The Radio Reading Room
The Radio Reading Room features the Stories of Americana special Featured Segments feature stories and poetry from some of America's Classic authors, such as, Edgar Allen Poe, Robert Frost, Emily Dickerson, T.S. Elliot and many more. The program is hosted and stories read by long time broadcast veteran and voice artist Myron Hieronymous Thomas. First aired over WQSA AM radio in Sarasota Florida in 1989 the program fast became a favorite of listeners and participants.
The Radio Reading Room
The History of Belmont Stakes 2026
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In this episode, we journey through more than a century and a half of Belmont Stakes history—its 1867 origins, its evolution into the longest and most demanding leg of the Triple Crown, and the legends who forged their names across its unforgiving distance. From Secretariat’s impossible 31‑length miracle to the heartbreakers, spoilers, and champions who rose or fell on that final stretch, we explore how the Belmont became known as The Test of the Champion.
Then we turn to 2026, where the race returns to Saratoga for the third straight year during Belmont Park’s massive rebuild. Golden Tempo—the improbable 23‑1 Kentucky Derby winner—arrives fresh after skipping the Preakness, while hometown trainer Cherie DeVaux seeks to deepen her historic breakthrough. Renegade stands as the morning‑line favorite, challengers gather with intent, and Saratoga’s softer tempo threatens to reshape the race’s character.
A storied past meets a wide‑open present. The Test of the Champion awaits.
Hosted by Myron Hieronymous Thomas