In a remarkable display of speed and endurance, Shamar clinched victory at the 27th Kurofune Hai held at Kochi Racecourse on March 25, 2025, marking its place in history as the second horse to win the prestigious race three consecutive times. With a winning time of 1 minute and 29.8 seconds, Shamar triumphed over its competitors, racing aggressively and maintaining a lead throughout the race.
Ridden by jockey Hiroshi Kawashige and trained by Takeshi Matsushita, the seven-year-old horse, sired by Smart Falcon, established dominance early on, leading a field of 12 strong contenders. Shamar’s performance was exceptional, overcoming a weight of 59 kilograms—a testament to its class as a G1-winning horse.
The race unfolded dramatically, with Shamar taking the early initiative and pushing ahead, setting a fast pace that left the competition struggling to keep up. According to reports, "Shamar widened the gap at the final corner and won by 4 horse lengths," showcasing its superior stamina and speed.
Following closely in the finish was Aladdin Baroque, a strong competitor from Hyogo, who managed to secure a second-place finish. The favorite, Emperor Waka, known for its strong performances, fell short this time, rounding out the top three.
Reflecting on the victory, Kawashige expressed pride and gratitude for Shamar’s performance, stating, "I wanted to show the beautiful scenery again." This quote from Hiroshi Kawashige encapsulates not just the win but also the emotional journey that accompanies such achievements in horse racing.
This victory marks Shamar’s seventh win in local exchange races since its last triumph at the Kashiwa Kinen (JPn1) a year ago—a significant milestone that further cements its legacy in the racing world. Shamar's successful defense of the Kurofune Hai title echoes the achievement of Sei Crimson, who won the same race three times in succession from 2012 to 2014.
As Shamar continues its racing career, the team behind it is optimistic about future competitions. Kawashige hinted at a desire to relive the joy and excitement of winning again, aiming to replicate the thrilling experiences that followers of the sport cherish. He noted, "Last year I won this here, and we aim to see that splendid scenery again," emphasizing both ambition and a deep respect for the sport and its traditions.
The Kurofune Hai has long been a staple of the Japanese racing calendar, attracting top talent and providing exhilarating entertainment for fans. Holding its position as a crucial race encourages not only competitive spirit among jockeys and trainers but also bolsters community spirit and enthusiasm around horse racing.
In summary, Shamar's historic win at the Kurofune Hai is not just a personal triumph but a significant moment for the racing community. As spectators and fans reflect on this accomplishment, the excitement for what the future holds for Shamar and its team only grows. With the next racing season approaching, many will undoubtedly be eager to follow Shamar’s journey as it attempts to add more victories to its impressive record.
