The 60th Shinzan Kinen (GIII), a crucial mile race for three-year-olds, is set for January 12, 2026. We break down the key prediction points for this Classic trial, focusing on the pedigree and latest training form of four leading contenders: Altorums, Barcesheet, Dia Diamond, and Monopolio.
Key Takeaways
- ➤The 2026 Shinzan Kinen is on Jan 12 at Kyoto Racecourse over 1600m (turf).
- ➤Top contenders are Altorums, Barcesheet, Dia Diamond, and Monopolio.
- ➤Barcesheet, sired by Kizuna, stands out for his exceptional breeding.
- ➤Each horse’s final workout condition is crucial for successful betting.
Shinzan Kinen 2026: Race Overview
| Date | Monday, January 12, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Post Time | 15:45 |
| Course | Kyoto Racecourse, Turf 1600m (Right-handed, Outer A-Course) |
| Forecast | Sunny / Good to Firm |
The Kyoto 1600m outer course demands both explosive speed and stamina, with a downhill section leading into a long final straight. It’s a stage where high-potential horses often prove their class.
Top Contenders: A Deep Dive
This year’s field is competitive. We’ve analyzed four horses drawing the most attention, examining their pedigree and recent training form.
Altorums (Ritō, Nonaka Stables)
| Projected Rank | 1st Favorite (4.6 odds) |
|---|---|
| Pedigree | Isla Bonita x Screen Hero |
Profile & Pedigree:
Inherits agility from sire Isla Bonita and growth potential from damsire Screen Hero. Already a winner over this course and distance in his debut, proving his suitability. A solid maternal line adds to his appeal.
Recent Training:
Clocked a sharp 11.3s final furlong in his Jan 8 workout on the woodchip course. Showed dynamic, powerful strides while easily besting his partner. His condition appears consistently high.
Barcesheet (Ritō, Matsushita Stables)
| Projected Rank | 2nd Favorite (5.5 odds) |
|---|---|
| Pedigree | Kizuna x Lizard Island |
Profile & Pedigree:
By Kizuna, a leading successor to Deep Impact. His siblings include G1 winner Resistencia and other stakes winners, giving him arguably the best pedigree in the field. His potential is immense.
Recent Training:
Showed improved focus in his Jan 8 workout on the Ritō hill course, clocking 12.1s for the final furlong. He displayed a powerful, energetic stride, signaling he’s ready to rebound from his last start.
Dia Diamond (Mihō, Tezuka Stables)
| Projected Rank | 3rd Favorite (5.6 odds) |
|---|---|
| Pedigree | Saturnalia x First Dude |
Profile & Pedigree:
A promising offspring of freshman sire Saturnalia. His American damsire, First Dude, injects speed and power. While returning from a 23-week layoff, he has a good record fresh, making his fitness key.
Recent Training:
Effortlessly marked 12.0s for the final furlong in his Jan 8 workout on the Mihō hill course, finishing on terms with his partner. His response was sharp and his condition seems excellent.
Monopolio (Mihō, Mori Stables)
| Projected Rank | 4th Favorite (6.2 odds) |
|---|---|
| Pedigree | Real Steel x Pulpit |
Profile & Pedigree:
Sired by Dubai Turf winner Real Steel. He belongs to a brilliant family with successful siblings like Shonan Zanadu and Miss Elte. He has the class to contend for a graded stakes title.
Recent Training:
Clocked a 12.4s final furlong on the Mihō hill course on Jan 8. He worked with cheekpieces, and his initial sluggishness has improved with each gallop. The equipment change could be beneficial.
Pace & Track Analysis
A “medium pace” is anticipated. The Kyoto track is expected to be in excellent condition. Front-runners like Realize Brave and Dia Diamond will likely set the pace, with Altorums and Monopolio positioned closely behind. Watch for the late charges from strong finishers like Barcesheet and Thunderstruck.
The Verdict: Our Final Selections
After weighing the pedigree, training form, and projected race flow, our professional conclusion is ready. Click below to see our final picks and betting strategy for the Shinzan Kinen.View Final Picks & Betting Slip
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