Contrail (Jpn) remains undefeated with victory in Saturday’s Gr1 Hopeful Stakes (2000m) at Nakayama, his first at the highest level.
Starting favourite in the 13-strong field, Contrail was settled in fourth place along the rails as Panthalassa set the early speed.
Allowed to improve before the home turn, Contrail pressed for the lead 200m out and went on to defeat Weltreisende by 1-1/2 lengths.
It is the third win from as many starts for the Yoshito Yahagi-trained Contrail, the 46th Gr1 winner for Deep Impact (Sunday Silence).
Contrail’s granddam Folklore (Tiznow) won four of her eight starts including the 2005 Gr1 Breeders’
Cup Juvenile Fillies and Gr1 Matron Stakes.
Further back Contrail traces to Schuylerville Stakes winner Striking (War Admiral), US Broodmare of the Year in 1961.
Hopeful stakes (G1) T2000m
1st Contrail 118
2nd Weltreisende 115
3rd Wakea 112Contrail was magnificent.
I think He will win 2000 Guineas.
Because it is same corse as today.Wakea was also good.
I hope he will get Classic title. pic.twitter.com/AP2HnE9NuB— Quote (@Quote1156) December 28, 2019