In this episode of The Horse Whisperer Podcast, we feature an exclusive interview with Kentucky Derby winner Junior Alvarado, who clinched his first Derby win aboard Sovereignty. Alvarado shares his strategy for navigating the muddy track at Churchill Downs and reflects on the significance of this thrilling victory, especially following his recent recovery from a shoulder injury.

Alvarado, sponsored in his historic win by Randy's Ice Cream restaurant, Hilldebrandt's gives us a truly unique taste of the whirlwind 48 hours since his incredible victory.

Later, Randy and the crew delve into the phenomenon they've dubbed the "Whisper Bump," discussing how the top four finishers in this year's Derby—Alvarado on Sovereignty, Umberto Rispoli on Journalism, Flavien Prat on Baeza, and Luan Machado on Final Gambit—were all recent guests on our show.

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Get ready for the ride of the year! In this special Derby Day edition, jockey Maddy Olver joins The Horse Whisperer himself, host and racehorse owner Randy Sarf, for an exclusive, inside-the-rails breakdown of the most thrilling day in horse racing.

From paddock insights to jockey strategy, Maddy shares her rising-star perspective while Randy brings his seasoned owner’s eye to the field. Together, they handicap every race on the card at Churchill Downs, offering sharp takes, bold predictions, and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Whether you're a seasoned bettor, a racing fanatic, or just along for the gallop, this episode is your all-access pass to the Biggest Day in Racing.

On our 18th episode, Junior Alvarado (Post #18) and Johnny Velazquez (Post #10) join us to discuss their careers and strategies heading into the Kentucky Derby.

Later, Randy and the Gang give their Derby picks, and we hear from all of you, as we get the listeners' picks as well!

Johnny Velazquez

With over 6,500 career wins, three Kentucky Derby victories, and two Eclipse Awards as Outstanding Jockey, Johnny Velazquez is more than a champion — he’s a force.

From the racetracks of Puerto Rico to the grandest stages of Churchill Downs, he's ridden the best of the best, overcome devastating injuries, and come back stronger every time.

Beyond the track, he’s been a powerful voice for rider safety and reform as the longtime Chairman of the Jockeys’ Guild — fighting for the rights and well-being of his fellow athletes.

Now, as he gears up to ride Grande in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, Johnny V is still proving that greatness has no expiration date.

Junior Alvarado

Junior Alvarado is one of the most respected jockeys in the game — a rider known not just for his talent, but for his composure, his instincts, and the way he shows up when it matters most.

Born and raised in Venezuela, he came to the U.S. chasing a dream, and over time, he built a career marked by consistency, grit, and moments of brilliance on some of the sport’s biggest stages.

He’s ridden in the Kentucky Derby, the Breeders’ Cup, and the Belmont Stakes. He’s partnered with some of the most talented horses in recent memory - Art Collector, Zandon, Mohaymen, and FlatOut. And he’s notched over 2,000 career wins, a milestone that speaks to both longevity and mastery.

Now, he's chasing a Derby win atop Sovereignty from the 18th post, and he will tell us about it in our 18th episode!

Get, ready for a jam-packed episode with a super surprise ending!

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