Michael Russo had taken a hiatus from training horses in order to be a more hands-on father to his daughters following his divorce. Fan and bettor, Michael Pagonas wanted to be an owner but needed a trainer. The two men met, went into business together and bought a mare for $11,000 - she made them upwards of $450,000 and now her first foal is one of the most promising sophomore pacers in North America. Sound like a great story? It is. By John Rallis.
(Michael Burns Photo)
