TRADING Leather will attempt to become only the second Irish-trained horse to win the Japan Cup (6.55am) tomorrow.

Few from this country have tried to secure the €1.8 million Tokyo prize since Stanerra’s shock success for owner-trainer Frank Dunne in 1983. Ridden by Brian Rouse, the mare won by two heads in a tight three-way finish.

Winner of the Irish Derby last year but winless in four starts so far this term, Trading Leather was reportedly in good form this week. The trainer’s representative Pat O’Donovan told local media: “He’s in good form and he’s moving well. He’s travelled very well also. It’s not too cold and not too warm - the climate is perfect.

“He was trained specifically for this race. He’s had a light season and, since his last start in September, he regularly did some fast work once a week. He was very fit coming here, so all we want to do is maintain his fitness.

“The track here is a good galloping track which he likes. With a slight climb as well, it’s probably similar to Leopardstown, even though it’s bigger - we have no concerns about the track and he needs quick ground.”

Kevin Manning, who has partnered Trading Leather in all 15 of his races to date, takes the ride on the four-year-old.

Luca Cumani’s Alkaased was the last foreign raider to win the Japan Cup nine years ago. Local star Gentildonna has won the last two runnings and, with Ryan Moore on board, goes for the hat-trick though another filly, Harp Star, is the likely favourite.

Hiroyoshi Matsuda’s filly was last seen finishing a solid sixth of 20 in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp, when staying on strongly after being given plenty to do, and is expected to be an even more formidable foe back in familiar surroundings.

Previously successful in the Group 1 Japanese 1000 Guineas and the Group 2 Sapporo Kinen, the daughter of Deep Impact also boasts a creditable second in the Japanese Oaks at this course.

Impressive Dubai Duty Free victor Just A Way is set to be another leading contender for the local racing fans to cheer on. Tenno Sho (Autumn) winner Spielberg and the three-year-olds, classic winning colts One And Only and Isla Bonita, make up an incredibly strong local team.

The European challenge is strengthened by German raider Ivanhowe, who will bid to emulate compatriot Protectionist’s famous triumph in the Melbourne Cup.