Evan Loucks, a familiar face in the harness racing world, has stepped up to the plate once again as a race caller on Canada's biggest stage. With longtime announcer Ken Middleton on indefinite leave and current caller Chad Rozema needing a short break, Loucks has been filling in at Woodbine Mohawk Park. In an interview, Loucks shared his thoughts on the experience, his background in dairy cattle and hockey, and his journey into the world of race calling.
Loucks, a former Bell Canada installation technician, has a unique story. He started out in the racing world as a timer at Quinte Raceway in 1984, earning a modest $20 per night. His natural talent for calling qualifiers led to him taking on the role of a race caller, despite his initial lack of knowledge about horses. Over the years, he honed his skills by listening to race tapes and practicing with binoculars.
One memorable moment came in 1985 when Loucks called his first race at Quinte. His hand was shaking so badly with the binoculars that he couldn't see the race. But his confidence grew, and he soon became a regular at Kawartha Downs, filling in for the announcer Grant Wade. Loucks' versatility led him to call races at various tracks, including Elmira Raceway, Quinte Raceway, and Barrie Raceway.
In 2005, Loucks became a full-time race caller at Fraserville, ON, a five-eighths-mile track. He has since filled in at other tracks, including Woodbine Mohawk Park, where he has been a regular holiday back-up announcer. Despite facing challenges, such as the 'atomic snow' and fog that affected his performance at Mohawk, Loucks remains a beloved figure in the industry.
Loucks' journey into race calling is a testament to his dedication and passion. He has enjoyed a parallel career in the world of racing, calling penalties at the local arena for his brother's hockey team and absorbing knowledge from experienced announcers. His experience as a horse owner and his involvement in the industry have made him a valuable asset to the racing community.
As a former horse owner, Loucks understands the challenges and joys of the racing world. He has faced setbacks, such as the end of the Ontario Slots at Racetrack Program in 2013, but his love for the sport and the people he has met along the way keep him motivated. Loucks' story is a reminder that sometimes, the best part of the job is the people you meet.
