Geller new race-caller at Woodbine

ETOBICOKE, Ontario ­– Robert Geller has been hired as Woodbine’s new race-caller, replacing the popular Dan Loiselle, who is retiring May 31.

Geller, a 55-year-old native of Birmingham, England, has been the track announcer at Emerald Downs since it opened in 1996. He also has called races at Sunland Park and at tracks in Hong Kong and Australia, where he grew up. He will continue to work at Sunland in New Mexico.

“Ever since my first visit to Toronto in 1993, when I saw Peteski win the Queen’s Plate, I have felt an affinity for the track and the city,” Geller said. “To be asked to follow on from Dan Loiselle as the next voice of Woodbine is an honor. I am especially excited to call turf races again.”

Geller will start June 13, the day before the Woodbine Oaks. Greg Blanchard and Dawn Lupul will serve as interim announcers.

“Woodbine Entertainment Group has been blessed with the distinctive tones of Dan Loiselle, truly the voice of Canadian racing, for nearly three decades,” said Jim Lawson, chief executive of WEG. “Robert is a seasoned race-caller with a wealth of international experience, and we are delighted he has chosen to bring his talents to Canada.”