At Japanoz Stable, blood tests are conducted during the week of a major race or whenever there is even the slightest concern about a horse’s health. For example, if there is muscle damage, the blood test results will show elevated levels, so even if a horse appears to be in good condition externally, testing may reveal otherwise. These tests are usually performed in the afternoon following a workout gallop or the next morning.

When elevated levels are detected, preventive measures are taken, such as adjusting the horse’s feed or giving the horse a short spell to refresh. Daiki commented, “There isn’t just one correct way to prepare a horse to win, but ensuring the horse is in the healthiest possible condition when it races is the trainer’s responsibility.”