Stellenbosch with Joao Moreira won the G1 Oka Sho (Japanese 1000 Guineas), the first leg of the fillies' Classics. Ascoli Piceno finished second and Light Back came home in third. Horses finishing in the top five clinched a spot in the G1 Japanese Oaks.

Winning jockey Moreira was gleeful post race, and said, "The start wasn't the fastest, but we were in a satisfactory position and I rode with a good rhythm throughout. Entering the straight, the response was good and she showed an incredible turn of foot. Even after taking the lead, she had plenty left in the tank and demonstrated a brilliant way to win. She's a fantastic horse." Looking towards the Oaks, he affirmed, "She was relaxed during the race and I think she will have no problem with the distance extending. There's much to look forward to. She has great potential."