Hubert Lawrence is a veteran sports commentator, track and field analyst, author and columnist. He has been a sports commentator for more than three decades and has covered more than five Olympic Games, several World Athletics Championships and Penn Relays. Hubert’s fervour for history and track and field has seen him penning books such as “Champs 100” and co-authoring “The Power & The Glory: Jamaica in World Athletics, from WWII to the Diamond League Era”
In this episode, Hubert discusses colouring historical moments in sports. He shares how he got started as a journalist and also as a commentator in the 1980s. He speaks about his passion for track and field and his views on his role as an analyst and commentator in bringing sports to life for listeners and viewers. Hubert discusses how much research goes into being a sports commentator and what it takes to stay in the know with sports.
Hubert also speaks about:
- Young and upcoming sports commentators such as Ricardo Chambers and Dwayne Extol who he expects to take the mantle from commentators like himself.
- His relationship with veteran sports journalist and commentator Lance Whittaker.
- Writing his print columns and the role history plays in his writing.
- His experience researching and writing the “Champs 100”, documenting 100 years of track and field.
- His co-authored book, ‘The Power & The Glory: Jamaica in World Athletics, from WWII to the Diamond League Era’ and his next writing project.
- Brian Cummings and his contribution to sports through photography.
Hubert also shares his views on the future of Jamaican track and field. He discusses young Jamaican track field male sprinters such as Dejour Russell, Christopher Taylor and Michael O’Hara. Young female prospects such as Danielle Sloley, Brittany Anderson, Kevona Davis and Carlette Bernard are also mentioned as athletes to watch. He speaks about his expectations for Jamaica to excel in events such as the 800m, triple jump, long jump, shot put and the discus throw.
Other topics discussed are:
- The return of track and field amidst the pandemic and digital media being used by various sports to remain relevant.
- How he believes sports should be phased in as sports administrators grapple with the impact of the pandemic on sporting events.
- The future of track and field events in North America and the Caribbean and the possibilities of having a regular circuit in the region.
- His views on Jamaica athletes training locally versus internationally.
- Most memorable moments he has commentated on.
- Advice for youth athletes and sports journalists/commentators.