About this episode

The episode features a roundtable discussion with past winners of the National Horseplayers Championship and insights from a trainer on racing and personal challenges.

From the National Horseplayers Championship in Las Vegas, past winners discuss present issues for the sport on the first live-ish episode since January of the Ron Flatter Racing Pod. David Harrison, Mike Gillum and defending victor Dan Piazza, three of the last four NHC winners, gather in a roundtable to talk about the secrets to their successes. They also weigh tournaments against everyday play in racing and the impact of computer-assisted wagering on their handicapping. Back at the track, trainer Will Walden discusses maiden winner High Camp, who tries to extend his one-turn acumen Saturday in the Virginia Derby, a virtual win-and-you're-in qualifying prep for Kentucky Derby 2026. Walden also discusses his conquering of substance abuse and how his stable has reached out to others who have had similar challenges. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has tips for Saturday races, including the Virginia Derby, the Grade 3 Whitmore Stakes at Oaklawn and the Captiva Island at Gulfstream Park. John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson from Fairmount Park are along with their weekly host chat, including the latest developments in the bankruptcy story at Hawthorne, the…

People in this episode

Guests: David Harrison, Mike Gillum, Dan Piazza

Topics covered

• horse racing
• tournaments
• handicapping
• substance abuse
• listener feedback
• bankruptcy
• computer-assisted wagering

Keywords

• National Horseplayers Championship
• Virginia Derby
• handicapping
• substance abuse
• computer-assisted wagering
• listener feedback
• tournaments

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Horse Racing Nation

Places: Las Vegas, California, Florida, Kentucky

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• S9E26: Talking Kentucky Derby & Apple Blossom · April 9, 2026 · 1h 32m
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