September 10, Sapporo Racecourse.
Ayano Aoe had other business to attend to and did not come to this race, but Ayumu Kusakawa still arrived at Sapporo Racecourse on time.
Hitachi Yosuke had not come with him either, as he was helping Golden Masterpiece get back into form.
Megumi Mitsumori, however, had brought someone along this time.
After what Yamana Takuto had said to her, it would have been rather unkind not to bring him.
Besides, Epiphaneia's training was progressing quickly, so giving the two of them a day off was no real problem.
"Mr. Kusakawa."
Megumi Mitsumori greeted Koichi's uncle as well.
Although they had arrived separately, their reserved seats were next to each other.
"Good afternoon, Trainer Mitsumori."
Ayumu Kusakawa smiled and nodded to her.
The horses were still in the Parade Ring, so they were in no particular hurry.
"Hmm, is this the new exercise rider?"
"Yes."
"Hello, Mr. Kusakawa. I'm Yamana Takuto."
Yamana Takuto gave a slight nod before introducing himself.
Without this man, Jockey Sasaki might never have been able to begin his legendary journey.
Everyone knew that it was Sasaki's uncle who had introduced him to Aoe Ranch.
"Have a seat. We're all here to watch the race today."
Ayumu Kusakawa sat down in his seat.
Whenever he could attend one of Koichi's races in person, he naturally did.
"Do you enjoy reading the horse racing newspapers too, Mr. Kusakawa?"
Megumi Mitsumori sat down as well.
She had left the farm that morning and arrived just in time for this race.
As the racecourse was only one stop beyond Sapporo Station, getting here was quite convenient.
"I'm just browsing. It looks like quite a few people fancy Victory Tucks."
Ayumu Kusakawa glanced at the newspaper in his hands and smiled.
Although he worked in the