I posted on twitter this morning that my association with Timeform Radio was coming to an end, and I thought I should expand on that here rather than pollute timelines which are already confused by Willie Mullins' plans for his 372 Cheltenham Festival entries...
I had my first run-out on Timeform Radio back in December 2008 (Ludlow and Exeter if I recall correctly), and have thoroughly enjoyed my time working on the channel since then. A move within the wider organisation to reduce the reliance on freelance contractors is the reason for my departure, and while that's a great disappointment for me, it's wholly understandable that the content of Timeform Radio should be seen to mesh with Timeform's editorial team in Halifax, which is now stronger than ever. I'm very grateful to have had the privilege of inflicting myself on the wider public, and would like to thank Head of Timeform Kieran Packman for giving me that opportunity. Thanks should also go to Simon Rowlands and Tony Calvin, for helping to engineer that first meeting.
I've gained plenty of friends among those I've worked with (you know who you are), and am undoubtedly a better man for the experience, with particular mention going to Simon Foat for frequently going beyond the call of duty, particularly given the need to deal with my frustration when things didn't work as planned. Cheers Foaty! In similar vein, I've enjoyed the interaction with regular listeners, and hope that some of those regular discussions will continue in other media.
I'm hoping, as I said earlier, that this will lead to a new chapter for me, and I'm certainly open to offers for either written or broadcast work, particularly with the Festival in mind.
All the best,
Rory
Your RUK appearance was one of the best by any analyst and there's some good competition there Rory. I hope they and others will soon snap up your expertise as I, for one, would tune in. Best wishes
ReplyDeleteThanks Alan - RUK still making positive noises, so hopefully I'll get a bit of work there in due course.
DeleteFreelance is the toughest of worlds. Only the most determined and talented survive in it, so you will do fine. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteJoe
Cheers Joe - enjoyed the book, btw, as did my wife who managed to finish it in one sitting! Officially unputdownable....
DeleteReally sorry to hear this news Rory and can't help feel the TF Radio output will not be enhanced by your absence. Speaking as a racing fan and punter of varying success...I would just say that there must be a place for a talented analyst and racereader who is not afraid to call it as it is and is not beholden to the bookmaker, racecourse, BHA and horsemen interests who are trying to sanitise and shape comment on the sport.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your future projects...your talent will ensure success.
Mark
Much appreciated Mark.
DeleteAlways enjoyed listening to you on whatever medium you were on at the time, lets hope the analogy of one door shutting, etc, proves to be true in your case
ReplyDeleteI find it hard to understand your knowledge of racing past & present is unsurpassed. Perhaps you should start your own information service I am sure it would be well supported especially if not overly expensive. haha Good luck
ReplyDeleteHi Laurence - your support over the last few years has been very welcome. I do hope they read out your e-mails more often now. ;)
DeleteVery sorry to hear that. Your refreshingly honest opinions have been welcomed over the years and you have certainly educated me.
ReplyDeleteBest of Luck
Paul in Hull
PS I loved the Gorytus debate last year!
Cheers Paul - feel like I've accidentally ingested some croton oil this afternoon.....
ReplyDeletePhew!! You are the only person to get me dangerously close to betting on NH racing.
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy listening to your analysis of races and thoroughly respect your views Rory.
Life, as betting, is a continuing learning curve, and you will progress for the experience.
Hard work brings about good luck, and you have lots of that come.
Best wishes, Fibresand.
I hope I get to tempt you again at some point....
ReplyDeleteRory,
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to read you'll no longer be on Timeform Radio.
Listening to yourself, Dudders, DC has truly ignited my passion for Racing and your analysis and race reading has always been fascinating. I recall one time, I doubt you'll remember, it was back in November 2012, 10 runners lined up for the Jumping At Lingfield Next Tuesday Handicap, a class 5 event no less and you gave a very strong mention to a horse called 'Sonko', I still remember the analysis now, 'If I he can break out early from stall 3, trailblaze his way round and hopefully he'll be there at the finish, Jimmy Fortune is an excellent rider from the front too' and overpriced he was as he hung on by 1/2 length over an excellent ride. 16/1 he went off at the start and that brought a warm glow to an otherwise miserable wet and cold November afternoon!
Your patience and enthusiasm for always answering my questions, no matter what they were related to, be they racing colours or if today is finally the day Top Offer finally gets his head back in front has always been appreciated.
Thanks again Rory and good luck for the future.
Michael Gilmore
Hi Michael - thanks for bringing back some fond memories, and for your kind thoughts. Hopefully I'll be back in some form soon.
ReplyDeleteA great loss to Timeform radio but ventures new and all that jazz.
ReplyDeleteTimforms loss.. I respect and really enjoyed your analysis... Will you still be posting your thoughts on this blog ? I really hope so ... your the best i know !
ReplyDeleteA lot of what i wanted to say is said above. its a genuine pleasure to both read and listen to your informed opinion. there is no doubt at all that any broadcast or publication is enhanced by your involvement and i am sure your future is secure. cheltenham radio just won't be the same. all the best
ReplyDeleteRichard Scrimshaw
I won't repeat all that's been said above but I feel certain you'll be assaulting our ears/eyes with another organisation soon enough! You do excellent work mate. All the best in your new opportunities!
ReplyDeletePat
Rory, For me like many others I know - you were the number one reason for listening to the show. All other analysis pales by comparison. Seems a very strange decision by Timeform - it is clear that they made no effort to consult listeners over this. Also comes across as hypocritical since the organisation is based on the principle of making judgements after weighing up all the available evidence. The show will be greatly weakened by your absence (especially if it continues with its 'one man band' style of coverage which seems increasingly common these days). Hope your voice will not be lost to your appreciative fan base. I think there is space in the market for a rival internet radio station alongside others drawn from the jpfestival team. Maybe that will ultimately become an avenue worth exploring further.
ReplyDelete