Cherry Blossoms for Horses, Samurai for Men

Victories woven from "welcome home" and "congratulations" always made one marvel at the illusory nature of encounters and the beauty of partings.

Once Ka Ying Rising's finishing position was confirmed on the board, trainer David Hayes from Ka Ying Rising's camp was the first to come over and offer a handshake of congratulations.

Judging by the strength in his grip, there was probably more reluctance than anything else.

Baozuo and Yutaka Take, having completed their post-race acknowledgment on the track, were already being led off by stablehand Ikeda. What followed was the same unsaddling and cooling-down routine seen at any other racecourse.

Over here, perhaps because those coming forward to congratulate them were owners and farm representatives, they would sometimes exchange a brief word or two beyond the formalities.

"Congratulations, President Kitano."

The one who said that was Tetsuya from Shadai Farm.

Thus, the hand that had already been extended halfway was withdrawn, replaced by the bow more commonly used among the Japanese.

After dealing with wave after wave of congratulations and inquiries from owners and breeders, they were about to head for the winner's enclosure—

A path opened through the reporters constantly clicking their shutters, and a man in a gray suit strode toward them.

Shunsuke Yoshida, deputy representative of Northern Farm and also the representative of Sunday Racing.

Just as he was about to bow as before, Yoshida reached out his hand upon arriving in front of him, so he naturally shook it.

"Congratulations, Kitano. When I called just now, Father even told me to learn more from you."

"You're far too kind, Mr. Yoshida."

"Not at all. By the way, how about dinner together tonight?"

As he said this, Shunsuke suddenly lowered his voice and leaned closer.

"Father said he hasn't seen you for some time either.