Japanese Star Durezza Set for Juddmonte International Showdown
Durezza, a standout four-year-old from Japan, is ready to take on Europe’s elite in the highly anticipated Juddmonte International Stakes at York next week. Trained by Tomohito Ozeki and owned by Carrot Farm, Durezza has established himself as a versatile and formidable contender, winning five of his eight career starts, including the prestigious Kikuka Sho (Japanese St. Leger).
Despite his success over longer distances, Durezza’s team believes that his ideal racing range lies between 10 furlongs and a mile and a half, making the Juddmonte International a perfect fit. The race marks his first overseas venture, and his connections are eager to see how he measures up against Aidan O’Brien’s City Of Troy, the Derby winner and currently regarded as one of the best horses in Europe.
Yusuke Sai, racing manager for Northern Farm, which bred Durezza, expressed his excitement for the upcoming clash. "For me, the International Stakes is the best race in Europe, and we are excited about running – especially against City Of Troy, who looks the best horse in Europe right now," Sai said.
Durezza’s pedigree and past performances indicate that he has the class to compete at the highest level. A son of Duramente, a Japanese Derby winner who finished second in the Dubai Sheema Classic, Durezza has proven his mettle over various distances, showcasing both stamina and speed. His upcoming challenge at York is another step in a broader campaign that may include a bid for the Japan Cup later this year.
The horse has been acclimatizing in Newmarket, where his preparations have been fine-tuned under the watchful eye of his team. Regular jockey Christophe Lemaire, who guided Durezza to victory in the Japanese St. Leger, will be flying in to take the reins once again after missing the horse’s last outing due to injury.
"We have watched him carefully and he seems OK," Sai reported. "His main target is the Japan Cup, but choosing to race at York over 10 furlongs was deliberate. We believe York’s flat, left-handed track will suit him perfectly, and the cooler weather is ideal for him after struggling with the heat in Japan."
The Juddmonte International is shaping up to be a race of exceptional quality, with Maljoom, trained by William Haggas, also set to line up. Maljoom, who has impressed with strong finishes in the Queen Anne Stakes and the Sussex Stakes this summer, will be stepping up to 10 furlongs for the first time, adding further intrigue to the contest.
As Durezza prepares to join the likes of Agnes World and Deirdre as Japanese Group One winners in England, his connections are optimistic yet realistic about their chances. "We’re not saying we’re going to win, but everyone is happy with where he is right now," Sai concluded.
With his proven ability, impeccable breeding, and a team dedicated to international success, Durezza could well be a serious contender in one of Europe’s most prestigious races. All eyes will be on York next week as the Japanese raider aims to leave his mark on the global racing stage.
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