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Sumi can be a matter of genetics as well as water condition. Most serious students who
select show quality koi to develop will focus on the kind of water to encourage growth
and good skin (soft). Many top notch sanke's do not "finish" till they are 6-8 years depending on the genetics. The harder the water the better to push the development
of the sumi but to the disadvantage of other important aspecs (skin) (beni). When in the hands of a professional breeder grooming a koi for show, the focus is on growth,both body shape and length. When the koi has achieved the zenith of it's ability, it is then
finished off and enter in a show. A favorite sanke of mine from sakai-isawa that took GC was 20 plus years old. In my mind the longer a koi takes to reach it's potential the longer it stays fit.
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