What should we talk about today?
The world according to Kirkey
“Some people are on the pitch; they think it’s all over. It is now!” is one of the most iconic moments of sporting commentary – delivered by the BBC’s Kenneth Wolstenholme at the conclusion of the 1966 FIFA World Cup: objectivity and subjectivity beautifully fused together to capture not only the finality of the game … Read more
I have only been married once: to my late wife Theresa on 16th August 1986. Aside from the length of the ceremony (as I recall, as bride and groom we frequently had to sit down on allocated chairs and listen to the priest drone on about some sacred pronouncement or other) and the obvious bias … Read more
Once upon a time an imperfect man found the perfect place where his loved ones could flourish. His cat came too. Towering above this idyllic spot was a tree. Tall, solid, and protective of this alcove of bliss. His family were happy and secure there. Throughout the winds of change the tree stood firm and … Read more
Division, disruption, and derision are the cruel consequences of right-wing ideology. In this space difference is framed as dangerous and contrived tribal tensions are sustained by agent provocateurs who frequently occupy positions of power. Currently, our own nation is plagued with this condition where prejudice is propelled to the pinnacle of public discourse. Nonetheless, disagreement … Read more
From on top of the world to dashed Olympic dreams with velocity and veg: learning from success and setback. Wisdom is defined as the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment. Experience is underpinned by duration and the usual embodiment of this human trait is the quintessential elder, often with wizened features. Perhaps the … Read more
Sliding Through Life – The autobiography of Scott Nicholls written by Ian Kirke. The big launch day at the British Speedway Grand Prix, Principality Stadium, Cardiff, fan zone on Saturday 17th August 2024. Order here. © Ian Kirke 2024 @ianjkirke All non-credited imagery reproduced by kind permission of Emma Ellis.
The stag do – or as our friends across the pond would call it, the bachelor party – can be traced back to ancient Sparta (circa 404 B.C.) where soldiers would hold a celebration for a groom the night before his wedding. This masculine meet sought to bid a final salute to singledom whilst preparing … Read more
When the call is made how could I refuse? UK Football Fans urgently needed to represent their teams in Major TV Broadcaster commercial campaign! The pitch: I’ve been a Notts fan since I was 10 years old – so 51 years of pain! I am a season ticket holder facing a 5-hour round trip for … Read more
Join one of the most decorated national speedway champions as he reflects upon his roller-coaster life, often on two wheels, but more so as an ordinary human being trying to make sense of it all. The urge to share his life story, or more accurately a work in progress, stems from one simple question – … Read more
I’ve been to some big games: Wembley playoffs, promotions and championship clinching matches ─ and, being a Notts County fan, more relegation nail biters than I care to remember, but this match eclipsed the lot. The debut of my best friend, partner in crime, and ─ by reason of osmosis ─ a committed Magpie: Arthur … Read more