Koushou Hayate's changes in preparation did not escape either Anjing Zhen or Kitasan Black.
Since last year's Arima Kinen, the two had grown accustomed to preparing together, not only focusing on their own condition but also investigating their opponents.
Aside from Koushou Hayate, they had naturally investigated, analyzed, and devised countermeasures for each of the other sixteen opponents on the Tenno Sho Spring entry list.
Amid all the intense preparations, time passed quickly.
In what felt like the blink of an eye, May 1st had arrived.
Like every G1 Race, the Tenno Sho Spring had begun building hype early. Promotional posters and custom GG could be seen everywhere in Kyoto, where the race was being held.
Before the racecourse had even opened on the day of the race, many spectators were already queuing at the entrance. Some had even spent the previous night outside, sleeping on the ground.
After the gates opened, the moment the Paddock warm-up began, the entire venue entered the first peak of the day's race under the cheers of more than a hundred thousand spectators.
As Anjing Zhen's other Assigned Horse Girl besides Kitasan Black, Little Anzu followed the usual practice and served as support staff, waiting in the Preparation Room ahead of time.
Even though she was some distance away from the Paddock, she could still feel the grandeur of a G1 Race through the faint uproar drifting over, as well as the indoor television broadcast and announcements.
Unable to help getting swept up in the lively atmosphere, she hurried forward to greet Anjing Zhen and Kitasan Black the moment they returned from the Paddock area.
"Trainer, Senior! You both worked hard!"
Her eyes sparkled as she spoke. Filled with envy, she said, "Just as expected of Senior—the cheers were incredible the instant you appeared!