Noted racing journalist and horseman Josh Pons has been named the 19th recipient of the Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award, presented by the Ryan family’s Castleton Lyons, for excellence in Thoroughbred racing literature published in 2024. He received the winner’s $10,000 check during a Nov. 6 reception at the Lexington, Ky., farm. The ceremony was held in a loft above the historic stallion barn that once housed 19th century champions Domino and Commando.
Tag: Horse racing news
Noel’s Weekend Winners: Value Plays Saturday at the Big A
MediaWelcome to Noel Michaels’ Weekend Winners, the place to go for weekend best bets and spot plays from veteran handicapper and tournament-play pioneer Noel Michaels. Check back every week for a couple of highlighted selections designed to help you cash a few bets and make some money.
Griffin Johnson Awarded 2025 New Owner of the Year
OwnerView announced today that the 2025 New Owner of the Year, sponsored by 1/ST RACING, is being awarded to Griffin Johnson. Johnson is an American content creator, social media influencer, actor, and singer with more than 14 million followers. Johnson was a founding member and resident of the Sway House, a Bel Air mansion and hub for famous TikTok creators. He is also a co-founder and operating partner of venture capital firm Animal Capital.
Lexington Financial Advisor Dave Smyth wins BCBC for $607,800 Payday
The annual Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge (BCBC) tournament presents handicappers with a chance to hit the score of a lifetime and become a champion horseplayer in an event held in conjunction with horse racing’s biggest championship days. This year, that champion was Dave Smyth, a 50-year-old financial advisor from Lexington, Ky., who topped a field of 635 entries to take home total winnings of $607,800 and the title of 2025 BCBC champion Oct. 31-Nov. 1 at Del Mar.
