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SARGA.CO- The stage is set for one of the most anticipated races in recent Japanese racing history. On Sunday (14/6), Hanshin Racecourse will host the Grade 1 Takarazuka Kinen, the traditional spring finale of the Japan Racing Association (JRA) season. 

With a total prize purse of ¥651 million, a stacked lineup of fan-voted champions, and a bevy of stories heading in, the Spring Grand Prix has all the elements of a blockbuster free-for-all. 

One way or another, Japanese horse racing fans are set for a memorable conclusion to the first half of the 2026 season. 

Having already captured the Osaka Hai and Spring Tenno Sho, Croix du Nord enters the Takarazuka Kinen with history on the line and a target on his back. Victory would make him the first horse ever to complete Japan's Spring Senior Triple Crown and earn an additional ¥300 million bonus on top of the winner's prize.

The son of Kitasan Black also topped the fan poll with a record-breaking 366,039 votes, reflecting his enormous popularity among racing fans.

According to his trainer Takashi Saito, fatigue is not a concern despite this being the horse’s third G1 start in about two and a half months.

"It's finally reached the point where he can run properly, something like that," evaluated Takashi Saito, following the final workout.

Standing in his way is Meisho Tabaru, who returns to Hanshin with legendary jockey Yutaka Take. 

The Gold Ship progeny captured the 2025 edition in front-running fashion and has continued to perform at the top level, including second place in the Osaka Hai. Trainer Mamoru Ishibashi expressed confidence in his composed condition.

Another one to look out for is Museum Mile, whose achievements already includes victories in the 2025 Satsuki Sho and 2025 Arima Kinen, proving his versatility against the very best.

Now looking to add a second Grand Prix race to his growing collection, the Takarazuka Kinen will also mark his first meeting with Croix du Nord since his loss to him in last year's Japanese Derby with the same jockey for this race, Damian Lane.

“Just recently he hasn’t had his engine working full throttle, but that’s always the pattern with him,” mentioned assistant trainer Yuichi Tomomichi.

The strength of this year's field extends far beyond the leading trio, as the depth of talent spans multiple generations and divisions of champions converging on Hanshin for a single showdown.

Danon Decile, winner of the 2024 Japanese Derby, has officially joined the race and arrives after a solid campaign since then, including a third-place finish in the Osaka Hai. His participation adds another proven G1 star to an already loaded lineup.

Also among the major contenders are Regaleira, 2024 Arima Kinen winner, and My Universe, an improving stayer with strong recent form, as well as Mikuni Inspire and Byzantine Dream, competitiors that have the potential to outperform their odds.

Gate Number. Horse Name (odds)

1. Danon Decile (7.7)
2. Museum Mile (5.9)
3. Sugar Kun (213.9)
4. Mikuni Inspire (54.4)
5. Croix du Nord (2.4)
6. Byzantine Dream (29.0)
7. Family Time (303.7)
8. Tagano Dude (81.9)