Your vote for...

[dylbert]

Congratulations to all five candidates for Churchill Downs race calling gig.

I will openly admit that I am biased in favor of Travis Stone. He brings rare mix of youth, experience and maturity. Travis really reaches out and makes connection with racing fans and handicappers -- both on-line and in person. He and I have traded message over last two Louisiana Downs meets and I enjoy his perspective on thoroughbred racing today.

His youth (24 years old), experience (race calling at Louisiana Downs), and maturity (genuine student of thoroughbred racing since grade school) present Churchill Downs with unique opportunity to attract next generation of patrons. CD's approach is novel and will garner attention during its upcoming fall meet. Go, Travis, Go!

John G. Dooley is current CDI employee and does excellent job at Fair Grounds and Arlington Park. His brand value may have greater worth through his continuing work at these two historic venues rather than moving to CD job. Unless CDI or he makes statement, no one will know reason (or reasons) that he was not included in this group of race callers. Personally, I am glad that John will continue calling races at Fair Grounds each winter.