The 2025 Young Fillies' Stakes at Hanan Racecourse delivered thrilling action on February 24, showcasing the incredible talents of three-year-old fillies who raced for the coveted title and prize purse of 14 million yen. The stakes were high, and as the horses thundered down the track, fans were treated to a competitive spectacle well worth the entry fee.
The race began with anticipation, featuring some of the best fillies from across the region, each vying for their moment of glory. Among them, Proud Fleur, ridden by jockey Takumi Chouda, emerged as the standout performer, securing the victory against fierce competition. Proud Fleur, trained by Masakazu Kawashima, put on a commanding display, finishing with a remarkable time of 1:28.3, significantly faster than her competitors.
According to local reports, Proud Fleur's performance was not only impressive but also indicative of her strong breeding lineage. Sired by New Year’s Day and out of the fine mare Three Melody, whose own pedigree includes Neo Universe, Proud Fleur's lineage is noteworthy, contributing to her success on the track. The filly's triumph marked her second consecutive victory, having also won the Tokyo 2-Year-Old Fillies' Stakes earlier this season.
Following closely behind, Zero Hour, the race favorite, finished strong but was unable to close the gap, coming across the line just 1.5 lengths behind the winner. Ridden by Takayuki Takatsuki and trained by Kenichi Takatsuki, Zero Hour showcased her potential but fell short this time. Despite her loss, her racing career is still bright, with many expecting strong performances from her in future races.
Third place went to 24, ridden by Kouta Motohashi, who proved to be another formidable competitor. Under the tutelage of trainer Tomohiro Kokubo, 24’s finish added to the excitement of the day and emphasized the depth of talent participating.
The results were as follows:
1st: Proud Fleur (2nd favorite) - 1:28.3
2nd: Zero Hour (1st favorite) - 1:29.6
3rd: 24 (7th favorite) - 1:29.8
The Young Fillies' Stakes has grown to be one of the important fixtures on the racing calendar, not merely for the reputation it carries but also for the significant financial stakes involved. For trainers, owners, and breeders, performances like those exhibited by Proud Fleur are not only about winning trophies but also pose the potential for future lucrative breeding deals and sponsorship opportunities.
Fans and media alike praised the event's organization and the quality of the racers. The atmosphere at Hanan Racecourse was electric, filled with excitement as crowd favorite Proud Fleur made her way to the winner’s circle. “It was exciting to watch such talent on display; Proud Fleur truly deserved this win,” said one enthusiastic spectator.
The Young Fillies' Stakes is not merely about today’s winners; it serves as a platform to reveal the future stars of horse racing. The competition features many promising fillies, raising anticipation for their next races and the potential they hold. Racing analysts are already speculating about how Proud Fleur will fare at future meets and if she can carry this momentum forward.
Also present at the race were noted figures from the Kentucky racing scene, adding glamour and culture to the event. With jockeys and trainers debating tactics and potential for future competitions, the camaraderie and rivalry among the attendees underscored the close-knit nature of the racing community.
For Proud Fleur's connections—her jockey, trainer, and owner—the stakes are now higher than ever. Each race offers another chance to build on their reputation and capitalize on their success. Racing enthusiasts can look forward to seeing how this promising filly develops through the season, potentially leading to appearances at even larger events down the line.
Looking beyond the Young Fillies' Stakes results, this race serves as yet another reminder of the richness of equestrian sports and the fervor it fosters among fans and participants alike. Horse racing, steeped in tradition, continues to thrill across generations. With each race like this, spectators are reminded why they love this sport: the unpredictable outcomes, the incredible athleticism of these animals, and the passionate community of those who follow the action.