On the opening day of Keeneland’s Fall Meet on Friday, Qatar Racing and Mrs. Fitriani Hay’s horse Nakatomi will make his fourth appearance in the 174th running of the Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix (G2). The 7-year-old aims to secure his second straight win in this historic race, having finished second in both 2023 and 2024. As the oldest stakes race in the United States, the Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix has long been a key event in Nakatomi’s yearly campaign.
A part of Nakatomi’s routine includes a winter break at a nearby farm where he receives special care from 13-year-old Elle-Marie Galvin, daughter of Qatar’s U.S. Racing Manager, Fergus Galvin. A skilled rider herself, Elle-Marie often rides Nakatomi bareback, in addition to grooming and spending quality time with him. Trainer Wesley Ward frequently shows photos of Elle-Marie interacting with Nakatomi in the field and stall, highlighting their close bond.
“Nakatomi is definitely her favorite among the Qatar Racing horses,” Fergus Galvin noted. This winter respite seems to benefit Nakatomi greatly, contributing to his impressive record of seven wins, four second-place finishes, and seven thirds from 27 starts, amassing earnings of $2 million. His achievements include a win in the 2024 Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap (G1) at Saratoga, three Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) appearances, and three trips to Dubai for the Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) Sponsored by Nakheel.
Ward credits Nakatomi’s extended career to these breaks from racing. “Fergus and his family, especially his daughter, truly understand him,” Ward said. “Horses are like dogs in how they connect with people. When Elle-Marie approaches the fence, I’m sure Nakatomi comes running. Those winter breaks help keep him mentally fresh.” Ward also believes Nakatomi’s longevity has earned him a loyal fan base. “A horse that’s been around this long, winning over $2 million and many races at Keeneland, naturally develops a following—much like long-standing athletes in football or basketball who gain devoted fans.”
Nakatomi’s upcoming race is scheduled to be the Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Keeneland on October 31. — Liane Crossley
This article originally appeared in the Paulick Report’s News section on September 30, 2026.
Fan Take: Nakatomi’s story underscores the importance of thoughtful horse management and the deep relationships that form between horses and their human caretakers. For horse racing fans, his continued success and presence on the track highlights how dedication to a horse’s well-being can sustain a long, exciting career that enriches the sport’s history and fan engagement.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
