On January 19, 2025, the 72nd Nikkei New Spring Cup unfolded at Chukyo Racecourse, showcasing thrilling competition on its turf. Jockey Junya Nishimura rode the fourth favorite, Road Delray, to victory, marking the horse's first win in graded races. The handsome chestnut, trained by Masayoshi Nakaida, was previously noted for his promise, having been remarkably close to victory on several occasions. This day, he finally secured the prestigious win with determined strides down the stretch.
Road Delray executed his race strategy masterfully, initially tracking the pace set by the front-runners before launching his attack. Midway through the final turn, he surged forward, slipping past the tiring leaders with ease. He finished three lengths clear of his nearest competitor, Show Nan Rapunta, clocking 2:09.8 on good ground.
The victory was emotional for Nishimura, who remarked, "I’m really happy. From the first time I rode him, I thought he was very good." His enthusiasm reflected not just his personal achievement but the latent potential he believed Road Delray possesses. This horse has been under close training scrutiny, and today’s success suggests he may well be on the brink of even greater accomplishments.
Road Delray’s lineage is impressive, claiming ancestry related to several successful thoroughbreds, which probably enhanced his racing intellect. His victory at Chukyo follows two second-place finishes since returning from layoff last fall. Nishimura continued, stating, "I noticed how well the training team prepped him, leading to this moment." This reflects well on not just the jockey and the horse but highlights the entire training program run by Nakaida.
Nakaida himself shared insights post-race, noting, "I’m very pleased with how he ran today. He faced challenges earlier, but showed great improvement." Clearly, both horse and jockey have honed their skills through rigorous preparation and the experience gathered through earlier races contributed significantly to their success today.
The event proved exhilarating not just for participants but the gathered fans at Chukyo, capturing the palpable excitement of live racing. Celebrated presenter Hayato Ichihara, who officiated at the awards ceremony, expressed his delight, stating, "Congratulations to Road Delray and jockey Junya Nishimura. The crowd was thrilled!" His words resounded through the venue, encapsulating the buzz of teamwork echoed throughout the ranks.
This win also furnishes Road Delray with important momentum heading toward future races. Holding his first graded stakes win, he is now within reach of greater titles within the new racing season.
Overall, the 72nd Nikkei New Spring Cup was not simply a race but rather showcased the culmination of hard work and dedication focused on performance. With promising talent like Road Delray on the horizon, the world of thoroughbred racing looks forward to achievements to come as the season progresses.