On opening night at Remington Park in August, Dale Day sits atop his Oklahoma perch. That’s a nest that can be a lonely spot, as Day peers through the binoculars from the announcer’s booth. But Day has his share of company; there are equine athletes hearing his call over the loudspeakers, and every now and then, humans listen as well. Day speaks with an even tone, whether it is one on one or to the multitude. If he needs exhilaration for a stretch run, it’s at the ready.

Late in 2020 a phone call led to a partnership. Jockey Reylu Gutierrez was struggling.