S9E39: Tom Hammond, forever in horse country

From growing up in Kentucky to three decades at NBC as one of its most reliable broadcasters, Tom Hammond brings the stories of a career in racing and sports to the Ron Flatter Racing Pod.

Hammond talks about his earliest days not only in Lexington, Ky., radio but also in going to the track and getting involved with horses. He even spins a yarn about an early job as the announcer at a sales ring. Hammond majored in animal husbandry at the University of Kentucky, an achievement that translated well to his time covering races on national television.

In a business that often rewards sizzle before the steak, Hammond discusses his staying power and all the years he hosted the Breeders' Cup and Triple Crown races, complete with post-parade nuggets that became his signature.

Some of the great games and sports events that he has witnessed also are sprinkled in this conversation, and Hammond talks about how he is spending his retirement. Here is a hint. They race horses two months a year near his home in Lexington.

Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park offer their popular host chat.

The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.