An in-depth analysis…
A deep dive into the Takarabune Tokubetsu (B3) at Kawasaki Racecourse. With Star Grip chasing a third straight victory, can rivals like the in-form Taisei Frank or the sharp-working MTY Wiser spoil the party? We break down the key contenders using the latest workout data and stable comments.
Eyeing a hat-trick, he’s the horse to beat at his favored 1400m distance, despite tougher competition.
Condition remains excellent, and a favorable inside draw could give him a crucial edge.
Clocked an impressive time in his final workout, signaling he’s ready to challenge the top contenders.
The tight turns of the 1400m course heavily favor horses with strong gate speed and tactical pace.
The Takarabune Tokubetsu kicks off the new year at Kawasaki. Here’s what you need to know about the race and the unique challenges of the Kawasaki 1400m dirt course.
| Date | Saturday, January 3, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Racecourse | Kawasaki Racecourse, Race 10 |
| Distance | 1400m Dirt (Left-handed) |
| Class | B3 |
The Kawasaki 1400m is known for its tight, compact turns. While the long straight from the start minimizes gate position bias, agility and early speed are paramount. Horses that can secure a forward position and navigate the turns without losing momentum have a distinct advantage. With a mix of class climbers and droppers, assessing current form and course suitability is the key to unlocking this race.
Riding a two-race winning streak, Star Grip is the clear center of attention. Sired by Asia Express, he possesses the speed for this distance.PedigreeSire: Asia Express, Dam: Kaumudi (by Eishin Flash)WorkoutDec 29, Kawasaki (Good to Soft): Clocked 69.3-53.0-39.7 at a canter. Noted as “maintaining good spirits.”Stable CommentsTrainer Toshikazu Tajima: “He’s facing a tougher class after two straight wins, but his form is solid. Getting him into a 1400m race, his best distance, is a big plus.”
Don’t overlook Taisei Frank, especially from an inside draw. His pedigree (sire Mozu Ascot, dam’s sire Symboli Kris S) suggests he has the grit for a tough dirt race.PedigreeSire: Mozu Ascot, Dam: Meisho Kusabue (by Symboli Kris S)WorkoutDec 29, Kawasaki (Good to Soft): Timed at 69.5-53.5-39.5 at a canter. Described as “moving lightly and smoothly.”Stable CommentsTrainer Katsuyoshi Uchida: “He’s full of energy with no drop in condition. We’re expecting a strong performance.”
MTY Wiser’s final workout was eye-catching. As a son of Furioso, a proven sire on the NAR dirt circuit, he has the potential to upset.PedigreeSire: Furioso, Dam: M O Ruby (by M O Winner)WorkoutFinal workout, Kawasaki (Soft): Posted a sharp 69.5-52.3-39.3 while running wide on the track.Stable CommentsTrainer Hiroya Yamazaki: “His condition is excellent, and we’re looking forward to this race.” He is proving he can compete at the B-class level.
The 2026 Takarabune Tokubetsu shapes up as a classic confrontation: the red-hot favorite Star Grip against a field of well-prepared challengers like Taisei Frank and MTY Wiser. Pay close attention to horses with proven early speed, as the unique layout of Kawasaki will be a deciding factor.See the Expert’s Final Picks