2011 Horse of the Year.
2011 Best Three-Year-Old Colt.
-Golden Masterpiece!
Naturally, Ayano Aoe accepted these awards.
At three years old, Golden Masterpiece had firmly etched his name into history.
The Horse of the Year award was proof of that.
She really shone.
Sitting in the audience, Koichi felt that Ayano Aoe was the brightest star of all.
Onstage, Ayano Aoe remained composed before the crowd, displaying an entirely natural confidence.
Her speech focused mainly on her hopes for Golden Masterpiece next year and a firm confirmation that he would run in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
"I believe Golden Masterpiece will give everyone a performance they can be proud of at four, too!"
Ayano Aoe bowed slightly, then slowly walked offstage with her awards.
This felt so good!
A whole year's hard work had earned her these few minutes at the microphone. Of course, the greater returns would come after Golden Masterpiece retired.
Clap, clap, clap-
Applause rose from the audience as she stepped down.
Golden Masterpiece truly had been impeccable this year.
But that was hardly good news for the others. At four, Golden Masterpiece would be in his prime.
Lovely Scenery had already retired, and the remaining racehorses would struggle to rival him.
"And the next award is..."
After seeing Ayano Aoe off, the host glanced at his cue card.
Some of the remaining awards were for fillies and mares, and for sprinters.
"Next, we will announce this year's Hall of Fame Racehorse inductee."
The large screen behind him changed as well.
This year's Hall of Fame Horse was beyond dispute. Everyone had effectively settled on the choice long ago.
``` RA Award for Best Two-Year-Old Filly (2006)
JRA Special Award (2007)
JRA Horse of the Year Award (2008, 2009)
JRA Award for Best Older Filly