TRS: You also spent time on TVG (a Horse Racing Network), did you have any background in horse racing?
JR: Absolutely not! Luckily I had some great mentors at TVG that took me under their wings and helped out beyond anything I could have ever asked for. Everyone there was great and did their best to make sure I was comfortable and it was fun learning a new sport at that level. I got to do a lot of really fun things, I covered the Belmont Stakes in NY and attended opening day at Del Mar, and even though I no longer cover the sport for TVG I’ve really learned to love it. My mom and I still make wagers on our TVG app at home and watch the races when we can! I also think getting to see American Pharaoh win the triple crown this year meant more to me even though I wasn’t working because I had that background and understanding of the sport and just what it meant.
TRS: I've always thought that boxing and horse racing are often two sports that networks seem to believe that almost anyone can do and as a result has had many ill-prepared broadcasters. Would you agree and if so, what can be done about it?
JR: I believe as a reporter, the best way to be prepared is always do your research. You are considered the “expert” on what it is you’re talking about, whether it is boxing, horse racing, or any other topic you can think of. It all comes down to preparation…and when the moment comes, the fans and those watching will know whether you’re faking it or not, and that's when I'll preparation catches up to you. So just always be prepared and know your stuff. No matter what the topic is!
TRS: You also have done some work in entertainment, such as the American Music Awards. Do you see yourself in the future as an entertainment reporter or a sports reporter, if you would be forced to make a choice?
JR: I would be really torn if someone said I had to pick just one. They are two very different experiences, for me, and what I’ve been given the opportunity to do. But I do hope that one day in the future I can do some entertainment stuff again. but right now, I am very happy covering sports and continuing on the path I’m on, and you never know what can happen in the future!
TRS: Were there any special high points as an entertainment reporter?
JR: Yes! SO many! Top moments I'd have to say were getting an exclusive live interview with Martin Scorsese and making him laugh like we were best of buds, interviewing one of my idols, Tim Burton (had I not become a reporter I would have worked in animation) getting to spend a week in London covering the Fast and Furious 6 movie and top number one can not beat moment that I will talk about from now until forever and ever… I hosted the Red Carpet for The Lone Ranger for Disney and TWC And got a kiss from Johnny Depp. I have a photo from the moment it happened and it is framed in my home office because to this day I still can’t believe that happened!
TRS: Hypothetically-If there was an assignment in the entertainment industry, a big horse race, and a big boxing match and all was equal-what assignment would you take and why?
JR: Ha! well I guess it depends on the details…can’t I do all 3?! If the entertainment thing was a morning thing I could run and do that, make it for the big race…and then cover the main event in boxing! Ha! Wishful thinking! Guess I’ll know which I would pick if it actually happened.
Stay tuned for part three of our interview with Jessica Rosales, when we move to her time covering boxing for Golden Boy Promotions...
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