Retiring broadcaster Robert Hall says the tributes he has received upon his retirement have been "staggering" after bringing the curtain down on a 37-year career with RTÉ Sport.
The highly respected Hall fronted RTE's racing coverage for the final time this weekend at the Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown and said it has been "a pleasure" working for the national broadcaster for nearly four decades.
The 65-year-old started at RTÉ with a radio commentary on the 1982 Irish 2,000 Guineas won by Dara Monarch at the Curragh and progressed to the television screen in the early 1990s, and along with Ted Walsh, have become household favourites throughout the country.
Friends and colleagues were keen to pay tribute to Hall.
"Robert has a fantastic knowledge of racing and breeding. He's straight up and calls it like he sees it," trainer Willie Mullins said. "I’m sorry to see him go. I wish you the best in your retirement."
"He will be missed. Robert is a racing fan and always did his best to promote the good of our sport. I think every sport needs presenters like that," Ruby Walsh said, while his father, Ted, said his colleague will be sorely missed.
"I have worked with him for 30 years. It was a pleasure. I’ll be sorry that I’m not working with him, but I’ll still be friendly with him. We will still have the cup of tea and a chat."
Speaking on his final broadcast, an emotional Hall said it has been a thoroughly enjoyable broadcasting career.
"This is staggering. I never, ever expected anything like this. It’s quite remarkable. I have had a wonderful, wonderful time. I have been all around the world with these racing opportunities.
"I would like to say what a huge pleasure and privilege it has been. I have followed my dream. If you admire bravery and brilliance and honesty, look no further than the thoroughbred and horsemanship at every level.
"I have been in a privileged position to share the last 37 years with these people around me."
