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An industry expert observes, “Anyone in Japan and read a racing paper, the top three activities appear. One is baseball, one is sumo wrestling, and the final one is the sport of kings. The sport is ubiquitous, and these athletes are stunning. There is drama and romance, with the Arc as the ultimate goal as Japan has pursued victory for half a century. I think that’s why the nation are deeply connected.”

Annual Pilgrimage

Countless enthusiasts from Japan traveling the long distance plus additional viewers watching from Japan, the moment has arrived once again. Since Speed Symboli, the first Japanese-trained runner in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, finished 11th in 1969, three dozen others sought victory in vain. This year, another trio – this year’s candidates – will take their shot.

One standout case of determination despite repeated setbacks, it’s nearly unmatched globally. British followers may grumble regarding their own drought, however, the team boasts a World Cup win. Over the last 30 years, Japan’s racing industry has developed to become the richest and most successful globally. All it has to show despite massive investment and extensive travel are numerous of frustrating outcomes.

Close Calls

• El Condor Pasa came up just short against Montjeu while in front near the finish.
• A national icon, who drew tens of thousands, nearly triumphed in 2006 later stripped of placement due to a prohibited substance.
• An unexpected challenger lost by a mere head the winning horse.
• The 2012 favorite sprinted ahead with a furlong to go but wandered and was chased down by Solemia.

Bad ground combined with misfortune, during the event, have contributed in Japan’s 0-for-33 record. Entrants familiar with lightning-fast going in Japan falter on testing tracks that generally prevails at Longchamp in early October. An expert perspective believes it’s also a gradual education. “As a horse owner taking a classic race, normally they will think: ‘We might be able to win an Arc,’ but sometimes it’s not the case while it seems alike, the challenges are unique.

“Racing surfaces in Japan tend to be uniform and local thoroughbreds developed into like a Formula One car, abroad, a sturdier type, since the ground appears pristine yet underfoot, it feels different. And that’s why racing teams have researched extensively to bring horses which both run on smooth ground and maybe have an element of SUV.

This Year's Hopefuls

It is certainly striking that the three Japanese challengers set to compete experienced what could be described as European training regimen: time off in summer then a tune-up event. While not the largest squad that Japan has fielded in an Arc – several in the past were spread out in the lower positions – yet they possess impressive quality.

So perhaps this will finally be the year for the devoted supporters celebrate at last for unwavering support behind their stars.

“In essence, gambling is prohibited nationally with just four authorized betting sports, one of which is horse racing,” notes the expert. “But the Japan Racing Association has done a very good job of changing the image away from mere gambling as a multifaceted spectacle accessible to all, uniting enthusiasts with the sport uniquely to other countries.

“From a Japanese fan’s aspect, with elite runners lining up, supporters make the trip, to experience the excitement. Success abroad and Dubai and most places on comparable tracks, this trophy is the final goal for decades.”