Who to watch in the G1 Hopeful Stakes
Monday, 23 December, 2024 22:22
Magic Sands delivered a performance in the Sapporo Nisai Stakes that was even more dominant than the narrow margin suggested. Though still a work in progress, this colt possesses exceptional ability and is expected to be a major player in the G1 Hopeful Stakes. Here are the main contenders for the final JRA-G1 of the year.
Magic Sands, winner of the Sapporo Nisai Stakes, edged out rivals in a close finish. However, the runner-up, Arma Veloce, went on to win the G1 Hanshin Juvenile Fillies, confirming the high level of competition. Magic Sands had to circle wide and move early, demonstrating his exceptional stamina. His racing style and physique suggest that the challenging Nakayama Racecourse 2000m should suit him well. He aims to remain undefeated and claim his maiden G1 title under jockey Daisuke Sasaki.
Croix du Nord returned from a summer break to capture the Tokyo Sports Hai Nisai Stakes, despite coming off a layoff with noticeable weight gain, indicative of his growth and potential. His ability to win graded stakes under such conditions highlights his potent ability. Though both of his wins came at Tokyo Racecourse, his tactical versatility and ability to race near the pace suggest he will adapt well to Nakayama Racecourse. This colt also seeks an undefeated G1 victory, with jockey Yuichi Kitamura aboard.
Other notable contenders include Amakihi, the offspring of Apapane, who showed grit to win his debut race, and Masquerade Ball, a full sibling to Masked Diva, who performed well in G1 races. Giovanni, who faced tough competition in his last two starts, Piko Chan Black, whose debut victory was nothing short of spectacular, Yamanin Bouclier, who battled against Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes runner-up Museum Mile.
The G1 Hopeful Stakes, the last JRA-G1 of the year, promises to be a thrilling finale. Post time is 3:40 PM JST.
Magic Sands, winner of the Sapporo Nisai Stakes, edged out rivals in a close finish. However, the runner-up, Arma Veloce, went on to win the G1 Hanshin Juvenile Fillies, confirming the high level of competition. Magic Sands had to circle wide and move early, demonstrating his exceptional stamina. His racing style and physique suggest that the challenging Nakayama Racecourse 2000m should suit him well. He aims to remain undefeated and claim his maiden G1 title under jockey Daisuke Sasaki.
Croix du Nord returned from a summer break to capture the Tokyo Sports Hai Nisai Stakes, despite coming off a layoff with noticeable weight gain, indicative of his growth and potential. His ability to win graded stakes under such conditions highlights his potent ability. Though both of his wins came at Tokyo Racecourse, his tactical versatility and ability to race near the pace suggest he will adapt well to Nakayama Racecourse. This colt also seeks an undefeated G1 victory, with jockey Yuichi Kitamura aboard.
Other notable contenders include Amakihi, the offspring of Apapane, who showed grit to win his debut race, and Masquerade Ball, a full sibling to Masked Diva, who performed well in G1 races. Giovanni, who faced tough competition in his last two starts, Piko Chan Black, whose debut victory was nothing short of spectacular, Yamanin Bouclier, who battled against Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes runner-up Museum Mile.
The G1 Hopeful Stakes, the last JRA-G1 of the year, promises to be a thrilling finale. Post time is 3:40 PM JST.