Latest news with #Denman
Buzz Feed
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
27 Things That'll Make Doing Your Hair Easier
A ring hair straightening brush so you can get sleek hair faster than ever before — no matter your hair type. This has five temperature settings and heats up in just 20 seconds, making it perfect for busy mornings (or impatient people lol). It's designed so you can't burn your ears or scalp, but you do have to hold your hair taut for it to work. And Briogeo's Heat Protectant Crème since you'll need a heat protectant — it shields your hair from high temps of up to 450 degrees F while using argan, coconut, and rosehip oils to smooth frizz and leave your hair soft and shiny. Definitely a great way to get that '90s celeb blowout look without much effort! Bunzee Bands for securely holding your hairstyle in place while being gentle on your hair and reducing tension on your scalp. These adjustable headbands are designed for thick, curly, natural hair (but work for all hair types) and can last up to two years. Plus, they don't create any creases or dents! Or a pack of two adjustable magnetic hair ties that are super easy to use — just wrap them around your hair and let the magnets snap together. You can twist and adjust them as needed for a tighter, more secure fit. A viral Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer so you can easily achieve a salon-level blowout right at home. It works on most hair types and textures and gets your hair camera ready in half the time since it simultaneously dries and styles. The amazing results do not match the minimal effort. An interlocking tool to help you start and maintain all types of locs, including sisterlocks, microlocs, butterfly locs, and most sizes of dreadlocks! It allows you to lock hair closer to your scalp without any of the pain or snagging that can happen with metal tools. A satin Kitsch heatless hair curler you simply wrap your hair around and tie around your head like a headband. It's great for overnight styles because it's easy to sleep in, and you'll wake up with perfect natural-looking beach waves. There's nothing lower effort than styling your hair while you're sleeping! A magical Denman hair brush that went viral on CurlyTok for how well it works. The evenly spaced bristles help detangle and distribute product evenly throughout your hair while helping to shape your curls. (Tip: Twist your hand while using it to create perfect spirals!) It's genuinely never been easier to get and revive defined curls! Carrie Bradshaw would've loved this thing. A 2-in-1 hair bun maker so throwing your hair up in a "perfect effortless bun" is actually effortless. You can do full buns or half-up looks, or truly whatever your imagination cooks up. Plus, you can put this in your hair as it air dries to get gorgeous waves. Sexy Hair's volumizing and texturizing powder for the thin-haired folks! Just sprinkle a little bit on your roots, and bam — instant lift and texture. It's great for creating that effortlessly tousled look or adding bounce to a flat style, and it doesn't leave any residue — the ultimate cheat code for voluminous hair. A boar-bristle teasing brush if you're into big, bouncy hair or killer sleek looks. The bristles are super gentle on your hair while still getting the job done, and the tapered handle makes it easy to part your hair. So, whether you're going for a voluminous look or need to slick your hair back, this brush is your new best friend. A banana hair clip for securely holding your hair in place and keeping it out of your face with a cute style that will be the center of attention. It's got a curved shape that grips your hair well, so you don't have to worry about it slipping or falling out. Plus, the teeth are thin enough to slide through your roots without getting caught and tangled. An Ebin New York 24-hour edge tamer to help lay your edges without any flakiness, residue or product buildup from repeated use. It's also enriched with castor oil, leaving you with a smooth finish that has a natural shine. A two-pack of satin bow clips so you can have *perfectly* tied bows without the struggle. They're the perfect finishing touch to half-updos and elevate basic 'fits — imagine a hoodie, leggings, and a cute bow! Plus, reviewers love how secure and sturdy they are. And a pack of satin ribbon scrunchies that are not only adorable but also super gentle on your hair and can help reduce breakage and creasing. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, so you can match them to your outfit or mood. Now you'll actually look forward to doing your hair! A two-pack of crochet bandanas for an easy fix on the days you really don't have the energy to wash your hair, but even dry shampoo can't save it. These add some cottagecore vibes to your 'fit, and the knit material helps keep them securely on your head (unlike those satin scarves that make your head feel like a slip 'n' slide). A 28-piece pack of barrettes with a variety of beautiful patterns and shapes. Like jewelry (but for your hair), they add ~pizzazz~ while also keeping loose strands out of your face. Reviewers love how sturdy and gorgeous these are + how well they hold your hair in place! A benzene-free I Dew Care mattifying powder shampoo for when you have back-to-back events and can't get a hair wash day in. Just tap it onto your scalp, and it'll absorb the excess grease and mattify your roots so you can make it that extra day before washing. This stuff is GREAT to have while traveling, especially in places with hard water that can damage your hair; plus, it's not a liquid or aerosol, which = TSA-friendly. French concord curved clips reviewers love for their no-slip grip, so your hairstyle will stay PUT all day long no matter how thick or slippery your hair is. If you love the vibe of a traditional French hair pin but can't get it to stay in place, give this a try! Expandable bird nest hair clips so you can get a cute painless updo with a gentle grip so you don't have to worry about straining your roots or the accompanying pain. The innovative design works for a variety of hair thicknesses and keeps your ponytail or bun neat and secure without slipping or pulling. Lottabody's Coconut Oil Foaming Curl Mousse to help create uniform, well-defined curls throughout your hair while leaving it feeling soft and nourished. Its hydrating formula includes a blend of coconut and shea oils that reviewers say leaves their hair shiny (but *not* greasy)! A claw clip that can serve as the statement piece to your outfit, even if you're just wearing jeans and a T-shirt. Other clips are not giving ~functional art~ like this one. An adjustable satin bonnet because how your hair holds up overnight can make or break how much time you need to spend styling it (especially with curly hair). You can tie it as snugly as needed so it stays put all night, which will help lock in moisture, reduce frizz, and prevent tangling so that doing your hair is *much* easier the next day. Some corkscrew Goody hair pins so you no longer need to use half your bobby pin collection to secure an updo and then go on a scavenger hunt to take them all out. These will keep your bun locked in place so you can tear up the dance floor without worrying about redoing your hair. A Living Proof de-frizzer for those days when your hair has a mind of its own and you need it to behave. Whether you've got curly, straight, or wavy hair, this stuff tames frizz, controls flyaways, and keeps everything sleek and smooth without weighing it down. A tousled clip-in bun that'll get you the perfect messy bun on the first try every. single. time. You can literally just plop it on and be on your way. And it comes in a bunch of natural hair colors so you can find your perfect match! Or a faux puff extension if you have curly hair and want something similar to your natural texture!
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
How social media is transforming wedding days
A wedding content creator said described how more couples are embracing seeing their big day through the candid lens of a mobile phone. Geared with just an iPhone, Beth Denman, 25, and her team take thousands of photos and videos during weddings, which are edited into short form content for social media. She started Social Scenes from her home in Attleborough, Norfolk, two years ago and has now grown it into a team of five. "It's very candid and in the moment... it's the moments that are often missed by the bride and groom," Ms Denman said. She first discovered wedding content creation in 2023, on social media posts from Australia. Ms Denman estimated that, at the time, there were just three other wedding creators in Norfolk. "I thought that I could totally do this. I noticed that no-one was really doing it in Norfolk," she said. She estimates there are now about 20 people providing a similar service across the county. The wedding planning website, Hitched, has reported a 586% rise in searches for wedding content creators in 2025. Ms Denman said she plays the role of the "uninvited but invited guest". "We blend in with the shadows and we gravitate around the wedding to capture different parts," she added. Wedding creators such as Ms Denman work alongside traditional photographers and videographers to capture the big day. Although they may seem similar, Ms Denman said wedding creators worked candidly, sometimes providing content for couples within 24 hours. "I think if people see it as the death of the photographer or videographer, they're getting the complete wrong conception," she added. "Content creators aren't a replacement for anybody... we are an addition." Wedding photographer Ellie Gillard agrees that the services they provide differ. Ms Gillard has been a wedding photographer in Norfolk and London for 14 years, and has photographed more than 400 weddings. "Content creators serve a different purpose in the grand scheme of things," she said. "It's great for people who are very present on social media - the content that they give you are almost instant. "But people have had photographers at their wedding since photography began, and it fits that tradition." She has previously worked with content creators and believes their job is not as simple as some may think. "The growth of content creators means that some people think it's fun, that they can turn up and just point their phones at things," she said. "But there is more to it than that... it's really important that you blend into the day seamlessly." Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. Wedding venue extensively damaged by fire 'Unforgettable day': The wedding with almost 100 bridesmaids 'Charity shops are about the thrill of the thrift'
Buzz Feed
24-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
This Old-School Luxury Hairbrush Is Suddenly Everywhere On TikTok
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. This splurgeworthy hairbrush is having a Gen Z revival — and we found some alternatives. For as long as I can remember, a Mason Pearson hairbrush has been the hair care status symbol. In middle school, the sight of one on a bathroom counter was the ultimate indicator of fanciness. 30 years later, I still covet this British heritage brand hair brush, but it appears that I am now not alone. In recent months, the Mason Pearson brush has acquired a passionate Gen Z fanbase that has taken their fervor to TikTok. A huge part of this brush's appeal is its timeless construction and gorgeous craftsmanship. The brand has a few brush options, including one made solely of boar bristles, but the combination boar and nylon bristle brush is currently de rigueur. According to legions of users, the boar bristles are notorious for smoothing out even the frizziest of hair, leaving it shiny and soft, while the stiff nylon bristles stimulate the scalp, which can, in turn, help with growth and overall scalp health. The Washington Post recently noted the brush's newfound popularity among young folks. The women they interviewed all pointed out that along with the inevitable clout that accompanies this pricey hairbrush, 'the volume, shine, and the ability to go longer between washes makes it arguably worth the price tag.' Despite the fanfare, I've never been one to commit to pricey hair care products, which is why I'm on the hunt for a similar hairbrush inspired by the classic. Luckily, there are a fair amount out there. Below are the highly-rated doppelgangers I found at various price points — I even found an option on Etsy for just $22.71 —so you can pick one up for yourself (or treat yourself to the OG). 1. Denman Style and Shine brush Amazon The highly popular and significantly more affordable Denman brush is one of the internet's most popular alternatives to the original Mason Pearson. It features a mix of nylon and natural boar bristles that are dispersed throughout the brush head in a very similar manner to that of the Mason Pearson — it's safe to say reviewers love it. Promising reviews: "This brush is amazing! My hair has never looked as soft as it does when I use this brush. The bristles get every part of your hair and leaves it looking shiny." — Alexis "For a natural way to smooth and shine your hair, this boar bristle hair brush is a great choice. It helps distribute oils from the scalp, leaving hair feeling healthier and looking glossy. Plus, it's gentle enough for daily use." — REQM Get it from Amazon for $27.95+ (available in two sizes). 2. Briogeo vegan boar bristle brush Amazon If animal products are not for you, then try this vegan option from Biogeo. It can smooth and detangle all hair types — straight, wavy, curly and coiled — with ease. It can help to keep your locks and scalp healthy thanks to its gentle massaging prowess and you can keep your conscience clear knowing it's made with cruelty-free materials. Promising reviews: "This one reviewed well and I took a chance with it, not wanting to go the boar bristle option. It absolutely paid off, is a fantastic brush, smooths without frizz - highly recommended for straight-wavy thick hair." — Vanessa P. "This is my all time favorite brush. It's perfect to brush out hair without causing damage. It also helps with frizz" — Sammy the Cat Jr. 4. Varis smoothing brush This lightweight brush features a soft-touch handle that feels comfortable, a must when working on a fancy updo. Editorial director Kristen Aiken owns one and said, "My whole life, no one had ever taught me about the importance of scalp health — until I started experiencing a ton of shedding in my late 30s, which naturally concerned me. I had always used the free 'gift with purchase' mini plastic brush from my mom's Clinique purchases in the '90s and figured any brush that detangled my hair was just as good as all the others. But when I spoke to my dermatologist about my shedding concerns, she told me I needed a brush that would be gentler on my strands (those plastic Clinique bristles were breaking my hair) and also something that would stimulate my scalp." She went on to explain that, "She recommended this Varis brush, and after using it regularly for a few minutes every night I've noticed a big difference. I have fine, wavy hair that fluffs up when I brush it, but the Varis brush eliminates extra static to keep it somewhat under control, too. I'm sure there are other great brushes that'll do the trick, but I've found that having a nice brush like this one made brushing a more regular part of my routine, and has cause significantly less shedding." Promising review: "Feels fabulous on scalp. Works well on both wet and dry hair (I have very thick, long hair). I had been looking for the 'same brush' as I had purchased 20 years ago (for $250). And this is amazingly as close as I have found, and it feels just the same! I actually prefer the plastic handle versus the heavy wooden one - ladies, you all know every ounce counts in that checked bag when traveling." — Mitzi Kipnes Amazon This budget-friendly brush is beloved by reviewers on Amazon, who note that it leaves hair feeling silky smooth and that it can be used safely while blow-drying without warping. It also makes for a great gift. One reviewer pointed out that it's gentle on her fragile, graying hair, leaving even coarse, thick strands nice and shiny. Promising reviews: " High quality. Hands down the best brush next to the mason Pearson brush. Great for thick hair, as well." — Eddie Kramer "I've not stopped brushing my hair. It rubbed my scalp so nice. Each strand feels bushed. My scalp feels so clean after brushing and washing. Would totally buy again." — Ashley Get it from Amazon for $47.95+ (available in three sizes). 6. Crown Affair The Brush No. 001 Sephora I'm a big fan of Crown Affair products, and their combination boar and nylon bristle brush is high on my wishlist. The handcrafted beechwood handle adds to the luxurious look and feel, while the quality of the bristles is comparable to those of the Mason Pearson (according to users). I also love the sleek aesthetic, it's perfectly minimalist and Instagrammable. Promising reviews: "100% worth every penny you can instantly feel the difference when brushing your hair with an expensive brush like this rather than a cheap drugstore brush. your hair deserves the best quality brush and ill probably never use another brush again." — SaryaRose "Instant improvement! I have very oily and fine, straight hair. My hair always feels thin as well, and even after the first use I noticed more volume and the oils redistributed through my hair that gives me so much shine and body, and my hair continues to improve with use. Worth every penny!" — AllieG31 Get it from Sephora for $98. 7. Oribe flat brush Amazon For a bit of visual flair, take a peek at the custom-designed Italian resin handle on this Oribe brush. The boar bristles and rounded nylon pins will leave your hair looking shiny and sleek while also stimulating your scalp and distributing natural oils throughout for an ultra-polished (never greasy) look. Reviewers note that it's a great option for hair extensions! Promising reviews: "My hairstylist is amazed .. she is buying one after I showed her mine. My hair has significantly improved!!! Way less maintenance. Saves so much time" — Alexandra Dominique Schmitt zermers "I was recommended a boar bristle brush by my hairstylist. I searched through many on Amazon, and out of all reviews by Amazon and the website, I decided to go with this above all others. I was praying that due to the price of this brush it would be a miracle worker compared to the others out here….well I can happily say I LOVE this brush. If anything happens to my original I WILL be getting myself another one! I have felt with dry scalp and build up for the last year or two. My hair was starting to produce so much oil. Since I started using this my scalp has had no buildup, no dandruff, and believe it or not has made my hair soft, shiny and SO unbelievably healthy. I can't help but brush my hair all day (not a good thing ahaha) the bush is a turtle shell style medium weight and high quality. The bristles have not fallen out but it does get dirty easily like any brush would, so definitely clean it as much as possible to keep the quality! I got the larger brush and the size is perfect to fit in a standard purse or to store in a drawer." — Dakota Jones 8. The Mason Pearson mixed bristle hair brush Amazon Last but not least: The brush that started it all. While Mason Pearson does offer a boar bristle-only hair brush, the mixed bristle option with both boar bristles and nylon bristles is the most popular of the two. Famed for its ability to distribute the hair's natural oils and stimulate the scalp, it's great for all hair types. If the large brush is too rich for your blood, you can always consider opting for a smaller size, which is slightly more affordable but just as beautifully crafted and effective. Promising reviews: "High quality brush that will last forever. I bought my granddaughter one for a milestone birthday. She loves it. I have had mine for decades and use it daily. It is gentle on the hair and scalp." — Dolesh "The best ever for your hair and scalp health. Decided to put in the investment, do not regret it one bit. Not sure why it works but it does. It takes a bit to get used to the bristles of your scalp is sensitive. I have fine older hair but it detangles no problem" — pfdez Get it in full size from Amazon for $275 or the pocket size for $140.
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Appreciation: How Trevor Denman revolutionized the art of horse race calling
The legend of Trevor Denman began more than four decades ago in the area behind the top of the stretch at Santa Anita where all the executive offices sit. This unassuming, slightly built 31-year-old from South Africa was able to work his way into the office of Frank (Jimmy) Kilroe, the senior vice president at, arguably, the best horse racing track in the country. Or at least west of the Mississippi. The request was simple. He wanted to call a race at Santa Anita. Yes, he had the credentials. He had called races in South Africa for 12 years at three different tracks. He wasn't asking for much, just a chance. Kilroe, being the veteran executive he was, did the obvious: He pawned the request onto someone else. At that time, no one was aware of how big Denman would become in the race-calling world in California and nationally. Or how he would change the face of calling horse races in this country. Denman, 72, announced on Thursday that he is retiring from Del Mar, his final stop in a lifetime devoted to telling people what happens during a race. Read more: Inside California horse racing's complex problems that could hurt the sport nationwide Back to Santa Anita. The task with what to do with this uninvited guest with big ambitions was lateraled to Alan Balch, who, also in his 30s and head of marketing and public relations at Santa Anita, made a decision that would change the face of how races are called in the United States. 'I said, 'What? This is Santa Anita,'' Balch, currently the executive director of the California Thoroughbred Trainers, recalled when meeting Denman for the first time. 'I would like to call a race,' Denman said. 'This isn't just any place,' Balch said. 'I know, that's why I want to call a race at Santa Anita. I call the races in Durbin and it would be an honor if I could call a race here,' Denman retorted. 'We don't let just anyone call a race here,' Balch said before sending Denman outside his office for a few minutes. Balch called Bill Kolberg, who was an assistant in the press box who handled notes and quotes. Balch knew Kolberg had just been to Africa and had visited a few race tracks, including Durbin. 'Alan, you've got to have this guy,' Kolberg said. 'For sure there's no down side. Let him call a race.' Balch did and the rest is … well, you know the rest. The race, the ninth and last on the card, was not easy. It was a 12-horse field, it was raining and the track was sloppy. Read more: Legendary horse race caller Trevor Denman announces his retirement Dave Johnson was the regular race caller at the time and he was never adverse to skipping the last race on the card to avoid the traffic to get home. 'Trevor called the race like it was the Epsom Derby,' Balch remembered. 'He called every horse a couple of times. The press box, full of the usual cynics, started saying 'Who is this guy?' And as we know those guys are not prone to compliment anyone, especially someone brand new.' After the race, Balch was escorting Denman downstairs and walked past a customer relations booth. 'The woman working it stopped me and asked who was the race caller,' Balch said. 'I said, 'He's right here.'' This is where things could go either way especially as the woman held up a stack of customer complaint sheets. Except they weren't complaints. 'Who is this guy? You have to hire him was what the feedback was all about,' Balch said. Balch then booked Denman to call the fifth race the next day and suddenly Johnson was heading toward the end of a contract that was not renewed. Denman called races at Fairplex Park and the Oak Tree meeting at Santa Anita before assuming the full-time role at Santa Anita in 1984. He later called Hollywood Park and Golden Gate Fields. He kept that role at Santa Anita until 2016 when he reduced his schedule to just call Del Mar. He called every season there, barring the COVID-19 year, until this year. Denman, somewhat media shy but always friendly, told the Del Mar media relations department: 'This is one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. But my soul is telling me that now is the time.' Even though Denman had one of the best jobs in racing at Santa Anita and Del Mar, he still had some work to do. 'He had a very strong South African accent,' Balch said. 'He would say things like 'Santer Aniter' and 'Bull Shoemaker.' He knew he had some changes to make. [Director of publicity] Jane [Goldstein] and I called Universal seeking some help. 'Robert Easton, a legendary dialogue coach, had a meeting with Trevor, who was polite but reluctant. The coach asked 'How do you want him to sound?'' Within 30 days, Denman sounded just like he did until he retired. There isn't a race caller today who hasn't been influenced by Denman. 'I'm not exaggerating when saying that during my high school years, I would rather listen to Trevor call a race with no video than watch a race with no audio,' said Frank Mirahmadi, who currently calls races at Santa Anita and Saratoga. Larry Collmus, who will succeed Denman at Del Mar's summer season, was equally as complimentary. 'Growing up in Maryland I listened to different race callers from around the country,' Collmus said. 'I realized he's different and he's great. I have completely enjoyed his work over the years. 'The one thing he did that no one before him did is paint a picture of what is going to happen. He could pick up a winner early in the race. He had that horse sense about him and how horses are traveling and what they should have left in the tank. I was amazed by that.' Collmus, who was also hired by Balch to work Golden Gate Fields, worked part-time with Denman in 1988 in Northern California. 'I learned so much from him,' Collmus said. 'He taught me part of his craft and how he picks up those moves in a race.' Read more: Santa Anita race caller's dream job turns dark after learning of death threats Balch, who brushes off hiring two of the game's best race callers as just part of the job, could not compliment Denman enough. 'Trevor revolutionized American race calling and that's not an overstatement,' Balch said. 'Up until Trevor everyone called the horses in the order with not a lot of foreshadowing. 'Trevor would call the names of jockeys and the lengths from the first to last horse. He paints a picture. You can see the race developing. One of his greatest assets is at the half-mile pole you could tell from the tenor in his voice if he spotted a horse that was up in the bridle had a big chance. That was double-edged sword. Some fans did not like that when he would say 'The favorite is all through.'' Denman is noted for several signature phrases, such as 'they will need wings to catch him' or 'coming like an express train' or 'scraping the paint' when a horse was on the rail. But everyone remembers his first words as the horses came out of the gate: 'And away they go.' Santa Anita was legendary for its race callers. Denman was following in the voice-steps of Joe Hernandez, whose signature 'There they go,' started every race. Hernandez collapsed while calling a race at Santa Anita after being kicked by a horse earlier in the day across-town at Hollywood Park. He died several days later despite reports that he died while calling a race. Santa Anita went through a couple of big names in Chic Anderson and Johnson before Denman became the voice of the track. But there was one thing he needed to do, almost in tribute to Hernandez. He needed a phrase to start the race. Balch discussed it with him and Denman offered up 'And away they go.' It was a phrase that he used tens of thousands of times. Perhaps Denman's fondness for singling out jockeys comes from his childhood desire to be one. But, he outgrew his dreams but never forgot the men and women riding the horse. He was especially conscious of when jockeys would gently hand-ride a horse to victory. Collmus, who as the voice of NBC's Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Breeders' Cup coverage, is certainly no newcomer to the landscape as Denman was when he assumed the top spot at Santa Anita and Del Mar. He was the voice of New York racing for several years and has spent the last five years calling the fall meeting at Del Mar. He also serves as an analyst for FanDuel TV. Read more: Will California ever approve Historical Horse Racing machines to help save the sport? It's not the first time Collmus has been asked to replace a legend. He succeeded Tom Durkin in 2015 in New York. 'It's a daunting task that I'm looking forward to again,' Collmus said. 'I had to win over the fans at Saratoga and I'm hoping to do the same at Del Mar. 'The fall meet is a different atmosphere. I'm looking forward to experience that opening day feeling. 'Trevor would talk about the roar of the crowd when the meeting would start. Durkin would also get the crowd stirred up. Trevor could turn the crowd up to an 11. Hopefully I can engage the crowd and enjoy that opening day roar.' It may seem strange for Del Mar to have a packed house without Trevor Denman. But, happily ensconced on his 500-acre farm in Minnesota, he will one day grasp the impact he had on horse racing and how he revolutionized the art of race calling. Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Los Angeles Times
10-03-2025
- Sport
- Los Angeles Times
Appreciation: How Trevor Denman revolutionized the art of horse race calling
The legend of Trevor Denman began more than four decades ago in the area behind the top of the stretch at Santa Anita where all the executive offices sit. This unassuming, slightly built 31-year-old from South Africa was able to work his way into the office of Frank (Jimmy) Kilroe, the senior vice president at, arguably, the best horse racing track in the country. Or at least west of the Mississippi. The request was simple. He wanted to call a race at Santa Anita. Yes, he had the credentials. He had called races in South Africa for 12 years at three different tracks. He wasn't asking for much, just a chance. Kilroe, being the veteran executive he was, did the obvious: He pawned the request onto someone else. At that time, no one was aware of how big Denman would become in the race-calling world in California and nationally. Or how he would change the face of calling horse races in this country. Denman, 72, announced on Thursday that he is retiring from Del Mar, his final stop in a lifetime devoted to telling people what happens during a race. Back to Santa Anita. The task with what to do with this uninvited guest with big ambitions was lateraled to Alan Balch, who, also in his 30s and head of marketing and public relations at Santa Anita, made a decision that would change the face of how races are called in the United States. 'I said, 'What? This is Santa Anita,'' Balch, currently the executive director of the California Thoroughbred Trainers, recalled when meeting Denman for the first time. 'I would like to call a race,' Denman said. 'This isn't just any place,' Balch said. 'I know, that's why I want to call a race at Santa Anita. I call the races in Durbin and it would be an honor if I could call a race here,' Denman retorted. 'We don't let just anyone call a race here,' Balch said before sending Denman outside his office for a few minutes. Balch called Bill Kolberg, who was an assistant in the press box who handled notes and quotes. Balch knew Kolberg had just been to Africa and had visited a few race tracks, including Durbin. 'Alan, you've got to have this guy,' Kolberg said. 'For sure there's no down side. Let him call a race.' Balch did and the rest is … well, you know the rest. The race, the ninth and last on the card, was not easy. It was a 12-horse field, it was raining and the track was sloppy. Dave Johnson was the regular race caller at the time and he was never adverse to skipping the last race on the card to avoid the traffic to get home. 'Trevor called the race like it was the Epsom Derby,' Balch remembered. 'He called every horse a couple of times. The press box, full of the usual cynics, started saying 'Who is this guy?' And as we know those guys are not prone to compliment anyone, especially someone brand new.' After the race, Balch was escorting Denman downstairs and walked past a customer relations booth. 'The woman working it stopped me and asked who was the race caller,' Balch said. 'I said, 'He's right here.'' This is where things could go either way especially as the woman held up a stack of customer complaint sheets. Except they weren't complaints. 'Who is this guy? You have to hire him was what the feedback was all about,' Balch said. Balch then booked Denman to call the fifth race the next day and suddenly Johnson was heading toward the end of a contract that was not renewed. Denman called races at Fairplex Park and the Oak Tree meeting at Santa Anita before assuming the full-time role at Santa Anita in 1984. He later called Hollywood Park and Golden Gate Fields. He kept that role at Santa Anita until 2016 when he reduced his schedule to just call Del Mar. He called every season there, barring the COVID-19 year, until this year. Denman, somewhat media shy but always friendly, told the Del Mar media relations department: 'This is one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. But my soul is telling me that now is the time.' Even though Denman had one of the best jobs in racing at Santa Anita and Del Mar, he still had some work to do. 'He had a very strong South African accent,' Balch said. 'He would say things like 'Santer Aniter' and 'Bull Shoemaker.' He knew he had some changes to make. [Director of publicity] Jane [Goldstein] and I called Universal seeking some help. 'Robert Easton, a legendary dialogue coach, had a meeting with Trevor, who was polite but reluctant. The coach asked 'How do you want him to sound?'' Within 30 days, Denman sounded just like he did until he retired. There isn't a race caller today who hasn't been influenced by Denman. 'I'm not exaggerating when saying that during my high school years, I would rather listen to Trevor call a race with no video than watch a race with no audio,' said Frank Mirahmadi, who currently calls races at Santa Anita and Saratoga. Larry Collmus, who will succeed Denman at Del Mar's summer season, was equally as complimentary. 'Growing up in Maryland I listened to different race callers from around the country,' Collmus said. 'I realized he's different and he's great. I have completely enjoyed his work over the years. 'The one thing he did that no one before him did is paint a picture of what is going to happen. He could pick up a winner early in the race. He had that horse sense about him and how horses are traveling and what they should have left in the tank. I was amazed by that.' Collmus, who was also hired by Balch to work Golden Gate Fields, worked part-time with Denman in 1988 in Northern California. 'I learned so much from him,' Collmus said. 'He taught me part of his craft and how he picks up those moves in a race.' Balch, who brushes off hiring two of the game's best race callers as just part of the job, could not compliment Denman enough. 'Trevor revolutionized American race calling and that's not an overstatement,' Balch said. 'Up until Trevor everyone called the horses in the order with not a lot of foreshadowing. 'Trevor would call the names of jockeys and the lengths from the first to last horse. He paints a picture. You can see the race developing. One of his greatest assets is at the half-mile pole you could tell from the tenor in his voice if he spotted a horse that was up in the bridle had a big chance. That was double-edged sword. Some fans did not like that when he would say 'The favorite is all through.'' Denman is noted for several signature phrases, such as 'they will need wings to catch him' or 'coming like an express train' or 'scraping the paint' when a horse was on the rail. But everyone remembers his first words as the horses came out of the gate: 'And away they go.' Santa Anita was legendary for its race callers. Denman was following in the voice-steps of Joe Hernandez, whose signature 'There they go,' started every race. Hernandez collapsed while calling a race at Santa Anita after being kicked by a horse earlier in the day across-town at Hollywood Park. He died several days later despite reports that he died while calling a race. Santa Anita went through a couple of big names in Chic Anderson and Johnson before Denman became the voice of the track. But there was one thing he needed to do, almost in tribute to Hernandez. He needed a phrase to start the race. Balch discussed it with him and Denman offered up 'And away they go.' It was a phrase that he used tens of thousands of times. Perhaps Denman's fondness for singling out jockeys comes from his childhood desire to be one. But, he outgrew his dreams but never forgot the men and women riding the horse. He was especially conscious of when jockeys would gently hand-ride a horse to victory. Collmus, who as the voice of NBC's Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Breeders' Cup coverage, is certainly no newcomer to the landscape as Denman was when he assumed the top spot at Santa Anita and Del Mar. He was the voice of New York racing for several years and has spent the last five years calling the fall meeting at Del Mar. He also serves as an analyst for FanDuel TV. It's not the first time Collmus has been asked to replace a legend. He succeeded Tom Durkin in 2015 in New York. 'It's a daunting task that I'm looking forward to again,' Collmus said. 'I had to win over the fans at Saratoga and I'm hoping to do the same at Del Mar. 'The fall meet is a different atmosphere. I'm looking forward to experience that opening day feeling. 'Trevor would talk about the roar of the crowd when the meeting would start. Durkin would also get the crowd stirred up. Trevor could turn the crowd up to an 11. Hopefully I can engage the crowd and enjoy that opening day roar.' It may seem strange for Del Mar to have a packed house without Trevor Denman. But, happily ensconced on his 500-acre farm in Minnesota, he will one day grasp the impact he had on horse racing and how he revolutionized the art of race calling.
