The horse racing industry has seen a couple of the best race callers in the industry call it a career over the past few years. Tom Durkin stepped away from the microphone in 2014 and Dan Loiselle did the same earlier this year.
Now, the most familiar voice at Santa Anita Park and Del Mar, Trevor Denman, has opted to retire from racecalling after decades at the helm of both southern California Thoroughbred raceways.
Denman, 63, surprised many late last week when he let it be known that he will not be in the booth for Santa Anita’s 2015-2016 meet, which will get underway on Boxing Day (December 26).
Explaining his decision, Denman has stated that "It is time for me to kick back, relax and enjoy the rest of my life on my farm in Minnesota," adding that, "it is time to stop counting dollars and to start counting the stars."
A report on Denman’s decision by the Los Angeles Times states that Michael Wrona and Frank Mirahmadi will take over the announcing duties while Santa Anita officials make a decision regarding Denman’s ultimate successor.
High profile horsemen have commented on Denman’s decision. Jockey Gary Stevens has described Stevens as “One of a kind,” adding that “there will never be another like him.” California conditioner Ron Ellis stated that Denman "paints a picture for you" with his calls. “I could sit in the paddock and visually see the race with his call," he furthered.
(With files from the Los Angeles Times)