InterviewRichard Hoiles
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Richard Hoiles: 'I just try to convey what I'm feeling as a fan - but you're only one word away from cocking the whole thing up'

ITV's lead commentator tells Catherine Macrae about his journey into television and desire to improve the sport

Richard Hoiles at Newmarket
Richard Hoiles: ITV's lead commentator since 2017Credit: Edward Whitaker

There is no room for nerves at the start of a race. 

As the horses group together, circling under the watchful eye of the starter, the sharp anticipation of a Grade 1 contest ripples through the crowd at Sandown. Yet high above, peering over the ledge, Richard Hoiles is calm. 

Nervous people talk too quickly and Hoiles has crafted his oration to a fine art. It helps, of course, that he has been here before. There are only a few major races across the globe that ITV's lead commentator has not witnessed, and Saturday's Tingle Creek card is no exception. He glances back at his set-up and adjusts the audio levels on his headset as the final seconds tick down, before launching into his shift with expert ease. 

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