Matenro Gale (Epiphaneia) confirmed he is one of Japan's leading classic contenders with an impressive victory in Saturday's Listed Wakaba S. at Hanshin Racecourse.

The Chiyono Terada-owned colt out of Woodbine Oaks winner Desert Ride (Candy Ride) garnered a first black-type victory after placing 2nd in the Gr3 Keisei Hai S. last out.

The Wakaba is a key trial for the Gr1 Satsuki Sho S. at Nakayama Racecourse on April 19th.

Racing over 2000m for the 4th time already in his career, the Kenji Nonaka trainee was taken a keen hold of out of the gate by jockey Kazuo Yokoyama. Saving ground to mid-stretch he advanced on cue, splitting horses and under a strong hand ride drawing off convincingly.

Lord Flier, another Satsuki Sho contender making his seasonal bow, held 2nd.

Sam-Son Farm homebred Desert Ride was acquired by Shimokobe Farm in foal to Authentic for $725,000 at Fasig-Tipton's 2020 November Sale. Matenro Gale is her first Shimokobe-bred winner.

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