Can the New Star Rik…
January 7, 2026
The 69th New Year Cup (SIII), a pivotal race for three-year-olds on the road to the classics, kicks off at Urawa Racecourse. We’re breaking down the top contenders, from Sumatra Flavor to Road Raging, analyzing their latest track work, race history, and pedigree to deliver key insights for this crucial showdown.
The 69th New Year Cup (SIII), a 1500m dirt race for three-year-olds, takes place at Urawa Racecourse on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. This key race on the classic trail has attracted a field of talented prospects. Here’s our breakdown based on recent training, performance, and pedigree.
Sire: Mozu Ascot | Damsire: Gleneagles
Entering as a stakes winner after his victory in the Heiwa Sho (SIII). While he was defeated in the Kamakura Kinen after a training disruption due to a thunderstorm cancelling the Wakamusha Sho, he bounced back impressively in the Heiwa Sho. Trainer Inamasu credits the use of a shadow roll and being able to set his own pace as key factors. The team has targeted this race, stating, “We have high hopes if he can lead or sit just off the pace on the outside.” His condition remains excellent, proven by a strong workout on Jan 3rd at Funabashi. Despite a 58kg weight assignment, his agility and speed make him a horse to watch.
Sire: Mozu Ascot | Damsire: Neo Universe
His suitability for the Urawa course is already proven with a strong performance in the Rookies Summer Cup (SIII). He battled Sumatra Flavor to a mere 0.1-second difference in the Heiwa Sho, showing he’s on equal footing in terms of ability. Trainer Kato is confident, stating, “His condition is excellent.” He showed impressive, maturing movement in his Jan 3rd workout at Kawasaki. The 58kg weight could be a challenge for his slender frame, but if he handles it, his finishing kick is among the best in the field.
Sire: Makfi | Damsire: Brian’s Time
In his last race, he secured second place despite a wide trip after making a move on the backstretch while the winner enjoyed an easy lead. This is his first stakes challenge against tougher competition, but his previous victory at Urawa with the fastest closing time shows his affinity for the track. The steady 56kg weight is also a plus. His final workout on Jan 2nd was outstanding, clocking a fast time at Funabashi and out-finishing his workmate by 0.6 seconds. He is in peak condition.
Sire: Van Gogh | Damsire: Deep Sky
This colt is from a strong lineage, with his older brother being the five-time stakes winner Seika Meteopolis. The Haiseiko Kinen was a tough spot coming off a layoff and a poor start, but he rebounded to win decisively in his last outing against class three two-year-olds. His workout on the Kobayashisaka training track on Jan 5th was sharp, with Trainer Tanaka commenting, “He’s had an ideal training regimen and we have no concerns about his fitness.” Although it’s his first time at Urawa, his pedigree suggests potential for growth, and the partnership with top jockey Hiroto Yoshihara is a major asset.
The prevalence of Mozu Ascot progeny is a key factor in this race. Top contenders Sumatra Flavor and Road Raging are joined by Handen Drake, who has a second-place finish in the Kamakura Kinen to his name. Mozu Ascot, a son of Frankel, produces offspring with a blend of speed and power, which could be perfectly suited for the demanding 1500m at Urawa that requires both traits.
Additionally, Yagiri Ibis, sired by Makfi, has Brian’s Time (a Roberto line stallion) as his damsire. This combination provides the agility and stamina necessary for success on a tight-turning track like Urawa.
Based on training data from the last two weeks, these horses showed particularly impressive movement:
With a field full of promising contenders, the New Year Cup is shaping up to be a competitive race. The race flow and track conditions on the day will be critical factors.
View My Final Picks & Betting Slip