John Hunt was hailed for his extraordinary bravery after he returned to the commentary box to call Inothewayurthinkin’s Cheltenham Gold Cup triumph.
Three days earlier, one of BBC sport’s most distinctive voices had been speaking at the trial of Kyle Clifford, the monster responsible for killing his wife and two daughters.
Demonstrating extraordinary poise and eloquence, Hunt delivered a powerful victim impact statement in which he eviscerated Clifford, who will spend the rest of his life behind bars, and articulated the significance of losing three family members having initially questioned why it was necessary.
‘But then I realised that this was my final opportunity to say what I wanted to say, specifically to you, Kyle, words that will also be directed to your family, who will carry guilt forwards with them for the rest of their lives,’ he said.
‘They knew about the weapons, they knew,’ he added, in a reference to conversations Clifford had had with his sister and brother about his possession of a crossbow.
‘I also want to confirm to the world the truth, especially how Louise conducted herself within a textbook mature break-up on her part, understanding the conflict of saying goodbye to someone she once loved, but not allowing those memories to cloud her certain knowledge that you, Kyle, simply failed to be the person she needed. You failed.’
On Friday, Hunt was back in a more familiar and comforting environment doing what he does best, perfectly describing Inothewayurthinkin’s unlikely triumph, as the Gavin Cromwell trained seven-year-old defied the odds and beat favourite Galopin Des Champs to the Festival’s most coveted prize.
‘Inothewayurthinkin a massive danger,’ Hunt roared as the race reached its thrilling climax. ‘Inothewayurthinkin takes over at the last.
‘Galopin Des Champs has got no response. He’s now looking firmly beaten and we have now got a new name on the Gold Cup roll of honour and it is Inothewayurthinkin who has won in great style.
‘Mark Walsh punches the air… what a week he’s had, he’s brushed aside Galopin Des Champs to win the Gold Cup by five or six lengths.’
Calling a race of that magnitude at any time would represent a tough ask for any commentator, no matter their experience, but listeners were taken aback by Hunt’s unwavering excellence in light of the horrors he has been forced to contemplate.
‘John Hunt’s Cheltenham Gold Cup commentary is more than just a sporting moment it’s a stirring testament to courage,’ said one fan on X.
‘In the face of unimaginable personal tragedy, he has shown the world what true resilience looks like.’
Another added: ‘Would recommend relistening to his commentary of the Gold Cup today too. John Hunt a man of unbelievable courage.’
‘Everyone knows what a quality broadcaster John Hunt, very few will ever have to know the depths of courage he has found and displayed,’ said another racing officianado.
‘As a mere listener, I was profoundly moved by his statement and then his return to commentary. Love and respect to a quality & extraordinary man.’
