Chalk up a win for the distaff side

Vodka knocks out Derby competition | The Japan Times Online:

"Disbelief and awe swept over the crowd as Vodka pulled out with 400 meters to go, swept forward and powered decidedly into the lead with a dozen strides left to the finish. The rest of the 18-strong field appeared to have lost its equilibrium as the daughter of 2002 Derby winner Tanino Gimlet went unchallenged to the line."

For the first time in 64 years, a filly has won the Nippon Derby. And, not just won it, Vodka finished three lengths ahead of Asakusa Kings which had led the field from the gate. This race was run at a distance of 2400 meters (almost a mile and half) in 2:24.5.