Docklands (GB, H5)

- jogged 1-1/2 laps, cantered 200m, galloped 1,200m, cantered 1/3 lap and walked 2/3 lap right-handed on turf course
(exercised from 7:07 AM to 7:40 AM, ridden by Michael Vokins)

“The horse looked very relaxed and in very good spirits after the gallop today. We are very happy with him. I thought he pulled up very fresh and well, like a horse that’s hopefully ready to run his best on Sunday.
He’s owned by very sporting owners in Australia and they are very keen to campaign him internationally, not just in Europe, and we decided to come here because we felt the conditions of the Japan race would really suit him. We’re very keen to be a big supporter of Japanese racing, it’s probably the best in the world and we want to showcase him at the very best meetings that we can.
Regarding the fast track in Japan, he’s raced on fast tracks a lot in his career. I thought it looked very similar to Deauville where he ran well this year (Prix Jacques le Marois). Ascot was quick as well, so although it is firm, he’s run some very good races on that track and it’s not a concern for us.
The mile trip is perfect for the horse. He has lots of pace and stays the mile very well. So we’re very confident we’re in the right race on Sunday.
We respect all the Japanese runners. Soul Rush, in particular, is the toughest component, I think. His performance against Romantic Warrior in the Dubai Turf was obviously very strong. He’s a champion group-one miler, so we’re well aware of how tough the race will be on Sunday and we're just privileged to have a horse good enough to try and compete.
Dockland’s best asset is that he’s mentally very tough and he’s able to absorb mid-race pressure. He travels very strongly through his races and finishes off well. It gives the jockey plenty of options for the second half of the race.
The ideal draw would be 10 and lower would be ideal, but it looks to me on the outer loop at Kyoto the draw is less of an issue than on the inner loop. And quick ground, firm ground would be our preference.
We look forward to seeing the fans on Sunday. Back home, if you shout very loud, they run faster, so shout very loudly, please!”

(comments taken from Henry Eustace)

“After the gallop this morning, I think he felt as good as he’s ever felt, similar to what we felt before Ascot (Queen Anne Stakes). So, I couldn’t be happier with him going into the race. I can’t wait for Sunday.
He’s raced on firm tracks before, so we’re not losing any sleep over it.
I think one of his strongest points would probably be his will to win. He will really try for the jockey. So, I think that’s probably what helps him get the job done. He knows when he’s in the race and when to try his hardest, and he won’t back down from a fight.
We look forward to seeing the fans at the racetrack and I hope there are lots of scarves and things with his name on.”

(comments taken from Michael Vokins)

“Today, after he’s galloped, he looks fantastic. He’s really comfortable and happy in himself and ready to go for Sunday.
What I really love about him is that he has a really big heart and he just always tries his best. He doesn’t want to disappoint and he’s just been a great horse for us.
Thank you for looking after us and we hope the fans will be cheering him on Sunday.”

(comments taken from Laura Pike)