G1 Japan Cup preview by our original AI

Wednesday, 20 November, 2024 16:26

Sol Oriens (Photo: Yuki Shimono)

This weekend's racing will feature three graded stakes including the G1 Japan Cup on Sunday at Tokyo Racecourse. This article will introduce you to three notable runners in the Japan Cup chosen by our original AI.

Sol Oriens is a highly talented colt who captured the G1 Satsuki Sho undefeated after three starts. He continued to shine on the Classic trail with a second-place finish in the G1 Japanese Derby and a third in the G1 Kikuka Sho. This year, he has also proven competitive at the top level, finishing second in the G1 Osaka Hai.

In his most recent outing, the G1 Tenno Sho (Autumn), Sol Oriens finished seventh. While his initial response when asked in the stretch was lacklustre, he picked up momentum late and showed a promising turn of foot near the finish. Given his strong performances in the Japanese Derby and Kikuka Sho, the step back up in distance should suit him. Additionally, Sol Oriens has performed well on softer ground, so he could become a serious contender if the going turns heavy.

Do Deuce, the 2022 Japanese Derby winner, has shown an exceptional affinity for Tokyo Racecourse's 2400m turf course. He delivered a stunning late charge in the Tenno Sho (Autumn), clocking a blistering 32.5 seconds for the final three furlongs to secure his fourth G1 title.

That race was his first start after a layoff, and he is expected to improve further this time. In his final trackwork, Do Deuce displayed impressive form, easily outworking two open-class rivals on the woodchip track. With momentum on his side, a stronger performance is anticipated. This will be his penultimate race, as he is set to retire after the G1 Arima Kinen, and connections are eager to send him out on a high note.

Stars On Earth had finished in the top three in her first 12 career starts before her eighth-place finish in the G1 Dubai Sheema Classic, the first time she missed the board. However, this result may be dismissed as a one-off due to unforeseen circumstances, including an abrupt jockey change after Christophe Lemaire's injury and signs of greenness during the race.

Since then, she has been given a break and now returns for her seasonal debut. Notably, Stars On Earth finished third in last year's Japan Cup following a similar layoff, demonstrating her ability to perform well fresh. She also boasts strong Tokyo credentials, including a win in the G1 Japanese Oaks and a third in the G1 Victoria Mile. Returning to her favoured course, she has every chance to bounce back and make herself a big contender.

LATEST NEWS

Show More

RANKING

SEARCH NEWS