日本語Yearly Archives: 2024
Wendt won her debut race!
Monday September 23rd, 2024 General
Wendt (4-year-old filly, by Exceed and Excel) made her debut with a victory in a maiden race at Grafton Racecourse (1006m, prize money of total AUD 30,000). After breaking evenly with the field, she quickly settled into second position, and upon entering the straight, she took the lead, holding off challenges from behind. Nori commented, “It was her first race after two barrier trials, so she was calm overall, including at the gates. The horse inside pushed forward, but Wendt settled well when I held her back. Around the 150-meter mark, I thought she might get passed by the second-placed horse, but when they drew level, she showed her fighting …
Former Jockey Joe Fujii and Daiki: A Reunion of Alumni from the Australian Racing School
Sunday September 22nd, 2024 General
Recently, former jockey Joe Fujii and Daiki sat down for an interview with “Weekly Gallop magazine” at the Sankei News headquarters in Tokyo. This marked the first time the two, who share a special bond as alumni of the Australian Racing School, had the chance to engage in such a conversation. On the day of the interview, Daiki was given a tour of the editorial department, where he witnessed the team swiftly preparing articles and photos for the magazine’s release the day after the Sunday races concluded. Impressed by the efficiency of the process, Daiki commented, “I could really feel the professionalism in their work.” His words reflect the energy …
Adapting Japanese Feed Practices for Australian Racing
Thursday September 12th, 2024 General
During Daikis visit to Japan last month, he had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Tsuji, the representative of Crossfeed, at the Ritto Training Center. They exchanged views on horse feed practices in both Australia and Japan, allowing Daiki to gain valuable insights into how feed is administered in Japan. While Japan imports much of its horse feed from Australia, meaning there are many similarities in what is used, one notable difference is the preference for soybean meal among Japanese trainers. This feed component is not as readily available in Australia or other countries, making it challenging to procure locally when Japanese horses travel abroad for races. Daiki remarked, “My …
Utilization of Blood Tests at Japanoz Stable
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 General
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 …
Do It For You Scores Third Win at Gatton
Tuesday September 3rd, 2024 General
Do It For You (5yo gelding by Harbinger) claimed victory in a Class 2 race at Gatton Racecourse (1600m, $20,000). Jumping smartly from a wide barrier, he went straight to the lead, setting his own pace throughout the race. Coming into the home turn, the jockey had to get to work, but in the end, the gelding dug deep to win a tough finish. Jockey Nori reflected, “We were able to dictate the pace. The tight track posed some challenges, but the horse was well-prepared and in good form, so he fought back strongly in the end.” Daiki added, “We had also nominated for a race at the Gold Coast …
Four Runners Represent Japanoz Stable on Casino Cup Day
Thursday August 15th, 2024 General
On August 10th, Japanoz Stable sent four runners to Casino Racecourse for Casino Cup Day. Located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes inland from Ballina Racecourse, Casino is a region known for its cattle farming. The Casino Cup, which is the second most significant race after the Beef Week Cup held in May, drew a large crowd this year. Although we didn’t have a runner in the main event, the day was lively and well-attended. Casino Racecourse is unique among country tracks, featuring a straight stretch of over 400 meters and a finishing hill reminiscent of Nakayama Racecourse. As such, it is known as a course where back markers can …
2023/24 Northern Rivers Region Leading Trainers and Jockeys Announced
Monday August 12th, 2024 General
The rankings for the Northern Rivers region for the 2023/24 season have been released. Japanoz Stable secured 9 wins last season, placing 12th in the trainers’ standings among the 85 trainers from the region, along with others who traveled from different areas. In the jockeys’ standings, Matthew McGuren and Ben Looker were neck and neck until the end, but McGuren clinched the title with just one more win. Both of these trusted jockeys have ridden for our stable on numerous occasions. Masuda, the Japanese jockey who belongs to our stable, finished the season in 6th place. Daiki commented, “We owe our high standing in the local rankings to the support …
Paris Olympics 2024: Japanese Equestrian Team Wins Bronze Medal
Saturday August 3rd, 2024 General
On the fourth day of the Paris Olympics 2024, the Japanese equestrian team secured a stunning bronze medal in the team event. One of the team members, Yoshiaki Oiwa, was a significant mentor to Daiki during his training period in Europe. “I got goosebumps when my respected Oiwa-san won the medal at the Olympics. He has been competing in Europe for nearly 25 years, and there is so much to learn from his dedication. One phrase he told me during my training that really stuck with me is, ‘You only get one shot.’ In the fierce world of competition, opportunities are rare, and making the most of them is crucial. …
Stunning Force has been retired
Sunday July 28th, 2024 General
Stunning Force has been retired. After developing tendonitis following the race in December 2022, we initially decided on his retirement after discussions with his co-owners. However, even after the partnership was dissolved, the owner’s desire to support his potential led us to reconsider a comeback plan. Acknowledging the risk of recurrence, we ensured he had a thorough rest period and provided meticulous leg care in the stable during training. We managed to get him through two barrier trials, with jockey Piesley commenting after the June 18 trial, “He is ready for the race. Everything is set.” Unfortunately, during the final race preparations, he showed signs of lameness. A vet confirmed …
Grafton Carnival in Progress
Monday July 15th, 2024 General
The five-day Grafton Cup Carnival kicked off last week. Today, the carnival is bustling with many visitors, making it a significant historical event for the town. The main races are the Ramornie Handicap (1200m, total prize money of 200,000 AUD) on the 17th and the Grafton Cup (2350m, total prize money of 200,000 AUD) on the 18th. Horses and jockeys from Sydney, which is unusual for this region, have come to Grafton for the high-stakes races. On the second day of the carnival, three horses from Japanoz stable participated in the races. In the Benchmark 66 (1610m, total prize money of 35,000 AUD), Do It For You (4 yo Gelding, …
