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| Staff Writer |
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The landscape of international horse racing continues to evolve, with Japanese trainers increasingly making their mark on the global stage. Among them, Takashi Saito stands out for his bold approach to international campaigning, exemplified by his decision to send both Killer Ability and Yamanin Sympa to contest the prestigious Bahrain International Trophy, worth US$1 million.
"Being able to travel with two horses is definitely better mentally than going with just one," Takashi reveals, highlighting the unique challenges of international campaigning. "There are many Japanese horsesthat will be travelling with me on trips to Dubai and Saudi Arabia. So I don't have to worry about just one horse .But this time in Bahrain, only my horses will be going. So I thought it would be better to go with two horses rather than one."
Takashi's strategic approach to international racing is built upon solid domestic success. Killer Ability, a 6YO son of Deep Impact, has proven his mettle with impressive performances in Japan's competitive racing circuit. His over US$2.5 million earnings reflect a consistency at the highest level few can match.
Yamanin Sympa, meanwhile, has carved out his own niche, particularly excelling in right-handed tracks, a characteristic that has influenced Takashi 's campaign planning. The 5YO has showcased his adaptability and stamina, qualities that will be crucial for success in Bahrain. His impressive record includes multiple graded stakes placings and earnings exceeding US$1.8 million.
The choice to target Bahrain wasn't made lightly. For Takashi, it represents a carefully calculated move based on both horses' specific attributes and previous international experience. Killer Ability's earlier forays into Middle Eastern racing, including a notable performance in the Neom Cup where he faced off against Spirit Dancer, have provided valuable insights into the challenges of competing abroad.
"Although Killer Ability lost to Spirit Dancer, the difference wasn't that big, so I think he could have made a comeback if the pace of the race or the racecourse had changed," Takashi reflects, his optimism tempered with pragmatism.
The experience gained from these international ventures has proven invaluable, informing Takashi's approach to preparation and timing. His decision to campaign both horses simultaneously in Bahrain represents a significant logistical undertaking, but is one he believes will pay dividends in terms of both practical support and emotional well-being for the horses.
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What sets Takashi's approach apart is his meticulous attention to horse temperament when planning international campaigns. “It is not suitable for horses that are too nervous," he explains. "It will be tough unless the horse has the mentality to withstand the changes in environment and long transportation.”
This philosophy has guided his selection process, with Killer Ability and Yamanin Sympa demonstrating the necessary mental fortitude for international travel. While many trainers might focus solely on physical ability, Takashi's holistic approach considers both mental and physical attributes. This methodology has served him well throughout his career.
His success rate with international raiders stands as a testament to this careful selection process. Both horses have shown the temperamental qualities he prizes: adaptability, resilience, and the ability to maintain their form despite the challenges of international travel.
Looking beyond Bahrain, Takashi's plans reflect a careful balance between ambition and pragmatism. While Killer Ability may be aimed at the Saudi Cup meeting, with its US$20 million prize purse looming as an attractive target, Yamanin Sympa's future likely lies back in Japan. This differentiated approach demonstrates Takashi's understanding that success in international racing requires more than just targeting prestigious prizes - it demands a deep understanding of each horse's individual needs and capabilities.
The impact of Japanese horses on the international racing scene has grown significantly in recent years, with victories at the highest level in destinations from Dubai to Paris. Takashi's campaign with this powerful duo represents another significant step in this global expansion, with both horses carrying the hopes of not just their connections, but the entire Japanese racing industry.
For Killer Ability, the Bahrain International Trophy represents a chance to build on his previous Middle Eastern experience and prove himself against top-class international competition. His running style, which combines tactical speed with stamina, makes him particularly well-suited to the demands of international racing, where pace scenarios can differ markedly from those typically encountered in Japan.
Yamanin Sympa, making his first venture outside Japan, brings fresh energy to the challenge, with his right-handed track preference making him particularly well-suited to the Bahrain layout. "That's why we decided to go there," Takashi explains, emphasising how course configuration played a crucial role in the decision-making process.
"I can't do anything about the other horses, so I just focus on getting my horse in the best condition possible," Takashi says, encapsulating the professional focus that has brought him to this point.
This pragmatic approach, combined with careful horse selection and strategic campaign planning, positions Takashi and his charges as serious contenders for international success. As Japanese racing continues to make its mark on the global stage, Takashi's methodical approach to international campaigning could well provide a blueprint for others to follow.
The Bahrain International Trophy will not just be another race for these Japanese challengers; it represents the culmination of careful planning, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed on the international stage. With two arrows in his quiver, Takashi stands ready to make his mark on yet another prestigious international prize, potentially adding another chapter to Japan's growing legacy of international racing success.