Leontes Wins Asahi Hai Futurity in 2nd Start
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Photo: Masakazu Takahashi
Leontes wins the Asahi Hai Futurity Dec. 20.
Leontes, a half brother to 2014 Japan Cup (Jpn-I) winner Epiphaneia, went from debut winner to group I winner Dec. 20 when capturing the Asahi Hai Futurity at Hanshin Racecourse.
The victory in Japan's biggest race for 2-year-olds in only his second start marks the first time in Japan Racing Association history a colt has accomplished the feat since the grade system was implemented in 1984.
The son of King Kamehameha came from last of 16 runners to win by three-quarters of a length from favorite Air Spinel, who took charge near the furlong pole but the winner's closing drive was too strong. Shadow Approach was third, four lengths back.
Breaking from post 15, Leontes gradually advanced with 800 meters to go and nearing the final turn in the about 1,600-meter (about one-mile) race. Circling the field and going wide into the stretch, the dark bay colt unleashed a tremendous turn of speed and collared Air Spinel soon after the 100-meter marker to secure the win.
Leontes covered the distance in 1:34.04 on firm turf.
"I had been told that this colt was powerful and he certainly showed that when I rode him in training on Wednesday—he was pretty keen but smart and an honest colt," winning rider Mirco Demuro said while relishing his fourth group I win of the season. "It was his first time over a mile, but he responded and really stretched well on the outside. He has got a lot to look forward to in his 3-year-old season."
Demuro won the Asahi Hai Futurity in 2010 and 2012 with Grand Prix Boss and Logotype, respectively.
Air Spinel was rated in mid-division, almost 10 lengths behind pacesetter Win Oscar. He edged closer to the leaders before the last turn, sprinted clear once taking command but had to settle for second.
Katsuhiko Sumii trains Leontes for U. Carrot Farm. The colt was bred by Northern Farm from Japanese champion and U.S. grade I winner Cesario, by Special Week.
Leontes won his debut against 14 opponents Nov. 22 at Kyoto. Going about 1 1/4 miles, he won by 1 1/2 lengths.