A deep dive into the 64th Kyoto Kimpai (GIII). We evaluate top contenders, analyze trackwork data, and uncover potential dark horses for the January 4th showdown at Kyoto Racecourse.
An analysis of the leading horses based on projected odds and recent performance data.
Assessment: Enters in top form after a decisive victory in the Rigel Stakes (L). His trackwork has been exceptional, signaling further growth. Drawing the innermost gate (1-1) is a significant advantage.
Concern: The 57.5kg handicap is on the heavy side, but trainer Okumura is confident, stating, “Against older horses, 1600m is his perfect distance.”
Assessment: The only horse to receive an “A” rating (Excellent Condition) in our workout analysis, highlighting his peak physical state.
Strength: Ran a strong 3rd in the Capital Stakes (L). His 56.5kg handicap is manageable compared to other top contenders. Assistant Kitamura notes, “He’s been great since his summer break.”
Assessment: Riding a wave of momentum after winning the Doncaster Cup (3-Win Class). His greatest asset is his proven affinity for the course, as Assistant Kitamura states, “He’s very compatible with Kyoto’s outer course.”
Assessment: Aims to bounce back from a 6th place finish in the Fuji Stakes (GII). Having jockey Ryusei Sakai continue to ride is a strong positive. The team is optimistic, expecting “a better race than last time.”
Assessment: Transitions back to turf from dirt, but his raw talent is undeniable. Trainer Shikato asserts, “His ability is top-class.” The key challenge will be overcoming the top handicap of 58.5kg.
| # | Horse | Rating | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | Buena Onda | A | Excellent condition. Kept pace with strong workers two weeks ago and outperformed stablemates in the last two sessions. Lean, athletic physique is impressive. |
| 1 | Lance of Chaos | B | Maintaining strong form. Clocked 54.6-12.8 on the Ritto hill. No stiffness after his last race; his action has become even sharper. |
| 9 | Trovatore | B | Good condition. Finished with a final furlong of 11.4s on the Miho woodchip. Improved dramatically after being pushed a week ago. Looks powerful. |
| 8 | Yamanin Sampa | B | Improving with each workout. Worked on Jan 2nd (Ritto hill 55.7-12.0). Energetic movement, shows no signs of being overweight despite the layoff. |
An analysis based on bloodline trends for the Kyoto 1600m outer course.
The Kyoto outer course, with its long downhill stretch from the 3rd to 4th corner, often favors horses with a powerful finishing kick. Progeny of Deep Impact, known for their explosive speed, tend to excel here. Horses fitting this profile include: #1 Lance of Chaos (by Silver State), #15 Buena Onda (dam’s sire is Deep Impact), and #10 Shonan Addeyib (by Deep Impact).
In winter conditions on potentially tougher ground, and in a handicap race where weights matter, stamina-rich bloodlines also come into play. Types that combine power and endurance, like #13 Gaia Mente (by Duramente), should not be underestimated.
Value picks that could outperform their odds based on data analysis.⑥ Yankee Barrows (Est. Odds: 21.0)Finished 9th in the Rigel S., but trainer Uemura noted, “The layoff took its toll. He should be much sharper for his second race back.” His workouts show marked improvement, making him a candidate for a big turnaround.⑧ Yamanin Sampa (Est. Odds: 21.0)At 8 years old, he still shows fire, clocking a swift final furlong of 12.0s on the hill on Jan 2nd. Trainer Saito’s comment, “He seemed a bit sluggish at year-end, so we pushed him in the new year,” reveals the team’s determination.④ Masano Canaria (Est. Odds: 16.5)His biggest weapon is the feather-light handicap of 52kg. While returning from a long layoff since the Victoria Mile, the stable reports he is “well-prepared.” If he can leverage the light weight, he could be a surprise factor.
A final synthesis of all data points to form a betting strategy.Top Pick (Anchor)① Lance of Chaos: The most reliable contender, balancing excellent form, a prime gate position, and proven ability.Main Challenger⑮ Buena Onda: His “A” rating in trackwork and favorable handicap give him a strong chance to win.High Potential⑬ Gaia Mente: A course specialist who will be in the mix if the race unfolds to his liking.Value & Longshots⑥ Yankee Barrows & ⑨ Trovatore: The former is poised for improvement, while the latter’s raw talent is too great to ignore despite the top weight.