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| Staff Writer |
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Mitsu Nakauchida, the Japanese trainer still buzzing from Forever Young's near-miss in this year's Kentucky Derby, has made a bold statement at Keeneland's September Yearling Sale, securing a colt he hopes will carry his colours in the 2026 renewal of America's most famous race.
The hammer fell at US$1.25 million for the son of Into Mischief, consigned by Lane's End as Hip 167. The strapping bay colt, bred by Alpha Delta Stables, caught Nakauchida's eye from the moment he set foot on the grounds.
"He's a very lovely horse. Well fitted and a strong, muscular type. I'm very happy to get him," Nakauchida beamed, his excitement palpable as he contemplated the colt's future.
When asked about his intentions to return to Churchill Downs in 2026, Nakauchida's response was unequivocal: "Yes, I would hope so."
The purchase comes hot on the heels of Forever Young's gallant second-place finish in this year's Gr.1 Kentucky Derby, a result that has only intensified Japan's fascination with America's most prestigious race.
The Japan-bound colt boasts an impressive lineage, being the first foal out of Point of Honor, winner of the 2019 Gr.2 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes. The Curlin mare was a three-time winner from 13 starts, placing in four Group One races and amassing earnings of US$738,890.
Allaire Ryan, Lane's End's director of sales, spoke highly of the colt's dam: "Point of Honor was a very talented, classic-distance type of mare. The type of pedigree that, if he can do well, he's got it built in to be a stallion."
The Kentucky Derby has seen its fair share of international winners in recent years. The likes of Mage (2023), Rich Strike (2022), and Medina Spirit (2021, subsequently disqualified) have etched their names into the Derby's illustrious roll of honour, each going on to achieve further success at the highest level.
Nakauchida is already dreaming beyond the colt's racing career, eyeing potential stallion prospects. "He has a very good pedigree, so I hope he will be a stallion one day," he mused. "I hope that he will suit the Japanese racing style."
Ryan revealed that the colt had always stood out at Lane's End. "He's always been one of the most forward on the farm," she said. "Coming into the sale, we had confidence that he was going to appeal to people at the top level, and that's what he did."
As the dust settles on another high-profile sale at Keeneland, all eyes will be on this Into Mischief colt as he embarks on his journey to Japan. With Nakauchida's expert guidance and the weight of a nation's expectations, could this be the horse to finally bring Kentucky Derby glory to the Land of the Rising Sun?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the road to Churchill Downs in 2026 has already begun, and it's leading through the Land of the Rising Sun.