Today, Larry goes one-on-one with Kentucky Derby winning trainer Cherie DeVaux, who joins Ponies 24-7 for the first time after making history as the first female trainer to win the famed Kentucky Derby. DeVaux discusses what it meant to win the Derby with Golden Tempo and reflects on the significance of becoming the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner. She also looks back on her path into the racing industry, including her time working for top trainers such as Chuck Simon and Chad Brown, and explains how a career that once pointed toward medicine eventually led her fully into the family business of horse racing. Cherie shares what makes training Thoroughbreds so demanding, talks about Golden Tempo’s stretch run on Derby Day, and looks ahead to what could be next for her Derby winner through the rest of the twenty twenty-six season.

Also today, Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame Managing Director Linda Rainey returns to the show for her annual check-in as the Hall prepares for its fiftieth anniversary class induction ceremony. Linda breaks down the newly announced class of twenty twenty-six, explains the nomination and election process, and previews the induction ceremony taking place Wednesday, August twelfth at the Mississauga Convention Centre. She also gives listeners a closer look at the history of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame, some of the notable displays and artifacts inside the Hall, and how new items are added to the collection throughout the year. Linda also shares how fans can purchase tickets and take part in celebrating this year’s inductees.

Then, Quarter Horse trainer and owner Jennelle McMahon makes her first appearance on Ponies 24-7 to talk about her growing role in the racing industry and her family’s deep connection to the sport. Jennelle discusses the influence of her father, Bill McMahon, who worked as a jockey, trainer, and steward at Woodbine and Fort Erie, and explains how his career helped shape her own path into racing. She talks about becoming involved as an owner and trainer at Ajax Downs, the advice she received along the way, and her early experiences competing in Quarter Horse racing. Jennelle also reflects on the broader impact of Cherie Devaux’s historic Kentucky Derby win for women in the sport and shares what she hopes the future holds for her own racing career.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine, Woodbine Mohawk Park, and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Belmont at Aqueduct for the one hundred fifty thousand dollar Paradise Creek Stakes, a six-furlong turf sprint for three-year-olds.

Today, Larry goes one-on-one with breeder Rafael Weiss, who joins Ponies 24-7 for the first time as excitement builds around Ocelli’s start in the one hundred fifty-first running of the Preakness Stakes. Weiss and his family’s Rosedown Racing operation bred Ocelli, who shocked the racing world with a third-place finish in the Kentucky Derby at odds of seventy to one. Rafael reflects on the emotional roller coaster of watching a horse his family bred nearly win North America’s biggest race and discusses the difficult decisions surrounding whether to retain or sell Ocelli as a yearling following the passing of his father in twenty twenty-four. He also shares insight into balancing the family’s racing operation with his leadership roles in commercial real estate and technology, while discussing what a potential Preakness victory would mean for the future of the Rosedown breeding program.

Also today, Woodbine Mohawk Park General Manager Heather Flaherty joins the show for the first time to preview one of the track’s signature annual events, Fireworks and Family Fun Night. Heather outlines everything fans can expect from the evening, including live racing, family activities, food offerings, giveaways, and a major fireworks display following the card. She discusses the importance of creating accessible community events that introduce new fans and families to harness racing, while also looking ahead to another major date on the Woodbine Mohawk Park calendar, the Pepsi North America Cup in June. Heather also explains the responsibilities that come with overseeing one of the premier Standardbred racing venues in North America.

Then, veteran Standardbred trainer David Menary returns to Ponies 24-7 as he prepares a powerful trio of pacers for the Charles Juravinski Memorial Pace final at Flamboro Downs. Menary discusses Bruno No No No’s record-setting performance in last week’s elimination, where the pacer became the fastest ever over the Flamboro oval while setting a Canadian pacing record on a half-mile track. David also previews his other finalists Sugar Man and Fifth And Five, while reflecting on his journey through the harness racing industry and the milestones that have helped him surpass one thousand career training victories. He shares insight into his current stable, his goals for the season ahead, and some of the horses he believes could have breakout campaigns in twenty twenty-six.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine, Woodbine Mohawk Park, and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Laurel Park for the Grade one Preakness Stakes, a mile-and-three-sixteenths test for three-year-olds and the second jewel of Thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown.

Today, Larry goes one-on-one with Ajax Downs General Manager Emilio Trotta, who returns to Ponies 24-7 following a record-setting opening day for the twenty twenty-six Quarter Horse racing season. Ajax Downs opened its meet on Wednesday with an all-time wagering record of more than two hundred eighty-one thousand dollars bet on the nine-race card, a milestone Emilio discusses in detail as he reflects on what drove the strong turnout and betting interest. He also previews the remainder of the Ajax Downs season, including several special events planned throughout the summer, highlighted by an appearance from the RCMP Musical Ride. Emilio explains the unique appeal of Quarter Horse racing, discusses fan growth and horse population trends, and outlines his goals for the continued expansion of the sport in Ontario.

Also today, jockey Samuel Marin returns to the show following another sensational season at Tampa Bay Downs, where he successfully defended his riding title in dominant fashion. Marin recently broke the single-season wins record at the track and twice recorded six-win days during the meet, continuing the remarkable momentum he has built over the past several years. Samuel reflects on the goals he set entering twenty twenty-six, the role his agent Mike Moran has played in his success, and the adjustments he made after arriving in North America from Venezuela. He also discusses learning to ride on turf for the first time, the mentors who helped him establish himself in the sport, and the major races he still hopes to win as his career continues to rise.

Then, top Woodbine Mohawk Park driver Bob McClure joins Ponies 24-7 to discuss the highly anticipated return of Horse of the Year Beau Jangles, who makes his first start of the season as a three-year-old tonight at Woodbine Mohawk Park. McClure shares what it has been like driving one of harness racing’s fastest-rising stars and explains why Beau Jangles has already captured the imagination of racing fans across North America. Bob discusses the colt’s recent qualifier in Florida, compares him to some of the greatest pacers in the sport’s history, and reflects on the excitement surrounding a horse many believe could become the next true superstar in harness racing. He also provides an update on his own twenty twenty-six campaign and talks about the goals he has set for the season ahead.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine, Woodbine Mohawk Park, and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Churchill Downs for the Grade one Kentucky Derby, the iconic mile-and-a-quarter test for three-year-olds and the most prestigious race in Thoroughbred racing.

Today, Larry goes one-on-one with handicapper and former NHL player Eddie Olczyk, who returns to Ponies 24-7 on Kentucky Derby Day to break down the biggest race in North American Thoroughbred racing. Known for his work on national television broadcasts and his deep knowledge of the sport, Olczyk analyzes this year’s Kentucky Derby field, discusses the key prep races that shaped the lineup, and shares his thoughts on which horses have the best chance to win on the first Saturday in May. He also provides insight into his handicapping approach, reflects on his long-standing passion for horse racing, and touches on his parallel career in hockey, including his time as a Stanley Cup champion player and coach, and his current role covering the National Hockey League playoffs.

Also today, Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith joins the show to discuss his legendary career and his opportunity to make history once again in the Kentucky Derby. With more than five thousand wins and over three hundred fifty million dollars in purse earnings, Smith remains one of the most accomplished riders in the sport’s history. He talks about what continues to motivate him at this stage of his career, reflects on his most memorable victories including a Triple Crown win aboard Justify, and previews his mount So Happy in this year’s Derby. Mike shares his thoughts on the colt’s progression, his chances at the mile-and-a-quarter distance, and what it would mean to capture a fifth Kentucky Derby victory and become the oldest jockey ever to win the race.

Then, Woodbine Mohawk Park Standardbred Race Secretary Jim Gillespie returns to Ponies 24-7 to discuss his role overseeing race conditions and entries at one of North America’s premier harness racing venues. Now well into his tenure as race secretary, Gillespie reflects on his transition into the role, the mentorship he received from industry veterans, and the challenges of maintaining strong and competitive race cards. He also looks ahead to the upcoming stakes season at Woodbine Mohawk Park, discusses the importance of attracting quality horses to the circuit, and shares his perspective on some of the top performers currently in the Standardbred ranks, including standout names expected to compete throughout the season.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine, Woodbine Mohawk Park, and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Churchill Downs for the Grade one five million dollar Kentucky Derby, a mile-and-a-quarter test for three-year-olds and the most iconic race in Thoroughbred racing.

Today, Larry goes one-on-one with jockey Ryan Munger, who returns to Ponies 24-7 following a standout opening weekend at Woodbine where he recorded four wins from just six mounts. Munger reflects on what went right over those two days, how he prepared for the start of the twenty twenty-six season, and the momentum he carries after his most successful Woodbine campaign last year, which included seventy-eight wins and more than three point six million dollars in purse earnings. He also discusses the path that brought him to Woodbine, including riding stops in South Africa, Singapore, and Zimbabwe, and shares his goals for the upcoming season as he looks to build on his recent success and continue climbing the rider standings.

Also today, Woodbine trainer Bill Tharrenos joins the show to discuss his strong start to the new season and the continued development of his stable following another productive winter at Gulfstream Park. Bill talks about his experience at the Gulfstream Championship Meet, reflects on a twenty twenty-five season that saw him record thirty-five wins and over one million dollars in earnings, and outlines expectations for twenty twenty-six. He also previews one of his top three-year-olds, Silver Is Best, who is set to compete in the Woodstock Stakes, a key early season race for horses with aspirations toward the King’s Plate. Bill shares insight into his training approach, the makeup of his stable, and what he looks for when identifying promising young horses.

Then, jockey’s agent Tom Knutz joins Ponies 24-7 for the first time to provide a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important and often overlooked roles in horse racing. Tom discusses his responsibilities as an agent, including managing mounts, building relationships with trainers, and guiding the careers of the riders he represents. He also talks about his work with accomplished jockey Emisael Jaramillo, who has enjoyed strong success since moving his tack to California, and explains what he looks for in a jockey when taking on their book. Tom offers insight into the demands of the job, the challenges of navigating different racing circuits, and what continues to motivate him within the sport.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine, Woodbine Mohawk Park, and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Aqueduct for the Woodhaven Stakes, a one mile turf race for three-year-olds and an emerging fixture on the spring racing calendar.

Today, Larry goes one-on-one with Woodbine track announcer Robert Geller, who returns to Ponies 24-7 as the Thoroughbred meet officially gets underway at Woodbine. One of the most recognizable voices in Canadian racing, Geller discusses opening day and what it means to kick off another season at one of North America’s premier racetracks. He reflects on how he prepares during the offseason, whether the excitement of opening day still brings nerves to the announcer’s booth, and how many races he has called throughout his distinguished career. Robert also shares his thoughts on the current Kentucky Derby trail, discusses his approach to handicapping early in the season, and provides insight into special initiatives he is involved with, including upcoming events tied to the racing calendar.

Also today, veteran Woodbine trainer Gail Cox joins the show to talk about her continued success on the racetrack, including the recent victory of Miss Vyvyanne at Gulfstream Park, the filly’s fourth consecutive win since being claimed for thirty-two thousand dollars last summer. Gail reflects on her journey into training, the mentors who helped shape her career, and her long-standing connection to Sam-Son Farm and its impact on Canadian Thoroughbred racing. She also discusses her current stable, plans for the upcoming season, and the possibility of competing in the Grade two Elkhorn Stakes at Keeneland with Dancing in Danile, who sits on the also eligible list. Gail shares her thoughts on what it takes to maintain success as a trainer and looks ahead to her goals for the year.

Then, jockey Romero Maragh makes his first appearance on Ponies 24-7 as he begins a new chapter in his career at Woodbine. With more than three hundred career wins and over sixteen million dollars in purse earnings, Maragh discusses his decision to move his tack to Woodbine and what attracted him to the opportunity, including the new Empire-Trillium Series. He reflects on the challenges he has faced throughout his career, including injuries that cost him mounts in major races, and how he stayed resilient through those setbacks. Romero also talks about growing up in a racing family, the influences that guided his path into the sport, and his goals for the upcoming season as he looks to secure his first graded stakes victory.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine, Woodbine Mohawk Park, and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Keeneland for the Grade two Elkhorn Stakes, a mile-and-a-half turf test for older horses and one of the weekend’s marquee events.

Today, Larry goes one-on-one with Keeneland’s Associate of Sales Development William “Buff” Bradley, who joins Ponies 24-7 for the first time to share the remarkable story of a former stakes-winning horse named The Player, who has found a new purpose as an ambassador at the Kentucky Horse Park. Once a successful racehorse, The Player’s journey took a dramatic turn after an injury, eventually leading to a second career where he now helps represent the Thoroughbred breed to the public. Buff discusses the decision-making process behind transitioning The Player into this new role, the horse’s personality and impact as a fan favorite, and the deeper connection he has to the Kentucky Horse Park. He also outlines his role at Keeneland, reflects on his background in racing, and explains what makes Keeneland one of the most special venues in the sport.

Also today, Robbie Timmins, a director with the non-profit Thoroughbred aftercare organization CANTER, joins the show to discuss the important work being done to retrain and rehome retiring racehorses. Founded in Michigan in nineteen ninety-eight, CANTER operates through a network of dedicated volunteers who provide rehabilitation, retraining, and placement opportunities for Thoroughbreds transitioning into second careers. Robbie explains how the organization functions without paid staff, highlights the role of its various chapters across the United States, and discusses partnerships such as those with Michigan State University that support veterinary care and education. He also outlines how horses are retrained into different disciplines, how the organization is funded, and how listeners can get involved in supporting CANTER’s mission.

Then, newly inducted Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame jockey Richard Dos Ramos joins Ponies 24-7 to reflect on a distinguished riding career that included more than two thousand one hundred wins and purse earnings exceeding sixty million dollars. After multiple nominations, Richard was finally selected for the Hall of Fame class of twenty twenty-six, marking a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to the sport. He looks back on his early days in racing, recalls his first rides and victories, and discusses some of the standout horses and moments that defined his career. Richard also shares insights into the mentors who influenced him, the challenges he faced along the way, and how he now spends his time following his retirement from the saddle.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine Mohawk Park and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Keeneland for the Grade three Lexington Stakes, a mile-and-a-sixteenth test for three-year-olds and a late opportunity to earn points on the road to the Kentucky Derby.

Today, Larry goes one-on-one with Keeneland’s Director of Communications Gabby Gaudet, who joins Ponies 24-7 for the first time to break down one of the premier Kentucky Derby prep races of the spring, the Grade one Blue Grass Stakes. With a purse of one million two hundred fifty thousand dollars, the Blue Grass Stakes has long been a key stepping stone on the road to Churchill Downs, attracting top three-year-olds looking to secure their place in the Kentucky Derby. Gabby analyzes this year’s field, discusses the strength of the Keeneland spring meet, and explains what makes the historic Kentucky racetrack such a special destination for both fans and horsepeople. She also previews other stakes action on the card, including the Shakertown Stakes, and shares insight into her career path and how she became one of the sport’s most respected voices in racing and handicapping.

Also today, two-time Kentucky Derby winning jockey Mario Gutierrez joins the show to share his remarkable story of perseverance both on and off the racetrack. From humble beginnings in Veracruz, Mexico, where he describes his childhood as having “no shoes, nothing,” to becoming a two-time Kentucky Derby champion aboard I’ll Have Another and Nyquist, Mario reflects on the journey that shaped his career. He discusses the influence of owner Paul Reddam and trainer Doug O’Neill, the challenges he faced during a difficult period in twenty twenty-four, and the devastating fire in early twenty twenty-five that destroyed his family home and forced a major life reset. Now based in Kentucky, Mario talks about rebuilding his career, recent success at Gulfstream Park, and his goals moving forward as he looks to return to top form in twenty twenty-six.

Then, Century Downs Assistant Racing Manager Josh Murphy joins Ponies 24-7 for the first time as the Alberta track kicks off its two thousand twenty-six Standardbred meet. Josh provides an overview of the upcoming season, which runs through late August, and highlights key stakes races and major dates on the calendar. He also discusses the track’s growth, including the addition of night racing, and whether the closure of racing in British Columbia has led to an increase in horse population and participation in Alberta. Josh shares his background in racing, explains what a typical day looks like in his role, and gives listeners a preview of what they can expect from opening day at Century Downs.

In our feature “In Case You Missed It,” Larry recaps the biggest racing headlines from the past week across North America. Later, he delivers his Ponies Picks of the Day, sponsored by Rocket Ship Racing, highlighting potential wagering opportunities at Woodbine Mohawk Park and several other tracks racing today. And in this week’s Road Trip, Larry heads to Aqueduct for the Grade two Wood Memorial Stakes, a mile-and-an-eighth test for three-year-olds and another important stop on the road to the Kentucky Derby.