KSR - Hour 1 | July 14, 2025

Presented by iHeartPodcasts and Sports Talk 790 (WKRD-AM)

1. Opening and Acknowledgment of Tragic Events in Lexington ([03:29] - [07:03])

The episode begins with Matt Jones introducing the hosts—Ryan Lemon, Drew Franklin, and Sharon the Dude—for the Monday edition of Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR). The team immediately addresses a heartbreaking incident that occurred in Lexington the previous day:

Matt Jones [03:29]: "It was a sad day for our city when a man got pulled over by a Kentucky state trooper. The trooper got shot. Thankfully, he's okay, but then the man drove all the way out Old Richmond Road, shot four people. Two women passed away. Two men are severely injured. And then police officers came to the church and took him out."

The hosts express their shock and extend their sympathies to the victims and their families. They commend the swift and courageous actions of the Kentucky State Police and first responders who managed to contain the situation before it escalated further.

Ryan Lemon [05:23]: "It sounds like could have been a lot worse. So I think the quick response by the Kentucky State Police and the Lexington City Police also prevented this from getting worse. They need to be commended, you know, first responders, all these people that put their lives in danger for that."

Drew Franklin adds personal reflections, highlighting the emotional toll such events have on the community and recalling past tragedies in the same area to underscore the severity of the situation.

2. Introduction to Swings for Soldiers Event ([08:30] - [26:18])

Transitioning from somber news, the discussion shifts to a positive community initiative—the Swings for Soldiers golf event held at the University Club. The event celebrates its 15th anniversary, aiming to support veterans through the Homes for Our Troops program.

Ryan Lemon [08:30]: "So we're live on location today at University Club Golf Course out on Leavestown Road for the annual Swings for Soldiers event. Fifteenth year they put this event on and the man behind it all is former UK star, former Boyle County Rebel. That's how I know him—Jacob Tammy."

Jacob Tammy joins the show to delve deeper into the origins and impact of the event:

Jacob Tammy [08:56]: "My wife Allison and I kind of drew it up at the kitchen table when we were living in Indianapolis... decided to partner with somebody. Homes for Our Troops is the best one. They just do a phenomenal job. We're super glad and thankful that we chose to partner with them."

Jacob shares heartfelt stories about veterans whose lives have been transformed through the event, emphasizing the importance of building accessible homes tailored to their needs.

Jacob Tammy [11:11]: "The mission is about building homes, rebuilding lives... each home is specially adapted for that person and what they need. This year's honoree is Will Thomas... We're going to be able to give him a brand new home with all the technology that he needs, the space to operate, where he can cook eggs for his kids, where he doesn't have to rely on someone else to help him shower, where he can be independent again."

The hosts and Jacob discuss the communal spirit of the event, including interactions with veterans who participate, and the long-lasting relationships formed over the years.

Drew Franklin [12:44]: "It's a fun day for a lot of the guys involved."

Jacob recounts the inaugural event, highlighting a pivotal moment that solidified the event's continuity:

Jacob Tammy [13:29]: "Chase looked at me and said, 'hey, man, that was fun. Next year, I'm gonna play golf.' Now here we are 15 years later."

The segment underscores the enduring commitment of the community to support veterans, showcasing personal dedication and the collective impact of the Swings for Soldiers event.

3. Kentucky Football Updates and SEC Media Days ([27:33] - [36:42])

Post-break, the conversation pivots to Kentucky football, focusing on the imminent SEC Media Days and the team’s outlook for the upcoming season.

Ryan Lemon [27:33]: "SEC football media days start today... Players from Kentucky will talk on Thursday."

Drew Franklin shares his enthusiasm for the season’s prospects, discussing preseason polls, team strategies, and the anticipation surrounding key players and coaching decisions.

Drew Franklin [31:33]: "We have our preseason poll coming up, and Kentucky doesn't go until the last group on Thursday."

The hosts express a mix of anticipation and critique regarding the team’s media presence, particularly the absence of the quarterback from initial discussions.

Ryan Lemon [32:08]: "Why is he not down SEC media... I would get me more excited about the season if my quarterback was up there telling me, 'Hey man, we got this, we’re going to do this.'"

They delve into strategic aspects, including potential defensive tactics under new coaching strategies, and the importance of player conditioning.

Drew Franklin [33:16]: "With so many guards next year and so many bodies, I wouldn't mind him throwing it out there a few times. Throw teams off."

The segment encapsulates the blend of analytical insight and fan enthusiasm that defines KSR’s sports coverage.

4. Donut Challenge and Charity Fundraising ([37:15] - [44:51])

A lively and humorous segment features Ryan Lemon's attempt at the Whiskey Thief Donut Challenge, aimed at raising funds for various charities.

Ryan Lemon [37:15]: "I ate the equivalent of 16 donuts."

The hosts engage in banter about the challenge's difficulty, with Drew and Matt playfully questioning the feasibility of consuming such a quantity.

Matt Jones [41:45]: "That's the moment that I said, you got no chance after seeing those donuts."

Ryan shares the aftermath of the challenge, including a bout of nausea and subsequent recovery, emphasizing the fun and charitable spirit behind the endeavor.

Ryan Lemon [43:40]: "Blue Nil is still going to donate $5,000 to the charities of my choice. And I’ve talked to Stephen Horn. I’ve got five different charities we're going to give a thousand dollars to."

The successful completion of the challenge highlights KSR’s commitment to community support and entertainment.

5. Listener Interaction and Final Remarks ([37:03] - [45:49])

The show opens its lines for listener calls, fostering engagement and addressing audience questions related to Kentucky football strategies.

Listener Shannon Allen [38:56]: "Do you think with this coming team, with the Pope coming out with the focus on conditioning, are we going to employ more of a full-court press ala Patino when he played?"

Ryan and Drew respond thoughtfully, analyzing the potential shifts in defensive tactics and the implications for the team’s performance.

Ryan Lemon [39:17]: "I think he'll give it a little trial. Throw teams off."

The segment concludes with recaps of ongoing events, upcoming shows, and acknowledgment of contributors and listeners.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Ryan Lemon [00:33]: "Possibility means you have a chance."

• Drew Franklin [19:01]: "If I were in charge, I would have had the quarterback out there."

• Jacob Tammy [11:11]: "The mission is about building homes, rebuilding lives."

• Ryan Lemon [43:40]: "Blue Nil is still going to donate $5,000 to the charities of my choice."

Conclusion

This episode of Kentucky Sports Radio masterfully balances the coverage of serious local news with uplifting community initiatives and engaging sports discussions. From honoring the sacrifices of veterans through the Swings for Soldiers event to analyzing the future of Kentucky football, the hosts provide a comprehensive and heartfelt narrative. The inclusion of playful segments like the Donut Challenge further enriches the listener experience, reinforcing KSR’s role as a pivotal voice in Kentucky’s sports and community landscape.

For more updates and to support community events, listeners are encouraged to visit swingsforsoldiers.org or follow KSR on social media.