Goddard marks 45 years in media

JOURNALISTIC thoroughbred Michael Leon Goddard was placed in the winners’ circle by colleagues and friends, as they saluted his 45 years in the media.Goddard was the centre of attention at a thanksgiving service on Sunday night at People’s Cathedral on Bishop’s Court Hill, where he is an elder in the church and the leader of the men’s ministry.Reverend Wes Hall delivered the sermon, with veteran journalists, Tony Cozier, Harold Hoyte, Sam Wilkinson, Arnon Dyall, George Hall and Emmanuel Joseph, among the congregation, along with long-time friends Sydney Simmons, Maurice Norville, and Orlando “Gabby” Scott. Retired revered horse racing commentator Dave Barnard, who formed a formidable partnership with Goddard in calling the races for 30 years, described him as a man of integrity.“I am not only honoured but proud to be part of the relationship we had. It was immensely pleasant and I treasure it.”Hoyte reminded the congregation that 45 years of service was no Saturday morning gallop and Goddard had much to be proud of.“It says a lot that his name has never been dragged through the mud. No one can say he has ever taken sides, and Michael remains revered by friends and colleagues.”Hoyte added that Goddard’s horse racing commentary, in association with Barnard’s, remained the benchmark for local and regional horse racing.Goddard, a Christian, spoke about the transformation in his life, since he has turned to God.“I thought horse racing was exciting till I met Jesus Christ. God has been awesome and taken me places I didn’t think I would go,” said Goddard, noting he had enjoyed and visited all kinds of denominations across the island.Goddard, who spent 18 years at Barbados Rediffusion and served as assistant news editor, chronicled his years in journalism and spoke of his first byline on July 21, 1965.He thanked his family for putting up with the extreme demands of the job over the years.“When it wasn’t the Derby, it was the Gold Cup or a general election. That was my job and I am glad they understood it.”Goddard has been employed at the CBC since 2004, and general manager Lars Soderstrom was quick to hail him as one of the pillars of the newsroom and a coach to the younger journalists.Church elder Emmerson “Apple” Applewhaite, spoke about the renaissance of Goddard.“Mike Goddard called the races, but God called Mike Goddard. I thank God for you and I thank God for bringing us together.”