January 2, 2026/
Updated January 2, 2026
Key Takeaways
The Nakayama Kinpai on Jan 4, 2026, is a challenging handicap race that demands stamina and adaptability to its tight corners and tough turf.
Angola Black is a top contender, boasting power and proven success on smaller tracks. Her training regimen is on point.
Kanerafina‘s impressive stamina and a favorable handicap of 54.0kg could be a decisive advantage.
Dark horses like Grandia (course specialist) and Sirius Colt (top-class talent) could cause an upset.
Contents
1. Nakayama Kinpai 2026: Race Overview
The 2026 JRA season kicks off with the 75th Nakayama Kinpai (GIII), a traditional handicap stakes race held at Nakayama Racecourse on Sunday, January 4th. Considered a test of both horse and bettor’s luck for the new year, this race is crucial to understand.
| Date | Sunday, January 4, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Post Time | 15:45 (Race 11) |
| Course | Nakayama Turf 2000m (Inner Course B) |
| Conditions | 4yo+, Open (Int’l), Special Weight, Handicap |
Typical for winter racing at Nakayama, we expect a demanding, slow track. The ability to handle tight turns and the power to conquer the steep final incline will be key factors in determining the winner.
2. Leading Contenders: Angola Black & Kanerafina
We’ll analyze the two horses expected to attract the most attention and betting support.
Angola Black (5F, Miho – Ozeki)
EvaluationA top contender with projected odds of 2.6. Her recent performances, including a close 2nd against male horses in the Fuchu Himba S (GII) and Ireland T (OP), prove her class. With a victory at Fukushima’s 2000m turf, she’s well-suited to Nakayama’s tight layout.Training ReportHer Dec 31 workout on the Miho woodchip course was rated as “well-prepared despite the layoff.” She appears to be in peak condition, even after a break.BloodlineSired by Kizuna out of a Rulership mare, she possesses an ideal blend of power and stamina that should thrive on the current challenging Nakayama turf.
Kanerafina (4F, Miho – Tezuka)
EvaluationEnters with momentum after a decisive win in the Niigata Himba S (L). Her proven stamina over 2200m will be a major asset in the tough 2000m race at Nakayama. Her light handicap of 54.0kg is another significant advantage.Training ReportJudged as “well-finished after a short break” in her Dec 31 workout, indicating a smooth and successful preparation.BloodlineHer pedigree, by Frankel out of a Fortify mare, suggests a strong European influence. She’s the type to excel in a grueling, stamina-draining contest.
3. Dark Horse Watch
Handicap races are known for upsets. Here are some contenders with attractive odds that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Grandia (7G, Ritto – Nakauchida)
Finished a strong 2nd in the recent December S (L) on heavy ground. At 7, this gelding shows no signs of slowing down. Reports say he’s “free of travel fatigue,” suggesting he’s ready for another top effort. Sired by Harbinger, known for producing Nakayama specialists, he is a serious threat.
Sirius Colt (5H, Miho – Tanaka K.)
The top handicap of 58.5kg is a challenge, but his 5th place finish in the Fukushima Kinen (GIII) proves he has the class. He’s shown “powerful strides” in training. If the race becomes a test of raw power, he could overcome the weight.
The Meiner Stable (Meiner Monde & Meiner Ocean)
Horses with the “Meiner” name often excel at Nakayama. Both are sons of Gold Ship (from the Stay Gold line), a pedigree renowned for success on this course.
- Meiner Monde: Looking to bounce back from an 8th place finish in the Chunichi Shimbun Hai. Training reports suggest he is “showing signs of improvement.”
- Meiner Ocean: An up-and-comer fresh off a victory. He’s in excellent form and “maintaining good condition.”
4. Bloodline Trends for Nakayama Kinpai
The winter turf conditions at Nakayama favor specific pedigrees.Stamina-based Sunday Silence LinesSires like Kizuna (Angola Black, Westnow) and Gold Ship (Meiner Monde, Meiner Ocean) who impart both stamina and power are highly successful here.European Northern Dancer InfluenceTough European bloodlines like Harbinger (Grandia) and Frankel (Kanerafina) are unfazed by the dry winter turf. Look for horses built for wars of attrition.
5. Final Conclusion
For final selections and recommended bets, which will incorporate last-minute factors like track conditions and paddock appearance, we advise consulting expert analysis. Click the link below to view professional conclusions for the race.
See Final Picks for Nakayama Kinpai (External) →
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