I would like to applaud broadcaster Mike Sharpe in the wake of a Heritage Month staple — the Appleby Bermuda Half-Marathon Derby.

He and his team from ZBM provided first-class, comprehensive and highly professional commentary of the annual race.

In particular, Mike had a keen perception and understanding of the historical and statistical backdrop of the major athletes, along with the distinctive cultural attributes that comprise Bermuda Day.

It was in September 1977 when he commenced his broadcasting career as a sports reporter at the former Capital Broadcasting Company Ltd (ZFB), where I was station manager/news director.

Mike had a very keen understanding and broad brush perspective of all aspects of sport. It was almost second nature to him and I can understand why. He excelled in the early 1970s as a 100 and 200 metre sprinter and long jumper, competing for Bermuda in the Carifta Games.

The apex of his athletic career transpired when he competed, along with Gregory “Ribs” Simons, Calvin Dill and Dennis Trott, in the 4x100 metre relay for Bermuda at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, Canada.

Michael was the recipient of an athletic scholarship and matriculated at the University of Florida, Gainesville.

He had an impeccable collegiate career as a Florida Gator and acquired the honorific title as an “all-American athlete”.

He competed against world-class sprinters including the indomitable Steve Williams, a former 100 and 200 metre record holder.

n As a passing note, and in memoriam, I would like to pay tribute to the legendary Virgil twins, Neil and Neville.

The brothers, who passed away in 2015, were major contenders in the half-marathon, and made history in 1964 as the only twins to come first and second.