Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun

Derma Sotogake franked the form of the Cattleya the previous month when taking out the Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun at Kawasaki racecourse Dec. 14.

The son of dual Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) winner Mind Your Biscuits came into the race after successive victories on dirt, his most recent effort being a victory in an allowance Nov. 6 over subsequent Cattleya winner Continuar, and started third favorite.

Settling just behind midfield, Derma Sotogake had some ground to make up in the final stretch but lengthened admirably to just overhaul second-favorite Omatsuri Otoko at the post.

The win earned Derma Sotogake 20 points in the Japanese Road to the 2023 Kentucky Derby, and the series lead.

Omatsuri Otoko picked up eight points for finishing second, a length clear of the favorite Perriere, who took the lead at the top of the stretch but was unable to hold off the first two. Perriere picked up six points for finishing third.

Fourth-placed Hero Call picked up four points for finishing second, with early pacesetter Maruka Rapid holding on for fifth and two points.

By Alastair Bull