Ever since Docklands’ impressive win in the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes on the opening day of Royal Ascot this year, the Mile Championship in Japan has been firmly on his radar. This prestigious race sits neatly between two major mile contests: the Champions Mile at Ascot, where Docklands ran a creditable 4th, and the LONGINES Hong Kong Mile at Sha Tin on December 14.
Both Kyoto and Sha Tin now host 1600m races that attract the very best milers from around the globe, and Docklands is set to take his place in both.
Docklands’ journey to Kyoto, and indeed his entire international campaign, has been a significant logistical challenge. Fortunately, he is in the trusted hands of Laura and Michael, who have cared for him since he was a youngster. Even so, travelling to a country with a different language, different training protocols, and different racing procedures presents no shortage of hurdles.
Thankfully, the JRA in Kyoto has been exceptionally cooperative, particularly as Docklands is the sole international runner contesting the Mile Championship this year.
Docklands journey began in Newmarket UK on November 9, followed by 20 hours of travel before arriving in Tokyo, where he entered the quarantine facility. After five days there, he travelled by lorry for 11 hours to Kyoto for his final preparations ahead of Sunday’s race.
The stallion has handled every challenge with characteristic professionalism. Laura and Michael (and their boss back in Newmarket) are delighted with how he has travelled, behaved, and worked. He will have his final gallop this Thursday before lining up in the big race.
Around 14 of his owners will be on course next Sunday to continue sharing in the excitement that Docklands has delivered to his ownership and training group, over the past three years. Dual Royal Ascot victories, a Cox Plate start, and last year’s Hong Kong Mile have already provided unforgettable memories. Sunday’s race promises to add yet another chapter to this extraordinary adventure.
After Sunday, as his connections return to their homes, Docklands will wing his way to Hong Kong. There he will be greeted by David Eustace, Harry’s brother, who will add another layer of care for him as her prepares for the next challenge on December 14.