Fairmount race-caller Scully to retire at 70

John Scully plans to retire soon from race-calling, and Fairmount Park in Collinsville, Ill., plans to celebrate its longtime announcer during a Saturday night ceremony. Scully, 70, will be feted between the fourth and fifth races, said Jon Sloane, spokesman for Fairmount.

“John is retiring after a 46-year run at Fairmount Park,” Sloane said. “His last day will be our last day of the Thoroughbred season, which is Sept. 5, Labor Day.”

Scully will come down from his booth for Saturday night’s ceremony in the winner’s circle. He will be presented with a plaque commemorating his career, Sloane said, and will be given a set of golf clubs. Scully will then be asked to say a few words to the crowd, said Sloane.

“John is a local St. Louis guy,” Sloane said. “He’s been the voice of Fairmount Park for nearly half a century. His voice and style are synonymous to Fairmount Park.”

Sloane said the track community has a great deal of gratitude for the many years of race-calling by Scully.

Fairmount has launched a search for Scully’s successor, said Sloane. Parties interested in calling races at the meet that opens next spring can contact Connie Reames via e-mail at connie@fairmount.com.