It’s hard to imagine that a 9-year-old mare with only $85,004 in career earnings could be a record-holder in the sport of thoroughbred racing, but it’s highly possible with Romantic Jewel.

The daughter of First Dude was involved in a dead-heat for the win in her latest effort at Mountaineer Park, her fifth career victory and first since April 21 of 2024. But a closer check of her record shows that she’s finished second a mind-boggling 23 times.

Kyle Gilbert was in the saddle for Romantic Jewel’s long-awaited victory, and he had her batting for the lead in :23.10 and :47.33. She couldn’t shake 2-1 Ashlee’s Ring nearing the wire, and they finished on even terms, six lengths ahead of the third-place finisher, clocked in 1:14.77 for the six furlongs. The old-timer bred by Steve and Bryan Tucker paid $4.20 and collected a meager check of $2,730. She’s now 5-23-7 in her 64 starts.