80 | Behind the Mic at the Commonwealth Games.. DJ Returns from Glasgow
Episode 80 - Behind the Mic at the Commonwealth Games.. DJ Returns from Glasgow
DJ is back from Glasgow and Simon has stepped into the host’s chair to make sure DJ’s newfound international commentary fame hasn’t gone to his head.
In Episode 80 of What a Load of Bowls, DJ takes us behind the scenes of commentating at the Commonwealth Games. He shares the nerves and imposter syndrome he experienced when he first entered the commentary box, the instructions coming through his headset, the pressure of working around live broadcast graphics and the challenge of protecting his voice while commentating for up to six games a day.
The boys also discuss the impressive Commonwealth Games venue, the portable rinks, shortened sets-play format and some of the standout performances DJ witnessed from the best bowlers in the world.
DJ explains why preparation proved so important, how one bowl could completely change a match and why this type of broadcast-friendly format could be the future for bowls at major multisport events.
There is also plenty of discussion around Gary Kelly’s outstanding Games, England and Malaysia’s preparation, Australia’s performances, the possibility of bowls appearing at the Olympic Games and the moment jetlag caused DJ to call Simon “Baz.”
In this episode:
- DJ’s first reaction to entering the Commonwealth Games arena
- Dealing with imposter syndrome behind the microphone
- How a professional live broadcast operates
- The voice in DJ’s ear throughout every match
- Six games a day and some very long commentary shifts
- Commentating while battling a disappearing voice
- The tactics used on the portable rinks
- Paul Foster and Alex Marshall’s incredible opening set
- The brutal nature of shortened sets play
- Why preparation was critical for England and Malaysia
- Gary Kelly’s outstanding Commonwealth Games campaign
- The Australian performances that impressed DJ
- Whether this format is the future of Commonwealth Games and Olympic bowls
- Why Simon may now need to answer to “Baz”
Listen now and hear what life was really like behind the microphone at the Commonwealth Games.
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