Yuttitham became the first Japanese stakes winner for Justify after securing a narrow victory in the $298,147 Listed Oasis Stakes at Tokyo Racecourse, carrying the colors of Deep Impact’s owner Makoto Kaneko.
‣ Yuttitham became the first Japanese stakes winner for Coolmore America’s Triple Crown winner Justify, marking a significant achievement in Justify’s siring career with a victory in the $298,147 Listed Oasis S. at Tokyo Racecourse.
‣ Shadai Farm’s strategic acquisition of Yuttitham’s dam, Zipessa, for $1.25 million and the subsequent sale of Yuttitham for Â¥200 million ($1,815,520) at the 2021 JRHA Select Yearling Sale, showcases the high-value breeding and sales strategy in Japanese horse racing.
‣ Yuttitham’s victory not only highlights his potential on the racetrack with a record of 4-1-1 from eight starts and earnings of about $478,000 but also underscores Justify’s impact as a sire, with Yuttitham being one of his 27 worldwide stakes winners and contributing to his success in Japan.
(L) Listed 1600m $460k Oasis Stakes at Tokyo:
Won by 4h 16. YUTTITHAM (Justify x Zipessa 🇺🇸 (City Zip) under Daisuke Sasaki
Just beat 4c 13. PERRIERE (Henny Hughes)
YUTTITHAM now win 4 from 8, first Listed win for him and his sire JUSTIFY 🇺🇸 in Japan
— Graham Pavey (@LongBallToNoOne) April 20, 2024
Wearing the iconic colors that once shimmered around the legendary Deep Impact, Yuttitham etched his name in history. He clinched a nail-biting victory at Tokyo’s dirt track, making him Justify’s first Japanese stakes winner. The air was thick with anticipation that Saturday, the prize pool a whopping $298,147.
Starting from the outermost gate, the 4-year-old was quick on his feet. He surged forward, finding his rhythm in a tight third, the dirt flying beneath them. The crowd watched, breathless, as they thundered down the back straight, Yuttitham cutting a determined figure three deep.
As they neared the 600-meter mark, the tension was palpable. Yuttitham, still under a snug hold, was about to face his moment of truth. Perriere, with his own set of impressive wins, loomed large, threatening to steal the spotlight.
But, oh, Yuttitham wasn’t having any of it. With the finish line in sight, he dug deep, finding that extra gear. Between the roars of the crowd, he pushed ahead, his lead just enough to taste victory as they crossed the line. Omega Guiness, the crowd’s favorite, could only manage third, adding another twist to the tale.
Meanwhile, at Shadai Farm, there’s a sense of pride. Yuttitham’s dam, the celebrated Zipessa, was a vision when she raced. They’d paid a handsome $1.25 million for her, a bet that was starting to look like a bargain. Especially now, as Yuttitham’s victory shines a spotlight on her worth.
Kaneko, ever the astute investor, must be smiling. After shelling out a cool Â¥200 million at the yearling sale, Yuttitham’s win is a vindication of his faith. And let’s not forget, he didn’t stop there, investing in Zipessa’s lineage with the same fervor.
As for Yuttitham, this victory is just the beginning. He’s now one of Justify’s 27 stakes winners globally, a testament to his sire’s legacy. With a record that’s starting to look as impressive as his pedigree, the future looks bright.
And there you have it, folks. Yuttitham’s triumph at the Oasis Stakes is a story of grit, determination, and a dash of destiny. A moment that’ll be talked about for years to come, a testament to the magic of horse racing.
