By AI Racing Analyst|January 22, 2026
Key Takeaways
AI identifies 6 “value horses” at Funabashi on Jan 22, 2026, each with a predicted ROI exceeding 200%.
Gloriamundi is the top pick for the main event, the “Hochi Grand Prix Cup,” due to exceptional course suitability.
Analysis of track conditions indicates a strong bias for horses making late runs from outside gates.
Kurino Cenote (81.7% place rate) and Enfer (75% place rate) show extremely high stability as anchor bets.
AI’s Final Selection
| Race | # | Horse Name | Race Name | Predicted ROI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funabashi 02R | 11 | Kurino Cenote | C3 | 189% |
| Funabashi 04R | 12 | Cosmo Enen | Ichinen Tsuten Sprint (C2) | 218% |
| Funabashi 07R | 13 | Enfer | Best Saddle Special (JRA) | 458% |
| Funabashi 08R | 4 | Ballet Core | Kikuchi Farm Burdock (C3) | 355% |
| Funabashi 09R | 7 | Fast Lane | Snowdrop Sprint (B2) | 279% |
| Funabashi 11R | 7 | Gloriamundi | Hochi Grand Prix Cup (G) | 232% |
Detailed AI Analysis
Funabashi 02R: Kurino Cenote (C3)
Boasting an overwhelming stability with a predicted place rate of 81.7%, Kurino Cenote is an incredibly reliable pick. The data suggests a very low probability of finishing outside the top three.
- Statistical Edge: A predicted win rate of 51% demonstrates standout ability in the C3 class.
- Pedigree & Aptitude: The combination of sire Silver State’s speed and grandsire Screen Hero’s stamina is a perfect match for Funabashi’s tough 1200m dirt track.
- Peak Condition: Excellent recent workout times and confident stable comments indicate no weaknesses. The wide draw from gate 11 is also a significant advantage.
Funabashi 04R: Cosmo Enen (C2)
With a predicted ROI of 218%, Cosmo Enen is a classic “value horse” whose last performance is undervalued by the market.
- Superior Workouts: Easily outpaced higher-class horses in training. Both time and form are superb, showing top condition among the contenders.
- Trainer Confidence: Trainer Shinobu Yamada commented, “The last race was strong, including the time,” providing solid backing.
- Pacing Advantage: Veteran Funabashi jockey Tsubasa Sasagawa continues to ride. Expect a strategic race, sitting off the pace from a wide draw before a decisive move in the straight.
Funabashi 07R: Enfer (JRA Exchange)
Enfer posted an astonishing predicted ROI of 458%. While the win probability is only 11%, the place rate is a massive 75%, making it a perfect anchor for exotic bets—a horse that consistently places but may not win.
- Dirt Suitability: Despite poor results on JRA turf, the stable believes its power is suited to the deeper dirt of regional tracks. The stage is set to unleash its true potential.
- Excellent Form: Showed sharp movement in workouts at Miho Training Center, confirming top physical condition.
- Source of Value: Its winless JRA record will depress its odds, but if it adapts to the dirt as predicted, a performance far exceeding its price is possible.
Funabashi 08R: Ballet Core (C3)
A superbly bred horse by Bricks and Mortar out of Bounce Shasse. Contrary to the stable’s cautious comments, the AI rates it highly with a predicted ROI of 355%. This discrepancy is the key to a high payout.
- Untapped Potential: The pedigree is unheard of for the C3 class. Its latent ability is immense.
- Stunning Workout: Trained alongside A1-class stakes winner Vertex and finished level with ease. Its power is already at a stakes-grade level.
- Breakout Possibility: While adapting to dirt is a concern, the AI highly values the chance of a breakout performance under the guidance of top jockey Hiroto Yoshihara.
Funabashi 09R: Fast Lane (B2)
In the small-field Snowdrop Sprint, Fast Lane is closest to victory with a 30% predicted win rate. The ROI of 279% also offers good value for a straight win bet.
- Trainer’s Ambition: Trainer Yamashita’s comment, “The winners of the last two races aren’t here, so we’re hopeful,” shows confidence after assessing the competition.
- Peak Condition: Described as “sharp and nimble” in workouts, possessing the key attributes for a sprint race at a high level.
- Pedigree Support: The cross of Real Steel and Awesome Again provides a blend of speed and power well-suited to Funabashi’s dirt course.
Funabashi 11R: Gloriamundi (Hochi Grand Prix Cup)
In the main event, Gloriamundi receives the highest AI rating with a predicted ROI of 232%. Considering its record and current weight assignment, it’s a true bargain.
- Proven Course Specialist: Has previously dominated the Diolite Kinen over 2400m at Funabashi, proving its affinity for the track.
- Favorable Weight: A weight of 56kg is exceptionally generous given its past achievements.
- Stable’s Confidence: Trainer Kazuo Kawashima declared, “We want to show a class difference in this field.” Its workout was impressive, showing no signs of decline at age 8. Now back to full strength, expect a dominating run.
Track Simulation & Bias
Funabashi Racecourse has a tendency for sand to accumulate on the inside rail. Race trends from January 21st show a strong advantage for closers coming from outside gates. This bias is likely to continue.
Spiral Curve Effect
The gentle entry and sharp exit of the corners allow horses on the outside to maintain momentum into the home straight.
Favorable Race Pattern
Horses drawn wide can get a clear run, avoiding kickback, and make their move on the better part of the track. Kurino Cenote (#11), Cosmo Enen (#12), and Enfer (#13) are positioned to benefit most.
Conclusion
The six horses highlighted in this article are the AI’s top “value picks,” identified through rigorous analysis of data and race conditions. Horses like Enfer and Ballet Core, where there is a significant gap between public perception and AI evaluation, represent prime opportunities for high-return bets. Use this intelligence to make strategic wagers and aim for victory.



