Charlsie Cantey had no intention of being the inaugural woman racing announcer. She never considered herself a trailblazer. Her journey simply unfolded.
In 1975, Cantey was one of just a few women training horses when Frank Tours, representing the New York Racing Association at the time, inquired if she would consider a consistent role on a WOR television program showcasing local races. The more he pressed, the more strongly she dismissed the suggestion.
Eventually, primarily to resolve the persistent requests, she unwillingly consented to a meeting with Bill Creasy, the broadcast director, who was keen on incorporating Cantey alongside the commentators Dave Johnson and Frank Wright.
Soon afterward, Cantey got a call informing her that Wright needed to miss an episode because of a prior engagement. Could she fill in for him for a single broadcast?
She accepted, and it seemed predestined from the very beginning. Her quest for a story revolved around, and perfectly suited, a horse aptly christened – No Bias.
He was featured in the Vosburgh Stakes broadcast the day after he secured an allowance victory at Belmont Park. Astoundingly, No Bias achieved another triumph in consecutive days.
The narrative arc achieved optimal success. Furthermore, Cantey performed exceptionally well despite initial doubts.
“I’m certain individuals wondered, ‘Charlsie Cantey on TV?’ Then, after observing her once or twice, you recognize, ‘Indeed, this is effective,’” Johnson remarked.
Despite Cantey’s struggle with anxiety during her three-decade broadcasting tenure, which encompassed roles with ABC, CBS, ESPN, and NBC at various points, she was an instant success.
“She was simply outstanding,” stated Johnson, a guide who developed into a close companion. “Her communication skills were effortless.”
Cantey possessed a deep understanding of horses, including exceptional ones, having exercised the renowned Ruffian. She communicated authentically, engaging viewers with her expertise, approachable manner, and charisma.
“What sustained me through it all, I believe, was my profound affection for the sport,” she shared in 2017. “My sole desire was to be present at the track, interacting with horses, and deeply engaged with them. Even now, I can hardly believe it.”
When Cantey began as an exercise rider, female participation was minimal. A significant portion were spouses of trainers. She recalls inquiring about a potential position with Frank Whiteley’s formidable stable.
“Dismiss that thought entirely,” she was advised. “He would absolutely not permit a woman in that stable area.”
Unfazed by such negativity, she persuaded Whiteley that she would be valuable.
“He was demanding,” Cantey commented, “but, truly, he possessed an exceptional group of horses.”
Frankly, equestrian pursuits were more natural for her than televised commentary. The instantaneous nature of live broadcasting caused her discomfort throughout her profession, prompting her to consult a hypnotist. This offered some relief in the half-decade preceding her 2005 retirement.
“No amount of preparation truly matters,” Cantey stated. “The moment the first camera starts recording, things can quickly spiral out of control.”
Cantey, naturally, succeeded beyond expectations.
“I never encountered any negative feedback about her, from either men or women,” Johnson explained. “I simply believed that my associates and those I held in esteem considered her an outstanding enhancement to televised horse racing.”
Cantey feels pleased realizing her contribution in opening doors for numerous women employed in the racing industry. She recalls a specific young woman whose mother had prohibited her from seeking track employment. This mother reversed her stance after observing Cantey on screen.
“Serving as a standard backstretch employee represented significant progress, and television marked a monumental advancement,” Cantey commented. “I observe all the skilled young women hosting paddock presentations, and the field has dramatically expanded.”
She reflected on her initial years, a time when finding a women’s lavatory near the stables was impossible, and when the chances of making a meaningful impact in a male-centric profession were incredibly slim.
“Things have truly progressed significantly, my dear,” she remarked.
Remark: This narrative was initially released in 2017 and has since been refreshed.
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