Entering the course, cantering out, warming up, loading into the stalls.
After throwing a tantrum in the Parade Ring, Gold Ship had settled back into a normal state.
This was not Koichi's first Tenno Sho, either.
With his previous experience to draw on, he naturally hoped Gold Ship could secure a good pressing position. Their stall draw was excellent, after all.
Running as a closer this time definitely would not work very well.
Kyoto Racecourse was not suited to closers, either, and things were bound to get especially crowded when eighteen racehorses entered the turn.
Whatever happened, he still had to give it a try.
And, much like their previous races, some horses would take off in front as soon as this race began.
Neigh, neigh-
Gold Ship loaded smoothly into the starting stall, then waited for the gates to open.
Koichi adjusted his helmet, then stroked Gold Ship's mane.
Yutaka Take and Masayoshi Ubaname also began making their final adjustments.
147th Tenno Sho Turf, right-handed outer course, 3,200 m Weather: sunny Turf: firm Post time: 15:40
Two successive stretches on the outer course, then a lap around.
Covering these 3,200 meters would take at least three minutes, considerably longer than most other races.
Clap, clap, clap-
The spectators in the stands were clapping along to the opening fanfare for the Tenno Sho.
Although long-distance races were slightly less exciting to watch than sprints and middle-distance races, plenty of people enjoyed races that lasted longer.
They cheered on the horses and jockeys taking part.
"Final preparations are underway for the 147th Tenno Sho. This is also Gold Ship's first challenge at the Tenno Sho!"
"Please turn your attention to the starting stalls. The race is about to begin."
As the camera moved, the commentators got ready as well.