Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun

Note: Date, Track and Qualifying Points are based on the Road to the Kentucky Derby 2020 schedule.

When: December 18, 2019

Where:  Kawasaki Racecourse (Kawasaki, Japan)

Purse: $524,000

Race Distance: 1 mile

History:  The Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun was first run in 1999 and has become an important race for two year-old horses in Japan. The race is over a flat mile on the dirt track at Kawasaki Racecourse. It became part of the official Japanese Road to the Kentucky Derby in 2017.

Long seen at one of the top races in the country for young horses, the Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun gained international interest when it became part of the Road to the Kentucky Derby. It is held on the National Association of Racing circuit in Japan, which is generally seen as of a lower standing than the Japanese Racing Association, yet this race bucks that trend and is one of the most watched horse races in the region.

Qualifying Points:  20-8-4-2

Past Winners:

2019 - Vacation
2018 - Nova Lenda
2017 - Le Vent Se Leve
2016 - Rieno Tesoro
2015 - Sound Sky
2014 - Dear Domus
2013 - Happy Sprint
2012 - Someries
2011 - Obruchev
2010 - Big Romance
2009 - Love Michan
2008 - Suni
2007 - Iide Kenshin
2006 - Furioso
2005 - Grace Tiara
2004 - Pride Kim
2003 - Admire Hope
2002 - Utopia
2001 - Principal River
2000 - Toshin Blizzard
1999 - Agnes Digital