Chad Rozema leaving to manage Grand River

TORONTO, February 23, 2023 – Woodbine Entertainment today announced that long-time on-air personality Chad Rozema will be leaving the organization to pursue a new opportunity.

Rozema originally joined Woodbine in 2007 as a commentator for HPItv before becoming a main stay host and analyst for Woodbine’s Standardbred harness racing simulcast coverage. He also served as a backup race caller and has contributed to Woodbine’s Thoroughbred and Standardbred social content.

Notably, Rozema has been a trusted host and analyst for Woodbine’s network coverage over the last decade-plus. Rozema contributed to Bet Night Live on The Score, Racing Night Live on TSN, and many of Woodbine’s marquee events, including The Queen’s Plate and Pepsi North America Cup.

“Chad has been an integral member of our Woodbine team, providing great enthusiasm and professionalism to our racing products and broadcasts,” said Jim Lawson, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment. “We will miss having Chad on the Woodbine team, but we’re excited to watch him excel in his new role. On behalf of Woodbine and our fans, I would like to thank Chad for his contributions and wish him the best of luck in his new endeavor.”

Rozema will fill the vacant role left after Jamie Martin retired in October 2022, after five years at GRR and overall 20-year career in the standardbred horse racing industry. This is a critical role for the success of the GRR racing season.

Rozema brings 16 years of experience working at Woodbine Entertainment as an on-air commentator and race announcer. Through the years, he has hosted in-house simulcast coverage for both standardbred and thoroughbred racing and network specials on TSN and The Score along with many special events.

“I’m excited to be joining the strong team at GRR and returning to my roots, says Chad Rozema. “Jamie is a former colleague I have a lot of respect for and I’m eager to help fill the void left by his departure. I look forward to continuing growing the great racing product and reputation GRR has in the community; the best years are still come.”

“He is an exceptional communicator and has a solid understanding of the wagering products, the horse racing industry, and race day operations,” says Rena Edmondson, HR Manager, Grand River Raceway. “Rozema’s experience, passion for the sport, and charismatic leadership style will be an asset leading the GRR operations.”

Rozema calls Elmira home with his wife and two children. He looks forward to working in Centre Wellington and of course welcoming back GRR race fans from all over! GRR is grateful to have Rozema to help grow their upcoming race season which begins June 2.

From Woodbine Communications and Grand River Raceway