Trainer Romans puts it in perspective

TRAINER ROMANS PUTS IT IN PERSPECTIVE

As the Belmont Stakes beckons, veteran trainer Dale Romans lent a little perspective as he prepares Keen Ice for a run at American Pharoah and the rest of the field in the mile and a half test of a champion.

“I think all the hoopla is great for our sport,” says the Louisville native, “but it is probably better to have a horse running for the Triple Crown than actually winning the Triple Crown. That anticipation is what makes for the craziness. We need superstars like American Pharoah perking the interest of the everyday sports fan.”

As for his entry in the Belmont, Romans is ready for a run. Having upset the 2011 Preakness with Shackleford and finishing a strong third in last year’s Belmont with Medal Count, Dale is delighted with his son of two-time horse of the year Curlin.

“We are going there to win the race,” says Romans. “If American Pharoah is good enough he will win, but we are going to make him earn it. I love the way my colt is training. Keen Ice has a high cruising speed and he does not get tired. That can be very important when you are talking about a mile and a half race. I think he is made to order for the track and the race. He seems to be peaking right now and that is exactly what we need.”