Television viewers are in for a shock today. Almost a year to the day that the legendary Sir Peter O'Sullevan retired as a BBC commentator, his place behind the microphone is to be taken by a comedian.
As part of their Jobs For The Boys series, the duo Hale and Pace will front coverage of the Stanley Leisure Children In Need Handicap Hurdle at Aintree.
Gareth Hale will report from the paddock, with Norman Pace commentating on the race itself.
The pair had a practice run at Warwick in June and have been seeking expert advice from the BBC's commentary experts, such as John Motson, Des Lynam and Sue Barker.
But Pace admitted: "I haven't felt under such pressure for ages. "If you make a mistake there's nowhere to hide. It's like an actor dying on stage - everyone's worst nightmare."
Hale added: "At the beginning neither of us knew anything about racing. Just identifying the horses was nearly impossible. They should train them to run slower!"
The pair's task is easier than it could have been as there are only eight runners in their race.
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