Takuma Ogino, now in his 18th year as a jockey, will make his third career G1 appearance, and his first in 12 years, partnering with the undefeated Kurino Mei from the Naosuke Sugai Stable, where he regularly assists with training. Known as a hard-working rider trusted with handling numerous G1-caliber horses in training, Ogino is ready to seize this rare opportunity.

The prospect of returning to the G1 stage after a 12-year hiatus has Ogino filled with excitement. His last G1 ride was in April 2012, aboard Golden Hind in the Tenno Sho (Spring), finishing 7th.

Originally, Daisuke Sasaki was slated to ride Kurino Mei but was sidelined due to a suspension, prompting a substitution. During the summer meet in Hokkaido, Ogino was tasked with overseeing the horse's pre-debut training, leading to the decision to entrust him with the ride. "I'm grateful to have been given this opportunity. It reassures me that all my efforts over the years haven't been in vain. Even when training horses for other riders, I've always aimed to learn something from each experience," said Ogino, rolling up his sleeves for the challenge.

At 36, Ogino has quietly supported some of the sport's most prominent stables as a behind-the-scenes figure. At Sugai Stable, he has been trusted with the training of star horses like Gold Ship and Sodashi. Trainer Naosuke Sugai holds him in high regard, saying, "He's been a great contributor to our newcomers, and I'd be overjoyed if he could achieve something big. He's a real hard worker. He also had a good relationship with former jockey Kota Fujioka, which says a lot about his character."

Ogino, appreciative of the faith placed in him, expressed his gratitude. "I owe a lot to trainer Sugai. Even when I was working with his top horses in training, he'd tell me, 'Everyone's watching what you're doing.' It's been an incredible experience, and I want to repay his trust in the best way possible."

Although this will be his first race aboard Kurino Mei, he has already got to know the filly's quirks through pre-debut and recent training sessions. "I'll give it everything I've got," he said with determination. The unsung hero, who has spent years working in the shadows, is ready to take centre stage at Hanshin Racecourse this winter.