The 73rd Hanshin Daishoten (G2), set to take place on March 23, 2025, at Hanshin Racecourse, promises to gather some of the most challenging thoroughbreds vying for supremacy over the 3000 meters of turf. This notable event acts as a preliminary race for the prestigious Tenno Sho (Spring), with the winner obtaining priority entry. This year, the competition features several standout contenders, including Golden Snap, Blow the Horn, Shownan Lapuntas, and Velocista.
Golden Snap, the 5-year-old mare, has risen to prominence after securing her first victory at the Manyo Stakes. Having never finished outside the top five across her 14 starts, her consistency places her among the favorites for the upcoming race. Last year, she finished 5th at the same event, and with her recent form, she is seen as having the potential to achieve something historic for mares, whose best finish has only been 2nd place, as seen through the careers of Takeno Velvet and Denim and Ruby.
Blow the Horn, the reigning champion of the Takarazuka Kinen, is anticipated to make his mark as well. Despite experiencing unexpected setbacks last autumn—where he placed 11th at the Kyoto Daishoten, 12th at the Japan Cup, and 12th at the Arima Kinen—his prior achievements, including last year's 3rd place at this very race and 2nd at the Tenno Sho (Spring), indicate he may be recapturing his top form.
Meanwhile, Shownan Lapuntas, increasingly impressive both physically and mentally, processed his developmental gains by finishing 4th at the Kikuka Sho last year and 2nd at this year’s Nikkei Shinshun Hai. He is now partnered with renowned jockey Yutaka Take, which adds another layer of expectation to his performance this time around. Analysts expect Shownan Lapuntas will effectively utilize his stamina and strength to assert himself during this long-distance challenge.
Similarly, Velocista enters the race on solid footing, following three consecutive victories prior to his last outing. Despite finishing 4th in the Nikkei Shinshun Hai, his experience competing at high stakes since last summer exhibits his readiness for this rigorous challenge. His performance will be closely monitored to see if he can continue his upward momentum.
The Hanshin Daishoten not only draws competitors aiming to demonstrate their talents but also tests the mettle of those typically training for longer races. Recent statistics reveal patterns worth noting: horses who competed at central JRA venues have outperformed those from other classes, boasting over 36% placements among the top three spots. Notably, this has been consistent—and trainers recommending horses from graded races tend not to miss their mark.
Notable horses qualifying under these parameters include Blow the Horn and Warp Speed, both of whom are aiming for strong performances. Conversely, contenders like Velocista, Sunrise Earth, and Sunrise Soleyu have histories marked by lesser performances at this level, contributing to cautious expectations for their chances.
Golden Snap’s tactical advantage lies not only with her physical prowess but with her established rhythm within previous races, exhibiting the ability to maintain momentum. If she can establish her lead early, it could spell difficulty for her challengers. Meanwhile, competitors like Shownan Lapuntas and Velocista will be relying on strategic late pushes to secure their positions.
Rider decisions greatly influence outcomes, as displayed by the potential pairing of experienced jockeys with breakout horses. Yutaka Take's debut with Shownan Lapuntas is particularly noted for its possibility to amplify the horse's speed and stamina. Also, any unforeseen race conditions, whether concerning weather or track quality, can shift the playing field drastically.
Last year’s Hanshin Daishoten witnessed the rivals battling fiercely across the distance, and the historical data—yielding victory to first-time favorites—hints at strategic play becoming key this time around. Stamina, adaptability, and experience will form the bedrock of success, with every horse needing to exhibit these qualities to secure their chance at victory.
The upcoming 73rd Hanshin Daishoten promises to be thrilling, with competition expected to rage as the runners dash toward the finish line. All eyes will be set on the racetrack as each contender navigates the challenges posed by distance, speed, and strategy, hoping to make history.