November 24, 2025
A deep dive into the top contenders for two of Japan’s key races: the Tokyo Sports Hai Nisai Stakes (GII), a proving ground for future classic champions, and the Ou Stakes, a fierce battle on the dirt. We break down the data, training, and bloodlines to find the winning edge.
The Tokyo 1800m turf course is known as a true test of ability where luck plays a small role. The list of past winners includes future Derby champions and G1 winners, proving that the victor of this race often becomes a leading contender for the following year’s classics. This year’s field, though full of lightly-raced horses, features several raw talents who have shown immense potential in their training and previous starts.
The Tokyo Racecourse’s 1800m turf track has a long straight from the start to the first corner, which generally minimizes disadvantages from the draw. However, in a 2-year-old race, settling calmly in the pack is key, and securing a good position smoothly can directly impact the outcome. The pace is a major point of interest, with some horses looking to take the lead and others facing a step up in competition. This course tends to favor horses with a strong finishing kick in a slow-paced race, making tactics and track conditions crucial factors.
Reichs Adler — The Top Candidate Dominating with Polish
Considered the central figure of this race. From the Miho-based Yuki Uehara stable, his final workout was exceptional. On the Miho woodchip course on Nov 21, he clocked an impressive time “under a light hold.” He’s been praised for his “supple and springy action, despite some remaining immaturity. He’s in great shape,” highlighting his excellent physical condition. With jockey Daisuke Sasaki, if he can unleash his full potential on Tokyo’s long straight, he has a high chance of overpowering the field.
Röbelkranz — The Assassin from Ritto, on a Steep Rise
Entering from the Ritto-based Naosuke Sugai stable with Kohei Matsuyama as jockey. In his Nov 20 workout on the Ritto hill course, he was highly rated: “He settled smoothly and finished with plenty in reserve. His movement was light and extended well. He’s also filled out impressively.” His improvement since his last race is considered among the best in the field. With a good mind-body balance, he’s a horse to watch, especially as Kansai-based horses often perform well here.
Teruhiko — The Yahagi Stable’s Front-Runner
A contender from the Yoshito Yahagi stable. He carries the momentum from his last race, fitting the description of “taking the lead” and “improving further after a win.” His training comments note, “He’s had more work than for his debut and is showing much more energy. His body is toned, and his movements are sharper. A big step up is expected.” With jockey Ryusei Sakai, if he runs aggressively from the front, he has a strong chance of holding on.
Other Dark Horses
In this year’s Tokyo Sports Hai Nisai Stakes, Reichs Adler appears to have a slight edge based on his polish and training performance. The main threats are the rapidly improving Röbelkranz and the front-running Teruhiko. The explosive Pantle Naif, who was brilliant in training, also warrants caution. If the pace is slow, front-runners will have an advantage, but a delayed move could allow horses with a superior turn of foot to take over.
The Ou Stakes, held on the Fukushima 1700m dirt course, is a crucial step for horses aiming for the winter dirt racing season. It’s an intriguing race for betting, featuring a mix of horses challenging the class barrier and others riding a wave of momentum.
The tight turns of the Fukushima 1700m dirt course demand agility. With a short straight, closing from the rear is difficult, making these points critical:
Dubai Blues — The Rock-Solid Favorite
The most reliable horse in the race. His rating is top-class, and he’s described as “exceptionally consistent.” In his final workout, he held his own against a higher-class horse, and the stable reports, “Despite his large size, he’s nearly race-ready. He’s set.” His tactical skill and early speed are major assets, making him a highly dependable choice for the axis of any bet.
Belle Goone — Power Beyond a Filly
A strong contender despite this being her first race in this class. She’s noted as “one to watch even when stepping up” and “in good form despite a layoff.” Her final workout was sharp, earning praise for her “springy, excellent movement.” The consensus is that her power and maturity are more than enough to compete against male horses on the dirt.
God Blue Bee — The Fukushima Specialist
A prime example of a “course specialist.” His record as “last year’s runner-up” proves his high aptitude for the Fukushima 1700m dirt. Even if his recent form is poor, a return to his favorite conditions could trigger a dramatic turnaround. He cannot be overlooked.
Gold Alone — The Comeback Contender
His rating is second only to Dubai Blues, and he has the ability to compete. The comment “hiding a comeback” suggests he’s expected to bounce back from his last defeat. He’s not in poor form, and if his popularity drops, he offers great betting value.
Reciprocity — The Inside Rail Threat
From the innermost gate (1-1), he’s looking to make his move. His workout was positively reviewed: “He’s running with great enthusiasm. A very good feel.” If he can use the inside draw to save ground, he’s fully capable of being in the mix.
The race is expected to see Dubai Blues making an early move from a forward position, with Belle Goone and God Blue Bee in pursuit. The smart betting strategy would be to focus on early speed and course suitability, building tickets around Dubai Blues.
For this race, rich with AI prediction data, we recommend the following horses:
The provided data includes the unusual entry of Red Kingly as a 3-year-old in this race. Assuming this is correct, it significantly changes the race’s complexion.
The race day of November 24, 2025, is an unmissable event, featuring a clash between future stars and established dirt specialists. Here’s a summary of the key points for each race:
There are no certainties in horse racing, but by deeply understanding the data, training, and the stories behind each horse, you can get closer to hitting the mark.
The analysis presented in this report is based on preliminary data. For the “final conclusions” and “specific betting slips” from professional handicappers, which take into account same-day track conditions, paddock appearance, and odds fluctuations, please visit the link below. We highly recommend it as a reference for your ticket purchases.See the Pros’ Final Picks (External Link)
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes regarding horse racing predictions and does not guarantee winning bets. All wagers should be made at your own discretion. Data is based on materials for the races held on November 24, 2025.