On Saturday at Nakayama the Flower Cup which is one of the key preps for the 1000 Guineas and is for 3yo fillies over 1800m saw Emu, whom as far as we can see has absolutely no connection with Australia, defeat Hip Hip Soul and Pulchritude. The winner is by Harbinger, the second Kitasan Black and the third Gun Runner.

Sunday saw the running of the Spring Stakes which is the trial for the 2000 Guineas and was over 1800m at the same track.  Bellagio Opera, a son of Lord Kanaloa won by 1 ¼ lengths from Ho O Biscuits and Metal Speed on 21.2.  The boys ran quite a bit faster than the girls so unlikely any of them will switch classes.

At Hanshin the Daishoten so Justin Palace defeat Boldog Hos with Breakup 31/1 third home.

Now off to Dubai!