The British contender Charyn is set to compete in the Mile Championship, marking the first time in 13 years that an overseas runner has participated in this prestigious Japanese mile event. On the 13th, Charyn took to the Kyoto turf for his final tune-up, with jockey Ryan Moore in the saddle. Posting 81.1 seconds over six furlongs, with a final 200 meters in a sharp 12.2 seconds, Charyn showed off the strength and power that has earned him three G1 titles this year as Europe's top miler. Other notable final workouts included Brede Weg, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup winner, and Jun Blossom, the Fuji Stakes victor, both signalling peak condition.

Charyn's mission is clear: to make history as the first international winner of the Mile Championship. The grey son of Dark Angel defied his reputation as a "laid-back trainee" with an impressive display under Moore's guidance. Moore noted, "It wasn't an intense gallop, more of a fine-tuning session. His cornering was smooth, his breathing was good, and he really extended well in the final 400 meters. Even though this is my first time riding him, I've raced against him before and have a solid feel for his style." Trainer Roger Varian was equally pleased, commenting, "He had a lovely, expansive stride and showed a smooth lead change down the straight."

Charyn's record speaks for itself. After his G1 victory in the Queen Anne Stakes this summer, he secured another commanding win in the Prix Jacques Le Marois by three lengths. Most recently, he displayed his tenacity to capture the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, making it three G1 titles this year, a feat that sets him up perfectly for his Japan debut.

Varian also shared insights into Charyn's maturity, saying, "After his three-year-old finale, he developed significantly over his breakthrough March this year. He possesses both sprinter speed and stamina." Moore assessed Charyn's handling of the clockwise track, saying, "He managed the hill and turns well. He's had experience at Sandown and Goodwood in Europe, so I'm confident he'll adapt smoothly."

Set to retire after this race to begin his stud career, Charyn's Japanese debut holds special meaning. "My Japanese wife encouraged us to consider this race well in advance, so it's been on our radar for a long time," Varian remarked. "We hope Japanese fans enjoy seeing this European Champion in action." This imposing grey from Britain could be a formidable threat to Japan's finest.