URAWA Nadeshiko Open 2026: Contender Updates & Bloodline Analysis
January 8, 2026•Urawa Racecourse•1400m Dirt
This article delves into the key factors for predicting the outcome of the URAWA Nadeshiko Open. We provide detailed reports on the recent form, training, and bloodline background for top contenders, including the highly anticipated Reina Barrows.
Race Highlights
- Main Event: The URAWA Nadeshiko Open is a key race for 3-year-olds on the 1400m dirt track at Urawa Racecourse on Jan 8, 2026.
- Top Contenders: Reina Barrows races on a short one-week break after a win, while Tunashi returns after 9 weeks, meticulously prepared.
- Ones to Watch: Wine Chan is riding the momentum of a previous victory, aiming for a consecutive win.
Contender Updates & Form
Reina Barrows
Odds: 2.6
Stable: Kenichi Handa
Trainer’s Comment: “Running on a short interval is a challenge for a filly, but she’s maintaining her condition. I feel she has great potential, so I have high hopes.”
Latest Training:
Jan 2 (Fri) at Urawa (Good), marked 55.0-40.1 at a canter.
Tunashi
Odds: 4.6
Stable: Satoshi Kokubo
Trainer’s Comment: “We’ve trained her thoroughly to encourage growth. Her spirit is excellent, and she should showcase her high sense for racing.”
Latest Training:
Jan 4 (Sun) at Urawa (Slightly Heavy), clocked 54.5-40.0 (full gallop at end).
Wine Chan
Odds: 7.3
Stable: Maki Hirayama
Trainer’s Comment: “The competition is tougher, but her condition is good, so we’re hopeful.”
Latest Training:
Jan 5 (Mon) at Urawa (Slightly Heavy), recorded 56.9-41.2 (canter).
Asian Vision
Odds: 7.9
Stable: Yutaka Kawashima
Trainer’s Comment: “She has competitive speed. If she gets a clean break from the gate and takes the lead, she has a chance.”
Latest Training:
Dec 26 (Fri) at Urawa (Heavy), marked 57.7-42.3 (canter). Sharp movements.
Bloodline Analysis
Reina Barrows
Sire: Henry Barrows (Deep Impact line) • Damsire: Bluegrass Cat (Storm Cat line)
Aptitude: The dam’s sire being from the Storm Cat line—a source of American speed—suggests a high aptitude for dirt tracks.
Tunashi
Sire: California Chrome (A.P. Indy line) • Damsire: Keym Home (Mr. Prospector line)
Aptitude: Her sire is a world-class dirt champion. This pedigree, balanced with power and speed, is ideal for dirt racing.
Wine Chan
Sire: Tanino Frankel (Sadler’s Wells line) • Damsire: To the Glory (King Kamehameha line)
Aptitude: Carries potential for both turf and dirt. The King Kamehameha bloodline on the dam’s side enhances adaptability to Japanese tracks.
Rutonel
Sire: Copano Rickey (Gold Allure line) • Damsire: Manhattan Cafe (Sunday Silence line)
Aptitude: Her sire is a dominant force in dirt racing. This composition excels in stamina and endurance.
Conclusion
The 2026 URAWA Nadeshiko Open is shaping up to be a showdown between the talented Reina Barrows and the rapidly improving Tunashi. While Reina Barrows rides the momentum of a recent victory, the well-rested and perfectly conditioned Tunashi poses a significant challenge. Contenders like Wine Chan and the speedy Asian Vision should not be underestimated.