This looks a two-horse match race between the Japanese Dancing Prince (last years’ race winner) and the United States Breeders Cup Sprint (G1) victor from last November Elite Power.
Dancing Prince – The leading Japanese contender. Winner of eleven of his sixteen race starts he is returning to the scene of his greatest and most convincing victory in this race last year to defend his title. His last race was a Listed victory in Japan in November. To be ridden by Australian jockey Damian Lane he likes to lead and is the horse that sets the standard.
Elite Power – Raced by Juddmonte Farms. Won the Breeders' Cup Sprint at Keeneland in November making it five straight. Settles mid-field and finishes strongly. Good chance for success.
Freedom Fighter – Looks outclassed on recent form filling an occasional minor place in Meydan (UAE) G3 races.
Gunite – Good record over this distance in the United States and has the advantage of a prep run at Oakland on a sloppy track. Not the roughest.
Justin – Six of his nine wins have been over this distance but has struggled these past two years in Group level races. Well held sixth in this race two years ago.
Meraas – This is his preferred distance. Whilst a winner to G3 in the past this well-travelled horse may struggle against this field.
Pagan – Winner of his past three all course and distance in Open races he is yet to face a Black Type event. Has the track experience and is in good form. Could surprise.
Remake – Smart Japanese performer and winner of five of nine race starts (four over 1400m), once over this trip when a 4L victor in G3. Lightly raced and progressive four-year-old with claims.
Ryuno Yukina – An eight-year-old from Japan with a solid record over this distance. Placed in all starts last season with all races over this trip including second behind Dancing Prince in Listed race in November. Place.
Selections
- Dancing Prince
- Elite Power
- Remake
- Pagan
