Going In Circles

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I talk about current events in racing, why we talk about the negative issues, why the HISA veterinarian summit won’t find any smoking gun re:CD breakdown issue, why allowing trainers to run 3 horses in overnight races is a terrible idea, comments about the latest Going in Circles Digest piece about racing’s future and speaking truth about some of todays stakes races.

On tonight’s delayed due to technical difficulties show Barry and I kick around the Preakness weekend and talk about how we each came away with similar emotions about the entire couple of days. We also discuss the bizarre notion that asking questions and pointing out flaws is a forbidden exercise when it comes to horse racing regulation in the eyes of some on the day that HISA went into effect. We reveal why many Derby horses wouldn’t be coming back to race in the Preakness with a 4 week gap that you won’t hear discussed anywhere else (it’s a real thing too). Plus news that we might get a horse! Check it out!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss a plethora of current topics including why changing the dates of the Triple Crown races is folly and will have negative repercussions for a bunch of divisions beyond the Three year old dirt horses. We also delve into the not so shocking news that lawyers are acting like lawyers, why regulation is a perception problem more than anything and a frank conversation on how the business of racing is just sucking the enjoyment right out of so many.

On tonight’s episode we talked about the wild Kentucky Derby weekend that was just brimming with controversy and too bad vibes outside of the big win by Mage whose story is really a great one. Barry and I talk the issues plus recap the big race plus we still don’t know why Talk of the Nation was scratched…

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the two huge cards of racing coming up on Kentucky Oaks and Derby days. We glance over the races and point out some interesting names on the overnight, talk about how little buzz this years Oaks has (almost none), take a quick look at some of the undercard races including what might be the best race run this year (not the Derby btw) before we tackle some glaring issues (again). Check it out!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we discuss a wide range of topics including the actual viability of racing beyond the near future and how the lack of action on behalf of the tracks in regards to horsemen and bettors grave concerns might be telling. Plus somehow we talk the Republic of Moldova, the last race at Santa Anita Sunday, Finger Lakes opening day and pro wrestlers of the 80’s into the conversation as well.

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the Lexington Stakes from last Saturday, Irad doing Irad things, the Parx DQ from today and how it might be better adjudicated. How HISA is dropping the ball by not revamping and standardizing on track rules of racing, the Makers Mark and how the perception issue that late odds drop is killing any chance for growth, why single wallet is not gonna be a huge boost, and why we need to fix the actual racing product more than anything. Check it out!

On tonight’s Big Monday show we talk about the three final 100 point preps from the weekend, discuss the surprise announcement made by the meets leading trainer at Fair Grounds to step away from training and have a frank discussion about just how negative the backside atmosphere is currently. Check it out!

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the weekends big events, the Florida and Arkansas Derbies, the controversy over the incorrect time initially given to Forte, disgust that Jimmy Jerkens isn’t training a barnful of good horses, some different ways that we look at races beyond the norm, respect for Age of Empire and a question mark about him going forward, kudos to the OP stewards for “doing something”, a lack of passion and just plain fatigue and how it plagues the sport, the TimeLord is an expert timer, why trash talk in sports is good and a lot of people are hypocritical about it and a whole lot more!

On tonight’s Going in Circle’s Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the Louisiana Derby and the FG Oaks, offer a suggestion for Hoosier Philly’s next race, Barry talks his day at Tampa Bay Downs for Florida Cup day and the stunning performance from Munnys Gold, the Japanese showing at the Dubai World Cup and why if they want to win the Kentucky Derby they should take a lesson from Bold Arrangement, betting strategies that go against the prevailing handicapping winds, 🚫 high ticket prices for big event days and a quick good luck for Snipers 4-3 in the Finals of the Joe Kristufek NBA fantasy league (Clydefrazierssuits was last 🤦🏼‍♂️) oh yeah we HISA’ed too. Check it out!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the marathon Louisiana Derby card this coming Saturday, plus touch a little on the Dubai Cup races, how does the NCAA basketball tournament resemble racing, some Bullet Bob Meyer stories and a whole lot more!

On tonight’s Going in Circles show we recap the Tampa Bay Derby card with our impressions of Tapit Trice and the rest of the day for which Barry served as a guest TV analyst. We also talk about the lunacy of Dark day racing Twitter, how you can’t tell if horses are “juiced” by looking at a picture, choosing who might be clean and who might be cheating is folly, and how the solutions to racings ills aren’t what most think they are. Plus we talk about a whole lot more, my feelings on Arizona winning March Madness and a dissertation on why the new HISA testing rules can potentially be disastrous.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we talk about a wide variety of topics starting with the 3 triple crown preps from this last weekend, the Fountain of Youth that featured the return of 2yo champion Forte; the San Felipe that had 3 ex-Baffert runners yet Tim Yakteen won it with his own runner Practical Move and the Gotham which was a wild race in the mud, won by Raising Cain under a superior ride by Jose Lezcano. We also discuss the latest stewards screw up, the lack of true Derby trail contenders as we close in on 2 months to the first Saturday in May, why consolidation and the industry shrinking is bad, why tracks don't work together on stuff that we see yet they do many joint ventures behind the scenes when it suits them, and a whole bunch more!

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap last Saturdays Rebel stakes, talk about the latest GIC Digest which is a grading of all the Derby preps run so far, preview the Fountain of Youth card Saturday from Gulfstream and a whole lot more!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I have a long reaching conversation about a variety of topics including last weekends Risen Star day card at FG, the bizarre grass situation there, a need for night vision goggles, our obligatory Baffert conversation on who might go where, what can the game do better for players, why we can’t just be like Hong Kong or Japan, why industry insiders should stop with the tone deaf defense of trainers with gaudy records, thank you to Jordan Blair stable and more 🎙

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday Show Barry and I recap the weekend’s Derby Prep action, preview next Saturdays prep, the Risen Star from FG and some of the other stakes action. Barry also tells us about his day at Tampa Saturday where he acted as a guest handicapper for Sam Davis card and hear about some of the behind the scenes action! 🏇🏻🎙

On this weeks going in Circles Big Monday Show we take a look at last weekends Derby preps from Santa Anita and Gulfstream Park, plus some of the other undercard races, take a look ahead to Barry’s appearance with the Tampa Bay crew for Saturday’s Sam Davis day and say Happy birthday to Pete Nice and look forward to Gronk kicking a FG during the Super Bowl!

On tonight’s Going in Circle’s Big Monday show Barry and I recap the Pegasus card from Gulfstream Park, talk about his trip to the races and impressions of the afternoon. We also discus the disturbing trend of pricing out the day to day supporters of the industry on its big event days, the CA Derby prep (and other related) issues and some sad news of the passing of our friend and great racing fan Kerry Duplessis 😔

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I discuss last Saturday’s Lecomte stakes from Fair Grounds and what impact it may have on the Derby Trail. We also look forward to this weekend’s Pegasus Day card and also take a quick look at Saturday’s Southwest stakes card at OP where the superpowers collide with a Brad Cox trio facing off against Bob Baffert’s Arabian Knight. We also talk about the difficulties modern day bettors face and how sifting through the readily available information and deciding what really matters and what isn’t is vitally important. Shorter show than usual but hopefully still worth a listen

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday Show, Barry and I are joined by special guest Sid Fernando! In a wide ranging conversation about many different racing issues. We first talk about how Sid got into racing, his various roles and jobs in the game including bloodstock and consulting with his company Werk Thoroughbreds and his writing career with DRF, Thoroughbred Times, Trainer Magazine, TDN and other places. Frank discussions about racing including financial responsibility and how it has affected the game, media coverage changes, racings presentation conundrum, how the sales game/commercial market has changed breeding and stallions, Sid’s overview on the best stallions of the last 50 years, what they have in common (surprisingly) and a whole lot more! It’s long but it’s good!

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the latest Going in Circles Digest piece which is a Wishlist for racing in 2023. We talk about our hopes for racing in the new year, what changes we’d like to see and a whole bunch of other ideas that we have. We also recap last weekends races that might have some impact on the Kentucky Derby trail including the Sham from Santa Anita, the Jerome from Aqueduct and an allowance race from Gulfstream Park. Check it out and let us know what your wishes for the new year are!

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I kick off our 4th season which makes me laugh considering I wasn’t sure that we’d even make it through one! We talked about 2022 and many of the racing topics and issues that were the big stories, a quick recap of some of last weeks stakes action and had a frank conversation about all sorts of things that we hope to see changed in 2023 and beyond including a real focus on growing the sport via its actual customers, the ones that would be willing to spend time listening to a podcast like this. Happy new year everyone!

On the final edition of the Going in Circles Big Monday show of 2022, Barry and I talk the opening day card at Santa Anita, what the results told us, a little coverage of GP, a look back at the 2022 year and where we might be heading as we make it to 2023!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry is back from his one week absence, we talk about some of the latest racing headlines including an upset in the Los AL Futurity, graded stakes downgrading and how the industry still continues to not be forward thinking in connecting various stakes in series and how the Breeders Cup can assist, the GP turf Sprint mystery, why racehorse aftercare is so difficult and what a massive undertaking it would be to put together a comprehensive national program, register disgust that a permanent funding solution hasn’t been found for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund and Barrys Christmas plans! Check it out!

On tonight’s show special guest Eric Smith will share stories from his days as an assistant to trainer Neil Howard during the 90’s when they were a barn to be reckoned with. We reminisce about some of the great horses that we were around including Holy Bull, Summer Squall, Sky Beauty and a whole host of others. Plus hear Eric’s view of how modern day racing has changed since he was on the backside and how that affects the way we see things. Barry will be back next week and we will be featuring our “Worst of 2022” awards in various categories such as “worst ride” and worst DQ” among others. Let us know if you have a category that deserves recognition!

On this mega-edition of the Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I review some of the big stakes from last weekend including Mind Controls swan song in the Cigar Mile, Julia Shining and Dubyuhnell in the 2yo stakes at Aqueduct, how to rate slow fig performances by talented horses and why betting against is the long term play, a rant against HIWU/HISA and the “new rules” discused in a TDN story today, which feel like a giant disaster waiting to happen for racing by adding sharks to already murky waters, talk complete misconceptions about horsemans organization’s and the power that they hold (not much) and why the Knicks need a new direction

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the Thanksgiving weekend action including the upset in the Clark, as the famed Derby winner Rich Strike was defeated (as usual), the possibly Derby Trail aspirations for Golden Rod winner Hoosier Philly, Instant Coffee overcoming a soft pace when winning the KY Jockey Club plus handicap racing and the mistake racing made when it eliminated so many of them. Plus Turf at GP, no turf at FG, hoping for spring turf at CD, the potential weak fields for the Cigar Mile and Remson, (which I may witness in person), is Bol Bol the greatest basketball player ever and my frustration with the New York Knickerbockers (the Time Lord section).

On this week’s edition of the Big Monday Show Barry and I touch on a plethora of topics including some meaningful stakes action from Churchill, the Clark featuring Rich Strike, why his winning it shouldn’t be a factor in 3yo Eclipse talk, the 5th circuit court’s decision that HISA is unconstitutional and the typically over the top reaction by its supporters, what SHOULD happen re:regulation including a different checklist of items that need addressing that weren’t covered and why that is important to the industry in general, a quick Chad Brown vs Swifthitter Twitter battle recap (pay money to see them in the ring for charity) and touching on Gary West’s odd one horse crusade against racing people that don’t “put racings interests first” (which would seem to disqualify most everyone) and other assorted nonsense! Appreciate if you do listen in! We also will be on the Game of Silks Twitter Spaces Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 eastern, we will post links so you can find us!🎙️

On tonight’s Big Monday show we bat around a few topics like the Eclipse awards, why the powers that be need to offer more guidance to voters, some possible new categories, who should be eligible, should voters have to give reasoning for their selections (YES!), stop treating Mile races as sprints, should female horses get to identify as males (yeah we went there) and who is running in where next spring including the Pegasus, Middle East, Big Cap and others. Plus I admit I was happy CD was off the turf this weekend, Claiming Crown finances and my call for the dismissal of Thibs (Google him). Oh and a shameless lobbying attempt for the Steve Byk show to get an Eclipse and if he doesn’t, a new category should be created!

On tonight’s Breeders Cup post-race wrap up, Barry and I discuss Flightline, his huge win in the Classic, his retirement and why it was the only move that made sense, the $4.6 million share sold in him today at Keeneland; the other races including Turf domination from Appleby and O’Brien, why our grass horses aren’t competitive, questions about why the Sprint division is devoid of fast horses, Forte the new KY Derby future book favorite and what will racing look like in 2023?

The annual Going in Circles Breeders Cup Preview featuring Barry Spears and special analyst Jason Beides! The guys break down each of the 14 Breeders Cup races, making observations, pointing out things that you may have missed in the pps and fading chalk wherever it looks vulnerable! Sponsored by PlayUp Racebook you won’t want to play the BC races without listening to the guys!

On tonight’s Breeders Cup week edition, Barry and I talk the news of the day, the BC draw and the defection of Jack Christopher. Also discuss regulatory gray areas, how horse safety is important but how unfair the process can be. Plus news about new sponsor PlayUp Racebook and much more!

On this weeks Big Monday Show Barry and I talk Breeders Cup news, a fresh batch of current runners heading off to retirement, an update on my trip to Kentucky for the Fasig Tipton Yearling sale and Keeneland, next weeks podcast schedule and lots more!

On this weeks Big Monday show, Barry and I talk about the paltry stakes action from last weekend, Breeders Cup pre-entries, discuss the debut of Julia Shining and the lunacy of running her back in the BC Juvy fillies, kick around more HISA stuff including why a 19 person committee is too many people and a lot of other stuff!

On this mega-pint edition of the Going in Circle’s Big Monday show Barry and I are joined by TDN’s Joe Bianca to recap all the final BC prep action from Keeneland, Baqueduct and Santa Anita. Among the topics Nest vs Malathaat, the new plan is the old plan for Golden Pal, can Cave Rock lose the Juvenile, what can be done to help California racing, is the BC juvy fillies dirt the best betting race on the card, why are connections fearful of speed in grass races despite the high frequency of turf winners taking advantage of early and tactical speed, racing’s big picture and can we continue to shrink as an industry and still remain relevant? It’s long but it’s good! Check it out!!

On tonight’s Big Monday Show Barry and I talk about the suspension given to Rich Strike’s jockey, Sonny Leon, for his rough riding in the Lukas Classic on Saturday. Also talk about the results of that race, Life is Good’s not so impressive Woodward and what it means for him moving forward, Barry speaks of the sort of empty feeling this round of preps gave him, some Meadowlands stories from the Jerkens days including Filiberto Leon and the groom with the wooden leg! Check it out! 🪂

On this weeks BIG MONDAY SHOW, Barry and I recap the big PA Derby Day card which featured the return of Taiba and an emerging three year old filly named Society. We also preview this coming weeks stakes action, show disdain for authority (at least one authority) and mock those who shouldn’t quit their day jobs to become NFL scouts!

On tonight’s Going in Circles BIG MONDAY show Barry and I recap the weekends stakes action including the first KY derby/Oaks point races at Churchill Downs. We also talk about the changes to that point system that were announced Friday and how they will be beneficial. Also discuss this weekends nice PA Derby card including an excellent version of the Derby. Plus a Twitter Spaces schedule and much more! 🐬💵

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the races at Kentucky Downs from last weekend. Touch on some of the Baffert 2yo’s at Del Mar. Some scorn for the Del Mar and Monmouth Stewards and also for HISA for not including on-track rules as part of its oversight which is a huge error that we go over. Plus some announcements of some announcements! Check it out! 🏴‍☠️

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I wrap up the Saratoga meet which ended this afternoon. We talk about Flightline and why coming back next year might be a mistake. Also discuss some other big winners from the weekend and various other issues and questions!

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I talk about Epicenter’s huge Travers win and where he sits in regard to the BC Classic. We also recap the rest of that Travers Day card, Malathaat is back, Gufo crushes my soul, Cody’s Wish runs amazing race in Forego and a bunch of others. Plus we talk the latest baffling anti-owner HISA ruling about Drafted and his jockey. Plus an announcement about a party that everyone that listens to the show is invited to and a lot more!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday Show we talk about Nest and her big Alabama win, discuss the Travers on Saturday and how the three year old colt division is starting to look thin. We also wonder why people who claim to like racing are so quick to publicize horse deaths as though they are providing some morbid service. The reason that racing isn’t to blame for all of its participants issues and a lot more.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap Barry’s Saratoga trip this past weekend, talk about the Saratoga Special and Damon’s Mounds big win, Casa Creed finally getting a big two turn 🏆 , a major bad beat gambling story, secret food spots, free 🥝 kiwis, a rant on the racing suits finally realizing that “Hey supertrainers might not be so great after all 🙄” and “we need more new owners 🙄🙄” which happen to be things that we’ve been talking about for years. Plus we announce our new Going in Circles division rankings being released on Tuesday! Check it out!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I recap the stakes action from the weekend including Life is Good’s Whitney where more people seemed to be talking about the ride than the race itself. Plus I didn’t like the new, off-the-pace Golden Pal though Barry will give him another chance. Stewards as always are stewarding erratically and we discuss that as well as the HUGE Going in Circles Weekend with Barry shipping in on Thursday! Check it out! 🎪🏆💵🏇🏻

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap the weekends big races including Epicenter’s re-emerging as leader of the three year old division, software tote issues, a terrible stewards call plus some other shaky calls, no karaoke ever, countdown till Barry’s arrival in Saratoga plus a whole lot more🔥!

On tonight’s Big Monday show we have a lot to talk about between the upset in the Haskell by Cyberknife, the huge race run by Nest in the CCA Oaks, Claireire running knocking off Malathaat in the Shuvee, the ‘No Contest’ race in Saratoga’s 7th on Sunday, the late surface fiasco on Thursday at the Spa and another 🙄 DQ in California. Check out the Going in Circles daily Saratoga blog too!

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap the big turf festival races from Belmont last weekend, touch on the Indiana and Iowa Derby’s, do a little preview on the upcoming Saratoga meet, talk wagering strategy, and explain why racing never had the ability to police itself despite that being a popular refrain every time something goes wrong.

On our special 4th of July Going in Circles Big Monday show we recap a busy stakes schedule as the Churchill Spring meet comes to a conclusion, Life is Good preps for the Whitney, Olympiad does the same in the Stephen Foster and Charge It hip checks his way to a 23 length score in the Withers! Check it out!

On tonight’s special 200th edition of the Going in Circles Podcast, Barry and I are joined by TimeformUS’s Craig Milkowski to discuss the small fields that have plagued the graded stakes schedule, what causes this and how we can potentially fix it. We also talk about the upcoming Saratoga and Del Mar meets, wonder about the impact that the country’s economic woes will have on those prestigious summer meets. We also speak about what the HISA deadline will have on the industry starting Saturday. Tune in! 🏇🏽

On tonight’s Big Monday show we look ahead to Saratoga and the big Summer meets but our main topic is the HISA situation which has been rather unsettling regardless of which side of the fence you are sitting on. If you have even the slightest bit of involvement or interest in thoroughbred horse racing, this topic is of extreme importance as the potential to shape the future of the industry is at stake and it’s not particularly clear at the present time if that will be a positive or a negative trend.

On tonight’s Going in Circle’s BIG MONDAY show Barry and I recap Mo Donegals win in the Belmont Stakes, again refute the idea that changing the Triple Crown is a good idea, wonder what lays ahead for blowout winners Jack Christoper and Fliteline and hope that the extremely lightly raced don’t become a trend, give props to Clairiere for her game win in the Phipps, also talk about Jackie’s Warrior, the atrocious ride by Hollie Doyle in the Belmont Gold Cup and more HISA talk as the July 1st deadline gets closer. Check it out!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the Belmont Stakes, why the undercard seems to be underwhelming, the general malaise on New York’s roadways, why the $3 Belmont Late pick 3 hasn’t caught on at all, Gulch vs Kona Gold in Hall of Fame standing, Memorable Met Mile’s, how “modernizing” racing has hurt it and why the Triple Crown including the Belmont should be left alone, why action bets drain your bankroll, and a public service announcement for owners and trainers regarding HISA (yes it is a mess but you need to get signed up before they scratch your horses) and people that Chuck has irrational hatred for (RIP Mike Bossy) and career advice for those who attend that “school” in Tempe. 🔥

On tonight’s Memorial Day Big Monday show Barry and I talk about a LOT of racing issues including HISA and it’s clunky rollout and potential crushing outcomes on July racing, the horse shortage that is plaguing racing circuits nationwide not just in California, reminisce about how difficult it was to 1. Make a bet 2. see races from other jurisdictions outside your home tracks and 3. Just get past performances (DRF). Plus how I handicapped a race to perfection and still managed to not cash a single ticket on it and a bunch of other stories including a status update on the scheduling of our Saratoga soirée which will surely be the highlight of the summer party scene! Check it out! 🇺🇸

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I review the Preakness weekend and talk about Early Voting’s win, Epicenter’s Trip, Happy Jack’s interference and a lot more that happened on the undercard that day. We also discuss the odd sentiment for changing the Triple Crown and why that potentially could be the worst thing that could be done and why. Also the breaking news about an insane decision by the NYSGC to suspend a Clocker for basically doing his job. Check it out!!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday Show we preview this Saturdays Preakness, discuss the absence of Rich Strike and why he might be making a mistake skipping the race, the Blackeyed Susan and undercard plus why a card doesn’t have to be “great” to still have excellent betting opportunities

On tonight’s BIG MONDAY show we recap Derby weekend, the huge upset by Rich Strike, why it means a lot and why it also doesn’t mean anything. Plus Oaks coverage, the great undercard stakes, who might run in the Preakness and who might skip it plus a lot of other stuff too! Check it out!

On the annual Kentucky Derby and Oaks preview show Barry Spears and I go over the fields for the big races this weekend and also take a look at the undercard stakes for both days! Check it out and hopefully we can steer you in the right direction! No chalk zone 🚫

On tonight’s edition of the Going in Circle’s Big Monday Show Barry and I discuss the post position draw for both the Derby and Oaks and how for the most part it isn’t nearly as important as everyone makes it out to be (with a few notable exceptions). We kick around the morning line and where we would have made changes from the official ML, quickly go over the undercard stakes on both days and laugh at the “importance” that some people put on videos of horses working. Plus a whole lot more! 🔥

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday Show we discuss the reemergence of Classic Causeway and now his presence may alter the plans of a couple other contenders. We also talk about how people dwell on every little piece of information, useful or useless when it comes to Derby time. Go over the deep and contentious field for the Kentucky Oaks, recap some of last weeks limited stakes action and offer some free advice to the racing powers that be about connecting the early season older male dirt horse races and creating a Dirt Mile division. Talked about Game of Silks for a bit then a little hoops and DePaul basketball to end the show and the announcement that we will make an announcement about next weeks show schedule plus our special Derby preview show LIVE from Churchill Downs! 🔥🔥🔥

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the final Derby prep, the Lexington held last weekend at Keeneland, the closing of Pompano Park and how every track that we lose gets us one step closer to the abyss, the final night and how it went plus a little preview of the Apple Blossom this weekend from Oaklawn Park!

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I recap the last big Kentucky Derby prep races from Aqueduct, Keeneland and Santa Anita last weekend. We also talk about a bunch of the excellent undercard races and some of the sharp looking performances that we saw there. Once again we bring up a “road to the Breeders Cup” concept and potentially having special grade 1 races with a ⭐️ attached to get our best horses on the track against each other before November. Plus a little NBA 🏀playoff talk at the very end! Check it out! 🔥

🚨Tonight we are live at the Senditinderby Match race between Gulfstream Park Track Announcer Pete Aiello and Pompano Announcer Gabe Prewitt as they square off on the race track in a special event at the soon to be shuttered venue. In addition to our co-host Barry Spears, who gave us his thoughts on last weeks FL Derby and Arkansas Derby PLUS his favorite performance from the weekend, we have a bunch of special guests including Tampa Announcer Jason Beem, TimeformUS speed guru CJ Milkowski and his wife Elsie plus racing twitter stalwarts Tweedle D, Scanman and Eddie C among others to talk about virtually everything! We had a LOT of fun doing this show! Check it out! ⭐️

On tonight’s Big Monday Show LIVE from Pompano Park, Barry and I are joined by CJ Johnson from CJ Thoroughbreds and Silky Seth Wilkey, bloodstock extraordinare!! We talk about Barry’s coverage of the Florida Cup last Sunday from Tampa and how a track bias emerged and how to maybe take advantage of it when horses race back. CJ gave us a breeding angle to look for when perusing the entires, Drunkonaplanewins at the Pomp and we get in the winners circle, we talk about the Louisiana Derby and the impressive nature in which Epicenter won and a little about how underestimating Echo Zulu might be a mistake. Talk a little Florida Derby which is coming up strong with the recent additions from the Tampa Bay preps. Then we travel while on the air to Gabe Prewitt’s office to get the scoop on next Monday nights huge match race at Pompano between him and Peter Aiello which figures to be a great time for everyone. Then Barry and I switch gears to talk about the Dubai World Cup and speculate where we might see Life is Good next and how he may have been compromised more than we realize by the fast pace or maybe he can’t get 1 1/4.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the bill passed in KY that slashes breakage eyes to a penny (good news) while raising ADW tax on KY residents (not so good news). Of course we talk about the latest Baffert news, he was denied a stay of his 90 day Kentucky suspension by a KY judge though he has till April 4 to file a suit in civil court before he will be required to serve those days. The difficulty in getting things done is a topic that we dive into and while not it’s not the most upbeat segment, it’s a reality that we all must face if we participate in racing in any capacity. We end by talking a little NCAA hoops and the struggle with the refs. Check it out!

On tonight’s MEGA Big Monday show Barry and I discuss his big weekend over at Tampa Bay Downs doing an excellent job on the in-house handicapping show for the Tampa Bay Derby card. We breakdown the big race won by Classic Causeway and then we go through the comprehensive Derby list that was released on the Going in Circles Digest this morning which features commentary on every potential KY derby runner. We get Barrys thoughts on those runners and how speed and post positions loom as even extra important in this years Run for the Roses. We also speak to the need for a nationwide owner recruitment program that ALL facets of the industry contribute to. I talk about Bob Baffert but in a far different manner than you might be expecting. Plus a whole lot more in this MEGA edition of the Big Monday Program!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we go back to Saturday and review the Kentucky Derby Preps from Aqueduct, Santa Anita and Gulfstream Park and try to figure out if the picture is more clear or more muddled? The Fountain of Youth incident is something that we discuss which leads to more talk about rough riding and how poorly the industry as a whole has responded to aggressive riding tactics and other curious rides like in the 1st at Aqueduct on Sunday. Barry is going to be at Tampa Bay Downs on Saturday doing in-house handicapping for the TB Derby card which we discuss and we do look forward to seeing listeners and old friends over in Oldsmar. Briefly touch on the laughable CHRB investigation of the CHRB and talk about problem gambling and how it’s going to be more of an issue as opportunities to wager explode as evidenced by the Sanchez situation and now the NFL player Ridley’s issues. Check it out!🏇🏽🏇🏽🏇🏽

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we talk about last weekends big races including an upset in the Saudi Cup, a soft edition of the Rebel, Wayne Lukas is back on the Derby Trail (maybe) and why Derby and Oaks preps should be contested under equal weights. Also talk about how the entire allowance weight system is due to be overhauled as should the graded stakes schedule as well. Of course we touch on the Bob Baffert hearing in front of a KY judge on Wednesday and what it might mean. Plus a look ahead to this weekends great cards from Gulfstream and Santa Anita which include a couple of new pick 5’s. Check it out!

On tonight’s Big Monday show we discuss todays news from the KHRC with the official disqualification of Medina’s Spirit from last years Kentucky Derby and the fine and suspension of his trainer Mr Baffert. What the next step is, what might happened after that, how this all will affect this years Derby trail and why drug testing is far more complicated that you’d think is all part of tonight’s show. We also talk a little bit about the unfortunate situation at Santa Anita on Sunday afternoon and kick around Dan Ryans piece about HISA that was in the TDN today. Check it out! 🏇🏽

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the potential outcomes from the KHRC vs Baffert Stewards hearing, what we think might happen and what potential avenues that this crazy train may go down depending on the final decision. We discuss the Sam Davis and the impressive win by Classic Causeway, where he fits in the KY Derby trail list and we also touch a bit on the El Camino Real at GG where (who else?) a Baffert runner swallowed up more points with the win by Blackadder. We look back at the campaigns of Wild Again and Slew O’ Gold and marvel at the difference between their schedules and todays horses. We talk about the fantastic card this coming Saturday at the FG anchored by the first 50 point prep race, the Risen Star which has quite a few of the higher profile Derby trail runners entered. Check it out! 💵

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry talks about his TVG debut on Sunday afternoon, a tapeta discussion with that surface very much part of the pick 4 Barry gave out on the air. The we talk about the Pick 5 incident at Tampa on Sunday and how players have very little recourse when issues involving them occur. We kick around the terrible DQ on Saturday at Santa Anita and why this problem won’t ever get solved under the current set up and what SHOULD happen that almost assuredly won’t. Then we talk Messier’s destruction of a tepid group in the Bob Lewis as another Derby points race distributes very few points. Recap the other Derby preps, the Withers at Aqueduct and the Holy Bull at Gulfstream and some of the undercard performances of note! Check it out!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I start off discussing our venture out to Gulfstream Park on Saturday for the Pegasus World Cup which was a good time with some great performances (Life is Good 👍🏻, Colonel Liam 👍🏻, Regal Glory 👍🏻, Jaime Spenser 👎🏼). We got to meet a bunch of listeners and that’s always a treat! We then talk about the controversy emanating out of the NHC in Las Vegas and why it’s not a big deal but is a big deal. We kick around last weeks NYRA vs Baffert hearing, then we dig into the shocking revelations from a federal court case in NYC where the accused veterinarian was caught on a wire tap naming Sheikh Mohammed’s operation in Dubai as having a “program” that cost 2 million dollars to develop and weeks to implement. We close with a recap of the Southwest, I reveal my current future book wagers and quick preview of the Holy Bull this coming Saturday at Gulfstream. 🏇🏻💵

Barry and I go over the 12 races that make up Saturdays PEGASUS World Cup at Gulfstream Park. We go through the fields and give you our thoughts on each including horses that we like, ones we don’t like and potential sleepers that you might have missed at first glance!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show (Live from Pompano Park) we talk about todays Astra Stakes from Santa Anita which led to a discussion about too many graded stakes still being run. From there we had a conversation about short fields and how the industry has not put together any program to enhance horse ownership numbers. We spoke about our trip to Tampa Bay Downs on Saturday as the guests of Stable Duel and Bri Mott who put together a nice day at the races. Dinner with Beemie, Winners circle appearances by Sid Fernando, saw our guy Marcos Meneses who won one of the stakes Saturday and other assorted antics. Talked about the proposed match race between announcers Pete Aiello and Gabe Prewitt which has to happen soon with an April closing date fast approaching. Check out Going in Circles Gear at www.fan-tack.com! 🏇🏽

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the latest Bob Baffert vs the racing world potential lawsuit after a report in the New York Times that litigation against the Churchill Downs ban is imminent. It’s a story that isn’t going to go away anytime soon and may overshadow the actual Kentucky Derby preps themselves. Listen in to hear what we have to say on this latest development. We also give out selections for our Eclipse award ballots (we don’t actually have them) and are in agreement on most but we do go different ways on a couple categories. Talk a little about DQ’s and some hoop dreams as well. Don’t forget we will be out at Tampa Bay Downs on Saturday, if you are at the track on Saturday be sure to say hello!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we talk about the early season KY Derby preps from FG, OP, Aqu, GP and SA and how much of a factor any of the horses exiting these races might be. We also discuss jockeys celebrating or touching hands after the races in lieu of the incident at Laurel a few days back and both have pretty strong feelings about that. Takeout at Slots tracks with huge purses is a pet peeve and we offer some free advice to those who should be lowering their take. Touch on the Baffert situation which feels like it’s going to be a weekly occurrence for the near future 🙄. Also talk about my appearance on Steve Byk’s show on Tuesday (www.Steve Byk.com) and announce that we will both be at Tampa Bay Downs on Saturday the 15th if you want to throw stuff at us! Short show tonight to kick off the New Year!

On tonight’s Big Monday Barry and I feel obligated to talk about the worlds newest wonder horse Flightline and his huge blowout win in Sundays Malibu. We also discuss some items that bother both of us including distinct lack of effort on reducing takeout to optimum levels, inaccurate information being disseminated knowingly and nothing being done about it, backside integrity and how it could be done so more effectively and without needing an elaborate and wildly expensive federal law and the strange phenomenon of athletes in every sport testing positive for Covid except racing. Also some late in the show Lakers shade is thrown! Last show of the year! Happy new year to all our listeners 🗓🎊🎉🎊🎉

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we lament the current state of the industry, talk about how Gulfstream’s turf is the latest place that races seemingly can’t be timed properly, why accurate times and fractions matter (a lot!); sing the praises of Gabe Prewitt and the job he has done at Pompano (and the sadness surrounding the fact that it doesn’t matter as the parent company is still going to close up shop); discuss the fallout from the Navarro case including the likelihood of suits being filed in civil courts against the owners of his horses and finally we are looking for nominations for the first annual Going in Circles award! Further info forthcoming on social media outlets on how you can participate. Verizon sucks and we apologize in advance for any audio issues. 🏇🏽

Tonight we talk about the latest tone deaf move by a major industry player and what it is that doesn’t seem to resonate within racing circles. We also touch on why people with 30-40-50+ racing violations are still being licensed by states when qualifying for a professional license should have a far higher standard. Another quick topic is the No Empty Stockings 🎅🏽 program now in its 4th year of supplying the children of Palm Meadows with Christmas gifts 🎁 so that they have a nice holiday. (Thanks again for all that donated! It’s very much appreciated!). We also touch on Sid Fernando’s epic writing binge, why live racing matters and the Special Going in Circles year end awards next week (not going to be boring) and other assorted stuff!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the tragic death of Medina Spirit, how California racing could be in its final stages, why racing is a disaster area, how Bob Baffert made himself toxic, why much is now out of the hands of racing and the difficulty we are having in defending the sport/business/industry that we love. It’s not pretty but it’s 100% how we feel which is more than you will get from most. 😐

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I talk about Maxfield going out a winner in the Clark last weekend as well as recap the other stakes action at Churchill, Del Mar and Aqueduct. We also look forward to this seasons three year olds turning four and how 2022 should be a strong year for the older horse stakes with a really solid crew returning. We also discuss the inane HISA regulation about claiming race purses being restricted and how that is a massive overreach and shouldn’t be included (It has disappeared from the website so perhaps they have seen the light in this regard). Also talk about the Arkansas Derby moving back two weeks from its traditional spot three weeks prior to the Derby to five weeks before.

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the first round Kentucky Derby Futures which were announced Monday with one very controversial trainers horses not included among the 22 individual listed. That theme continues as we discuss how the Baffert Derby situation will loom over the business the next six months for better or worse. Tracks and other racing organizations hiring wagering experts is something that we also advocate for after reading a good piece by Dean Towers on that subject.

Introducing Going in Circles Media where we provide horseracing content in the audio/video and written form. We cover all aspects of the sport and business from the backside to the betting windows! Subscribe for free to our podcast on any of the major podcast platforms and also check out the Going in Circles Digest our newsletter than also offers a free subscription service that sends directly to your email box. Check us out!

Going in Circles 2021 BREEDERS CUP Preview looks at all 14 of the Breeders Cup races over both days. Barry and Jeff offer unique takes on all the races, hopefully pointing out some angles that you may have overlooked. We also get some strong opinions on several races both pro and con with a lot of fading of favorites in the no chalk zone 🚫. Hope you enjoy! 💵💵💵

On tonight’s show we talk about the tragic passing of jockey Miguel Mena, discuss todays Breeders Cup post position draw and how that may effect the races this weekend and point out the late post times for the Breeders Cup races which sort of turns them into a nighttime event for the East coast. We also take on the takeout in California (too high) especially with having one bet with two different takeout levels and the greatness of Wilt Chamberlain. PROGRAMING NOTE: We will be taping a Breeders Cup Preview show early Wednesday evening covering both days races with a couple of excellent special guest handicappers! Be sure to check it out!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Pre-pre Breeders Cup Big Monday show we talk about (what else?) the Breeders Cup. On that topic we delve into how racing can better structure the graded stakes schedule so that it more effectively leads into the championship event and avoid situations like this years sparse Filly Sprint field. We also mourn the passing of some longtime racing media icons and the abrupt banning of the Twitter account of the ubiquitous Swift Hitter. We also announce our Breeders Cup coverage schedule for next week! 🏇🏽🏇🏽🏇🏽

On tonight’s Big Monday show we talk about why racing can’t seem to rid itself of issues that seem like low hanging fruit with the latest case in Delaware where bad actors got ludicrously light penalties. We also discuss the Breeders Cup’s curious path to allow Bob Baffert to compete in the championship events and how it might have been done a lot more effectively. Tales of horse sales and fantasy basketball 🏀 (I know lol) cap a relatively short edition of the Big Monday Show

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap the final round of Breeders Cup preps from Keeneland and Belmont and talk about how the fields are shaping up for the big event. We also delve into the difference between legal medications and illegal drugs and why there is so much confusion between them and how one is far, far worse than the other.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap the huge weekend of Breeders Cup prep action from Belmont, Churchill and Santa Anita including three of the main Classic preps. We also reveal our Top 9 list for the Classic at this time and finish up with talk about integrity and how the racetracks themselves are finally stepping up with Gulfstream Park being the latest with its out of competition Clenbuterol testing results being announced Friday and five trainers being suspended.

On this weeks Big Monday show we talk about last weekends stakes at Parx including Hot Rod Charlie’s Pennsylvania Derby, Jackies Warriors cakewalk, the Silver State controversy, Chub Wagon not getting the inquiry sign at least hung after her race and some Life is Good talk. Also Monmouths handle numbers are in and yes clearly they lost handle from operating whipless and some reminiscing about top sprinters and the 1985 Breeders Cup Turf.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the Charlie Appleby takeover of North American grade 1 turf races, whether Charlie should accept a sponsorship from the Applebee’s restaurant chain, we review some of the ludicrous Breeders Cup futures odds which are in some cases bizarre. We also talk about the timing issues that are plaguing Belmont and one of the potential reasons why this is happening (you’ll be surprised), why we don’t think Bob Baffert should be excluded from this years BC, and a variety of other takes on this weeks Big Monday show! 🏆💵🏇🏻

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I talk about some topics on our mind including some ideas about tying the Breeders Cup to the “regular season” through a series of races leading up to the big days. We also talk about a variety of other topics including a story of a loose cow running around a training track at 3am. 🏇🏻

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap the recently concluded Saratoga meet including this past weekends stakes which could also be named the Gun Runner showcase.

On tonight’s Big Monday Show Barry and I recap the big races from Saturday’s entertaining yet chalky card from Saratoga. We talked about Essential Quality’s Travers win and where he might go next and will he race next year. Also the great Jackie’s Warrior versus Life is Good throw down, Mike Smith’s ride and what path does LIG take to the BC? Letruska gets her props and we do a what if Monomoy Girl has been in the Personal Ensign field? The savage Forgeo, the Ryan Moore box, the fast paced Ballston Spa, Gamine and her aluminum pad, shipping woes, why tracks need to start helping to recruit new owners and many other topics are covered on this weeks show!

On a special edition of the Big Monday Show (Big Friday) Barry and I spend the first part of the show lamenting the latest in stewards controversy from Saratoga. Then we go over the allowance races and stakes action on the nice Travers Day card. Check it out! 🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap the last relevant weekend of racing at Arlington Park, talking not just about the races but why it’s such a big blow for racing to lose one it’s very nicest facilities. Barry speaks about how the pace dynamics played different factors in a few of the graded stakes this weekend, we continue to point out how many of the graded stakes winners are purchased for less than six figures and in some cases as low as $4000 (the winner of the last Arlington sort-of Million) and ask why no one in this industry is promoting that? We also talk about how racing has failed to come up with a permanent funding source for the PDJF and how that is something that needs to change ASAP. Check it out! 🏇🏻

On tonight’s Big Monday Show we recap the weekends stakes including the Whitney, Test and other graded stakes action across the country. We also discuss inane stewards decisions which are now a common issue unfortunately. On the second half of the show we bring up next weekends relatively light stakes schedule at Saratoga and Del Mar and talk a little about the sports betting landscape now taking form in the huge wagering states of Florida and New York.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap last weekend’s big races including the Jim Dandy, Vanderbilt, Bowling Green, Bing Crosby and Clement Hirsch. Other topics include how people perceptions of rides often miss the mark both good and bad, preview the upcoming weekends races including stellar editions of the Whitney, Test, Troy and Saratoga Derby, talk about health and our friend Mike Recio as he continues his fight and how important it is to support groups like the PDJF.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we start out asking for prayers 🙏🏻 for our friend, horseman Mike Recio who is seriously ill. We then recap last weekend’s stakes action starting with Maracuja’s upset of Malathaat in the CCA Oaks at Saratoga. Also talk about Royal Flag’s impressive Shuvee score and where she ranks in the older dirt filly hierarchy. We touched on Caravel’s big win in the Caress, where she goes from here and the odd and confusing circumstance that led to Jakarta running for purse money only. Also discussed United’s Eddie Read and his chances in this years Del Mar Breeders Cup against the so far this years dominant European invaders. The second segment started out with Baffert/Vitality/ NYRA due process procedures as the topic and morphed into a discussion on lasix, horses going on and off and how to possibly make bleeder info accessible. We looked ahead to this weekends big races, The Curlin, Jim Dandy, Honorable Miss, Bowling Green, Vanderbilt and Sunday’s rematch of Jackie’s Warrior and Drain the Clock in the Amsterdam. A few minutes of hoops talk to wrap up tonight’s show.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we tackle the Haskell, explain why the DQ was the easy call, touch on why the whip rule was immaterial though is still a terrible rule. We talk about why people should be skeptical of information that is giving from various industry sources, especially if it seems dubious. I warn every jockey in America about something that will ruin their career if they aren’t smart about it. We wonder if every big turf race in the US is gonna be won by Euros soon, Barry talks about some handicapping approaches, I talk about my weird ability to cash more tickets on races called by Jason Beem and a bunch of other stuff too! Oh yeah some Baffert stuff too, everyone likes Baffert stuff!

On the second half of today’s Going in Circles we talk to Dean Towers aka racing Twitter hall of famer (1st ballot when we get around to having a racing Twitter HoF) @pullthepocket about the trouble with eliminations in harness racing and just about every other issue that we could fit in today! Was a great conversation that encompasses both breeds (sorry no QH’s). Hopefully people can undertake that all racing has a lot of the same issues and collaborating can only benefit all.

On tonight’s Big Monday Show we recap recent racing news including the death of star stallion Galileo and top owner and breeder Bert Firestone and Bob Baffert’s latest court appearance. We make our unhappiness known regarding the Monmouth Stewards seemingly being unprepared to handle a whipping incident even though it’s been the main topic of conversation in NJ racing for quite some time. In our second segment we take a look back at last weekends sparse stakes action including the Belmont Derby and Oaks, Victory Ride and the Delaware Handicap. We finish the show in segment three with a quick look ahead to Saratoga’s opening day card with two grade 3 stakes (The Quick Call and Schuylerville) and the Forbidden Apple on Friday.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by 2x Eclipse winning writer and author John Scheinman to talk about his first novella Bal Harbour Blues. The book is a horse racing story set in 1991 south Florida complete with colorful figures, wiseguys and all the typical characters that you used to find at the track. John is a throwback himself and I have gotten a chance to read the first part and you won’t want to miss it!

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show Barry and I talk about Masquerade’s Ohio Derby win, the plethora of three year old dirt stakes this time of the year in advance of Friday’s Iowa Derby and Mondays Dwyer. We also touch on Letruska and her performance on Saturday, Maxfields big win and look forward to the big Summer meets at Saratoga and Del Mar. Fixed odds wagering is another topic we spent a few minutes on previewing a special podcast with the great O_Crunk on that topic as well as handle trends this coming week. 🏇🏻

On part 2 of tonight’s Big Monday show we conclude our discussion of covering racing from a different angle and break down the NBA’s Final 4 teams with Barry and I having different predictions for the Finals

On part 1 of tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I discuss last weeks big stories, the Royal Ascot meet, bids are in at Arlington Park and it’s not promising for racing, we discuss California racing and what might be done to help and discuss covering racing in a little bit of a different manner

On tonight’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk about the upcoming Royal Ascot meet and go over a few races on the opening day card, get Barry’s impressions of the whip less stakes at Monmouth this past weekend and how the rule may have affected the results, discuss the folly of engaging radical groups that have nothing but bad intentions, go over the Baffert lawsuit vs NYRA and why it might have a chance, detail how institutional regulation will never seem to be strong enough and rail on how ludicrous it seems to have favorites winning at some tracks above 45%

We are joined by Pleasant Acres Farms Helen Barbazon to talk about the recent success of their freshman sire Neolithic and others like Ride on Curlin. Neolithic who already has a winner saw some success at the recently concluded OBS JUNE sale with 2yo’s selling for 70k and 45k. Ride on Curlin’s also sold well and the farm has some several exciting young stallions. *we apologize for the technical delays in posting this pod

On the second half of today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by trainer Ron Moquett to discuss plans for his stable star Whitmore and talk about Oaklawn Park’s decision to extend their meet with it now starting in early December.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we recap the Belmont Day stakes racing including the big race itself. Also talk about Barry being suspended by Twitter (🙄), industry people sensitivity, joined by the one and only @Swifthitter to talk about his Belmont Day experience, his bet on Nikola Jokic and he and Barry talk some wagering strategy/handicapping. We also announce that we have a YouTube channel where we will be taping Going in Circles WAGERING WISDOM insights from Barry Spears which will be short series of videos where Barry talks about different facets of handicapping and wagering strategy. Check it out!

We talked to Pete Denk of THT Bloodstock about a variety of topics including the Belmont Stakes.

On the 2nd part of today’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk to CJ Johnsen about CJ Thoroughbreds and his racing career on the frontside at Kentucky Downs. Topics include hearing the back story about the international winner that CJTB had yesterday in England, philosophy on building the stable, upcoming runners and we give him some free advice on where to run some of his recent winners (Saratoga!). CJ also touches on some other industry issues including the future of Texas racing from his unique vantage point and on Degennation and what they are doing by promoting racing in a little different manner.

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I discuss the current controversial racing topic, the Monmouth Park whip regulations. We touch on how this rule came to pass, issues that we see, the view of the bettors who have been very vocal in their support of the jockeys who have spoke out against it. We also talk about wagering theory, crazy fans, question why anyone wants a synthetic track, we delve briefly into hair for a bit and other assorted topics as well.

On the second part of today’s show we are joined by my longtime friend and one of the greatest degenerate gamblers in modern racing history, Jim Terry aka Slim. Lots of perspective (he only might have gotten me potentially sued for slander once) and great stories of the good old days when you really had to work to gamble on races!

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE a really good conversation with trainer Chad Summers on the raging whip fight at Monmouth, what’s happening at Belmont and more on covering racing and how to make it better.

On tonight’s edition of the Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the latest news in racing including the CHRB’s unusual statement on Mr Baffert, the upcoming meet at Monmouth sans whips, the inability of racing to see their customers as smart people and how racing coverage can be made better, CDI is Darth Vader 5.0 and congrats to Jason Beem on the Tampa Bay Downs job.

On part 2 of today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by prominent owner Dean Reeves of Mucho Macho Man fame to talk about his views on the game from an owners point of view. An interesting discussion.

On the first part of Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by @swifthitter who is currently involved with a class action suit against Bob Baffert among others looking to recover money from bets they had on the KY Derby runner up.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday Show Barry and I discuss the massive amount of racing related news breaking today especially concerning Linda Rice getting her license revoked for three years and soon after the Bob Baffert being denied the right to stable or race at NYRA story broke. These are extremely important stories to racing and it’s future and we talk about them from all angles. We also touch on the far more minor Ron McAnally/Richard Mandela positives in California, the winning streak at Grants Pass continues and the Knicks are in the Playoffs. Oh yeah we talked a little about that race at Pimlico last Saturday and who we may see in the Belmont too.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we discuss the breaking news that Medina Spirit will be allowed to compete in the Preakness, what people are getting wrong about the situation and how the fallout will affect racing for years to come. We are joined by The Racing Biz’s Frank Vespe who is at Pimlico covering today’s post position draw.

On tonight’s BIG MONDAY show we talked about....what else...the Kentucky Derby fiasco and how it’s gonna probably get worse if you can imagine that 🤦🏼‍♂️

🤷🏼‍♂️ everyone happy now?

On this special edition of Going in Circles we are joined by Daniel Wallach of Wallach Legal (@WALLACHLEGAL) to talk about the proposed gaming compact between the State of Florida and the Seminole Tribe and the potential fallout from its ratification by the Florida Legislature during the Special Session May 17-21. Sports betting is the big ticket item for this compact but there are also a number of other issues that might prove to be extremely negative for the horse racing industry in Florida. It’s a complex but vitally important issue that Daniel does a good job walking us through.

We sit down with THT Bloodstock’s Pete Denk to review the Kentucky Derby and see where their annual report on the Derby field was in regards to the actual results of the race. We also talk about the Preakness and what might play out at Pimlico next weekend and discuss some areas of racing that we would like to see addressed. Even a little Chicago Bears 🐻 plug for the long suffering fans including Pete!

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we speak to the President of the FHBPA Steve Screnci about the potential fallout for horseracing from the Florida legislature’s special session on gaming to be held May 17 in Tallahassee. The gaming compact between the Seminole Tribe and State of Florida is the primary focus though separate bills to establish a gaming commission and another to officially decouple racetracks casino revenue from horsemen are on the agenda. Steve runs us through how we got to this point and what steps might be necessary in order to keep the racing game growing as well as updates negotiations with CDI on various other issues.

On tonight’s BIG MONDAY show we recap the Kentucky Derby weekend, talking about the big race, the Oaks, the undercard stakes, what the Preakness might look like, dumb conspiracy theories, truthful conspiracy theories, streaming and the future of racing telecasts and an ode to Pompano Park where the template for wagering growth success was set....are any other tracks paying attention? Also brought up the TIP series on wagering security or lack thereof and are the pools secure?

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by the best racing analyst in the business, the reclusive Doug Salvatore, to go over the field for Saturday’s Kentucky Derby. Going horse by horse Doug’s in-depth analysis is as thorough as you will find and you will want to hear what he says about many of the favorites. As a bonus he gives out a couple of NFL Draft selections 🏈 (yes they have betting on the NFL draft!)

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the Kentucky Oaks, the undercard and it’s softness, post Derby attrition, is Fiya ready for the big time, NYC OTB stories, Beemie awards “rooting” video, more on why racing needs to shift the way it promotes wagers, announce Doug Salvatore will be on tomorrow’s GIC LIVE show (he is banned from FB....again) and thing that Pete Rinato is doing, sponsoring tickets for random players, promoting the game out of love for it!

On the second part of today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by Bobby Neuman, HRRN Race Day show co-host and new track announcer at Praire Meadows to talk about that new position, announcer booth issues and a little bit about the looming Kentucky Derby

On part one of today’s Going in Circles LIVE we speak with Gabe Prewitt, Director of Racing for Caesar’s Entertainment, best known for his work at Pompano Park, the Red Mile and as leader of the #senditin army about the dramatic rise of Pompano Park’s handle, the methods that were used and how they can benefit any racetrack regardless of breed. We also talked about Gabe’s entry into racing, how he has held a plethora of different jobs including track announcer and the way he has used his experience as a gambler/handicapper to his benefit as a racing executive. Of course the story of Command the Fire, the horse that wouldn’t leave.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show presented by BRL Equine and Pleasant Acres Farm we are joined by Jason Beides agent for jockey Jose Lezcano subbing for an under the weather Barry. Jason and I discuss the Apple Blossom and the strategy employed by the various jockeys, the ever changing Derby field and the thought that the Preakness might be a better field, the early opening of Belmont and what that means for NYRA players and a little bit of Yonkers mixed in as well.

On part 2 of today’s show we speak with Harlan Malter of IronHorse Racing about his beginnings in racing, talk about starting up a racing partnership and finish up on Bucchero who Ironhorse successfully campaigned and who is now standing stud at Pleasant Acres Farm in Florida with his first yearlings selling this summer. A fun conversation!

On part one of today’s Going in Circles LIVE we speak with Kenny McPeek about the big showdown this Saturday at Oaklawn between Swiss Skydiver and Monomoy Girl. We touch on a few racing industry topics and Kenny also talks about his frustration in dealing with various racing organizations when trying to get access for his racing app Horseraces Now.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we recap the Derby trail and talk about how the point system needs to be tweaked and not make the last round of preps seem like a powerball ticket. Talk about how different horses are being prepared, how you can’t prevent injuries or early development and how it doesn’t bode well for their long term outlook trying to manipulate either. Speak about the great video link that the Going in Circles Digest had today or the 1978 Kentucky Derby featuring Affirmed.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by Aaron Vercruysse of Post Time radio to talk the Kentucky Derby picture and he brings a few very unique angles to light. We also had Sal Sinatra from the Maryland Jockey Club to talk about their ongoing equine herpes issues, the new meet opening on Thursday at Laurel, how the Pimlico project is progressing and Sal’s ideas about using a ratings system to classify horses instead of traditional claiming/allowance races.

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I recap last weekend’s Kentucky Derby preps, discuss at length the bleeding/lasix issue and why it’s pointless now, try to figure out who is riding who in the Derby and a bunch of other assorted topics including the big A Stabile and Kate Upton at a spring training game and much more

On tonight’s delayed Big Monday show we talk about a wide variety of topics including why the Big Monday remote from Pompano didn’t happen, recap the weekends big events in Dubai and Gulfstream especially the Florida Derby and it’s implications on this years Derby, took at look at the Bluegrass and Wood Memorial, discussed where the main Derby contenders are at speed figure wise, spoke about the ongoing social media battle about handicapping versus ticket structure and what changes need to be made in the sport based on the series in The Racing Biz that asks the question to a variety of people in and out of the sport.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by the Thoroughbred Ideas Foundation’s Pat Cummings to preview his upcoming multi-piece white paper on the important issue of wagering security and other issues of integrity. We also talk about the issues of the day including his school Baylor’s run to the Final 4. I also take shots at the Derby Point system (again)

On this special edition of Going in Circles -Presented by BRL Equine and Pleasant Acres Farm- Special guest handicapper Jason Beides and Big Monday co-host Barry Spears carve up the marathon Florida Derby Card. The guys have some interesting insights and opinions on all the races (except the baffling race 2) and hopefully can point you in the right direction on Saturday!

On the second part of today’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk to racing twitters Saratogadan @skipaway42 about his entry into racing, thoughts about the game in general/NY and his daily basketball coaching videos featuring his son.

Today’s Going in Circles LIVE is a two part show. The first part features the introduction of DEGEN Nation which is a new group created by members of racing Twitter that is designed to bring younger players together with a series of group tickets, contests, giveaways, parties and perhaps even a discount racing partnership. When racing talks about the younger generation and attracting “action” guys who love to gamble, these are who you should be looking for.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we talk about the lunacy of how the whip regulations are being implemented in California, discuss trainer/owner relationships especially in terms of payment re:Ken Ramsey vs Mike Maker and Wesley Ward news, review the Louisiana Derby, talk a little about the FL Derby and the remaining KY Derby preps and March Madness as it winds up the opening weekend with upsets galore. Special guest appearance from the unofficial mayor of Saratoga, Dave Speers.

On tonight’s Big Monday Show we recap the stakes action at Oaklawn Park including Concert Tour’s authoritative score in the Rebel, talk about the contrived controversy in the aftermath of the Essex, Swiss Skydivers successful return to the races, a look ahead to the upcoming weeks Derby preps including this Saturday’s Louisiana Derby, talk a little March Madness and a whole lot more!

On this weeks Going in Circles we are joined by Evan Friedman of Stable Battles, trainer Jeff Engler on his relocating to south Florida and his stable star Willy Boi and Tammy Gantt and Crystal Fernung to talk about auctioning off the art piece Clockwork Fury at next weeks OBS sale with a significant portion of the proceeds to go to the TRF’s Second Chances program at Lowell Correctional facility.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we recapped the weekends three Triple Crown preps, commenting on the Gotham, Tampa Bay Derby and San Felipe. We also talked about the Big Cap, who was betting on Storm the Court 🤯, the KY Derby future book, the lack of attention that March Madness has gotten and a quick preview of the rest of the Derby trail races prior to the May 1st running.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by writer, author and bloodstock agent Sean Clancy to talk about the Gordon Elliot incident and a whole host of other racing topics. Sean, who was also a former steeplechase jockey, discussed that sport, his top horses and jockeys, jump racing’s place in Saratoga culture, a look back at 20 years of his paper the Saratoga Special and our mutual respect and admiration for Allen Jerkens. Hope that you enjoy!

On tonight’s Big Monday show we talk about the horrible image of a Irish Jump trainer and a dead horse that’s become a scandal, discuss the post race skirmish between Irad Ortiz and a Paco Lopez after the 4th race last Friday at Gulfstream, analyze the key races from last weekend including Monomoy Girls easy score in the Bayakoa, Derby prep action with big favorites Essential Quality and Greatest Honour scoring in the Southwest and Fountain of Youth respectively. We also talk about next weeks preps, how the point system for the Derby needs to be tweaked (yes we talked about it again) and stories of spring training games and the great Edison Azalte almost got us throw out of Ft Lauderdale stadium back in the day.

On today’s show we spoke to Phil Antonacci and Jimmy Takter who have launched a stable training thoroughbreds after having been hugely successful in the harness racing business. Takter would best be described as the Bob Baffert of harness and Antonucci’s family has bred a record 5 Hambletonian winners as well as been involved with owning champions like Moni Maker and The Red Mile racetrack. On the second half of the show we were joined by Troy Levy of Circle 8 ranch who also started in harness racing and now is fully immersed in the thoroughbred business operating a farm/training center in central Kentucky. We discuss today’s controversial lawsuit filed by three prominent farms again the Jockey Club over their proposed stallion restrictions.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we recap the international races that were held Saturday, talk about this weeks Derby preps including the twice postponed Southwest and the Fountain of Youth at GP. We also discuss our usual wide range of topics including weak champions, purses versus handle, industry trends, how the horsemen are fighting an uphill battle, Barry laments California’s whip regulations and talks about the new, The Racing Biz’s special shows on diversity in racing

On this special edition of the Going in Circles Podcast we are joined by Chris Rossi who has unofficially been keeping track of racing data especially in regards to handle numbers for years. Better known on Twitter as @o_crunk Chris tells us about trends in handle and what that that data is telling us including a lot that doesn’t jive with some of the popular racing themes. He also talks about how examining the pre-COVID numbers versus the beginning stages of the pandemic to where we are right now has shown a few areas that might not be what we thought they were. He also uses his data to discuss the computer/batch players and why he thinks that their total handle and effect on the pools isn’t nearly as dramatic as we are led to believe. If you are a bettor, trainer or owner there is a lot of stuff discussed that you might be interested in.

Joined by Kim Weir of the TRF to talk about the new Second Chances Juvenile Program and next Tuesday’s livestream event.

On today’s show we first speak with Trainer Ron Moquett about the weather issues plaguing Oaklawn and get a report on his Breeders Cup winner and champion sprinter, Whitmore. @Swifthitter of racing Twitter fame joins us in the second hour to talk about the bettors POV on a bunch of industry topics including proper jockey complaining techniques and what we can do as an industry to make wagering on horses more attractive to the younger generation that’s interested in gambling. We finish up the show with Kim Weir of the TRF talking about their new program in Ocala and the livestream event they are having to introduce that new program next Tuesday morning.

On today’s Big Monday Show we discuss the impact that weather is having on racing in the Midwest, especially with Oaklawn Park announcing another weekend missed due to unusually strong winter storms. With the Southwest being pushed back again, we talked about potential solutions for OP regarding the timing of the Rebel and Arkansas Derby and how tight the schedules are for horses originally pointing for the Southwest. We also talked about horses stretching out in distance and why a horse fading in sprints can be dangerous in a route race. Also got Barry’s thoughts on last Saturday’s Risen Star and El Camino Real stakes and potential Derby horses exiting those two preps. No picks were given! (For those who monitor such things)

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by the MTHA’s Tom LaMarra who is a man who has worn many hats in his career in racing. We discuss his role in assisting the horseman of the mid-Atlantic, being in charge of the MATCH series of racing and the dangers that lurk in the hearts of evil politicians in that region. We also talk about growing up in NJ when it had a full time racing circuit , our memories of Garden State and Atlantic City was a fun part of the show. Tom also talks about how he got started in racing and his journey to where he is today.

On this weeks BIG MONDAY show Barry and I discuss last weekends Derby preps from Tampa, Aqueduct and Santa Anita (unofficial prep). Barry talks about his visit to Tampa Bay Downs on Saturday for the Sam Davis card with the Stable Duel people, Mr Grunder and his adventurous calls get some love, the last race DQ is knocked around as is the undercard stakes. Our thoughts on the Withers, weighing horses, asking why the upcoming Southwest is only a 10 point Derby prep (ludicrous) and some other thoughts on tweaking the point system to make it better. Other topics were emerging 4 year olds that may turn out to be solid horses if not this seasons stars like Hit the Road and mask police commentary as well. It’s long but we try to keep it interesting

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk to software designer Ryan Clements about the racing games and smart phone apps that his team has created. His latest app TOP JOCKEY was just released recently and you actually “ride” the horses in races at various tracks, at different distances and surfaces. We also spoke about his difficulties as a programmer trying to access racing data which of course is the chief issue that inhibits innovation in the sport

On tonight’s Big Monday show we talk about last Saturday’s Pegasus card chiefly Prevalence and Knicks Go, how a viral video from Pegasus day was born, where racing and the BC goes with the news that NBCSN is getting its plug pulled, why Swiss Skydiver wasn’t snubbed and about a poll on Twitter about betting habits and how they are changing.

On tonight’s program Barry and I analyze the Pegasus card stakes, the Pegasus Dirt and Turf as well as the undercard stakes. This years races are lacking in ⭐️ power but are very competitive races and offer a lot of interesting wagering opportunities.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by Helen Barbazon of Pleasant Acres Farm/stallions to talk about the breeding and sales business, the farm and stallions like Gunnevera, including some breaking news about a recently retired horse that will be standing at Pleasant Acres. We also talk about how to improve Florida racing and breeding and her optimism for the future

On this weeks Going in Circles LIVE presented by BRL Equine we open by paying tribute to Juddmonte Farm owner Khalid Abdullah on the event of his passing. Our first guest is the Executive Director of the New York Thoroughbred Breeders Najja Thompson. We talk to Najja about his recent move from NYRA to the NYTB, on his beginnings in racing, what his role is at NYTB and touch on several aspects of the breeding/sales industry along the way.

On the 2nd part of GIC LIVE presented by BRL Equine we talk with Steve Screnci who is the President of the FHBPA which is the group that represents the horsemen of South Florida. Steve shares his beginnings in racing and how he got involved with the FHBPA, eventually being elected President of the organization. We talk about the role of the Horsemans group, what duties and responsibilities that they cover and how the business of racing has gotten very complicated over the last decade. Steve also gives some updates on the status of various issues pertaining to south Florida racing and shares his vision of what he hopes to accomplish in the coming months.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap the light stakes schedule from last weekend, talk about the lack of diversity in racing playing a part in the lack of new ideas and making racing attractive for different demographics and come up some thoughts on expanding the Pegasus brand to a wider slate of races on the big day.

On the years first Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by Pat Cummings of the Thoroughbred Ideas Foundation to break down the newly passed Federal HISA law, how it’s going to be paid for and what are the weaknesses and strengths of the new law. It’s more interesting than it sounds! On the second half of the show we are joined by Joe Villante of BRL Equine to discuss the outlook for the game from a “racing guy” from Philly and might actually uncover a potential new app for racing fans to use!

On tonight’s Big Monday show Barry and I talk about the first KY Derby preps of 2021 at SA, AQU and GP. We also go over the Pegasus Dirt and Turf invitees, blast the LA Times for the latest cheap shot editorial, talk about the usual (🙄) topics of lasix and whips, discuss the how the new turf chute at SA is playing and reveal that I may wear a horse head mask to the Pegasus 🐴😂😂

Today’s show is the finale episode from our first season as we wrap up 2020. Rob Whitlock (aka Garlic Rob) joins us to tell stories from his interesting racetrack life, starting when he was working in the film business to how he wound up as a groom for Allen Jerkens to his Saratoga season rental business and how to keep mosquitos away using garlic and finishing up as a jockey agent for P Val. Check it out and thank you to everyone for listening to our podcast!!

On the final segment of the Going in Circles NBA preview Barry Spears joins us to give us his hot takes on the upcoming season, where he sees teams like the Clippers and Nets ending up and his picks for the Finals and individual awards.

On this episode of the Going in Circles NBA season Preview we talk to Jason Beides about his view on the season, who he is bullish on, teams and players to watch and good value plays in the future wagers.

On our first NBA season preview the Going in Circles NBA power rankings are revealed with no big surprises at the top but some interesting mini-team previews. The second and third episodes will feature discussions about interesting topics, players and teams with predictions and hot takes galore!

On today’s Going In Circles LIVE we talk to Don Chatlos who is racing manager for OXO stable on his unique career path in racing and his takes on the sport. On the second half of the show we are joined by Jose Santos, Jr who is already a successful jockey agent in the Midwest and he isn’t even close to turning 30 yet.

On tonight’s Big Monday show we recap last weekends stakes from Gulfstream Park, ask why there is no turf lane designation in the pp’s, talk about Garret Gomez and substance abuse/mental health issues on the 4th anniversary of his passing, touch on the difficulty of changing racing rules via state legislatures and I do a pretty awful Andy Beyer impersonation.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by top racing photographer Skip Dickstein to talk about his career in pictures. On the second half of the show we speak to racing twitter influencer and occasional wild gambler @swifthitter about how he got into racing and ideas that he has for racing from a gambler/fan point of view

On tonight’s show we talk about a plethora of items ranging from the annoying timing issues that are still occurring at some tracks to the COVID blues and how racing seems more prepared for a second wave. Also touched on the age old issue of trying to figure out why horses are less hardy than they were in the past and several other pleas for racing to fix itself now not later

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by jockey agent Jason Beides to preview the weekends graded stakes from Aqueduct including the Cigar Mile. We also cover the Demoiselle, Go for Wand and the 10 point Derby prep race, the mile and an eighth Remson.

On tonight’s episode we talk about the events of the past week in racing, from the stakes winners to the closing of Calder. We also talk about the upcoming GP championship meet, who might be running in the Pegasus and compare the Detroit Lions to Tacitus

On tonight’s Big Monday show we talk about the great stallion Northern Dancer and his influence on the breed on the 30th anniversary of his passing, why some second tier stallion prospects should race an extra year, Suffolk and Rockingham shippers to Saratoga and how COVID might affect the winter racing season.

On today’s show we recap last weekends Breeders Cup Championship races and are also joined by Eric Hammelback of the NHBPA to discuss some of the biggest issues facing racing and why a lot of what we are told about those problems isn’t exactly what it seems.

On tonight’s show we recap last weekends Breeders Cup races, discus the results, what went right and what went wrong. We also touch on horses going to stud and the business of breeding versus racing and what next year might look like based on horses coming out of these races.

On today’s show we welcome a pair of hall of famers who teamed up to win the 1985 Breeders Cup Classic with Proud Truth, trainer John Veitch and jockey Jorge Velasquez. John reminisces about his training years and tells stories about great horses he trained like Alydar, Our Mims, Sunshine Forever, Davona Dale, Brian’s Time and Before Dawn. Jorge speaks about how he made it to ride in the US, coming from Panama as a teenager and landing at Atlantic City Racecourse. We also talk about some of the champions he rode like Spectacular Bid, Alydar, Fort Marcy, Shuvee, Chris Everett, Desert Vixen, Lady’s Secret and Pleasant Colony.

Going in Circles is joined by Jason Beides and Barry Spears to preview the Breeders Crown at Harrahs Hoosier Friday and Saturday nights

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk to trainer Luis Carvajal of Imperial Hint fame about life at his barn without his stable star. We also speak with trainer Carlos Martin about his Breeders Cup filly sprint contender Come Dancing and how his NY based stable is shaping up. Also additional commentary on the latest medication transgression by the Baffert barn in light of the news of today’s newest violation.

Going in Circles talks TRF Blackburn’s virtual horse show with Kim Weir

On tonight’s show we discuss the latest Baffert positive, how racing can get free advice, the 1985 Aqueduct Breeders Cup, and look ahead to this years edition

On today's program we talk to author Peter Lee about the subject of his excellent book Spectacular Bid : The last Superhorse of the 20th century. We examine his hall of Fame career from the modest beginnings to his controversial Belmont to his amazing 4 yo season to his failure as a stallion.

On today's Going in Circles LIVE we are joined by author Peter Lee to talk about the great Spectacular Bid. Peter wrote a fantastic book called Spectacular Bid: The Last Superhorse of the 20th century and we discuss his career, the ups and downs, his amazing four year old season and his failure to produce as a stallion.

On tonight’s show we talk about how the new whip regulations in California are making things worse, discussed the ‘good old days’ of racing coverage on television, previewed Tuesday’s LIVE show which will be featuring the great Spectacular Bid. We also did a quick review of last weekends few Stakes of note and started to set the table for the Breeders Cup which is less than 2 weeks away.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk to longtime south Florida trainer Henry Collazzo about Calder as we countdown it’s final days. Pat Cummings of the Thoroughbred Ideas Foundation joins us on the 2nd half of the show to talk about the hot button topic of DQ’s, how our current system is failing us and what changes can be made to develop a better way. We finish up the show speaking to Gabby Sanchez of the Cowboy Channel which is an horse-centric cable channel that is expanding its horseracing coverage.

On tonight’s Going in Circles Big Monday show we recap the weekend stakes events and their potential impact on the Breeders Cup in a few weeks. Barry is a Happy Saver fan and I’m a little more skeptical about him. Tacitus gets his share of scorn (deservedly) and we also talk about the Futurity, the Frizette, the Champagne and Matron Stakes. Plus our weekly “what are the stewards doing” segment and displeasure about a certain award and what to do about racing in California.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk to trainer Ron Moquett about his popular sprinter Whitmore and the state of the game from his point of view. Frank Vespe from The Racing Biz, our second guest, recaps the big Preakness upset by Swiss Skydiver and the rest of Saturday’s stakes from Pimlico. Author Eric Floyd closes out the show telling us about his unique book, Heavens Premier Horse Race, which brings together the first 11 Triple Crown winners in hypothetical race.

On tonight’s show we recap the huge weekend of racing highlighted by Swiss Skydivers upset Preakness win. We also talk about Beyer figures and how speed figures can mean different thing to different people. Also discuss the closing of mainstay racetracks like Calder/GPW, Suffolk Downs and the soon to be shuttered Arlington Park and what impact that will have on racing moving forward.

On the second part of Going in Circles LIVE we speak with Kim Weir of the TRF about their upcoming virtual horse show featuring the horses and inmates of the TRF Blackburn facility on October 20th

On today’s show we previewed this Saturday’s Preakness stakes which is in the unusual spot of being the final leg of the Triple Crown. Longtime owner and handicapper Tom Cannell leads of the show with his insights. He is followed by NY jockey agent Jason Beides who offers his professional opinion of the Preakness and other races on the card.

We talk about the weekends big races including what to think about Maximum Security off of his so-so effort in the Awesome Again. Also discuss the weakness of California graded races in comparison to other jurisdictions and how the number of them might be reduced in the face of declining foal crops.

On today’s special Going in Circles Podcast we speak to veteran jockey Chris DeCarlo about the new whip regulations being implemented in New Jersey where he has been a mainstay for years.

On tonight’s show we talk about the inane whip rules being enacted through the country, touch on some of the weaknesses and items that won’t be addressed by the HRIA including a lot of issues of integrity, the retirement of Volitile, the folly of mass marketing Runhappy and the fallout from the large dip in the KY yearling sales numbers.

On tonight’s episode we discuss a wide variety of topics including Kentucky Downs this past weekend, the Queens Plate, why songs for racing are stupid, how thoroughbred tracks can improve business by following the Gabe Prewitt model and other assorted musings

On this weeks Going In Circles LIVE show we took callers and discussed various issues that listeners were concerned about. The topics were wide-ranging from transparency for bettors, horses shoes and glue-on’s, to the best restaurants in various racing locales including the Smoking Goat in the East end of London, wagering stories, training race screwups, and a bunch of other racing related stories.

On tonight’s show we discuss the weekends events, the fallout from the Derby, the micro-share conundrum and why you shouldn’t be surprised that Runhappy isn’t lighting the world on fire with his early runners.

On today’s Going in Circles LIVE we talk to starter Bob Duncan on issues dealing with the starting gate and how the gate crew’s techniques have evolved over the years. Also talk about the new 20 horse gate that will be used for the KY Derby this year and some of the famous horses that Bob worked with. (Hint mostly legends). On the second half of the show we talked with THT Bloodstock’s Kerry Thomas about his annual Derby horse by horse analysis which comes from a completely different angle than most are looking at the race from.

On tonight’s show Barry and I go through the field of Derby runners and size them up. We also talk about trying to stay positive this week despite being inundated with negative news lately. We wrap up the segment talking about the social aspect of racing that has been missing and all the characters that were around in the good old days.

Going in Circles LIVE is joined by Cherie Devaux to talk about her success in only her 3rd year of her training career. We are also joined by trainer Chad Summers to talk about some of the trends both good and bad that we see coming to the racing and sales businesses this fall.

On Going in Circles Big Monday show this week we discuss Maximum Security’s Pacific Classic win, the baffling stewards/judges decisions this past weekend, how inconsistencies from different jurisdictions on so many issues has led to the appearance (deservedly) of industry dysfunction and stories of Chuck scratching horses from races that left the stewards less than happy 😃

An impromptu Friday show where we sound off on this past weeks bevy of bad news. We are also joined during the second half of the show by Nicholas Vaccerazza who gives his view of racing’s issues from the perspective of a 20 year old horsemen and lifetime fan of the sport.

On this weeks Going in Circles LIVE we talk to four guests from four entirely views of racing. Murray Johnson leads off from the middle of the night in Australia, describing how the handicap system of racing works down under. After him we are joined by Professional horseplayer and horse owner Paul Matties, Jr who has developed an alternative plan of classifying horses for the NYRA circuit and hear his views from a 30 year veteran of the sport. Ilka Gansera-Leveque who is a trainer based in Newmarket, UK offers her opinion of the English style of handicaps and how training over there is both different and the same as in the US. Our fourth guest is Elizabeth Rogers who is the racing secretary at Charles Town racetrack who talks about her perspective as a racing official and some unique facets of their racing in West Virginia. Thank you for listening!

We talk about Swiss Skydivers Alabama domination and how the Kentucky Oaks might be a more compelling matchup than the Kentucky Derby. Then we get into how racing industry people often don’t see the dangers that lurk and that going back to “normal” might be further away than we hoped for. Also preview the Tuesday Going in Circles LIVE show which is going to take on the topic of potentially adopting a different system of classifying horses to get away from claiming races. Plus some bonus college hoops talk including does Jim Boeheim actually age?

The Saratoga Special's Tom Law joins us today to talk about the Derby Trail, Tiz the Laws big win, what jockeys might go into quarantine next week, what is in store for the remainder of the Saratoga season and Barclay Tagg's Hall of Fame resume.

On tonight’s Going in Circles we talk about Tiz the Law’s dominant Travers, Art Collector holding serve in the Ellis Park Derby, what the Kentucky Derby field might look like and things that the industry needs to consider, change or stop doing.

We visit with former well respected jockey agent and racing official Ralph Theroux and Jose Lezcano’s longtime agent Jason Beides. Unfortunately there were a couple audio issues due to weather at both ends of the calls.

We talk with NY trainer Rick Schosberg about his career and his work for horses and horseman with NYTHA