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An industry expert notes, “If you’re living in Japan and pick up a sports section, three major sports appear. Baseball is one, next is sumo, and the final one is horse racing. The sport is ubiquitous, and these athletes are stunning. It’s full of excitement and allure, especially the Arc quest as Japan has pursued victory for more than 50 years. That explains fans in Japan are emotionally invested.”

A Tradition of Hope

Countless enthusiasts from Japan traveling the long distance along with many more tuning in back home, the moment has arrived as usual. Since Speed Symboli, Japan’s pioneer contender in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, came in 11th over five decades ago, another 32 sought victory in vain. On Sunday, three more – the latest hopefuls – will make the attempt.

As an example of unwavering effort in the face of repeated setbacks, there is little to match it globally. British followers could lament over decades of disappointment, however, the team can claim a major trophy. In recent decades, Japan’s racing industry has grown into the leading and most lucrative globally. But the return after enormous spending and countless journeys is a string of increasingly agonising disappointments.

Heartbreak and Near-Misses

• A 1999 runner was narrowly defeated by the champion having led near the finish.
• Deep Impact, attracting huge crowds, nearly triumphed in his attempt though subsequently disqualified due to a prohibited substance.
• Nakayama Festa lost by a mere head the victor.
• The 2012 favorite took command a furlong out yet veered and got caught in the closing strides.

Heavy going and bad luck, regarding post positions and racing incidents, have been factors in Japan’s 0-for-33 record. Horses accustomed to quick surfaces domestically come unstuck on the deep ground typically found at Longchamp in early October. However, Kusano believes it’s also a gradual education. “As a horse owner and you win a Japanese Derby, often the thought is: ‘We might be able to win an Arc,’ yet that isn’t true because it looks similar, the competition is distinct.

“The Japanese turf is really flat and the Japanese horses are trained to become sprint specialists, overseas, you need an SUV, as the turf looks green and smooth in reality, it’s totally different. This is why racing teams have studied a lot to bring horses suited to firm conditions with added stamina.

Current Contenders

Notably the latest entrants set to compete have all had an almost localized buildup: a summer hiatus then a tune-up event. This isn’t the most numerous group ever sent in an Arc – several in the past were spread out in the lower positions – yet they possess an unusual sense of strength in depth.

Is success imminent for the devoted supporters celebrate at last for their indefatigable devotion for these athletes.

“Fundamentally, gambling is prohibited across the country and there are only four officially approved gambling sports, among them thoroughbred racing,” notes the expert. “Yet the governing body has succeeded to reshape perceptions beyond wagering to a more diverse sport accessible to all, and bonding people to racing uniquely to other countries.

“From a Japanese fan’s aspect, when we have star horses participating, naturally, fans journey, to feel part of the drama. Victories in Hong Kong and Dubai and most places where conditions align, this trophy is the elusive prize for a long time.”