Team Durezza ready for historic battle in G1 International Stakes at York
Wednesday, 21 August, 2024 18:10
Durezza (Photo: Satoshi Hiramatsu)
On the day before his challenge in the G1 International Stakes, Japan's Durezza had a schooling session at York Racecourse, the site of his upcoming race in the UK. Trainer Tomohito Ozeki observed, "Although he was a bit nervous, he managed the paddock and course inspection without becoming overly agitated."
Before arriving in York, Durezza had been training at Newmarket, where he had also remained calm. "He has a generally laid-back personality, which is one of the reasons I felt he would be well-suited for an international campaign," Ozeki explained. His judgment is backed by extensive experience with overseas races, having previously campaigned horses in France, Hong Kong, Dubai, and more.
"While it's my first time in the UK, there's no doubt that the strategies we've developed from past international experiences have been beneficial in determining how to approach our goal within the limited time we have here. Unlike places like Dubai and Hong Kong, where all preparations must be done at the racecourse, Newmarket offers a variety of training surfaces, including uphill tracks, turf, and all-weather options, making adjustments easier."
Regarding the competition, the 61-kilogram weight, and the distance, Ozeki remained confident. "It's a G1 race, so we're prepared for tough competition. As for the weight, we knew about it in advance, so it's something we accept. Durezza carried 59 kilograms in the G2 Kinko Sho and still performed admirably, so I believe he'll be fine." He also welcomed the sixth barrier draw, saying, "Being drawn towards the middle, slightly inside, is favourable."
As he prepares for this what could be a historic race for Japan in Europe, Ozeki emphasized, "The UK is the birthplace of horse racing, and you can feel the history at both the racecourse and the training grounds. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to race here, and I hope we can deliver a result that reflects our pride as a G1 winner from Japan." With the pride of a G1 victory in Japan, Ozeki and Durezza aim to make a strong impact in this prestigious European contest.
Before arriving in York, Durezza had been training at Newmarket, where he had also remained calm. "He has a generally laid-back personality, which is one of the reasons I felt he would be well-suited for an international campaign," Ozeki explained. His judgment is backed by extensive experience with overseas races, having previously campaigned horses in France, Hong Kong, Dubai, and more.
"While it's my first time in the UK, there's no doubt that the strategies we've developed from past international experiences have been beneficial in determining how to approach our goal within the limited time we have here. Unlike places like Dubai and Hong Kong, where all preparations must be done at the racecourse, Newmarket offers a variety of training surfaces, including uphill tracks, turf, and all-weather options, making adjustments easier."
Regarding the competition, the 61-kilogram weight, and the distance, Ozeki remained confident. "It's a G1 race, so we're prepared for tough competition. As for the weight, we knew about it in advance, so it's something we accept. Durezza carried 59 kilograms in the G2 Kinko Sho and still performed admirably, so I believe he'll be fine." He also welcomed the sixth barrier draw, saying, "Being drawn towards the middle, slightly inside, is favourable."
As he prepares for this what could be a historic race for Japan in Europe, Ozeki emphasized, "The UK is the birthplace of horse racing, and you can feel the history at both the racecourse and the training grounds. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to race here, and I hope we can deliver a result that reflects our pride as a G1 winner from Japan." With the pride of a G1 victory in Japan, Ozeki and Durezza aim to make a strong impact in this prestigious European contest.
Article Creds:Daily Sports