"Eat up, and thanks for your hard work today."
After the race ended, Koichi also stopped by the stable to check on Epiphaneia.
Kuga Kai had prepared a feast for him well in advance.
The racehorse's lavish meal really wasn't much cheaper than their own dinner that evening.
With this race safely won, they could return to Hokkai Ranch for a rest.
Neigh-
Epiphaneia whinnied, then plunged his head straight into his feed tub.
He was bound to be tired after racing.
Besides, he didn't get this much delicious food at every meal. Clearly, he had earned some extras with his excellent performance today.
"Jockey Sasaki, I think I'll need a little longer here."
Kuga Kai was naturally referring to tonight's gathering.
He still had a few follow-up tasks to finish.
"No problem. We have plenty of time today anyway. Take care of your work first, then come over once you've checked everything."
Koichi glanced at his phone.
Seeing Epiphaneia enjoying his food so much put his mind at ease.
The horse could get a good rest today, and Koichi could come see him again tomorrow.
The horse transport truck and flight arrangements had more or less been finalized too. All that remained was to wait until Epiphaneia had rested.
"Okay."
After answering, Kuga Kai glanced at Epiphaneia, who still had his head buried in his food.
He was truly happy to have been assigned a racehorse like this.
Perhaps next year, Epiphaneia could even follow in Gold Ship's footsteps and make history of his own.
Koichi nodded and turned to leave.
There was still some time before the evening gathering began, but he could buy something to eat elsewhere first. After a full day of racing, he felt an urgent need to replenish his energy.
Fortunately, there was a