Japan bids to get back on winning trail in top flight as Moore jets to New York

This time two years ago Japan had the world at his feet when denying the 127-rated Crystal Ocean in York's Juddmonte International, but the five-year-old seeks his first top-level triumph since in Saratoga's Sword Dancer Stakes () on Saturday.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien and jockey Ryan Moore have never hidden their affection and admiration for the son of Galileo, who is capable of a poor performance, particularly when conditions are on the soft or easy side.

He did well to win Leopardstown's Group 3 Meld Stakes over nine furlongs last time and had Goodwood Cup and Ebor winners Trusehan and Sonnyboyliston behind him when victorious in a classy Ormonde Stakes at Chester in May. Moore was on board on both those occasions and has travelled to Saratoga to take the ride.

Watch Japan win the Juddmonte International in 2019

He should thrive back over a mile and a half in the Sword Dancer, which is one of six Grade 1s on a star-studded Saratoga card.

Representing O'Brien at the track is TJ Comerford, who said: "The last day in Leopardstown when he won, he was very good. Going a mile and an eighth he had to be at his quickest to win it and he did. He showed plenty of boot there and that was good for him. He's in very good form.

"After winning a Juddmonte International, he's on his way back I think. Hopefully he turns up on the day."

Essential Quality: Godolphin star is right where connections wantCredit: Al Bello

The jewel in Saratoga's crown is the Runhappy Travers Stakes (), the highlight of the track's historic two-month summer meeting and features Godolphin's Belmont Stakes hero Essential Quality.

His trainer Brad Cox said: "Our plan all along was to peak this summer in this spot – it's been our goal since the Kentucky Derby to have him at his best on Travers day. From a mental and physical standpoint, I feel he is right where we want him."

Read more:

Japan just does enough to bag the Meld Stakes at Leopardstown

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