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

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