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An industry expert explains, “Anyone in Japan and open a sports newspaper, three major sports are featured. Baseball is one, one is sumo wrestling, and the final one is horse racing. We are always exposed to racing, and these athletes are stunning. It’s full of excitement and allure, with the Arc as the ultimate goal as Japan has pursued victory for more than 50 years. This is the reason the nation are deeply connected.”

Annual Pilgrimage

For thousands of Japanese racing fans journeying to Paris plus additional viewers tuning in back home, it is that time once again. Since Speed Symboli, the first Japanese-trained runner at the Arc, finished 11th back in 1969, three dozen others have tried and failed. This year, additional challengers – the latest hopefuls – will take their shot.

As an example of unwavering effort despite heartbreaking losses, it’s nearly unmatched globally. England fans could lament about 59 years of hurt, yet their squad does at least have a major trophy. Over the last 30 years, Japan’s racing industry has grown to become the leading and most lucrative internationally. But the return despite massive investment and countless journeys are numerous of painful near-misses.

Heartbreak and Near-Misses

• A 1999 runner was narrowly defeated by Montjeu having led near the finish.
• A national icon, who drew tens of thousands, was less than a length behind in his attempt before being disqualified for banned medication.
• An unexpected challenger was just a head behind Workforce.
• The 2012 favorite charged into a clear lead with a furlong to go but wandered and was chased down in the closing strides.

Unfavorable track conditions along with ill fortune, with the draw and in the race, have been factors in Japan’s 0-for-33 record. Entrants familiar with lightning-fast going in Japan come unstuck on testing tracks that generally prevails at Longchamp in early October. Kusano, though believes it’s also a gradual education. “For an owner and you win a Japanese Derby, the natural conclusion is: ‘We can conquer Europe,’ but sometimes it’s not the case since it appears comparable, the competition is distinct.

“Racing surfaces in Japan are very level and the Japanese horses bred to be precision machines, overseas, a sturdier type, since the ground seems perfect yet underfoot, the going varies. Hence racing teams have researched extensively to bring horses suited to firm conditions and maybe have an element of SUV.

Current Contenders

Notably that the three Japanese challengers for this year’s Arc underwent what could be described as French preparation: a summer hiatus then a tune-up event. This isn’t the most numerous group that Japan has fielded for this race – four runners in 2022 were spread out in the lower positions – yet they possess an unusual sense of strength in depth.

So perhaps this will finally be the year allowing the pilgrims receive their due after years of loyalty to their equine heroes.

“Basically, betting is restricted across the country and there are only four officially approved gambling sports, including the turf,” he adds. “However, the JRA has done a very good job to reshape perceptions beyond wagering into a broader entertainment accessible to all, and bonding people to racing in a different way internationally.

“From a Japanese fan’s aspect, as top competitors lining up, supporters make the trip, to share in the challenge. We’ve won in Hong Kong and Dubai in numerous locations on comparable tracks, the Arc remains the elusive prize over many years.”