Geofront

Finished third here last year. Inconsistent in five starts since, but still competitive. Lacks kick and has suffered from lack of pace. Returning after 5 months unprepped. Could surprise.

Hishi Chouchou

Returned after 4 months for test over Nakayama 2500m in second start at this level. Far outside gate, moved up easily on outside, lined up in front, but overtaken in final strides. Looking light on feet in work. Promising.

Ho O Sunday

Moving up in class following two runs in money, including first over Nakayama 2200m last out on 1 October. Longest distance yet but racing sense, late speed strongpoints. Suits Nakayama. Can handle any going.

Kindlich

Versatile with excellent late speed but has failed to make top three in last five starts. Finished close fourth in last start (over Nakayama 2500m) after 2 months off. Looking good in trackwork.

Meiner Messiah

Moved up in class to finish 5th here last year. Six starts since brought best 7th.  Not promising.

Nishino Funfair

Only three starts on turf since moving from dirt. Returned after 3 months for first start at this level, and finished ninth over Fukushima 2600m. Showing improvement since, but Nakayama a tougher test.

Oken Bolt

Tends to lead, one gear. Results inconsistent, but had good run over Tokyo 2400m recently. Could surprise with return to Nakayama.

Oken Rosita

Honest runner but last 15 finishes all off board, including Nakayama 2500m. Races from off pace but lacks late speed. Likely outclassed.

Satono Shalom

Returned after 2 1/2 months off to post 2-8 over Fukushima 2600 and (most recently) Nakayama 2500m. Considerable weight loss from summer may not bode well for tougher test of Nakayama.

Shadow Madness

Has best a sixth in four starts since moving to this class. Overall speed lacking. Could get lucky but Nakayama 2500m a high bar amid tougher competition.

Shine Yunibansu

Consistently makes board, with four seconds from 8 starts since reaching this class. Good late speed. Returned after 2 months to post second over Nakayama 2500m on 3 December. Promising.

Sublime

Has been racing at this level since late 2019 when finished fifth in this race. Has only made top three in three of next 21 starts. Best a sixth in five starts this year. Overall lacking.

Syringa Vulgaris

Moving up in class after wire-to-wire win over Fukushima 2600m. Speed good but not outstanding. Nakayama a much higher bar.

Tagano Barcos

Honest runner made good effort last month for fifth over Tokyo 2400m. Previously posted sixth over Nakayama 2500m. Unruly in pre-parade ring. Being given hard hill work, perhaps too hard. Worth a wager.