In-Depth Analysis of Top Contenders’ Pre-Race Workouts and Prediction for the 3600m Nakayama Course
The Nakayama 3600m course’s 16 corners and steep inclines demand exceptional stamina and maneuverability from competitors.
Chuck Nate and Chrominance show outstanding pre-race workout data, indicating peak physical condition and high contention for victory.
The Stay Gold lineage, especially through Gold Ship progeny, is heavily represented, signaling a race favoring horses bred for stamina.
The course’s numerous corners place a premium on inside navigation and jockey skill to minimize distance loss, making maneuverability essential.
Multiple ascents of Nakayama’s signature steep incline, especially late in the race, serve as the ultimate test of a horse’s resilience and true stamina.
| Sire | Notable Progeny | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Ship | Win Airfolk, Vermicelle, etc. | High long-distance suitability; excels in tough races. |
| Orfevre | Mixology | Triple Crown winner pedigree; explosive power and stamina. |
| Heart’s Cry | Chuck Nate | Produces G1 winners who mature well with age. |
| Lord Kanaloa | Chrominance | Influence from dam sire; age adapts well to long distances. |
Gelding, 7yo, Miho TC, Hori Stable
Solid Steyer
Workout: Miho W, 6F 66.5s, Final 1F 11.3s (Ridden out)
Analysis: Demonstrated high cardiovascular capacity and a sharp finishing kick against a speedy rival. Workout suggests peak condition, potentially better than last year.
Outlook: Proven success in this race and a bloodline built for toughness make him the primary focus and most reliable choice.
Colt, 8yo, Miho TC, Ozaki Stable
No Signs of Decline
Workout: Miho W, 4F 50.2s, Final 1F 11.7s (With ease)
Analysis: Effortlessly matched a G1 winner on a soft track, showing excellent physical and mental form. His agility in training has notably improved.
Outlook: Expected to improve significantly from his last race. His ability to settle over long distances makes him a top contender for an upset victory.
Gelding, 6yo, Ritto TC, Tsujino Stable
Record Holder Comeback
Workout: Ritto CW, Final 1F 12.0s (Strong effort)
Analysis: A long, steady gallop with remaining ease in the final stretch indicates smooth progress. Movement has become smoother since his layoff.
Outlook: A previous record win at 3400m proves his top-tier stamina. A horse to watch closely in a stamina-intensive race.
Filly, 4yo, Miho TC, Tajima Shun Stable
Maneuverable Dark Horse
Workout: Miho W, 6F 66.5s, Final 1F 11.6s (Ridden strongly)
Analysis: Marked a good time effortlessly with a strong finish. Training comments highlight his excellent maneuverability, a key advantage here.
Outlook: Stamina and fighting spirit make him suitable for long distances. Carrying a light 55kg is a significant advantage.
A tough Gold Ship progeny in stable condition, focused on finishing strong. Could emerge in a stamina-focused race.
Another tough Gold Ship filly who excels in grueling races and consistently trains on the demanding uphill track.
Agile in training with an improving evaluation. Could be a threat if he sets a comfortable pace from the front.
| Rank | Horse | Time (s) | Eval. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chuck Nate | 11.3 | S |
| 2 | Vertenberk | 11.5 | A |
| 2 | Pure Kiang | 11.5 | B+ |
| 4 | Ho-o Elite | 11.6 | A |
| 5 | Chrominance | 11.7 | S |
Chuck Nate
Workout received an ‘S’ evaluation with no reservations. High-quality performance, excellent timing, and proven course suitability make him the most reliable choice.
Chrominance
Shows no signs of age, matching a G1 horse in training. An intriguing bloodline makes him the top candidate for an upset.
Meiner Campana & Ho-o Elite
Both have the potential to perform well in a stamina-intensive race due to bloodline and tactical advantages.
This article is based on information and data available as of late November 2025.
Please confirm the final list of participants and post positions with the official announcements.