Natural Rise Eyes historic Sweep in Japan Dirt Triple Crown Finale
Tokyo, Japan – Natural Rise aims to complete a rare sweep of Japan’s Dirt Triple Crown in the November 26 Tokyo Chunichi Sports Hai Musashino stakes at Tokyo Racecourse. The Keizo Ito-trained colt enters the race undefeated this year, having already secured victories in the Haneda Hai on April 29 and the Tokyo Derby at Oi on June 11 – the first two legs of the prestigious series.
The Musashino Stakes represents a notable possibility for Natural Rise to cement his status as a leading dirt runner in Japan. A win would not only grant him the Triple Crown title but also elevate his value as a breeding prospect. The race carries ample implications for Grand Stud, who purchased the colt’s half-sister, a relation to two-time grade 1 winner Carpe Diem, for $285,000 at the 2015 fasig-Tipton November Sale.
Natural Rise, a son of Deep impact, demonstrated his readiness for the challenge with a strong six-furlong breeze at Miho Training Center on October 3, clocked at 1:26.4 with jockey Takeshi Yokoyama aboard. Following a period of rest at grand Stud, the colt resumed full training with Ito on September 3.
The competition is expected to be led by Godolphin’s Narukami, winner of the September 2 Kozuata Sho at Morioka by 2 1/2 lengths.However,Natural Rise is anticipated to be the strong favorite,leveraging his consistent performance and undefeated record this season.
The Tokyo Chunichi Sports Hai Musashino Stakes will be run over 1,800 meters on the dirt track at Tokyo Racecourse. A successful outcome for Natural Rise would mark a defining moment in his career and a significant achievement for his connections.
