Harold's Old Time Radio Episode: Paul Harvey - Ralph Neves Release Date: April 17, 2025

Introduction

In this captivating episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, host Paul Harvey delves into the extraordinary true story of Ralph Neves, an 18-year-old jockey whose miraculous survival from a near-death experience would etch his name into the annals of racing history. Set against the backdrop of the 1930s, this narrative weaves together elements of tragedy, resilience, and fate, showcasing the indomitable human spirit.

The Fateful Day: May 8, 1936

Paul Harvey begins by setting the scene on May 8, 1936, at Bay Meadows Racetrack in San Mateo, California. Ralph Neves, a young and promising jockey, was competing in his fourth race of the day. As the race intensified, tragedy struck:

"Ralph's mount stumbled. Five horses came down in a jam up. Ralph had been catapulted into the air."
[00:45]

The chaos of the race resulted in Ralph being thrown from his horse, collapsing face down on the track. The initial aftermath was grim:

"Ralph had been pronounced dead even before the stretcher arrived."
[02:10]

Despite his apparent demise, fate had other plans for Ralph.

The Unexpected Turnaround

Upon witnessing the accident, Ralph's friend, Dr. Horace Wald, rushed to the scene. Defying the grim prognosis, Dr. Wald's expertise led to a startling discovery:

"He gazed at Ralph Neves for a rather long time. Then suddenly, inexplicably, he was compelled to reach out and touch the jockey's neck. You know, just feel the carotid for a pulse. There was one. It was. It was. It was a faint pulse, but it was a pulse."
[02:50]

Realizing that Ralph was not truly dead, Dr. Wald administered a critical intervention:

"A single shot of adrenaline brought Ralph bolt upright in the slab."
[03:10]

This miraculous revival set the stage for an unprecedented journey of survival and determination.

Ralph's Miraculous Escape

Despite being in a morbid setting—the basement of Crosby's Mortuary—Ralph regained consciousness and exhibited remarkable resilience. Still dressed only in his pants and one boot, Ralph fled the mortuary:

"Ralph ran two miles to San Mateo. He ran two miles."
[03:25]

His relentless spirit drove him to seek help, culminating in a dramatic return to the racetrack where the incident occurred:

"Still wearing only his pants and one boot, he ran into the grandstand. Somebody cried, there's Ralph Nevis, the dead jockey. And there were screams. And the crowd started charging him."
[03:50]

Ralph's defiance in the face of panic and adversity highlighted his unwavering determination to return to what he loved most—horse racing.

Recovery and Legacy

The following day, May 9th, marked Ralph's triumphant return to the racetrack. His story of survival and perseverance resonated deeply within the racing community:

"Next day, May 9th. Next day, Ralph's back in the saddle. He's back on the track, and he's racing."
[04:10]

Ralph continued to race until his retirement 28 years later, amassing an impressive 3,772 first-place finishes, securing his position as the 23rd winningest jockey of all time. His legacy is a testament to overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds:

"In order to make that record, Ralph had to come back from the grave."
[04:20]

Dr. Wald, reflecting on the incident, offered his professional perspective:

"Decided then that it was a profound depression of the nervous system. That's what had made it seem that Ralph Nevis had died."
[04:15]

Conclusion

Paul Harvey's recounting of Ralph Neves' incredible journey serves as an inspiring narrative about resilience, hope, and the power of the human spirit. Ralph's story transcends the world of horse racing, offering a profound lesson on the importance of never giving up, even when the odds seem stacked against you. As Ralph Neves' name continues to shine in the Racing Hall of Fame, his legacy remains a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Horace Wald on Realizing Ralph's Pulse:

  "There was one. It was. It was. It was a faint pulse, but it was a pulse."
  [02:50]

• Narration of Ralph's Escape:

  "He ran two miles to San Mateo. He ran two miles."
  [03:25]

• Reflection on Ralph's Legacy:

  "In order to make that record, Ralph had to come back from the grave."
  [04:20]

This episode not only highlights a remarkable true story but also underscores the timeless allure of radio storytelling, reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio. Through Paul Harvey's engaging narration, listeners are transported back to a time when such tales captivated families around the radio, fostering a shared sense of wonder and community.