With Yutaka Take aboard, Sugar Kun, half-brother of seven-time G1 winner Kitasan Black, surged up the steep incline of Tokyo Racecourse to win the G2 Aoba Sho. Breaking away from the field, he held off the late challenge from Shonan la Punta from the outside and secured victory with ease, even though just by a head margin. This royally-bred colt, debuted in February and has now earned a G1 Japanese Derby starting berth in just two months and four career starts.

Take expressed his genuine anticipation for the upcoming challenge, stating, "To debut in February and produce such a performance in just two months... He's definitely a horse that deserves to compete in the Derby." While Sugar Kun had already passed his barrier exam last fall, his connections opted for patience.

Trainer Shimizu, who also handled the career of his illustrious brother, praised his physical prowess, noting, "Given his limited racing experience, he already possesses significant stamina." He further emphasized Sugar Kun's easygoing nature, reminiscent of his elder sibling.

Despite Kitasan Black's disappointing 14th-place finish in the Derby after placing third in the Satsuki Sho, his nine-year-younger brother is poised to challenge the longstanding jinx of "Derby victory for graduates of the Aoba Sho."