Actor Takasugi Mahiro, who plays a jockey in the TBS Sunday Theatre drama "The Royal Family" (Sundays at 9pm), appeared as a presenter at the awards ceremony for the G1 horse racing event "The Longines Prix 45th Japan Cup" held at Tokyo Racecourse (Fuchu, Tokyo) on November 30th.
The Swiss watch brand Longines served as the official partner and timekeeper of the Japan Cup. Takasugi presented a Longines watch to those involved in the race, in recognition of the first-place finish by Carandagan and his jockey Michael Barzalona.
After the award ceremony, Takasugi commented, "I had seen a lot of people at the race from the stands, but when I stood on the podium and looked out, I was surprised by the number of people there, which I didn't get to experience from the stands. It was exciting to think of the jockeys and horses competing in such a place."
When asked about her role in "The Royal Family," she recalled, "It's been five or six years since I last rode a horse, so it's been a while since I last practiced riding a horse. I was able to act under the guidance of teachers from the horse racing school. The practice was hard, but it was the most fun I've ever had."
He said that this year has been a "challenging year," adding, "Playing the role of a jockey was a real challenge. This time, with 'The Royal Family,' there were moments when I had to do more than I could do and beyond my capabilities, so I did it with the feeling that I had to go beyond my limits. I would like to come to the racetrack privately next year."
Ichiro, who played for the Seattle Mariners in Major League Baseball and is currently a special assistant to the Mariners' chairman and instructor, also appeared as a presenter at the awards ceremony.
