Dale Romans, a lifelong Louisvillian with a deep-rooted connection to the racing world, has taken on the role of president of the Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association. Following the long tenure of fellow trainer Rick Hiles, Romans was voted into this position by the newly seated board. His training career began in 1986, and he has been a continuous presence on the HBPA board ever since, serving in various capacities including vice president.

"Dale Romans: Leading the Way in Kentucky Racing"

Building on a Solid Foundation

Romans is committed to building on the foundation laid by Rick Hiles and previous HBPA boards. He emphasizes the importance of listening to the horsemen and working together with racetracks and lawmakers. Kentucky is currently the number one racing circuit in America, and Romans sees this as an ongoing challenge to find new ways to improve and grow the industry, benefiting racehorse owners and trainers.

With a lifetime of experience at Churchill Downs, Romans started coming to the track's backside as a kid with his father, the late owner-trainer Jerry Romans. He became the all-time win leader during the 2017 fall meet, taking the title from his idol, Hall of Famer Bill Mott. Later, Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen wrested the crown from him 2 1/2 years later. His journey from a claiming trainer to building one of the most successful stables in the country is a testament to his dedication and talent.

Achievements and Awards

Romans has an impressive list of achievements. He was voted the 2012 Eclipse Award winner as North America's outstanding trainer and was honored by the Turf Publicists of America as its Big Sport of Turfdom recipient. He has won the Preakness with Shackleford and Breeders' Cup races with Tapitsfly, Court Vision, and Little Mike. His Keen Ice in Saratoga's Travers (G1) became the only horse to defeat Triple Crown winner American Pharoah in 2015. His first Eclipse champion came in 2004 with the standout turf horse Kitten’s Joy, and he won the Dubai World Cup (G1) the next year with Roses in May.

Throughout his career, Romans has accumulated 2,211 wins and $123 million in purses, including millionaire Grade 1 winners Silver Max, Dullahan, Paddy O’Prado, Swift Temper, Brody’s Cause, Thorn Song, and Promises Fulfilled. His not as accomplished but still highly regarded stallion, Not This Time, has become one of America's most coveted.

Base of Operations and Industry Involvement

Romans has never lived anywhere other than Louisville's South End. He keeps Churchill Downs as his main base, with a division at Saratoga in the summer and splits his operation between Gulfstream Park in Florida and Trackside Training Center in Louisville in the winter. He is a member of the Churchill Downs and Gulfstream Park racing committees and on the board of the Kentucky Racing Health and Welfare Fund.

Alex Foley, the Kentucky HBPA's executive director, praised Hiles for his "unwavering service and leadership." He emphasized that Rick Hiles worked tirelessly to support Kentucky's racing community during years of significant change. Foley is excited to welcome Dale Romans as the new president, stating that his experience and passion for the sport will be invaluable as they navigate the future.