Broadcaster Kules dead at 76

Pete Kules, co-founder of HRRN, also hosted a racing program on Lexington radio (Horse Racing Radio Network)

Pete Kules, an award-winning broadcaster and co-founder of the Horse
Racing Radio Network (HRRN), died Sunday evening at Central Baptist
Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. He was 76.

Kules, a Massachusetts native and military veteran, attended
Princeton before earning his degree at the University of Massachusetts.
Kules enjoyed a television and radio broadcasting career that spanned
nearly six decades covering major sports at every level. He hosted
several sports and racing talk shows, and served as owner, publisher and
writer for a number of magazines and newspapers. Most recently, Kules
hosted the Equine Forum, a popular racing talk show in Lexington, with
current HRRN President Mike Penna. The duo launched the Horse Racing
Radio Network in 2005.

Kules began his career in racing as a hot walker at the Massachusetts
fairs in 1943. Following stints as a groom, veterinarian assistant, and
assistant starter, Kules parlayed his experience on the backside to
become a track announcer, track handicapper and host of seminars at
various racetracks including Churchill Downs, Saratoga, Thistledown and
Finger Lakes. Nicknamed “The Doctor of Trackside Commentary,” Kules
provided fans with unique insight into the history, origin and
terminology of Thoroughbred racing.