Yutaka Take rode Danon Cube in a thrilling race at Hakodate on July 5, 2026.
The legendary jockey finished second to Shonan Galleon, a Flightline colt.
What happened?
Shonan Galleon, purchased for ¥210 million, made his career debut in an 1800-meter newcomers' contest.
He took command at will, edging effortlessly away to stop the timer in 1:47.6.
Why it matters for Yutaka Take
Yutaka Take was the chief pari-mutuel protagonist at 5-1, riding Danon Cube.
The filly showed the way through the opening 800 meters in a reasonable :48.1.
What comes next?
Shonan Galleon's next race could be the G3 Sapporo Nisai Stakes on September 5.
The winner is the third overall winner for his freshman sire, Flightline.
The bay colt shares interesting pedigree symmetry with Flightline's 'TDN Rising Star' presented by Hagyard Flight Command.
His dam sire Full Mast is a son of Mizzen Mast.
Shonan Galleon was drawn gate one and was settled in mid-field by jockey Katsuma Sameshima.
Danon Cube opened up a sizable advantage in the hands of Yutaka Take down the backstraight.
Shonan Galleon was slipped a bit of rein and was poised to strike as the stretch loomed.
Given a squeeze by Sameshima with about 200 meters to travel, Shonan Galleon easily gathered up the front-runner.
The winning margin was 2 1/2 lengths, and the final time shaved 0.5 seconds off the previous 2-year-old record.
“He has the makings of a star,” said Sameshima.
Shonan Galleon is the first produce for his dam, Argentina's champion 2-year-old filly of 2022.
The dam has Group 1 successes on both dirt and turf.
The colt's next appearance will be closely watched, given his impressive debut.
Yutaka Take's ride on Danon Cube was notable, despite finishing second.