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Ann and Larry are joined by Oaklawn Park’s Racing Analyst Nancy Holthus, who discusses, and handicaps todays Grade 2 Rebel Stakes and talks about all the preparations taking place for the stakes filled racing card at Oaklawn Park this afternoon. Nancy also talks about how and where she became involved in horse racing and mentions how she handicaps on a regular basis and  why racing at Oaklawn Park has become an integral part of training up to the Kentucky Derby.  Woodbine Jockey  David Moran, who is currently mending  from a racing accident at Woodbine last season and he discusses  how the recouperation process is going as he prepares for opening day at Woodbine on April 25th. David also discusses  his son Pietro, who  rode  as an Apprentice Jockey last season and also talks about how his own career began in Ireland and whether there was a learning curve when he moved to North American racing and if so, did  he have  to adjust his riding style accordingly. LongRun Thoroughbred Retirement Society’s Farm Manager , Lauren  Millet, who discusses her role at LongRun and talks about some of the horses currently at the farm including Champion Pink Lloyd. Lauren also discusses the Hillsburgh. Ontario farm and how it became home base for LongRun and mentions how listeners can learn more about either adopting one of the retired horses or donating to the farm itself. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look at The Way It Was in Horse Racing News, Larry talks about last weeks Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds and the PONIES 24-7 connection to the winning horse, who is now the early favorite for the Kentucky Derby. In our new feature, ‘Road Trip,’ Larry talks about the background behind the running of the Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park today and who he believes the race ‘goes through.’ He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today, later in the show.    Key Points:  Nancy talks first about the importance of todays Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park and why she likes a particular horse to win the stakes race. She also discusses the atmosphere leading up to today’s stakes filled card at Oaklawn and what her role as Racing Analyst entails and mentions her background in horse racing and why a career in the ‘business’ was eminent. Nancy also discusses how she would describe herself as a handicapper and mentions that a well-respected person involved in horse racing media was very instrumental to her own career. She also mentions whether there was a race or a racetrack that sold her on wanting to become part of the Thoroughbred industry and discusses what Kentucky Derby points race will have the most influence on this years Derby in May.  David talks about the racing accident that sidelined him for the latter part of the 2023 racing season at Woodbine and how the recouperation process is going. He also mentions how the accident left him feeling sorry for himself, but a trip to the hospital changed his mindset and he mentions when he is expecting to be back riding again. David also talks about his son Pietro and his short career as an Apprentice Jockey last year and whether he is looking forward to riding against him this season. He also talks about how influential his father was to his riding career and what it was like riding during the early years in Ireland and whether he needed to change his riding style when he made the decision to move his tack to Woodbine.  Lauren discusses her role with LongRun and mentions how long she has been working as Farm Manager. She also discusses some of the current horses that are living at the farm including Champion and a Fan Favorite, Pink Lloyd and what it is like to have a Hall of Fame horse on the grounds and whether he has settled into retirement. Lauren also discusses the story behind how LongRun was able to purchase their farm facility in Hillsburgh, Ontario and mentions that the story traces back to a Tor

Ann and Larry are joined by Fair Grounds Track Handicapper Joe Kristufek, who discusses in detail todays Risen Star Stakes and touches upon the some of the other five stakes races, scheduled for Fair Grounds today. Joe also talks about how and where he became involved in horse racing and how he would describe himself as a handicapper. Former Woodbine Jockey Isabelle Wenc, who retired from riding in December and is now working towards a career as a paramedic. Isabelle also mentions whether it was a tough decision to leave horse racing and discusses the Paramedic program  and how heading back to school has come with several challenges so far. Woodbine’s Senior Manager, Simulcast and HPI Services Klaus Ebner , who talks about the growth of the Woodbine simulcast and foreign handle markets  and mentions one particular country that recently became part of the network after 10 years of negotiations.  Klaus also discusses how supplying proper handicapping data for the foreign tracks is front and centre with Woodbine and how they continue to discuss this area with their foreign simulcast partners.; In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look At The Way It Was In Horse Racing News, Larry talks about how former Queen’s Plate winner Mighty Heart has been taken out of retirement and recorded his first workout at Turfway Park last week and who is his new trainer and in our new feature, ‘Road Trip’ , Larry talks about the background behind  the running of the Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds  today and who he believes the race ‘goes through’. He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today.  Key Points:  Joe talks first about the Risen Star Stakes today at Fair Grounds and why he likes a particular horse to win the stakes race. He also talks about the Rachel Alexandra stakes and who he likes to win and discusses how he would describe himself as a handicapper. He also talks about how he became so interested in horse racing and some of the other areas that he is involved in within the industry including managing a horse racing partnership, Brilliant Racing. He also discusses whether he has been impressed by any of the on-track performances in the Kentucky Derby points races so far and whether today’s Risen Star Stakes is a good indicator of what we may see in the Louisiana Derby next month at Fair Grounds Isabelle talks about why it was time to retire from race riding and whether it was a difficult decision and whether she had any regrets. She also talks about why she always wanted to be a Paramedic and how her family is involved in Health Care and mentions about the Paramedic program and how it has come with its challenges. She also mentions how she first applied for the program in Saskatchewan and how she was wait-listed, which accounted for her applying at an Ontario school and getting accepted almost immediately. She also talks about growing up and some of the health challenges that she had to face and how through her own determination she was able to get through them. Klaus discusses his role with Woodbine and for our new listeners explains what constitutes foreign handle. He also talks about how Woodbine’s foreign handle has continued to grow since he was last on the show in 2021 and whether Woodbine is currently looking at other areas for simulcast partners. Klaus also talks about a particular racing jurisdiction which just became part of Woodbine’s simulcast network and why it took almost ten years for them to come on board. He also talks about how people can now bet these foreign horse racing products and talks about how Woodbine is collaborating with its foreign simulcast partners to provide better handicapping tools for their customers. Klaus also discusses a horse, EQUINOX, who was recently voted ‘Longines World’s Best Racehorse of 2023’ and what was so significant about this horse.

Ann and Larry are joined by Tampa Bay Downs Handicapper Ren Carothers, who discusses in detail todays Sam F. Davis Stakes and touches upon the Suncoast Stakes for fillies. Ren  also talks about how it is upsetting that as of last week there is no live horse racing in the state of Michigan now and also discusses  whether there was a handicapper growing up that she followed. RCMP Sergeant Major Scott Williamson who is the Riding Master for the RCMP’s Musical Ride, who discusses the Divestment of Horses program, that finds new homes for retired Musical Ride horses.  Scott also discusses how the decision is made to retire the horses and the requirements necessary for people to participate in the Divestment program. Woodbine Mohawk Park Announcer Ken Middleton, who talks about what it is like to be back in the announcer’s booth after missing time because of a training accident. Ken also mentions where he is in the recouperation process from his accident and talks about the Bill Galvin  Racing Alliance and some of the initiatives  that the Alliance has undertaken over the past couple of years. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look At The Way It Was In Horse Racing News, Larry talks about some of the results from last Saturday’s O’Brien Awards that were held in Charlottetown  and in a new feature, ‘Road Trip’ Larry talks about the background behind  the running of the Sam Davis Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs today and who he believes the race ‘goes through’. He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today.    Key Points:  Ren talks first about the Sam F. Davis Stakes today and why she like a particular horse to win the stakes race. She also talks about how the stakes race is a good indicator of what we may see next month in the running of the Tampa Bay Derby and how there have been several top trainers that have enjoyed good success in the Sam F Davis. Ren also talks about the Suncoast Stakes and who she feels will run a good race today and mentions how she became involved in horse racing initially. Also having spent much of her life in the state of Michigan, Ren talks about the recent closing of the last racetrack in the state to offer live horse racing and why it is a sad time for horse racing and the state of Michigan. She also discusses how she became so heavily involved in handicapping and whether there was a handicapper ‘back in the day’ that could be considered a mentor.  Sergeant Major Williamson talks about the recent Divestment of Horses program that the RCMP offered in December and how it proved to be popular in finding good homes for some of the horses. He also talks about how the RCMP decides when it is time to retire a horse and the process that people that want to adopt need to go through to qualify for the program. He also talks about the breeding program that the RCMP have in place to constantly provide new horses to the Musical Ride and talks about the training program that a person needs to go through to be part of the Musical Ride. He also discusses what is it that makes his job as Riding Master for the RCMP’s Musical Ride so fulfilling and mentions how Woodbine Mohawk Park has been a great partner for the RCMP Musical Ride.  Ken discusses his return to the Woodbine Mohawk Broadcast Booth and whether he had any ‘butterflies’ on that first night of racing. Ken also talks about what stage he is in, recuperating from a serious training accident last year and talks about an important initiative that he is part of the Bill Galvin Racing Alliance. He also talks about Bill Galvin as a person and his major passion for harness racing and mentions some of the initiatives that the Alliance has worked on over the past year. Ken also discusses how someone can volunteer and help in the organization of some of the Alliance’s events 

Ann and Larry are joined by Woodbine Apprentice Jockey Fraser Aebly, who discusses his first win at Woodbine and how it was also his initial time riding on a turf course. Fraser also talks about how it felt special having both of his parents present at Woodbine to watch him win and talks about his agent Gerry Olguin, who was instrumental in convincing him to leave Hastings Park in Vancouver and ride at the bigger Woodbine track. He also mentions some of his goals for the 2024 season and how he is staying in shape in the off season. Former Woodbine Jockey Sheena Ryan, who talks about her riding career and the last training incident in 2022 which virtually ended her career as a Jockey for good. Sheena also talks about what she will be doing as a career choice moving forward and talks about how she continues to rehab from the 2022 riding accident. Standardbred Driver Bob McClure, who is currently on the sidelines because of an off-track accident and what he is doing to keep himself busy right now as he recuperates from the injury. Bob also talks about the horse who he believes will win tonight’s O’Brien Award for Horse of the Year that being Sylvia Hanover and what it was that made her a special racehorse. He also talks about some of the younger racing stock that he was fortunate to drive in 2023  and how he is looking forward to driving them when the stakes season begins in late Spring.; In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look At The Way It Was In Horse Racing News, Larry talks about the recent news that shortly there will be no live horse racing in the state of Michigan and also mentions some of the Kentucky Derby Points races being held today at three US tracks. He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today.  Key Points: Fraser talks first about his first win at Woodbine where he rode the filly Lulu’s Lullaby to victory on the Woodbine Turf Course and how this was also the first time that he rode over a grass surface. Fraser also mentions how having his parents at Woodbine that day to watch him win was extra special and adds that they drove from Vancouver to Toronto to be at trackside. He also talks about the considerable influence that his agent Gerry Olguin has had on his career so far, not only convincing him to leave Vancouver to ride here, but also continuing to work with him to make him a better rider. Fraser also talks about some of the goals that he has set for himself in 2024 and how he would like to better the sixteen wins that he had at Woodbine last season. He also states why it was important for him to move his tack to Woodbine and how a couple of Woodbine Jockeys helped make him feel more comfortable when he got here and mentions what it felt like going through the Woodbine tunnel onto the racetrack for the first time. Fraser also talks about how he is staying in shape as he waits for the Woodbine meet to begin in late April.  Sheena talks about the riding accident that virtually ended her riding career and how she continues to rehab because of the injuries that occurred in the 2022 training accident. She also talks about the horse that fell during the training session and whether she has any animosity towards it and discusses  what her plans are now for her new career as she is officially retired from race riding and how these plans were supported by her family , who have been there for her during the tough times of the past few years. Sheena also mentions that she will still be involved in horse racing in some form and continue as a Yoga instructor and gives out some contact information in case any of our listeners are interested in finding out more about what she is doing now. Sheena also discusses how she will always remain a part of the Thoroughbred industry and mentions some of the top horses that she felt fortunate to ride throughout her career. She also talks about what advice she would give a young person who may want to

Ann and Larry are joined by Gulfstream Park Handicapper Brian Nadeau, who discusses todays Pegasus World Cup Stakes race and the supporting undercard of stakes races at the Florida racetrack. Brian also talks about the Eclipse Awards that took place on Thursday night and mentions how the current Gulfstream Championship meeting has been performing on the pari-mutuel and horse racing side. He also mentions whether there will be a rider at Gulfstream Park who may be set for a ‘break out’ year this racing season. Woodbine Thoroughbred Trainer Ted Holder, who rose to fame last year when his horse, Kaukokaipuu raced in the King’s Plate. Ted also discusses the Barbados Gold Cup and the special significance that it has to  himself and also Woodbine and mentions why a former Woodbine jockey has played a significant part to not only his training career but also his desire to race in the Barbados Gold Cup. Standardbred Trainer Brett MacDonald, who discusses how he became involved in harness racing  and if there was someone that acted as a mentor to his driving career. Brett also discusses what is a typical driving week for him and mentions whether there is any difference when driving on a half-mile track as compared to a larger surface like Woodbine Mohawk Park.; In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look At The Way It Was In Horse Racing News, Larry talks about the recently released stakes schedule that Woodbine Mohawk Park put out this past week and also talks about the Eclipse Awards that were handed out on Thursday evening. He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks.  Key Points:  Brian talks first about the Pegasus World Cup stakes race at Gulfstream Park today and who he believes is the horse to beat. He also talks about one of the other feature races at Gulfstream today and what makes ‘Pegasus Day’ so special. Brian also discusses the Eclipse Awards held at Gulfstream Park this past Thursday night and whether he agreed with the naming of the horse Cody’s Wish, as Horse of the Year. Brian also talks about whether he expects to see a Gulfstream jockey have a ‘break out’ year going forward in 2024 and mentions some of the upcoming stakes at Gulfstream which will serve as ‘Points Races’, towards this years Kentucky Derby.  Ted talks about last years King’s Plate and why he was disappointed in the race his horse Kaukokaipuu ran and if he ever found out the reason for the substandard performance. He also discusses the upcoming Barbados Gold Cup and why he would like to race a horse in this years event which will be held in March and mentions why people in Barbados are so passionate about horse racing. Ted also mentions a couple of horses that he has nominated to the Gold Cup this year and says why the Barbados Gold Cup has such a strong connection with Woodbine. He also discusses a former jockey Ricky Griffith who he has a special relationship with and discusses his stable at Woodbine this coming racing season.  Brett discusses how and why he became part of the Standardbred industry and why a Driver. He also talks about how friends and family have made it a lot easier for him to grow into becoming a Driver and mentions if he remembers his first win. Brett also talks about the relationship he enjoys with two Woodbine Mohawk Park Drivers, James Macdonald, and Bob McClure and whether driving at a half-mile track like Flamboro Downs comes with different challenges than driving at a bigger track like Woodbine Mohawk Park. Brett also mentions how many horses the ‘family business’ expects to have racing this year and in the future, whether there is a race on the horizon that he would like to win. He also mentions why we will see him driving at Woodbine Mohawk Park and Flamboro Downs more in 2024. 

Ann and Larry are joined by Woodbine Trainer Katerina Vassilieva who is at Gulfstream Park and discusses her horse Roaring Forties who is chasing his second straight win in the Sunshine Turf Stakes tomorrow. Katerina also talks about how the 2023 season was her best yet at Woodbine and mentions some horses that we should keep an eye on this season both at Gulfstream and then later at Woodbine. She also discusses how she almost didn’t have a career as a Trainer and names a horse that she considers to be the best she ever trained and why. Standardbred Trainer Desiree Jones, who is currently a finalist for a Future Stars, O’Brien Award and is currently training at Sunshine Meadows Training Centre in Florida. Desiree discusses how she became involved as a Trainer and how many horses she currently has in training and mentions whether having a father who is a Hall of Fame Trainer, could be considered intimidating and whether she always wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps and make her career training horses. Robert Reid Jr. Editor of Woodbine Mohawk Park’s ‘Horseplayers Journal’ who also covers The Raceway at Western Fair District in London and Grand River Downs in Elora. Robert also talks about what the old Greenwood Racetrack meant to him as a fan of harness racing and one special highlight race at Woodbine Mohawk Park last season. Robert also handicaps a couple of races at Woodbine Mohawk Park tonight. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look At The Way It Was In Horse Racing News, Larry mentions about how the Metro Pace  for two-year-olds at Woodbine Mohawk Park will have a purse of $1 million and the first time since 2012 and also discusses the recent return of Track Announcer Ken Middleton to the announcers booth after missing some time, the result of a training accident with one of his horses.   He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today.    Key Points:  Katerina talks first about here horse Roaring Forties who is racing tomorrow at Gulfstream Park in the Sunshine Turf Stakes, a race that he also won last year. Katerina talks about what Roaring Forties is like as a horse and talks about why 2023 was her best season to date as a Trainer. Katerina also talks about the upcoming 2024 race meet at Woodbine and whether she is looking forward to it’s start and discusses how she sells herself to new owners and whether she could be considered a specialist with a certain type of horse. Katerina also mentions whether there is a race that continues to allude her and who was the best horse that she has trained to date. She also mentions a career goal that she in continuing to work towards and why. Desiree talks first about how it feels to be a finalist for the Future Stars O’Brien Award to be handed out on February 3rd and why winning the award would mean a lot to her training career. She also discusses the path to becoming a Standardbred Trainer and whether training horses was something that she always wanted to do. Desiree also discusses whether having a father who’s a Hall of Fame trainer can be intimidating and talks about how she ended up training a major string of Standardbreds. Desiree mentions too about how she had a different career path before deciding to train full time and talks about the Sunshine Meadows Training Centre in Florida where her horses are stabled for the winter and how she is surrounded by many Hall of Fame riders who are also training there.  Robert discusses his role as Editor of the ‘Horseplayer’s Journal’ and as a Handicapping analyst at the Raceway at Western Fair District in London and talks about how the now shuttered Greenwood Racetrack made such an impression on him when he was young and increased his interest in the sport of harness racing. He also talks about what he considers to be the most impressive race last season at Woodbine Mohawk Park and why and some other major riders performances a

Ann and Larry are joined by Woodbine’s Director of Broadcasting Rob Platts, who discusses the recent Media Eclipse Award for Feature Television programming, which the Woodbine Broadcasting team garnered for producing a piece called ‘SECRETARIAT, THE LAST RACE.’ The show focuses on Secretariats last race in the Canadian International and it was aired on the 50th Anniversary of last years International in October. Robert talks about the team behind the production and also discusses his career at Woodbine which began at a young age. Rideau Carleton Raceway Announcer and Standardbred Trainer John MacMillan, who discusses being diagnosed with a Brain Tumor last Summer and how he has been forced to change his lifestyle in order to continue being active in the Standardbred industry. John also talks about  some of the symptoms which led him to seeing a doctor and be given the diagnosis and also talks about the Rideau Carleton 2023 race meet and some of the highlights for the upcoming season which begins in March and mentions how he is continuing to train for a half marathon in the Spring , in Myrtle Beach. Bob Broadstock, President of the Ontario-based Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario Inc., who discusses the Association and in particular a Racing Syndicate designed to bring new owners into the Ontario Quarter horse industry. Bob also talks about the recent Ajax Downs meet and mentions how he originally became involved in Quarter horses. Bob also mentions about how the popularity of Quarter horse racing in Ontario compares to the United States. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look at The Way It Was in Horse Racing News, Larry mentions about Woodbine Jockey Sophia Vives, who is a finalist for an Eclipse Award in the category of outstanding Jockey in North America. He also discusses a horse by the name of Kopion, who was a winner of a Grade 3 stakes race at Santa Anita and her Woodbine/Canadian connections. He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today.  Key Points:  Rob talks first about the making of the award winning ‘SECRETARIAT, THE LAST RACE’ and the team behind the production. He also discusses why the production was released during the telecast of the Canadian International in October and how they tried to bring in as many of the original ‘players’ from the 1973 race into the production and gives a ‘shout out’ to his producer, Tammy Gillanders. He also mentions whether at any time did he and his team ever expect the feature to win an Eclipse Award, and Rob also discusses how he came from a racing family and that he started working at Woodbine in his teens and how he eventually got involved in the Broadcasting side of the business.John talks first about being diagnosed last Summer with a brain tumor and how this setback has forced him to change his approach to training horses and announcing races. He also discusses how he knew it was time to see a doctor and how he was having trouble calling races when he was filling in for Woodbine Mohawk Park announcer, Ken Middleton. John also mentions how he has a good team supporting him now and talks about one race that he called at Rideau Carleton, where the winner of the race was his own and mentions the role he believes the grooms of the horses play behind the scenes. John also talks about how he is still preparing to run in a Half Marathon in Myrtle Beach and how he has been forced to adjust his training regime and does talk about last years Rideau Carleton meet and looks forward to some of the highlights for the upcoming season. Bob discusses the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario Inc., which he is President of and a new ownership initiative that they have designed to attract new owners into the business in 2024. Bob also talks about how he became involved in Quarter horse racing initially and discusses his farm in Skugog Township and how many horses he expects to train in 2024 when the Ajax

Ann and Larry are joined by The Meadowlands COO and General Manager, Jason Settlemoir, who talks about his recent prestigious Stan Bergstein Proximity Award, which is given for outstanding achievement in the harness racing sport. He also talks about the influence that Meadowland’s owner Jeff Gural has had on his career in racing and mentions about the Meadowlands hosting the Breeders Crown races again this October. Woodbine Thoroughbred Trainer Harold Ladouceur, who talks about the important significance of his recent Hall of Fame induction into the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame and why winning the award left him ‘speechless.’  Harold also discusses how he became involved in Thoroughbred racing and if he had any influencers throughout his training career. James Macdonald, Woodbine Mohawk Park’s leading driver, who talks about his record-breaking season in 2023 and if he has any set goals for the 2024 racing season. James also talks about the importance of winning an O’Brien Award as Canada’s leading harness driver and why the award holds a special significance to him. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look at The Way It Was in Horse Racing News, Larry talks about the closing figures of the 2023 Woodbine Thoroughbred Race Meet and talks about a former successful Woodbine Trainer, who recently passed away. He also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks.  Key Points:  Jason talks first about what winning the prestigious Proximity award for harness racing and why the award has a special meaning, being named after legendary harness racing icon Stan Bergstein. He also talks about his working relationship with Meadowlands Racetrack owner Jeff Gural and especially what Jeff has meant to his career in harness racing and discusses the 2023 Meadowland’s racing season. He also talks about the recent announcement where the Meadowlands Racetrack will be hosting the Breeders Crown Championship races once again in October and why he is looking forward to the stakes events. Harold talks first about what it felt like to be named to the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame and the story of how he finally found that he had been selected. He also talks about how he originally got involved in Thoroughbred racing and a couple of people who had a major influence on him at the very beginning. Harold also discusses what he looks for exactly in a young horse, as he is known to have a ‘keen eye’ when selecting them at auction and who was the best horse that he has trained to date. He also discusses the 2024 season which should see him in charge of seventeen horses and talks about some of the horses that raced well for him in 2023, that he is expecting great things from in 2024.  James discusses his record season last year and whether he has any goals set for the 2024 Standardbred harness racing season. He also discusses the upcoming O’Brien Awards of which he is nominated for Outstanding Driver in 2023 and why the O’Brien’s hold a special significance to him. He also talks about what he does when he is not driving to relax and whether he has a support group and what his routine is like before a race night and whether the routine changes if he is preparing for a major stakes race. James also discusses driving styles, namely if it is difficult to go from a 7/8ths mile track like Woodbine Mohawk Park to a smaller half mile track. 

It is an all-Woodbine show, as Ann and Larry are joined by Woodbine’s VP-Stakeholder Relations Jorge Soares, Announcer Robert Geller and Marketing Manager, Racing and Wagering, Tony Elliott. Jorge talks about his new role at Woodbine, his background with the company and a recent honor that was instilled upon him as the new Chair of Directors of the esteemed Ontario Restaurant, Hotel & Motel Association. He also discusses the recent King’s Plate at Woodbine and how the plans are moving ahead for next years edition. Robert summarizes the 2023 Thoroughbred meet at Woodbine and some of the amazing performances on the track both equine and human. Robert also talks about his plans once the racing season shuts down tomorrow and handicaps a couple of races on the Woodbine Saturday racing card and provides two of his best bets of the day. Tony talks about the 2023 racing season at Woodbine Mohawk Park and one of the surprise performances during the year and discusses the upsurge in betting on both HPIbet and Dark Horse. He also talks about the major differences in marketing the Standardbred industry to the Thoroughbred one. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look At The Way It Was In Horse Racing News, being our last show of 2023, Larry talks about in his opinion what were the three major highlights in horse racing this year and also  provides  his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today.  Key Points: Jorge talks first about his role as VP Stakeholder Relations with Woodbine and what his role encompasses. He also discusses where it all began for him with Woodbine and recently, how he was named the Chair of Directors for the Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association and why the Association is so important to him. He also talks about the role that the Association plays and why the Chair of Directors position was so important to him and Woodbine. Jorge also reflects on this year’s King’s Plate and why it was such a highlight of the Woodbine race meet and talks about the status of some of the plans for next year’s event, which includes taking advantage of some of the other assets on the Woodbine property.  Robert describes the 2023 racing season at Woodbine and some of the major performances on the track both equine and human. He also mentions a horse who he believes is a rising star at Woodbine and will be a force to reckon with next season as a four-year-old and discusses his routine when preparing to call a Woodbine race card. Robert also talks about his plans for the Winter once the Woodbine season wraps up tomorrow and handicaps two of the races on today’s Woodbine card and gives out his two Best Bet’s of the day. Tony discusses some of the highlights of the current Woodbine Mohawk Park race meet and talks about the HPIbet and Dark Horse products and how both have continued to grow in popularity. He also talks about some of the ‘break out’ performances on the track and a Standardbred performance that to him was a major surprise and whether there was an adjustment for him going from two smaller harness tracks, Clinton and Western Fair Raceway to his role at Woodbine. He also gives his opinion on who should be Standardbred ‘Horse of the Year’ when the O’Brien Awards are handed out early next year and mentions what is the biggest difference in marketing the Standardbred product as compared to the Thoroughbred one. Tony also mentions how the Winter Mohawk meet will race through to the end of March when it then shuts down for track renovations.

Ann and Larry are joined by  HBPA Ontario President, Sue Leslie, who talks about the role that the HBPA plays in the Thoroughbred horse racing industry  and also discusses the  2023 Thoroughbred Racing Season’s at both Woodbine and Fort Erie and some of the challenges the Ontario Thoroughbred industry was forced to face over the year. She also talks about the future of Thoroughbred horse racing in the province and talks also on how she became so passionate about Thoroughbred racing in the first place. Sue also discusses the first year of the Horsemen’s contract, which was the first of the two-year contract signed. West Point Thoroughbreds’ Ownership Advisor, Jason Blewitt, who discusses some of the West Point horses that had successful racing seasons and mentions some with races coming up to keep an eye on. Jason also discusses the path he took before ending up at West Point and how he became so involved in the Thoroughbred industry. Woodbine’s Senior Manager Communications, Mark McKelvie, who discusses the soon to be completed Woodbine Thoroughbred race meet and some of the racing highlights. He also discusses the challenges caused by ‘Mother Nature’ which the Thoroughbred equestrians were forced to deal with during the summer months and also talks about one of the finest Standardbred racing performances that took place at Woodbine Mohawk Park this year. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look at The Way It Was in Horse Racing News, Larry talks about the recent decision by NYRA to move the Belmont Stakes to Saratoga and why the move has forced a change in distance for the classic event. Larry also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks today.    Key Points:  Sue talks about the role the HBPA plays in the Ontario Thoroughbred industry and talks about the 2023 season’s at Woodbine and Fort Erie and some of the challenges that arose. She also talks about how the wagering handle was at both racetracks and the result of the first year of the Horsemen’s contract between the HBPA and Woodbine. Sue also discusses the effect that sports betting has had on horse racing so far and where she sees the Ontario horse racing industry going in the future. Sue also relates the story behind how she became so passionate for Thoroughbred racing, which eventually led to her role with the HBPA as President.Jason discusses his position as Ownership Advisor for West Point Thoroughbreds and talks about how their horse ownership partnerships work. He also mentions some of the success stories that West Point had on the racetrack this year and talks about the future of a couple of West Point horses that have shown great potential and hopefully great things in 2024. Jason also talks about how he became part of the horse racing industry and the path that eventually led him to West Point Thoroughbreds. Mark discusses some of the highlights of the current Thoroughbred racing season, including the King’s Plate. He also talks about some of the issues caused by nature that caused interruptions in the Thoroughbred racing cards at Woodbine, which were the biproduct of extreme heat and the smoke from the forest fires and why these issues will continue to be addressed in the upcoming years. Mark also talks about Woodbine Mohawk Park and in particular the Mohawk Million and why the win by TCI was such an impressive performance and mentions why the Boxing Day card has a special significance in the harness racing industry. Mark also talks about the upcoming O’Brien Awards for harness racing and the Sovereign Awards for the Thoroughbreds and who he sees potential ‘Horse of the Year Honours’ going to on both racing sets. 

Ann and Larry speak with NYRA’S Director, Communications, Keith McCalmont, who discusses today’s stakes filled card at his Aqueduct track, which includes the Remson Stakes, which is a points race for next year’s Kentucky Derby and and the $500,000 Cigar Mile. Keith also talks about the expected destination for next year’s Belmont Stakes and mentions some of the major ‘highlight reel’ races that took place this past year at the NYRA tracks and discusses how the Thoroughbred racing season unfolded in New York this year. Keith also analyzes some of todays stakes events and gives his opinion on who he believes  has a good chance of winning today. Gulfstream Park’s  Track Handicapper and part of the Broadcast Team, Brian Nadeau,  who explains why the Gulfstream ‘Championship’ Meet during the Winter months is so special to horseplayers and the Thoroughbred  racing industry in general. He also talks about some of the important stakes races this Winter at Gulfstream, including the Pegasus and the Florida Derby and gives his opinion when asked about who he believes should be named Thoroughbred Horse of the Year, when the awards are handed out early next year. Brian also gives a couple of horses that he believes may have a good chance of winning today at Gulfstream Park.  Harness Racing Announcer Shannon ‘Sugar’ Doyle, who discusses the current harness meet at The District  at Western Fair Raceway in London and mentions some of the top Harness Drivers that called Western Fair  ‘home’ before moving on to successful driving careers at the larger harness tracks. Shannon also talks about what it was like calling a card of racing and having his ninety-year-old Mother present in the stands for the first and gives his opinion on who he believes should be awarded the O’Brien Award for Canadian Standardbred Horse of the Year and why he believes so. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look At The Way It Was In Horse Racing News, Larry talks about a recent piece of Sports Art with some Thoroughbred ties that was the sales topper at a recent auction in Kentucky and also gives some details on Woodbine Mohawk Park’s ‘Winter Wonderland & Market’ to be held later today between 3 and 7 pm.  Larry also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks.    Key Points:  Keith discusses today’s card of racing at Aqueduct and the several stakes races and why two of them have major implications for the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby next year. Keith also breaks down a couple of the stakes races and does some detailed handicapping and sums up what the 2023 Thoroughbred racing season was like in New York this past year. He also discusses next year’s Belmont Stakes and where it will be expected to be run because of the construction that currently continues at Belmont Park. Keith also talks about some of his own ‘highlight reel’ races from the past year at the NYRA tracks and what made them so special and talks about whether he misses the days of working at Woodbine and if so why. On this topic he mentions a special Canadian bred horse that holds a special significance to him and talks about his role with NYRA and how some days promoting the Thoroughbred industry, do become very busy.  Brian discusses the Gulfstream Park ‘Championship’ Meet that just opened for business on Friday and what makes this Race Meeting so special for the Thoroughbred industry. He also talks about some of the major stakes races this Winter and discusses the reopening of the Gulfstream Turf Course and overall, what makes Gulfstream Park such a special place to be at during the Winter months. He also talks about the upcoming Eclipse Award for Thoroughbred Horse of the Year and who he believes should win the award and when asked, mentions who was his favorite handicapper growing up and why. Brian also handicaps a couple of races for our listeners to help them with their han

Ann and Larry talk with Woodbine Entertainment’s Executive Vice-President of Industry Relations and People Experience Experience, Monte McNaughton, who was recently hired in this new position after serving in Provincial government since 2011. Monte talks about his recent Woodbine appointment and what his role will be moving forward and discusses some of the resons why he decided to leave politics. Monte also talks about how and where he became interested in horse racing originally in Southwestern Ontario. The Meadowland’s Marketing Coordinator Jessica Otten, who discusses tonight’s FANDUEL CHAMPIONSHIPS tonight and why these races are so important to the harness racing industry and to the season ending Standardbred awards. Jessica also discusses the significance of the Open Pace stakes race tonight and a three-year-old by the name of Confederate that will be competing for the first time tonight against older horses. Jessica also handicaps several of the CHAMPIONSHIP races tonight for our listeners. Woodbine Entertainment’s Vice President, Thoroughbred Racing , Tim Lawson, who discusses the past  week’s ‘Stronger Together’ Discussion which was held in the Woodbine backstretch, with the purpose of updating the horsemen and media on some key topics that will influence the horse racing product in a positive manner over the next  few years. Tim also discusses next year’s Kings Plate and its date and talks about the 2022 Woodbine Thoroughbred season and some of it’s challenges that the industry has had to face. He also talks about a couple of stakes races at Woodbine today and their special significance to the Woodbine meet. In our feature, ‘In Case You Missed It’ A Look at The Way It Was in Horse Racing News, Larry also discusses the ‘Stronger Together’ Discussion as well as the FANDUEL CHAMPIONSHIPS as a lead-in to today’s interviews. Larry also provides his ‘Ponies Picks of the Day’ selections for several North American Racetracks.  Key Points Monte discusses his recent Woodbine appointment and what attracted him to the new Woodbine role. He also discusses how his prior role of Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills allows him the expertise that lends itself well to the future of Woodbine, especially for all the various buildouts taking place which will account for the need of more labour advice that he can provide. Monte also talks about where the interest in horse racing began for him and why he knew it was time to leave politics. Monte also mentions why the new opportunity with Woodbine has him excited for the future and why he is looking forward to the next few years as the Woodbine property continues to expand and attract new fans to the facility.  Jessica discusses tonight’s FANDUEL CHAMPIONSHIPS and their importance to the Standardbred industry and in particular one race that features a three-year-old by the name of Confederate, who will race tonight against older horses. Jessica also discusses her role at the Meadowlands and how she is also heavily involved with her father’s business and his horses stabled in Michigan. She also talks about the special significance of harness racing in Ontario to her and her family and handicaps the FANDUEL stakes races tonight for our listeners.  Tim discusses the recent ‘Stronger Together’ discussion held this past week and talks about some of the announcements made during the session, which included a date for the 2024 King’s Plate and a change to the E.P. Taylor Turf Course in 2025. Tim also discusses the current Thoroughbred season and some of the new challenges that the industry was forced to face this year and talks about today’s two stakes races at Woodbine and in particular the Coronation Futurity and how it is potentially one of the first prep races for next year’s King’s Plate.