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| Staff Writer |
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The questions about Equinox's future after the 26th Nov Gr.1 Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse were circulating well before he even stepped into the starting gate.
After his impressive come-from-behind victory on Sunday, many were quick to wonder whether Kawada would continue to compete or retire. Equinox, one of the most successful Japanese racehorses in recent years, is sure to be in high demand once he retires to stud. However, there is also significant interest in continuing his racing career as a 4YO colt.
Trainer Tetsuya Kimura was quick to downplay any speculation about Equinox's future, instead focusing on the next steps for the colt.
"I would like to request you to give us some holiday, me some holiday," he said through an interpreter.
Many racing enthusiasts around the world are eager to see how Equinox would perform outside of Japan, whether it be in the prestigious Gr.1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in Paris or at the Breeders' Cup in Del Mar. The decision on whether to retire Equinox or continue his racing career as a YO colt is a crucial one for Silk Racing, which is the racing division of Shadai Stud and breeder Northern Farm.
Should they retire him while he's at his peak and has no problem finding a mate, or should they run him next year in hopes of him winning more grade 1s and taking on the world's best while trying to avoid defeat or injury?
Trainer Tetsuya Kimura has been cautious with his responses, stating that all his focus has been on the race and nothing else, leading up to and following the Japan Cup. He also mentioned that Equinox's calendar is currently empty. While he seems to be leaning towards racing, he is mindful not to interfere with his employer's decision, so he makes it clear that the final decision is not his to make.
"I would like to check his condition first, whether he's not okay or not," Kimura said. "And then we would like to consult with the owner about the future plans, and at the moment there's nothing that is determined for him in terms of the race. Up to today, the focus was solely on the Japan Cup."
On the other hand, Jockey Christophe Lemaire was quite open about his desires and opinions on what should happen.
"Just remember Equinox as a beauty on the track—next year, hopefully," he said.