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| Sumita Pawar |
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Tomoya Ozasa's horses bear his initials, T.O., making them easily recognizable. T.O. Royal showcased his prowess in the Gr.1 Spring Tenno Sho at Kyoto Racecourse, securing a comfortable victory by two lengths from a pace-stalking position.
Another T.O. horse, T.O. Password, is gearing up for the Gr.1 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 4, offering Ozasa the opportunity for a notable international double. Despite being a longshot, T.O. Password, the champion of the "Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby," will represent Japan in the prestigious race.
In the Tenno Sho, T.O. Royal, a 6YO son of Leontes, started as the favorite in the 3,200-meter (about two miles) race, maintaining a comfortable position behind the early leaders under jockey Yuji Hishida's guidance.
T.O. Royal effortlessly surged ahead in the stretch, leaving his competitors behind to clinch a two-length victory, with Blow the Horn trailing behind in second place. Despite being prominent early on, second-favorite Durezza faltered and finished 15th.
This win marked T.O. Royal's third attempt at top-level competition in his 18-race career. His previous wins in the Gr.3 Diamond Stakes and the Gr.2 Hanshin Daishoten instilled confidence in his ability to handle the challenging trip of the Tenno Sho.
Reflecting on the victory, Hishida expressed his joy, revealing that he was inspired to become a jockey after witnessing the Tenno Sho 20 years ago. The horse's connections, including assistant trainer Atsushi Obayashi, had expressed confidence in T.O. Royal's readiness for the race, highlighting his improved form and stamina.