Tokyo.
"A new commission?"
Koichi, who was playing a game, asked in confusion.
According to the information he had just received, the race this time was the NHK Mile Cup, which One-Way Passage would be entering.
Wasn't the timing a little strange?
"Yes, this commission came from Carrot Farm."
Saki Ikegami smiled as she spoke.
The commission had indeed come rather suddenly, mainly because the horse's performance as a three-year-old had been somewhat disappointing.
But losing a single race was perfectly normal. Not every racehorse could keep winning without a break.
"I don't have any problems with it. I originally thought I wouldn't get to take part in this race."
Koichi nodded.
They were also a club in the Shadai Line, so he could naturally accept the work they offered.
"The horse's performance clearly suffered after the jockey change last time. They also considered the possibility that the horse hadn't adapted to normal track conditions, so they gave us priority this time."
Saki Ikegami sat down beside Koichi and continued.
They had originally considered Jockey Yutaka Take, but ultimately chose Koichi Sasaki.
The champion two-year-old.
There was certainly no questioning the horse's ability. Alfrey had won three straight races as a two-year-old, including last year's Asahi Grade 1.
"Alfrey. A child of Symboli Kris S, huh?"
Koichi had received the information as well.
This horse would certainly rank among the strongest contenders in the upcoming race.
It was just that Koichi hadn't competed in any major mile races.
This would be a good opportunity to try.
And this time, he would get to face One-Way Passage, too.
"All right, I'll get back to them, then. Make sure you prepare."
Seeing that Koichi hadn't hesitated, Saki Ikegami was naturally pleased.
Sprint and mile Grade 1 races were also events they would