First Triple Crown champion in 22 years claims title
Wednesday, 12 July, 2023 17:26
Mick Fire and jockey Mikamoto
A 22-year Triple Crown record has been toppled in the JPN1 Japan Dirt Derby. Sent out favourite, Mick Fire maintained a good position throughout the race and caught the front-running Mitono O just past the 100m mark in the homestretch, achieving victory in the Haneda Hai and completing the Triple Crown in the NAR with a strong time of 2 min 4.6 sec. In second place was the sixth favourite, Kirinji, who made a strong late charge, followed by the third favourite, Mitono O, who had led the race.
A "Reiwa-era monster" has emerged in the dirt racing world. With incredible power, Mick Fire chased down his rivals with his jockey urging him on. With determination, he overtook Mitonooh's stubborn lead from the outside, displaying composure as he eased up on the reins to complete the Triple Crown.
"I'm ecstatic. It's unbelievable. I can't find the words right now," blushed jockey Mikamoto as he expressed his gratitude repeatedly in response to the overwhelming "Mikamoto Call" that echoed from the stands. "There wasn't as much pressure as in the Tokyo Derby. I could sense his condition from the paddock and warm-up, so I was hoping he would be able to pass Mitono O," he reflected on the joyous finish.
The race featured a challenging pace from the start that Mick Fire had never experienced before. Despite being forced to run wide throughout the race, he relentlessly pursued the leaders. "Although I was pressured from both the inside and the outside, and we weren't in an ideal position, he ran without losing heart or giving up. I can only express my gratitude," praised the jockey.
Trainer Watanabe was also overwhelmed with emotions. Before the race, he couldn't hide his nervousness, saying, "Experiences like this don't come often." But, once he confirmed his horse's "historic moment," he clenched his fist with determination and exclaimed, "Yoshi!" He added, "I thought we might not be able to catch up, but he ultimately overwhelmed them with sheer power." It was a dreamlike moment for him.
"Now, we want to choose races that befit a Triple Crown champion. He's finally getting into his stride," said Watanabe. Still in the process of growing and developing, the blueprint for the autumn includes races such as the NAR JPN1 JBC Classic and the JRA G1 Champions Cup, The question remains: how far can this "monster" continue its winning streak and evolve? In the midst of the cocktail of lights, the "Reiwa-era Monster" radiated his brilliance.
A "Reiwa-era monster" has emerged in the dirt racing world. With incredible power, Mick Fire chased down his rivals with his jockey urging him on. With determination, he overtook Mitonooh's stubborn lead from the outside, displaying composure as he eased up on the reins to complete the Triple Crown.
"I'm ecstatic. It's unbelievable. I can't find the words right now," blushed jockey Mikamoto as he expressed his gratitude repeatedly in response to the overwhelming "Mikamoto Call" that echoed from the stands. "There wasn't as much pressure as in the Tokyo Derby. I could sense his condition from the paddock and warm-up, so I was hoping he would be able to pass Mitono O," he reflected on the joyous finish.
The race featured a challenging pace from the start that Mick Fire had never experienced before. Despite being forced to run wide throughout the race, he relentlessly pursued the leaders. "Although I was pressured from both the inside and the outside, and we weren't in an ideal position, he ran without losing heart or giving up. I can only express my gratitude," praised the jockey.
Trainer Watanabe was also overwhelmed with emotions. Before the race, he couldn't hide his nervousness, saying, "Experiences like this don't come often." But, once he confirmed his horse's "historic moment," he clenched his fist with determination and exclaimed, "Yoshi!" He added, "I thought we might not be able to catch up, but he ultimately overwhelmed them with sheer power." It was a dreamlike moment for him.
"Now, we want to choose races that befit a Triple Crown champion. He's finally getting into his stride," said Watanabe. Still in the process of growing and developing, the blueprint for the autumn includes races such as the NAR JPN1 JBC Classic and the JRA G1 Champions Cup, The question remains: how far can this "monster" continue its winning streak and evolve? In the midst of the cocktail of lights, the "Reiwa-era Monster" radiated his brilliance.
Article Creds:Daily Sports