In a remarkable career that has spanned nearly four decades, Fred Cowgill took his final bow on May 29, 2024. The Emmy award-winning sportscaster wrapped up his tenure as the sports director for WLKY, marking an end of an era in Louisville sports journalism.
Celebrating a Storied Career
Throughout his career, Fred accumulated numerous accolades including 17 “Best of Louisville” Awards and the prestigious Kentucky Derby Festival’s Dean Eagle Award for service to horse racing. His peers recognized him as the Kentucky Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sports Media Association and he received multiple “Kentucky Best Sportscaster” Awards from the Associated Press.
Memories From the Early Years
The Emmy award-winning sportscaster’s journey is rich with memorable moments. Fred was a cornerstone in covering pivotal events like the Kentucky Derby and PGA Championship. His coverage included not only these prestigious sporting events but also deeply emotional stories like Muhammad Ali’s funeral, which earned him an Emmy.
Impacting Future Generations
Beyond his accolades, Fred has made significant contributions to aspiring journalists. Having run internship programs for over four decades, he has mentored hundreds of professionals, helping them carve successful careers in the industry. Among his mentees is Kent Taylor, who began his journey in sports journalism with an internship under Fred’s guidance during the summer of 1992.
A Final Month of Major Events
In his final days at WLKY, Fred Cowgill looked ahead to cover some last key events. His farewell month coincided with significant happenings, including the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby and the PGA Championship at Valhalla. This fitting conclusion underscores the vibrant and impactful career that Fred has had in Louisville sports journalism.
Follow Us
