The Queen Elizabeth Stakes (G1, 2000m turf) is a traditional race that will be held at Randwick Racecourse on April 12th. With a total prize purse of AUD 5 million, it is one of Australia's biggest stages, attracting top horses from Japan and abroad. Lowsham Park came in a close second in last year's Breeders' Cup Turf. We spoke to him after he rode in training. This blog is presented in interview format.
(Fujii) First of all, congratulations on winning the UAE Derby with Admire Daytona!
(Lemaire) Thank you. Admire Daytona really did his best. He was overtaken once in the straight, but he bounced back and showed his mettle. This horse is a real talent, having battled Lux All Cafe in a maiden race and pulling away from the rest of the pack. Kato Masahiro's stable has given me many chances, including the Japan Dirt Derby with Nonkono Yume and the Keisei Hai with Gratias. I'm happy that we were able to achieve a result this time as well.
(Fujii) After riding Namura Claire in the Takamatsunomiya Kinen, you went straight to Dubai. And now you're in Australia?
(Lemaire) Yes. I flew directly from Dubai to Sydney. After a 13-hour flight, I immediately went to check out Randwick Racecourse.
(Lemaire) I walked around the track to check out the key points of the course. There's a false straight at the corner, just like at Longchamp. With such a large course, with a long home stretch and straightaway, I think I'll be able to gradually raise the horse's gear. I think it's well suited to Lowsham Park, and it's a racecourse that seems to suit my riding style. The turf is in good condition, and I checked with the track manager. There's a forecast of light rain, so I've been told they won't be watering it any further.
(Fujii) He also seemed to be doing well in his final workout at Canterbury Racecourse, which is currently under quarantine.
(Lemaire) This morning, he completed a 6F workout after leaving the gate. He was focused and showed great movement. He ran the last furlong in 11.9 seconds, showing dynamic action. Considering that the track was a little soft due to the rain, it was a good time.
(Lemaire) That race was a really special experience. For Australians, the Melbourne Cup is a "national event." It's a country where not only horse racing but sports in general are popular, so the cheers were incredible.
(Fujii) Do you have any contact with local jockeys?
(Lemaire) I received a message from jockey H. Bowman saying, "Welcome to my home!" He's now based in Hong Kong, but he was originally a leading jockey in Sydney. I'm also going to ask for his advice before the race.
(Lemaire) This time I'm here with my wife, Barbara. The hotel we're staying at is near the Harbour Bridge, and we found a great restaurant. The old townscape of Sydney is also charming, and I'm looking forward to exploring it.
(Lemaire) I'm happy to be back in Australia. At Lowsham Park, I came second in the Breeders' Cup Turf, so I don't think there will be any problems with the trip. I've been riding in training this time and I've confirmed he's in good condition, so I'm looking forward to it. This race will likely be a battle of tactics, just like in France and Hong Kong. I hope Japanese fans will enjoy the rides at Lowsham Park. CL by C. Lemaire also has a Street Jockey T-shirt featuring monuments from racecourses around the world. I'll do my best to make sure everyone enjoys riding in various places!
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藤井勘一郎
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