From Hokkaido to Paris: Admire Terra Targets Arc de Triomphe via Sapporo Kinen with Ryusei Sakai

Trainer Yasuo Tomomichi has revealed an ambitious plan for his trainee, Admire Terra, to challenge France's prestigious Grade 1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, using the summer's Sapporo Kinen (GII) as a stepping stone. The colt will undergo training and preparation at the Hakodate Racecourse quarantine stables before heading to the Sapporo Kinen. Additionally, reports indicate that Stinger Glass, another horse from the same stable, is targeting the Melbourne Cup in Australia. This star-studded autumn campaign abroad has sparked intense excitement among racing fans.

Social media has been particularly abuzz over the announcement of a new partnership for the Sapporo Kinen with jockey Ryusei Sakai. Known for his extensive experience riding overseas, Sakai’s appointment has fueled fan speculation. "Was this pairing decided with the Arc in mind from the very start?" and "I hope Sakai rides him in the main event as well," were among the many hopeful comments. While some fans expressed a desire to see the horse continue his partnership with legendary jockey Yutaka Take, who previously rode him, there is high anticipation for Sakai’s capabilities as a next-generation ace.

The path from the "Sapporo Kinen to the Arc de Triomphe" evokes memories of past legendary campaigns by fan favorites like Gold Ship and Harp Star. Fans have shared their excitement, with comments ranging from "I hope he cruises to an easy victory in the Sapporo Kinen first" to "The Sapporo Kinen crowd during the Obon holiday is going to be absolutely packed." Others sent words of encouragement, noting that "France's tough, testing turf should suit him well," while passionate debates have sparked online regarding his distance aptitude and prep race choices. As Admire Terra aims for the pinnacle of global racing, all eyes will first be on his kickoff race in Japan's northern wilderness.

The Context

The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is widely regarded by Japanese horse racing fans and professionals as the "ultimate unconquered peak." Winning the Arc has been a long-held dream for the Japanese racing industry, which has come tantalizingly close with second-place finishes by legendary horses like El Condor Pasa, Nakayama Festa, and Orfevre. Consequently, any serious Japanese contender targeting the Arc generates massive domestic interest.

The Sapporo Kinen, held at Sapporo Racecourse in Hokkaido during August, is technically a Grade II race but is often referred to as the "G1 of the Summer" due to the incredibly strong fields it attracts. It serves as a rare opportunity for top-tier turf horses to run during the hot summer months, often acting as a springboard for autumn campaigns. The mention of the "Obon holiday" refers to a mid-August Japanese festival season when many people travel, making the Sapporo races exceptionally crowded.

Trainer Yasuo Tomomichi is one of Japan's elite trainers, known for managing powerhouse horses like Derby winners Makahiki and Do Deuce. Meanwhile, jockey Ryusei Sakai is one of the brightest young stars in Japanese racing. Apprenticed to globe-trotting trainer Yoshito Yahagi, Sakai has gained significant international experience riding in Dubai, the US, and Europe, making him a natural fit for a global campaign.

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