Keisei Hai Autumn Handicap winner Ho O Las Cases, now a seasoned 7-year-old mare, defied expectations in her previous start to capture her first graded stakes victory. It was her first appearance at that level since finishing seventh in the Shien Stakes as a three-year-old, and she triumphed despite being sent off as the 13th favourite. Jockey Takuya Kowata reflected, "The stable told me she has a good turn of foot in the stretch, so I decided to rely on that."

Kowata rode with one clear focus, to bring out her strongest asset. The track condition on opening weekend favoured front-runners, and she was positioned a challenging tenth early on. However, taking full advantage of her inside draw, he hugged the rail throughout and boldly shot through on the inside at the final turn without hesitation. "She's not the type to be bothered by other horses. She's got the mental toughness to go right into the pack on her own," he explained. The strategy worked perfectly, but the credit also goes to Kowata, whose daring and decisive riding drew out her full potential, hallmarks of his style.

This time for the G2 Ireland Trophy, the setting changes significantly to Tokyo's 1800-meter turf course, but their approach will remain the same. "Tokyo's straight is longer, but she's got a sharp burst of speed. My goal is simply to use that to the fullest," said the jockey with determination. His only aim is to let his partner show her best once again.

In recent weeks, veteran runners have been shining in graded stakes, 8-year-old Win Carnelian captured the G1 Sprinters Stakes, and 7-year-old Deep Monster claimed the Kyoto Daishoten. Kowata added, "I'll focus on keeping her in rhythm and aim for a top finish within that flow." There is a strong sense that this 7-year-old mare could spring another surprise.