January 15, 2026：Nikkei Shinshun Hai 2026: Gelteschtal vs. Shining Sword : A deep dive into the contenders for the prestigious Nikkei Shinshun Hai (GII) at Kyoto Racecourse. We analyze top prospects, dark horses, and training reports for this key early-season Grade II race.

By Racing Analyst•Updated January 15, 2026

Key Takeaways

• ✓**Wide-Open Race:** No clear favorite; handicap and race pace will be crucial.
• ✓**Rising Stars:** Keep an eye on in-form horses like Shining Sword and Coachella Valley.
• ✓**Course Suitability:** Horses with Deep Impact and Heart’s Cry lineage are historically strong here.
• ✓**Workout Form:** Front-runners with solid training regimens hold a distinct advantage.

Contents

1. 1. Race Overview & Course
2. 2. Top Contenders Analysis
3. 3. Dark Horses & Pedigree
4. 4. Predictions & Conclusion
5. 5. Frequently Asked Questions

Race Overview & Course Features

The Nikkei Shinshun Hai is a traditional Grade II race that signals the start of the middle-to-long distance season for older horses. This year, a competitive field of 13 gathers at Kyoto Racecourse over 2400m (outer turf). The handicap weights and adaptability to the tough winter turf will be key factors in determining the winner.

Kyoto Turf 2400m: Course Analysis

The race starts near the top of the backstretch hill. The key feature is the famous “Yodo no Saka” hill in the third corner. Horses that can maintain momentum down the slope into the final stretch have a significant advantage. Stamina and the ability to sustain a long, powerful kick are essential.

Event Information

Top Contenders: Workout & Form Analysis

Here we evaluate the top three contenders based on recent performance and their training regimen leading up to the race.

Gelteschtal

(Expected Favorite)

Showed promise in the Kikuka Sho (GI), finishing just 0.4 seconds behind the winner. His stamina is proven, making him a top contender in this GII field.

• Sire: Bricks and Mortar
• Jockey: Ryusei Sakai (56.0kg)
• Analysis: Well-rested after an 11-week break. Suited to the Kyoto outer course. A win is likely if he can secure a good position from the start.

Shining Sword

(Expected 2nd Favorite)

A rising star who has steadily climbed the ranks. His last win in the Shosenkyo S (3-Win Class) at Tokyo over 2400m showcased a tenacious late kick.

• Sire: Frankel
• Jockey: Yuga Kawada (56.0kg)
• Analysis: The formidable Nakauchida/Kawada combo. Despite a 13-week layoff, his record after a break is excellent [2-0-1-0]. He’s ready to fire.

Yamanin Bouquet

(Expected 3rd Favorite)

Typical of a Kitasan Black progeny, he possesses great stamina. While he struggled in the Kikuka Sho, his close finish in the St. Lite Kinen (GII) proves his class.

• Sire: Kitasan Black
• Jockey: Norihiro Yokoyama (55.0kg)
• Analysis: A 55kg handicap seems favorable. If he can dictate his own pace, a major comeback is well within reach.

Dark Horses & Pedigree Diagnosis

In a handicap race, upsets are always possible. Here are two contenders who could outperform their odds based on pedigree and recent form.

Predictions & Conclusion

After weighing the training reports, barrier draw, and handicap differences, we’ve identified our top picks for this competitive race.

Final Selections

• ◎GelteschtalTop Pick – Proven class and consistency.
• ◯Shining SwordStrong Contender – Excellent form.
• ▲Coachella ValleyUpset Potential – Advantageous handicap.
• △Yamanin BouquetPlace Chance – If the pace is right.
• ☆SubmarinerDark Horse – Never underestimate Yutaka Take.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the post time for the Nikkei Shinshun Hai 2026?

The race is scheduled as the 11th race on the 7th day of the Kyoto meeting in January 2026, with a post time of 15:30 JST.What is the race grade and distance?

It is a Grade II (GII) international special weight race held over 2400 meters on the turf (outer course) at Kyoto Racecourse.Who are the main horses to watch?

Key contenders include Gelteschtal, a top finisher from the Kikuka Sho, and the rapidly improving Shining Sword.