Japan's Panthalassa Repels Country Grammer in Saudi Cup

Japan raider Panthalassa  outlasted a late bid from the American-trained Country Grammer  to win the $20 million Saudi Cup (G1) Feb. 25 at King Abdulaziz Racecourse.

Panthalassa controlled the race from the start under Yutaka Yoshida and turned away all his rivals, including many from his own country. Country Grammer was the only one to threaten him late, closing furiously on the outside in late stretch after being outquickened on the turn when racing wide in midpack.

The winner, bred by Pangloss Y. K, and Toshihiro Hirosaki, et al, is a son of Lord Kanaloa  out of the Montjeu  mare Miss Pemberley . He is trained by Yoshito Yahagi.

Panthalassa returned $34.10 for a $2 win wager in an international pari-mutuel wagering pool.

Japanese-trained horses also finished third through finish, with Cafe Pharaoh, Geoglyph, and Crown Pride .

Taiba , the other American-trained entry, was unplaced after tracking the pace. He came under early urging from jockey Mike Smith and retreated leaving the race's lone turn in the 1,800 meter (about 1 1/8 miles) race.

This story will be updated.