Dave Johnson is a renowned sportscaster, best recognized for his role in calling Triple Crown races for ABC Radio and Television for over two decades, and subsequently, for Premiere Radio to the present day. His iconic catchphrase, "Down the stretch they come," has become synonymous with his profession.
Born and raised in the St. Louis area, Johnson spent five years, from 1972 to 1977, as the track announcer for Belmont, Aqueduct, and Saratoga racetracks in New York State. During this period, he also hosted a local TV racing show alongside Charlsie Cantey and Frank Wright.
In 1978, Johnson and Cantey joined Wright, a CBS Sports mainstay, and made their mark in the big leagues. Johnson called his first Derby for ABC-TV, while Cantey reported her first Belmont Stakes for CBS.
Johnson has been the lead thoroughbred announcer at New Jersey's Meadowlands Racetrack since its inaugural meet in 1977, featuring harness and thoroughbred racing. Additionally, he is a prominent commercial voice, having lent his voice to advertisements for Mobil Oil and a New York-area furniture outlet.
