Winningest trainer in Churchill Downs history reminds young horse trainers to keep the faith.
In this episode of “Race Horses, etc.” trainer Dale Romans shares advice for young horse trainers. Romans recalls the early lessons he learned from legendary trainers Woody Stephens, Leroy Jolley, and Allen Jerkens. For example, an age-old remedy for feet.
First, he takes us down memory lane with D. Wayne Lukas wearing a five thousand dollar suit in a cornfield. Indirectly, “The Coach” gives advice to young horse trainers on one of the most basic rules of horsemanship. Next, he relives some of his best decisions when it came to entering horses. Finally, he shares some sage advice for young horse trainers and experienced trainers alike.
Dale Romans was introduced to horses as an infant in his father’s racing stable, Barn 4, at Churchill Downs. That is to say he was born and raised in a barn. Since, Romans absorbed the business knowledge of his late father and the horsemanship of his father’s top men. As a result, he has established a world class racing operation of his own, in that very same stable.
The Romans Resume:
- Eclipse Award for Outstanding Trainer in 2012
- Earnings (by Romans trained horses) over $110 million
- 2,045 wins and counting
- 3 Breeders’ Cup victories – Tapitsfly, Court Vision, Little Mike
- 10 top-three finishes in Triple Crown races
- Preakness win – Shakleford in 2011
- Dubai World Cup victory in 2005 with Roses In May
What a fantastic interview. As a high school teacher, there aren’t very many differences between horses and teens. I can give them all the wonderful lessons in the world or feed them the best product, but if I try to shove it down their throats or drag them along, they will not follow. They will come along with me if I give them just the right amount of encouragement. Thank you Carolyn for helping me with today’s virtual lesson plan.
Thank you for your comments Jennifer! It is amazing the similarities between horses and people. Our lessons can come from the most surprising places!