Logi Universe prevails in Japan Derby

Logi Universe powered to a four-length victory in the $3.5 million Tokyo Yushum (Japanese Derby) on Sunday after torrential rain had turned the ground soft at Tokyo Racecourse. In victory, the Kiyoshi Hagiwara-trained son of the Sunday Silence stallion and 2003 Japanese Derby winner Neo Universe avenged his lone career defeat in the Japanese 2000 Guineas as he beat Guineas winner and 11-10 favorite Unrivaled into 12th place.

The 6.70-1 Logi Universe was never worse than third in the 1 1/2-mile classic. He led at the quarter pole and drew off under a hand ride from Norihiro Yokoyama with Reach the Crown second and Antonio Barows third, a head behind the runner-up. The pacesetting NHK Mile Cup winner Jo Cappucchino gave way to finish last of 18, distanced by the field. The time for the 12 furlongs was 2:33.70.

After winning the 1 1/4-mile Yayoi Sho by 2 1/2 lengths on good ground, Logi Universe was sent off as the 1.70-1 favorite for the Japanese 2000 Guineas over the same distance but finished an unthreatening 14th on firm going. He is now 5-for-6 lifetine with earnings of $3,265,986.