Cervinia, the Shuka Sho winner who secured two fillies' Classics, completed her final trackwork at the Miho Training Center woodchip track on the 20th, showing impressive power ahead of her bid in the G1 Japan Cup. As a 3-year-old filly, she aims to join the illustrious ranks of Gentildonna (2012) and Almond Eye (2018) as the only fillies to have won the Japan Cup.br>
Cervinia worked between Umbrail on the inside and Berangere on the outside, finishing strongly with a time of 6F in 83.8 seconds, 38.2 for the last 3F, and a sharp 11.7 for the final furlong. The performance mirrored her Shuka Sho preparation, but her strength and fluidity have notably improved. Below are excerpts from trainer Tetsuya Kimura and jockey Christophe Lemaire.

Trainer Tetsuya Kimura

Interviewer - How has Cervinia been prepared since the Shuka Sho?

Kimura - "She had a brief spell to refresh and returned to the stable three weeks ago."

Interviewer - Thoughts on her final trackwork?

Kimura - "We prepared with the race in mind, focusing on her relaxation during the run, responsiveness to her rider in traffic, and her effort toward the finish. She executed that perfectly."

Interviewer - How has she matured this autumn?

Kimura - "She's grown more confident and carries herself with poise now. She's become more like an older sister, quite different from her demeanour in the spring."

Interviewer - Thoughts on the Tokyo Racecourse 2400m turf?

Kimura - "Having won the Japanese Oaks here, it's a familiar and favourable venue for her. Competing close to Miho is also reassuring, minimizing potential stressors."

Interviewer - With the stable aiming for back-to-back Japan Cup wins, what are your expectations?

Kimura - "Last year was a monumental experience for me and the stable. But that's in the past. We're focused on using that experience to rise to this challenge and deliver a performance that delights the fans. We'll give our best effort throughout Sunday afternoon."

Jockey Christophe Lemaire

Interviewer - On winning two fillies' Classics with Cervinia?

Lemaire - "She got into a good position early and stayed composed throughout. Her response in the stretch was excellent, showing a great turn of foot even on the inner course."

Interviewer - Facing older horses for the first time, how do you feel?

Lemaire - "When I rode Almond Eye, it was also her first time competing against older horses. Cervinia is a strong filly, and with 54kg, she's well-placed to compete."

Interviewer - What are your expectations for the race?

Lemaire - "With three international contenders in the field, this year's Japan Cup is highly competitive and exciting. Cervinia is a dual Classic winner, and I believe she has a great chance. I'm aiming for a strong result."