It’s not often that one introspects. Sure we would all like to, but let’s face it – we don’t! Now, why am I getting philosophical? Many would attribute it to getting older. It’s just that, very often, we get accused of having the ‘best job in the world.’ When I say ‘we,’ I mean my tribe of motoring hacks. Well, okay, accused may be too harsh – but you get my drift. And most of these statements usually stem from some sense of envy. While I have always gone to great lengths to explain that there’s a lot of hard work involved with what I do – most people roll their eyes, and don’t really believe my efforts to exonerate myself. I guess I had it easier when I used to juggle daily primetime news anchoring duties with my responsibilities as a financial correspondent, and, yes, as a motoring journalist too. But, now, I focus my attention on this most beloved world of wheels – and so, yes, I have to sometimes hide a smile or cross my fingers when I say, “It’s a lot of hard work.” Physically it still is – we push ourselves to the limit with travel, deadlines, and the like. But then the rewards are just as sweet. Yes, we get to drive the world’s best cars and bikes, and yes it involves doing so in some of the most stunning places this earth has to offer. So, this leads to the next thought. What makes for a great drive? Is it just the car or bike? For the longest time, I used to think that the answer to that was an emphatic yes. But, surely, all the thought (and the obvious lack thereof sometimes) that manufacturers put in to decide where to present their new vehicles must have some logic – right? Well, yes. Over the years, I’ve learned how much preparatory work and thought goes into planning a global drive event. At some carmakers, in fact, there are special teams whose sole responsibility it is to scour the earth looking for great drive locations. Yes, such jobs exist! This doesn’t just mean just having a great road, but also a good landscape to provide picturesque photo and video settings, and good logistics – easy flight connections, convenient access to hotels or resorts, and the possibility of being able to bring in a large number of vehicles. The cooperation of local authorities also has to be sought, besides ensuring there are no adverse weather or crime-related conditions to deal with. Plus, there has to be some engineering and servicing support on hand too. Hmmm, so that’s a lot to think about – isn’t it? It also means being able to pinpoint an obviously appreciable location on a map, and then plotting a reconnaissance visit. Most of these people experience the route, the stay, and the travel for themselves, before approving the location for the hordes of journalists who need to pour in from all corners of the world. So, now tell me – do I really have the world’s best job? Hey, that scout’s job sounds like fun – checking out exotic places, and even more exotic or luxurious hotels, and sampling the best food too. What’s bad about that? Well, before I make the accusation, I know better. I know what shade of green the grass on my side of the fence really is! And so, yes, that job too must bring its own share of pressures. I guess that leaves just the judges on Masterchef Australia. Now that simply has to be one sweet deal – the best food, great locations, and a flurry of producers and support staff. I try not to judge, but yeah, in their case, I don’t see a downside. The only pressure I can imagine is on their waistlines. Ha! So, now I am being judgemental and presumptive – and I shan’t do that. But, yes, the purpose of putting these thoughts down was simply because a) this topic has been on my mind for the past few days, and b) I think there are times one must appreciate what one has. Would I ever switch to a desk job that paid more, or simply pursue programming on television for the sake of gaining more airtime? No! The lure of the tarmac, the wind, the smell of burnt rubber, the growl of an engine, and the sheer adrenaline rush I get every time I know I’m going to get the chance to drive the next mean machine – whatever the segment – is purely irreplaceable. So, I thank my blessings, take to the frequent travel, varying time zones, and constant remote coordination with the office, not to mention the pressures – that, believe it or not, are real – with a smile and with gratitude. And with that I pack my bag for the next trip, the next flight, and the next ride...
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