At the instant the race began, the commentator immediately relayed the situation on the track.
"All the Horse Girls made a beautiful start! No one was left in the gate!"
"No contestant missed the start!"
As if for emphasis, he repeated himself before continuing:
"The Strong Individuals of the Classic Year are quite experienced. As if by prior agreement, they all avoided the Inner Lane and moved toward the Outer Lane.
"No. 9 Galloping Thunderclap was the first to break away from the pack, followed closely by No. 8 Phantom Gale.
"The two contestants made excellent use of their centrally positioned Starting Gates to seize the lead in one stroke.
"However, No. 2 Adroit Labyrinth is advancing rapidly. She has caught up to Phantom Gale... and passed her!
"Adroit Labyrinth is now in second place, while Galloping Thunderclap remains in the lead.
"The pack has become crowded, and the Midfield has noticeably expanded.
"As if by prior agreement, the crowd favorite Great Kindness and second favorite Gold Ship are at the very back of the field.
"The two most popular contestants are in last and second-to-last place respectively. It appears they intend to use a late-closing Running Style."
At that moment, the analyst added:
"For Gold Ship, coming from behind is her specialty. Perhaps this race will recreate thrilling iconic scenes from the Satsuki Sho, the Arima Kinen, and other races.
"Great Kindness has also employed late-closing tactics many times in the past, and she has faced Gold Ship before. She is very likely intending to keep a close eye on her in this race."
As the commentary continued, the Horse Girls raced down the side straight, drawing wave after wave of cheers from the stands right at the start.
"Wow! It really is a late-closing run!"
Gripping the railing,