On March 16, 2025, the 61st Kinsho Sho (G2) took place at Chukyo Racecourse, showcasing the competitive spirit of thoroughbred racing. This year’s race was particularly noteworthy as it set the stage for forthcoming prestigious events, such as the Osaka Hai, with the winner securing priority entry. The G2 Kinsho Sho brought together ten capable competitors, but it was 4-year-old filly Queens Walk, ridden by Yuga Kawada, who emerged victorious, crossing the finish line with an impressive time of 2 minutes 1.3 seconds.
Queens Walk's win not only marked her third consecutive stakes race victory, including notable wins at the Queen Cup and Rose Stakes, but she also made history as only the eighth filly to win this race since 1995. Her superb performance allowed her to leave the competition behind, including the favorite, Hooo Avisketts, who finished second. Third place was claimed by Kings Palace, making it a noteworthy event for all participants.
Meanwhile, Yutaka Take faced disappointment as he aimed to replicate his legendary win with Silence Suzuka back in 1998. Riding 6-year-old Desierto, the second favorite, he experienced highs and lows during the race. Desierto initially took the lead and built up significant distance, leading by more than ten horse lengths at one point. Despite starting strong, he couldn't maintain the momentum and finished fourth, falling short of Take’s aspirations of achieving victory for the first time since his historic win nearly three decades ago.
Reflecting on the race, Take expressed dissatisfaction with his performance, stating, “I pulled too hard. I should have let him breathe a little more. The start was good, but he got heavy from the corner. The track wasn't good either.” This candid admission highlights the challenges faced by the jockeys and their horses under varying racing conditions. Indeed, the heavy track conditions did not suit many horses on this day, influencing their overall performance.
The victory by Queens Walk was celebrated not just for the win itself but for the competitive nature of the stakes, emphasizing the skill and perseverance of the trainers and jockeys involved. Trainer Nakanai Daishi joined Kawada in the spotlight, achieving his fourth Kinsho Sho win and tying the record for the most wins at this event. This achievement mirrors the champions of the past and cements his position among the elite trainers.
Overall, the Kinsho Sho served as both a thrilling spectacle and as another chapter for several trainers and riders. With the competitive season underway, the results may have larger ramifications for the participants, particularly for Yutaka Take as he seeks to extend his remarkable record of consecutive years with graded stakes wins. His failed attempt this year means the target is now 40 years, but the hunger for victory is far from diminished.
Looking forward, the Kinsho Sho results set the stage for upcoming races, raising questions about competitor dynamics and potential outcomes. Owners, trainers, and fans are all eager to see what the next races may bring, especially as jockeys like Yutaka Take claw back for their shot at history.
Veteran jockeys, such as Take, have become integral to the racing community, providing not only thrilling performances but also mentoring the next generation of talent. The competition grows fiercer with every passing year, and the quest for excellence within this sport remains relentless.
With the accomplishment by Queens Walk, there’s much anticipation surrounding her future ventures, including her appearance at the Osaka Hai. Similarly, jockeys like Take inspire continued interest as their stories intertwine with the newcomers, creating rich narratives within each race.