Super Creek

The Stayer Who Defined an Era Alongside a Young Genius Jockey

In the annals of Japanese horse racing, few horses embody the spirit of endurance and legacy quite like Super Creek. Born into a bloodline considered unsuitable for Japanese turf, initially overlooked in the market, and plagued by physical setbacks, he rose to compete with—and sometimes defeat—the greats of his era. This is the story of a stayer who defined an era, and the young jockey whose career began beside him: Yutaka Take.

The Unwanted Colt with European Bloodlines

A Humble Beginning

Super Creek was foaled in 1985, sired by No Attention and out of a mare by Intermezzo—both European long-distance runners. At the time, such bloodlines were thought ill-suited to Japanese racing conditions. As a result, Super Creek failed to attract buyers and was eventually sold to an acquaintance of the breeder for the modest sum of 8.1 million yen.

A Hopeful Name

He was given the name "Super Creek," reflecting the owner’s hope that this modest stream of potential might one day become a mighty river.

A Delayed Start to His Racing Career

Super Creek's debut was delayed until December 1987 due to severe diarrhea during his two-year-old summer in Hokkaido. When he finally raced, he finished second, but quickly followed that with a win. His early jockey, Tabara, recognized his promise and referred to him as a possible “great talent.”

The Meeting with Yutaka Take

A Young Jockey on the Rise

After a couple more races, Super Creek was paired with a new jockey: a young Yutaka Take, then only in his second year of racing. Despite his youth, Take had already broken the rookie win record with 69 victories the previous year. This partnership would prove transformative for both horse and rider.

Derby Dreams and an Injury

With Derby ambitions ahead, Super Creek suffered a setback—breaking his left front leg during training. He was sidelined for six months.

The Road to the Kikka Sho

Trials and Setbacks

Upon his return, Super Creek placed third in the Kobe Shimbun Hai. He aimed to secure a spot in the prestigious Kikka Sho via the Kyoto Shimbun Hai, but multiple interferences during the race left him in sixth place. He lost his priority right to enter the Kikka Sho, placing 19th in prize money rankings when only 18 could run.

A Stroke of Luck and Loyalty

Yutaka Take refused to choose another horse, declaring that if Super Creek couldn’t run, he wouldn’t ride. Moved by his loyalty, another owner withdrew their horse, allowing Super Creek to enter.

Triumph at the Kikka Sho

Starting from the far outside in post 17, Super Creek skillfully moved to the inside rail to save distance. With a powerful final surge, he won by an impressive five lengths. It marked not only his first Grade 1 win, but also Take’s first G1 victory—at just 19 years and 8 months old, the youngest jockey to win a classic race at the time.

Rise Among Legends

Meeting Oguri Cap and Soccer Boy

In the Arima Kinen, Super Creek faced future legends Oguri Cap and Soccer Boy for the first time. Though he crossed the line in third, he was disqualified for blocking another horse in the stretch.

A New Era: The Big Three

After missing the spring season due to muscle soreness, Super Creek returned in the fall of 1989. Alongside Oguri Cap and newcomer Inari One, he became part of the celebrated "Big Three" of Japanese racing.

Historic Battles and Classic Wins

Autumn Glory

• Kyoto Daishoten: Returned with a win and set a new race record.
• Tenno Sho (Autumn): Beat both Oguri Cap and Inari One, securing his second Grade 1 title.

Japan Cup and Arima Kinen

• Japan Cup: Finished fourth, unable to match the world-record pace set by Horlicks and Oguri Cap.
• Arima Kinen: Took the lead, but was overtaken by Inari One in the stretch to finish second.

Cementing His Legacy

Spring and Autumn Tenno Sho Champion

In April, Super Creek won the Osaka Hai and then captured the Tenno Sho (Spring) by fending off a late charge from Inari One. This made him the first horse in history to win the Tenno Sho in both spring and autumn.

A Quiet Farewell

Super Creek was scheduled to run in the Takarazuka Kinen, but muscle issues led to his withdrawal. Though he returned to win the Kyoto Daishoten for a second consecutive year, he was later diagnosed with ligamentitis and retired from racing.

• Career Record: 8 wins from 16 starts
• Grade 1 Victories: 3
• Notable Traits:
  • European-bred, yet effective over 2000m
  • A rare blend of speed and stamina
  • Fierce rival to fan-favorite Oguri Cap

Post-Retirement and Legacy

As a stallion, Super Creek’s impact was limited—his pedigree did not translate into producing elite offspring. He passed away in 2010, largely forgotten by the racing world.

Yet his influence on Japanese racing is undeniable. He played a critical role in launching Yutaka Take’s legendary career. Take has often cited Super Creek as one of the most important horses in his life. Even today, at 56, Take remains active at the highest level, a living testament to their shared legacy.

Watch the Story of Super Creek

Conclusion

Super Creek may not have been born a star, but he forged his place among legends through grit, timing, and the power of an exceptional partnership. His story reminds us that greatness often comes from the most unexpected places—and that loyalty between horse and rider can change the course of racing history.

If you're eager to explore more about Japan’s legendary racehorses, stay tuned for upcoming stories that dive deeper into the golden age of Japanese racing.