Jockey Yosuke Hara Rides Long Shot Reservation to Stunning New Zealand Trophy Upset, Signaling a "Breakout" Year
On the 11th, Reservation, the 6th favorite ridden by Yosuke Hara, overcame long odds of 43.5-1 to secure a brilliant victory in the 44th New Zealand Trophy (GII) held at Nakayama Racecourse. This marked Reservation's first graded stakes win and also the first JRA graded stakes win for a progeny of the stallion Danon Premium, making it a historic triumph. In the race, Reservation broke away from the second position, dominating a fierce battle in the final straight to cross the finish line. Rodeo Drive, the top favorite, finished second, while Gneking, the fourth favorite, took third. The Trifecta paid a substantial ¥59,140, as the 140th most popular combination, indicating an upset. For owner Isami Nakamura (Chairman of Keiai Farm), it was also a joyous occasion, marking his first JRA graded stakes victory under his personal name. Jockey Yosuke Hara already marked his second graded stakes victory this year with this win. This achievement, following his success in last month's Fl...