There cannot be a more unique racetrack announcer than Larry Lederman.
Hell, there couldn’t be another human being as unique as Larry Lederman.
Lawrence Brian Lederman died March 5 at his home in East Windsor, NJ, a few weeks after his 67th birthday.
Lederman’s survival for more than a decade with an inoperable brain tumor (winning the under/over game) is a testament to his sharp intelligence, unyielding faith, deep sense of humor, and wisdom. /stubborn to realize that the crowd loves him. wanted him around (don’t forget his many medical friends).
A close friend described Lederman as “a gentle and generous soul. His approach to treating cancer was to go as far as possible, which is why he was able to last so long.” so after his beloved wife and daughter passed away.”
…and he brought pies to the people who were taking care of him.
Born and raised in Manhattan, Lederman caught the track bug early on, even before sharing a microphone stand with a guy named Robin Williams.
He is an announcer extraordinaire with over three decades of thoroughbred/experience at Atlantic City Raceway, Freehold Raceway and New Jersey’s Garden State Park, and is an in-demand guest at many venues than this space allows.
His calls are clear, concise, humorous and above all, precise.
…then, there were voices.
Lederman interjected so many immediate impressions and dropped so many names in the race, you’d swear there was a fire hazard with that many people in the booth.
His Jackie Mason was so good that Jackie Mason wasn’t sure if he himself was really Jackie Mason.
The silver screen took notice of Lederman’s hiring as an off-camera announcer in the 1993 film “A Bronx Tale.”
There was also commercial voiceover work, but it was his passion for horses and his compassion for others that made Larry Larry.
Lederman was predeceased by his wife, Jodi, and their daughter, Leslie. Lederman is survived by his brother Alan; son, Scott; and nephew, Cayden LoBianco.
List his extended family, both in and out of racing (with thanks to the Christian Harness Horsemen’s Association and meadow) will take too long.
The irony is this: anyone who tries to be the next Larry Lederman will be little more than a poor imitation of someone who has never been a poor imitator.
Although Larry’s services were private, those who wish to honor him may consider donating to the organization. Christian Harness Horsemen’s Association or a charity related to cancer or end-of-life care.
