QATAR MOTOGP 2008

The historic first ever floodlit Grand Prix of any type at Qatar last year. With more lights than Vegas, the 11pm start of the MotoGP race was fantastic to commentate on from our trackside position.

We worked late into the night afterwards, leaving the track at dawn, but this is how it all got underway.

“Toby's rider recognition, corner identification and recall of places, dates, etc, is bordering on the supernatural.

If you think commentary is about just turning up and talking, I suggest you don't work with Toby. For every hour he spends on the mic, he spends at least two talking to everyone from riders to tyre fitters.

Commentating with Toby was always a pleasure. We’ve worked and travelled together for 13 years, yet managed to remain friends. I might miss the 5am hire car drive to Osaka airport (but not a lot).”

JEREZ, 2008

One of the most amazing moments of the decade, let alone the season...

During qualifying at Jerez, American Colin Edwards did his incredible save, just avoided crashing, and was able to get back on the bike.

True amazement for all who saw it.

THE RIDERS’ CHOICE - VALENTINO ROSSI

Valentino Rossi arrived into the commentary box in Germany, initially planning to stay for just a few laps of the 125cc race, but in the end he stayed until the end of the race. His insight and charisma shone through as always...

Everyone else asked if he was free during other races in 2008, but he said no.

Thank you Valentino. It was great having you there.

ALLAN McNISH COMMENTATES
WITH TOBY

Allan McNish, Le Mans 24 hours winner, joined Toby in the commentary box at Misano in 2008.

Randy Mamola had just taken Allan for the ride of his life on the Ducati two seater, but Allan as a fan of the sport, immediately jumped at the chance to race up to the box for an insiders view of what it’s like commentating on MotoGP qualifying.

Allan was no silent guest, but in fact joined Toby and Julian in the usual banter.

THE RIDERS’ CHOICE
NICKY HAYDEN

Following Nicky Hayden’s 2006 MotoGP World Title, MTV made a reality TV show about the American.
I helped out MTV with the programme by doing some voice overs for the paddock’s Kentucky Kid.

“Toby is one of the true good guys in the MotoGP paddock...my buddies back home loved all the English terms and they always say they want to go out for beers with this guy and get some of his one liners!!!”

NICKY HAYDEN

“Many other commentators start good and then drop off, but you remained at the same level for all of the years we’ve been together, always at the top. Thank you so very much”

VALENTINO ROSSI

JULIAN RYDER

For 16 years Toby has been the voice of MotoGP the world over, commentating on every race since 1996. For one of the most exciting motor sports on the planet, exciting and gripping commentary is essential...

“I met Tobe back in my privateer days with QUB and it's fair to say Tobe had a soft spot for the underdogs.

We were very determined to impress back then and Tobe didn't let that go unnoticed.

I can safely say that anyone in two wheeled racing circles would find difficulty in having to get our seasonal dose of MotoGP without the voice that has become engraved in our sport.

JEREMY McWILLIAMS

Le Mans MotoGP