AI Predicts: Hatsugasumi Sho 2026 : Can Sanonowonder & Pullnachandra triumph in the grueling 1800m dirt race at Nakayama? Our AI delivers its definitive analysis and final verdict for the January 24th showdown.
Tough Track AdvantageNakayama’s 1800m dirt course demands power and stamina. A dry, fast track overwhelmingly favors front-runners.
AI’s Top Pick: SanonowonderNew cheek pieces are expected to boost focus, and the continued partnership with jockey Keita Tosaki is a significant plus.
Contender: PullnachandraA heavyweight European stamina pedigree makes this horse a perfect match for the current demanding track conditions.
Dark Horse: Feel AwesomeA rising star by Le Vent Se Leve. If it can seize an early lead from the outside gate, a repeat of its last victory is possible.
Race DynamicsThe key is Feel Awesome’s pace, Pullnachandra’s early move, and Sanonowonder’s decisive charge down the final stretch.
AI’s Final Verdict
Rank
Horse
AI Rationale
◎ Top Pick
Sanonowonder
Expect improved focus from new equipment. Jockey Tosaki’s skill will seal the victory.
◯ Strong Contender
Pullnachandra
Now 5 years old and in peak form. The tough Nakayama track seems tailor-made for this horse.
▲ Dark Horse
Feel Awesome
The Le Vent Se Leve bloodline is awakening at Nakayama. Can hold on if allowed an easy lead.
△ Potential Upset
Sezan World
Strong performance despite moving up in class. Mentally stronger and a threat to the top contenders.
△ Potential Upset
Sigmund
The team’s confident statements are intriguing. An aggressive front-running strategy could lead to a major upset.
Deep Dive Analysis: The AI’s Logic
◎ Sanonowonder
Pedigree Power: Combines the power and speed of sire Henny Hughes with the stamina from grandsire King Halo, perfect for Nakayama’s two steep climbs.
Equipment Advantage: First-time cheek pieces address past focus issues. The effect was clear in final training, showing effortless performance.
Jockey Synergy: The continued partnership with Keita Tosaki, a master of this course, is its greatest asset. The team is fully prepared for victory.
◯ Pullnachandra
Stamina Bloodline: A rare European stamina pedigree (Animal Kingdom x Opera House) makes it a powerhouse on demanding, dry dirt tracks where others falter.
Peak Condition: Trainer Jiro Ono confirms the horse is “extremely fit and in great shape,” backed by an impressive final workout on the polytrack.
Proven Class: Despite a recent loss, it finished 8 lengths clear of third place, proving its superior ability in this class.
▲ Feel Awesome
Sire’s Trend: Sire Le Vent Se Leve boasts a phenomenal 17.0% win rate on this course since 2025. The track suitability is undeniable.
Strategic Advantage: The outermost gate allows it to dictate the pace without pressure. If it establishes its rhythm, its tenacity in the final stretch is formidable.
Stable’s Confidence: Trainer Takaki Iwato is confident, stating, “Its last race was strong. If it can maintain a forward position, it will be competitive.”
Race Simulation: An ‘IF’ Scenario
The AI predicts Feel Awesome will take the lead from the outside, setting a slow to moderate pace—the most effective strategy on this dry track.
1Start to Mid-RaceFeel Awesome establishes a solo lead. Sanonowonder settles into a prime position (3rd-4th) to avoid kickback, while Pullnachandra conserves energy in the mid-pack.
2The Decisive Moment (3rd-4th Corner)Pullnachandra, confident in its stamina, begins to advance early, pressuring Feel Awesome. Sanonowonder waits patiently on the inside, searching for an opening.
3The Final StretchThe most likely scenario: a thrilling duel as Pullnachandra challenges the tenacious Feel Awesome on the outside, while Sanonowonder bursts through the pack with a powerful late charge. The race hinges on how close the others can get to this leading trio.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Hatsugasumi Sho is shaping up to be a fierce battle between the strategic pacer Feel Awesome, the powerful stalker Pullnachandra, and the all-around contender Sanonowonder. Victory will likely come down to subtle factors: equipment adjustments, race-day condition, and pure grit.Watch Full Simulation on YouTube
Data for this analysis was referenced from sources including netkeiba.com.