The BBC Story

The BBC Story

First TV sports commentary

First TV sports commentary
4 February 1937

The first television sports event to feature a live commentary was a boxing match between England and Ireland, broadcast on 4 February 1937. Outside broadcasts were in their infancy, and it was easier to bring the action into the studio, so the Concert Hall at Alexandra Palace was turned over to the Alexandra Amateur Boxing Club for the occasion. The commentator was Harry Mallin, a former middleweight champion and Olympic gold medallist.

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Celebrate the world's first television service! From unique early footage and rare oral history interviews to TV artefacts and media mash ups. Plus, don't miss our showcase of seminal Radio Times covers and key historical artefacts.



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