FOREIGN HORSES
<Comments taken during interview at Nakayama Race Course, April 13, 2006>
KARASI (IRE, g11. bay)
From E. Musgrove, trainer
"Considering the distance, he needs little more distance than Pegasus Jump Stakes. He raced very well finishing 3rd last year, and we were very happy him finishing 2nd this year."
"He's a fraction stronger than he was last year. We've been aiming for this particular race since it's such a prestigious race, and he has been training according to our plan. He has completed his training program well. We were confident going into the race; however, after seeing video's and the statistics of the Japanese horses, I've learned that we might be facing a stronger field this year. I am hoping we have a pretty good chance to win."
"The reason why KARASI is doing well at the age of 11 is because he has been looked after well. There is an Australian steeplechaser racing at the age of 13. I think that if you take a good care of them and are careful about how much to push of them, horses last for a long time."
"I believe the steeplechases in Japan and Oceania are similar, meaning they race on firmer ground. The environment is very different when compared with the heavy tracks in Europe. Steeplechasers in general don't have the speed that is seen here in Japan so you probably need more of a hurdle horse in Europe and the United States to suit style of Nakayama Grand Jump."
From B. Scott, jockey
"You can't have too much tactical plan going into the Nakayama Grand Jump. All I'm thinking at this moment is to just save ground and stay out of trouble. I'm just hoping for a clear run."
"As the defending champion, all I have to say is "Watch out TM Dragon! Here comes KARASI!"
MERLOS (NZ, g9. chestnut)
E. Musgrove, trainer
"We're very happy with MERLOS and his training so far. In the Pegasus Jump Stakes, he made a few mistakes on the turns and hurdles, but he's getting fit and ready for the Grand Jump."
"Although going was little soft today, it was perfect for KARASI, MERLOS would prefer an even softer going, so more rain might be good."
FONTERA (NZ, g8. bay)
K. Myers, trainer
"In last year's Grand Jump, unfortunately he had a fall in mid-race and disappointed the whole delegation from New Zealand who came out here to root for him. I'm sure that's not going to happen again."
"Since he's a year older, he's more mature and settled than last year."
"We've trained him here just like we have in New Zealand. This morning we breezed him for 2,400m's. We were a little bit disappointed with him at the line, but the going was heavy and a little slippery. We're sure he'll do better on Saturday."
"He can adjust to any kind of surface, but since the race is longer, a firm going would be better for him and help him over the longer distance."
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