Japanese Triple Crown Contender 'Finger' Challenges Elite Field at Pacific Classic
The Rising Sun Meets the Golden Coast: Finger's American Dream at the Pacific Classic
A Champion's Unprecedented Leap: From Japanese Dominance to American Shores
The stage is now set for the 36th installment of the Pacific Classic, the richest event in Western horse racing, boasting a prize of $1 million. Among the formidable lineup of eleven contenders, one participant stands out: Finger. This three-year-old son of Gun Runner has made the considerable journey across the Pacific Ocean, having already secured victories in the initial two legs of Japan's Dirt Triple Crown. After an illustrious career contested exclusively on Japanese soil, Finger is poised to confront local adversaries and extend his three-year-old campaign onto American racetracks.
Bridging Continents: Finger's American Pedigree and Japanese Heritage
While Finger's racing career and birthplace are firmly rooted in Japan, his lineage traces back to American racing excellence. His mother, Estilo Talentoso, achieved Grade 3 success and was twice placed in Grade 1 races within the United States. She was subsequently acquired by Japanese owners for a substantial $600,000 at the 2021 Fasig-Tipton November sale, a transaction that infused American racing blood into Finger's distinguished pedigree.
Ascension Through the Ranks: Finger's Dominant Japanese Performances
Under the expert guidance of trainer Hiroyasu Tanaka and the skilled hands of jockey Keita Tosaki, Finger's ascent through the Japanese racing hierarchy commenced with a stunning 9 1/2-length maiden victory. Just two and a half weeks later, he returned to Funabashi Racecourse in Chiba Prefecture to claim the Bluebird Cup (G3), triumphing over his rivals by 1 1/2 lengths across approximately 1 1/8 miles. Although he faced a setback with a second-place finish in the Keihin Hai, he swiftly redeemed himself by defeating his rival, Rock Ptarmigan, in the Haneda Hai. This pivotal win earned him a spot in the Tokyo Derby, where he further solidified his dominance by leading from start to finish to win by 1 1/4 lengths, securing the second leg of Japan’s Dirt Triple Crown.
A Crossroads Moment: The Strategic Decision to Challenge International Competition
With the Japan Dirt Classic still on the horizon in October, Tanaka and the ownership group were presented with a critical choice: either continue on the well-trodden path towards a potential Triple Crown sweep in Japan or embark on an entirely new international challenge. They ultimately opted for the latter, driven by confidence from his Bluebird Cup performance and particularly impressed by his strong showing in the Tokyo Derby, where he effectively controlled the pace from the outset.
Fulfilling a Dream: Tanaka's Long-Held Ambition for Del Mar
Instead of awaiting the Japan Dirt Classic in October, the connections shifted their focus to the United States and the Pacific Classic at Del Mar. This decision provided Finger with an invaluable opportunity to measure his abilities against an international field, marking a pivotal new chapter in his three-year-old campaign. Trainer Tanaka expressed that racing at Del Mar had been a personal aspiration since his visit in 2023, a goal partially realized when Rousham Park placed second in the Breeders’ Cup Turf two years prior. The continuous invitations to the Pacific Classic, Del Mar's premier event, ultimately solidified the decision to compete.
Peak Condition: Finger's Meticulous Preparation and Arrival in America
Finger's final preparations for his American debut were meticulously carried out at the Miho Training Center in Japan, under the supervision of assistant trainer Toshihiko Hokari. His last significant workout on August 13 saw him cover six furlongs in 1:23.20. Exercise rider Akiko Yamazaki noted his mental fortitude and willingness to perform, observing that he seemed to be in even better physical condition than before his Tokyo Derby triumph. Upon arrival at Del Mar, Finger quickly adapted, showing a robust appetite, which his barn assistant playfully attributed to his "American genes."
The Ultimate Test: Confronting a Formidable Field at the Pacific Classic
The upcoming Pacific Classic promises a highly competitive and fast-paced contest. Finger will face formidable eastern front-runners like Navajo Warrior and Forged Steel from Saffie Joseph, Jr.'s stable, as well as Knightsbridge from Bill Mott’s barn. His team in Japan had diligently worked to refine his ability to close from off the pace. Trainer Tanaka emphasized Finger’s key strengths: his exceptional stamina and his capacity to unleash an additional burst of speed even after maintaining a lead. He plans to leverage these attributes, ensuring Finger races prominently near the front. This race is more than just his American debut; it is an opportunity for Finger to prove himself against some of the best dirt horses in the west, with a potential automatic qualification for the Breeders’ Cup Classic at stake. The 36th Pacific Classic is scheduled as the 10th race of an 11-race program, with an approximate post time of 9:45 p.m. EDT.