In just her second start in North America, ROMAGNA MIA (GB) became a graded stakes winner with her victory in Keeneland’s Rood & Riddle Dowager Stakes-G3. She’s been with us since mid-July and made her first start for Graham on August 12 at Colonial Downs in the Beverly D. Stakes-G1, finishing third under John Velazquez. Johnny was in the saddle again this afternoon.

Scott Hazelton of FanDuel TV stated it perfectly in his post-race comments. “The well-travelled Romagna Mia arrives to Lexington, Kentucky and proves best after a mile and a half in today’s featured Grade 3 Rood & Riddle Dowager coming from well off the pace and scoring easily in the end as the post time favorite.”

The 4-year-old gray filly began her career in Rome in November 2021. Before arriving stateside, she made ten starts in Europe – winning three – with her last outing there at Chantilly on July 10. She won the Premio Lydia Tesio – Trofeo Ruler of the World-G2 in Rome on October 30, 2022.

Bred in Great Britain by Cavendish Bloodstock, Romagna Mia (GB) is by multiple Group 1 winner Mastercraftsman (IRE) from the Rip Van Winkle (IRE) mare Washington Blue (GB). She is owned by Team Valor International LLC. Barry Irwin was on hand at Keeneland to welcome her to the winner’s circle, and we congratulate Barry and all at Team Valor!