Victorian metropolitan racing will have a new voice in the commentary box next year with Greg Miles announcing his retirement from race calling.
Greg Miles. Photo: Youtube
Miles called his first race in Melbourne at Caulfield in December 1979 and his first Melbourne Cup in 1981 at the age of 22.
Miles called a record 36th Melbourne Cup earlier this month and said in a statement he feels the time is right to retire from race calling.
“I have been privileged to call Australia’s greatest races for more than three decades and after a long and fruitful career I believe that the time is now right to announce my pending retirement from race calling and allow a period of transition for the industry to its next metropolitan racecaller,” Miles said.
“I have always wanted to conclude my calling career on my terms and I will depart the caller’s box next June satisfied with my performance throughout this year’s Spring Racing Carnival.
“I have enjoyed longevity in my role due to the wonderful support afforded by my family and so many great people in racing and I want to collectively acknowledge those people whom I will thank personally.”
Racing Victoria chief executive, Bernard Saundry, thanked Miles for his contribution to racing in Victoria.
“Today is a day to celebrate the wonderful achievements of Greg Miles who will leave a great legacy in Victorian racing when he hangs up his binoculars prior to the end of this racing season,” Saundry said.
“As a racing fan at heart I have been blessed to grow up listening to Greg call our greatest races. He has transcended generations and will leave hefty shoes to fill when he officially retires.
“Greg can be most proud of his professionalism and commitment throughout his career and know that his ability to capture the moment has played an integral role in creating some of our greatest racing memories.”
Miles is contracted until June, 2017, and will be part of the selection panel formed to choose his successor.
racenet