Longtime Penn National Announcer Bogar Retires

A significant chapter in Pennsylvania horse racing is drawing to a close. John Bogar, the long-time track announcer at Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course in Grantville, has announced his retirement, effective February 5, 2026. Bogar’s career at the track spans 45 years, with 31 years as the lead race caller since 1985.

A Voice of Penn National

Bogar’s contributions extend beyond simply announcing the races. He also handled the crucial task of setting the morning line odds for each racing card. During the 1980s and 1990s, he further broadened his reach by co-hosting “Racing Alive” with Fred Lipkin, a pioneering simulcast handicapping show broadcast directly from a racetrack.

Did You Know? John Bogar has been a mainstay at Penn National Race Course for 45 years, beginning his tenure in 1981.

A Legacy of Calls

Bogar reflected on his career, stating it has been “highly rewarding,” and expressed his honour in calling races for notable horses including Time to Bid (50 wins), Win Man (48), Sawmill Run (40), and Ben’s Cat (32). He also called races for horses that went on to achieve success at the Breeders’ Cup level, such as Da Hoss, Caravel, and Bobby’s Kitten.

He emphasized that the horses were only part of the experience, extending gratitude to his colleagues at Penn National and, most importantly, to the racing fans themselves – whom he described as “the body and soul of the racing industry.”

Expert Insight: The retirement of a long-tenured race caller represents a shift in the atmosphere of a track. A familiar voice often becomes intrinsically linked to the experience for both horsemen and fans, and finding a successor who can replicate that connection is a significant undertaking.

Looking Ahead

Hollywood Casino Vice President and General Manager Tony Frabbiele acknowledged Bogar’s service, stating his voice and style have been “synonymous with horse racing at Penn National” for five decades. The track has already initiated a search for a new announcer, with interested candidates directed to apply via https://www.pennentertainment.com/careers. It is possible the search could take several months to ensure the right fit.

Penn National plans to honour Bogar later in the 2026 racing season with a dedicated evening celebrating his accomplishments. The specifics of the event are currently unknown, but it could involve a presentation, video tribute, or a race named in his honour.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will John Bogar’s retirement be effective?

John Bogar’s retirement will be effective on February 5, 2026.

What other roles did John Bogar hold at Penn National?

In addition to being the lead race announcer, John Bogar handled the morning line odds making responsibilities and co-hosted the “Racing Alive” simulcast show.

Where can interested candidates apply for the announcer position?

Interested candidates can apply for the announcer position via https://www.pennentertainment.com/careers.

What will you miss most about the familiar voices that define your favourite sporting events?