The 43rd edition of the Group One Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse is set to captivate audiences worldwide this Sunday. In what is shaping up to be a spectacular showdown, 17 contenders are ready to challenge the phenomenal Equinox, who has been dominating the scene with a five-race Group One winning streak and a world-leading 129 points in the rankings.
The star-studded lineup includes Liberty Island, the only three-year-old to complete Japan’s Triple Tiara, and Iresine, the sole international challenger from France. The field is further bolstered by established names such as Titleholder, Stars On Earth, Do Deuce, and Deep Bond.
Equinox, a four-year-old progeny of 2016 Japan Cup winner Kitasan Black, comes off a triumphant run in the Group One Tenno Sho Autumn, echoing his performance last year when he followed up the Tenno Sho win with a victory in the Group One Arima Kinen. Liberty Island, fresh from her victory in the Group One Shuka Sho, enters the race with a longer rest period compared to Equinox, adding intrigue to the contest.
While Equinox’s team displays confidence, there is a hint of cautious optimism. Christophe Lemaire, Equinox’s jockey, acknowledges the tight race schedule but remains confident of delivering top results. Lemaire also recognizes the threat posed by Liberty Island, praising her blend of speed and stamina, and her advantage in carrying lesser weight compared to Equinox.
Tetsuya Kimura, Equinox’s trainer, maintains a focus on fundamentals and expresses satisfaction with the colt’s recent training sessions, emphasizing a well-balanced and solid run. Kimura, based at the Miho training center, assures that he and his staff are committed to preparing Equinox in the best possible condition for the race.
Contrastingly, Mitsumasa Nakauchida, the trainer of Liberty Island, appears more optimistic. This sense of buoyancy adds to the anticipation surrounding the race, as the horse racing community eagerly awaits to see if Liberty Island can challenge the dominance of Equinox.
The Japan Cup, renowned for its prestige and competitive spirit, is set to deliver yet another thrilling chapter in horse racing history. With a lineup that features some of the best in the field, this year’s race promises to be an unforgettable event for racing enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
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