The anticipated Hanshin Daishoten is set to unfold at the Hanshin Racecourse on March 23, 2025, marking an important stepping stone towards the illustrious Tenno Sho (Spring). This 3000-meter Grade 2 race gathers some of the finest horses, and this year, all eyes are on the talented Velocista (2) and the powerful Shownan Rappunta (1).
According to the latest predictions, Velocista is expected to dominate with a remarkable score of 90, positioning him as the top contender. Despite a previous fourth-place finish in the Nikkei Shinshun Hai, sources indicate that the horse has shown consistent improvement and readiness for this race. SIVA, an AI-driven racing analysis platform, has included Velocista in its projections, reflecting confidence in its potential.
Competing closely with Velocista are Shownan Rappunta and Golden Snap, both boasting scores of 74 points. Shownan Rappunta, having finished second in its last outing at the Nikkei Shinshun Hai, is regarded as a significant challenger. Golden Snap, which recently triumphed in the Manyo Stakes, could also pose a threat.
This year’s Hanshin Daishoten promises to be highly competitive. The top four in predictions—Velocista, Shownan Rappunta, Golden Snap, and Macoto Vereekey (69 points)—are all expected to showcase remarkable performances. Betting tips suggest a box bet on these four horses, amounting to a total of six recommended bets, including a strategic bet on Velocista.
Jockey Masaya Kawada, who rode Velocista in the Nikkei Shinshun Hai, expressed confidence in the horse’s performance, stating, “Today, Velocista did everything he could.” However, he hinted at some challenges the horse faced during that race, including an awkward moment at the fourth corner where Velocista veered outward. The experienced rider explained that returning to the right-hand track at Hanshin might benefit the horse, given its successful record there previously.
Interestingly, past results have shown that the Hanshin Daishoten is often a precursor to the Tenno Sho (Spring), with four out of the last ten winners also taking the glory in the latter. This indicates the caliber of horses that compete in this race and underscores its status in the racing calendar. Additionally, there are patterns to be noted in previous contests: five of the top three finishers in the last ten years came from the ranks of the favorites.
Over the last decade, the favorites have dominated the Hanshin Daishoten, with all winners being six years old or younger. Notably, Shownan Rappunta is young, with a history of close finishes in prestigious races, including second in the Aoba Sho and third in the Kobe Shimbun Hai. This could give Shownan Rappunta an edge in the upcoming race.
Another horse to watch is War Speed, who previously impressed by finishing second in the Melbourne Cup. Despite being untested in Grade races, his credentials as a stayer are commendable, making him a potential threat in this race.
Brozza Horn is also notable; after a successful previous season, he will aim to regain form after a stretch of poor performances. Having won the Takarazuka Kinen, he remains a formidable contestant, although consistency is his primary hurdle.
The race will begin at 15:30 on March 23, 2025, and is attracting considerable attention from racing enthusiasts and experts alike. A total of 11 horses will compete, each with unique attributes, aiming for the coveted opportunity to secure a spot in the prestigious Tenno Sho (Spring).
With the combination of fresh competition, a historic track record, and expert forecasting, the 2025 Hanshin Daishoten is shaping up to be a thrilling event that could very well redefine the paths of many horses ahead of their ultimate goals.
