Romero Rides First Winner at Indiana Grand

Apprentice jockey Ramon Romero had a lot to celebrate Aug. 27, when he guided Lisa's Cat Nap to an upset win in the second race of the night at Indiana Grand Racing and Casino to post his first victory.

A rookie from Puerto Rico who started riding at Indiana Grand earlier in the summer, Romero got Lisa's Cat Nap to the lead quickly in the six-furlong event. He was able to maintain control of the race and jumped out on the lead by six lengths as he turned for home. In the end, Lisa's Cat Nap was a nine-length winner at odds of 34-1.

"It's really exciting to get my first win," said Romero, who was aboard his 46th mount. "It's been a good experience so far and this win is an accomplishment for me."

 

Trained by Katy Allen, Lisa's Cat Nap also scored his first win. The 5-year-old gelded son of Cat Dreams owned by Larry Hadler finished the six-furong maiden claiming event in 1:12.83 on a muddy track.

 

Romero was working alongside his father as a bricklayer when a friend suggested he try riding as a career. He worked to get his license and started his apprenticeship in June. He also has one second and four thirds.

 

"Ramon is a really good kid that works hard," said Steve Cahill, clerk of scales. "Even when he doesn't have anything to ride, he will come in and work to keep his weight down. It's good to see him get his first win."