At the training ground.
"That outfit really does look sharp."
Tetsuya Futawatari smiled when he saw Koichi Sasaki in his new gear.
Sure enough, there was a reason it cost so much.
Of course, he felt the biggest factor was that Koichi Sasaki himself was so good-looking.
Sasaki had become something of a name even beyond racing circles.
The officials were also interested in promoting him. All Sasaki had to do was keep delivering standout performances.
One year's results certainly weren't enough.
He had asked Koichi Sasaki to come today so he could get used to Japan Jordan's rhythm and current condition.
These last few days were also the time to make Japan Jordan's final adjustments.
The race was about to begin.
"It's all right. I'm still not quite used to it."
Koichi flicked the whip in his hand a couple of times.
This would count as breaking in his new gear ahead of time.
Neigh-
Japan Jordan, led over by the stablehand, immediately whinnied at the sight of Koichi.
It seemed to have seen this two-legged creature before.
"It's all right."
The stablehand hurried to soothe Japan Jordan.
As the person who had spent the most time with Japan Jordan, he naturally hoped the racehorse in his care would achieve a good result in the Autumn Tenno Sho.
Without a Grade 1 win, even becoming a stallion in the future would be difficult.
"Jockey Sasaki, I'm leaving this one in your hands."
"Don't worry. We'll give it our best."
Koichi nodded.
"Of course."
Japan Jordan's stablehand nodded rapidly.
Koichi Sasaki was now quite a famous jockey in Japan, and the stablehand certainly trusted him to perform at a high level.
"Trainer Futawatari, how are we running this one?"
Koichi asked once he was mounted on Japan Jordan.
With Golden