Tokyo International News Agency

In a move that has touched the hearts of horse racing fans across Japan, it has been announced that former jockey Ryuji Wada will serve as the lead horse rider for the Yomiuri Milers Cup (GII) at Kyoto Racecourse on April 26. His partner for this special occasion will be none other than Deep Bond, the powerhouse stayer with whom Wada shared numerous legendary battles throughout his active career. With Wada's official retirement ceremony scheduled for the same day, fans have flooded social media with emotional tributes, calling the pairing "the ultimate tribute" and "the true essence of horse racing." The buzz began when the JRA's Kyoto Racecourse official social media accounts posted footage of the duo's rehearsal. Seeing Wada—who decided to retire following a series of injuries—back in the saddle of Deep Bond sent the topic trending almost instantly. Fans described the unbreakable bond between the pair, who fought through countless graded stakes races t...

JRA has announced that the jockey retirement ceremony for former jockey and current trainer Ryuji Wada will be held at Kyoto Racecourse on April 26. This news generated significant buzz, particularly on SNS 'X' (formerly Twitter), with many fans celebrating his long-standing achievements and expressing anticipation for the ceremony. Wada obtained his trainer's license on March 1st this year, embarking on a new career, but his jockey retirement ceremony was highly awaited as a milestone. With Kyoto Racecourse confirmed as the venue, fans have expressed abundant joy, with comments like 'Great!' and 'I'm definitely going!' Drawing particular attention is the presence of 'that horse' expected to appear alongside Wada at the ceremony. Many posts mention Deep Bond, who serves as a lead pony at Kyoto Racecourse, with fans eagerly anticipating their reunion, commenting 'Pubo-kun (Deep Bond) can attend!' and 'He'll probably appear with Bon...

Long-time leading jockey Ryuji Wada (46) has announced he will abandon his return to active riding due to a fracture sustained from a fall, foregoing his planned comeback before transitioning to a trainer this spring. While fans express regret at his departure, there is also anticipation for his new challenge. Jockey Wada had been aiming to return from the fracture he sustained in a fall last year, but unfortunately, that dream will not be realized. He will conclude his career as a jockey with his transition to a trainer in March 2026. The jockey expressed his feelings in a message to fans, saying, "I am filled with regret that I cannot show you my final ride." Fans have poured in messages praising his numerous achievements, especially his partnership with the legendary racehorse T.M. Opera O and his victory in the Takarazuka Kinen with Mikki Rocket, which colored many memorable races. His passionate riding style, often described as 'infusing fighting spirit,' has lef...