Trainer Kodai Hasegawa readies Namura Clair for back-to-back G3 Keeneland Cups
Thursday, 22 August, 2024 20:20
Trainer Kodai Hasegawa on Namura Clair
Preparations are on track for the G3 Keeneland Cup, with no disruptions reported. Last year's champion, Namura Clair, had her final workout on the Sapporo Racecourse turf course on the 21st, showcasing smooth acceleration and clocking an impressive time. Both trainer Kodai Hasegawa, who was in the saddle, and regular jockey Suguru Hamanaka, who watched from the stands, felt confident about her chances for a repeat victory for the five-year-old mare.
While this race is considered a prep for bigger targets, there are no complaints about her condition. Namura Clair moved from Hakodate to Sapporo last week and breezed effortlessly over the turf course under Hasegawa. She stayed well-balanced, with her head low and back springing smoothly. Her stride was steady, and she quickened effortlessly when lightly urged in the final stages, clocking 5 furlongs in 63.5 seconds, with splits of 34.5 and 11.1 seconds.
Hasegawa, who gauged her feel from the saddle, remarked, "She felt great. There was a lot of ease in her movement, and we were able to adjust her as planned. Although she switched back to her right lead at the end, likely due to being a bit fresh, she seems close to where she was last year." Hamanaka, observing from the stands, also expressed confidence, saying, "She moved well. With this, I can ride with confidence."
Namura Clair has already proven herself as a top contender in the sprint division, with four graded stakes wins at 1200 meters and G1 finishes of fifth, second, third, and second. However, that elusive G1 victory has remained out of reach. "Something is missing that's preventing us from winning, but I'd rather not say what it is," Hasegawa admitted. Unlike last year, when she returned from a G1 Victoria Mile, this year, she's had a proper rest following her second-place finish in the G1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen, a calculated move aimed at finally capturing the top prize.
"The staff, the farm, everyone involved, horse and human alike have worked so hard. I want to see them all rewarded. I want to cry tears of joy with everyone." This Hokkaido race is crucial in setting the stage for a fruitful autumn. They aim to head into the season with the best possible momentum by achieving a repeat victory.
While this race is considered a prep for bigger targets, there are no complaints about her condition. Namura Clair moved from Hakodate to Sapporo last week and breezed effortlessly over the turf course under Hasegawa. She stayed well-balanced, with her head low and back springing smoothly. Her stride was steady, and she quickened effortlessly when lightly urged in the final stages, clocking 5 furlongs in 63.5 seconds, with splits of 34.5 and 11.1 seconds.
Hasegawa, who gauged her feel from the saddle, remarked, "She felt great. There was a lot of ease in her movement, and we were able to adjust her as planned. Although she switched back to her right lead at the end, likely due to being a bit fresh, she seems close to where she was last year." Hamanaka, observing from the stands, also expressed confidence, saying, "She moved well. With this, I can ride with confidence."
Namura Clair has already proven herself as a top contender in the sprint division, with four graded stakes wins at 1200 meters and G1 finishes of fifth, second, third, and second. However, that elusive G1 victory has remained out of reach. "Something is missing that's preventing us from winning, but I'd rather not say what it is," Hasegawa admitted. Unlike last year, when she returned from a G1 Victoria Mile, this year, she's had a proper rest following her second-place finish in the G1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen, a calculated move aimed at finally capturing the top prize.
"The staff, the farm, everyone involved, horse and human alike have worked so hard. I want to see them all rewarded. I want to cry tears of joy with everyone." This Hokkaido race is crucial in setting the stage for a fruitful autumn. They aim to head into the season with the best possible momentum by achieving a repeat victory.
Article Creds:Daily Sports