Once the workout gallop video was released, the online consensus was naturally optimistic.
No one could imagine Gold Ship losing this race now.
Koichi Sasaki already had one Hanshin Daishoten under his belt as a jockey, and his ability to turn defeat into victory under those circumstances certainly showed considerable skill.
Things were certainly looking much better than when Golden Masterpiece had entered the race.
After this warm-up race, Gold Ship would be going for his fifth Grade 1 win.
Once the video was out, the comments beneath it began piling up.
Go, Gold Ship!
It's just a warm-up race. As long as last year's situation doesn't happen again, he's sure to win.
Don't jinx him!
I bought a ticket for Sunday. This time, I'm definitely going to cheer for Gold Ship in person.
The second and third favorites look like they can't keep up with Gold Ship at all.
Gold Ship, lead us to victory again!
"What are you looking at that's got you smiling so much?"
Koichi asked Mirai as she ate her boxed dinner.
"Some comments under the videos. There's today's workout gallop, as well as race predictions and analysis from sports shows."
Mirai took off her headphones before answering.
The general sentiment was naturally the same as last year.
Gold Ship was also getting ready to leave at noon the next day, arrive at Hanshin Racecourse that afternoon, and begin the remaining preparations for the race.
"So you've picked up that hobby now, too? Eat first. It won't taste good once it gets cold."
Koichi quite liked tonight's specially prepared boxed dinner.
Unfortunately, he would be back to fitness meals tomorrow.
He savored this hard-earned bit of happiness.
His agent had been busy with other matters lately, but Saki Ikegami would definitely be at Hanshin Racecourse