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A former JRA representative notes, “If you’re living in Japan and pick up a sports section, the top three activities appear. One is baseball, next is sumo, and the third is thoroughbred racing. Racing is ever-present, and these athletes are stunning. There is drama and romance, and a challenge to the Arc because we’ve been trying to win for half a century. That explains fans in Japan are emotionally invested.”

A Tradition of Hope

A multitude of devotees traveling the long distance and millions more following live broadcasts, the season is here annually. Beginning with Speed Symboli, the first Japanese-trained runner in Europe’s premier race, came in 11th over five decades ago, three dozen others have tried and failed. At Longchamp, three more – the latest hopefuls – will make the attempt.

As an example of persistence despite repeated setbacks, it’s nearly unmatched in international sport. Supporters of England may grumble about 59 years of hurt, but the national team does at least have a global title. Since the 1990s, Japanese horse racing has grown as the wealthiest and top-performing internationally. But the return after enormous spending and countless journeys are numerous of frustrating outcomes.

Heartbreak and Near-Misses

• El Condor Pasa was narrowly defeated by the winner after leading to the final strides.
• Deep Impact, bringing masses of supporters, nearly triumphed in 2006 later stripped of placement over a drug violation.
• The 2010 entry was narrowly beaten by the victor.
• The 2012 favorite charged into a clear lead in the final stretch yet veered and was chased down at the line.

Heavy going combined with misfortune, during the event, have been factors in the string of losses. Runners used to firm turf domestically often struggle in softer conditions common in Paris this time of year. However, Kusano suggests it was part of a learning process. “As a horse owner and you win a Japanese Derby, the natural conclusion is: ‘The Arc is possible,’ but sometimes it’s not the case because it looks similar, the challenges are unique.

“Racing surfaces in Japan are very level and the Japanese horses bred to be like a Formula One car, but in Europe, more versatile athletes, since the ground appears pristine yet underfoot, the going varies. Hence racing teams have studied a lot to bring horses which both run on smooth ground with added stamina.

2024's Trio

It is certainly striking this year’s trio 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 – a quartet two years ago finished widely among the also-rans – however, there is impressive quality.

Could this be the breakthrough for the devoted supporters are rewarded after years of loyalty behind their stars.

“In essence, wagering is limited in Japan and there are only four permitted activities, one of which is horse racing,” Kusano says. “However, the JRA has succeeded in rebranding the sport beyond wagering to a more diverse sport accessible to all, and bonding people to the events in a different way internationally.

“From a Japanese fan’s aspect, with elite runners lining up, of course people will travel, to feel part of the drama. Victories in Hong Kong and Dubai and most places where conditions align, and this is the box the elusive prize for a long time.”