What does it take to become the voice of one of the most exciting and physically demanding sports in the world?

On today's episode of Double Bitter, Ryan and Kim are joined virtually by Troy Manering, the Canadian broadcaster who has become one of the defining voices of STIHL TIMBERSPORTS across Europe.

Originally from Vancouver and now based in Munich, Troy's path into broadcasting was anything but conventional. From recreation facility management and stunt skating to snowboarding events, extreme sports and eventually the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS World Championships, Troy shares how an unexpected opportunity grew into more than a decade behind the microphone.

Over a virtual Kentucky Mule, Troy takes us behind the scenes of live sports broadcasting, explains how he stays composed when productions go sideways and reflects on some of the loudest and most memorable TIMBERSPORTS events he has ever called.

The conversation also explores the evolution of the sport, the rise of a new generation of athletic competitors, the first Women's World Championship, Andrea Hand's remarkable victory and what fans can expect from STIHL's 100th-anniversary World Championships in Stuttgart.

The recipe you've been waiting for:

The Kentucky Mule:

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (your favourite Kentucky bourbon)
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 4 oz cold ginger beer
• Ice (cubed or crushed)
• Lemon wheel or fresh mint sprig, for garnish

Instructions

- Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
- Pour in the bourbon and fresh lemon juice.
- Top with the cold ginger beer.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or a sprig of fresh mint.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.