Rinku Stakes
りんくうステークス
December 7, 2025
Race Overview
A crucial stepping stone for the upcoming dirt sprint graded races. The challenging Hanshin track with its steep final incline will test for true stamina and power, not just pure speed.
Venue
Hanshin
Track
Dirt
Distance
1200m
Class
Open
Course Analysis: Hanshin Dirt 1200m
Turf Start Bias
Outer gates gain an initial speed advantage from a longer run on turf, leading to a high-paced start.
Positioning Dynamics
A long 542m stretch to the third corner allows for maneuvering, but front-runners need to conserve energy.
The Steep Final Incline
The decisive factor. It heavily penalizes tired front-runners and creates opportunities for powerful closers.
Key Prep Race: Muromachi Stakes
| Rank | Horse Name | Time | Last 3F |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Peptide Yamato | 1:10.3 | 35.6 |
| 2nd | Meisho Horen | 1:10.5 | 35.9 |
| 3rd | Kitano’s Edge | 1:10.5 | 35.0 |
Training Check: Top Condition
Kitano’s Edge
Special Mention
S
Movement quality is exceptionally high, sharp, and responsive. In peak condition and a top contender for victory.
Alpha Mam
Good Condition
A
Light, propulsive leg movement. Has stored energy for a powerful surge if the race pace suits.
Meisho Horen
Good Condition
A-
Maintains a high level of condition with a firm physique, reflecting an ambitious training regimen.
Joe Laurit
Dark Horse
B+
Impressive workout times suggest peak condition. Could be an interesting prospect at low odds.
Elimination Sign
7-Year-Old Slump
Veteran horses have performed poorly in the last 10 years, with a record of [0-0-0-5].
Caution Sign
Gate 3 Blind Spot
A historically poor-performing gate with a record of [0-0-1-9], possibly due to being boxed in.
Favorable Bloodlines
| Horse Name | Lineage | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Meta Max | Storm Bird | ◎ Very High Suitability |
| Smart False | A.P. Indy | ◎ Course Specialist |
| Alpha Mam | A.P. Indy | ○ Explosive Power |
| Peptide Yamato | Storm Bird | ◎ Speed & Power Balance |
Horses to Watch
Top Contenders from Muromachi Stakes
Kitano’s Edge
Strongest closer. Overcame a wide trip in last race and shows peak condition. Hanshin’s incline is a major advantage.
Meisho Horen
Likely front-runner. Showed tenacity at Kyoto. The main question is handling the Hanshin incline solo.
Peptide Yamato
Last race winner. Carries more weight, but in great form. Explosive power is top-tier.Other Noteworthy Entries
Smart False
Consistent closer with excellent course suitability. Strong chance to place.
Battle Cry
Former top performer aiming for a comeback. Inherent ability is high; a return to form makes it dangerous.
Joe Laurit
Light weight is a big advantage. Excellent condition makes it a potential dark horse.
Final Verdict & Betting Strategy
◎ Main Pick
Kitano’s Edge
“Losing but showing strength” in its last race. Now in its third run after a break, training is outstanding and condition is at its absolute peak. The power to conquer the Hanshin incline makes it a solid anchor for all bets.
○ Second Pick
Meisho Horen
Expected to set its own pace without strong rivals. If it can maintain its tenacity on this tougher course, it has a good chance.
▲ Third Pick
Peptide Yamato
The 57.5kg weight is a concern, but current form is strong enough to overcome it. Possesses the best explosive power in the field.
△ Potential Placers
Smart False for consistency, Alpha Mam for its explosive closing kick, and Joe Laurit as a lightweight dark horse are all strong contenders to finish in the money.
![[2025 JBC Classic Results] Mickey Fight Dominates! Claims Dirt Racing Crown with Back-to-Back G1 Wins](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300,h_300/https://keibastat.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Introduction-21-300x300.png)
