HYOGO GOLD TROPHY
An In-depth Analysis of the Jpn3 Dirt Sprint Classic
Key Takeaways
Top Weight Test
**Sunrise Flame** carries a hefty 59kg, putting its superior ability under the ultimate test.
New Generation’s Charge
3-year-olds **Happy Man** and **Matenro Command** aim to challenge with proven course form and favorable weights.
Course is Key
Sonoda’s tight 1400m track heavily favors front-runners and those with advantageous inner gate positions.
Peak Condition
Training reports show **Sunrise Flame** and **Matenro Command** are in exceptional form.
The Sonoda Challenge
Established in 2001, the Hyogo Gold Trophy is a vital handicap race bridging local and central circuits. The handicap system, with weights from 59kg to 51kg, is designed to level the playing field and produces thrilling, unpredictable outcomes.
Sonoda’s 1400m dirt course is a unique test of strategy and speed. With a small 1051m circumference, its tight turns and a short 213m final straight create a significant advantage for front-runners. Jockeys fight for early position, as securing an economical rail spot through the sharp corners is crucial for victory.
Data-Driven Insights (Past 10 Years)
Affiliation Performance
- JRA Ritto23.5% Win8 Wins, 7 Seconds, 4 Thirds (55.9% in Top 3)
- Kawasaki33.3% Win1 Win, 1 Second (66.7% in Top 3)
- JRA Miho20.0% Win1 Win, 1 Third (40.0% in Top 3)
Performance by Popularity
- 1st Favorite30% Win80% in Top 3
- 2nd Favorite30% Win70% in Top 3
- 4th Favorite30% Win60% in Top 3
Analysis shows Ritto-trained horses are dominant. While top favorites are reliable, there’s high potential for lower-ranked horses to cause upsets in 2nd or 3rd place.
Race Development Simulation
The Start: An intense early pace is expected as Sunrise Flame (inner gate) and Matenro Command (outer gate) push for the lead. The light-weighted Baucheiser will also contend, setting up a high-speed battle into the first corner.
Mid-Race: The field will likely string out. Happy Man is predicted to settle in a prime stalking position, while local hope Ecolo Courage conserves energy on the rail. The pack will bunch up approaching the third corner.
The Finish: Sunrise Flame will attempt to break away early in the short straight. Matenro Command and Happy Man will launch their attacks from the outside. If the early pace takes its toll, the 3-year-olds or a lightly-weighted local could surge past tiring leaders for a thrilling finish.
Training Assessment
S
Sunrise Flame
Exceptional times on the woodchip track. Bristling with power and speed, appears ready to defy the top weight.
A
Matenro Command & Ecolo Courage
Both show strong intent. Matenro Command is sharp after hard works; Ecolo Courage is peaking on its home track.
B+
Happy Man
Smooth, understated preparation. Not flashy in training, suggesting conserved energy for explosive race-day performance.
Key Contenders
Sunrise Flame
5yo Colt / Ritto
59.0kg
Y. Hishida
Profile: Possesses sustained speed and power well-suited for Sonoda. Recent wins prove adaptability. In prime condition to overcome the top weight.
Happy Man
3yo Colt / Ritto
57.0kg
R. Sakai
Profile: Pedigree built for small tracks. A proven winner on this course, now fully recovered and carrying an advantageous weight. One to watch.
Matenro Command
3yo Colt / Ritto
57.0kg
K. Matsuyama
Profile: Explosive speed over 1400m. Returns to a preferred track after a poor last run. Intense training suggests the stable is aiming for a strong rebound.
Sunrise Hawk
6yo Gelding / Ritto
59.0kg
M. Demuro
Profile: A winner here two years ago, but recent form is a major concern. Gate issues and mental challenges, combined with a 59kg weight, make this a risky pick.
Final Verdict & Dark Horses
Prediction Summary
- Sunrise Flame’s absolute ability is the benchmark, but the 59kg weight is a true test.
- The 3-year-olds Happy Man and Matenro Command have the momentum, course experience, and weight advantage to cause an upset.
- Local challengers and lightly weighted horses like Ecolo Courage and Lorenzo cannot be ignored, especially if the pace is fast.
- Sunrise Hawk is a “dangerous favorite”; its past glory may not reflect its current condition.
Challengers to Watch
- Ecolo Courage (Sonoda): Top local hope with home-turf advantage and a manageable 55kg weight.
- Special X (Hokkaido): A tenacious front-runner who placed 4th last year. A threat to stick around.
- Lorenzo (Kochi): Carries the minimum 53kg. Could be a factor with a late run if the leaders falter.
- K’s Ray (Nagoya): An improving 3-year-old with a top jockey. Aims to surprise.
