Japan and Ryan Moore (white cap) are pressed by Maker Of Kings © Photo Healy Racing
Japan had to pull out all the stops to justify favourtism in the Green Room Meld Stakes at Leopardstown this evening.
The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt was sent to post a 15/8 shot as he dropped back to nine furlongs in the Group 3 contest.
Ryan Moore tracked the leaders before sending his mount after front-runner Snapraeterea in the straight.
Japan grabbed the leader inside the final furlong but then had to repel the late surge of Maker Of Kings just prevailing by a short-head at the line.
The dual Group 1 winner was dropping slightly in class after weakening to finish sixth on soft ground in the Hardwicke Stakes, over a mile-and-a-half, at Royal Ascot last month.
“I was happy with him coming back in trip, I was probably in front too early really,” said Moore.
“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.”
