Jockey Kawata Tanaka Earns “S” Rating in Pre-Departure Training with Nihonpiro Key for Mentor’s Group Race Victory at Oita Racecourse

A young Japanese jockey, Kanta Taguchi, is making waves in the racing world. Before embarking on a French training stint, he aims to honor his mentor by winning a prestigious race aboard Nihonpiro Key, their shared mount. Can the duo clinch victory at the Oita Racecourse and secure a coveted stakes triumph? Despite a potential fine, Taguchi’s determined response may just captivate racing enthusiasts.

Kenta Taguchi’s Pursuit of Success: From Apprentice to Rising Star

Overcoming Obstacles: Taguchi’s Journey to the Jockey License

Kenta Taguchi, a 20-year-old jockey, has already made a significant impact in the world of Japanese horse racing. Despite facing initial challenges, Taguchi’s unwavering determination and passion for the sport have propelled him to new heights. Born into a family with deep roots in the industry, Taguchi initially aspired to become a professional baseball player. It wasn’t until he witnessed the thrilling performance of Swaps Lila at the 2017 Japanese Derby that he decided to pursue a career as a jockey.

Debut and Early Achievements: Taguchi’s Promising Start

Taguchi’s journey to the jockey’s license was not without its obstacles. After failing to gain admission to the Jockey Training School in 2018, he spent a year working and living at the Mitaka Bajio Park while continuing his studies. His perseverance paid off, as he successfully passed the entrance exam in 2019 and joined the 39th class of the Jockey Training School. Taguchi’s debut race on March 4, 2023, at Hanshin Racecourse, saw him finish second aboard Kuno Crystal, setting the stage for his impressive rise.

Breakthrough Performances and Jockey License Acquisition

Taguchi’s early success continued, as he secured his first victory on March 26, 2023, at Hanshin Racecourse, riding Let’s Go Rose. His impressive performances continued, with Taguchi earning his jockey license on February 2023, becoming the first child of experienced jockeys to achieve this milestone in central racing. In his debut year, Taguchi amassed an astounding 35 wins, establishing himself as an exceptional young talent in the industry.

Mentorship and Aspirations: Taguchi’s Pursuit of Greatness

Taguchi’s bright personality and genuine nature have endeared him to both his colleagues and fans. Eager to continue his growth, Taguchi has decided to embark on a two-month training stint in France, seeking to learn from the unique approaches to racing in the country. His strong bond with his mentor, trainer Yuki Ohashi, is evident, as Taguchi aspires to secure a Group race victory with Nihonpiro Kief, the horse under Ohashi’s care.

The Upcoming Challenge: Taguchi’s Pursuit of the Chukyo Kinen

Taguchi’s next challenge will be the Chukyo Kinen on July 21st, where he will ride the experienced Nihonpiro Kief. The duo’s past performances at the Chukyo Kinen, including two second-place finishes, have garnered significant attention. Taguchi’s growth as a jockey, combined with Nihonpiro Kief’s consistent form, make this pairing a formidable contender for the prestigious race.

Embracing the Future: Taguchi’s Unwavering Determination

Kenta Taguchi’s journey exemplifies the bright future of Japanese horse racing. His unwavering determination, coupled with his natural talent and mentorship, have propelled him to the forefront of the industry. As he embarks on his overseas training and continues to pursue his dreams, Taguchi’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring jockeys and fans alike.

Q&A: Kenta Taguchi’s Triumph: Honoring His Mentor

Q: What is Taniguchi Kanta’s background?

A: Taniguchi Kanta was born on December 10, 2003 in Hashima Town, Gifu Prefecture. He comes from a horse racing family, with his father Teruhiko being a former jockey and his mother Megumi also having experience in the industry. However, Taniguchi initially wanted to become a professional baseball player when he was younger.

Q: How did Taniguchi become a jockey?

A: Taniguchi’s interest in horse racing was sparked when he attended the 2017 Japanese Derby and was impressed by the performance of Swear Richira. He then decided to pursue a career as a jockey, though his path was not easy. He failed the entrance exam for the jockey school in 2018 due to his focus on baseball, but persisted and was finally able to enroll in 2019, becoming part of the 39th class of students.

Q: What has Taniguchi accomplished so far in his career?

A: Taniguchi obtained his jockey license in February 2023, becoming the first child of experienced jockeys to do so at the central racecourse. He had a strong debut year, winning a total of 35 races across both central and regional racecourses, and even had his first Grade 1 ride in the Hanshin Juvenile Fillies in December 2023.

Q: What is Taniguchi’s upcoming plan?

A: After the Kokura races this weekend, Taniguchi will be traveling to France for a two-month training stint. Prior to his departure, he is hoping to win the Chukyo Kinen on Sunday with his mentor’s horse, Nihonpiro Kief. Taniguchi is eager to repay his mentor and achieve his first graded stakes victory.

Video: [Title: Kenta Taguchi to repay his mentor before studying abroad in France? Receives “S” rating in final workout with Nihonpiro Key with his mentor, aiming for a graded stakes win! Wins at Oita Racecourse but receives a fine? However, his subsequent response…]