Lemaire retains full faith in Almond Eye

Star Japanese runner returns after a break on Sunday.

Christophe Lemaire is confident Almond Eye can return to winning form in Sunday’s Grade One Victoria Mile at Tokyo racecourse.

The five-year-old was last seen when disappointing in the Arima Kinnen at Nakayama back in December, with her planned run in Dubai cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Regular partner Lemaire has not been able to partner Almond Eye in her work, but has received an upbeat bulletin from trainer Sakae Kunieda as he tries to get his stable star back on track.

Lemaire told Sky Sports Racing: “Unfortunately because of corona I was not able to go to the training centre to ride her, but I could see her trackwork and I had a chat with her trainer Mr Kunieda and he is very happy with the filly.

“She’s got stronger again in terms of physical condition and although it will be her first run this year, I think she will be able to put in a great performance.”

The Victoria Mile is restricted to fillies and mares and Lemaire expects Almond Eye to make her class tell.

Lemaire added: “She will face only fillies and mares on Sunday – some very good ones – but Almond Eye is a special horse, a champion horse, so I’m not afraid at all. I’m very confident to win the race actually.”

Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Almond Eye Christophe Lemaire Tokyo Victoria Mile

Latest