Nishini Daisy has made waves at the 2024 Nakayama Kinen, marking his return to the top of the jump racing world after a two-year hiatus from the winner's circle. The 8-year-old gelding, ridden by seasoned jockey Yusuke Igarashi, showcased his exceptional skills over the 4,100-meter course on December 21 at Nakayama Racecourse, defeating his nearest rival, the five-year-old Ecoro Duel, by five lengths.
This stellar performance not only redeemed the horse after finishing second last year but also solidified his status with his second victory at this prestigious event. Igarashi, who rode Nishini Daisy to victory said, “It’s the best! I thought it was over for us, but this result shows we've improved.” The euphoric atmosphere was palpable as jubilant crowds celebrated the horse’s long-awaited return to success.
With an overall record of 32 races and six wins—three of which were over obstacles—Nishini Daisy has established himself as a significant competitor. His career spans various distances and disciplines, with standout performances including victories at the 2018 Sapporo Nisai Stakes and the 2022 Nakayama Kinen.
Nishini Daisy demonstrated strategic brilliance during the race. Despite facing challenges early on, he maintained his composure and ran at the fourth position, allowing him to find strength and rhythm through the race's first half. According to Igarashi, “Daisy worked really hard today. I’m thrilled with this victory!”
The race saw fierce competition, with Taro Kusano, who provided the ride for Ecoro Duel, commenting on their performance, saying, “It was tough and we didn’t have the best of runs, but we improved from last year.” Ecoro Duel placed second, reflecting significant enhancement from previous outings. Meanwhile, fifth-place finisher Jun Takada, who rode June Velocity, noted the unpredictability of the race dynamic, emphasizing, “The pace was hectic; this race is tough, and we must do everything right to win at this level.”
Post-race discussions turned to the future of Nishini Daisy. Trainer Noboru Takagi stated, “We will have to consult with the owner about whether to continue racing or not,” indicating potential plans for forthcoming seasons. The performance displayed by Nishini Daisy, coupled with positive remarks about his growth, suggests he is still capable of thrilling audiences with more spectacular displays.
This latest victory marks more than just another win; it signifies the resilience and dedication of not only Nishini Daisy but also his entire team, who have worked tirelessly to build back after setbacks. An endearing character to fans, Nishini Daisy, has cultivated substantial support, inviting hope for even greater achievements.
With his remarkable comeback and impressive history, all eyes will be on Nishini Daisy as he potentially continues his career as one of jump racing's fierce competitors. Expect more exhilarating performances from this stalwart, continuing to motivate fans and professionals eager to witness his next chapter.
