Dave Johnson's extraordinary odyssey as a sportscaster has dramatically transcended the boundaries of both the silver screen and the small screen, ultimately cementing his status as one of the most legendary and unmistakable voices in the illustrious realm of broadcasting, a testament to his unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion for the craft.
For an extraordinary span of two decades, he has had the distinct honor of announcing Triple Crown races for the esteemed ABC Radio and Television, and has remained committed to his craft with unwavering dedication and professionalism, currently serving with Premiere Radio to this very day, a testament to his enduring passion and expertise in the field.
The iconic phrase "Down the stretch they come" has transcended the realm of mere sportscasting, forever etching itself in the collective consciousness as a beacon of his unparalleled announcing virtuosity, a resounding affirmation of his remarkable capacity to mesmerize and captivate audiences with his masterful use of language, weaving a sonic tapestry that conjures vivid imagery and transports listeners to the very heart of the action.
Embracing the energetic and culturally rich atmosphere of St. Louis, Johnson's earliest years played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation upon which his remarkable achievements would ultimately be constructed.
For an extraordinary five-year period, from 1972 to 1977, he had the distinguished honor of occupying the coveted position of track announcer at the prestigious Belmont, Aqueduct, and Saratoga racetracks, all located within the borders of the state of New York, where he brought his unique voice and expertise to the world of horse racing.
Notably, during this pivotal time, he simultaneously co-hosted a highly acclaimed and widely popular local television racing show alongside the exceptionally gifted and charismatic Charlsie Cantey, as well as the esteemed and knowledgeable Frank Wright, thereby further cementing his reputation as a multifaceted and accomplished broadcasting professional.
As the trio's unparalleled teamwork and announcing prowess continued to escalate, they eventually reached the very apex of their profession in 1978, marking a monumental milestone when Johnson made his debut as the primary voice behind the Kentucky Derby broadcast for ABC-TV, a momentous occasion that cemented his status as a stalwart in the world of thoroughbred racing. Meanwhile, Cantey's remarkable talent and charisma shone brightly as she stepped into the spotlight, making her debut as the on-air reporter for the illustrious Belmont Stakes on CBS, a testament to her exceptional skill and dedication to the craft of journalism.
Person Biography:
Charlsie Cantey is a renowned American sportscaster, best known for her work as an on-air reporter for CBS Sports. Born on February 22, 1947, in Miami, Florida, Cantey developed a passion for journalism at an early age, which ultimately led her to pursue a career in the fast-paced world of sports broadcasting. With a distinctive voice and unwavering dedication to her craft, Cantey has established herself as a respected figure in the industry, covering numerous high-profile events, including the Belmont Stakes, the Kentucky Derby, and the Preakness Stakes. Her remarkable career has been marked by numerous accolades and achievements, solidifying her position as one of the most accomplished sportscasters of her generation.
Johnson has had the unique privilege of being the lead thoroughbred announcer at the renowned Meadowlands Racetrack in New Jersey, a position he has held since the track's inaugural meet in 1977, thereby demonstrating his exceptional adaptability by covering both harness and thoroughbred racing events.
Johnson's impressive announcing credentials are merely the starting point for his remarkable journey, as he has also established himself as a prominent commercial voice, effortlessly bringing his unique tone and style to numerous notable advertisements, including those for the esteemed Mobil Oil and a prominent New York-area furniture outlet, showcasing his exceptional versatility and adaptability in the world of voiceover work, where he has successfully navigated the demands of various campaigns, honing his skills and further solidifying his reputation as a talented and sought-after voiceover artist.
