Derek Thompson bringing the curtain down on his commentary career As Derek Thompson prepares to call his final race at Wolverhampton, the legendary broadcaster reflects on a remarkable six-decade career filled with unforgettable moments, famous faces, and racing history. Tommo Bows Out After Nearly 60 Years in Racing Commentary Derek Thompson has decided the time is right to step away from the commentary box. “I’ve been doing it for so many years that it’s time to move on. It’s not getting any easier, but I still love it.” The 74-year-old has been a familiar voice in horse racing through work with BBC Radio, ITV, Channel 4, At The Races, and Sky Sports Racing. His colourful career has included everything from negotiating in the Shergar kidnapping to going viral with his beloved catchphrase, “Are you well? I thought you were!” Tuesday night at Wolverhampton will mark his final race call. “It’s not going to be easy because I still love it to this day… I’ve got the best seat in the house.” Tommo expressed deep gratitude for the support he’s received: “The messages I’ve been getting on social media… it almost brought a tear to my eye. It’s very moving and it makes me feel very proud.” A Life in the Limelight and Plans Beyond the Mic Though stepping back from race calling, Thompson won’t be disappearing. He plans to stay active in the sport with racecourse presentations and a tour featuring his signature phrases: “We’re hoping to continue the fun side of racing because I’m a great believer in enjoying racing.” He even teased a podcast to share the stories “we can tell.” Among Tommo’s more unexpected achievements was beating Prince Charles in a charity race. “I beat him… at Plumpton. The late Queen goes, ‘but I haven’t [forgiven you], Tommo.’ It was incredible.” He reminisced about calling Frankel’s debut win at Newmarket and shared a touching memory of Sir Henry Cecil’s kindness during his battle with cancer: “I remember him saying, ‘come on, sit down next to me’… I miss Henry to this day.” Thompson also recalled the iconic 1973 Grand National radio broadcast: “Crisp and Richard Pitman were 30 lengths clear passing me and Red Rum got up on the line to win.” That historic race, he says, remains one of the greatest he ever witnessed.
