"The biggest change will be with me. When I realized he had a lot of talent, I played things safe. This year I'd like to train him harder, shoe him different and even race him a little more aggressively."
A Rocknroll Dance is ranked at #3 in the Trot 2012 Pepsi North America Cup Spring Book with odds of 6-1. Trot Insider contacted the Rocknroll Hanover colt's trainer and co-owner, Jim Mulinix for an indepth look at the colt that qualified last week at Hoosier Park in 1:55.4.
Where did he winter?
"Right here at the farm in Ohio"
When did you start back with him?
"I only gave him about four or five weeks off after the Governor's Cup. I just didn't want to let him get too far off. He was always healthy and sound and he ended the year up sharp. It wasn't like he needed to heal up."
Have you noticed any changes from last year to this year?
"Everyday he feels so good; whenever you go to the track he's bouncing and playing. He did fill out and grew a little, most of the buckles went out a notch. The biggest change will be with me. When I realized he had a lot of talent, I played things safe. This year I'd like to train him harder, shoe him different and even race him a little more aggressively."
How many more times do you plan on qualifying him?
"We'll go back in 10 days or two weeks, we don't have to hurry with him."
What will his early schedule look like leading up to the Pepsi NA Cup?
"I kept him eligible to the Somebeachsomewhere but I have the option of also racing in the New Jersey Sire Stakes. It would be nice to get an extra run at Mohawk the week before the eliminations, plus the ship to Mohawk is about half the time for me."
What does his tentative schedule look like after the NA Cup?
"I kept him eligible to lots in case things don't go according to plan. Even the Triple Crown races, maybe not the most lucrative races but more for the prestige factor."