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An industry expert notes, “Residents of Japan and read a racing paper, the top three activities appear. One is baseball, next is sumo, and the third is thoroughbred racing. We are always exposed to racing, and thoroughbreds are beautiful animals. The challenge and passion are palpable, and a challenge to the Arc because we’ve been trying to win for over five decades. This is the reason fans in Japan are so attached.”

Annual Pilgrimage

For thousands of Japanese racing fans traveling the long distance plus additional viewers following live broadcasts, it is that time as usual. Since Speed Symboli, the initial representative at the Arc, placed 11th over five decades ago, another 32 have tried and failed. On Sunday, another trio – the latest hopefuls – will make the attempt.

As an example of persistence amid heartbreaking losses, there is little to match it globally. British followers might complain regarding their own drought, however, the team can claim a global title. Over the last 30 years, the nation’s turf sport has grown as the wealthiest and top-performing internationally. Yet the result for the trillions of yen and extensive travel is a string of increasingly agonising disappointments.

Heartbreak and Near-Misses

• One early contender was narrowly defeated by the champion while in front near the finish.
• The legendary Deep Impact, bringing masses of supporters, was less than a length behind in 2006 though subsequently disqualified due to a prohibited substance.
• The 2010 entry lost by a mere head the victor.
• Perhaps the most painful took command in the final stretch yet veered and was overtaken by Solemia.

Bad ground combined with misfortune, during the event, have contributed to the winless streak. Entrants familiar with firm turf domestically often struggle on the deep ground that generally prevails this time of year. However, Kusano believes it’s also part of a learning process. “As a horse owner taking a classic race, often the thought is: ‘We can conquer Europe,’ yet that isn’t true since it appears comparable, the competition is distinct.

“Domestic tracks are very level with domestic runners developed into precision machines, but in Europe, a sturdier type, since the ground appears pristine but when you walk on it, the going varies. Hence the Japanese connections have adapted their approach to bring horses suited to firm conditions and greater resilience.

This Year's Hopefuls

Interestingly this year’s trio for this year’s Arc have all had what could be described as European training regimen: a summer hiatus and then a run in a trial. It is not the biggest team ever sent for this race – a quartet two years ago finished widely among the also-rans – but it has an unusual sense of strength in depth.

Is success imminent when the travelling fans are rewarded for unwavering support behind their stars.

“Basically, gambling is prohibited across the country only a handful of permitted activities, among them thoroughbred racing,” he adds. “Yet the governing body has succeeded of changing the image beyond wagering to a more diverse sport that everyone can enjoy, and bonding people to the events in a different way internationally.

“From a Japanese fan’s aspect, when we have star horses lining up, supporters make the trip, to share in the challenge. Victories in Hong Kong and Dubai and most places with similar surfaces, the Arc remains the final goal for decades.”