Deep Bond returns to the spotlight after a runner-up finish in last year’s race, a 3,200-meter test of speed and endurance.
Yuichi Fukunaga pilots the 3-year-old colt to a dramatic victory at the wire in the first leg of this year’s Japanese Triple Crown.
The Japan Racing Association’s current season features 24 Grade I races at the nation’s racecourses between February and December.
After a pair of Breeders’ Cup wins in 2021, there have been increased expectations for big results from Japan-bred thoroughbreds competing in major international events.
“As the level of Japanese racehorses has increased over the years, I’ve been really proud to showcase it on the global stage,” trainer Yoshito Yahagi said.
Takeshi Yokoyama and the 3-year-old bay colt made a strategic late surge and took the lead with about 4 seconds remaining.
The lucrative race delivers a high-profile event to cap the Japanese racing calendar each year.
Fresh off his Tenno Sho (Autumn) triumph, Efforia races toward the title of Grand Prix Horse at full strength.
Glory Vase collected his second victory in three years in the Hong Kong Vase, while filly Loves Only You won the Hong Kong Cup, adding to...
With Yuichi Fukunaga controlling the reins, the Deep Impact-sired brown colt rides off into retirement with a high-profile victory in his final race.
The Japanese Derby winner will be racing against Contrail, Wagnerian and Makahiki, making the race a unique event featuring four Derby winners from four different generations.
Undefeated in 2020 before a runner-up finish in the Japan Cup, the son of Deep Impact has had a rockier year in 2021. But indications are...
