The 70th Tokyo Daishōten Stakes (G1) is set to take place at Ohi Racecourse on December 29, 2024, marking the thrilling finale of Japan's horse racing calendar. With its significant prestige, this race draws not just the best horses but also attention from fans and media alike.
This year, all eyes are on Forever Young, who has triumphed domestically with four straight wins and also placed third at both the Kentucky Derby and Breeders' Cup Classic earlier this season. Trainer Yoshito Yahagi is optimistic, stating, "This race will be pivotal for top competitors, especially Forever Young who is aiming for another victory." The anticipation surrounding this horse is palpable as he seeks to maintain his domestic unbeaten streak.
Adding to the excitement is the participation of celebrity Misaki Jinbu, who has taken to social media to engage fans prior to the event. On her platforms, she teased, "Let's get back our losses at the Tokyo Daishōten this year," indicating not only her personal interest but also stirring enthusiasm among her followers. Jinbu has highlighted four horses she believes will be the fiercest contenders, tagging them with hashtags like #ForeverYoung and #UshbaTesoro on her Instagram posts.
The Tokyo Daishōten also features esteemed competitors like Ushba Tesoro, who is eyeing his third consecutive victory, making this lineup truly exciting. Other horses expected to make waves on race day include Wilson Tesoro and Ramjet, rounding out the heavy hitters competing for the title.
On December 27, prominent figure Junko Hosoe, known for her expertise as a horse collaborator, shared her insights during promotional events leading up to the race. Hosoe expressed optimism for Crown Pride, noting past difficulties faced during the Champions Cup but emphasizing the horse's strengths, saying, "Crown Pride has strong potential factors helping its performance this time." With the right conditions, including favorable barriers and lighter weight, she believes Crown Pride could surprise attendees.
Beyond the races themselves, the event promises engaging activities for fans. Actor Fumiya Takahashi, who is to be the official 2024 TCK image character, will be present to conduct a live talk show, sharing insights and interacting with the crowd. He will also take the stage during the award ceremony, making his participation another draw for supporters.
With social media buzzing and celebrities showing up for events surrounding the race, anticipation is growing. Not only does the Tokyo Daishōten serve as the pinnacle of the year for horse racing, but it also signifies excitement for the next racing season. Fans, trainers, and participants alike are gearing up for what promises to be a captivating display of speed and skill on the tracks.
This significant event presents not just the culmination of horses' hard work throughout the year but the beginning of new legacies, rivalries, and stories to emerge. The Tokyo Daishōten Stakes is sure to be the highlight of the horse racing calendar and offers thrilling sportsmanship that's sure to engage fans of all ages.
