By AI Racing Analyst
January 20, 2026
On Jan 22, 2026, the 31st Shiragin Souha takes place at Kasamatsu Racecourse. A star-studded field gathers, led by Hyogo’s powerhouse Namura Tata and Kasamatsu’s supernova Star Sand Beach. Our AI has performed a deep-dive analysis of pedigree, aptitude, and race dynamics to deliver the final verdict, including a dark horse poised for a high-payout upset. This is your definitive guide.
AI Analysis: Key Takeaways
The Verdict
The AI’s top pick is Namura Tata. The shorter distance is a major advantage, and we rate his versatile running style and pedigree highly.
Top Contender
Kasamatsu’s rising star, Star Sand Beach, is the main rival. His overwhelming speed and impressive times mean he could dominate if he gets an early lead.
Race Dynamics
An early pace battle between Star Sand Beach and Special Talk will be key, potentially creating opportunities for closers.
Dark Horse
Dag Force boasts a prime pedigree. A smooth run from an outside gate could trigger a major upset.
Contents
- AI’s Final Verdict: Shiragin Souha 2026 Picks
- Deep Dive: The AI’s Analysis Points
- Race Simulation: An “If” World
- Summary & Further Analysis
AI’s Final Verdict: Top Picks
After integrating all data on ability, aptitude, and race simulations, the AI has generated its final recommendations.
| Rank | # | Horse | AI Evaluation |
|---|---|---|---|
| ◎ | 3 | Namura Tata | #1 reliability with shorter distance & versatility. |
| ○ | 7 | Star Sand Beach | Incredible speed. Could win decisively if the pace favors. |
| ▲ | 2 | Dos Hearts | Proven G3 winner at Kasamatsu; a real threat if fit. |
| ☆ | 11 | Dag Force | Best pedigree in the field. High potential for an upset. |
| △ | 1 | Sunrise Hope | Top-class record. A contender if his late surge connects. |
Deep Dive: The AI’s Analysis
The AI’s choice of Namura Tata is based on a synthesis of pedigree, course suitability, and recent performance data that may elude human analysis. Here’s the breakdown.
Kasamatsu 1400m Dirt: Course Analysis
Understanding the Kasamatsu 1400m track is fundamental. The straight is short (approx. 201m), making positioning at the 4th corner critical. While front-runners are typically favored, a fast pace can open the door for horses making a move from the 3rd corner. The current track condition is estimated to be a “high-speed track favoring raw speed” over stamina, giving an edge to horses with a higher top gear.
In-Depth Profiles of Top Contenders
◎ #3 Namura Tata
- Pedigree Advantage: Sired by The Factor, known for passing on explosive speed. Shortening the distance from 1870m is the biggest plus from a bloodline perspective.
- Peak Form: A strong 2nd place finish in his last race against a high-level field confirms his excellent current condition.
- Tactical Edge: With a likely fast pace up front, his ability to adapt and stalk from a good position is a major weapon. He’s reliable regardless of how the race unfolds.
○ #7 Star Sand Beach
- Sheer Speed: His previous winning time of 1:27.2 is head and shoulders above this field.
- Potential to Improve: As a lightly-raced 4-year-old, he is still developing and could deliver an even better performance.
- Key Concern: The early pace duel with Special Talk is the main variable. If he can take the lead uncontested, he might not be caught.
▲ #2 Dos Hearts
- Proven Class: His 3rd place in the Kasamatsu Grand Prix is top-tier form for this race. He has already proven his affinity for this course.
- Major Question Mark: Was scratched from his last race, making his current fitness the biggest question. If he’s at 100%, he is a definite win contender.
☆ #11 Dag Force
- Pedigree Appeal: Sired by Drefong, an American sprint champion. His bloodline suggests he is perfectly suited for the speed-demanding Kasamatsu 1400m.
- Untapped Potential: His run in the Kasamatsu Grand Prix showed he has the ability to compete at the stakes level. If he gets a clean trip from the outside gate, he could spring a surprise.
Race Simulation
- 1Start & Early Stages⑥ Special Talk from the inside and ⑦ Star Sand Beach from the outside vie for the lead. The AI projects Star Sand Beach, with superior speed, will secure the front position. ⑧ Black Butler and ⑪ Dag Force will also be part of the leading group.
- 2Mid-RaceStar Sand Beach sets a solid, fast pace typical of a 1400m race. ◎ Namura Tata and ▲ Dos Hearts conserve energy in mid-pack, tracking from an ideal position.
- 3Finish LineNamura Tata begins his advance from the 3rd corner. He catches the leader Star Sand Beach at the top of the straight and powers past before the finish line—this is the most likely scenario. Dos Hearts and Dag Force will close late for a fierce battle for second place.
Summary & More
The 2026 Shiragin Souha is shaping up to be a duel between the speed of Star Sand Beach and the all-around ability of Namura Tata. However, with proven contenders like Dos Hearts and the high-potential Dag Force in the mix, it’s an exciting race with upset potential. We hope this analysis helps your betting strategy.
For a more detailed visual simulation, check out our YouTube channel.Watch on YouTube
For final professional opinions, please consult expert handicapping sites like netkeiba.com.



