Dale Romans Named President of Kentucky HBPA

Trainer Dale Romans has been elected president of the Kentucky Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA), succeeding longtime leader Rick Hiles. The announcement, made on December 2, followed a vote by the newly seated HBPA board. Romans, a Louisville native with a training career spanning decades, has served on the board for much of his career, including time as vice president. 

John Hancock and Travis Foley were also named vice presidents, replacing Romans and the late Frank Jones Jr. The board welcomed new trainer representatives Phil Bauer, Jordan Blair, and Bret Calhoun, while Casey Klein joined as an owner representative. Additional members will be announced in the new year. 

Romans expressed his commitment to building on the foundation established by Hiles and previous boards, aiming to strengthen Kentucky’s position as a leader in horse racing. He emphasised his intention to listen to horsemen and collaborate with racetracks and lawmakers to benefit the industry. 

A highly accomplished trainer, Romans has achieved 14 trainer titles at Churchill Downs and numerous prestigious victories, including the 2011 Preakness Stakes with Shackleford and the Travers Stakes with Keen Ice in 2015. He was also honoured as North America’s Outstanding Trainer in 2012. 

Executive Director Alex Foley thanked Hiles for his years of dedicated service and welcomed Romans, highlighting his extensive experience and passion for racing as assets to guide the organisation forward.