Aufheben

Won over the course and the distance last year. Finished out of frame in recent two starts.

Deep Rich

Showed little in this class. After typically racing from the back, he changed tactics and led, producing a solid fourth-place finish two starts back.

Gaiamente

In his previous race, he found himself stuck in traffic at the final turn and was unable to make a move. While settling remains a key concern, the 1800m distance is not his issue.

Meiner Ocean

First win in 12 months in 2-win class (2000m) last time. First time in Kyoto.

Namura Hooker

In his last race, despite being held up patiently, his finishing kick was somewhat lacking. On tracks with a short homestretch, he may be difficult to fully show his late speed. Good record at Kyoto previously finishing fourth at this class over the same distance.

Noble Sky

Battled fiercely and won by a head in the lower class (1800m) here in February. Had two digit-finish in two starts at this class.

Push On

Tends to focus on settling during the run and relies on a late charge in the stretch. At this class, the race flow doesn’t always work in his favor, but he consistently shows a good turn of foot. Shouldn’t be overlooked.

Rickenbacker

Has not won any race over four years. Showed little in seven starts this term. Hard task.

Seven Magician

Stepped up to graded stakes two and three starts back. A consistent performer at this level, and his recent workouts have been more intense than before. He’s capable of better.

Shonan Rapidus

Returned from a layoff and carried top weight last start. Despite traveling well, he didn’t finish as strongly as expected. In two starts back, he nearly won in this class. Even with the return to a right-handed course after some time, he should be competitive.

Weep Delight

Dam is a winner of the G1 Ashland Stakes in the US, while his sire, Duramente, claimed victory in the G1 Satsuki Sho with a powerful late charge from behind. Since won the lower class, he has shown little in the last three starts.

Wide Aladdin

No extra at the final turn last start. As it was his third run of the summer, fatigue may have been a factor. Ideally, he performs best in races where the race develops into a stamina test. Still, he’s generally a smart, consistent runner who rarely puts in a poor effort.