Charyn's final race could be in Japan’s prestigious Mile Championship next month, depending on his condition, according to trainer Roger Varian. The Dark Angel colt has enjoyed a stellar season, beginning with a win at Doncaster on the opening day of the Flat turf season and securing four more victories across seven starts, never finishing worse than second. His crowning achievement came with a third Group One win in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot, solidifying his position as Europe’s top miler.
Connections are eyeing the Mile Championship at Kyoto on November 17 as the ideal finale before Charyn retires to owner Nurlan Bizakov’s stud in France. Varian explained that Japan is the preferred option due to the timeline and prestige of the race. The Breeders’ Cup was ruled out as it falls too soon after Ascot, while Hong Kong is too late for Charyn’s scheduled transition to stud duties.
“We’ve been planning for Japan, but it will depend on his well-being. If he’s in good shape, we’d love to take him,” said Varian. “It’s a prestigious race, but the horse’s condition is our priority. He’s come out of Ascot well, and we’ll assess him in the coming weeks.”
Charyn's career swansong could mark an exciting end to an already remarkable season if all goes well with his preparation for the Far East adventure.