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| Staff Writer |
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Two of Japan's top thoroughbreds are set to touch down in Australia on Monday, with their sights firmly set on Melbourne's premier spring races. Prognosis and Warp Speed are embarking on an ambitious raid, targeting the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup respectively.
The Mitsumasa Nakauchida-trained Prognosis is eyeing the Gr.1 Cox Plate at Moonee Valley, a race that has seen its fair share of international success in recent years. The 5YO entire has been turning heads in his morning gallops, with connections confident he can emulate the feats of previous Japanese raiders.
Prognosis brings strong form to the table, particularly through his close battles with last year's Cox Plate hero Romantic Warrior. Despite tough runs, including a gallant second in the Gr.1 QEII Cup in Hong Kong, the son of Deep Impact has consistently demonstrated his class and resilience.
With seven wins from 15 starts, including a hat-trick of Group Two triumphs on home soil, Prognosis is viewed as a leading Cox Plate contender. The booking of in-form jockey Damian Lane, who has enjoyed considerable success aboard Japanese runners, only strengthens his claims.
Meanwhile, the Noboru Takagi-trained Warp Speed is nominated for both the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups, with connections leaning towards the latter as their primary target. The 5YO entire has carved out a reputation as a formidable stayer, excelling over extreme distances.
Warp Speed's standout performance came with a solid fifth in the 3200m Gr.1 Tenno Sho (Spring), demonstrating his aptitude for the Melbourne Cup trip. The son of Kitasan Black has been specifically prepared for this Australian campaign, with Takagi leaving no stone unturned in his quest for success.
The Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup have both seen their fair share of international success stories in recent years. Japan's Delta Blues famously claimed the 2006 Melbourne Cup, while Lys Gracieux stormed to victory in the 2019 Cox Plate for the Land of the Rising Sun.
Other notable Cox Plate winners include Irish raider Adelaide in 2014 and the British-trained Sir Dragonet in 2020. The Melbourne Cup honour roll features a plethora of international names, with Rekindling (Ireland), Cross Counter (Great Britain), and Verry Elleegant (New Zealand) all etching their names into the race's storied history.
Both Prognosis and Warp Speed will enter quarantine upon arrival in Australia, adhering to strict biosecurity measures. The Japanese stars will be stabled at the Werribee International Horse Centre, a world-class facility designed to cater to the unique needs of travelling thoroughbreds.
Nakauchida expressed his excitement about the upcoming challenge, stating: "Prognosis has travelled well and we're looking forward to giving him his chance in the Cox Plate. It's a race we've long admired, and we believe he has the right profile to be competitive."
Takagi was equally bullish about Warp Speed's prospects, adding: "The Melbourne Cup has been our target for some time. He's a genuine stayer who we feel will relish the challenge of Flemington's famous two miles."
Racing enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the arrival of these Japanese raiders as their presence adds an intriguing international flavour to Australia's most prestigious races, with connections hopeful of adding their names to the illustrious honour rolls of the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup.