What’s On My Mind?

We live in a time when people sit in the same room and have a smart phone, iPad, or some sort of techno distraction as we no longer communicate. My girlfriend plays a game on her phone about trivia, and my son texts to his friends. I asked what they wanted to watch, and nobody answered back. The answer hit me like a ton of bricks which neither could comprehend. Unplug and relax. Remember? You sat around and learned about each other’s day, and what was on their plate. This got me to thinking about my Saturday morning rituals. I would do the shower and shave routine, and sit back with a glass of juice and turn on HRTV. I looked forward to getting the news, track info, and the latest scoops. No distractions, texts, or on-line games to keep me away from the one-of-a-kind info being served.

We keep up to speed on-line, and at the same time learn more about each other. Peter Lurie was let go from HRTV, and it appeared on many racing sites. Facebook is that place where some bear their soul, give an explanation, or just communicate on a larger stage. Mr. Lurie was the perfect fit, and he will be missed greatly by handicappers. He brought a sense of racing professionalism that is rare in these times. When I saw this post, I felt a lump in my throat you would only know if you have been laid off, downsized, or just let go. I’m not trying to speak for Mr. Lurie, but wanted to pass on to our readers that he is looking to the future. Best of luck, Peter. Hope to see you at the races soon!

It’s hard to put into words how much love and appreciation I have for everyone associated with Hrtv.. but even more so for all of you out there on FB and Twitter… no matter what happens, It gives me great joy to know in some small way, We made a difference. I’ve never been much of a religious person, but more of a spiritual being.. and I’ve always believed everything happens for a reason. Where ever I end up I truly believe it will be the right place.. and All of you out there I can only say THANK YOU for allowing me to be part of your lives… Trust me, I’m not going anywhere… Still got a lot more to accomplish… Be Well.”

I originally slammed the idea of the TVG/HRTV buyout, but started hoping that bigger heads would appreciate real talent. After further review, this is the beginning of the end of good television racing coverage. HRTV prided itself on having quality talent who know racing. This is not to say everyone at TVG is unprofessional, or a buffoon. But, there has been a history of goofing around and talking about wine, places to eat, and race coverage is shown when time allows. The sport is the star, and not the pretty people who talk about mani/pedi visits to the spa. I sure hope they turn up the heat, or more folks will lean away from the TVG/ADW. For me, I just turn down the sound or watch on computer. Unless you would have Thom “Tell-it-like-it-is” Amoss bringing us closer, or the return of Mr. B. – Racing coverage may stink until they remove their heads from the clouds.

Just when I thought things would settle down for awhile, I got back on social media to find out another bad decision has been made. I found this post from Aaron Vercruysse, who was speaking for he and his talented partner Jeff Siegel.

“Jeff and I did our last show together this morning on HRTV/TVG. It has been a blessing to have such a fun job (if you can call it a job, I never did). We are on to a different endeavor but know that race fans will hear from us again, only through a different outlet. Many thanks to all the friends made and fans of racing wherever you may be. I know I can speak for both of us in wishing TVG the best of luck, make racing proud.” Here is a Twitter

Jeff Siegel  ?@HRTVJeff             Mar 9

To those who have inquired, Aaron and I have completed our obligation to HRTV/TVG and will no longer be part of the talent rotation.

No more “The Player, Clocker’s Corner, or Inside Information.” I know I wasn’t alone enjoying quality programming, and I’m aware there are some casualties when something is bought out. It has happened to me and many other friends who work in racing, and no matter what is said, paid out, or posted. It’s never easy, and we only hope the best for these quality folks. It leaves me thinking what is the plan? Is there some master plan the public doesn’t know about? Maybe more communication would be a good start. Stop punishing the bettors and fans of the game, and let us plan ahead with no surprises. Best of luck to the talented folks who will no longer be a part of our Saturday mornings.