Mocklin named new track announcer

Rick Mocklin has been named the new announcer for Louisiana Downs, said Trent McIntosh, director of operations for the Bossier City track. The meet opens May 2. Mocklin takes over for Travis Stone, who last month was hired as the announcer for Monmouth Park.

Mocklin, 57, is a native of New Orleans. He is a longtime jockeys’ agent who will continue to represent Richard Eramia, the winner of the last three riding titles at Louisiana Downs, and Martin Ramirez. Mocklin first worked as an announcer in 1974 at the now-shuttered Jefferson Downs. He’s also been the announcer at Sam Houston, Ellis Park, and Kentucky Downs and was a backup announcer for Fair Grounds.

Mocklin said he is looking forward to getting back into the booth.

“I’m excited about it because it’s been 19 years since I’ve been a full-time announcer,” he said. “I have worked with John Dooley, backing him up on occasion [at Fair Grounds]. I think the vocabulary, the terms to use, the mechanics will come right back. It’s like riding a bike. You don’t forget how to do it. I think I’ll fall right back into the routine of calling the races.”

Mocklin has logged 40 years in racing and was recently inducted into the St. Bernard Parish sports hall of fame, which is located near New Orleans.

“Rick brings a wealth of industry experience to the team at Louisiana Downs, and we are excited to have him here to kick off the 2014 season,” McIntosh said.