveuk...thank you very much for your lovely coments. Sunil picks the tracks and does a good job I agree.
#21 JobyJak. Thanks for your comment. Made interesting reading on my day off! I think Richard Bacon is one of 5 Live's biggest talents and for the record Harriet and I stick him on every evening as we go to sleep. However, although we're both presenters, our respective roles are totally different. He has a talk radio show lasting several hours, covering controversial topics and with long periods of time to really get into the nuts and bolts of a particular issue. My job is far more technical I'm afraid with World Feed pictures being rolled in with no warning as to what's on them, no autocue to rely on, various hard counts that I have to hit, breaking news from the pit lane and guests being lined up at the drop of a hat. My job isn't necessarily harder that Richard's, it's just understanding broadcasting and realising my job is very different. As for 'appreciating my skills', well I wouldn't expect you to do so, to be honest. Essentially the hardest part of my job is the unseen stuff that means we all get from A to B covering all the topics and eventually, after 4 hours of TV finish to the precise second - the only person who really appreciates that is the PA and the network director. Not glamorous but those elements of the job are so important in sports broadcasting. The racing and DC/Eddie need to be what you remember. If I go unnoticed I've done my job well.
As for offering my opinion, well not surprisingly you are the only person to mention this in the past 3 months because there are two people alongside me who are employed to do just that. Our chats regularly last about 2 minutes and if I filled that time with my opinions then, trust me, we would be flooded with complaints. It's not like the various views on air go totally unchallenged as #24 RyanH002 points out. Eddie and David regularly disagree on things which means various viewpoints get aired ... and makes great TV in my opinion. My opinions compared to theirs simply aren't worth the airtime. How can I ever match them for experience and achievement in F1? Hope that answers your concern.
#30 nickslick75. Yes, I'm afraid despite my best efforts a bit of poor grammar or a poorly constructed sentence might slip through the net now and again!! Particularly when I'm driving through dark tunnels and sitting in airport departure lounges! I guess I always think it's best to get the blog online as soon as possible, the pay off is people hopefully accept it might not be perfect in all areas. If I'd waited until I had enough time to write it you'd see it appear online an Monday evening probably. Many people tell me they go online on the Sunday evening to have a read, hence my keenness to be swift. Point taken though.
#39 355simon. With regards to only a few emails being read out, I agree that we only managed about 5 this week. I think the problem stemmed from the fact we had no analysis time on BBC1 so by the time we'd seen the re-run highlights, press conference and analysis of the race on the red button, the time just flew away. I did try my best to marry up emails to chat points but I absolutely agree we need to include them even more and is on my list of things to improve for Turkey...promise. Same applies to StaffsSteve #80. Not ideal mate to not talk FOTA v FIA after our promise, but it was a time issue once again. Really sorry.
#40 ultima_volta. I'm hoping we hear from our fair share of legends during the Silverstone weekend. They really add depth to the sport, I agree.
#45 hamster1001. F1 Forum is online. On the right two thirds of the way down...enjoy!!
#58 molemot. Sorry you had navigation issues. All interactive/red button services are still in their infacy and sometimes a little issue like this arises. We'll be doing all we can to put it right. as ever. Hope it didn't spoil your enjoyment and do always let us know so we can do something about any issues.
#68 JemWilts. Jenson's run will go down as one of those famous F1 images won't it!
#71 smilingmturner. Good luck trying to convince your wife to let you get a huge TV - I've been trying for 5 years with no success and I'm on the bloomin' thing!!! Hat obviously thinks I look better on a smaller telly!!
I was really pleased that you feel you're just watching your mates down the pub #73 Speedingmal. That's precisely how I want it to feel so thanks.
#75 Kimi-14. I know what you're saying that it's annoying when there are too few drivers on the grid for Martin's walk. The person who actually decides when to do the walk is Martin himself when he feels it's the optimum moment. He tells Mark the producer he's ready to go, I then get the call and link straight to him. I think I'm right in saying that any later than 20 to the hour and the drivers don't want to talk. To be fair Martin's grid walks have been cracking all season, we've almost always got the pole-sitter and a few other treats too along the way ... one of my favourite parts of the build-up.
#81 philjf1. Funnily enough I have actually registered at Twitter. I couldn't get jake humphrey so I went for www.twitter.com/jakehumphreyf1 and I will start regularly using that soon too (probably in Turkey) so start following everyone!!
Right, that's your comments answered, keep them coming and please remember to log back on later in the week for photos/video I shot.
Oh, just for the record I'm really enjoying using this blog and getting the chance to converse with you all.
Roll on Istanbul!!!!!
Jake
Just eating toast and watching BBC Breakfast in bed. Always an interesting way to start the day because it makes me laugh as much as brings me up to speed with the news. They're currently doing a rather surreal item about people being attracted to each other because of how they smell. I knew Harriet saw something in me!
Hey, how good was the sun yesterday? We were all expecting to fly home to a rainy Monday according to the weather reports so sunning myself on Richmond Green was an unexpected treat.
Anyway, before I do my usual unpacking/washing chores I've read through your messages - thanks for being so friendly and positive on the whole. I'm so happy you are enjoying the BBC coverage, and the ratings bear that out too which always motivates the team to keep working hard. I've tried to respond to any points you've all made...
#1 Jordan D - any tips for making the most of Istanbul greatly appreciated.
With regards to the short Forum ... #8 Blythy_vxR, we had to stop early for the last day of the football season I'm afraid. And #11 Glimiril, keep your eyes peeled for me getting a driving lesson from a rather well known someone pretty soon ... guesses on a postcard!
What did I mean when I talked about the vibe #10 Hooplar and #22 Naomigo? Well I feel similarly but not quite as strongly as #66 babbo_umbro or maybe #77 CJLBEEB. Monaco is so expensive that many true fans are priced out of it I think, leaving just corporate fans and those who have the money to see the action - this seems to dilute the atmosphere somewhat. I suppose the best example is that despite our boat being packed with genuine fans, the boat a few moorings down was packed with people lying on their back sunbathing during the race! I was looking at them thinking there are thousands of people across the world who, if they were lucky enough to be here, wouldn't be having a mid-race doze ... that's what I meant by the vibe. Well done to all those who did dig deep to be there, it was great to meet so many of you and I hope it was worth the effort!!
As for my black top #14 Kordith - yeah, I remember linking into Ted's Qualifying report and thinking that a black jumper was a bad move, and that was early on in the broadcast. I stayed in the shade for the whole race ... hope I didn't look too sweaty on TV!!
# 15 connors-75. Unlucky about Celtic mate. McGhee for you next it seems?? As for the sport going backwards ... I predict McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull not giving Brawn a moment's peace in Turkey ... I think a race like Monaco can make you think the field is really strong and really weak respectively, but the reality is that it's so, so close out there. Talking of being competitive, well done Force India by the way this weekend.
#16 WebbyFoxes. You asked about Eastenders being broadcast. Here's the deal as I understand it. The BBC have certain programmes they are contractually obliged to transmit. One of those is Eastenders Omnibus on a Sunday and of course that show is a certain length. Any minute we went over would have delayed Final Score on a vital weekend for football. As ever we would like to broadcast F1 all day but there are other people to please obviously and this weekend we came off air bang on time. For the record we've regularly gone over our transmission time this season. We have your best interests at heart - it's what we're here for!
#18 Gravedaveuk...thank you very much for your lovely coments. Sunil picks the tracks and does a good job I agree.
#21 JobyJak. Thanks for your comment. Made interesting reading on my day off! I think Richard Bacon is one of 5 Live's biggest talents and for the record Harriet and I stick him on every evening as we go to sleep. However, although we're both presenters, our respective roles are totally different. He has a talk radio show lasting several hours, covering controversial topics and with long periods of time to really get into the nuts and bolts of a particular issue. My job is far more technical I'm afraid with World Feed pictures being rolled in with no warning as to what's on them, no autocue to rely on, various hard counts that I have to hit, breaking news from the pit lane and guests being lined up at the drop of a hat. My job isn't necessarily harder that Richard's, it's just understanding broadcasting and realising my job is very different. As for 'appreciating my skills', well I wouldn't expect you to do so, to be honest. Essentially the hardest part of my job is the unseen stuff that means we all get from A to B covering all the topics and eventually, after 4 hours of TV finish to the precise second - the only person who really appreciates that is the PA and the network director. Not glamorous but those elements of the job are so important in sports broadcasting. The racing and DC/Eddie need to be what you remember. If I go unnoticed I've done my job well.
As for offering my opinion, well not surprisingly you are the only person to mention this in the past 3 months because there are two people alongside me who are employed to do just that. Our chats regularly last about 2 minutes and if I filled that time with my opinions then, trust me, we would be flooded with complaints. It's not like the various views on air go totally unchallenged as #24 RyanH002 points out. Eddie and David regularly disagree on things which means various viewpoints get aired ... and makes great TV in my opinion. My opinions compared to theirs simply aren't worth the airtime. How can I ever match them for experience and achievement in F1? Hope that answers your concern.
#30 nickslick75. Yes, I'm afraid despite my best efforts a bit of poor grammar or a poorly constructed sentence might slip through the net now and again!! Particularly when I'm driving through dark tunnels and sitting in airport departure lounges! I guess I always think it's best to get the blog online as soon as possible, the pay off is people hopefully accept it might not be perfect in all areas. If I'd waited until I had enough time to write it you'd see it appear online an Monday evening probably. Many people tell me they go online on the Sunday evening to have a read, hence my keenness to be swift. Point taken though.
#39 355simon. With regards to only a few emails being read out, I agree that we only managed about 5 this week. I think the problem stemmed from the fact we had no analysis time on BBC1 so by the time we'd seen the re-run highlights, press conference and analysis of the race on the red button, the time just flew away. I did try my best to marry up emails to chat points but I absolutely agree we need to include them even more and is on my list of things to improve for Turkey...promise. Same applies to StaffsSteve #80. Not ideal mate to not talk FOTA v FIA after our promise, but it was a time issue once again. Really sorry.
#40 ultima_volta. I'm hoping we hear from our fair share of legends during the Silverstone weekend. They really add depth to the sport, I agree.
#45 hamster1001. F1 Forum is online. On the right two thirds of the way down...enjoy!!
#58 molemot. Sorry you had navigation issues. All interactive/red button services are still in their infacy and sometimes a little issue like this arises. We'll be doing all we can to put it right. as ever. Hope it didn't spoil your enjoyment and do always let us know so we can do something about any issues.
#68 JemWilts. Jenson's run will go down as one of those famous F1 images won't it!
#71 smilingmturner. Good luck trying to convince your wife to let you get a huge TV - I've been trying for 5 years with no success and I'm on the bloomin' thing!!! Hat obviously thinks I look better on a smaller telly!!
I was really pleased that you feel you're just watching your mates down the pub #73 Speedingmal. That's precisely how I want it to feel so thanks.
#75 Kimi-14. I know what you're saying that it's annoying when there are too few drivers on the grid for Martin's walk. The person who actually decides when to do the walk is Martin himself when he feels it's the optimum moment. He tells Mark the producer he's ready to go, I then get the call and link straight to him. I think I'm right in saying that any later than 20 to the hour and the drivers don't want to talk. To be fair Martin's grid walks have been cracking all season, we've almost always got the pole-sitter and a few other treats too along the way ... one of my favourite parts of the build-up.
#81 philjf1. Funnily enough I have actually registered at Twitter. I couldn't get jake humphrey so I went for www.twitter.com/jakehumphreyf1 and I will start regularly using that soon too (probably in Turkey) so start following everyone!!
Right, that's your comments answered, keep them coming and please remember to log back on later in the week for photos/video I shot.
Oh, just for the record I'm really enjoying using this blog and getting the chance to converse with you all.
Roll on Istanbul!!!!!
Jake
QUOTE (djellison @ May 26 2009, 12:28)
Bingo. Same here.
House! Me too. Allen was actively infuriating, Legard is not. Legard could be better, but he could be a lot worse.
QUOTE (ForeverF1 @ May 26 2009, 12:21)
I guess that I am just lucky to able to let it wash over me and not be upset about it.
Same here.
I don't know about anyone else but Brundle makes a fair few errors as well (mistaking one car/driver for another eg he called a BMW a Williams twice last weekend) and gets away with it.
Don't agree with you guys, but this is what this forum should be about - people discussing, not complaining about people giving their opinions.
By the way, the Jake blog was a good read. He's one of the best things about the BBC coverage.
By the way, the Jake blog was a good read. He's one of the best things about the BBC coverage.
QUOTE (Orin @ May 26 2009, 12:30)
House! Me too. Allen was actively infuriating, Legard is not. Legard could be better, but he could be a lot worse.
Legard infuriates me because he cannot do his job. Proof? Martin Brundle having to save him constantly by doing two jobs at the same time. It is just not working. I'd go as far as say that Brundle is missing Allen, someone who actually knew what he was talking about and could actully do his job.
QUOTE (Orin @ May 26 2009, 12:30)
House! Me too. Allen was actively infuriating, Legard is not. Legard could be better, but he could be a lot worse.
Can I join this little clan?
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