In-depth Analysis of Bloodlines, Training, and Race Development of Promising Horses for the Hanshin Turf 1600m
December 13, 2025
The Rigel Stakes is a key race for predicting the outcome of next year’s mile graded races.
The course demands sustained finishing speed and power to conquer a steep uphill finish.
Deep Impact lineage crossed with power bloodlines and Lord Kanaloa progeny are favored.
Lance of Chaos, Shivers, Danon Ayers Rock, and World’s End are the key horses to watch.
A solo breakaway by Selberg is expected, leading to a contest of explosive speed and stamina in the final stretch.
The Hanshin Racecourse turf 1600m (outer course) is a legendary stage. Its long backstretch minimizes early pace battles, often leading to a moderate start. However, the race’s climax is defined by its two key features: the wide, gentle final turns allowing for a full-stride sprint, and the grueling steep uphill finish. This combination demands a rare blend of “sustained finishing speed” and raw “power,” creating a true test of a miler’s stamina and heart.
By December, the Hanshin turf can be worn and challenging. While modern track management often preserves a fast surface, the winter conditions typically favor horses with power-oriented bloodlines (like Roberto or European Northern Dancer lineages). It remains a fair course where the most capable horses shine, but adaptability to the track’s condition on race day is paramount.
Cranford(牝4, 55kg, T. Danno)
Danon Ayers Rock(牡4, 57kg, J. L. L. Jeru)
Kyoei Brissa(牡5, 57kg, M. Sakai)
Nishino Souvenir(牡6, 58kg, Y. Iwata)
Ashurbanipal(牡4, 57kg, Y. Hishida)
World’s End(牡4, 57kg, C. Demuro)
Selberg(牡6, 59kg, R. Wada)
Bloomin’ Design(牡4, 57kg, R. Sakai)
Go to First(牡5, 57kg, T. Kitamura)
Lance of Chaos(牡3, 56kg, S. Yoshimura)
Shivers(牡4, 57kg, M. Kawada)
Meisho Shintake(牡7, 58kg, R. Takasugi)
Yankee Barrows(牡3, 56kg, M. Iwata)
The ideal mating combines the explosive speed of “Deep Impact blood” with the toughness of “European stamina” (Sadler’s Wells, Roberto) or “US power”. This blend is crucial for handling the demanding December track.
ShiversLance of ChaosDanon Ayers Rock
Absolute speed to handle fast finishes is also essential. Progeny of Lord Kanaloa and horses with King Kamehameha as the broodmare sire have a proven track record on this course.
World’s EndCranford
Pace Setter: The race dynamics point to Selberg taking an uncontested solo lead, setting a moderate early pace.
Positioning: Expect World’s End, Danon Ayers Rock, and Shivers to settle in the leading group. Horses with a strong finish, like Lance of Chaos, will likely conserve energy in the mid-pack for a late surge.
The climax will unfold on the final straight. As the pace intensifies, the steep Hanshin uphill will separate the contenders from the pretenders. The winner will need both explosive speed and the stamina to accelerate again after the climb.
S Rank
Noticeably light movement. Shows no fatigue despite a short break. Sharp stride suggests peak condition and a performance that will exceed its last race.
A Rank
Excellent movement despite a layoff. Outpaced its partner with a final 11.6s furlong. Body condition is excellent, showing clear improvement.
A Rank
Powerful and fresh. Physique appears stronger than its previous race. Poised to unleash its full ability if temperament issues are managed.
B+ Rank
Recorded a strong time of 51s in a Tuesday workout. Received sufficient exertion and is in perfect condition for the race.
This high-level race features future Grade 1 contenders. After careful analysis, our top pick is:
Its bloodline is perfectly suited to the Hanshin mile. The extended distance, combined with significant improvement in training, makes it a formidable contender.
For final selections and expert betting strategies, consult the pros.Check Professional Predictions
Information in this article is based on training data from December 3rd to December 10th, 2025, and recent race results.
Please confirm the final list of runners and post positions before placing any wagers.