January 10, 2026•By HorseStat Analytics
Key Takeaways
- The Biwako Tokubetsu is a tough race on Kyoto’s 2400m outer turf, where pedigree and condition are crucial.
- Kingscall, sired by Duramente out of a Frankel mare, shows signs of a strong comeback with an impressive final workout.
- Alondite, a Harbinger colt, thrives on Kyoto’s long courses, boasting stamina from his dam’s sire, Epiphaneia.
- Fleuraison, by Orfevre, possesses hidden stamina and explosive power; improved composure could be the key to an upset.
- Dark horse Pandeascar, a Maurice colt, has been impressive in training and could contend if he leverages his inside draw.
- Despite a small field, the race is packed with talent. Kingscall is the favorite, but Alondite and other dark horses are worth watching.
Contents
Race Overview
- Date: Monday, January 12, 2026
- Post Time: 14:30 JST
- Track: Kyoto Racecourse, Race 9
- Conditions: Turf 2400m (Right, Outer, A-Course)
- Weather/Track: Sunny / Good
- Field Size: 12 Horses
This demanding race on Kyoto’s outer 2400m turf course often becomes either a test of late-sprint speed from a slow pace or a true stamina battle. Pedigree and current form are paramount.
Contender Analysis
Favorite: Kingscall (4-y-o Colt)
The clear standout and leading contender in this race.
Potential from a Duramente x Frankel Pedigree
With sire Duramente and dam’s sire Frankel, his bloodline combines the top tiers of Japanese and European racing. The key will be how his sire’s growth potential and dam’s sire’s deep stamina translate over this distance.
Pristine Condition: Final Workout & Stable Comments
In his final workout on Jan 8, he clocked an excellent time under a light canter. The stable commented, “He’s more settled after the break, and his stride is excellent. He’s showing clear signs of a return to form.” He appears to be in peak condition.
Main Rival: Alondite (4-y-o Colt)
The strongest challenger to Kingscall.
Distance Aptitude from Harbinger Progeny
His pedigree is Harbinger x Epiphaneia (dam’s sire). As is typical for Harbinger’s offspring, he excels on Kyoto’s long courses. The added stamina from Epiphaneia makes him well-suited for this distance.
Excellent Form Shown on the Ritto Training Track
In his Jan 8 workout, he was praised for a “flexible, elastic stride with a closing speed that felt faster than the numbers suggest. He remains in excellent spirits,” indicating he’s ready to perform.
Dark Horse: Fleuraison (5-y-o Mare)
Sired by Orfevre out of a Timber Country mare, she has the stamina and explosive power of the Stay Gold line.
Orfevre’s Explosive Power
Watch for her to unleash the trademark grit and tenacity of Orfevre’s progeny in this long-distance battle.
Potential Upset with Improved Composure
The stable notes, “Now that she’s settling better, the outer course should be a plus.” If she can maintain her composure, she has upset potential.
Longshot: Pandeascar (6-y-o Colt)
His pedigree is Maurice x Stay Gold (dam’s sire). AI models rank him highly with an expected return value score of “83.”
Maurice x Stay Gold & AI Rating
He combines the finishing kick of a Maurice colt with the tenacity of Stay Gold, making him a threat if the race unfolds in his favor.
Strong Training & Inside Draw
His latest workout was impressive: “Full of forward momentum even under a canter, with excellent power.” He shouldn’t be underestimated if he can use his inside draw effectively.
Full Entrant List & Evaluation
| Gate | Horse Name | AI Odds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pandeascar | 8.0 | B-Grade Workout |
| 4 | Win Daisy | 5.9 | AI Rank #2 |
| 5 | Kitasan Hanabira | – | 4th Favorite |
| 6 | Kingscall | – | Top Pick ★ |
| 7 | Fleuraison | – | 3rd Favorite |
| 7 | Alondite | – | 2nd Favorite |
| 8 | Ortho Paratium | – | Improving |
*Odds and popularity are predictive values as of the time of writing.
Final Verdict & Betting Slip
This year’s Biwako Tokubetsu features a small but talented field with strong pedigrees. Kingscall is the one to beat, but the Kyoto-loving Alondite and high-scoring AI dark horses cannot be ignored. See our final conclusions and betting picks at the link below.View Final Picks & Conclusion →