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Kanichi Kusano notes, “If you’re living in Japan and read a sports section, the top three activities are featured. 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 over five decades. That explains the nation are emotionally invested.”

Renewed Ambition

For thousands of Japanese racing fans journeying to Paris and millions more watching from Japan, the moment has arrived annually. Ever since the first entrant, Japan’s pioneer contender at the Arc, came in 11th back in 1969, another 32 have tried and failed. On Sunday, additional challengers – Byzantine Dream, Alohi Alii and Croix Du Nord – will make the attempt.

As an example of determination amid heartbreaking losses, it’s nearly unmatched in international sport. England fans might complain about 59 years of hurt, but the national team does at least have a global title. Over the last 30 years, the nation’s turf sport has expanded to become the richest and most successful globally. All it has to show despite massive investment and extensive travel is a string of increasingly agonising disappointments.

Heartbreak and Near-Misses

• A 1999 runner came up just short against Montjeu having led to the final strides.
• The legendary Deep Impact, bringing masses of supporters, nearly triumphed that year before being disqualified over a drug violation.
• An unexpected challenger was narrowly beaten by the winning horse.
• The 2012 favorite took command a furlong out yet veered and got caught by Solemia.

Unfavorable track conditions along with ill fortune, during the event, have both played a part in the string of losses. Runners used to lightning-fast going domestically falter in softer conditions that generally prevails this time of year. An expert perspective suggests it was a gradual education. “As a horse owner victorious in the Derby, the natural conclusion is: ‘We can conquer Europe,’ but sometimes it’s not the case while it seems alike, the challenges are unique.

“Domestic tracks are very level with domestic runners are trained to become sprint specialists, abroad, you need an SUV, because the surface seems perfect yet underfoot, the going varies. This is why trainers and owners have studied a lot to select entrants which both run on smooth ground and greater resilience.

This Year's Hopefuls

Notably the latest entrants for this year’s Arc experienced what could be described as localized buildup: an extended midsummer break then a tune-up event. While not the largest squad ever sent in an Arc – four runners in 2022 placed apart in the lower positions – but it has impressive quality.

So perhaps this will finally be the year for the devoted supporters receive their due for unwavering support to their equine heroes.

“Fundamentally, wagering is limited across the country and there are only four authorized betting sports, one of which is thoroughbred racing,” he adds. “Yet the governing body has worked effectively of changing the image away from mere gambling into a broader entertainment that everyone can enjoy, and bonding people to the events in a different way internationally.

“In the view of enthusiasts, with elite runners participating, supporters make the trip, to feel part of the drama. We’ve won in Hong Kong and Dubai in numerous locations where conditions align, the Arc remains the final goal for a long time.”