Japanese Colt Finger to Target Pacific Classic Stakes at Del Mar

Finger, a 3-year-old Japanese-bred colt by Gun Runner, will travel to the U.S. this summer to target the Pacific Classic Stakes (G1) at Del Mar. According to Nikkan Sports, trainer Hiroyasu Tanaka plans to use the $1 million race to evaluate a potential start in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

Why is Finger targeting the Pacific Classic?

The Pacific Classic offers a $1 million purse and serves as a Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series “Win and You’re In” event. A victory grants an automatic berth into the Oct. 31 Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) at Keeneland.

Trainer Hiroyasu Tanaka told Nikkan Sports that he decided to advance to the Pacific Classic as a primary goal. Tanaka noted that the results of the Del Mar race will determine if the colt proceeds to the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

Finger enters the U.S. campaign with significant momentum. He recently won the $1.06 million Tokyo Derby at Oi Racecourse, securing the second leg of the Japan Dirt Triple Crown by 1 1/2 lengths.

What is the pedigree behind Finger’s success?

Finger is a product of international breeding strategy. He was sired by Gun Runner, the marquee stallion for Three Chimney Farm, and bred in Japan by Masahiko Sugino. He’s campaigned by M’s Racing.

The colt’s dam, Estilo Talentoso, a daughter of Maclean’s Music, was purchased by JS Company for $600,000 at the 2021 Fasig-Tipton November Sale. According to race records, she also finished second in the G1 Madison Stakes at Keeneland, trailing Kimari by three-quarters of a length.

The mare remained in Kentucky to be bred to Gun Runner before her export to Japan. This combination of U.S. dirt speed and Japanese conditioning has produced a horse that has never finished worse than second in eight career starts.

How does Finger’s record compare to elite dirt targets?

Finger’s consistency is a key factor in his U.S. bid. With a record of 4-4-0, he’s banked $1,303,486 in earnings. This puts his current earnings slightly above the $1 million purse offered by the Pacific Classic.

The transition to Del Mar will test Finger’s ability to handle 1 1/4 miles on U.S. dirt. While the Tokyo Derby provided a lucrative payout, the Pacific Classic offers the prestige of a Grade 1 victory and a direct path to the world championships.

FAQ: Finger’s U.S. Campaign