Travis Stone named Churchill Downs announcer

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Louisville, KY (SportsNetwork.com) - Churchill Downs has named Travis Stone as the track's announcer when racing resumes in April.

The 30-year-old Stone served as Monmouth Park's announcer for the 2014 meeting, succeeding Larry Collmus whom he also replaces at Churchill Downs. Collmus left Churchill to take over from Tom Durkin at the New York Racing Association tracks.

"Travis Stone is justly a rising star among the North American announcing ranks," said Kevin Flanery, Churchill Downs Racetrack President. "To no one's surprise, numerous race-callers with a wide range of talent and individual style showed interest in our vacant track announcer position. But it became clear to us that Travis' passion for horse racing and charisma resonated through the microphone and made him the ideal fit for our team and racing at Churchill Downs.

"It's apparent that Travis works tirelessly to hone his craft with entertaining, colorful and accurate race calls. We believe he's one of the nation's premier announcers and will be a fabulous ambassador for Churchill Downs Racetrack in a community and region that loves horse racing like no other for years to come."

Stone also served as the backup announcer at the New York Racing Association this winter. He will be the on-track and simulcast voice of the 141st Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2.

"It is truly an honor to become the new voice of Churchill Downs and to join a community that shares my passion and enthusiasm for this wonderful sport," Stone said. "The opportunity to call the Kentucky Derby and all of the prestigious races at Churchill Downs is a dream come true. I am already counting the days!"