Guide to the main contenders in the G1 Kikuka Sho
Wednesday, 16 October, 2024 20:48
Meisho Tabaru (C)netkeiba
Here we analyse the form of the main chances in the upcoming G1 Kikuka Sho.
After setting a strong pace in the Satsuki Sho, Meisho Tabaru was able to set a steady pace and utilize his stamina in the Kobe Shimbun Hai, playing to his strengths. Although his performances in the spring Classics were less than ideal, this talented horse, who won the Mainichi Hai, is back on track after winning the Kikuka Sho trial.
His mental growth since the spring has been evident, and he is well-positioned to the final 3-year-old Classic. With Kikuka Sho winner Gold Ship as his sire, the extended distance plays to his advantage. Jockey Suguru Hamanaka will ride him, and he is primed to make up for his spring disappointments.
Japanese Derby winner Danon Decile, returning after a break, had no issues with the slower pace in his last race and handled the distance well. He was scratched from the Satsuki Sho but came back strong in the Japanese Derby, winning convincingly. With impressive training results last week, his preparation looks solid, and he is poised to capture his second Classic title. Norihiro Yokoyama will be in the saddle.
Other notable contenders include Urban Chic, who has shown marked improvement since the spring, Cosmo Kuranda, strong in stamina-driven races, the fast-finishing Peace One Duc, the blossoming talent of Redentor, and Shonan la Punta, known for his strong finishing kick. All are eyeing victory in the final Classic for 3-year-olds. The race is set to start at 3:40 PM JST.
After setting a strong pace in the Satsuki Sho, Meisho Tabaru was able to set a steady pace and utilize his stamina in the Kobe Shimbun Hai, playing to his strengths. Although his performances in the spring Classics were less than ideal, this talented horse, who won the Mainichi Hai, is back on track after winning the Kikuka Sho trial.
His mental growth since the spring has been evident, and he is well-positioned to the final 3-year-old Classic. With Kikuka Sho winner Gold Ship as his sire, the extended distance plays to his advantage. Jockey Suguru Hamanaka will ride him, and he is primed to make up for his spring disappointments.
Japanese Derby winner Danon Decile, returning after a break, had no issues with the slower pace in his last race and handled the distance well. He was scratched from the Satsuki Sho but came back strong in the Japanese Derby, winning convincingly. With impressive training results last week, his preparation looks solid, and he is poised to capture his second Classic title. Norihiro Yokoyama will be in the saddle.
Other notable contenders include Urban Chic, who has shown marked improvement since the spring, Cosmo Kuranda, strong in stamina-driven races, the fast-finishing Peace One Duc, the blossoming talent of Redentor, and Shonan la Punta, known for his strong finishing kick. All are eyeing victory in the final Classic for 3-year-olds. The race is set to start at 3:40 PM JST.