Wilson Tesoro Dominates Kashiwa Kinen: Jockey Yuga Kawada Wins Hearts with Skill and Humor
On May 5, 2026, the 38th Kashiwa Kinen (JpnI), a major inter-regional exchange race held at Funabashi Racecourse, was won by third-favorite Wilson Tesoro, guided by the skillful hands of jockey Yuga Kawada. After a series of close calls, including a second-place finish in the February Stakes, this victory marked a long-awaited third JpnI title for the horse, further solidifying the dominance of the Kitasan Black lineage. Positioned around fifth in the middle of the pack, Wilson Tesoro showed incredible grit in the final straight. In a display of veteran technique, Kawada pushed the horse to overtake the front-running favorite, Micky Fight, by a neck right at the finish line. Reflecting on the race, Kawada praised his partner, saying, "He was in fantastic condition and felt fresh. I trusted him to catch the leader before the finish, and I really put him to work in the straight. I am truly grateful for his effort to win through." "You’re Probably Waiting for Yamap..."...