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What is a Race Caller?
A Thoroughbred race caller (also known as a race broadcaster or race commentator) is the voice of the races — the person who provides a live, play-by-play commentary of Thoroughbred horse races as they happen.
Race callers are responsible for accurately identifying each horse, describing the action in real time, and conveying the drama, pace, and excitement of the race to the audience at the track, on television, or over the radio.
Some of the key responsibilities of a Race Caller include:
- Live Race Commentary
- Preparation Before Each Race
- Post-Race Debrief
A Thoroughbred race caller is the professional who brings the race to life for audiences — combining precision, excitement, and storytelling.
They transform a fast, complex event into a clear and thrilling narrative, ensuring fans and punters know exactly what’s happening from the jump to the finish line.
They are, quite literally, the voice of the track.
Steps to becoming a Race Caller
- Exceptional memory — must recall horse names, colors, and positions instantly.
- Strong verbal clarity and the ability to speak rapidly and confidently.
- Excellent situational awareness — able to track and describe up to 20+ horses in motion.
- Calm under pressure and adaptable to unexpected events (e.g., falls, protests, late scratchings).
- A good understanding of racing terminology, tactics, and horse movement.
- Charisma and a distinctive voice style that connects with racing fans.
Matt Cross
One of the most iconic weeks in the New Zealand racing calendar is also one of the most important for race caller Matt Cross, who is the voice of New Zealand Cup Week.
Growing up idolizing legendary race caller Reon Murtha, we caught up with Matt as he lives out his dream in what is set to be one of the best Cup weeks yet.