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Elite milers have succeeded in the Mile Championship run at Hanshin on Sunday.

Gran Alegria is just one of those. Are there more like her in the 2021 Mile Championship (1600m) at Hanshin on Sunday?

2021 MILE CHAMPIONSHIP - RACE HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

The Mile Championship is a Grade 1 race run under Set Weight conditions for three year olds and above at Hanshin racecourse conducted by the Japan Racing Association.

The Mile Championship is run over 1600m. It was first run in 1984 and was won by Nihon Pillow Winner.

The Mile Championship was worth JPY281,800,000 in 2021.

Maurice is the best recent winner of the Mile Championship. It was his lead up run to taking the Hong Kong Mile. That was one of the first confirmations of his outstanding ability.

Hanshin racecourse is a right handed course with the start at the top of the back straight.

In the 37 runnings, five horses have won dual editions.

The 3yos won in 2017/2018 but it was back to 2000 for the previous winner.

International riders have had a great trot with the likes of Christophe Lemaire, Olivier Peslier, Ryan Moore, Mirco Demuro and William Buick all winning it.

Gran Alegria came off winning the Sprinters Stakes to score and would also win a Victoria Mile the following season.

Notable winners of the Mile Championship include Gran Alegria (2020), Indy Champ (2019), Mikki Isle (2016), Maurice (2015), Daiwa Major (2006/2007), Durandal (2003/2004), Zenno El Cid (2001), Taiki Shuttle (1997/1998), Genuine (1996), Daitaku Helios (1991/1992), Oguri Cap (1989) and Nihon Pillow Winner (1984/1985).

The 2020 Mile Championship was won by Gran Alegria from Indy Champ and Admire Mars.