Kokura Kinen 2025: England Eyes’ Shocking Victory

🇯🇵 Kokura Kinen 2025: Underdog Filly England Eyes Shines Bright

On July 20th, the 61st Kokura Kinen (G3) was held over 2000 meters at Kokura Racecourse. England Eyes, a 5-year-old filly and the only female runner in the race, surged from the rear to secure her first graded stakes victory at surprising odds of 9th favorite.

Fan favorite Meriore failed to meet expectations, finishing 9th.

🎥 Watch the Race

📊 Race Summary

• Winner: England Eyes (5yo filly)
• Jockey: Fuma Matsuwaka
• Trainer: Sho Go Yasuda (Ritto)
• Time: 1:59.9 (firm)
• Pedigree: Kingman – Nuovo Record (by Heart’s Cry)
• Owner: Reiko Hara
• Breeder: Hara Reiko Racing Co. Ltd

🏁 Top 5 Finishers

1. England Eyes (9th favorite)
2. Shake Heart (3rd favorite)
3. Deep Monster (2nd favorite)
4. Rascan Bless (6th favorite)
5. All Saints (5th favorite)

🗣️ Jockey Comment

“I’m just really happy. I was able to save ground from the inside and she responded beautifully in the stretch.” – Fuma Matsuwaka

📌 Editor’s Note

England Eyes, a daughter of Nuovo Record and sired by Kingman, had struggled in past graded races but overcame her challenges with a well-timed ride. With this victory, her future looks bright in middle-distance or filly-restricted stakes.