Jay Cohen blowing his horn at Santa Anita. (Benoit Photo)
To perform music from c. 1900 at Rose Parade on Monday
By Mike Willman
Santa Anita’s popular Bugler, Jay Cohen, who is currently sidelined as he recovers from back surgery, will represent Santa Anita on a world-wide stage Monday as he performs while riding in a vintage carriage during the Rose Parade in Pasadena.
“My doctor gave me the green light,” said Cohen from his home in Glendora on Saturday morning. “I’m going to be riding in a carriage provided by Scripps Miramar Ranch and I’ll be sitting for the entire time.
I’m really looking forward to it. The carriage was built in 1901 and was originally used to bring people in and out of Yellowstone National Park.
“So, I’m going to be playing music from that era, from like 1900 to 1910. A lot of the song are well known today, so I’m looking forward to having some fun with it.
A ray of iconic sunshine to racegoers for nearly 36 years, Cohen has regaled fans of all ages on race days and at special events with magic tricks, impromptu soliloquies, jokes, world class musicianship and genuine kinship developed through his many years as one of California racing’s most recognizable figures.
Cohen, who started at Santa Anita on Dec. 26, 1987, and has performed at a total of 20 racetracks in eight states and two foreign countries, addressed his predicament via telephone as he took in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships on Saturday from his home in Glendora.
“I’ve always tried to stay very fit, but I’ve had issues with my neck and back for a number of years now,” he said. “A couple days before we were supposed to open on Sept. 29, I really couldn’t walk more than 20 feet without being in severe pain. That’s when I realized I was not going to be able to work until I got this fixed.
“I’m representing Santa Anita in the Rose Parade, so I had no choice but to get back to work!”
Call it a labor of love, and it’s a two-way street between Jay Cohen’s many thousands of fans and the man himself.
“My rehab is going well, so I hope to be back to the track by the middle of January.”
Here’s hoping!!
