Overview:
The Track Announcer relays information to guests regarding any changes throughout the race day and provides upcoming bet types or carryover pools; provides support to higher level staff; and performs related tasks within area of assignment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(These functions are intended as a general illustration of the work performed in this job classification and are not all inclusive for this position)
LIVE RACING
- Delivers superior internal and external guest service by ensuring every interaction includes our Six Core Service Standards (Look sharp, smile and greet the guest; Be friendly, polite and use courteous language; Provide especially timely and knowledgeable service and then some; Always find solutions to guests’ problems; Use the guest’s name when appropriate; Thank the guest and invite him or her back.); and work harmoniously with fellow team members.
- Submit entries in the Racing Office prior to heading to the announcer’s booth
- As needed, perform the duties of the Clocker during training times in season and post season
- Surveys horses during workout and assigns speed ratings by horse, rider, distance run, and time measured.
- Calls each race in an accurate and engaging manner that describes full details of race; makes announcements from judges from inquiries regarding a race.
- Makes announcements to all guests that are required by the racing commission and the racetrack which describe scratches, jockey changes, equipment changes and other pertinent race information.
- Announces sponsorship and commercials to meet contractual requirements; promotes company marketing programs; serves as simulcast host as required.
- Create the morning line odds-maker and create the on-track handicapping tip sheet.
- Make all promotional and racing related announcements includes handling the Twitter take over for racing-related questions, issues, and happenings for Belterra Park.
- Bring in groups to watch live races called from the booth.
- Work directly with the TV production team to handicap the race over the PA with video replays to show "key" horses and races.
- Create racing content for the website year-round including a blog and new material weekly.
- Work with Marketing to be guest on local radio show discussing the upcoming live race week and any major races for simulcast opportunities
- Partner with Marketing on a podcast show to discuss simulcast and Live Racing at Belterra Park
- Work directly with the Mutuel Manager to conduct handicapping seminars for player events
- Spend time with on track players before and after the races to build a stronger racing base.
- Create scratches and changes sheet for the simulcast coordinator as needed.
- Performs related duties and responsibilities as required.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
High School Diploma or GED, and a minimum of (5) years’ experience as an Announcer / Clocker.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: (Licenses, Certifications, Testing, etc.):
- The ability to maintain all regulatory licenses within assigned state of employment.
- Must successfully pass background check
- Must successfully pass an alcohol and drug screening
- Must be willing to work a variety of shifts to include swing shifts and holidays if needed
PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:
Knowledge of:
Operations, services and activities of a public broadcasting operation; current media contacts for advertisement; knowledge of thoroughbred racing announcement and; principles and practices of equipment management and maintenance; pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Ability to:
Speak publicly and disseminate the correct information to large numbers of guest; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; prepare clear and concise reports; interpret and explain policies and procedures; interpret and apply federal, state and local policies, laws and regulations.