Kanichi Kusano observes, “Residents of Japan and pick up a racing paper, three major sports are featured. Baseball is one, sumo wrestling is another, and the other one is horse racing. The sport is ubiquitous, and the horses are magnificent. The challenge and passion are palpable, with the Arc as the ultimate goal as Japan has pursued victory for half a century. That explains Japanese people are emotionally invested.”
Annual Pilgrimage
Countless enthusiasts from Japan journeying to Paris along with many more watching from Japan, it is that time annually. Beginning with Speed Symboli, the initial representative at the Arc, came in 11th in 1969, 32 more attempted without success. This year, additional challengers – this year’s candidates – will make the attempt.
A prime instance of persistence in the face of repeated setbacks, it’s nearly unmatched across sports. Supporters of England could lament regarding their own drought, yet their squad boasts a major trophy. Since the 1990s, Japan’s racing industry has expanded to become the richest and most successful internationally. All it has to show despite massive investment and millions of air miles is a string of frustrating outcomes.
Bitter Defeats
- El Condor Pasa came up just short against the winner after leading to the final strides.
- Deep Impact, bringing masses of supporters, was less than a length behind that year later stripped of placement due to a prohibited substance.
- Nakayama Festa lost by a mere head Workforce.
- The 2012 favorite charged into a clear lead a furlong out then drifted and got caught in the closing strides.
Heavy going and bad luck, regarding post positions and racing incidents, have contributed to the winless streak. Horses accustomed to firm turf in Japan often struggle on the deep ground common in Paris during the Arc. However, Kusano thinks it has also been part of a learning process. “For an owner victorious in the Derby, often the thought is: ‘We might be able to win an Arc,’ but sometimes it’s not the case because it looks similar, but it’s a totally different game.
“Domestic tracks are very level and the Japanese horses are trained to become precision machines, but in Europe, you need an SUV, as the turf looks green and smooth in reality, it’s totally different. This is why the Japanese connections have researched extensively to select entrants suited to firm conditions with added stamina.
Current Contenders
Interestingly the latest entrants for this year’s Arc underwent what could be described as French preparation: an extended midsummer break then a tune-up event. It is not the biggest team ever sent in an Arc – four runners in 2022 were spread out among the also-rans – however, there is notable depth.
Could this be the breakthrough allowing the pilgrims are rewarded for unwavering support for these athletes.
“Basically, wagering is limited across the country with just four officially approved gambling sports, including the turf,” Kusano says. “But the Japan Racing Association has succeeded to reshape perceptions away from mere gambling as a multifaceted spectacle for general audiences, connecting fans to racing uniquely internationally.
“In the view of enthusiasts, as top competitors entering, supporters make the trip, to feel part of the drama. Success abroad and the Middle East across various venues with similar surfaces, this trophy is the final goal over many years.”
