Don Frankie showcases power in trackwork ahead of G3 Negishi Stakes

Thursday, 30 January, 2025 19:52

The massive Don Frankie was in full stride on the 29th, working in tandem with Session over the woodchip track at Ritto Training Center. Although his partner closed in at the end to finish on even terms, jockey Kenichi Ikezoe explained, "I was testing his response in the stretch. The rear bandage came loose, making it difficult for him to run." Despite this, he clocked an imposing 6F in 82.0 seconds, with splits of 36.3 and 11.6 seconds.

Just a week ago, Ikezoe had expressed some concern, noting, "He felt looser than ever before." However, his tone changed dramatically after this workout. "Until last week, he couldn't fully support himself and was leaning on the bit. But today, he held himself up properly. He's improving rapidly," he said with satisfaction.

Reflecting on his ninth-place finish in the Breeders' Cup Sprint, trainer Takashi Saito analyzed, "The American horses were too fast, and he got hit with a lot of kickback, preventing him from running his race." As for the stretch-out in the distance, he remained unfazed. "He has handled 1400 meters before, so I'm not worried at all."

In the 2023 Procyon Stakes, Don Frankie set a JRA record for the heaviest graded stakes-winning horse, weighing in at 594 kg. Now, after nearly a year away from JRA competition, Saito joked, "He might be an even bigger horse this time, but I hope fans will support him, weight and all." Meanwhile, Ikezoe, keeping his sights set on the ultimate goal, declared, "Dubai is our main target, but if he can showcase his ability here, it would be a great first step. I truly believe he's a top-class horse."

Article Creds:Daily Sports

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