Former NYC Ballerina And Model Builds Successful Horse Racing Syndicate

ELMONT, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – The excitement is building for this Saturday's running of the Belmont Stakes and American Pharoah's pursuit of the Triple Crown.

Among those who will be watching is a local woman who has successfully formed her own racing team, including a horse that is this year's Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner's half-brother, CBS2's Tony Aiello reported Thursday.

From the stage to the stable, former New York City ballerina and professional model Sheila Rosenblum is now at home in the stalls at Belmont Park – and she finds it just as rewarding.

"I'm passionately adoring of horses," Rosenblum said.

Rosenblum now owns 17 horses after forming her own syndicate and hiring one of the nation's top trainers, Linda Rice. Their stable has won purses totaling nearly $2 million in just the last two years.

"This is 'La Verdad,' this is my superstar," Rosenblum said, showing CBS2 the 5-year-old filly that has won nearly $1 million alone.

Rosenblum said her highest hopes rest with a 2-year old she bought for more than $800,000 named "Champion of the Nile."

"He's got good pedigree. He's got a heck of a talented American Pharoah sibling," Rosenblum said.

Champion of the Nile shares the same father as American Pharoah and Rosenblum hopes to have him competing by next year.

Meanwhile, the wins just keep piling up. Earlier Thursday, 4-year old "Mighty Zealous" took second place at Belmont as Rosenblum's staff followed the race on television.

"I cheer in the office when I'm there at the track. I'm here in the office cheering for them. it's like I'm in the winner's circle with them," book keeper Karen Garnett said.

For Rosenblum, that's the goal -- to someday stand in the winner's circle at the Belmont Stakes.

"It was just challenging. At the beginning I don't think anyone had faith that I would last and I know the good ole' boys did not, but I'm still here amongst the men," Rosenblum said.

Rosenblum said she believes her team and her beloved race horses could help to erase the phrase "male dominated" from thoroughbred racing.

Of course, horse racing is a pricey business. To become one of Rosenblum's partners, you will have to plunk down $100,000, Aiello reported.