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An industry expert observes, “If you’re living in Japan and open a racing paper, the top three activities come up. One is baseball, sumo wrestling is another, and the final one is the sport of kings. Racing is ever-present, and these athletes are stunning. There is drama and romance, and a challenge to the Arc in this long-running endeavor for half a century. That explains the nation are emotionally invested.”

Annual Pilgrimage

Countless enthusiasts from Japan journeying to Paris along with many more tuning in back home, the moment has arrived once again. Beginning with Speed Symboli, the first Japanese-trained runner in Europe’s premier race, came in 11th back in 1969, three dozen others attempted without success. On Sunday, additional challengers – this year’s candidates – aim to break the streak.

A prime instance of unwavering effort amid heartbreaking losses, there is little to match it in international sport. British followers might complain regarding their own drought, but the national team boasts a global title. In recent decades, the nation’s turf sport has grown as the richest and most successful internationally. But the return after enormous spending and extensive travel is a string of increasingly agonising disappointments.

Close Calls

• One early contender was narrowly defeated by Montjeu after leading until the last moment.
• A national icon, attracting huge crowds, finished a close third in his attempt later stripped of placement over a drug violation.
• Nakayama Festa lost by a mere head Workforce.
• Perhaps the most painful charged into a clear lead with a furlong to go yet veered and got caught in the closing strides.

Bad ground along with ill fortune, regarding post positions and racing incidents, have both played a part to the winless streak. Runners used to lightning-fast going in Japan falter on testing tracks typically found during the Arc. However, Kusano suggests it was a gradual education. “As a horse owner taking a classic race, the natural conclusion is: ‘We might be able to win an Arc,’ however, reality differs while it seems alike, the competition is distinct.

“Racing surfaces in Japan tend to be uniform and local thoroughbreds developed into precision machines, but in Europe, more versatile athletes, as the turf looks green and smooth in reality, it feels different. Hence trainers and owners have adapted their approach to bring horses which both run on smooth ground and greater resilience.

2024's Trio

Notably that the three Japanese challengers set to compete have all had what could be described as French preparation: an extended midsummer break followed by a prep race. It is not the biggest team ever sent overseas – four runners in 2022 were spread out among the also-rans – however, there is impressive quality.

Is success imminent allowing the pilgrims are rewarded for unwavering support behind their stars.

“Fundamentally, betting is restricted nationally with just four permitted activities, including the turf,” he adds. “Yet the governing body has done a very good job of changing the image away from mere gambling into a broader entertainment that everyone can enjoy, connecting fans with the sport in a different way internationally.

“For local supporters, with elite runners participating, of course people will travel, to feel part of the drama. Victories in Hong Kong and other regions across various venues with similar surfaces, the Arc remains that we have wanted to tick for decades.”