Japanese Superstar Wins World’s Best Racehorse Award, Equinox Rated 7lb Higher Than Ace Impact in Equinox vs Ace Impact Race – Racing Post

Equinox, the four-year-old racehorse, was recognized as the top-rated horse at 135 pounds, surpassing Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Ace Impact and Prince of Wales’s and Juddmonte International hero Mostahdaf at a ceremony in London. The Japan Cup was also honored as the world’s best race for the first time during the event. The jockey commented that while Equinox was rated at 135, he was not challenged the previous year, leaving room for speculation on his true potential. He emphasized that Equinox could have performed even better if pushed harder or a whip was used, but always prioritized the next race and didn’t push excessively after a win. Equinox was described as a “movie star” and a “superstar” due to his exceptional performances, displaying an aura and attitude that set him apart.

Equinox’s remarkable season included victories in the Sheema Classic, Takarazuka Kinen, and Tenno Sho (Autumn), which ranked among the top ten best races worldwide. Currently, Equinox resides at Shadai Stallion Station in Hokkaido where he stands alongside at a record-breaking opening fee of ¥20 million (approx. $140,000). His rider, Lemaire, labeled the Tetsuya Kimura-trained star as ‘the perfect racehorse’, expressing his enjoyment in riding him and the confidence he had in Equinox’s abilities. Lemaire’s role was to provide a good start and position for Equinox to fully exhibit his talent.

The other top-rated horses at the ceremony included Cody’s Wish, Do Deuce, Paddington, Titleholder, and White Abarrio, completing the leading pack on 124.