A Deep Dive into Channel Tunnel’s Weaknesses and a Winning Strategy for the Hanshin Turf 1800m
Dec 7, 2025
Hanshin Racecourse
Handicap Race
Turf 1800m
Introduction
The 2025 Central Horse Racing season climaxes with the December meetings, featuring the Motomachi Stakes. This handicap race is a crucial gateway for talented horses aiming for next year’s G1 spring classics. Our analysis dissects all 18 runners, providing a logical, data-driven approach to predicting the outcome on Hanshin’s challenging 1800m outer course.
Key Takeaways
1
Gateway to Glory: A vital stepping stone for horses targeting G1 races like the Osaka Hai and Victoria Mile.
2
Contender’s Dilemma: Favorite Channel Tunnel is primed for a win, but a history of slow starts presents a major risk.
3
Track Advantage: The opening week at Hanshin typically favors horses with inside draws and forward racing styles due to the pristine inner rail.
Top Contenders
Channel Tunnel
62.3
Colt, 4yo | Ritto – Fukunnaga Stable
Boasts elite sustained speed, perfect for Hanshin’s long straight. Improved condition makes him the one to beat, but his notorious slow start is the critical weakness. An even break likely means a win.
HIGHEST WIN PROBABILITY
Aufheben
62.5
Filly, 5yo | Ritto – Takahashi Ryo Stable
Highest-rated horse in the field with proven tenacity. Her stamina and front-running style are a perfect match for the track bias. If she dictates the pace, she’ll be incredibly tough to catch.
TOP RATED CONTENDER
Bellagio Bond
61.8
Colt, 4yo | Ritto – Kamimura Stable
Returning from a layoff but training exceptionally well (S-Rank). Possesses raw speed and power, but his temperament is a major question mark. A high-risk, high-reward prospect.
TRAINING PHENOM
Meiner Enigma
62.0
Colt, 7yo | Ritto – Yoshida Stable
A veteran showing no signs of decline. Conditions are ideal: second race after a layoff and his favored right-handed track. Lacks explosive speed but his consistency makes him a threat for the podium.
CONSISTENT VETERAN
Comparative Analysis
| # | Horse Name | Rating | Training | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Channel Tunnel | 62.3 | A | S |
| 9 | Aufheben | 62.5 | A | A+ |
| 16 | Meiner Enigma | 62.0 | B | A |
| 13 | Suzuka Double | 61.7 | B+ | A |
| 17 | Bellagio Bond | 61.8 | S | B+ |
| 5 | Brick Work | 57.3 | S | B |
| 12 | Rediness | 57.5 | A | B |
Full Field Analysis
13Suzuka Double (Top Dark Horse)12Rediness5Brick Work
Final Judgment & Selections
◎
MAIN SELECTION
#6 Channel Tunnel
Improved from his last run and showing excellent form. His class and forward racing style make him the most probable winner.
○
SECOND CHOICE
#9 Aufheben
Top-rated in the field. If she controls the pace from the front, she possesses the ability to fend off all challengers.
▲
THIRD CHOICE
#16 Meiner Enigma
A strong performer with conditions aligning perfectly. A serious threat for a top-three finish.
☆
SPECIAL MENTION
#13 Suzuka Double
The key pace-setter. Could cause a major upset if he secures an uncontested lead on this favorable track.
△ For Place Consideration
#17 Bellagio Bond (high potential if managed), #5 Brick Work (S-Rank training), and #12 Rediness (promising 3-year-old).
This report is based on information available as of December 7, 2025. Horse racing involves inherent uncertainties, and betting should be undertaken at your own risk. This analysis is for informational purposes only.