On March 23, 2025, the Hanshin Daishoten (GII) will take place at Hanshin Racecourse, serving as a prelude to the prestigious Tenno Sho (Spring) scheduled for May 4. This storied race has gained a reputation over the years for its consistency, particularly since the past decade saw the first place favorite securing victory five times, alongside a commendable record of one second and two third-place finishes. Consequently, in terms of trifecta payouts, only four times in ten years have these exceeded 10,000 yen. The race is set to attract attention, owing to several competitive horses entered this year, including World Speed (runner-up last year), Brozza Horn (third place), and the impressive Shownan Ramping.
Over the years, the Hanshin Daishoten has witnessed exceptional performances. Notably, in 2019, the race saw the 6th favorite, Cafe Pharinx, finish second, while the 10th favorite, Load Vendome, clinched third place, resulting in trifecta payouts exceeding 80,000 yen. Additionally, in 2021, the heavily favored Aristoteles, who was set at 1.3x odds, suffered a crushing defeat, paving the way for the unexpected third finish of 9th favorite Namura Donau Van. These historical instances serve as an example of how unpredictable this race can be, raising questions about the outcomes for this year.
This year promises to be equally thrilling, with eleven entries confirming their participation. The course used will be the Hanshin turf over 3000 meters, commencing near the second corner exit, and features approximately 350 meters leading to the first corner. Notably, this track requires navigational precision, with a total of six corners and a 1.8m incline over a 356.5m straight that follows about 1.5 laps. These factors contribute to creating conditions that require not only speed but also smart tactics from the jockeys.
Analyzing The Competition
Prominent contenders this year include Shownan Ramping, who is anticipated to perform strongly based on a noteworthy uphill speed demonstrated in previous races. After finishing fourth at the Nikkei Shinshun Hai as the top favorite, Shownan Ramping managed to sustain a difference of 0.5 seconds from the leader throughout the race. He also showcased his stamina with respectable finishes in prior major competitions. Meanwhile, Brozza Horn, the winner of the Takarazuka Kinen, demonstrated impressive longevity and is expected to perform well, despite a recent dip in performance.
World Speed finished second at last year's event, making him a serious contender this time round. Additionally, Golden Snap, the Manyo S winner, demonstrated strong potential last season, finishing 5th against superior competition while hoping to capitalize on the extensive training and maintaining confidence in stamina. Sunrise Earth, another horse to watch, is noted for his performance in the previous three races where he fared significantly well among formidable competitors.
Rain fell during the past week, yet the condition of the Hanshin turf has remained exemplary for race day. The forecast indicates sunny weather ahead, further enhancing the probabilities of optimal running conditions. Expert analysis emphasizes that jockey strategies will be crucial to the race's outcome. The favorable turf conditions suggest a brisk pace, and early execution by leading horses will be crucial.
In summation, the Hanshin Daishoten presents an exciting lineup where tactical acumen will be tested against the backdrop of historical precedence. The race epitomizes a blend of tradition, skilled jockeying, and thoroughbred racing excellence, illustrating the unpredictable nature of equestrian competition. Stakes as high as they are, could this year bring about another surprise?
