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| Staff Writer |
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One of Japan's leading contenders for the Gr.1 Saudi Cup is expected to perform well despite a mid-flight incident. The race, which boasts a US$20 million prize, is one of the most valuable in the world. Last year, Japan emerged victorious with Panthalassa, and this year the country is fielding five runners, including Derma Sotogake.
The 4YO Mind Your Biscuits colt was injured in his right eye during his flight to Riyadh, casting doubt on his participation in the race. However, trainer Hidetaka Otonashi has confirmed that the injury hasn't affected the horse's performance and he's expected to run well on Saturday.
Derma Sotogake is seeking to turn the tables on White Abarrio, the winner of the Breeders' Cup Classic, in which Derma Sotogake finished second. The striking gray has been partly bought by Prince Faisal, who will be sporting the same colors as Mishriff, the winner of the 2021 Saudi Cup. If all goes well, Derma Sotogake may compete in the Gr.1 Dubai World Cup next month.
"I've been wanting to train for these kinds of people all my life and having this kind of horse—this is what excites me," Dutrow said. "If he's on his game and runs his race, then he's going to be tough to beat.
"I came here a couple of times and they were talking about putting up a big race here, and now we're at a point where we can come and try to win it, so it's unbelievable. This is a US$20 million race and we're all in, we're taking this race very seriously. I'd rather win this than any race in the world."