Japan Cup DIRT and TURF

[Horny Harry]

Training Reports
12th November 2002
TRAINING REPORT (2)
22nd running of the Japan Cup
3rd running of the Japan Cup Dirt
Training report of foreign entrees
At Shiroi Quarantine Stables:
FOREIGN ENTRIES-JAPAN CUP DIRT:
ABREEZE (USA, bay g. 7yo)
"Everything has gone well up to now and his training at Shiroi went smoothly thanks to the excellent training grounds. We were taken good care of."
"He's in fine condition but we have much respect for the Japanese horses so I'm not saying that we'll win easily, but I do think he stands a good chance."
"Besides his gallop at Nakayama on the 19th, he'll do what will be similar to what we've done here at Shiroi"
(comments taken from Neal McLaughlin-Rep. for trainer)
ABREEZE left the quarantine stables at 10:50 a.m. for the International Stables at Nakayama Racecourse and arriving at 11:30.
At Nakayama Racecourse, International Stables:
"We hand-walked him but he seems fine. I had a look at the dirt tracks here at Nakayama-the sand looks relatively shallow so I presume we'll have a fast paced race. I'm looking forward to it."
(comments taken from Neal McLaughlin-Rep. for trainer
FOREIGN ENTRIES-JAPAN CUP:
At Shiroi Quarantine Stables:
STORMING HOME (ENG, colt c. 4yo)
"He's eating all his feed, so I think he's gotten over much of the tiredness from the trip but we'll just hand-walk him and let him relax for today."
"Storming Home can be mischievous at times but has a very friendly character"
(comments taken from Geoffrey Snook -exercise rider)
STORMING HOME was weighed at the quarantine stables on November 12
Weight: 450 kg.
TRAINING REPORT (1)
22nd running of the Japan Cup
3rd running of the Japan Cup Dirt
Training report of foreign entrees
FOREIGN ENTRIES-JAPAN CUP:
STORMING HOME was the first among the foreign entrees registered for the 22nd running of the Japan Cup to arrive in Japan. He flew into Narita Airport on the 11th of November at 12:40 then transported by horse van to Shiroi Quarantine Facility located within the JRA Horse Racing School Premises, leaving Narita at 2:20 p.m. on the same day and arriving safely at: Shiroi at 3:30 p.m.
STORMING HOME (ENG, colt c. 4yo)
"The trip took 24 hours via Anchorage"
"He seems a little tired after the long journey, so we'll take it easy for a few days and start training from there."
(comments taken from Geoffrey Snook -exercise rider)

[Horny Harry]

Agnes Flight (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/01.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc01.jpg
Air Shakur (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/02.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc02.jpg

[Horny Harry]

American Boss (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/03.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc03.jpg
Eishon Preston (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/04.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc04.jpg
Fusaichi Run Heart (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/05.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc05.jpg
Jungle Pocket (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/06.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc06.jpg

[Horny Harry]

Magnaten (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/07.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc07.jpg
Narita Top Road (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/08.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc08.jpg

[Horny Harry]

No Reason (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/09.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc09.jpg
Symboli Khris S (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/10.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc10.jpg
T M Ocean (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/pnjjc/11.html)
http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/images/pnjjc/jc11.jpg

[Horny Harry]

http://www.jair.jrao.ne.jp/library/courses/jra00201.jpg
Nakayama Racecourse

[specialweek]

The track looks nothing like the pic because of the extended racing this year due to Fuchu's closure.
It is still ok but very patchy on the inside.
I will the track thurs to have a close look.　

[Horny Harry]

Thanks for that SW...here are the latest British Markets
Japan Cup
3-1 Symbol Kris S, 5-1 Bright Sky, Jungle Pocket, 6-1 Golan, 8-1 Narita Top Road, 10-1 Eishin Preston, No Reason, 12-1 Storming Home, 14-1 T M Ocean, Sarafan, Falbrav, 16-1 Air Shakur, Magnaten, 20-1 Bar

[Horny Harry]

courtesy of aapracingandsports.com.au
Monday, 18 November 2002: Hong Kong racing boss Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges has intervened to ensure Hong Kong’s evergreen stayer Indigenous starts in the Japan Cup this weekend.
Trainer Ivan Allan had threatened to withdraw Indigenous after
Japan's Ministry of Agriculture confiscated the horse's feed following his arrival in Tokyo.
However Engelbrecht-Bresges, the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s director of racing, instigated talks with the Japan Racing Association that has resulted in a solution to Allan’s feed problem.
The JRA has arranged for the same brand of feed to be imported direct from the US, an arrangement that Allan has agreed to.
"Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges approached me to reconsider letting Indigenous compete in the Japan Cup," Allan said.
"I have agreed to accept the JRA's efforts. Hopefully, Indigenous will be able to run a respectable race."
Meanwhile Frankie Dettori has taken the Japan Cup ride on Italian star Fabrav.
Trained by Italian Luciano d'Auria, Fabrav finished unplaced behind Marienbard in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp last month.

[specialweek]

If your having a bet do not take EP, he will not be in the race.

[Ant]

specialweek, what is the latest on indigenous? is he running or not running? news on this side say he is all set and ready to go.

[specialweek]

Ant he will run but I don't think the trainer will be talking to the press. I will be at the press conference tomorrow morning so I'll be interested to see you the spokesman will be.
It is last race so I'm sure he will go around.
Are you still arriving Friday and did you get tickets etc?

[Ant]

hi specialweek, thx for the info. Travel agent yet to confirm my hotel booking, otherwise all set. I will be in Friday afternoon, out monday night. My keitai in Japan 090-84309701, only works while i'm in japan, fell free to call me.

[Richard]

Hi guys:-
Sorry for the interuption. As you see, the current Japan Cup 2002 (turf) is on the agenda of Singapore meeting, some of our forum mates will like to know the development of the horses in Japan. Can anyone out there in Japan plse update us on the current status on the entries of horses on favorites, going, information of each horses etc. Appreciate forum mates (fm Japan) could able to enlighten us on what is the latest news over your end. Million thanks. best regards :D :rolleyes: :)

[specialweek]

Richard,
The final field,16 runners will be decided tomorrow and the barrier draw at 2.pm.
I will be at the track in the morn but not sticking around for the draw.
All foreign runners will start, it's just a matter of which Japanese horses get a run in both the dirt Cup and the JC.
Ant,
I will be on track both days and will need a beer after the dirt race Saturday but if I have time I'll call your mobile at around 1 pm or so, if not too busy.

[Richard]

Hi Specialweek:-
A million thanks for your prompt reply. Hope to see more of your posting on the Japan cup 2002 (Turf). Singapore is eager to know the latest news. If you need any information on Singapore or Malaysia races, I will try to source and support your curiosty. Anyway, take care and enjoy yourself in Japan. Best regards.

[Richard]

World Series Racing Championship - 13th Leg
Japan Cup - 24 November 2002
--------------------------------------------------
Form Guide – Last 4 Performances
Going: F=Fast, G=Good, GF=Good to Fast, S=Soft, YL=Yielding
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Bright Sky (IRE) Country/Region : FR International Rating : 120
Age : 3 Colour : chestnut Sex : filly
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Wolfhound/Bright Moon (Alysheba)
Trainer : Elie Lellouche
Race Performance : Starts : 10 1st : 5 2nd : 3 3rd : 1 Total Earnings: US$518,913
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (length)
06.10.2002 G1 Longchamp 2000 G 12 1 2:02.30 123 D Boeuf 4
15.09.2002 G1 Longchamp 2400 G 11 3 2:26.00 126 D Boeuf 3-1/2
09.06.2002 G1 Chantilly 2100 G 15 1 2:07.60 126 D Boeuf 2
19.05.2002 G1 Longchamp 2000 G 12 2 2:03.00 126 D Boeuf neck
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Falbrav (IRE) Country/Region : ITA International Rating : 118
Age : 4 Colour : bay Sex : colt
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Fairy King/Gift of the Night (Slewpy)
Trainer : Luciano D'Auria
Race Performance : Starts : 15 1st : 7 2nd : 4 3rd : 3 Total Earnings: US$747,878
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (length)
06.10.2002 G1 Longchamp 2400 G 16 9 2:26.70 131 O Peslier 5-3/4
15.09.2002 G2 Longchamp 2400 G 5 3 2:29.00 128 D Vargiu 1
16.06.2002 G1 San Siro 2400 G 7 1 2:24.90 132 D Vargiu 3
12.05.2002 G1 Capannelle 2000 S 9 1 1:57.80 128 D Vargiu 1-1/4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Golan (IRE) Country/Region : UK International Rating : 127
Age : 4 Colour : bay Sex : colt
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Spectrum (IRE)/Highland Gift (IRE) (Generous)
Trainer : Sir Michael Stoute
Race Performance : Starts : 10 1st : 4 2nd : 2 3rd : 1 Total Earnings: US$1,623,376
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (length)
26.10.2002 G1 Arlington Int'l 2400 YL 8 6 2:30.14 126 K Fallon 5-3/4
20.08.2002 G1 York 2100 G 7 2 2:08.70 131 K Fallon 1/2
27.07.2002 G1 Ascot 2400 GF 9 1 2:29.70 133 K Fallon Head
25.11.2001 G1 Tokyo 2400 F 15 6 2:23.80 121 J P Murtagh 4-3/4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Indigenous (IRE) Country/Region : HK International Rating : 115
Age : 9 Colour : brown Sex : gelding
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Marju (IRE)/Sea Port (IRE) (Averof (IRE))
Trainer : Ivan W Allan
Race Performance : Starts : 57 1st : 12 2nd : 6 3rd : 9 Total Earnings: US$5,610,934
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (length)
20.10.2002 HKG3 Sha Tin 1600 GF 14 14 1:34.70 133 O Doleuze 7-1/2
19.05.2002 HKG1 Sha Tin 2400 S 11 10 2:35.00 126 W C Marwing 30-1/2
11.05.2002 G1 Kranji 2000 G 13 3 2:01.30 126 O Doleuze 4-1/2
21.04.2002 G1 Sha Tin 2000 G 14 3 2:02.50 126 F Coetzee 3/4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Irresistible Jewel (IRE) Country/Region : IRE International Rating : 111
Age : 3 Colour : bay Sex : filly
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Danehill/In Anticipation (Sadler's Wells)
Trainer : Dermot Weld
Race Performance : Starts : 8 1st : 3 2nd : 1 3rd : 2 Total Earnings: US$272,659
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (length)
06.10.2002 G1 Longchamp 2000 G 12 2 2:02.30 123 P J Smullen 4
15.09.2002 G3 Curragh 2000 GF 8 1 2:08.70 125 P J Smullen 1/2
21.08.2002 G1 York 2400 G 11 5 2:26.70 120 P J Smullen 6-1/2
14.07.2002 G1 Curragh 2400 S 12 8 2:37.40 126 P J Smullen 18-1/4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Sarafan (USA) Country/Region : USA International Rating : 118
Age : 5 Colour : bay Sex : gelding
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Lear Fan/Saraa Ree (Caro(IRE))
Trainer : Neil Drysdale
Race Performance : Starts : 28 1st : 7 2nd : 7 3rd : 3 Total Earnings: US$1,294,460
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (length)
03.11.2002 G3 Santa Anita Park 1300 F 10 4 1:12.26 122 C Nakatani 1/2
06.10.2002 G1 Santa Anita Park 2000 F 6 2 1:58.93 124 C Nakatani 1
17.08.2002 G1 Arlington Int'l 2000 F 9 2 2:02.94 126 C Nakatani Head
28.07.2002 G1 Del Mar 1800 F 6 1 1:46.77 117 C Nakatani 1-1/4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Storming Home (GB) Country/Region : UK International Rating : 121
Age : 4 Colour : bay Sex : colt
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Machiavellian (USA)/Try To Catch Me (Shareef Dancer (USA))
Trainer : Barry Hills
Race Performance : Starts : 18 1st : 5 2nd : 4 3rd : 3 Total Earnings: US$886,704
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (length)
19.10.2002 G1 Newmarket 2000 G 11 1 2:01.40 128 M Hills 1/2
04.10.2002 Listed Newmarket 2400 F 4 1 2:29.60 126 M Hills 6
13.09.2002 Listed Doncaster 2400 GF 7 3 2:30.70 127 M Hills 3-1/2
27.07.2002 G1 Ascot 2400 GF 9 6 2:29.70 133 M Hills 8-1/4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Jungle Pocket Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 117
Age : 4 Colour : bay Sex : colt
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Tony Bin (IRE)/Dance Charmer (Nureyev)
Trainer : Sakae Watanabe
Race Performance : Starts : 11 1st : 5 2nd : 3 3rd : 2 Total Earnings: US$5,619,822
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
28.04.2002 JPN1 Kyoto 3200 F 11 2 3:19.50 128 Y Take 0.0
17.03.2002 G2 Hanshin 3000 F 9 2 3:07.90 128 F Komaki 0.3
25.11.2001 G1 Tokyo 2400 F 15 1 2:23.80 121 O Peslier 0.0
21.10.2001 JPN1 Kyoto 3000 F 15 4 3:07.20 126 K Tsunoda 0.4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Symboli Kris S (USA) Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 119
Age : 3 Colour : dark bay or brown Sex :colt
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Kris S./Tee Kay (Gold Meridian)
Trainer : Kazuo Fujisawa
Race Performance : Starts : 9 1st : 5 2nd : 2 3rd : 2 Total Earnings: US$2,834,532
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
27.10.2002 JPN1 Nakayama 2000 F 18 1 1:58.50 123 Y Okabe 0.1
22.09.2002 JPN2 Hanshin 2000 F 16 1 1:59.10 123 Y Okabe 0.4
26.05.2002 JPN1 Tokyo 2400 F 18 2 2:26.20 126 Y Okabe 0.2
27.04.2002 JPN2 Tokyo 2400 F 18 1 2:26.40 123 Y Take 0.4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : No Reason Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 115
Age : 3 Colour : bay Sex : colt
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Brian's Time/Ambrosine (Mr. Prospector)
Trainer : Yasuo Ikee
Race Performance : Starts : 7 1st : 3 2nd : 1 3rd : 0 Total Earnings: US$1,406,610
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
20.10.2002 JPN1 Kyoto 3000 F 18 Fall 3:05.90 126 Y Take -
22.09.2002 JPN2 Hanshin 2000 F 16 2 1:59.10 123 Y Take 0.4
26.05.2002 JPN1 Tokyo 2400 F 18 8 2:26.20 126 M Ebina 0.7
14.04.2002 JPN1 Nakayama 2000 F 18 1 1:58.20 126 B Doyle 0.3
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Narita Top Road Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 117
Age : 6 Colour : chestnut Sex : horse
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Soccer Boy/Floral Magic (Affirmed)
Trainer : Yoshio Oki
Race Performance : Starts : 28 1st : 8 2nd : 6 3rd : 8 Total Earnings: US$7,968,147
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
27.10.2002 JPN 1 Nakayama 2000 F 18 2 1:58.50 128 H Shii 0.1
06.10.2002 JPN 2 Kyoto 2400 F 8 1 2:23.60 130 H Shii 0.4
28.04.2002 JPN 1 Kyoto 3200 F 11 3 3:19.50 128 K Watanabe 0.7
17.03.2002 G2 Hanshin 3000 F 9 1 3:07.90 130 K Watanabe 0.3
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Magnaten (USA) Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 113
Age : 6 Colour : bay Sex : gelding
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Danzig/Magic Night (Le Nain Jaune (FR))
Trainer : Kazuo Fujisawa
Race Performance : Starts : 27 1st : 11 2nd : 1 3rd : 1 Total Earnings: US$2,381,897
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
06.10.2002 G2 Nakayama 1800 F 9 1 1:46.10 126 Y Okabe 0.3
28.07.2002 JPN3 Niigata 1600 F 14 1 1:31.80 123 Y Okabe 0.2
14.07.2002 Open Niigata 1400 F 18 1 1:19.00 126 Y Okabe 0.0
02.06.2002 JPN1 Tokyo 1600 F 18 8 1:33.30 128 Y Okabe 0.5
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : American Boss (USA) Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 110
Age : 7 Colour : bay Sex : horse
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Kingmambo/Redeemer (Dixieland Band)
Trainer : Fuyuki Tago
Race Performance : Starts : 39 1st : 8 2nd : 4 3rd : 5 Total Earnings: US$3,559,899
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
03.11.2002 JPN2 Nakayama 2500 F 11 8 2:30.60 129 T Eda 1.5
06.10.2002 G2 Nakayama 1800 F 9 3 1:46.10 128 T Eda 0.4
22.09.2002 JPN2 Niigata 2200 F 11 10 2:11.70 128 T Eda 0.4
25.08.2002 JPN3 Niigata 2000 F 15 7 1:58.00 129 T Eda 0.7
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : T.M. Ocean Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 110
Age : 4 Colour : bay Sex : filly
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Dancing Brave/River Girl (Rivlia)
Trainer : Katsuichi Nishiura
Race Performance : Starts : 12 1st : 7 2nd : 0 3rd : 2 Total Earnings: US$3,548,777
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
27.10.2002 JPN1 Nakayama 2000 F 18 13 1:58.50 123 M Honda 1.0
18.08.2002 JPN2 Sapporo 2000 F 16 1 1:59.50 123 M Honda 0.2
23.12.2001 JPN1 Nakayama 2500 F 13 6 2:33.10 117 M Honda 0.4
11.11.2001 JPN1 Kyoto 2200 F 15 5 2:11.20 119 M Honda 0.1
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Air Shakur Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 114
Age : 5 Colour : dark bay or brown Sex : horse
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Sunday Silence/I Dreamed a Dream (Well Decorated)
Trainer : Hideyuki Mori
Race Performance : Starts : 18 1st : 4 2nd : 6 3rd : 1 Total Earnings: US$4,535,544
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
27.10.2002 JPN1 Nakayama 2000 F 18 4 1:58.50 128 Y Take 0.3
23.06.2002 G1 Hanshin 2200 F 12 4 2:12.90 128 K Desormeaux 0.3
25.05.2002 JPN2 Chukyo 2000 F 18 2 1:58.30 130 Y Take 0.2
31.03.2002 JPN2 Hanshin 2000 F 14 2 1:59.10 130 M Demuro 0.4
--------------------------------------------------
Horse : Agnes Flight Country/Region : Japan International Rating : 102
Age : 5 Colour : chestnut Sex : horse
Sire/Dam (Sire of Dam) : Sunday Silence/Agnes Flora (Royal Ski)
Trainer : Hiroyuki Nagahama
Race Performance : Starts : 11 1st : 4 2nd : 2 3rd : 0 Total Earnings: US$2,475,328
Recent Four Races :
Date GRD(GRP) Racecourse Dist.(m) Going Field Place WinningTime Weight(lbs) Jockey Margin (sec)
27.10.2002 JPN1 Nakayama 2000 F 18 15 1:58.50 128 M Katsuura 1.3
01.04.2001 JPN2 Hanshin 2000 F 14 10 1:58.40 130 H Kawachi 1.3
17.02.2001 JPN2 Kyoto 2200 F 14 2 2:12.30 126 H Kawachi 0.1
26.11.2000 G1 Tokyo 2400 F 16 13 2:26.10 121 H Kawachi 1.5
--------------------------------------------------
Hope the above information could be of much help to forum mates in SIN/MAL. Happy reading and please feel free to comments on which horse will win the Japan Cup 2002. Best regards :D :p :)

[Horny Harry]

From: InJapan2 Sent: 21/11/2002 11:09 AM
2/1 for Symboli is crazy. He definitely has a good chance, but that is ridiculous.
Jungle Pocket for me. I am biased - as he has always been a favourite of mine, but he should be too good for this lot. Narita Top Road has never got near him (so the form around him from the Emperor's Cup probably won't hold up), and with Manhattan Cafe out of action, he is by far the best horse in the race. The worry is Nakayama (he is unbeaten at Tokyo where the JC is usually run - and there is no TM Opera O in this field), but Take knows how to ride him now, and he did run a good 3rd in the Japanese equivalent of the guineas here over 2000m. That day he stumbled at the start losing 4 or 5 lengths - circled the field but died on his run. Even then he finished only a couple of lengths behind Agnes Tachion, who wouls be odds on in this field if he was not a stallion now. He is first-up, but on fire - and from memory he has never missed a place first up.
TM Ocean is the danger. She has the best formlines around her of the rest. Ran a great race in the Arima Kinen last year at Nakayama, then thrashed all the males first up this year in Sapporo. The horse that ran second that day was my tip for last week's mile - Tokai Point (I stood him out, but not from EP), which won and will now head for the HK mile. She lost 26 kilos travelling to Tokyo last time, and was gone just after they hit the straight, but this time they have kept her in Tokyo - which is what they did for Sapporo too, and if she is OK this time, she is the only one that can worry JP in an evenly run race.
If its not an evenly run race - look out for Magnaten. He will lead (to partially answer your question, Viscount) and will quite possibly get an easy time in front. He beat home a few good horses last start over 1800m at the same track, but is by Danzig and has never won past 1800m - so should be a good price due to distance concerns.
American Boss is always a good roughie at Nakayama, Kris S looks like a horse able to make his own luck and has Olivier on him this time (getting ready for a trip to Europe next year - thats why Okabe got dumped I think), NTP has Shii on board now, so can't just write him off anymore, but it would be uunthinkable for him to turn the tables on JP.
The best of the foreigners seem to be Indigenous. Even though he is 9 now - he is yet another horse to finish in front of that "best horse in the world" - Grandera, and has run well in Japan before. This track may suit his running style too - judging from his HK effort behind EP and Agnes Digital. The only other one is Falbrav - mainly because he has great times on fast ground. As usual, the best rated (?) horse in the field is one that has been well and truly thrashed by a Japanese horse - Golan, and once this race is over, I am sure the connections of JP will be regretting his injury earlier this year even more (considering that he was aimed at the King George and a horse that he had left in his wake won it).
The Japan Cup dirt - pathetic. They should introduce a Last 4 betting ticket here - just box the foreigners! Gold Allure and Admire Don. Both brilliantly bred - and both great performers -not only on dirt, but on turf too. A race in two - the winner will be carrying my money in Dubai next year.

[Horny Harry]

From: Wailin' Wayne Windbag Sent: 21/11/2002 10:29 AM
From what I can discern, cady, this track and distance will not suit Golan as much as last years Cup. I really cannot imagine him winning, but you already know that. Can you? I suppose if it got wet enough, anythings possible His only hope is a pretty wet track.. I have never heard of a wet Japan Cup track. Has it ever happened?
Symboli Kris S looks close to a good thing to me, unless someone with more familiarity with the form can show me I've got it badly wrong.
It's not a race of great interest to me. There are no Aussies to distort the tote market for me, and I don't think they show it on tele anymore, like that always used to.

[imaufo]

From: specialweek Sent: 21/11/2002 4:23 PM
I did post a lengthy review but for some reason it got dumped.
So this time brief.
Speed in the race from Magnaten, Storming Home, American Boss.
Can't have JP for two reasons, 7 months away from racing, RH track.
Go on recent form..........SKS, NTR, Air Shakur (depends on Hoop), Bright Sky if it rains, Golan.
Having sad that I believe SKS should be 7/2 or better.
Magnaten wont run the distance even though the track is in good nick on the rail where he'll be all the way
Dirt race.......Kanetsu Fleuve, Gold Allure, Admire Don, Preeminence, Double Happiness.
Abreeze and Reba's Gold ( owned by the guy who hosts JEOPARDY in the US) should go very fast early and if lucky one of them may steel the race.
Should have barrier draw soon.

[imaufo]

From: specialweek Sent: 21/11/2002 7:51 PM
Japan Cup Barrier Draw
Japan Cup (November 24, Nakayama Racecourse, 2200m)
1 1 Falbrav 4c L.Dettori 57 L.D'auria Scuderia Rencati SRL
1 2 Indigenous 9g E.Saint-Martin 57 I.Allan Y.H. Pang
2 3 Golan 4c K.Fallon 57 Sir M.Stoute Exors of the late Lord Weinstock
2 4 Irresistible Jewel 3f P.Smullen 53 D.Weld Moyglare Stud
3 5 American Boss B 7h T.Eda 57 Fuyuki Tago K.Abiru-Fudosan
3 6 Agnes Flight 5h H.Goto 57 Hiroyuki Nagahama Takao Watanabe
4 7 Symboli Kris S 3c O.Peslier 55 Kazuo Fujisawa Symboli Stud
4 8 Sarafan 5g C.Nakatani 57 N.Drysdale G. Tanaka & F.Sekiguchi Limited Partnership
5 9 No Reason 3c M.Ebina 55 Yasuo Ikee Shinji Maeda
5 10 Jungle Pocket 4c Y.Take 57 Sakae Watanabe Katsumi Yoshida
6 11 T.M.Ocean 4f M.Honda 55 Katsuichi Nishiura Masatsugu Takezono
6 12 Bright Sky 3f T.Thulliez 53 E.Lellouche Ecurie Wildenstein
7 13 Narita Top Road 6h H.Shii 57 Yoshio Oki Hidenori Yamaji
7 14 Strorming Home 4c M.Hills 57 B.Hills Maktoum al Maktoum
8 15 Magnaten 6g Y.Okabe 57 Kazuo Fujisawa T.Komai
8 16 Air Shakur 5h K.Tanaka 57 Hideyuki Mori Lucky Field Co., Ltd.
[ November 21, 2002, 06:08 PM: Message edited by: imaufo ]

[imaufo]

From: cady Sent: 21/11/2002 8:41 PM
Symboli Kris S followers might like to know that Windbag's pal Paul Haigh has declared him a good thing. Yikes!!
I'm coming around to Golan again. Trainer's won it twice, he's still relatively fresh this term, and despite what the cringers might say, you can only win a King George after a 250 day lay-off if you're one hell of a serious racehorse. Golan is, and that's been obvious since his 2000 Guineas romp last year. Can go out in a blaze of glory.
Is Indigenous better than Montjeu too, in Japan2? Silly question - he's heaps better...

[Provider]

http://men.photoforum.org/image/photoforum8280.jpg
This place is ... :D cool :D

[Horny Harry]

Thanks Provider...hope you drop in often with plenty to say!!!!!!!!
:p :)
From: InJapan2 Sent: 22/11/2002 11:33 AM
By the way, Fine Motion will run in the Arima Kinen. This info is from the stable and has not been announced yet.

[Horny Harry]

Sarafan draws post eight in Japan Cup field of 16
SARAFAN
Benoit & Associates photo
http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/todaysnews/photos/Sarafan266.jpg
Gary Tanaka’s and Fusao Sekiguchi’s Sarafan—the lone American-based entry—drew post eight for Sunday’s $3,966,666 Japan Cup (Jpn-G1) at about 1 3/8 miles on the turf at Nakayama racecourse.
Two primary contenders, English-based multiple Group 1 winner Golan (Ire) and defending Japan Cup champion Jungle Pocket drew posts three and ten, respectively, for the race that has become one of the world’s richest and prestigious. The Japan Cup also is the next-to-last race in the World Series Racing Championship.
Sarafan, a five-year-old Lear Fan gelding trained by Neil Drysdale, has not won since capturing the Eddie Read Handicap (G1) at Del Mar on July 28, but he finished second in both the Arlington Million Stakes (G1) and Clement L. Hirsch Memorial Turf Championship Stakes (G1).
“His condition is very good,” exercise rider Robert Guest said. “We only worked him lightly at Shiroi [in Japan] and he’s progressed well.”
Golan, who finished sixth in the Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) on October 26 and sixth in last year’s Japan Cup, has had an abbreviated schedule this season. He began the year with a win over Nayef in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (Eng-G1) at Ascot on July 27, but 3 1/2 weeks later, the tables turned as Nayef defeated him in the Juddmonte International Stakes (Eng-G1) at York. A four-year-old son of Spectrum who won the 2001 Two Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1), Golan finished 5 ¾ lengths behind winner High Chaparral (Ire) in the Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) for trainer Sir Michael Stoute.
Jungle Pocket won honors in 2001 as Japan’s Horse of the Year after his Japan Cup victory, but he is winless in two starts this season, finishing second in both efforts, and he has not raced since April 28. A four-year-old son of Tony Bin, Jungle Pocket has never finished worse than fourth in 11 career starts and has earned five wins and $5,584,623.
Japan Cup Draw...CLICK HERE (http://www.jra.go.jp/JapanCup/news/1121.html#n1121-2)

[Horny Harry]

Reba’s Gold ready to contest Japan Cup Dirt
Two American-based horses will carry the United States flag in the $2,066,666 Japan Cup Dirt at about 1 1/8 miles on Saturday, with Reba’s Gold breaking from post seven and Abreeze from post 11 at Nakayama racecourse.
Creston Farms decided to give the Far East a try after Reba’s Gold won the Steinlen Handicap on November 10 at Hollywood Park. The five-year-old son of Slew o’ Gold has three wins and has placed four times in ten starts this season and is seven-for-28 in his career with $511,922 in earnings.
"He’s recovered from his last race and he’s in good condition," trainer Dan Hendricks said. "We’ve done what has to be done, so we hope he can run his best race."
Regular rider David Flores will be in the irons aboard Reba’s Gold.
Alvin Haynes’s, Letty McLaughlin’s, and Neal McLaughlin’s Abreeze, whose career began in England before stops in the United Arab Emirates and the U.S., has enjoyed the best season of his career this year at age seven. The gelded son of Danzig won three straight allowance races in New York before finishing second to Evening Attire in the Saratoga Breeders’ Cup Handicap (G2). In his last two starts, he finished fourth and fifth, respectively, in the Kentucky Cup Classic Handicap (G2) and Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1).
"He’s very fit and getting himself into a good condition for the race," said Neal McLaughlin, who is the brother of trainer Kiaran McLaughlin.

[Horny Harry]

Go Frankie!
http://newsfeed.tcm.ie/images/people/frankiedettoriPA.jpg
Frankie Dettori has been booked to ride Falbrav for fellow Italian trainer, Luciano d’Auria, in the Japan Cup at Nakayama next Sunday, it has been confirmed today.
The four-year-old colt finished unplaced behind the Dettori-ridden Marienbard in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Lucien Barriere following an encouraging third to Aquarelliste in the Prix Foy.
“He ran a very good trial, but he was too far out of his ground in the Arc when they turned for the home. But he’ll love the firm going,” said Dettori’s agent Ray Cochrane today.
Dettori will have a total of eight rides at the two-day meeting at Nakayama next weekend including the Japan-trained Eagle Cafe in the Japan Cup Dirt.
The five-year-old was third to Dano-Mast in the Prix Dollar at Longchamp last month.
“That’s a good ride. He ran a good race during the Arc weekend,” said Cochrane.
Dettori is also set for a busy December with important meetings at Riyadh and Hong Kong.
He partners Prix du Cadran winner Give Notice in the Riyadh Gold Cup on December 13, the five-year-old stayer having been sold recently.
“A member of the Saudi royal family has bought Give Notice out of John Dunlop’s for the Riyadh Gold Cup. Frankie won the Sagaro Stakes at Ascot on him. He’ll be a good ride round there,” said Cochrane.
“From there he will fly to Hong Kong for as well as partnering Grandera and Noverre for Godolphin he has picked up the ride on Slap Shot in the Hong Kong Sprint.
“She was the filly that was just touched off by Continent in the Abbaye when her rider thought she had won.”
MEANWHILE...back at the ranch
ALL ABOUT FALBRAV
http://fantaippica.noze.it/img/cavalli/bay.jpeg
FALBRAV (IRE, bay c. 4yo)
Left Shiroi 12:15 p.m.
Arrived Nakayama 12:49 p.m.
"His form is very near to how he was when he won the Gran Premio di Milano."
"I saw the tracks here today and it's nice and flat so it will suit Falbrav very much-he didn't like the course at the Arc de Triomphe because there was so much ups and downs. The width of the course and the turns are of no problem."
"Falbrav will travel in mid-pack and then come out from about two to four furlongs out."
(comments taken from Luciano D'auria - Trainer)
"He's usually very quiet and easy to handle but he hates going up the ramp into the dark when loading him into the horse van and he was especially very angry today after getting off. We'll concentrate on letting him get relaxed and won't be doing any strong canters until the race. We'll be working him on the turf tomorrow."
(comments taken from Marco Botti - exercise rider)

[Horny Harry]

Training Reports
GOLAN (IRE, bay c. 4yo) Left Shiroi 11:30 a.m.
Arrived Nakayama 12:15 p.m.
"I was very pleased with her work at Shiroi.
"I ring my boss (trainer) every day and discuss his work for the next day, so I don't know what he'll be doing tomorrow-he'll be galloping before the race at some point though."
"Neither the trainer nor the jockey will be here for tomorrow's press conference."
(comments taken from James Scott-groom)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IRRESISTIBLE JEWEL (IRE, bay f. 3yo) Left Shiroi 11:20 a.m.
Arrived Nakayama 11:55 a.m.
"She's in good condition and we plan to do some light canter with her tomorrow but I'll have to talk to the trainer first-I'd like to work him on the turf."
"The jockey will probably come here with the trainer on Friday but I'm not sure if we'll be galloping her then-we might."
(comments taken from Patrick O'Brien-groom)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SARAFAN (USA, bay g. 5yo) Left Shiroi 11:05 a.m.
Arrived Nakayama 11:45 a.m.
"His condition is very good. We only worked him lightly at Shiroi and he's progressed well. We plan to gallop him over 3/4 of a mile tomorrow-the jockey will be coming on Saturday."
(comments taken from Robert Guest - exercise rider)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOREIGN ENTRIES-JAPAN CUP DIRT:
REBA'S GOLD (USA, bay h. 5yo) Left Shiroi 11:05 a.m.
Arrived Nakayama 11:45 a.m.
"We haven't done any fast work with him at Shiroi and we have no plans to do any here. He's raced on November 10th so he doesn't need any gallops."
"Because he had just came off from his last race and then had a long journey coming here, he was a little tired at first but he's alright now and was very fresh this morning. He's in his best condition."
"The jockey won't be riding him until the race. I'll be riding him until then."
(comments taken from Dan Hendricks-trainer)

[Horny Harry]

Nine local hopes will be attempting to turn back the challenge of seven overseas invaders in Sunday’s Group 1 Japan Cup at Nakayama Racecourse. The host country will be looking to Tenno Sho (G1) Symboli Kris S. to retain the prestigious trophy for Japanese trained runners for the fifth consecutive year.
The Neil Drysdale-trained Sarafan, winner of the Eddie Read H. (G1) for high profile owners Gary Tanaka and Fusao Sekiguchi, will be representing the U.S. From Europe comes the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Golan a duel group 1 winning son of Grand Lodge. Fellow British-trained runner Storming Home, is racing in great heart, coming off a Group 1 win in the Champion Stakes at Newmarket.
Australian’s are only too aware of the genius of Dermot Weld and the success of multiple Austalian champion stallion Danehill. The duel Melbourne Cup winning trainer and the Coolmore Stud champion are represented by lightly raced four-year old mare Irresistible Jewel, which two starts ago won the Aga Khan Studs Blandford Stakes (G3) before finishing second to the French trained Bright Sky. A French Oaks (G1) winning daughter of Wolfhound Bright Sky will also take her place in the Japan Cup. The Italian trained Falbrav, a 4yo son of Fairy King, a dual Group 1 winner this year in his home country, and the Hong Kong idol Indigenous completes the overseas contingent.
“Weather is going to play a big part as showers are predicted on Saturday” said Rodney Paine who has kindly supplied a formguide for the A$3.6 million feature race that will sadly once again be without a runner from Australia or New Zealand.
Japan Cup 2002 Nakayama Racecourse-2200m
Gate & Horse No./Country / Jockey / Weight / Trainer / Age / Sire / Dam
1.Falbrav (Italy) L Dettori 57kg L D'Auria 4c Fairy King / Gift of the Night
Has won 7 from 15, including four in a row this year, culminating in a 3 length win in the Gr 1 "Gran Premio Di Milano" (2400m) at San Siro in June. Last start was a disappointing 9th (btn 5-3/4 lgths) to "Marienbard" in the "Prix Arc De Triomphe" (2400m) at Longchamps. Italy's "favourite son", Lanfranco Dettori has his first ride on the horse today, but would still need to improve on his last effort.
2. Indigenous (HK) E Saint-Martin 57kg 9c I Allan Marju / Sea Port
The Veteran of the field is attempting his third Japan Cup, so he knows his way from Narita Airport. Earlier in the year ran 3rd in two Group 1 International races, the "Queen Elizabeth Stks" at Shatin & the "Singapore International Cup" at Kranji both 2000m. Form since has been ordinary, including a 10th over 2400m (btn 30 lgths) in May & a last start 14th over 1600m in October, both at Shatin. Has a habit of bobbing up in the "big ones" as evidenced by his 2nd in the 1999 Japan Cup, but will find these to slick today.
3. Golan (ENG) K Fallon 57kg 4c Sir M Stoute Spectrum / Highland Gift
6th in last years Cup. At his first run since then, was a game win in the Gr 1 "King George & Queen Elizabeth Stks" (2400m) at Ascot in July, defeating "Nayef". Last start, never in the race when 6th (btn 5-3/4 lgths) to "High Chaparral" in the Breeder's Cup Turf (track yielding) at Arlington Park. Needs firm ground & will be better suited here, than the tight turning Chicago track. English 2000 Guineas winner & Derby runner-up, last year. Trainer Stoute, is trying to do what he did with 1997 Cup winner, "Pilsudski", which is, try & win the Japan Cup at his horses' last career start. One of the best foreign hopes.
4. Irresistible Jewel (IRE) P Smullen 53kg 3f D Weld Danehill / In Anticipation,
Bypassed the Breeders Cup to concentrate on this. Only lightly raced, with 3 wins from 8 starts. Followed a 5th (btn 6 lgths) in the "Yorkshire Oaks", with a 1/2 length win in the Gr 3 "Aga Khan Stks"(2000m) at the Curragh in September. Last start, 2nd (btn 4 lgths) to "Bright Sky" in the Gr 1 "Prix de l' Opera"(2000m) at Longchamp. Big job to turn the tables on that filly here, but the Weld Stable, is one of the hottest yards in the World at the moment, so she wouldn't be here to view Mt Fuji.
5. American Boss (JPN) T Eda 57kg 7h F Tago King Mambo / Redeemer
10th in last years Cup. Best run & only placing since then was 3rd (btn 3 lgths) behind "Magnaten" in the Gr 2 "Mainichi Okan"(1800m) at Nakayama, in early October. A Group 3 performer, totally outclassed in this race. The only runner wearing Blinkers, so at least he will easy to spot.
6. Agnes Flight (JPN) H Goto 57kg 5h H Nagahama Sunday Silence / Agnes Flora
2000 Japan Derby winner, whom unfortunately broke down in March, last year. At only start after 18 months off, was always well back when 15th (btn 8 lgths) in the Gr 1 "Emperors Cup"(2000m) behind "Symboli Kris S" here, last month. Hard to win a Japan Cup on that preparation.
7. Symboli Kris S (Jpn) O Peslier 55kg 3c K Fujisawa Kris S / Tee Kay
5 wins, 2 2nds, 2 thirds from just 9 starts. 2nd in the Japan Derby (2400m) in May. Last start given the run of the race & became the first 3-yr-old since "Bubble Gum Fellow" to win the traditional lead-up race, the Gr 1 "Emperors Cup" over 2000m on this course in late October. Again drawn to get a lovely run & could give Peslier his 2nd consecutive Cup & Japan's leading Trainer, Kazuo Fujisawa his 1st. Deserves to be one of the favourites.
8. Sarafan (USA) C Nakatani 57kg 5g N Drysdale Lear Fan / Saraa Ree
Recorded his first Group 1 win in the "Eddie Read Hcp"(1800m) at Delmar in July, with 53kgs defeating "Beat Hollow". In August, was 2nd (btn hd) to that horse in the Gr 1 "Arlington Million" over 2000m. 2 starts ago was 2nd (btn 1 lgth) in the Gr 1 "Clement L Hirsch Memorial" (2000m) behind "The Tinman" at Santa Anita. Looks be better suited under Handicap conditions.
9. No Reason (JPN) M Ebina 55kg 3c Y Ikee Brians Time / Ambrosine
Won the 2000 Guineas at odds of 50/1 on this course in April. Followed that up with an 8th to "Tanino Gimlet" in the Japan Derby. Last start, was an odds-on favourite in the Gr 1 Japanese St Leger, but Jockey Yutaka Take was unceremoniously dislodged 30m after the start, with the horse trailing the field around riderless. Did run 2nd(btn 2.5 lgths) to "Symboli Kris S" in September but the lack of a hard last run, could work against him.
10. Jungle Pocket (JPN) Y Take 57kg 4c S Watanabe Tony Bin / Dance Charmer
2001 Japan Derby & Japan Cup winner, back to defend his title. Had 2 starts since, including a 2nd (btn hd) in the Gr1 Autumn "Emperors Cup"(3000m) to "Manhattan Cafe" in April, when he pulled up lame after the race. He has reportedly been going well at trackwork & Japan's leading Jockey,Yutaka Take has taken the mount. No horse has ever won 2 Japan Cup's so for this horse to win it after 7 months off, would be an almighty training performance.
11. T.M Ocean (JPN) M Honda 55kg 4f K Nishiura Dancing Brave / River Girl
Nice filly whom, last year won the 3rd leg of the fillies Triple Crown, the Gr 1 "Shuka Sho" over 2000m at Kyoto. 2 starts this year, have registered a Gr 2 win & a last start 13th (btn 6 lgths) to "Symboli Kris S" in the "Emperors Cup". Likes to race forward but this distance & opposition is a worry.
12. Bright Sky (FRA) T Thulliez 53kg 3f E Lellouche Wolfhound / Bright Moon
Has the fine record of 5 wins from 10 starts. In June, won the Gr 1"French Oaks" over 2100m, by 2 lengths. Topped off her preparation for this race with a 4 length win, over "Irresistible Jewel" in the Gr 1 "Prix de l' Opera" over 2000m on October 6th at Longchamps. Is very tough for a 3-yr-old filly to win this race, but this "Madame", gives France there best chance since "Le Glorieux" in 1987, to do it.
13. Narita Top Road (JPN) H Shii 57kg 6h Y Oki Soccer Boy / Floral Magic
One of Japan's most consistent horses in recent years. Japan Derby runner-up in 1999 & 3rd in last years Cup. In early October easily won the Gr 2 "Kyoto Daishoten" over 2400m. Last start came from 10th on the turn for 2nd (btn 3/4 lgth) to "Symboli Kris S" in the "Emperors Cup" over 2000m. Form is better this year, than last & look for him to be getting home strongly. Dislikes wet tracks.
14. Storming Home (ENG) M Hills 57kg 4c B Hills Machiavellian / Try To Catch Me
In July was 6th (btn 9 lgths) to "Golan" in the Gr 1 "King George Stks" over 2400m at Ascot. Since then connections applied a gear change (side nose band) which has resulted in 2 wins. Last start won the Gr 1 "Champion Stks" over 2000m at Newmarket. Contrary to his name likes to race on the pace & believe me there will plenty of it, in this race.
15. Magnaten (JPN) Y Okabe 57kg 6g K Fujisawa Danzig / Magic Night
One of Japan's most improved horses & has won his last three. In late July, sizzled over the "Mile" course in 1.31.8 secs winning the Gr 3 "Seihin Memorial" by 1 1/2 lgths at Niigata. Last start, led all the way to win the "Mainichi Okan" (1800m) on this course, defeating "Eishin Preston" by 2 lengths. Is untried at the distance but his Dam ran 2nd to "Golden Pheasant" in the 1991 Japan Cup. Will have no choice but to press forward from the 15 barrier & there is no better Jockey in Japan at rating a horse, than Yukio Okabe.
16. Air Shakur (JPN) K Tanaka 57kg 5h H Mori Sunday Silence / I Dreamed a Dream
Has ability, but has been something of an enigma horse not winning for over 18 months. In June he was 4th(btn 2 lgths) in the Gr 1 "Takarazuka Kinen" over 2200m at Hanshin. At only start since then, came from well back & never got a clear crack at them when again 4th, (btn 2 lgths) to "Symboli Kris S" in the "Emperors Cup" (2000m) here, last month. From the outside gate will drop out & it would be no surprise to see him in the finish, at nice odds.
By: Mark Smith - Friday, 22 November 2002
Jungle Pocket peaking ahead of Japan Cup
Symboli Kris S continues to be touted as tops by the Japanese press with Jungle Pocket surging into the headlines following his workout yesterday at the Ritto Training Centre. Jungle Pocket, winner of last year's Japan Cup is paired with Japanese star jockey Yutaka Take this year. The 4yo worked sharply up the hill twice yesterday clocking 51.1 and 52.4 seconds over 800m of wood chip.
Jungle Pocket is taking on the Japan Cup following seven months off. ''He's looking really good,'' said a very satisfied trainer Sakae Watanabe. ''He's put on muscle and is looking very supple,'' he added. Though it was the first long spell for Jungle Pocket and he previously has failed to turn in better than a second or third-place finish following shorter spells of about three months, Watanabe was unconcerned. ''He has never been in condition this good,'' he said.
At Nakayama, all foreign-based contenders for the Japan Cup turned out for their morning paces and exercise rider Delphine Carles took out French hope Bright Sky out in an easy canter over dirt. Owner Alec Wildenstein was on hand for the work at Nakayama. ''She looks very well in herself,'' he said after watching the filly do an easy canter on the turf. ''We're very pleased with her. She has travelled well and she has eaten well.'' As to what he thought their chances were, Wildenstein replied confidently: ''Whoever finishes in front of us will win.''
A very happy-looking Indigenous was allowed to gallop over turf. The Hong Kong hopeful is said to be eating and feeling well. ''He travelled very well today. He hadn't galloped in a long time as he wasn't able to let out at the Shiroi track, which is very small,'' said rider So Wai-yin. Trainer Ivan Allan, he said, had given the go-ahead to breeze fast today.
Golan also opened up a bit over turf looking well on his first time out on the Nakayama course. Rider Roy Carter said he was pleased with the 4yo. ''He has travelled well and looks well,'' Carter said. Groom James Scott agreed: ''He seemed to be enjoying himself." Jockey Kieren Fallon, who was on hand for work but did not ride, likened the Nakayama track to Ascot, over which Golan won the King George this year. ''I don't see a problem. Hopefully we'll get a good draw.'' Fallon described Golan as a ''very intelligent, very laid-back horse.'' He added: ''Other than Kazuo Fujisawa's horse, I'd be pretty confident. I think Symboli Kris S will be very hard to beat.'' Trainer Michael Stoute is scheduled to arrive in Japan this afternoon.
The English runner Storming Home did an easy canter over turf as did Ireland's Irresistible Jewel. Storming Home's rider Geoffrey Snook said the 4yo had arrived in Japan ''very, very tired, but after a couple days' rest was back.'' Snook said they had given the horse long steady canters. ''I don't think he needs a lot of fast work. Michael Hills arrives tomorrow and maybe he'll give him a good blow out.''
HKJC News
By: Jo Adams - Friday, 22 November 2002
Japan Cup -Final declarations
JAPAN CUP - 2200 M Turf Horse Region Wt (lb) Age/Sex Form(Rev order) Jockey Trainer
Falbrav ITY 126 4c 931 L Dettori L d'Auria
Indigenous HK 126 9g 003 E Saint-Martin I W Allan
Golan UK 126 4c 621 K Fallon M Stoute
Irresistible Jewel IRE 117 3f 215 P Smullen D Weld
American Boss JPN 126 7h 830 T Eda F Tago
Magnaten JPN 126 6g 111 Y Okabe K Fujisawa
Agnes Flight JPN 126 5h 002 H Goto H Nagahama
Air Shakur JPN 126 5h 442 K Tanaka H Mori
Symboli Kris S JPN 121 3c 112 O Peslier K Fujisawa
Sarafan USA 126 5g 422 C Nakatani N Drysdale
No Reason JPN 121 3c F28 M Ebina Y Ikee
Jungle Pocket JPN 126 4c 221 Y Take S Watanabe
T.M. Ocean JPN 121 4f 016 M Honda K Nishiura
Bright Sky FR 117 3f 131 T Thulliez E Lellouche
Narita Top Road JPN 126 6h 213 H Shii Y Oki
Storming Home UK 126 4c 113 M Hills B Hills
By: Jo Adams - Friday, 22 November 2002

[Horny Harry]

NEWS FLASH
EAGLE CAFE WINS JAPAN CUP DIRT
http://newsfeed.tcm.ie/images/people/frankiedettoriPA.jpg
[ November 23, 2002, 03:01 PM: Message edited by: Horny Harry ]

[lepper]

As expected, Red Sun almost got run over by the ambulance. Officially listed as "distanced".

[breezin']

Here are the final results in the Japan Cup Dirt:
Time or margin after horse name:
1. Eagle Cafe, 1:52.2
2. Regent Bluff, 1 length
3. Admire Don, neck
4. Preeminence, 1 1/4
5. Gold Allure, neck
6. Toho Emperor, 1/2
7. Smart Boy,3
8. Hagino Hi Grade, 1/2
9. Reba's Gold, 1 3/4
10. Be My Nakayama, 1 3/4
11. Kanetsu Brave, neck
12. Abreeze, 3 1/2
13. Double Happiness, neck
14. Red Sun, distanced
15. Al Aran, distanced
16. Pappus, 6

[hobbes]

fabrav with dettori on top wins. double for dettori.

[Horny Harry]

http://newsfeed.tcm.ie/images/people/frankiedettoriPA.jpg
ITS OFFICIAL>>>>FRANKIE IS A FREAK!
No star jumps from Frankie in Japan? I would have thought that Frankie would have jumped Extra high after that one!

[poledancer]

Were HK premature in declaring "weighed in" after the Japan Cup with the protest still in progress?

[Horny Harry]

The vino will be flowing freely in Italy tonight as Lanfranco Dettori capped off a memorable weekend in Japan when he guided the Italian trained colt Falbrav to victory in the Group 1 Japan Cup.
http://www.racenet.com.au/dettori_japanCup_dirt.jpg
The four year-old son of Fairy King defeated fellow invader, the U.S trained Sarafan by a nose, with local hope Symboli Kris S. a neck back in third.
Falbrav (Fairy King), opened his campaign this year with three consecutive wins in his homeland including the Premio Presidente della Repubblica and Gran Premio di Milano before was beaten just a length by Aquarelliste and Anabaa Blue in the Prix Foy (G2) at Longchamp.
The start before Falbrave headed to Japan he was a well-beaten ninth in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (G1) won by Marienbard.
Dettori had the day before won the Japan Cup Dirt (G1) on the locally trained Eagle Café (Gulch), which defeated 123-1 outsider Regent Bluff (Park Regent) and Admire Don (Timber Country).
It was the second win this year for Eagle Café who had won the Tanabata Sho (G3) at Fukushima before campaigning in Europe, running third at his previous start in the Prix Dollar at Longchamp.
By: Mark Smith - Sunday, 24 November 2002

[jb]

Just when i started to think the Japs may have the best horses in the world , the foreigners run the Q .
Neither horse looked to have outstanding form & Indigenous was not far away....makes me think the form is not that strong ?
I didn`t think the Italians had any good horses but this proved that wrong .
Frankie surely must be the best ?

[Scarper]

IMO it was the weakest japanese feild in recent times by some way. Still i do think Symbloi cris looks world class, and will be back stronger next year as a 4yo.

[jrb]

It certainly looked a weak renewal on paper and so it proved. It must be remembered though that when Japanese 3yos have won the Cup, it has usually been the best of his year who has done so. Symboli Kris S is not the best 3yo of his year - Tanino Gimlet was clearly superior, but was out of contention due to injury. Arguably, Fine Motion is also better, but didn't run. Agnes Digital also didn't take part, and Jungle Pocket was coming off a long lay off and hasn't been as good this year as he was last.
Still, it has to be said that, while his Italian form has been impeccable, Falbrav was found wanting in the Arc and Sarafan has US turf form, which is not terribly worthwhile these days - look at the BC Turf results over the past couple of years. That this pair quinellaed the biggest turf race for the year in Japan is not a great advertisement for the strength of the locals.
[ November 25, 2002, 07:07 AM: Message edited by: jrb ]

[Horny Harry]

http://racing.scmp.com/english/images/news/lead25112002b.jpg
Falbrav and Sarafan may contest HKIR
Indigenous runs with merit in Japan Cup
Falbrav just after passing the post under Frankie Dettori, claiming the race from Sarafan and Symboli Kris S.
HKJCnews
Hong Kong racing fans had every reason to be pleased with the outcome of the Gr.1 Japan Cup at Nakayama today with the winner Falbrav and runner-up Sarafan seemingly on course for a rematch in the Gr.1 Hong Kong Cup next month.
And there was the usual Japan Cup sight of the Sha Tin-based veteran Indigenous earning connections another payday with a very creditable sixth placed effort, beaten just two and a half lengths.
"I have spoken to the owner and trainer of Falbrav and to the owner and trainer of Sarafan and they indicated that, at this stage, both horses will come to Hong Kong for a rematch, which would be of tremendous interest," said Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, the Hong Kong Jockey Club's Executive Director of Racing. Engelbrecht-Bresges added that the connections of the other HK International Races contenders that contested the Japan Cup would wait and see how their horses come out of Sunday's race before fixing on final decision regarding Hong Kong. No such doubts concern Indigenous, who set himself for a remarkable sixth straight Hong Kong Vase participation with a solid run in today's 2200m test at Nakayama.
On ground officially rated "Firm," Ivan Allan's gelding travelled about five lengths off the pace on the fence down the back straight in a rather slowly run race that was clocked at 2 min 12.2 sec. He improved to be only about two lengths down in third position off the home turn, and though outpaced by the principals, he stayed on well.
Jockey Eric Saint-Martin later remarked: "It was a comfortable race but he hung out [in the home stretch] then I tried to make him straight and use the whip but as he is a 9yo he couldn't have done more to go forward." Owner Louis Pang was satisfied with the outcome saying: "I'm very happy with Indigenous' run. He has won us more money over a trip that was a bit short of his best and on ground that was too quick for him." Indigenous earned connections HK$1.23 million in his third appearance in the race. Last year he ran seventh, beaten five lengths, and in 1999 he was a length and half runner-up to Special Week.
Engelbrecht-Bresges concurred: "Once again Indigenous has Hong Kong proud by beating much younger proven Gr.1 performers. The ground was firm and I think he was feeling it in the straight, but I hope the old man can reproduce this form in the Hong Kong Vase next month." The Italian-trained, Frankie Dettori-ridden, Falbrav won by a nose but connections had to survive an objection from Sarafan's rider Corey Nakatani to the winner, for leaning on him in the closing stages. The objection was overruled. Race favourite Symboli Kris S finished third.
The Japan Cup past winners with winning times and riders at Tokyo over 2,400 meters turf:
2001 JUGLE POCKET(by Tony Bin) 2:23.8 O.Peslier
2000 T.M.OPERA O(by Opera House) 2:26.1 R.Wada
1999 SPECIAL WEEK(by Sunday Silence) 2:25.5 Y.Take
1998 EL CONDOR PASA(by Kingmambo) 2:25.9 M.Ebina
1997 PILSUDSKI(by Polish Precedent) 2:25.8 M.Kinane
1996 SINGSPIEL(by In the Wings) 2:23.8 L.Dettori
1995 LANDO(by Acatenango) 2:24.6 M.Roberts
1994 MARVELOUS CROWN(by Miswaki) 2:23.6 K.Minai
1993 LEGACY WORLD(by Mogami) 2:24.4 H.Kawachi
1992 TOKAI TEI-O(by Symboli Rudolf) 2:24.6 Y.Okabe
1991 GOLDEN PHEASANT(by Caro) 2:24.7 G.Stevens
1990 BETTER LOOSEN UP(by Loosen Up) 2:23.2 M.Clarke
1989 HORLICKS(by Three Legs) 2:22.2 L.O'Sullivan
1988 PAY THE BUTLER(by Val de I'Ome) 2:25.5
C.McCarron
1987 LE GLORIEUX(by Cure the Blues) 2:24.9 A.Lequeux
1986 JUPITER ISLAND(by St.Paddy 2:25) P.J.Eddery
1985 SYMBOLI RUDOLF(by Partholon) 2:28.8 Y.Okabe
1984 KATSURAGI ACE(by Boysie Boy) 2:26.3 K.Nishiura
1983 STANERRA(by Guillaume Tell) 2:27.6 B.Rouse
1982 HALF ICED(by Hatchet Man) 2:27.1 D.MacBeth
1981 MAIRZY DOATES(by Nodouble) 2:25.3 C.Asmussen
[ November 25, 2002, 07:34 AM: Message edited by: Horny Harry ]

[imaufo]

Dettori doubles down in Japan Cup
By BARBARA BAYER
Staff writer
FUNABASHI, Chiba Pref. -- Minutes stretched into what seemed like hours as the two horses circled waiting for the decision, both jockeys certain they had won. When the numbers flashed on the infield board, it was Falbrav by a nose and what Frankie Dettori later described as one of his greatest moments.
The Italian-bred Falbrav, running under his country's colors, edged Sarafan of the United States for the win in the 22nd Japan Cup, Italy's first victory in the prestigious international invitational.
Race favorite Symboli Kris S. finished third a neck back with Magnaten in fourth. For Dettori, it was his second Grade 1 win in just 24 hours.
"I don't feel anything anymore, I'm numb," said the 32-year-old ace, who also won the Japan Cup Dirt race here Saturday.
It was a hair-raising finish as Falbrav (which in Italian means "be good") fought it out with Symboli Kris S. Just as he gained the upper hand, Sarafan swept up on the inside.
"Falbrav didn't have time to fight him back but lucky for me the line was there," said Dettori, who also joked, "I hope next time I can win by more distance because it's not good for the heart."
Falbrav, ridden by Frankie Dettori, forged to the lead in deep stretch, overtaking the front-running Magnaten, then drifted in steadily as Sarafan and Corey Nakatani charged toward the front from the inside. Sarafan came out slightly and the two horses bumped several times in the last desperate final strides before the wire. It was a head-bobbing finish, with Falbrav getting the nod.
As Sarafan and Falbrav were circling on the turf track awaiting the result of the photo, Nakatani called out to trainer Neil Drysdale to claim foul. Drysdale rushed into the steward's room to lodge the appeal, then returned a few minutes later, shaking his head in disappointment. "It's impossible," he said to Sarafan's principal owner, Gary Tanaka. "They'd already made up their minds while I was trying to show them (on the patrol films) what happened. They said Corey came out, but he had room, there was nobody there, and he was entitled to the room. The other horse came in on us and boom, boom, boom, boom. But they said it was equal."
"My horse ran a great race, but the stewards did a bad job," Nakatani said. "He (Falbrav) bumped me four times, and I was just cruising up to pass him. They made up their mind before I got to talk with them. I don't believe Dettori ever made an attempt to straighten out his horse. I did."
Of the other foreign contenders, 9-year-old Indigenous finished sixth, England's Golan was seventh, Irresistible Jewel from Ireland 11th, France's Bright Sky 13th and Storming Home from England 15th.
Falbrav, by Fairy King, out of Gift of the Night, is now 8 for 16. The 4-year-old home-bred is trained by Luciano D'auria and owned by Scuderia Rencati SRL.
The Japan Times: Nov. 25, 2002
[ November 25, 2002, 08:02 AM: Message edited by: imaufo ]

[Handy Harry]

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The Italian-trained Falbrav parading in the paddock before the Japan Cup.



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Hong Kong Jockey Club Chairman Mr Ronald Arculli (centre), Chief Executive Mr Lawrence Wong (right 2), Mrs Wong (left 3) with Mr Pang Yuen Hing (right 3), Mrs Pang (left 2), and Hong Kong Horse Owners Association Chairman Mr Frederick Wai Chee Leung (left 1) in the parade ring.


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An excited Frankie Dettori after winning the Japan Cup.



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Falbrav just after passing the post under Frankie Dettori, claiming the race from Sarafan and Symboli Kris S.

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The Hong Kong Jockey Club delegation toasting at the post-race reception.

[Handy Harry]

By Ken Nishida, DVM
Chief Handicapper, JRA


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Year's Japan Cup

This year's Japan Cup was run on Nakayama Racecourse's 2,200-meter outer track due to refurbishing work at Tokyo Racecourse. Seven foreign horses were entered, including Golan (IRE, by Spectrum, IRE) and Bright Sky (IRE, by Wolfhound, USA). The lineup of nine Japanese horses, seven of which had won domestic GI events, was led by fall Tenno Sho winner Symboli Kris S. (USA) and defending champion Jungle Pocket.

The rain held off and the race commenced to a roar of encouragement from the mass of spectators that shook the slightly chilly, clear skies. Japanese horse Magnaten (USA, by Danzig, USA) took the lead, accompanied by Irresistible Jewel (IRE, by Danehill, USA), Golan, and Indigenous (IRE, by Marju, IRE), and the race proceeded at a slow-paced, leisurely tempo. Falbrav (IRE, by Fairy King, USA, out of Gift of the Night, USA), Symboli Kris S., in pursuit after a slow start, and Storming Home (GB, by Machiavellian, USA) followed behind, chased from the rear by Sarafan (USA, by Lear Fan, USA), Narita Top Road (by Soccer Boy), and Bright Sky. Jungle Pocket brought up the rear.

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Nakayama Racecourse's stands and homestretch.

U.S. horse Sarafan responded to jockey Corey Nakatani's whip coming into the homestretch, giving hot pursuit from the inside when Falbrav, well-placed to seize an opportunity, broke through and away from the group as if sprung from a trap, and the two horses neared one another several times as they sped toward the finish line. Following the posting of the decision that the photo finish had resulted in Falbrav taking first by a nose, second-place finisher Sarafan's trainer protested and an inquiry was held, but the final standings were confirmed. Symboli Kris S. had come up from the outside, but, stung by his slowness out of the gate, finished third while Magnaten flew from behind to grab the fourth spot and Jungle Pocket put on a good burst from the rear to finish fifth. Indigenous was sixth and Golan seventh. This was jockey Frankie Dettori's second victory after the one on Singspiel (IRE, by In the Wings, GB) by a nose over Japanese horse Fabulous la Fouine (FR, by Fabulous Dancer, USA) in the 16th running in 1996, and it appeared that he was even happier to have won this time with a horse from his own country, Italy. This was the first win by a horse from Italy and horses from nine countries have now won the Japan Cup. The provisional rating for the winning horse was 121 pounds.

The race once again confirmed that the ability to adapt to a Japanese track, on which it is easy to run, and speed are the most important factors for foreign horses. Falbrav has been given the right to enter the Arima Kinen (47th, The Grand Prix, GI), the dream race held at the end of the year, and we would by all means like him to come back to Japan.

This Year's Japan Cup Dirt

This race has attracted attention for last year's win by Kurofune (USA, by French Deputy, USA). This year's race was held over a distance of 1,800 meters. Lacking any noteworthy top horses like last year's Lido Palace (CHI, by Rich Man's Gold, USA), the regrettably somewhat lackluster lineup included Abreeze (USA, by Danzig, USA) among the four foreign horses.

The race began with Ar Alan (by Arcangues, USA) in the lead, pursued by Abreeze and Kanetsu Fleuve (by Paradise Creek, USA). Contender Gold Allure (by Sunday Silence, USA) kicked into gear in the backstretch, followed by favorite Admire Don (by Timber Country, USA) and the pace picked up at the third turn, led by the two 3-year-olds who had attracted notice.

Gold Allure maintained the lead heading into the homestretch, with Admire Don keeping pace on the outside. Just when it seemed the fight would be decided between the two horses, Eagle Cafe (USA, by Gulch, USA) who had been marking time directly behind, adroitly broke through and away from the inside. Regent Bluff (by Park Regent, CAN) charged up from the outside, catching Admire Don at the finish to take second as Gold Allure ran out of kick and fell to fifth, overtaken by Preeminence (by Afleet, CAN) as well.

The foreign horses finished out of the running and Reba's Gold (USA, by Slew'o Gold, USA) was the highest placer, in ninth. The winning horse's 116-pound provisional rating fell far short of the previous year's ranking.

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Falbrav (IRE, by Fairy King, USA)

Winning four races in two days, Dettori collected prize money in excess of 400 million YEN and his horsemanship impressed Japanese racing fans. It is easy to mouth the words, "race without spoiling the horse or taking a detour," but I believe that we were again given a demonstration of racing fundamentals. Young Japanese jockeys have undoubtedly already firmly taken to heart the details of Dettori's races and the service-oriented spirit he exhibited.

The 2002 Japan Cup and Japan Cup Dirt were both rewarding, splendid races decided by narrow margins. I hope that many top horses and jockeys from around the world will come to Japan and enliven the two races again next year.



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