Cloned Mules Racing Debut Nears

Ruby Thomas conditions the feisty Idaho Gem
Cloned mule Idaho Gem has shipped from the Sacramento area training center where she had been stabled to the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds where he will continue his conditioning. He is set to ship to Winnemucca, NV early next week where both clones are set to race the following weekend. The third clone, currently in Idaho, will also be in Winnemucca. The three are expected to garner more media attention that Winnemucca has seen in some time.

Mystery remains over trainer of Idaho Star
Also on track at the Fairgrounds was Idaho Star, Gem's younger brother. He is being campaigned by Roger Downey, American Mule Racing Association board member. Mr. Downey has been very coy about who will train his charge, however. I have not inquired personally, however I have heard multiple reports that when asked who the trainer is, Mr. Downey has responded with "You'll find out" or other words to the effect.

The mule has recently been at J. Browning's farm in Petaluma, CA. Mr. Browning is a horse breaker, but is not known for starting horses in his own name. Per a search of the CHRB license database, Mr. Browning does not appear to have a trainer's license, either. While on track at Stockton, Star was in Ron White's Barn. Mr. White is not believed to have trained or started any mules in the past. It is more likely that Mr. White was merely offering his backstretch operation for the mule care while he was on track for the recent media event. He has since shipped out from Stockton.

Mr. Downey has employed several trainers for his mules in the past, but broke ties with one trainer that had the bulk of his mules in the last few years. In whose name the clone will start remains a mystery.