Tokyo Tycoon makes emphatic spring statement
Last season’s remarkable two-year-old, Tokyo Tycoon, demonstrated that he’s well on his way to achieving his ambitious goals for this season when saluting in the Listed El Roca-Sir Colin Meads Trophy (1200m) .
Trained by Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, Tokyo Tycoon left an indelible mark in his juvenile campaign, securing five consecutive victories, including the Group 1 Sistema Sakes (1200m). However, his triumph in that race was later marred by disqualification due to a swab irregularity.
Despite somewhat lackluster trial performances leading up to his season opener, punters maintained their confidence in Tokyo Tycoon’s ability to outshine his three-year-old counterparts.
They backed him as the overwhelming favourite at -111.11, and the colt didn’t disappoint under the guidance of jockey Opie Bosson.
During the race, Bosson positioned Tokyo Tycoon towards the back of the field, biding his time until the 600m mark.
At that point, he unleashed the colt’s speed, allowing him to surge forward around the home bend. Tokyo Tycoon responded with an immediate burst of acceleration, seizing the lead and ultimately winning by nearly two lengths. Burn To Shine and the maiden galloper Rezeki put up a valiant effort, with the latter managing to fend off Codigo for third place.
Mark Walker, Tokyo Tycoon’s trainer, had unwavering confidence in his charge’s readiness for this race, regardless of his lackluster trial performances.
He commended Opie Bosson’s race tactics, emphasizing that Tokyo Tycoon is a true racehorse who shines when it matters most.
Looking ahead, Walker revealed that Tokyo Tycoon’s next target would be the Group 2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas (1400m) on September 30 at Hastings.
While he’s currently a co-favourite at +300 for the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) in Riccarton, Walker hinted that they might consider another feature event.
With improvements expected as Tokyo Tycoon’s coat further develops and more sunshine graces his back, the Karaka Million 3YO (1600m) at Ellerslie in January, with its substantial purse of $1.5 million, could be an enticing option.
This victory marked the first stakes success for the Walker and Bergerson training partnership, who have already established themselves as frontrunners in the National premiership, just one month into the 2023/24 season.