The Other End of the Reins

"...All right. Thank you very much for your understanding."

After ending the call with the jockey's agent and placing the phone on the table, the only sound left in the room seemed to be the hum of the air conditioner.

Change, or not?

There had not been much hesitation over that question. In fact, there had already been a rough idea of whom to approach for the next major race.

However—

Google search: TWKAN

Jockeys like William Buick, Su Minglun, and Oten Shin, who frequently appeared in the Advisory Team's recommendations, were almost certainly unable to accept a Breeders' Cup booking outside their main camps.

All sorts of names and faces flashed through the mind, only to be ruled out one after another.

If only there were a few more Green Omamori...

The thought arose involuntarily.

Just then, a figure forgotten for several months suddenly leaped out from a corner of memory.

Ryan Moore.

After a riding accident in May, the world-class jockey had stepped away from racing for some time.

Based on the information currently available, Ryan Moore would most likely continue serving as Coolmore's temporary first jockey for the rest of the year.

So, could it be worth trying?

After conveying that idea to Trainer Yoshida, a short message immediately came back: "Leave it to me."

While staring blankly out the window, the phone on the table rang again.

The caller ID showed Devon Coe.

Taking a deep breath, the call was answered.

"Sorry, boss. Ando just told me you've decided to go to the Breeders' Cup."

The jockey's voice came through the receiver, surprisingly direct.

"I called to tell you that if the camp... if you want to change riders, I completely understand."

He paused before continuing, his voice noticeably lower.

"Thank you very much for informing