Duramente is two thirds of the way to the Japanese Triple Crown but may not contest the final leg in favour of a trip to France for the Prix De L’Arc de Triomphe.

Duramente followed up his success in the G1 Satsuki Sho (2000 Guineas) in April by taking out the G1 Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) by a length and three quarters as a firm favourite in race record time.

With Mirco Demuro aboard, the son of King Kamehameha seized the lead at the top of the uphill stretch and drew clear from Satono Rosen, running the 2400m in a record 2:23.20, a tenth of a second faster than his sire's previous record time of 2:23.30 set in 2004 and subsequently equalled by Deep Impact in 2005.

Duramente is the 23rd horse to take the first two legs of Japan's classic series, which is ends with Kikuka Sho (Japanese St. Leger) over 3000m in October.

However Duramente's conections have their eyes on the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in early October over 2400m.

"The 3000m could be long for him, but it's hard to tell," Demuro said. "The owner and trainer will make that call."

Demuro, who won the 2003 Japanese Guineas and Derby with Neo Universe, was overwhelmed by Duramente's victory.

"I'm so full of joy and gratitude to have been able to accomplish this with such a powerful and talented colt,," said the Italian-born Demuro.

"There was a lot of pressure after having won the Satsuki Sho and being the race favorite.

"Duramente was rather worked up and keen but he was in a good position throughout the race and was under control. He was in gear and really strong to the finish."

Duramente has four wins and two seconds from six career starts for trainer Noriyuki Hori.

He was bred by for the Yoshida family’s Northern Racing from champion mare Admire Groove, a daughter of Sunday Silence.

Duramente is one of eight G1 winners by King Kamehameha, who stands at the Shadai Stallion Station in Hokkaido.