February 12.
Following yesterday's races, today's racing promised to be even more exciting.
But people had to choose between Tokyo and Kyoto.
Quite a few chose the Kyodo News Hai for three-year-olds.
Most of the runners in the Kyoto Kinen were horses that had performed well last year or earlier, while this year's three-year-old races had everyone wondering who would take the crown.
This was the time to dream. Perhaps a new Triple Crown Winner would emerge from among these horses.
Yesterday had been exhausting, but only four of today's twelve races were on turf, so Koichi had a little more time to spare.
That morning, he went straight to the stables to check on Gold Ship.
The veterinarian assured him that there were no problems at all.
Instead of lying down to sleep as before, Gold Ship was now sleeping while leaning against the railing.
Despite having a race that afternoon, he was still taking it easy that morning.
"Young Master, I think Ship's in great shape today."
Mirai had already changed into her work clothes.
Previously, she had always handled things alone, but this time Yamana Takuto would accompany her.
"Yeah, let's hope so."
Koichi glanced at Gold Ship, whose ears twitched.
His eyes were closed, but his ears were still moving.
This time, Gold Ship had also secured his place as the favorite.
He had become the favorite partly because the training data they had released was very impressive, and partly because of his nickname.
The third reason was the ability Gold Ship had shown as a two-year-old.
Although his starts were less than stellar, his ability really was in a class of its own. Gray horses also drew more attention when they raced.
"Sasaki, let's get going. The turf races are up next."
Saki Ikegami spoke