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An industry expert observes, “Anyone in Japan and pick up a sports section, three key disciplines come up. One is baseball, one is sumo wrestling, and the final one is the sport of kings. The sport is ubiquitous, and the horses are magnificent. It’s full of excitement and allure, especially the Arc quest because we’ve been trying to win for more than 50 years. This is the reason fans in Japan are emotionally invested.”

Annual Pilgrimage

For thousands of Japanese racing fans making the 12,000-mile round trip plus additional viewers following live broadcasts, the season is here annually. Since Speed Symboli, the first Japanese-trained runner in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, came in 11th back in 1969, three dozen others sought victory in vain. This year, three more – the latest hopefuls – will make the attempt.

As an example of unwavering effort amid heartbreaking losses, there is little to match it globally. England fans may grumble regarding their own drought, but the national team can claim a major trophy. In recent decades, Japan’s racing industry has grown as the richest and most successful globally. But the return after enormous spending and countless journeys is a series of frustrating outcomes.

Bitter Defeats

• One early contender finished half a length behind the winner while in front until the last moment.
• The legendary Deep Impact, who drew tens of thousands, nearly triumphed in 2006 though subsequently disqualified for banned medication.
• An unexpected challenger was just a head behind Workforce.
• The 2012 favorite charged into a clear lead in the final stretch then drifted and was chased down at the line.

Bad ground combined with misfortune, during the event, have been factors in Japan’s 0-for-33 record. Runners used to lightning-fast going domestically falter on the deep ground that generally prevails this time of year. However, Kusano thinks it has also been a gradual education. “If you are an owner and you win a Japanese Derby, the natural conclusion is: ‘We might be able to win an Arc,’ yet that isn’t true because it looks similar, the challenges are unique.

“Racing surfaces in Japan tend to be uniform and local thoroughbreds developed into like a Formula One car, abroad, you need an SUV, because the surface appears pristine yet underfoot, it feels different. And that’s why the Japanese connections have researched extensively to bring horses able to handle variety with added stamina.

2024's Trio

Notably the latest entrants in the upcoming race have all had what could be described as European training regimen: time off in summer followed by a prep race. While not the largest squad ever sent in an Arc – four runners in 2022 finished widely further back – but it has an unusual sense of strength in depth.

Could this be the breakthrough allowing the pilgrims receive their due for their indefatigable devotion for these athletes.

“In essence, betting is restricted in Japan and there are only four authorized betting sports, among them horse racing,” Kusano says. “However, the JRA has succeeded of changing the image from purely a betting sport as a multifaceted spectacle accessible to all, connecting fans with the sport uniquely internationally.

“For local supporters, when we have star horses lining up, naturally, fans journey, to feel part of the drama. Success abroad and other regions across various venues on comparable tracks, and this is the box the elusive prize for a long time.”