"All jockeys may now prepare to enter."
The staff had timed things quite precisely.
The stands were packed with spectators today, and even many prominent figures had come. Naturally, nothing could be allowed to go wrong with the preparations.
"Koichi, don't be nervous. Asho's in great form today."
Hitachi Yosuke bumped fists with Koichi.
Whether they could wipe away the humiliation of their last outing would come down to today's race.
Asho had shown no signs of restlessness while circling the parade ring, either.
As for tactics, he trusted Koichi's judgment.
"Leave it to me."
Koichi smiled, then sprang smoothly onto Golden Masterpiece's back.
With Quick Reaction, he could mount Asho even while the horse was trotting.
"Go on. I'll be waiting for you over there."
Hitachi Yosuke nodded, then headed toward the post-race rest area.
Once the jockeys had found their partners, the two white lead horses began their work.
They led their companions toward their workplace.
As the Racehorses began heading onto the track, the cheers from the fans in the parade ring grew louder and louder.
They hoped today would be another day of victory for the Racehorses they supported.
Of course, not every Racehorse behaved.
Some Racehorses sidestepped like crabs, while others charged off with their jockeys on their backs.
Faced with these unexpected incidents, several staff members could only hurry into their gear and run after the Racehorses.
The race could not be delayed.
Fortunately, Golden Masterpiece was relatively well behaved in this respect.
Golden Masterpiece kept circling near the little shelter behind the Starting Stall.
Another day at work.
He had become quite familiar with the whole routine of coming here to work.
The commentators in the booth also began warming up for the race.
"I didn't expect Golden Masterpiece to be