Disappointing as the favorite in the Satsukisho, Logi Universe was able to salvage his reputation in the Japan Derby just over a month later answering fans' somewhat lesser expectations with a four-length win over fifth pick Reach the Crown.
The stands Sunday at Fuchu erupted with equally as many cheers as they did grumbles as the 18 colts crossed the line. Favorite Unbridled, winner in the Satsukisho, bore the boos as he flubbed the Derby with an 11th-place finish. The cheers on the other hand, though partly for second choice Logi Universe, were also in large part for veteran jockey Norihiro Yokoyama, 41, who managed to capture his first Derby in 15 tries, his first group 1 win in five years.
Excuses for the also-rans were within easy reach Sunday for the classic race's 76th running. Heavy rain from early afternoon had soaked the turf, turning the track condition to sloppy for the first Derby in 40 years. Prior to the race jockeys shook their heads when asked about the conditions, saying the ground was a mess and it was impossible to see. Fortunately, the rains nearly stopped by post time, in time for a rousing rendition of the national anthem by singer Saburo Kitajima, a national icon and racehorse owner himself.