Japanese owner has grand plan

ALAN SMITH

A Japanese businessman is preparing to make the largest investment in European racing since the Maktoum family became invoved in the sport 20 years ago.

Terunobo Nakao, whose only experience of racing in Europe consists of one visit to Ascot, plans to develop a 200-horsepower string from a base on the Curragh. He has exchanged contracts on the 140-acre Friarstown Stud and Stables and negotiations are at an advanced stage for him to acquire another substantial property nearby.

Liam Browne is to be installed as Nakao's trainer, overseeing a 160-box racing operation and a breeding project. Browne will be given unlimited funds to buy yearlings and will select British trainers to continue the careers of Curragh-nurtured horses.

Nakao said: "We could eventually have as many as 250 horses. I appreciate the size of the task but I am in no hurry. My dream is to see good horses carrying my colours worldwide."