Snort-!
Snort-!
After crossing the finish line, Koichi Sasaki eased his mount down and patted his neck.
Leading by such a huge margin over two thousand meters had really taken it out of him.
Fortunately, they had held on.
Yuichi Fukunaga, riding beside him, exchanged a high five with Koichi.
He really had not expected them to hold on.
After all, Koichi Sasaki had little experience riding from the front. He mainly relied on an explosive final kick.
He had accelerated furiously straight out of stall one.
That had also given Koichi a remarkably clear run out front, with no horses coming up from behind to put pressure on him.
"Thanks for your hard work."
"Thanks for your hard work, Sasaki!"
The horse trainer was delighted as well.
This race alone had earned them several million in prize money. If things went well, they might even make it to the Classics.
Of course, their performance today had been a very pleasant surprise too.
"Yes, he really worked hard today. Let him get some proper rest when he gets back."
Koichi patted Takezono Power, then removed the number cloth and saddle.
With that done, he had an interview to attend.
The all-important Kyoto Kimpai was still coming up today, followed by the Shinsan Memorial tomorrow.
"Of course. Sasaki, I hope we can work together again next time."
"I hope so too."
Koichi waved and headed off for his interview.
"Congratulations on your first win today, Jockey Sasaki. How did it feel to race so far out in front?"
The host began the interview.
"This was my first time trying to lead from the front over two thousand meters. It was quite a thrill, and I'm very happy to have picked up my first win of the day."
Koichi had caught his