The 152nd Kentucky Derby is set: Renegade tops a tightly matched field with Commandment, Further Ado, The Puma, and Chief Wallabee close behind. With no clear standout, the 2026 Derby is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in decades. Read by Myron Hiernymous Thomas.

In this episode, we journey through more than a century and a half of Belmont Stakes history—its 1867 origins, its evolution into the longest and most demanding leg of the Triple Crown, and the legends who forged their names across its unforgiving distance. From Secretariat’s impossible 31‑length miracle to the heartbreakers, spoilers, and champions who rose or fell on that final stretch, we explore how the Belmont became known as The Test of the Champion.

Then we turn to 2026, where the race returns to Saratoga for the third straight year during Belmont Park’s massive rebuild. Golden Tempo—the improbable 23‑1 Kentucky Derby winner—arrives fresh after skipping the Preakness, while hometown trainer Cherie DeVaux seeks to deepen her historic breakthrough. Renegade stands as the morning‑line favorite, challengers gather with intent, and Saratoga’s softer tempo threatens to reshape the race’s character.

A storied past meets a wide‑open present. The Test of the Champion awaits.

Hosted by Myron Hieronymous Thomas

In this episode of Radio Reading Room, Myron Hieronymus Thomas reflects on the meaning of D-Day and shares powerful firsthand World War II accounts from Mike Engrisano and Arthur Letchford. Through stories of combat, survival, capture, and remembrance, the episode honors the courage and sacrifice of those who served during one of history’s most pivotal moments.