That's Damian Lane we're talking about who is on a temporary licence to ride in Japan.  He's a popular rider in Japan not just for his wins at home but also for success on Japanese horses abroad.

Anyhow yesterday's Derby saw Pax Ottomanica set sail ahead of the rest of the field and he stayed in front round the turn into the straight but Damian on Tastiera was poised and waiting for the signal to go and deliver his jockey's 13th Japanese Group win and his first classic.  Favourite Sol Oriens was alongside him but could not get passed and Heart's Concerto was the best of a bunch getting third.

Tastiera is from the first crop by Satono Crown who was also trained by Hori-sensei and his determined push to the line will have been noted.  He was able to reverse the placings of the Satsuki Sho, and thus there will be no triple crown for the boys this year.

Unlike the girls, who ran faster and deserve a more even split of the prize money!

There was a sad ending to the Derby when the lovely and talented Skilfing suffered what is described as a "cardiac event" and after finishing last had to be euthanised.  Very sad for all concerned and no matter how famous the race it is always devastating to lose a young horse.