The project was largely financed by Post Falls, Idaho, businessman Don Jacklin, who also served as president of the American Mule Racing Association.
Idaho Gem won his next race at the San Joaquin Fair in Stockton, June 21.
Idaho Gem also collected two seconds in photo finishes with the racing mule Out of My League.
On June 4, 2006, Idaho Gem finished 3rd in the Winnemucca Mule Race.
As of 2009[update], Idaho Gem was owned by Jacklin, who was preparing to have him trained for gymkhana events.