Japanese superstar Liberty Island looks to return to her winning ways...

The daughter of Duramente returns to Meydan seeking redemption, though she’ll have to face none other than Romantic Warrior

Liberty Island is always a spectacle with her fluent, eye-catching action / DRC

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (Special to Turf Diario) – Saturday’s Dubai Turf (G1, 1800m, turf), one of the crown jewels of the Dubai World Cup (G1) meeting, promises a memorable renewal with six individual G1 winners set to clash, headlined by Hong Kong’s multiple champion Romantic Warrior (Acclamation). But much of the spotlight will also fall on Japan’s Liberty Island, who arrives with something to prove.

The daughter of Duramente, crowned Japan’s Triple Tiara winner in 2023, owns four G1 victories against fillies and was runner-up to the phenomenal Equinox (Kitasan Black) in last year’s Japan Cup (G1). Her international campaign began right here at Meydan 12 months ago, when she finished third in a slowly run Dubai Sheema Classic (G1), unleashing a powerful late run from midpack.

After a seven-month layoff, she returned in the Tenno Sho (Autumn) (G1), finishing a disappointing thirteenth—a performance largely dismissed due to circumstances. Her most recent start came in December’s Hong Kong Cup (G1), where she finished behind local hero Romantic Warrior at Sha Tin.

Now back in Dubai, Liberty Island will look to snap a winless streak dating back to October 2023, when she captured the Shuka Sho (G1), final leg of Japan’s filly Triple Crown.

“We’ve been able to prepare her well since her last start,” said regular rider Yuga Kawada. “She really enjoys the environment here in Dubai, although she might be a bit too relaxed.”

Her exercise rider put her through her paces Tuesday morning, and the team was pleased with her overall condition.

“The idea is for her to head to Hong Kong next for the QEII Cup. We believe the 2000 meters at Sha Tin will suit her perfectly. She’s in great shape,” the jockey added.