?Watched Him Closely?: Horse Racing Trainer of Equinox Candidly Shares Recovery Journey Ahead of Japan Cup 2023

The highly awaited and much acclaimed Japan cup, enthralling hordes of equestrian enthusiasts, is here to stay. It’s been rumoured that the four-year-old sensation, sire of Kitasan Black, will retire after this season and start a new career as a stallion in 2024. Equinox, winner of the 2022 Japanese Horse of the Year, seeks to win the last race on the racecourse in order to cap his distinguished career with a chance to extend his streak to five.

It will be an epic event when Equinox, the highest-rated horse worth 7.12 million, will participate in the Japan Cup (G1). His recent outstanding performance in the Tenno Sho (Autumn) (G1) where he set a world record by triumphing in the 2,000-meter turf event in 1:55.2 at Tokyo Racecourse, adds more suspense to his farewell race. However, recently, his trainer revealed details about his preparation for the Japan Cup race.

Trainer’s insights on Equinox’s Japan Cup readiness

Recently, Racing TV shared a post on X, featuring an interview with Equinox’s trainer, Tetsuya Kimura. When asked about the horse’s potential in the upcoming Japan Cup race following a streak of five wins in G1 races, Kimura mentioned, “This week?s fast work things went as usual. He started his gallop well and came out looking good. He maintained his balance under way, and he was able to stay patient and wait for the rider?s signal to finish strong all the way to the finish line. I wanted to see how he handled the basics, so that was his work. I think he looked good, as he usually does.”

Regarding Equinox’s previous race, Kimura commented, “For a week or 10 days, I watched him closely, and I felt he had gradually recovered to full health. I can’t make any promises with just empty claims. My staff and I will be working hard through Sunday afternoon. Your support will help carry Equinox down the homestretch.”

From promising prospect to global champion in horse racing

Two years back, Equinox became the poster boy of trainer Tetsuya Kimura when scaling up the testing hill road at the Miho Training Center. Although he appeared to be crude, Equinox showed the talent that Kimura had always pictured as the ability of a true, veritable champion horse.

Read More: Horse Racing Sensation Equinox Stuns With Victory Records, Can This Icon Seize the Japan Cup 2023 Trophy?

Kimura understands that seven other G1 winners will pose a challenge to Equinox before the renowned race. Although the horse has a very high chance, Kimura is still cautious of the tough rivals for the Japan Cup race.

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