Seven Years in the Making: Yuusuke Hara Claims First JRA Graded Win Aboard Smart Priere in Flower Cup Upset
On March 21, 2026, at Nakayama Racecourse, the 40th Flower Cup (GIII) saw a stunning come-from-behind victory by 6th favorite Smart Priere. Her jockey, Yuusuke Hara (28), achieved his long-awaited first JRA Graded Stakes win in his seventh year as a professional. The race ended in an upset, with 9th favorite Longing Celine finishing second and overwhelming favorite Exceed taking third place. Seven Years of Perseverance, A Long-Awaited Graded Title Immediately after crossing the finish line, Hara returned to the weighing enclosure, visibly emotional and shedding tears of joy, pumping his fist in an explosive display of triumph. After seven years since his debut, and with no prior graded stakes victories, this win was exceptionally special. Following the race, Hara expressed his confidence and aspirations, stating, "The stable had been working on her ability to settle, so I was confident in holding her back to unleash her turn of foot. She has amazing explosive power and is a very e...