The Ron Flatter Racing Pod
Featuring handicapping tips and insight from insiders, the Ron Flatter Racing Pod is posted every Friday morning via HorseRacingNation.com. Check out the interviews with owners, trainers, jockeys, racing journalists, handicappers and celebrities. The pod is hosted by HRN managing editor Ron Flatter, who has been covering horse racing around the world for more than 35 years.
info_outline
S9E6: A racing podcast with podcasters
11/21/2025
S9E6: A racing podcast with podcasters
What goes into making a successful podcast for horseplayers and fans? The answers are the subject of a roundtable discussion this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Hosts Pete Fornatale of the In the Money Players Podcast, Ryan Anderson and Jackson Muniz from the Gallop Out Podcast and Tatiana Ryann from the Business-y Podcast compare and contrast notes and strategies about their programs. Some of the topics include how they present racing content in unique ways, their attempts to find their own voices in a space crowded with listening choices, whether video will push audio aside and, most challenging, how to make podcasts profitable. The hosts also offer glimpses into their backgrounds and how they see their futures in podcasting playing out in the short and long term. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson from Fairmount Park offer their own experiences in finding their paths to success in newspapers and track announcing at a time when businesses are downsizing. As a bonus, the RFRP auditions a new musical theme that was generated by AI. The reviews are mixed. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38872715
info_outline
S9E5: Gone fishin’ with the Reeds
11/14/2025
S9E5: Gone fishin’ with the Reeds
Taking a new turn this week, the Ron Flatter Racing Pod is off on a fishing expedition at a pond in Scott County, Kentucky. Eric Reed, who trained Rich Strike to an 80-1 upset victory in Kentucky Derby 2022, is joined by his father Herbie Reed, who living with cancer. While fishing for crappie and bass and shellcrackers from the shore of Lake Tyson, the Reeds reminisce about their lives. Herbie Reed recalls how he and his wife became teenage parents and why he tried to steer Eric away from the horse business that had been his life the generation before. The Reeds also take a trip back to May 7, 2022, when Rich Strike won the Derby. They remember where they were throughout the experience of a lifetime. Eric Reed’s first 2022 interview for the RFRP also is replayed, and co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park discuss “American Sportsman” and “Wild Kingdom,” two shows that inspired this episode. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38872600
info_outline
S9E4: Breeders’ Cup epilogue, if vets allow it
11/07/2025
S9E4: Breeders’ Cup epilogue, if vets allow it
Forever Young’s victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic will be celebrated by racing fans in Japan for generations to come. It will be reviewed in America one more time on this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Handicapper and workout analyst Bruno De Julio spent nearly two weeks at Del Mar covering the championships from the first morning workout to the final race last weekend. He offers his assessment of the strategy and quality of the standout performances and the biggest disappointments. There also is a lively debate about the 13 scratches made by veterinarians to remove horses like Sovereignty and White Abarrio from their races. Are the doctors right to err on the side of safety, or have they gone too far with their power? Co-host Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park offers his perspective, and John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times interrupts a book project to make a cameo appearance. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38885540
info_outline
S9E3: Creeders’ Bup, er, Breeders’ Cup with Biancone, Toffey, Levitch
10/31/2025
S9E3: Creeders’ Bup, er, Breeders’ Cup with Biancone, Toffey, Levitch
Breeders’ Cup 2025 brings together 14 divisions of racing into as many races this week at Del Mar. It also becomes common ground for the media, horsemen and handicappers, each of whom is represented on this week’s Friday episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. FanDuel TV’s Andie Biancone provides her perspective not only as an analyst but also a morning exercise rider for the likes of her father, trainer Patrick Biancone. She has snapshot thoughts about both days of championship races. General manager Ned Toffey discusses Spendthrift Farm’s string of Breeders’ Cup horses, including Kopion’s first try against males in the Sprint, undefeated 2-year-old Tommy Jo in the Juvenile Fillies and the 3-for-3 favorite Ted Noffey in the Juvenile. Toffey even gets a lesson in how spoonerism applies to the colt who is sort of named for him. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch analyzes the Distaff and Classic and how the scratch of Sovereignty affects the way he will bet. John Cherwa from the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park co-host. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com. Check out the Breeders’ Cup hard-core handicappers episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod in video or audio form at the links below.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38850540
info_outline
S9E2: Breeders’ Cup hard-core handicappers pop-up
10/28/2025
S9E2: Breeders’ Cup hard-core handicappers pop-up
Fierceness from New York and Forever Young from Japan stand out among older horses. So does Sierra Leone, who looks for a rare repeat victory. Horse-of-the-year frontrunner Sovereignty was reported to have a fever. They are the storylines going into the $7 million Classic. The race may provide the climax, but it is only part of the Breeders’ Cup. For the ninth year in a row, the two richest days of U.S. horse racing are featured on a hard-core handicappers episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. All 14 championship races at Del Mar are analyzed in depth by a panel of three expert handicappers. Mark Midland and Ed DeRosa provide their expertise from Horse Racing Nation’s home in Louisville, Ky. FanDuel TV analyst Caton Bredar offers her tips from Del Mar. The panel takes turns offering individual views on the five races Friday and nine Saturday with discussion and debate throughout. They also will have tips on each of the championship stakes as well as a summation of their best bets at the end of the episode. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Google and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38815995
info_outline
S9E1: Damn computers
10/24/2025
S9E1: Damn computers
The prevailing thought that computer bettors have become the bane of the average American horseplayer has been burnished with news that the Breeders’ Cup will not carry on Del Mar’s two-minutes-to-post cut-off of batch wagers. It was exacerbated further during the Keeneland fall meet with the big odds changes after races already had started. With new controversies boiling over, the Ron Flatter Racing Pod focuses on the cry of CAW, computer-assisted wagering, in this week’s episode. Horse owner, player and economics professor Marshall Gramm from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn., joins the podcast for an in-depth discussion of how the two-minute cut-off has impacted California and New York racetracks and how its absence at Keeneland has been noticed. He also reacts to the Breeders’ Cup saying that its pools are so liquid that there has not been an obvious impact from team wagerers. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty offers his early handicapping angles on next week’s Breeders’ Cup 2025 races at Del Mar as well as tips for Saturday’s running of the Grade 3 Fayette Stakes at Keeneland. Listener and reader feedback with co-hosts John Cherwa and Keith Nelson focuses on the idea of pushing the Breeders’ Cup to December and returning it to a one-day event, which it was until 2007. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38759610
info_outline
S8E57: World view of Breeders’ Cup
10/17/2025
S8E57: World view of Breeders’ Cup
Breeders’ Cup 2025 bills itself as the world championships, and international horses will be front and center. They are the focus of this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Kate Hunter, who is the Japan liaison for big races in the U.S., offers her expertise on horses like Forever Young, who tries to improve on last year’s third-place performance in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Maddy Playle of Racing Post offers a preview of this weekend’s British Champions day at Ascot, England, as well as a snapshot of the Europe shippers who will be at Del Mar in two weeks. Back home, Ed DeRosa has weekend handicapping for races in North America including the graded-stakes card at Keeneland. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park are along for listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38609295
info_outline
S8E56: Mattress Mack, Motion, Midland, mmm, good
10/10/2025
S8E56: Mattress Mack, Motion, Midland, mmm, good
With a lull before the Breeders’ Cup, some comings and goings for races this week and for the long term are the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Mattress Mack said he is done with horse racing. Texas businessman, former horse owner and renowned sports gambler Jim McIngvale says in his own words why he has left the game after 30 years. Laurelin takes her 5-for-5 record to the Grade 1 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup at Keeneland. Her trainer Graham Motion talks about the filly, the race, his stable and his possible runners in the Breeders’ Cup. Horse Racing Nation handicapper Mark Midland offers weekend handicapping. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park help go through listener and reader feedback. The podcast also pays tribute to the late Los Angeles TV host, handicapper and racehorse owner Jeff Siegel with the playback of one of his interviews. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38531240
info_outline
S8E55: Breeders’ Cup puzzle comes together
10/03/2025
S8E55: Breeders’ Cup puzzle comes together
Eight Grade 1 races are spread across America this week. Fifteen Breeders’ Cup qualifiers make this an overflow weekend that includes super Saturday at Aqueduct, Keeneland and Santa Anita. All this makes for a stacked episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. The Keeneland fall season opens this week with five Grade 1s. In her new role with the racetrack, former FanDuel TV host Gabby Gaudet offers a preview. Fourteen graded stakes feature 2-year-olds including It’s Our Time, the buzz horse who won by 17 3/4 lengths in his August debut at Saratoga. Trainer Tom Amoss discusses the Not This Time colt when he previews the Champagne Stakes (G1) at the Belmont at Aqueduct meet. Horse Racing Nation handicapper Ed DeRosa offers weekend handicapping for races across the country. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park help go through listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38444245
info_outline
S8E54: Rudulph and the Goodwood are back
09/26/2025
S8E54: Rudulph and the Goodwood are back
The Grade 1 Goodwood Stakes at Santa Anita and the return of a familiar media personality are the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Former FanDuel TV host Ken Rudulph talks about what he is doing now and his thoughts about the sport he used to cover daily. He also weighs in with his forecast for the Goodwood. Trainer Brad Cox discusses First Mission’s bid to get his first Grade 1 win when he races in the feature at Santa Anita. He also talks about multimillionaire Hit Show’s bid to win the Lukas Classic (G2) for the second year in a row as well as some of his other potential Breeders’ Cup horses. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch zeroes in on weekend races at the Belmont at Aqueduct and Churchill Downs September meets. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park help go through listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38358295
info_outline
S8E53: $1 million x 2 Grade 1s in Pennsylvania
09/19/2025
S8E53: $1 million x 2 Grade 1s in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Derby and Cotillion, a pair of Grade 1, $1 million stakes for 3-year-olds, will be run this weekend at Parx. They also are the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Track announcer Jessica Paquette checks in from Parx to discuss the two races and their context in the 2025 championship picture. She also provides perspective on the arc of the 3-year-old season for both males and females. Breeder and co-owner Robert Clay talks about Pennsylvania Derby favorite Baeza, the productivity and sale of his dam Puca and how he changed the direction of his Grandview Equine operation to focus on colts who have turned into classic winners. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty offers tips on the Gallant Bob (G2), the Cotillion and the Pennsylvania Derby at Parx. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park help field feedback from listeners and readers about Churchill Downs continuing to penalize Kentucky Derby preps that lure small fields. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38272370
info_outline
S8E52: 1st steps on Kentucky Derby 2026 trail
09/12/2025
S8E52: 1st steps on Kentucky Derby 2026 trail
The first race carrying points toward qualifying for Kentucky Derby 2026 arrives this weekend, and it is the focus of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. TV analyst Kaitlin Free offers a preview of Saturday’s Grade 3 Iroquois Stakes at Churchill Downs and the context it has not only for next year’s Triple Crown series but the final four months of the 2025 racing season. Eddie Kenneally trains Comport, the morning-line favorite for the Iroquois. He is at the Keeneland September yearling sale, which is where he identified the colt around this time last year. Handicapper Ed DeRosa has tips for the Iroquois as well as Saturday’s Pocahontas (G3), the first points race for the Kentucky Oaks (G1), and the Woodbine Mile (G1). Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park join in the reading of feedback from listeners and readers. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38183310
info_outline
S8E51: Like a racetrack on a golf course
09/05/2025
S8E51: Like a racetrack on a golf course
The climactic weekend on the turf at Kentucky Downs is the focus this week of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Trainer Brendan Walsh has four horses in the multimillion-dollar weekend stakes. He discusses Spanish Eyes, New Century, Pondering and Z Z’s and their strategies this weekend. Walsh also talks about Special Wan, who won for him at Kentucky Downs last Saturday in the Grade 3 Ladies Turf, and a couple of his standout 3-year-olds. Dr. Ronald Tang, the California oncologist who won last year’s King of the Turf handicapping contest at Kentucky Downs, shares his basics for betting the boutique, all-turf meet on the Tennessee border. He is asked whether he will go all in again on Grand Sonata, the defender in the Grade 2, $2.5 million Kentucky Turf Cup who was key to his contest triumph last summer. Horse Racing Nation’s Mark Midland offers weekend handicapping for Kentucky Downs and Colonial Downs. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park join in the response to listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38091620
info_outline
S8E50: Showdowns at Del Mar and Saratoga
08/29/2025
S8E50: Showdowns at Del Mar and Saratoga
Local standouts Journalism and Nysos face eastern shipper Fierceness in the Pacific Classic at Del Mar, and Mindframe gets a high-profile rematch with Sierra Leone in the Jockey Club Gold Cup at Saratoga. These 1 1/4-mile, Grade 1, $1 million races are spotlighted this week on the Ron Flater Racing Pod. Christina Blacker of FanDuel TV provides insight on the east vs. west matchup in California. She discusses Preakness and Haskell (G1) winner Journalism’s first time facing older horses like Nysos and Fierceness in their audition for the Breeders’ Cup Classic over the same course and distance in a little more than two months. Co-owner Brook T. Smith talks about whether Sierra Leone can reverse the trend against Mindframe when they have their third meeting, this time at Saratoga. He also outlines plans for the 4-year-old colt between now and the Breeders’ Cup as well as after the $7 million race in which Sierra Leone is the defending winner. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty checks in from his home base near Del Mar to provide handicapping advice for the big weekend races. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park join in a tribute to Secretariat’s late jockey Ron Turcotte. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/38005570
info_outline
S8E49: Bring on fall and the Travers
08/22/2025
S8E49: Bring on fall and the Travers
The 156th running of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers Stakes at Saratoga is not only the mid-summer derby. It also is the centerpiece this week for the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Racing analyst and TV host Andy Serling of New York Racing Association TV and Fox Sports is along to discuss the race, the Grade 1s on Saturday’s card and the Saratoga summer. He also will talk about the 3-year-old male division and how the Travers could go a long way toward determining the Eclipse Award. Jockey Júnior Alvarado rides Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Sovereignty in the Travers talks about the five-horse field this weekend and his strategy for the race. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch examines the Travers and has tips for other races on the Saratoga card. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park have their thoughts about the Travers as well as reaction to listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37906455
info_outline
S8E48: Canada to Italy to Alabama in N.Y.
08/15/2025
S8E48: Canada to Italy to Alabama in N.Y.
Canada and Italy line up with the U.S. on this week’s menu for the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Ashley Mailloux from FanDuel TV examines the 166th running of the King’s Plate. She offers analysis about the field that includes No Time, the morning-line favorite trying to become the 40th filly to win this first race of the Canadian Triple Crown. The Palio di Siena, the ancient bareback race run twice every summer in Tuscany, happens again this weekend. Sportscaster Kenny Mayne and producer Matt Doyle recall their adventure covering the sometimes controversial event that is centuries old. La Cara, Good Cheer and Nitrogen are the big names in the Grade 1 Alabama at Saratoga. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty handicaps that and other races this weekend. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park join in paying tribute to a famous guest of an old Arlington Million (G1). The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37821290
info_outline
S8E47: The Million and a _____load of dimes
08/08/2025
S8E47: The Million and a _____load of dimes
The Grade 1 Arlington Million returns this weekend to Virginia for the third time. It comes with the added attraction of Kentucky Derby 2024 winner Mystik Dan. The 42nd renewal of the well-traveled race catches the spotlight on this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Colonial Downs track announcer Jason Beem checks in from his frequent travels to offer his thoughts on the $1 million race which lured Kentucky Derby 2024 winner Mystik Dan to try the turf for the first time. He also offers his thoughts on the rise of Virginia racing. Hall of Famer Shug McGaughey trains 5-year-old morning-line favorite Integration and 6-year-old third choice Fort Washington. He talks about what it might take for Integration to go one better than last year’s second-place finish at Colonial. He also discusses Fort Washington’s season that includes two Grade 3 wins. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch zeros in on the Arlington Million as well as the Sword Dancer (G1) card this weekend at Saratoga. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park join in checking out listeners’ and readers’ feedback about last week’s interview with Resolute Racing owner John Stewart. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37719660
info_outline
S8E46: Whitney talk and more with JK and Resolute
08/01/2025
S8E46: Whitney talk and more with JK and Resolute
The Grade 1, $1 million Whitney Stakes featuring Fierceness, Sierra Leone and White Abarrio may be the race of the year, so far. It is the primary subject of this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod. “Saratoga Live” analyst Jonathon Kinchen from the New York Racing Association and Fox Sports offers his thoughts on the Whitney field, some of the other races on Saturday’s card and some behind-the-scenes insights into his popular Cart Talk feature. Away from Saratoga, Resolute Racing founder John Stewart discusses his rapid success in the short time he has been an owner, and he talks about plans he has for star broodmare Puca. Handicapper Ed DeRosa zeroes in on the Whitney and other weekend races. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park join in checking out listeners’ and readers’ feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37628055
info_outline
S8E45: Speaking of Spa & Del Mar, it’s Privman the human & horse
07/25/2025
S8E45: Speaking of Spa & Del Mar, it’s Privman the human & horse
The return of Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Sovereignty in the Grade 2 Jim Dandy at Saratoga and the showcase for sprinters in the Bing Crosby (G1) at Del Mar are among the topics for the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Retired turf writer Jay Privman discusses the California summer that may include Preakness winner Journalism facing older rivals next month in the Pacific Classic (G1). He also will talk about his namesake horse who broke his maiden Sunday. Trainer Bob Hess Jr. offers an update on Roll On Big Joe, who tests Grade 1 waters Saturday in the Bing Crosby. He also offers his thoughts about the immediate future of California racing. Mark Midland handicaps weekend races including the Jim Dandy plus more selections at Saratoga, Del Mar and Woodbine, and co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park help go through listener and reader feedback about Del Mar and Florida racing. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37540805
info_outline
S8E44: From Surf to Shore with Collmus and Wellman
07/18/2025
S8E44: From Surf to Shore with Collmus and Wellman
Opening week at Del Mar and the Grade 1, $1 million Haskell Stakes at Monmouth Park are the main topics this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Larry Collmus checks in from Del Mar, where he makes his debut as the permanent announcer for all seasons. He offers his thoughts about the meet that will be highlighted by next month’s Pacific Classic (G1). He also talks about his cross-country drive that led him to where the turf meets the surf. Aron Wellman of Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners speaks from his drive between Newark Liberty International Airport and the Jersey Shore to discuss Journalism’s bid to win the Haskell. He also fields questions about whether he might consider running the Preakness winner against older competition next month in the $1 million Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has handicapping tips for the Haskell card and for opening week at Del Mar. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park are scheduled to help with listener and reader feedback. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from platforms like Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37448225
info_outline
S8E43: Summer at Saratoga plus a new cast member
07/11/2025
S8E43: Summer at Saratoga plus a new cast member
The formal start of the Saratoga summer with some familiar names and the introduction of a new voice highlight this week’s episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Horse Racing Nation writer and HorseCenter host Matt Shifman checks in from upstate New York to offer his thoughts about the upcoming meet, the potential rematch next month of Sovereignty and Journalism in the Grade 1 Travers and some tips for fans taking in the races this summer at the Spa. Trainer Cherie DeVaux discusses She Feels Pretty, her four-time Grade 1 winner who is favored Saturday in the Grade 1 Diana Stakes. She also introduces Dr. Agne, the 2-year-old debutant named for the pioneering equine podiatrist who died in a bicycle accident nearly 10 years ago. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch zeroes in on Saratoga with his tips for the weekend. There is listener and reader feedback, and regular co-host John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times is joined by Fairmount Park announcer Keith Nelson, a new addition to the RFRP cast. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from platforms like Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37365340
info_outline
S8E42: A visit to Fairmount and tips for Saratoga
07/04/2025
S8E42: A visit to Fairmount and tips for Saratoga
With Chicagoland racing on the decline, Fairmount Park near St. Louis has become the one track in Illinois where the sport is on the rise. This week the Collinsville venue plays host for this on-the-road episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Vince Gabbert, a former executive at Keeneland, talks about his decision to run Fairmount Park since it was bought last year by the publicly traded gaming company Accel. He also discusses the recent opening of a casino inside the 100-year-old site, making it the first racetrack in Illinois to take advantage of that revenue stream. Jim Watkins, the president of the Illinois Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, discusses the challenges facing owners and trainers like him who continue to race their horses at both Fairmount and at Hawthorne in suburban Chicago. He also expresses his optimism about the potential expansion of racing at Fairmount beyond its current Tuesday-and-Saturday schedule. With the Saratoga summer getting an early start, handicapper Ed DeRosa offers tips for the Saturday’s card highlighted by the Grade 1 Belmont Derby Invitational. He also has analysis for other races from the holiday-weekend menu across the country. Fairmount track announcer Keith Nelson fills in for John Cherwa as this week’s co-host. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37272900
info_outline
S8E41: Pop-up tribute to the late D. Wayne Lukas
06/30/2025
S8E41: Pop-up tribute to the late D. Wayne Lukas
Hall of Fame trainer and racing icon D. Wayne Lukas is remembered on this special, pop-up episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. The late Hall of Fame trainer died Saturday at age 89. He appeared on the RFRP nine times, and those interviews plus others dating to his first Kentucky Derby victory with Winning Colors in 1988 are replayed on this special episode. An indelible memory came in 2013, when Oxbow won the Preakness, a victory which marked a career renaissance for Lukas. He told the media if they wanted to talk to him the morning after that they had to show up at 4:30 a.m. EDT at the Pimlico stakes barn. Four of the people who took him up on that are on a panel discussion in this episode, including Alicia Hughes, Mike Gathagan, Steve Haskin and Flatter. Co-host John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times brings the show together as do replays of old interviews with Lukas, who appeared on the RFRP nine times, most recently last month. With regular episodes available every Friday morning, the Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/37212750
info_outline
S8E40: Why Scheinman is the mayor of Pimlico, old and new
06/27/2025
S8E40: Why Scheinman is the mayor of Pimlico, old and new
He balks at the idea that he is the mayor of Pimlico, but longtime Baltimore fixture John Scheinman easily could fill that role. He has been a regular in the old press box for decades in his roles as a two-time Eclipse Award-winning turf writer and as a dyed-in-the-wool horseplayer. Scheinman is the lone guest this week on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. He talks about the can’t-miss-him presence he has brought to Pimlico and tells stories about the last days of the old track before its planned demolition this summer and redevelopment in the next two years. Scheinman offers critical commentary about the reconfiguring of Maryland racing with the exit of The Stronach Group and the emergence of the new Maryland Jockey Club. He even has thoughts about the impact the new Pimlico will have on the Park Heights neighborhood in Baltimore. Asked to assume the imagined role of racing czar, Scheinman offered ideas on how he would lure fans back to the Preakness and how confident he is that the new racetrack and grandstand at Pimlico can meet his hopes. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/36815585
info_outline
S8E39: Tales and lessons from jockey super agent Ron Anderson
06/20/2025
S8E39: Tales and lessons from jockey super agent Ron Anderson
Ron Anderson has been the jockey agent to the stars. In more than a half-century in racing, he has collected a lot of stories. He tells some of them on this week’s episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Anderson talks about what it takes to be a good jockey agent, how it is a difficult craft to teach and how old-fashioned, face-to-face communication is vital to succeeding in his role. It is not just successes that have defined his career. Anderson tells his famous story of a star horse that got away from one of his clients. He also talks about how bettors can relate to his ups and downs. With Gary Stevens, Jerry Bailey, Garrett Gómez and Chris Antley among his former clients, Anderson discusses how he juggles diverse personalities, especially with his current stars Frankie Dettori and Joel Rosario. Anderson also applies his vast experience in racing to say what he might change about the game if he had his way. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/36815385
info_outline
S8E38: Future of Pimlico, Preakness and Maryland with Bill Knauf
06/13/2025
S8E38: Future of Pimlico, Preakness and Maryland with Bill Knauf
This is the summer when old Pimlico is scheduled to be torn down with a new racecourse grandstand being built in time for Preakness 2027. How will that concept become a reality? On this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod, new Maryland Jockey Club president and general manager Bill Knauf gets into the details as the episode’s sole guest. Knauf discusses his more than quarter-century at Monmouth Park, where he worked hand in hand with a management team which brought sports betting and fixed-odds wagering to the Jersey Shore racetrack. The move of the Preakness to Laurel Park in 2026 and whether the new Pimlico will be ready in time for the 2027 renewal also comes up. The conversation covers how the new Pimlico may look and when plans may be finalized for the rebuilding of the Baltimore racetrack. Knauf offers thoughts about whether the $400 million budgeted for the project will be enough to cover the cost. Knauf also talks about the future of racing in the mid-Atlantic region, especially the relationship the new Maryland Jockey Club will have with its neighbors in Virginia. Of course any discussion of Pimlico will lead to thoughts about the spacing of the three Triple Crown races and whether it should be changed. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/36815275
info_outline
S8E37: Wolfendale, Shirreffs, Levitch talk Belmont Stakes
06/06/2025
S8E37: Wolfendale, Shirreffs, Levitch talk Belmont Stakes
The Belmont Stakes rematch of this year’s classic winners Sovereignty and Journalism is the focus of this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Maggie Wolfendale-Morley from New York Racing Association TV and Fox Sports is at Saratoga, where she paints the scene for this second year the Belmont migrates to its home away from home. She offers a snapshot of the race with some angles that might not be so obvious to handicappers. Trainer John Shirreffs discusses Baeza, who has all the makings of the wise-guy horse in this year’s Belmont field. He also extolls the virtues of Saratoga, particularly as a haven for horses. Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch has advice on how to bet an all-Grade 1 trio of races, namely the Woody Stephens, the Manhattan and the Belmont Stakes. The hard-core handicappers Johnny Avello, Ed DeRosa and Mark Midland have bonus picks for Saturday’s Saratoga undercard. Co-host John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times joins in the reading of audience feedback to last week’s column pining for a Kentucky Derby victor to win again, just as Mystik Dan did last Saturday in the Blame Stakes (G3) at Churchill Downs. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/36866065
info_outline
S8E36: Hard-core handicappers pop up for Belmont Stakes
06/03/2025
S8E36: Hard-core handicappers pop up for Belmont Stakes
Deep analysis of every horse in Belmont Stakes 2025 is ready to hear now from the hard-core handicappers in their latest pop-up episode of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Horse Racing Nation handicappers Mark Midland and Ed DeRosa are joined by DraftKings Sportsbook director Johnny Avello. They go through the entire field, 1 through 8, including Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty and Preakness winner Journalism. How will they play the two classic winners, and how short is too short to bet them to win or in exotics? How will the wise-guy status of Baeza or the presence of Bob Baffert with Rodríguez skew the odds? Who are the pretenders amid the contenders? Where is the value? How will the horses take to the track at Saratoga? The panel answers all those questions. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/36828795
info_outline
S8E35: Mystik Dan, the Belmont & Monsieur Clément
05/30/2025
S8E35: Mystik Dan, the Belmont & Monsieur Clément
A preliminary look at next week’s running of Belmont Stakes 2025 and a preview of this weekend’s return of Kentucky Derby 2024 winner Mystik Dan to Churchill Downs are the centers of attention on this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod. From the New York Racing Association and Fox Sports, former jockey Richard Migliore offers his perspective on the Triple Crown and how the rematch of Sovereignty and Journalism might unfold next Saturday. He also offers his thoughts about Júnior Alvarado, Umberto Rispoli and their winning rides in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness and all the controversy that went with them. Brian Hernandez Jr., who rode Mystik Dan and Thorpedo Anna to triumphs last year in the Kentucky Derby and Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks, discusses both horses and their upcoming races. He focuses most of his attention on Saturday’s running of the Blame Stakes (G3), where Mystik Dan tries to get his first victory since last year’s Derby. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has some early thoughts about the Belmont Stakes and specific tips for the Arlington (G3), Blame and Regret (G3) on Saturday at Churchill Downs. Co-host John Cherwa from the Los Angeles Times joins in the feedback from listeners and readers reacting to the death of trainer Christophe Clément. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free siption from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/36780050
info_outline
S8E34: How would you rule on Preakness 2025?
05/23/2025
S8E34: How would you rule on Preakness 2025?
The Preakness 2025 hangover has not been cured yet, and why should it? One of the great races of all time is subject to review as the Belmont Stakes looms on the horizon on the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Two-time Eclipse Award-winning turf writer John Scheinman from Baltimore has his thoughts about the race, the Triple Crown schedule and the future of racing in Maryland with old Pimlico scheduled to be demolished this year. Bernie Hettel, the former top steward in Kentucky and Arkansas, weighs in with his opinion about Journalism’s squeeze to victory in the Preakness and who should have been disqualified if anyone in one of the most physical stretch runs in Triple Crown history. He also has thoughts about the crop penalty assessed to jockey Júnior Alvarado in riding Sovereignty to a Kentucky Derby triumph. Ed DeRosa looks ahead to the holiday weekend with handicapping of races at Santa Anita and Churchill Downs. Co-host John Cherwa helps to go over some of the listener and reader feedback about Journalism’s Preakness victory. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.
/episode/index/show/ronflatterracingpod/id/36680995