"He's in excellent shape" Team Prognosis confident ahead of the G2 Sapporo Kinen

Friday, 16 August, 2024 01:23

Prognosis (Photo: Takao Sonoda)

Prognosis, aiming for a back-to-back victory in the G2 Sapporo Kinen, completed his final track work on August 14th at Hakodate Racecourse. Despite the rain-soaked turf, the 6-year-old showed no signs of struggle, finishing his last furlong with an impressive burst of speed in 11.8 seconds.

As he hit the halfway point of the homestretch, Prognosis lowered his centre of gravity, his hindquarters engaging smoothly and deeply, allowing his stride to lengthen and his acceleration to become seamless.

His form remained high and balanced throughout the backstretch to the third corner, moving calmly without pulling on the reins. Rider Seiyama, who kept a firm hold on the reins, remarked, "It felt like my arms might come off. He's already in peak condition, so today was just a light workout. But in the stretch, I let him go as much as he wanted, and that was the result. He's in excellent shape." The final 3 furlongs were timed at 43.7 seconds, with the last furlong in 11.8 seconds, confirming the horse's superb condition.

This spring, Prognosis followed a similar path as last year, winning the G2 Kinko Sho and finishing second in the G1 Hong Kong QEII Cup. Last year, his final workout at Hakodate was more intense, but this year's preparations have been more relaxed, reflecting a greater degree of confidence. "Last year, we had to push him after he entered the stable, so his final track work at Hakodate was with another horse. But this time, it was just a confirmation. I still don't know where his ceiling is, and he continues to surprise me," Seiyama commented. Prognosis's body condition is ideal, with a healthy shine and tone. "He managed to endure the heat at Ritto Training Center well, as always. We can head into the race with confidence," the rider said proudly. With the stage set for a repeat victory, Prognosis's prospects look bright.

Article Creds:Daily Sports

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