Jerry of the Circus - Blaze Wins the Race

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Jerry of the Circus – Blaze Wins the Race

Podcast: Harold’s Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: Jerry of the Circus – Blaze Wins the Race
Release Date: May 15, 2026

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Episode Overview

In this classic “Jerry of the Circus” episode, listeners experience the suspense and thrill of a pivotal horse race where Blaze, the beloved horse, vies for victory. Through the eyes of Jerry and friends, the narrative captures the excitement of the Golden Age of Radio storytelling, combining heartfelt character moments, inventive problem-solving, and the timeless thrill of the racetrack. The episode culminates with both an exciting finish and significant good news for the main characters, offering themes of loyalty, ingenuity, and friendship.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Moments

1. Pre-Race Jitters and Anticipation

• [02:07] Patsy and Jerry eagerly await the race, discussing the lineup and sharing excitement and nerves.
• Notable discussion of Blaze’s training as a former fire department horse and implications for the race.
  • "Naturally, Blaze would run when he heard the fire bells. He was with the fire department long enough. Oh, just training. And he can't forget it." – Patsy ([02:30])

2. The Race Begins: Colorful Commentary

• [03:07 – 04:43] The race kicks off in vivid, play-by-play radio style.
  • Blaze takes early lead, with various horses contesting the front.
  • Spectators cheer Blaze as he begins to fall behind, raising tension.
  • "Blaze is bleeding, Jerry. Come on, Blaze. Come on. Boy, I sure hope he doesn't get tired now..." – Patsy ([03:23])
  • Blaze struggles as Silver Streak and Flashaway challenge him.

3. Jerry’s Creative Plan

• [05:08] Jerry opens a package containing a fire bell, intending to use it as motivation for Blaze—recalling the horse’s past.
  • "What on earth are you talking about? What's the fire bell, Jerry?" – Patsy
  • "Excuse me, Patsy. I'm going right down front next to the railing. Jerry, stop, you. You can't go down there. Yes, I can." – Jerry & Patsy ([05:18])
• Jerry’s ringing of the bell at trackside is a pivotal and secret moment.

4. The Thrilling Final Stretch

• [05:34 – 06:51] Dramatic radio commentary as Blaze surges back, inspired by the sound of the bell:
  • "...Blaze seems to have new life. He's driving like mad... He did it. Blaze passed Our Gene and is now second. Still driving like mad. They're now going down to the finish line. It's a driving finish, folks..." – Announcer ([05:34])
  • The race ends in a “photo finish”; suspense builds as the crowd awaits the verdict.

5. Blaze's Victory & Aftermath

• [06:51] Official announcement: Blaze wins by a nose, securing the prize.
  • "The photograph finish shows it's gotta be Blaze, the winner of the race and the thousand dollar prize. Blaze. Blaze won the race by a nose, or I might say a whisker." – Announcer ([06:51])
• Emotional celebrations between Jerry, Patsy, Tom (Blaze’s jockey), and Mr. Rogers.
• The secrecy of the bell’s role is maintained with lighthearted concern about what to do with it next.
  • "Well, now, don't say anything to Tom about that. That is, unless he says something first. Maybe he didn't hear it. I don't see how he could help but hear it. He surely rang it loud enough." – Patsy ([07:30])

6. New Opportunities and Goodbyes

• [10:02] Tom is offered a jockey job with Mr. Elston, earning admiration from all.
  • "I was just talking with Mr. Elston and he wants to see you. He's going to give you a job, Tom. He wants you to ride for him..." – Mr. Rogers ([10:02])
• Bittersweet farewells as Jerry and Patsy prepare to leave town, promising to reunite in the future.
  • "So long, Jerry, and thanks again. Good luck. Goodbye, Mr. Rogers." – Tom ([10:36])
  • "Goodbye, Jerry. See you next season." – Mr. Rogers ([10:48])

7. Return to Circus Life & Set-Up for Next Adventure

• Patsy and Jerry reunite with Rags the dog and Bumps the clownish friend, catching up after the excitement.
• Talk turns to upcoming sideshow acts and the ordinary routines resuming after the momentous day.
  • "Well, there's a fella out there, a strong man named Balcom, and Mr. Randall just took him on to take the bearded lady's place with our sideshow. Really? Bumps." – Bumps & Announcer ([12:25])

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Memorable Quotes

• "When Blaze heard that bell, he took off like he was a shot out of a cannon." – Patsy ([07:38])
• "All right, Rags. I won't go away anymore." – Jerry ([11:17])
• "Oh, I am. I'm so happy I feel like crying. Why, Tom. Gee, it's wonderful, isn't it? Just think, dad will get the thousand dollars now." – Tom ([10:24])

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• 02:07 – Building excitement before the race
• 03:07 – Race begins: play-by-play
• 05:08 – Jerry’s secret plan with the fire bell
• 05:34 – Final stretch and Blaze’s comeback
• 06:51 – Blaze is declared the winner
• 10:02 – Tom offered new job opportunity
• 10:36–11:17 – Goodbyes and return to circus
• 12:25 – Discussion of new sideshow acts

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Tone and Style Notes

• The dialogue is energetic, wholesome, and true to classic radio drama style.
• The suspense and stakes are palpable with each line, anchored by the earnest voices of Jerry, Patsy, Tom, and others.
• Elements of humor, modesty, and genuine affection run throughout, reflecting the warmth of old-time radio storytelling.

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Conclusion

This episode delivers a classic underdog story with an inventive twist, as Jerry’s clever thinking helps secure Blaze’s narrow win. The emotional highs of victory are balanced with heartfelt partings and the promise of new adventures, making it a delightful example of Golden Age radio charm.

Transcript

[A]

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[B]

Jerry, why don't you watch them line up? They'll be off in a second now. I know, but I'm getting this package from under the seat. I want to have it handy. Oh, isn't that a shame? What, Patsy? Well, the horses were all lined up perfectly and just about ready to go when number one, Tony M. Broke out of his stall. Looks like all of them are ready to go. They're sure acting wild now. Blaze is holding still. Oh, I wish they'd running, getting light. I'm getting terribly excited. Blaze sure is holding still now. Doesn't he look pretty, though? Betty Does. But you know, Jerry, while you were gone, I mean, while you were out in the paddock with Tom, that man down there in the second row in front of us made some remarks he thought were funny. What did he say, Patsy? Well, and he most likely heard what you told me about Blaze running so fast when he heard the bells of the fire department. He thought it was quite a joke. Oh, yeah? Well, I don't. Naturally, Blaze would run when he heard the fire bells. He was with the fire department long enough. Oh, just training. And he can't forget it. Oh, look, Jerry, they're all lined up now. Yeah, and standing still, too. Boy, I call that a perfect lineup. They're off. There they go.

[A]

It's Blaze out in front, Warning sun second by a head, Silver Streak third and Flash Away.

[B]

Look at. Look at Blaze go. He's ahead.

[A]

Starting into the turn, it's Blaze out in front by half a length. Morning sun second by a length. Then Silver Streak is coming fast on the outside.

[B]

Blaze is bleeding, Jerry. Come on, Blaze. Come on. Boy, I sure hope he doesn't get tired now. He's got an outside.

[A]

At the far end of the turn, it's still Blaze in the lead. Morning sun second. Silver Streak is coming fast. And it's Silver Streak now in second position. Morning sun third. And Flashaway is fourth ahead of Tony M. And Little Star.

[B]

Jerry, why does he go faster? Faster, Blaze, faster. It sure looks like Silver Streak is gaining on him. Come on, Blaze.

[A]

Turning into the back stretch, it's Blaze and Silver Streak, neck and neck. Silver Streak is forcing Blaze over to the rail. Here comes Flashaway, overtaking Morning Sun. It's Silver Streak in the lead now, with Blaze running second, by ahead. Flashaway is third. Morning sun fourth, in front of Our Gene, who's now in fifth position.

[B]

Ah, Betsy, he couldn't hold the lead. Silver Streak is ahead of him now. Get up there, Blaze. Come on, Blaze.

[A]

In the back stretch, it's Silver Streak in front. And here comes Flashaway overtaking Blaze. It's Silver Streak, Flashaway second, and Blaze is now third. Morning sun fourth.

[B]

Oh, Jerry, I guess he just couldn't do it. Come on, Blaze. Fight him, Tom. Come on. Come on, Blaze. Ah, gee, Patsy, if you only had a little more.

[A]

Going into the far turn, it's Silver Streak in front, Flash away second. Blaze is running third. And here comes our Gene, overtaking Morning Sun. Our Gene is driving hard and passing Blaze to go into third position.

[B]

Ah, jiminy. Now the Blaze is. Poor Tom is surely trying. Oh, if we only get him up.

[A]

Rounding the far turn, it's now Flashaway out in front. Silver Streak is losing ground fast. Here comes Our Gene. It's Flashaway in front. Our Gene is second. And here comes Tony M. It's Flashaway, Our Gene second, and Tony M. Third in front of Blaze, who's now in fourth position. Silver Streak and Morning sun are both dropping back.

[B]

Jerry, what are you doing? I'm opening this package. I guess I'll have to use it after all. What on earth are you talking about? What's the fire bell, Jerry? You bet it isn't. I hope Blaze can hear it. Excuse me, Patsy. I'm going right down front next to the railing. Jerry, stop, you. You can't go down there. Yes, I can.

[A]

They're coming down the stretch. Tony M. Is third and Chum is fourth. Blaze is now fifth and Little Star is sixth.

[B]

Hey, kid, you can't go down there by the track. Get back. Not till I get through doing what I'm gonna do. Then here goes.

[A]

Coming down the stretch now, it's going to be a driving finish. Flashaway is still out in front. Ower Gene second by ahead. Tony Am is third. And here comes Blaze. Blaze seems to have new life. He's driving like mad. Blaze is passing Chum. He's gaining on Tony Mike. I don't know what's happened to that horse. He's closing very fast. He's now neck and neck with Tony M. And Blaze just past Tony M. I Don't know what's got into him, but Blaze is now passing our Gene. He did it. Blaze passed our Gene and is now second. Still driving like mad. They're now going down to the finish line. It's a driving finish, folks. It's going to be close. Blaze is closing very fast. He's head in head with Flashaway now. And that's the way they're going to cross the finish line. Just inches to go now. They're over. It looked to me like Blaze one, but it was very close. Yes, very close. Folks. Uh oh. The officials called for a photograph. It's a photograph. Finished.

[B]

He did it, Betsy. Blaze won. Look that way, Jerry. He did it. Blaze won the race. What are they calling a photograph finish for Jerry? What does that mean? Well, you see, they take a picture of each race. I mean, just at the line of finish. So if it's a real close race, the judges can look at the picture and see which horse really won. But I know Blaze won it. Well, don't be too sure, Jerry. I hope you're right. But if it was true, they wouldn't bother with the picture to find out.

[A]

Attention, ladies and gentlemen. The photograph finish shows it's gotta be Blaze, the winner of the race and the thousand dollar prize. Blaze. Blaze won the race by a nose, or I might say a whisker. Flashaway was second and our Gene third. Just a second, ladies and gentlemen.

[B]

Yes, yes.

[A]

Word has just been received up here in the broadcasting booth that Blaze, who is owned by Mr. Jack Rogers, was written by Mr. Rogers son, Tom Rogers.

[B]

Taking pictures of Tom. And look at the flowers they're bringing out to put on Blaze. Oh, you're right. He. He just had to win, Patsy. And, well, he did. Come on now. Let's get back to the paddock and meet Tom when he comes back there. All right, let's go. Oh, I just can't wait to congratulate him. Tom did a great job of writing. You bet he did. Of course, that. That bell helped too, you know. Well, now, don't say anything to Tom about that. That is, unless he says something first. Maybe he didn't hear it. I don't see how he could help but hear it. He surely rang it loud enough. Well, it worked, didn't it? Yes, it did, Jerry. I never seen a horse run so fast. When Blaze heard that bell, he took off like he was a shot out of a cannon. Patsy, we go through here. All right. Yes. I could hardly keep track of him. He was going so fast, the other horses almost Looked like they were standing still. Say, Jerry, how did you ever happen to think of the bell? Well, you see, when Blaze ran after that fire department yesterday, I got the idea. I figured if he ran that fast when he heard a fire bell, might be a good idea to have one handy in case he was losing. And, well, I was right. You surely were. It was very clever of you to think of it. But, Jerry, if you don't want Tom to know about the bell, what are you taking it with you for? Never thought of that. Say, will you take and carry it under your coat, Patsy? Surely that's a good idea. Give it here. Here it is. Now, keep it covered up. But what are you gonna do with that bell, Jerry? Oh, I don't know. Give it to Bumps, I guess. He can put it in his prop box and maybe someday he'll find some use for it. Oh, here come the junkies now, Jerry, you see them, huh? But where's Tom? Well, there's the boy that was riding Silver Streak. What'd you say his name was? Oh, that's Warren. Look at him. I'll bet he's sorry now that he turned down Mr. Rogers the last minute. He's mean, Jerry. Did you see the way he kept trying to run Blaze over the rail and crowd him? I sure did. But you see, all that got him. I'll bet you Tom's a better rider than he is any day. Oh, here comes Tom now. Oh, hiya, Tom. Hey, you did it. Hiya, Jerry. Oh, what's the matter with you? You ought to be happy. Yeah, I know, but I guess I am. I just can't believe it's true. Oh, it is true, Tom. And I want to tell you, you were wonderful the way you brought that horse in. Simply wonderful, Tom. Gee, thanks. Where's your dad? Well, he's taking care of Blaze. Come on, let's walk over to the stable. All right. Come on. I want to see that horse. Here's your lucky ring, Jerry. And thanks for letting me wear it. I guess it worked. Well, it's all over now, so. Well, be happy, Tom. I am. I'm so happy I feel like crying. Why, Tom. Gee, it's wonderful, isn't it? Just think, dad will get the thousand dollars now. You should be the happiest boy in the world tomorrow. Come, here comes your dad now.

[A]

Come, my boy. I've got more good news for you.

[B]

Hiya, Mr. Rogers. I told you Blaze'd win.

[A]

Yes, looks like you are right, Jerry.

[B]

What's the good news, Dad?

[A]

I was just talking with Mr. Elston and he wants to see you. He's going to give you a job, Tom. He wants you to ride for him. He told me he thought you were a wonderful jockey and he wants you to work for him.

[B]

Oh, Tom, isn't that grand?

[A]

Tom, I'm awfully proud of you.

[B]

Oh, Jerry, what's the matter? You better look at the time. You know we've got to get back to the lot. Don't forget we've got to get in that mess top before the flag goes down and we expect to get our dinner. Hey, that's right, we do. Well, Tom, I guess we'll have to say goodbye now. We're leaving Fordham tonight and you know, I sure hate to say goodbye to you though, Jerry.

[A]

I don't know how to thank you for being so good to my boy, but I do appreciate it.

[B]

Aw, that was nothing. We had a lot of fun together. I'll be down to the circus the minute it gets to town next year. Okay, Tom, I'll be looking for you. So long, Jerry, and thanks again. Good luck. Goodbye, Mr. Rogers.

[A]

Goodbye, Jerry. See you next season. Goodbye, Patsy.

[B]

Goodbye. Bye, Tom. Bye, Patsy. I sure hated to say goodbye to Tom. He didn't like the idea of leaving you so much either. Come on now, Jerry, we'll have to hurry. Rags, old fella. Glad to see me, are you? I don't blame him any, Jerry. The way you neglected that dog of yours is a shame. Well, I had to be out at the fair. I was working with the Rusoff troop, wasn't I? Yes, but poor Rags, he's missed you these last couple of days. All right, all right, Rags. I won't go away anymore.

[A]

Oh, say, Jerry.

[B]

Oh, here comes Bumps. Jerry. Hiya, Bumps.

[A]

What happened? Who, who won the race?

[B]

Who do you think? Buns? Yeah, what's your guess?

[A]

Oh, come on now, this is no guessing contest. Tell me quick. I've been just dying to hear. Did Blaze win?

[B]

Uh huh, by a nose.

[A]

Well, good, fine. Say, I'm awful glad to hear that. I'll bet Tom feels pretty grand.

[B]

I'll say he does, Bumps. And so does Mr. Rogers.

[A]

Well now, isn't that great? Well, that's good news, Jerry.

[B]

All right.

[A]

Say, Rags has been looking all over the backyard for you, Jerry. He thought you deserted it.

[B]

Say, if you two will excuse me, I'm going to tidy up a bit before dinner. I'll see you both in a minute.

[A]

All right, Patsy, the flag's up already. You hungry, boy?

[B]

I'll say I am.

[A]

Well, come on then. Let's walk over.

[B]

Come on, Ray. Look at him go.

[A]

Yeah. Oh. See? Jerry.

[B]

Yeah?

[A]

Did you happen to take in the sideshow out at the fairgrounds?

[B]

No. Why?

[A]

Well, there's a fella out there, a strong man named Balcom, and Mr. Randall just took him on to take the bearded lady's place with our sideshow.

[B]

Really? Bumps.

[A]

Mm. He's gonna open tonight. I hear he does a very clever act.

[B]

Say, I'd like to see it, wouldn't you?

[A]

Yep. Yeah, I would. What do you say if we get over there at the midway after we have our supper and kind of take it in?

[B]

Okay. Say, what kind of an act does he do?

[A]

Well, I don't know exactly, but I guess he does the usual weight lifting and things like that. However, I did hear that he's different than any other strong man. Well, at any rate, it'll be well worthwhile seeing.

[B]

Sam. Ram. Sam?