Rowan Ward is a horse racing writer and handicapper based in Chicago, with more than a decade of experience following and betting on the sport. They have been attending the races regularly since the 2013 Arlington Million and have become a familiar presence on the local circuit, especially at Hawthorne Race Course.
Their racing coverage focuses on national stakes races, Chicago-area racing, and pedigree analysis. Author profiles on betting sites describe Rowan as someone who values pace-based handicapping, with a particular interest in local Chicago races, major stakes contests around the country, and two-year-old maiden races with strong bloodlines.
Beyond local racing, Rowan has attended some of the sport’s biggest events, including the Breeders’ Cup, Kentucky Derby, and Woodbine Mile. Their work has appeared on their own blog and across horse racing websites, and they are also listed by America’s Best Racing as a chartcaller at Hawthorne Race Track.
Education
BA, University of Chicago.
JD, Washington University in St. Louis.
Professional Achievements
- Chartcaller at Hawthorne Race Track
- More than a decade attending and handicapping races in Chicago
- Published sports writer with extensive coverage across regional platforms
Latest from Rowan Ward
Florida Derby: Gulfstream-loving Nearly can extend win streak
2026/03/26
Cheltenham Gold Cup: Haiti Couleurs is well suited to distance
2026/03/12
Fountain of Youth: Commandment can make Kentucky Derby trail impact
2026/02/25
John Battaglia Memorial: Two Out Hero can stand tall on return
2026/02/19
Pegasus World Cup: All roads lead through Tappan Street
2026/01/22
Lecomte Stakes: It's all systems go for Stop the Car
2026/01/15
Arima Kinen: Museum Mile is ready for a masterpiece
2025/12/29
Breeders' Cup Classic: Local prep is key for Fierceness
2025/10/31
Arc de Triomphe: Minnie Hauk looms large but longshots can go close
2025/10/03
Pennsylvania Derby: Gosger can work the right trip
2025/09/18
Natalma Stakes: Dixie Law is price play in competitive turf race
2025/09/11
Travers Stakes: Sovereignty can stay atop the division
2025/08/21
Arlington Million: Fort Washington can step into spotlight
2025/08/07
Haskell Stakes: Preakness winner Journalism is ready for triumphant return
2025/07/17
Diana Stakes: Division leader She Feels Pretty can shine once more
2025/07/11
Belmont Stakes 2025: Baeza can step into spotlight
2025/06/04
Kentucky Derby 2025: Burnham Square can work the right trip
2025/04/29