On April 19, 2025, the Antares Stakes (G3) at Hanshin Racecourse saw a thrilling performance from Mikki Fight, who claimed victory in the 1800-meter dirt race. Ridden by jockey Christophe Lemaire, the 4-year-old mare proved her mettle as she surged ahead from a strong position, marking her third graded stakes win. With odds of 1.8, Mikki Fight was the favorite and didn’t disappoint her supporters, finishing the race in a swift time of 1 minute and 51.3 seconds.
The race featured a total of 12 horses, although Tousei Tsuzumi was scratched from the lineup. Mikki Fight's victory was decisive, as she crossed the finish line with a comfortable lead of 2 1/2 lengths over the second-place finisher, Taito Knnit, who was piloted by Yuga Kawada. Line of Soul, ridden by Fuma Matsuwaka, rounded out the top three, finishing in third place.
"She’s a strong horse," Lemaire said after the race, highlighting his first-time experience riding Mikki Fight. "I wanted to go at my own pace, so I took a position in the second or third spot. She was relaxed and got her breath back, and in the end, she used her long legs as she always does. I think 1800 meters is the best distance for her." His assessment underscores the confidence Lemaire has in Mikki Fight's abilities.
Trainer Tanaka also expressed satisfaction with the performance, stating, "I think she showed her power today. We had a clear goal of wanting to add to her earnings, and I’m glad we achieved that. We plan to go straight to the Teio Sho next. I believe she will continue to improve, but we want to take good care of her." This future target indicates a strategic approach to Mikki Fight's racing career, aiming for further successes in prestigious events.
Prior to this race, Mikki Fight had competed in the February Stakes (G1), where she finished in third place. However, her return to form in the Antares Stakes solidifies her status as a formidable competitor in the racing circuit. With this win, her record now stands at 6 starts with 4 victories, showcasing her potential as a leading horse in her class.
The race itself was a spectacle, with a strong crowd in attendance at Hanshin Racecourse. The atmosphere was electric as fans cheered for their favorites, particularly for Mikki Fight, who has quickly become a fan favorite due to her impressive track record and engaging racing style. The event not only highlighted the excitement of horse racing but also the dedication of the teams behind these athletes.
In the betting arena, Mikki Fight's victory paid out 180 yen for a win bet. The exacta, pairing the first and second place finishers, paid out 2,520 yen, while the trifecta, which included the top three finishers, paid an impressive 299,860 yen. These figures reflect the high stakes and excitement surrounding the race, as well as the unpredictability that can often accompany such events.
As the racing season progresses, all eyes will be on Mikki Fight and her upcoming challenges. The Teio Sho, a significant race on the calendar, will be the next test for the talented mare. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how she performs against the competition and whether she can continue her winning streak.
With trainers and jockeys constantly evaluating their strategies and horses’ performances, the world of horse racing remains dynamic and thrilling. Mikki Fight's recent success is a testament to the hard work and commitment of her team, as well as the horse's innate talent and determination.
As the dust settles on the Antares Stakes, the excitement is far from over. The racing community will be buzzing with discussions about Mikki Fight's future and the potential for even more victories. Will she maintain her form and continue to dominate the circuit? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Mikki Fight has made her mark and is a name to watch in the coming races.
