Randy Klopp, recognized as one of Indiana’s top Thoroughbred trainers, achieved a major career milestone on Wednesday, September 16, when Rosso Fuoco and jockey Joe Ramos won the opening race, marking Klopp’s 1,000th training victory. Of these wins, 639 have taken place at Horseshoe Indianapolis.
Rosso Fuoco, a homebred owned by breeder Michael Klinger and Christine Cagle, took the lead early with Ramos aboard and surged ahead to win by an impressive eight lengths in the one-mile event. Air Charger, ridden by Humberto Haldar, finished second, while Dream Fast and Andres Ulloa took third. This victory was the second in Rosso Fuoco’s career; the 3-year-old Indiana-bred colt is sired by Vino Rosso.
“It feels fantastic to hit this milestone, but it’s really not about me as the trainer,” Klopp said. “It’s a collective effort involving our workers, owners, jockeys, and their agents. Without a strong team, success can’t happen.”
Klopp’s journey in racing began under the guidance of his stepfather, Walter Abner, and he officially became a trainer in 1992, mainly competing in the Midwest. Hailing from Connersville, Indiana, Klopp and his wife Liz—a pony horse business owner at the track—have built a distinguished stable that has produced multiple state champions. His operation has been named leading trainer four times in the last five years, including the past two seasons. Currently, Klopp ranks second this year with 37 wins.
“We’ve handled many exceptional Indiana-breds like Latigo and Joyous Lady, too many to name,” Klopp shared. “It really comes down to the hard work from our barn team. Josue DonJuan, who galloped for me for several years, became my assistant last year. This group has stayed with us for about a decade, and they are truly hardworking.”
A key part of Klopp’s success is his long-term partnership with Ohio-based retired veterinarian and owner Roger Spiess, who helps identify promising horses at sales and co-owns many in Klopp’s barn. Although Spiess did not own the winning horse on this milestone day, he was present trackside to celebrate Klopp’s achievement.
Klopp noted, “I knew this milestone was approaching, and the owners certainly reminded me about it—they keep great track of these achievements.”
Klopp previously earned his 500th career win at Horseshoe Indianapolis in 2016, with Wing and Wheel ridden by Leandro Goncalves. He has conditioned 14 horses with earnings exceeding $200,000, including Cupid’s Runaway, who won back-to-back Horse of the Meet honors in 2024 and 2025, setting a record with 13 wins at Horseshoe Indianapolis in those two years.
With winter training underway, Klopp now remains at Horseshoe Indianapolis year-round. His stable features a mix of younger horses and seasoned veterans, highlighting the versatility and depth of the Klopp Stable.
The current 24th season of live Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing continues through Friday, November 13. For more details on racing at Horseshoe Indianapolis, visit www.caesars.com/horseshoe-indianapolis/racing or follow @HSIndyRacing on social media.
This article was originally published by Paulick Report on September 16, 2026, in their News section.
Fan Take: This milestone underscores the importance of dedicated trainers like Randy Klopp in building the heart and soul of regional horse racing. His continued success and stable’s depth bring excitement to Indiana racing and help foster local talent, which is crucial for the sport’s future growth and popularity.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
