In a span of 23 races between Aug. 31 of 2020 to March 9 of 2022, Roan Mountain compiled an enviable record of four firsts, nine seconds, seven thirds, one fourth, one fifth and a race where he lost his rider while trying to avoid a fallen horse and jockey. The First Dude gelding bred by Don Dizney was well on his way toward joining his sire’s $200,000-plus club, which currently numbers 23.

    The big gray’s journey was halted when he unexpectedly lost his good form, adding just one third-place finish to his resume in his next seven tries. That ended yesterday when Roan Mountain presented First Dude with his 900th winning race, scoring in the eighth at Parx under Angel Castillo.

    Based on his previous seven outings, the gelding was listed at 10-1 in the morning line by the track handicapper, but as the wagering progressed, Roan Mountain was always several points lower on the tote board. With just 2 or 3 minutes to post time, he had dropped to 9/2 and obviously somebody knew something. When the field of nine left the gate, Castillo eased his mount off to the rear of the pack, while the odds took a sudden final plunge to 2-1. Roan Mountain was now the favorite for the race going a mile and 70 yards.

    Roan Mountain galloped along about five lengths behind the leaders until they turned for home. Then Castillo sent him up just behind the leaders, and when a hole opened up between horses, he charged through and out-gamed the closers in the final yards to win by a head. He paid $6.80, raised his career record to 6-9-9 in 38 starts and earned a check for $16,800, which increased his total to $179,885. Based on his improved performance, the $200,000 club doesn’t appear to be far off.