The International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) has announced Equinox has been named the 2023 Longines World's Best Racehorse.
Equinox rating of 135 is the highest mark a Japanese horse has ever received under the current system (2023 Longines World's Best Racehorse), besting the 134 that El Condor Pasa earned in 1999.
Comments from the connections of Equinox are as follows.
Owner: Masashi Yonemoto, CEO of Silk Racing Co. Ltd.
"First of all, I would like to say what an honor it is to receive this award on such a wonderful occasion. And I'd like to share this joy with the breeder, training farm staff, stable staff, jockey, the approximately 300 investors, as well as with the many fans. All of Equinox's races were impressive, his victory in Dubai over the world's strongest horses, his two races this past fall, when after maturing over the summer, he returned for the Tenno Sho (Autumn) and the Japan Cup, and we once again were able to witness exquisite performances of grace and power. I am also aware that his performance in the Japan Cup that has received such accolades is not something that can be achieved overnight. And, I would like to express not only my gratitude, but also my great respect, to all those who have worked so hard to contribute to the advancement of horse-racing in Japan."
Trainer: Tetsuya Kimura
"To have had Equinox be named Longines World's Best Racehorse of 2023 makes me wonder, even now in this moment, if I'm dreaming. In last year's Japan Cup, Equinox's start was fabulous, he raced with the most beautiful strides in the world, and then, in the finish, he fought off his rivals with his tremendous stamina and pulled away at the finish line. There was always so much attention on him, but watching that race, it was very difficult for me to maintain my composure. And afterward, I felt, what more could anyone possibly ask of him after this?"
Jockey: Christophe Lemaire
"Every time I rode Equinox, there were always a great many expectations riding on me as well. But, it was always a joy to ride him and, as far as I was concerned, I was always determined to accomplish what needed to be done. I think he was a horse with great physical abilities and great mental abilities. He had amazing speed and a beautiful way of moving. Also, he was a very clever horse, and to break well, get a good position, and bring out his ability to the utmost was what I believed to be my job. I would also like to congratulate and extend my best wishes to the breeders who were able to bring into this world such a wonderful horse."
