A Momonofu Has Become a Derby-Winning Jockey

The 93rd running of the Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) was held on Sunday at Tokyo Racecourse, and the favorite, Rob Chen (3-year-old colt), won after prevailing in a fierce stretch duel. The victory completed a classic double following his triumph in the Satsuki Sho.

His rider,Matsuyama Kohei , 36, achieved his long-awaited first Japanese Derby victory in his 18th year as a jockey. It came in his 11th Derby attempt and just before reaching the milestone of 14,000 career rides.

After crossing the finish line, Kohei removed his cap during the victory lap and bowed deeply to the fans. Tears could be seen in his eyes.

As mentioned in previous articles, Kohei has long been known as a dedicated Momonofu, since the group's early days.

At one point, he was part of "Team Momoclo," a group centered around young jockeys, and he was even introduced as a "Momonofu jockey" on the official social media accounts of the group.

In 2015, he appeared as a guest on MCZ's regular television program "Momoiro Tsurube," where he shared the stage with the members of Momoiro Clover Z.