Urban Chic Shines at Japan's St. Leger Finale in Kikuka Sho

Urban Chic, a 3-year-old colt sired by Suave Richard, showcased an impressive performance at Kyoto on Sunday, securing a decisive 2½-length victory in the Kikuka Sho, the final leg of Japan's Triple Crown.

After a calm start from post 13, Urban Chic (5-2) maintained a steady position in the midfield as Meisho Tabaru (8-1) set a leisurely pace. Gradually, he began to ascend the ranks, overtaking the favoured Danon Decile (9-5) prior to the backstretch. As the race intensified nearing the final turn, Urban Chic accelerated, catching Admire Terra (22-1) and quickly distancing himself from the competition to clinch the classic race for 3-year-olds in Japan.

Winning jockey Christophe Lemaire remarked, “The colt is never quick out of the gate, and the race was 3,000 metres, so I let him find a good rhythm. He matured well and proved his potential for future Grade 1 races.” Urban Chic finished the 1¾-mile race in a time of 3:04.1 on good turf, marking his transition to a prominent contender in the racing scene.

Redentor (6-1) managed to close in for second place, edging out Admire Terra, who completed the race in third. Despite a strong start, Danon Decile faded to sixth after showing promise early on. Urban Chic’s victory marks a significant achievement as trainer Ryo Takei celebrated his first Grade 1 win.