July 5, 2024

Mozu Ascot is an American-born horse whose sire is Frankel. Frankel himself had an impressive track record, finishing races undefeated during his active career, and is now a very popular stallion in Europe. However, as this was Mozu Ascot's first foal, there were many uncertainties regarding his race aptitude and temperament.
"When he was young, he was still very immature and would get excited and curious. However, he showed signs of growth with each race, and by the time he took on the Yasuda Kinen, he was a much more mature horse. Looking back at the Yasuda Kinen, the ideal situation was for him to race in a slightly more forward position. As he passed the third corner, the field narrowed, and he had to drop back a row. At that point, he lost his motivation, but as he entered the straight, he gradually switched back on and regained the bit. When the pack of horses opened up, he was able to win with a brilliant finishing kick."

After winning the Yasuda Kinen, he went on a winning streak, but since switching to dirt, he has shown a new side of himself. He won the Negishi Stakes and the following February Stakes, achieving the remarkable feat of winning both turf and dirt G1 races. "I believe Mozu Ascot was the first Frankel offspring to run in a Grade 1 race on dirt. I was impressed by trainer Yahagi's race selection," he said. "As a father, I have many two-year-olds making their debut this year. I've already seen my offspring win in Hakodate, and I'm happy to see the offspring of the horses I've been involved with do well in races. If he inherits the finishing kick and toughness he showed in Mozu Ascot's races, he will be a successful stallion." When asked if he plans to collaborate with a brand in the future, he replied, "I'm looking forward to it. I have a number of horses in mind, including Mozu Ascot."

Shrike Ascot Photo provided by: Takahashi Yuji (Thank you as always!)

About two weeks ago, the news of jockey Mirai Iwata's trip to France was announced. He also lent his support as a model for "CL by C. Lemaire." "Mirai has steadily racked up wins since his debut, and is one of the most dynamic young jockeys. His father (Yasunari Iwata) is an incredible jockey, so he inherited some incredible blood. When I heard he wanted to ride in France, I wanted to help him, so I introduced him to a local trainer. He's already there, and it seems he's working hard based at my Shanti home. Japanese jockeys like Rusei Sakai, Masayoshi Kawada, and Yusuke Fujioka, who are among the top jockeys, have also grown through their experience abroad," Christophe said. He added that he was happy to lend a hand, as he himself received a lot of help from those around him when he was younger. His willingness to help the next generation without compensation is an inspiration to me. I hope to share what I've learned from my long time living abroad, just like Christophe, and be a part of the development of horse racing.
(Jockey Lemaire: Wearing ARIMASTRIKER, a collection dedicated to Heart's Cry at a partner shop with Shadai Race Horse, limited to 124 copies; Jockey Iwata: Wearing GOAT, a collection dedicated to Almond Eye at a partner shop with Silk Racing, limited to 220 copies)


Here is a private photo of Christophe. Photographed alongside him is top volleyball player Dmitrim Selskiy. "I was introduced to him by fellow Frenchman Thiry Rolland, who coaches at Panasonic. Selskiy is 218cm tall, so if I were a horse, I'd look like a pony," he said with a smile. (Worn by jockey Lemaire: FRENCH DERBY, a collection dedicated to French Derby winning horse Le Havre, limited to 130 copies)

It's clear from Christophe's words that he is feeling refreshed after taking a month off from racing. He made a rapid comeback after the accident in Dubai in March and competed in the spring season, so I hope he can take a good rest and show us some great riding again on the turf.