Win Ares, set to debut in Saturday's Race 5 for newcomers at Fukushima, is a son of Win Bright, who impressively clinched back-to-back Hong Kong G1 titles in the Queen Elizabeth II Cup and Hong Kong Cup in 2019.

As a first-crop foal, trainer Yoshihiro Hatakeyama, who trained the sire, is fully invested in the colt's success. "He had high evaluations at the breeding farm. We extended his schedule as he didn't clock as expected, but we've been able to work him thoroughly as a result. His use of his body has significantly improved, and he progresses with each workout," Hatakeyama noted. With Masami Matsuoka, who rode Win Bright, in the saddle, Win Ares aims for a winning debut.