The Ron Flatter Racing Pod

What may be a rainy renewal of the Grade 1 Pennsylvania Derby is the highlight of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Track announcer Jessica Paquette previews the $1 million race and talks about her groundbreaking year at Parx Racing. Jockey Florent Géroux talks about his ride on Saudi Crown in the Penn Derby as well as his other stakes mounts on the undercard. Handicapper Ed DeRosa has tips not only for the big races at Parx but also the Oklahoma Derby at Remington Park. Listener feedback is focused on the calls to replace racing and playing surfaces that are widely regarded as unsafe in their sports. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The road to Kentucky Derby 150 begins this weekend, and it is the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas talks about Market Street and Seize the Grey, his two starters in the Grade 3 Iroquois Stakes that christens the points preps for 2023-24. He also has some early details on the yearlings he has been involved in buying at this week's Keeneland sale. TV analyst Joe Kristufek looks at the Iroquois as well as other stakes this weekend at Churchill Downs. He also talks about his own year in racing that took him to Fair Grounds and Ellis Park. The Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch has tips for the five stakes races Saturday at Churchill Downs. There is feedback from last week's discussion of takeout and racing's relationship with sports betting. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The big-money meet at Kentucky Downs plus closing weekend at Del Mar and Colonial Downs are the talking points on this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Vice president of racing Ted Nicholson and National Horseplayers Championship Hall of Famer Chris Larmey talk about Kentucky Downs' ongoing growth and its 1 percent increase in takeout this year. Trainer Michael McCarthy discusses his young horses who are racing in Grade 1 stakes at Del Mar. Horse Racing Nation's Mark Midland handicaps weekend races at Kentucky Downs and Colonial Downs, including the Virginia Derby. Listeners and readers offer their feedback on the way the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority does business. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The Grade 1, $1 million Pacific Classic, a win-and-you're-in qualifier for the Breeders' Cup Classic, is the centerpiece of this week's episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hall of Fame trainer Richard Mandella talks about his morning-line favorite Geaux Rocket Ride, who won for him this summer in the Haskell (G1). He also discusses his other entries in the graded stakes Saturday at Del Mar. FanDuel TV's Andie Biancone offers the story of her life in horse racing and how it has turned to being a TV analyst. She offers her opinions of how the Pacific Classic horses are looking headed into this weekend's race. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty handicaps not only the Pacific Classic but also Friday's Saranac (G3) and Saturday's Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1), both at Saratoga. Listener and reader feedback is focused on the tragic death last week of New York Thunder in the H. Allen Jerkens Memorial (G1) at Saratoga. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The mid-summer derby at Saratoga formally known as the Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers Stakes is the focus of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. TV analyst Andy Serling from Fox Sports and the New York Racing Association previews the race and offers his thoughts about the Saratoga summer. At this time last year the 80-1 winner of the 2022 Kentucky Derby was getting ready for the Travers. What is going on now with Rich Strike, who has raced only once since November? His owner Rick Dawson provides details. Horse Racing Nation's Ed DeRosa handicaps weekend Grade 1 races at Saratoga including the Travers, the H. Allen Jerkens Memorial and the Sword Dancer. There is also listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and one last time on Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The King's Plate at Woodbine and a tribute to the late Jerry Moss are featured this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Track announcer Robert Geller discusses Canada's biggest race and trends that have developed through the entire meet. A 2010 interview with Moss, owner of Zenyatta and Giacomo, has been brought back from the archives and will be played in honor of the man who was iconic in racing and in the music industry. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty handicaps the Alabama (G1) and the Lake Placid (G2) at Saratoga, and there is listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The Grade 1 Arlington Million has a new home at Colonial Downs in Virginia, and that is this week's venue for the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Adrian Beaumont of the International Racing Bureau provides insight into the rebuilding of the Million and the horses from Europe who will be in this weekend's featured stakes. Trainer Michael Stidham discusses United Nations (G1) runner-up Catnip's bid to win the Arlington Million. David Levitch handicaps weekend races at Colonial Downs and Saratoga, and there is listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Cody's Wish returns in the Grade 1 Whitney Stakes at Saratoga, and that puts him in the spotlight for this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. His Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott talks about the challenge of his extending to 1 1/8 miles this weekend. He also discusses his sprint star Elite Power. Tom Law of The Saratoga Special examines the shrinking field sizes in the Spa's top stakes as well as the controversy over last week's Jim Dandy Stakes won by Forte. He also offers his thoughts about the Whitney. Mark Midland handicaps five stakes and two other weekend races at Saratoga. Listener and reader feedback focuses on jockey safety as well as moves announced by The Stronach Group since it said it would close Golden Gate Fields. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Summertime stakes at Saratoga and Del Mar and concerns about rider safety are the hot topics on the table for the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Fox Sports and New York Racing Association TV analyst Sara Elbadwi checks in from Saratoga to discuss this weekend's Jim Dandy Stakes and Vanderbilt Handicap. Jockeys' Guild president and CEO Terry Meyocks provides updates on the safety concerns raised in the past week at Del Mar, Saratoga and at Finger Lakes, where riders refused to continue racing Wednesday after a gate accident. Ed DeRosa handicaps the big Saratoga races as well as the San Diego Handicap and Bing Crosby Stakes at Del Mar. Listener and reader feedback focuses on the permanent closing this fall of Golden Gate Fields. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Opening week at Del Mar, the closing of Golden Gate Fields and the $1 million Haskell Stakes are the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Owner, handicapper and radio host Jon Lindo discusses the developments in California, including featured stakes at Del Mar. From Monmouth Park, Mage's assistant trainer and co-owner Gustavo Delgado Jr. talks about the Kentucky Derby winner's bid to win the Haskell. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has handicapping advice for Del Mar and Saratoga as well as the Haskell. Listener feedback is also part of the program. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

It is opening week at Saratoga, and that is the focus of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Fox Sports and New York Racing Association TV analyst Acacia Clément previews the summer meet, including this weekend's Grade 1 Diana Stakes. National Horseplayers Championship Hall of Famer David Gutfreund discusses the recent collusion controversy that led to three players being disqualified and questions about how long this has been going on at the annual tournament. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty handicaps weekend races at Saratoga. There is also listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com. Note: There is a video version of last week's story about technology that has the potential to save the lives of racehorses. The interviews and demonstration of StrideSafe took place at Churchill Downs. See trainer Dale Romans and veterinarians David Lambert and Denise Mc Sweeney on Horse Racing Nation's YouTube page. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5g14sFweYw

Equine safety, a controversial suspension and closing weekend at Belmont Park are the topics of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Attorney Clark Brewster talks about trainer Bob Baffert's ban from Churchill Downs Inc. tracks being extended by another 1 1/2 years. He also discusses the setting aside of the medication suspension of trainer Ray Handal. Trainer Dale Romans and veterinarians David Lambert and Denise Mc Sweeney offer an audio tour of the new StrideSafe technology that was deployed in Kentucky to identify potential injuries in racehorses before they became serious. The video of this portion of the podcast is at YouTube: https://www.horseracingnation.com/news/Flatter_Pod_video_New_technology_can_signal_horse_injuries_123 Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch offers tips on four weekend races at Belmont Park, including the Belmont Derby (G1), the Belmont Oaks (G1) and the Suburban Stakes (G2). Ron also offers some thoughts spanning the globe from his vista last weekend covering the Stephen Foster (G1) at Ellis Park. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

This weekend's $1 million Stephen Foster Stakes, the first Grade 1 in the history of Ellis Park, is the centerpiece of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Recently retired Dallas sports-talk icon Norm Hitzges talks about his radio career and his years of experience as a horseplayer. Owner Mike Mackin discusses his horses Smile Happy and Rattle N Roll, who are racing in the Stephen Foster. Handicapper Ed DeRosa has betting advice for the Stephen Foster and other weekend races. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

What is behind the making of some of the best horse-racing photos around? Alex Evers from Eclipse Sportswire answers that question and talks about his travels as a photojournalist. As summer approaches, Louis Rabaut of the Horse Racing Happy Hour takes a final look back at the spring of 2023 and a troubled Triple Crown season. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

From New York, a preview of Royal Ascot and a review of the Triple Crown are heard this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. For the 14th time in the last 15 years, trainer Wesley Ward sends horses to England for the most prestigious five days of racing in the world. He discusses each of the runners who will try to add to his 12 previous victories at Royal Ascot. He even has a hilarious story about a conversation he had with the late Queen Elizabeth II. Los Angeles Times writer John Cherwa joins Ron for a recap of the 2023 Triple Crown season as they try to put perspective on all the ups and downs of the racing spring. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Amid the smoky conditions ahead of Belmont Stakes 2023, the Ron Flatter Racing Pod originates from New York to preview the last race of this year's Triple Crown. Trainers Brad Cox and Jena Antonucci discuss their Belmont horses. TV analyst Maggie Wolfendale-Morley of the New York Racing Association and Fox Sports offers her thoughts about Belmont week and her tips on Saturday's $1.5 million race. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has handicapping advice for three undercard stakes plus some thoughts about the Belmont itself. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The sixth annual hard-core handicappers roundtable to preview Belmont Stakes 2023 has been convened for this pop-up episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hear Horse Racing Nation's Mark Midland and Ed DeRosa and the return of DraftKings Sportsbook's Johnny Avello. They preview all nine horses and provide their handicapping advice for the 155th running of the Belmont. They also have some tips for Saturday's undercard at Belmont Park. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

It is not too early to preview Belmont Stakes 2023, and that is just what happens this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. New York Racing Association TV analyst Andy Serling from "America's Day at the Races" on Fox provides early insight. Churchill Downs has responded to 12 recent horse deaths by meeting with horsemen to outline new restrictions for races. Trainer Dale Romans was there and offers his thoughts. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch joins in the Belmont preview and also has tips on four races this weekend in New York and Kentucky. There is also reader and listener feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The Triple Crown and jockeys' health are the subjects of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Gene Kershner of The Buffalo News offers his early assessment of Belmont Stakes 2023, the current series of classics and how he may be the turf writer with the longest active streak of Triple Crown races covered. The Jockeys' Guild president and CEO Terry Meyocks talks about this week's symposium that was focused on the mental-wellness of riders and offers some startling statistics about the challenges facing racing's most overlooked athletes. Horse Racing Nation's Ed DeRosa has some handicapping tips for some of this weekend's races plus his own early view of the Belmont Stakes. There also is a backlog of listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

From Pimlico in Baltimore, connections and predictions for Preakness 2023 fill the Friday episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Assistant trainer and co-owner Gustavo Delgado Jr. discusses Kentucky Derby winner Mage's bid to stay alive with his Triple Crown campaign. First Mission's trainer Brad Cox and Coffeewithchris's owner and trainer John Salzman Jr. discuss their horses. Two-time Eclipse Award-winning writer John Scheinman of Baltimore offers his preview of the Preakness. There are also tips for Friday and Saturday at Pimlico from Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch and Super Screener creator Mike Shutty. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The sixth annual hard-core handicappers roundtable to preview Preakness 2023 has been convened for this pop-up episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hear Horse Racing Nation's Mark Midland and Ed DeRosa and the return of DraftKings Sportsbook's Johnny Avello. They preview all eight horses and provide their handicapping advice for the 148th running of the Preakness. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

A recap of Kentucky Derby 2023 and an early preview of Preakness 2023 are the topics of conversation on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Ramiro Restrepo, co-owner of Derby winner Mage, talks about how he spotted the colt at a sale last year and his path in the racing industry. Former Daily Racing Form turf writer Marty McGee talks about career change from journalist to jockey agent. Los Angeles Times writer John Cherwa discusses the recent spate of horse deaths at Churchill Downs. Horse Racing Nation's Mark Midland handicaps weekend races, including the Peter Pan (G3) at Belmont Park. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

From trainers Todd Pletcher, Steve Asmussen and Larry Rivelli to jockey Jareth Loveberry. From celebrities Steve Kornacki and Joy Taylor to handicappers Mike Shutty, Mark Midland, Ed DeRosa and Johnny Avello. From Louisville, it is a jam-packed Kentucky Derby edition of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The sixth annual hard-core handicappers roundtable to preview Kentucky Derby 2023 has been convened for this pop-up episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hear Horse Racing Nation's Mark Midland and Ed DeRosa and the return of DraftKings Sportsbook's Johnny Avello. They preview all 20 horses in the main draw and the three also-eligibles in addition to providing their handicapping advice for the 149th running of America's greatest race. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Get the jump on Kentucky Derby 2023 with this week's early preview on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Trainer Tim Yakteen discusses Practical Move and Reincarnate and his plans for breezing and shipping them this week. Two-time Eclipse Award-winning writer John Scheinman checks in from Baltimore to talk about the ongoing trouble with the racing surface at Laurel Park. Back in Kentucky, Churchill Downs TV analysts Kaitlin Free and Scott Shapiro talk about morning workouts this week and offer their early thoughts about next week's Derby. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch provides his first impressions of how to bet next week's big races. There also is listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The 50th anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown is celebrated in this pop-up episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hall of Famer Ron Turcotte, who rode Big Red to victory in the 1973 Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont stakes, speaks in a new interview about his experiences that spring as well as his relationship with the late trainer Lucien Laurin. Kate Tweedy, the daughter of Secretariat's owner Penny Chenery, recalls her time as a college student who was there for all the important moments that year, big and small. Tweedy's co-author Leeanne Ladin, like Secretariat a native of Virginia, provides perspective as a lifelong rider who became a writer. There also are clips from the 2010 news conference promoting the motion picture "Secretariat" featuring Chenery and actress Diane Lane. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The early previews of Kentucky Derby 2023 continue on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Workout analyst Bruno De Julio discusses what not to ask when handicapping the Derby and some of what to watch ahead of the race. Wild On Ice's trainer Joel Marr talks about his long shot for the May 6 classic. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty handicaps weekend races at Keeneland and Oaklawn. Reader and listener feedback samples opinions about this year's changes to qualifying for Kentucky Derby 2023. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Three weeks before Kentucky Derby 2023, the Ron Flatter Racing Pod examines the prep trail that made Forte the favorite for the May 6 classic. Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. discusses his Florida Derby (G1) victory riding the Eclipse Award winner. Longtime turf writer and publicist Jennie Rees discusses the Final Fractions Theory that she pioneered and how it may impact handicapping for this year's classic. She also talks about changes in the points system this year and how it affected the end of the road to the Derby. Handicapper Ed DeRosa also talks about the qualifying system in addition to offering tips on the Jenny Wiley (G1) and Lexington (G3) at Keeneland and the Apple Blossom Handicap (G1) at Oaklawn. Listener and reader feedback is also on this episode. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com. More on the Final Fractions Theory: https://www.horseracingnation.com/news/Ky_Derby_formula_Fractions_figures_cut_list_of_contenders_to_5_or_6_123

The Blue Grass, the Santa Anita Derby and the Wood Memorial are the last of the major preps for Kentucky Derby 2023, and they are main topics this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Trainer Kenny McPeek has three horses trying to pull off the upset in the Blue Grass Stakes. He will talk about them and this year's Derby trail. Recently inducted in the National Horseplayers Championship Hall of Fame, Keeneland executive Jim Goodman talks about the weekend preps and the advent of sports gambling in Kentucky. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch focuses on races at Aqueduct and Keeneland in his tips for weekend betting. There also is listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The Florida Derby and Arkansas Derby, two Grade 1 preps for Kentucky Derby 2023, are this weekend, and they are the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Fox Sports racing analyst Paul Lo Duca checks in from Oaklawn to talk about both preps as well as opening week and the new rules in his old sport, baseball. National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association CEO Eric Hamelback discusses the latest court fight against the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has weekend handicapping as he tries to build on his 8-for-9 streak last week. He looks at the Arkansas Derby as well as two turf races on the Florida Derby undercard. Feedback zeroes in on last week's column on 10 ways to turn horse racing into must-see TV. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The first of the major U.S. preps for Kentucky Derby 2023 is the topic at hand on this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Fair Grounds track announcer John G. Dooley previews the Saturday running of the Louisiana Derby (G2), from which at least the top two finishers are likely to be in the starting gate May 6 at Churchill Downs. DraftKings Sportsbook director Johnny Avello discusses wagering on Kentucky Derby futures and using apps for sports betting and trends in betting on races in 2023. Horse Racing Nation's Mark Midland handicaps Saturday's Louisiana Derby and the Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3) at Turfway Park. There also is listener and reader feedback to stories at HRN, including a recent piece on how to bet the Tapeta surface at Turfway. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

On this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod, whiskey entrepreneur Amir Peay is joined in Lexington, Ky., by Leon Nichols of the Project to Preserve African American Turf History and Allen Carter from Silver Springs Farm to talk about the legacy of long-ago horse owner and distiller James E. Pepper and his role in diversifying sports like racing and boxing more than a century ago. From Las Vegas, National Thoroughbred Racing Association CEO Tom Rooney discusses the rise in popularity of handicapping contests like the National Horseplayers Championship as well as the rollout of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act. Horse Racing Nation's Ed DeRosa handicaps weekend races, including graded stakes at Oaklawn and the start of a Pick 6 with a mandatory payout at Charles Town. There also is listener feedback from comments on Twitter about recent HRN stories. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

From Las Vegas, the National Horseplayers Championship is center stage on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Former NHC winners David Harrison and Paul Matties join economics professor and horseplayer Marshall Gramm to discuss betting matters and a study that Gramm did that quantifies the impact of computer players at the racetrack. Trainer Robertino Diodoro talks about Lovely Ride's bid to pull off the upset this weekend in the Azeri Stakes (G2) at Oaklawn. Paddock Prince David Levitch handicaps weekend races at Tampa Bay Downs and Gulfstream Park. There also is reader and listener feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Kentucky Derby 2023 preps at four tracks this weekend are the focus of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher talks about the return of Eclipse Award winner Forte in the Fountain of Youth Stakes (G2) at Gulfstream Park. Longtime Tennessee turf talker Danny Brewer offers his unique perspective on the move of Bob Baffert's Derby prospects to other trainers as well as his thoughts about this weekend's points races. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has weekend handicapping advice on the Davona Dale, the Mac Diarmida and the Fountain of Youth. There is listener and reader feedback, too. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Another virtual win-and-you're-in qualifier for the Kentucky Derby is front and center on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. FanDuel TV's Christina Blacker previews the Rebel Stakes (G2) at Oaklawn. Spendthrift Farm general manager Ned Toffey discusses Derby prospects and the recent foal produced by Into Mischief out of Monomoy Girl. Mark Midland of Horse Racing Nation handicaps the Rebel and the Honeybee (G3), an Oaklawn qualifier for the Kentucky Oaks (G1). There also is listener and reader feedback about Bob Baffert's transfer of Derby prospects and Steve Asmussen's 10,000th win. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The Risen Star Stakes is the first virtual win-and-you're-in qualifier for Kentucky Derby 2023. On this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod, trainer Tom Amoss talks about Curly Jack, who is his horse in the race. He also discusses Hoosier Philly, the Rachel Alexandra favorite who might yet have a go at the boys in the Derby. TV analyst Scott Shapiro also previews the Risen Star card. Horse Racing Nation's Ed DeRosa handicaps the Fair Grounds feature and other weekend races. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

On this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod, breeder-owner Bruce Lunsford discusses the immediate past and future for Pegasus World Cup winner Art Collector as well as his Kentucky Derby 2023 prospect Classic Legacy who races in this weekend's Sam F. Davis Stakes (G3), a points prep at Tampa Bay Downs. Maggie Wolfendale-Morley of Fox Sports and the New York Racing Association is at Aqueduct to preview this weekend's Withers Stakes (G3), another Derby points prep. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch handicaps weekend races at Aqueduct, Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs. There also is listener and reader feedback on the Bob Baffert vs. Churchill Downs Inc. federal case that was argued in a Kentucky courtroom last week. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

On this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod, hear legendary jockey Frankie Dettori look ahead to the rest of his last year of riding. Gulfstream Park TV analyst Ron Nicoletti handicaps the Holy Bull Stakes, a points prep for the Kentucky Derby. There is another one of those with the Robert B. Lewis at Santa Anita, and handicapper Ed DeRosa of Horse Racing Nation preview both of them. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The Pegasus World Cup and the Eclipse Awards are the focus of this week's Florida road trip for the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Trainers Brad Cox of Cyberknife and Michael Stidham of Proxy discuss their thoughts about this weekend's $3 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational at Gulfstream Park. That is where former jockey Samantha Perry talks about her path to becoming a TV analyst. She and Super Screener creator Mike Shutty offer their handicapping thoughts about the Pegasus card. There also is a wrap-up of who won the Eclipse Awards, a cameo from Flightline's trainer John Sadler and a comment about something that racing got terribly wrong last week in Florida. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

A look ahead to this weekend's Kentucky Derby 2023 prep and this year's plans for the 2022 Derby winner are the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Eclipse Award-winning horseplayer Michael Beychok checks in from Louisiana to discuss the Grade 3 Lecomte Stakes, a better-than-advertised allowance race and recent trends at Fair Grounds. He also talks about Derby futures betting and even his day job as a political consultant in Baton Rouge. Trainer Eric Reed outlines 2023 plans for 80-1 Derby winner Rich Strike, who returned from the farm to resume training this month. Charting Horse Value creator Jeff Bessa has handicapping advice that zeroes in on the late, all-stakes Pick 4 on Saturday at Fair Grounds with emphasis on the Lecomte, the Silverbulletday and the Louisiana. There also is listener feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Where to find good food and drink at or around racetracks. That is the topic for a special panel this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. At the Races host Steve Byk, award-winning turf writer Alicia Hughes, trainer Neil Pessin and sports writer Matt Stahl compare notes on the best restaurants for horseplayers and fans nationwide, including destination restaurants during visits to the Triple Crown. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch has tips for weekend races at Aqueduct and Gulfstream Park. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com. Restaurants in this episode shown in order of mention: New Orleans: Liuzza's, Brigtsen's, Mares Pesca, Central Grocery, Fausto's, Mosca (Westwego), Angelo Brocato, Venezia. Saratoga Springs, N.Y.: Pennell's, Osteria Danny, De Fazio's (Troy). Louisville, Ky.: Four Pegs, Saints Pizza. Lexington, Ky.: girlsgirlsgirls burritos, Torttilleria & Taqueria Ramirez, Nathan's Taqueria, Epping's on Eastside, Carson's, OBC Kitchen, Malone's, Jeff Ruby's, Merrick Danno, Wallace Station, Ramsey's Diner, Crank & Boom. Louisville, Ky.: Le Moo, Suburban Social Club. Baltimore: Pioneer Pit Beef, G&M (Linthicum Heights), G&M (Linthicum Heights). Elmont, N.Y.: King Umberto, Filomena's (Franklin Square). Louisville, Ky.: Granville Pub, At the Italian Table (closed). Baltimore: Vito Ristorante (Timonium), Nautilus Diner (Timonium). Elmont, N.Y.: Morning Line (Belmont Park backstretch). Louisville, Ky.: Jack Fry's, The Fish House. Baltimore: A-1 Crab Haven (Essex, closed). New York: La Gioconda (Ron said E. 44 St.; it is E. 53 St.), Smith & Wollensky. Baltimore: Johnny's. Tampa, Fla.: Columbia Restaurant. Louisville, Ky.: Ramen House, Bunz Burgerz, Payne Street Bake House. Track kitchens and concessions: Keeneland, Fair Grounds, Oaklawn. New Orleans: Ye Olde College Inn, Mandina's. El Reno, Okla.: Robert's, Johnnie's, Sid's (the third one Steve may have meant). Oklahoma City: Nick's Cafe. Tucson, Ariz.: Zinburger. New Orleans: Lakeview Harbor. Nashville: Brown's Diner. Louisville, Ky.: Six Forks, Toasty's Tavern, Bandido Taqueria Mexicana, Cottage Inn. Clearwater, Fla.: Christina's Coal Oven Pizza. Los Angeles: Monty's (Woodland Hills), Musso & Frank Grill (Hollywood), Dal Rae Steakhouse (Pico Rivera), Fosselman's Ice Cream Co. (Alhambra), Philippe The Original. Louisville, Ky.: Black Jockeys Lounge. Lexington, Ky.: Minglewood, Rock House Brewing, Pivot Brewing Company, Ethereal Brewing. Louisville, Ky.: Marma Dukes. Bowling Green, Ky.: Donna's. Lexington, Ky.: The Grove. Oceanport, N.J.: Marandola's (Bradley Beach), Del Ponte's Bakery (Bradley Beach). Bensalem, Pa.: Non Solo Pasta (Morrisville), The Franklin Fountain (Philadelphia).

Kentucky Derby preps this weekend for 2023 and the Eclipse Awards for 2022 are discussed on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Trainer Linda Rice talks about her two starters in the Jerome Stakes as well as other recent runners who have made her the top trainer this winter at Aqueduct. Author and handicapper Richard Eng previews the Sham Stakes at Santa Anita. Horse Racing Nation's Ed DeRosa compares notes about his Eclipse votes after handicapping weekend races at Aqueduct, Oaklawn and Turfway Park. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

A half-century of riding racehorses, the Eclipse Awards debate and this weekend's races at Gulfstream Park are the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Perry Ouzts talks about his longevity as a jockey and whether he should be in the Hall of Fame. Larry Collmus of FanDuel TV and Super Screener creator Mike Shutty look ahead to graded stakes in South Florida. Listener and reader feedback zeroes in on the debate over who should be the champion 3-year-old male of 2022. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

On a special Christmas episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod, hear the story of how Ron won $80,500 two decades ago on "The Weakest Link." Hear from original host Anne Robinson plus two people who had key roles in this saga, ESPN Radio's Peter Ciccone and former contestant producer Laura Chambers. There even are cameo mentions of horse racing. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com. More details of how this game-show appearance happened are in this blog written in 2006 and updated last year: http://ronflatter.blogspot.com/2021/10/twenty-years-ago-today-i-won-on-weakest.html?m=1

A career remembered and a year reviewed. Those are the subjects for retired Daily Racing Form writer Jay Privman on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Also, oddsmaker Paul Zilm discusses the Kentucky Derby futures odds he wrote this week for Circa Sports, and Outrun the Odds handicapper Sara Elbadwi provides tips for weekend races at Aqueduct and at Gulfstream Park and for the Remington Springboard Mile prep for the Kentucky Derby. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com. See the Kentucky Derby 2023 futures referenced in this episode: https://www.horseracingnation.com/news/Kentucky_Derby_odds_2nd_casino_adds_77_horses_total_of_196_123

Anyone who ever wanted to own a racehorse has a chance to learn how this week with the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Horse Racing Radio Network analyst Dan Mason applies his experience as a Midlantic owner to provide lessons for beginners on how to become stakeholders in the Thoroughbred game. Charting Horse Value creator Jeff Bessa handicaps weekend races at Oaklawn plus the Grade 1 Starlet Stakes, a Kentucky Oaks points prep at Los Alamitos. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

The Cigar Mile Handicap this weekend at Aqueduct takes center stage on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Maggie Wolfendale Morley of Fox Sports analyzes the race and discusses the current outbreak of the equine herpesvirus in Kentucky. Owner Jeffrey Drown talks about Zandon's bid to win the Cigar Mile and his late push for an Eclipse Award. David Levitch, the Paddock Prince, handicaps weekend races at Aqueduct and Del Mar. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Thanksgiving weekend racing at Churchill Downs is the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Owner Rick Dawson talks about Kentucky Derby winner Rich Strike returning in the Clark Stakes as well as the year past and plans for 2023. Scott Shapiro of Churchill Downs TV discusses the Clark and the Kentucky Jockey Club. Ed DeRosa takes his turn handicapping the week's graded stakes in Louisville. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Women in racing are the subject of a new episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Jockeys Emma-Jayne Wilson and Kylee Jordan discuss their successes and the opportunities for women to get riding assignments. Jessica Paquette talks about her new role as track announcer at Parx Racing. Sara Elbadwi weights in on these matters and handicaps weekend races at Aqueduct, Churchill Downs and Del Mar. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

From Lexington, Ky., a final debriefing from the 2022 Breeders' Cup is at the core of this episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Lane's End owner Bill Farish and trainer John Sadler discuss Flightline's career-ending victory in the $6 million Classic. So do John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Adrian Beaumont of the International Racing Bureau. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google, Spotify and Stitcher as well as HorseRacingNation.com.