[Kasept]

I will pass along the exceptionally kind comments about Tony to him this week. It will mean a lot to him. And I appreciate hearing how much you enjoy us together on ATR.

The segments we do are among the most interesting aspects of the show for me. Tony Black rode for years for JJ, and I wasn't sure how he would feel after JJ left.. But what's happened is that we have what I believe are great exchanges because he is so open about his himself, the game, and the mistakes he made in his career and personal life. He can relate to any area of the jockey's existence because he's lived it.

He knows he could have been an all-time great in the irons had he not been seduced by 'the demons', but is more than satisfied with how things have turned out for him through sobreity. He has helped dozens of young jocks make good decisions or save themselves from bad ones, and is one of the most respected and well-liked veteran riders in the game as he reaches the twilight of his career.

After talking with him for more than a year on the radio, I finally got to meet him in person this summer at Saratoga, and was greeted by someone who I instantly felt I had known for much longer. He has the kind of warmth and earnestness that generates a familiarity and is automatically endearing. Knowing that listeners sense that demonstrates what an asset he is to the show and the game.