First Force and 22-year-old jockey Taisei Danno achieved a massive upset on the big stage to take the G1 Takamatsunomiya Kinen on Sunday. Heavy ground conditions and inclement weather did not help the well-supported horses in the feature race. First Force returned to the winner's circle as the 31/1 winner.

Taisei Danno produced his mount between horses in the home straight and guided First Force from the centre of the course at Chukyo. Namura Clair came home in second and Travesura finished third.

Danno showed his appreciation in a post-race interview, saying: "I am filled with gratitude to the owner and trainer Nishimura for allowing me to ride this horse." He reflected, "The turf conditions were not great alongside the rail so I think starting from outside worked in our favour. First Force responded to me with power and strength. Also, I want to acknowledge that the interference we caused with Aguri was my own fault."