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Downes appointed track announcer at Ellis Ellis Park has named Bill Downes as its new permanent announcer, with his debut scheduled for August 6. Downes, who currently calls the races at Presque Isle Downs, will replace the late Luke Kruytbosch. Interestingly, Kruytbosch mentored Downes throughout his announcing career and helped him polish his announcing skills. A resident of Columbus, Ohio, Downes has also called the races at Beulah Park and River Downs. As an accomplished handicapper and National Handicapping Championship qualifier, he uses his insight to deliver knowledgeable and original calls to race fans. "Bill is an incredible announcer, and we are very pleased to bring such an up-and-coming young talent to Ellis Park," track owner Ron Geary said. "Luke was a legend and one of the best announcers in the country. Luke is very difficult to replace, but we feel Bill will be a great addition to the Ellis Park team." Since Luke's passing on July 14, Ellis Park has patched together the meet with substitute announcers. Mike Battaglia from Turfway Park, and Keith Nelson from the Woodlands have both performed intermediate calling duties at Ellis Park this season. "We were grateful for Mike to come in at the last minute to fill in for us, and we have been very pleased and impressed with Keith," Geary said. An announcer has not yet been named to replace Downes at Presque Isle.
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