4th Formalhaut Stakes
A Deep Dive into the G3 Two-Year-Old Fillies Showdown
Date
Nov 30, 2025
Venue
Saga Racecourse
Track
1400m Dirt
Category
G3, 2-y-o Fillies
Key Contenders
Sakidori Tokken
Saga
Pedigree: A potent mix of To The World’s dirt suitability and Seeking the Dia’s sprint power, ideal for Saga’s demanding track.
Performance: Perfect in-the-money record (4W, 2S). Showcased versatile come-from-behind ability and holds a top-class 1400m time of 1:31.6.
Jockey: Tsubasa Sasagawa. The engagement of this top Ohi jockey signals immense confidence and strategic intent from the stable.
Top All-Rounder
Impulse Bella
Hyogo
Pedigree: A blue-blooded combination of US speedster Drefong and Deep Impact, promising explosive power and absolute speed.
Performance: Undefeated in 2 starts. Narrowly beaten by JRA rivals in her last race, proving her high-level ability. Her front-running style is a major asset.
Jockey: Tomohiro Yoshimura. Hyogo’s champion jockey continues the partnership, bringing national-level skill to the saddle.
Explosive Speedster
Pharma Dol
Ohi
Pedigree: By Japan Cup winner Cheval Grand out of a Kurofune mare, suggesting resilience and stamina over pure speed.
Performance: Highly experienced in competitive South Kanto races. Could thrive if the race turns into a grueling test of stamina.
Jockey: Manato Tobita. A strategic pairing, combining an outsider’s power with a talented local jockey’s intimate course knowledge.
Stamina Dark Horse
Hakuaiduman
Saga
Pedigree: American Patriot x Fuji Kiseki points to a classic “front-running and holding on” type, perfectly suited to Saga’s tight turns.
Performance: Very consistent record with a blistering 1:31.4 victory in her last 1400m race. Potentially the fastest in the field.
Jockey: Shinnosuke Ishikawa. Expect an aggressive, pace-setting ride that could see her dominate from the start.
Pace Dominator
Sarasa Challenge
Kawasaki
Pedigree: Mind Your Biscuits and Manhattan Cafe genes provide a blend of power and stamina for tough races.
Performance: Graded race experience, finishing second in the Sonoda Princess Cup (G3). A proven contender at this level.
Jockey: Isao Yamaguchi. The legendary Saga jockey’s presence is a huge advantage, potentially unlocking a surprise victory.
Veteran’s Choice
Data at a Glance
| Horse Name | Best Time | Form | Track Fit | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sakidori Tokken | 9/10 | 9/10 | 10/10 | 28 |
| Impulse Bella | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 26 |
| Hakuaiduman | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 26 |
| Sarasa Challenge | 8/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 25 |
| Pharma Dol | 8/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 25 |
Saga 1400m Dirt
Deep Sand & Power: Saga’s track is notoriously deep, demanding significant power and stamina. Horses that can handle a heavy, tiring surface have a distinct advantage.
Tight Turns & Agility: The course features tight turns, placing a premium on cornering agility. Horses must maintain momentum through the bends to be competitive.
Pace Bias: The deep sand and kickback heavily favor front-runners and stalkers. Gaining a forward position early is often crucial for two-year-olds, making the initial pace battle critical.
Final Verdict & Betting Strategy
The 4th Formalhaut Stakes boils down to a fascinating clash between the local ace Sakidori Tokken and the invading speedster Impulse Bella. Sakidori Tokken’s versatility, home-track advantage, and strategic jockey choice make her a reliable favorite.
However, Impulse Bella’s raw speed and top-tier jockey could prove overwhelming if she secures an uncontested lead. Look for Pharma Dol and Sarasa Challenge as key challengers who could capitalize on a fast pace or benefit from a masterful ride.
Remember, two-year-old filly races are unpredictable. Always check final paddock conditions and track updates before placing your bets.Get Final Race-Day Picks