by Alan B. Gibson

Derby time – let the run begin

All of the world will be focused on our Bluegrass state this Saturday, rain or shine – for the 137th Run for the Roses at Churchhill Downs in Louisville.

Hopefully, this year, I’ll actually get to watch the race.

Just as the post time approached last year, the surge of electrical storms that brought torrential rains into the area, knocked out electricity and it wasn’t until sometime Sunday morning that I was actually able to watch a replay of the Kentucky Derby.

So, who do we bet for this time.

Last year – even though it was a day after before I learned I had correctly picked the winning horse in this space – I basked in having predicted that Calvin Borel and Super Saver would cross the finish line first and head for the winner’s circle.

So, this year, we’re hoping for a two in a row winning pick, and again, I’m going with my favorite “sound” when reciting the horses name.

Says here, place your $2 bet on “Uncle Mo” and as it turns out, the big guy is one of the favorites.

Trained by Todd Pletcher with John Velazquez scheduled to be up, Uncle Mo shares the same name as the long-time boxer that was my daily ride to work companion for a decade or so. Gotta go with the heartstrings tug here.

Post-time is slated for 5:24 local time, and this year, where ever I am, there will be a battery-powered radio within reach.