A former JRA representative explains, “Anyone in Japan and read a sports newspaper, three key disciplines come up. Baseball is one, next is sumo, and the other one is thoroughbred racing. We are always exposed to racing, and these athletes are stunning. The challenge and passion are palpable, with the Arc as the ultimate goal in this long-running endeavor for more than 50 years. I think that’s why fans in Japan are emotionally invested.”
Renewed Ambition
Countless enthusiasts from Japan making the 12,000-mile round trip along with many more following live broadcasts, the moment has arrived annually. Ever since the first entrant, the initial representative at the Arc, finished 11th back in 1969, 32 more have tried and failed. At Longchamp, another trio – this year’s candidates – will make the attempt.
A prime instance of determination amid heartbreaking losses, few stories compare globally. British followers may grumble regarding their own drought, yet their squad does at least have a global title. Since the 1990s, the nation’s turf sport has developed as the leading and most lucrative internationally. All it has to show despite massive investment and countless journeys are numerous of frustrating outcomes.
Close Calls
- El Condor Pasa finished half a length behind Montjeu having led to the final strides.
- The legendary Deep Impact, who drew tens of thousands, finished a close third in his attempt though subsequently disqualified due to a prohibited substance.
- An unexpected challenger lost by a mere head the winning horse.
- The 2012 favorite sprinted ahead in the final stretch but wandered and was chased down at the line.
Bad ground along with ill fortune, during the event, have both played a part to the winless streak. Entrants familiar with firm turf domestically falter on testing tracks that generally prevails at Longchamp in early October. Kusano, though thinks it has also been an evolving strategy. “If you are an owner and you win a Japanese Derby, often the thought is: ‘The Arc is possible,’ yet that isn’t true while it seems alike, the challenges are unique.
“Racing surfaces in Japan tend to be uniform and local thoroughbreds developed into precision machines, abroad, more versatile athletes, as the turf looks green and smooth in reality, it feels different. This is why trainers and owners have adapted their approach to bring horses able to handle variety with added stamina.
Current Contenders
Interestingly the latest entrants for this year’s Arc have all had a typically localized buildup: time off in summer then a tune-up event. This isn’t the most numerous group ever sent in an Arc – a quartet two years ago finished widely further back – yet they possess an unusual sense of strength in depth.
Is success imminent for the devoted supporters celebrate at last for their indefatigable devotion behind their stars.
“Fundamentally, betting is restricted across the country only a handful of officially approved gambling sports, including thoroughbred racing,” notes the expert. “However, the JRA has done a very good job in rebranding the sport from purely a betting sport to a more diverse sport for general audiences, connecting fans to the events in a different way compared to elsewhere.
“From a Japanese fan’s aspect, with elite runners participating, naturally, fans journey, to experience the excitement. Victories in Hong Kong and Dubai in numerous locations with similar surfaces, the Arc remains the final goal for decades.”
