"Excellent judgment!"
On the way back, Yutaka Take, who was ahead of him, waited a moment for Koichi.
Although he had taken third place this time, he was far from satisfied. After all, the gap between third and first had been far too wide.
"I had a bit of luck this time, too. You put on a brilliant performance today, Mr. Take."
Koichi smiled and nodded.
Earning this man's recognition was no easy feat.
An eighth favorite finishing third counted as a minor upset.
Not every racehorse could run on autopilot. Whether they could perform to their usual standard on the track still depended on their jockeys' judgment.
Red Star, who had opened up a huge lead at the start, was a perfect example.
"Good luck in next month's race."
Yutaka Take's gaze grew more intent.
No one would underestimate this new partnership now. Naturally, he would also be competing in the second leg of the Triple Crown next month.
They would settle things then!
"You still have another race later, don't you, Mr. Take? I'll be heading off, then."
After chatting a little longer, Koichi took his leave with Golden Masterpiece.
After all, they still had photos and interviews coming up.
Neigh-
Golden Masterpiece quickened his steps, too.
Although today's run hadn't felt particularly satisfying, it had been quite good overall, because he had easily taken first place again.
Being bigger makes you stronger?
Asho scoffed at the idea.
"Koichi, Koichi, you really gave me a scare!"
Hitachi Yosuke pulled Koichi into a huge hug.
He had breathed a sigh of relief when he saw Golden Masterpiece suddenly burst forward over the final 500 meters.
Now no one could use Golden Masterpiece's defeat at Tokyo Racecourse as a two-year-old against them anymore. This race carried far more weight than