* This article is written for Umamusume users.
[February Stakes]
Since : 1984 (February Handicap : G3)
Upgraded to a G1 race : 1997
Entry Requirements
Ages 4 and up (Gender and whether the horse is a gelding do not matter)
Maximum number of starters : 16
Course
Tokyo Dirt 1600m (However, for about 50 meters from the start, run on the turf)
Preliminary race (Winning horses are given priority entry rights)
Procyon Stakes (G2 Kyoto Dirt 1800m)
* Since 2025, it has been held on the current schedule, with the timing of the event swapped with the Tokai Stakes.
Negishi Stakes (G3 Tokyo Dirt 1400m)
[Overview]
The February Stakes, established in 1984, along with the Winter Stakes (now the Tokai Stakes), is the oldest graded race on dirt tracks conducted by the JRA.
In 1997, it became the first G1 race held on a dirt course in the JRA, and today it is a race that, along with the Champions Cup, determines the pinnacle of dirt racing.
In the Umamusume game, races are scheduled based on the 2019 calendar. At that time, the Kawasaki Kinen was held in late January or early February, but due to the schedule change in 2024, it is now held in early April. As a result, the February Stakes has become the first G1 race of the year.
As mentioned above, the first 50 meters from the starting point are run on turf, so some horses may not be able to accelerate (In the game, turf suitability does not apply).
Also, while 1600 meters is a common distance in horse racing, at JRA racecourses, races 1600 meters on dirt are held only at Tokyo Racecourse, and some horses may have an advantage depending on the course suitability.
Since 2016, the winner of this race has been granted an automatic entry to that year's Breeders' Cup Classic.
In recent years, there are times when the top horses are absent, as they travel to races in Saudi Arabia or Dubai.
Who will claim victory in the first G1 race of the year?
Past Champion Horses Who Became Umamusume
Shinko Windy (1997)
Agnes Digital (2002)
Espoir City (2010)
Transcend (2011)
Copano Rickey (2014,15)
