Japan holds on for narrow Meld Stakes verdict

PA Sport Reporters
July 15, 2021 5:45 pm

O’Brien runner takes Group Three honours at Leopardstown.

Japan just clung on in a thrilling three-way finish to claim the Green Room Meld Stakes at Leopardstown.

Aidan O’Brien’s charge was dropping back to nine furlongs for his Group Three assignment – the shortest trip he had faced since his juvenile days.

However, the five-year-old rose to the task, racing handily for Ryan Moore as Snapraeterea set out to make all under Shane Crosse, before assuming control inside the final two furlongs.

Japan back to winning ways!
A trip possibly short of his best but he clings on in the hands of Ryan Moore for the Aidan O’Brien team 🏇 pic.twitter.com/YTaId7LRjX
— Leopardstown RC (@LeopardstownRC) July 15, 2021

Japan tried to stride on, but Maker Of Kings and Sinawann were both finishing with purpose from behind, forcing a photo.

The 15-8 favourite prevailed by a short head on the line, with Sinawann a further neck back in third.

“I was happy with him coming back in trip, I was probably in front too early really,” said Moore.

Japan (second right) just got the better of Crystal Ocean in the 2019 Juddmonte International (Nigel French/PA)

“He was just waiting there and he found more when the second came to him.

“The ground is beautiful and he showed plenty of speed throughout. I just felt I was in front too early on him.”

Japan won both the Grand Prix de Paris and the Juddmonte International as a three-year-old and Paddy Power left him as a 20-1 shot to regain his title at York next month.