Racer, not Walker
With an enthusiasm that was not so much infectious but viral, he was a legend in his long lifetime. Through his passion for the sport, a passion communicated to ordinary folk like me, he singlehandedly popularised motor racing’s Formula 1 on British television.
Murray could take the potentially dull convoy of supercars charging round motor racing circuits around the world and bring his depth of knowledge, anecdotes and drama, sometimes of his own making! A motorcycling star himself, I knew him as an adman, something he did with equal passion.
He was my boss. He was Murray Walker OBE. RIP.
7 comments add one below
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Michael Cook about 3 years ago
No matter how uninteresting a race was, Murray always managed to make it fun to watch. A truly great commentator!
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Neville Hunt about 3 years ago
He really was, Michael. I am convinced he made F1 what it is... forget the Bernie Ecclestons of this world, Murray did it singlehandedly. He was exactly the same to work for...highly enthusiastic and very kind, together with his occasional gaffe or two! A lovely man and a great commentator. His other love was motor cycles, having been a racer himself earlier and his dad, Graeme Walker had been a champion in that area. Murray married his timekeeper, keeping himself in the world of motorsport. Cliché it may be these days, but he really was a legend! Thanks very much for commenting.
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Frenchie about 3 years ago
A lovely tribute.
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Neville Hunt about 3 years ago
Thanks Frenchie. He was a really lovely man, something you don’t necessarily expect of a TV personality.
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Christopher about 3 years ago
Your connections never cease to amaze me, Neville. Condolences on his passing. A lovely tribute.
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Neville Hunt about 3 years ago
Thanks Christopher. Not sure if Murray’s fame crossed the Pond?
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Christopher about 3 years ago
It doesn't ring a bell but I used to watch Formula 1 racing some with my dad so there's a chance I came across him and just don't remember it.
