The unveiling ceremony for the statue of Contrail, donated by the horse's owner, took place on April 6th at Kyoto racecourse.

The president of North Hills, Mr. Koji Maeda, trainer Yuichi Fukunaga - the former jockey who teamed up with Contrail - and his former trainer Yahagi attended the ceremony. The statue was reproduced in 4/5 size and placed beside the paddock. Fukunaga commented, "I'm so proud to have had the opportunity to ride such an outstanding horse. I hope I can train one of Contrail's offspring to be worthy of such a statue."

Sculptor Mr. Takashi Yoshida was the pivotal artist involved in producing the statue. "I have no words. It reminds me of Contrail a lot," trainer Yahagi said, passing on the words of Mr. Maeda to Mr. Yoshida's workshop.

Contrail's first generation of offspring are arriving this year and will make their racecourse debuts in 2025. On the prospects of his progeny, Mr. Maeda added, "People often say, Derby horse brings another Derby horse. I want to connect Contrail to the future." Trainer Yahagi noted, "His offspring are so similar to him. They shine with quality, so I think they will make good racehorses." Trainer Fukunaga also added, "They have elegant heads and have good balance to their bodies. They have a regal quality to them too. I hope they achieve success." The newly erected statue of Contrail will look on as, in due course, his progeny make their presence felt on the racecourse..