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| Staff Writer |
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Makoto Tabata, the assistant trainer of one of the strongest contenders for the US$20m The Saudi Cup, has an unconventional path that led him to where he is today. He holds a special place in his heart for Lemon Pop, the big chestnut who was recently awarded the Japan Racing Association's best dirt horse of 2023, and whose journey he has been a part of every step of the way.
Tabata's love for horse racing began during his teenage years when he started to ride in the equestrian club of his university. He then worked as a racing journalist at Oi Racecourse before moving to Hokkaido, Japan's largest breeding area, to work among the training staff at Big Red Farm. It was there where he gained exposure to stallions like Gold Ship and Benbatl, who are now standing at the farm.
Eventually, Tabata started working at the JRA Miho training centre, and in 2018, he became part of the team when Hiroyasu Tanaka opened his yard. It was in 2020 that Tabata met Lemon Pop, a strong 2YO colt who would become another turning point in his life.
"He had strong hind-quarters even at two, looking like volley balls in his hips," Tabata recalled.
"When I rode him, his back was so flexible. I thought I was sitting on a very rich and comfortable cushion!"
Over the course of the past four years, Lemon Pop has had a remarkable campaign, achieving the feat of winning both of the JRA's championship dirt races in a single season, making him the fourth horse to do so.
"In his wonderful career, the two biggest memories I have with him were an allowance race on his return from a year layoff in 2021, in which he finished second but it was just thrilling he was coming back to racing, then the local Group One Mile Championship Nambu Hai last October.
"He proved his class again, putting his disappointing Golden Shaheen run behind him by leading all the way to finish by a distance."
In December's Champions Cup at Chukyo, Lemon Pop faced 1800m for the first time after a record margin win. He confirmed his status as a dirt champion by winning by a length and a quarter from Wilson Tesoro. Currently, he is training well at King Abdulaziz racecourse.
"Having a good friend Ushba Tesoro with him from home, he has been very relaxed and getting used to the new surroundings here," Tabata said. "They both enjoy picking grass together.
"This is his first race up in the season and that must be a big advantage for him as he had a tight schedule in Dubai last year."
Tabata, given his former position, is happy to be in this particular role.
"I used to be a media person, so I am very excited to have interviews anytime!" he said.
"Lemon Pop is in great form with a perfect preparation. I understand it will be a very competitive, against all the top dirt horses from the world and the pace is expected to be high, but I believe he is going to run his race."