Trackside with race caller George Simon for Auckland Cup Week

Along with the gloss and glamour, there's a soundtrack that's part of the buzz of the racetrack during Auckland Cup Week, writes Seven Sharp reporter Mary-Jane Aggett.

The constant hum of the commentary rises to a huge crescendo at the end of each race. And being a maestro behind the mic like veteran race caller George Simon takes as much craft and expertise as any player in the industry.

"It's exactly what I've wanted to do," said Simon. Growing up in Waikato, he practised his gift of the gab from a young age.

"I started sitting up in a tree behind our house in Ngaruawahia with an old copy of Best Bets. I did that when I was seven years old up in the tree and away I'd go calling the Auckland Cup race in my imaginary mind."

Simon has been a TV presenter, and racing personality of the year, but around these traps, he's known as the Voice of Ellerslie. And Seven Sharp found him getting a shoe shine before he started work.

We followed him to the commentary box, a very small space on the fifth floor — his favourite spot on his favourite course around the world.

He called his first race when he was just 17, and let slip he's been a commentator for over 40 years.

"I go race by race. And I've taught myself over the years — once that race is finished I forget about those horses' names and those colours and think about the next race."

George admits he's hopeless at remembering people's names, even though he has a fantastic memory for the names of four-legged friends.

He's also had a few stuff ups in his long career.

"Yes, I've forgotten horses' names and realised I was calling the wrong name when the horse is coming down the home straight."

George tried to show me how to call a horse race. He offered some helpful tips such as "remember to breathe" and "it's important to get them in the right order".

I asked him what to do if they finished all in a bunch. I've been at enough children's sports days to know that it's a crisis when you're handing out medals, and even though you watch the race you've no idea who gained a place.

"Don't panic," he grinned cheerfully. "And pray for divine intervention — I've got a feeling you're going to need it."

So I gave it my best shot calling Race Two. Yes, I forget to breathe. Yes, I forgot a horse's name and I also think I confused one for another.

There are ten race callers currently around the country. Let's just say that's not likely to change any time soon.