Kentucky Derby Radar premiere: Episode one and Jon’s ultra‑early watchlist

Early selections and a shout to Sierra Leone

Kicking off a fresh campaign this year, the first episode arrives heavy with promise; as the horse racing calendar buds, anticipation builds. On Jon’s preliminary—and truly ultra‑early—Kentucky Derby sheet, two names have been penciled, with a tentative third being weighed. A couple of seasons back, Sierra Leone was singled out by him before major preps even unfolded, and the colt reached the starting gate and nearly sealed the deal, for example in a nail‑biter down the lane.

Journalism, Umberto Rispoli, and the quest for a third swing

During the prior campaign, Journalism became his call ahead of everyone—perhaps with the lone exception of Umberto Rispoli—and the Derby starting gate was reached, after which a bold effort followed. Could round three be the lucky charm? To find out should be enjoyable and genuinely interesting, think early handicapping chatter as an example.

Photo credit to Further Ado, Jenny Doyle, Past the Wire. Videography handled by Big Race Jim Gazzale, Past the Wire. John’s shades: #gucci.