Flatter Pod: Beem, Shug and Prince preview Arlington Million

The Grade 1 Arlington Million returns this weekend to Virginia for the third time. It comes with the added attraction of Kentucky Derby 2024 winner Mystik Dan. The 42nd renewal of the well-traveled race catches the spotlight on this week’s Ron Flatter Racing Pod.

Colonial Downs track announcer Jason Beem checks in from his frequent travels to offer his thoughts on the $1 million race which lured Kentucky Derby 2024 winner Mystik Dan to try the turf for the first time. He also offers his thoughts on the rise of Virginia racing.

Hall of Famer Shug McGaughey trains 5-year-old morning-line favorite Integration and 6-year-old third choice Fort Washington. He talks about what it might take for Integration to go one better than last year’s second-place finish at Colonial. He also discusses Fort Washington’s season that includes two Grade 3 wins.

Paddock Prince handicapper David Levitch zeros in on the Arlington Million as well as the Sword Dancer (G1) card this weekend at Saratoga.

Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park join in checking out listeners’ and readers’ feedback about last week’s interview with Resolute Racing owner John Stewart.

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.