Cruise Guest Speaker - Murray Walker
Guest speakers are becoming increasingly popular on cruises and the latest one to be announced by Cunard is set to be extremely popular. Renowned Formula One commentator and journalist Murray Walker will join Queen Victoria on her 14 night Canary Island cruise in November.
At 90 years old, he has lived a life that few people could match. From his interesting childhood growing up during World War II to the growth of his phenomenal career in sports commentating, his journey is truly inspirational.
The world was first introduced to Walker in 1948 when his first commentating role, on Shelsley Walsh hillclimb, was aired. This only gave us a taster of the success that was yet to come. In the early 70’s Formal 1 started to become a world phenomenon and gained extensive coverage on British television, it was the perfect role for Walker. It wasn’t until 1978 that he went full-time as a Formal 1 commentator.
Through the following years Walker became extremely popular. His passion, opinions and infectious character beamed through millions of televisions around the world. His dedication didn’t stop here, he wrote a series of annuals for the Formula 1 which became famous collector’s items.
2001 saw Walker’s final Formula 1 season and shortly after he was awarded an original brick from ‘The Brickyard’ by track president Tony George. An award very rarely presented to anyone other than a winning driver, it was a reflection on his incredible contribution.
It was not long before his much loved commentating was missed and in following years came back on our screens with various microphones including Grad Prix Masters, Honda Racing F1 and European Grand Prix.
After being diagnosed with lymphatic system cancer in 2013, Murray made a speedy recovery and continues to influence the world through talks, books and documentaries.
It is not only his time at Formula 1 and the life-changing influence he had on this sport but his personal and early life is a story in itself. An incredibly inspiring character, you will be left in awe when you see him off-screen.
Find out more about Murray Walker in this uplifting video:
This exclusive opportunity to meet Murray Walker and hear him talk will be on Cunard’s Queen Victoria, 9th November 2014 Canary Islands Cruise.