Powerhouse of the Rising Sun
With a strong and deep contingent of Japanese-trained horses assembling for this year’s Breeders’ Cup, what better time to learn more about the evolution of Japan’s racing and breeding industry, and how far it has come in the past few decades. ~ Steve Haskin
Powerhouse of the Rising Sun
By Steve Haskin
Ushba Tesoro – 2023 Dubai World Cup (Photo: Masakazu Takahashi)
We are now into September and it is time to start looking at the Breeders’ Cup Classic. But what exactly are we looking at? All three winners of a Triple Crown race have not only been beaten since, they have finished out of the money in their last start and one of them is vacationing on the farm. We just watched the Travers Stakes and The Jockey Club Gold Cup and it is safe to say that for horses like City of Troy and a powerful and proven group of Japanese horses, if you’re not going to come for the Classic this year then when? Let’s just say the siren call has never been stronger.
We will know the strength of the Japanese contingent in the Classic after Forever Young runs in the Japan Dirt Classic in early October and Derma Sotogake and Ushba Tesoro square off in the Nippon TV Hai in late September. All three have proven they are more than capable of winning the Classic, and in fact may be the horses to beat. Many feel Forever Young was the best horse in the Kentucky Derby, Derma Sotogake ran an amazing race to finish second in last year’s Classic coming off a six-month layoff, and Ushba Tesoro is a relentless closer and has been a major force in top-class races wherever he has run.
This is not to suggest that Fierceness, Sierra Leone, Dornoch and and a wide-open group of older horses are pushovers, but we haven’t seen any perfomanes by them that would scare off Aidan O’Brien or the connections of any Japanese horse. They have proven, as you will read, they are not afraid of any horse, no matter how invincible they may seem.
That brings us to the main topic of this column, which is the evolution of the Japanese Thoroughbred – who they were, who they became, who they are now and how they rose from laughing stocks to the most feared and respected horses on a worldwide scale.
But let’s start at the beginning, back to the 1960s when the Washington D.C. International, run in November at Laurel, was the only true international race in the world, attracting top horses from the United States, Europe, South America, Japan, and even Russia. The race was run at a mile and a half on grass and attracted a number of Horses of the Year and future Hall of Famers from the U.S. even though many were dirt horses and grass racing was just starting to get more popular.
Despite the fact that Japanese horses had made no impact whatsoever on international racing and that their breeding program had just gotten started by importing prospective broodmares from Europe and occasionally Australia, they still sent a number of their best horses to Laurel to take on far superior opponents from America and Europe.
No one really gave a second thought to Japanese horses, such as two-time Horse of the Year Speed Symboli, whose sire line was all European and whose dam was imported from Great Britain in 1956. He came to Laurel in 1967 to take on future Hall of Famers Damascus and Fort Marcy. And no one paid attention to Horse of the Year Takeshiba O, who ran in the D.C. International in 1968 and ’69 and whose sire line was all British and whose dam was imported from Australia in 1953. Both horses, as well as the others sent from Japan during those years, were lightly regarded and never posed a threat in the race.
In the early ‘70s, the Japanese, still seeking their own identity, began expanding their horizon by purchasing big-name American stallions, just as America had done importing top European stallions like Nearco, Princequillo, Ribot, Mahmoud, Sea-Bird, and Sir Gallahad, who became the foundation of the American breeding industry.
The Japanese made headlines when they purchased their first Kentucky Derby-winning stallion, Chateaugay, from Darby Dan Farm in 1971. It was Darby Dan who had imported Ribot and Sea-Bird. The Japanese continued to purchase top-class American stallions and began buying well-bred yearlings and building up their broodmare bands. It was just a matter of time before their fortunes would begin to change.
Their first major coup came in 1972 when Zenya Yoshida purchased a Canadian-bred son of Northern Dancer as a yearling. Named Northern Taste, he won six major stakes in France and went on to become Japan’s leading sire 10 times in 11 years. Then, after the 1989 racing season, a syndicate of Japanese breeders purchased the Darby Dan colt Brian’s Time, who had won the Florida Derby and was a fast-closing second to Risen Star in the Preakness Stakes. The son of Roberto would sire two Japanese Horses of the Year and two Japanese Derby winners, as well as the winners of the Japan Cup Dirt and Japan Dirt Derby. But all his success was confined to Japan.
Their big breakthrough came when Zenya Yoshida purchased Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Sunday Silence. Yoshida owned 25 percent of the colt and bought out the other partners for $7.5 million in 1991 when the horse received little interest from American breeders. Sunday Silence would become one of the most dominant stallions in history, leading the sires list in Japan for 13 consecutive years, with his influence eventually spreading to the United States and Europe. His best son, Japanese Triple Crown winner Deep Impact, would continue his sire’s dominance by becoming the leading sire in Japan for 11 consecutive years from 2012 to 2022. His influence would spread all over the world as the sire of Auguste Rodin, winner of the Epsom Derby, Irish Derby, and Breeders’ Cup Turf; Snowfall, winner of the Epsom Oaks and Irish Oaks; Glint of Hope, winner of the Australasian Oaks in Australia; Fancy Blue, winner of the French Oaks; Study of Man, winner of the French Derby; Gentildonna, winner of the Dubai Sheema Classic, Real Steel, winner of the Dubai Turf; and Loves Only You, winner of the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf.
To demonstrate the rapid growth in the Japanese racing industry, in 1954 there were 3,000 registered Thoroughbred foals bred in Japan. By 1992 the number had swelled to nearly 13,000, as attendance and handle numbers soared. In 1990, Tokyo Race Course, which was built in 1933, drew a single day record crowd of 196,517.
During that time, with the sport ascending quickly in popularity, the Japanese felt they needed to have a race of their own that was rich enough to attract some of the best horses in the world and give their own horses a chance to compete on an international scale. In 1981 they ran the inaugural Japan Cup on grass at a mile and a half, and although the first two runnings were won by U.S.-trained horses, the race proved to be a melting pot with the first 10 runnings won by horses trained in Japan, U.S.,, Ireland, Great Britain, France, Australia, and New Zealand. In 1984 the race was designated an international group 1 event.
The Japanese racing industry continued to grow and their fans were looking for heroes. A horse named Symboli Rudolf had created a major buzz in the mid-80s by becoming Japan’s first undefeated Triple Crown winner, eventually winning 13 of his 16 career starts. But who could have imagined that a jockey would come along in the late ‘80s who not only took the sport by storm, he would become one of the country’s most famous celebrities, idolized by millions. His name was Yutaka Take and he captured the hearts of racing fans, especially the younger generation who worshipped him like a rock star. He became so popular that leading French trainer Andre Fabre put him on his star miler Ski Paradise in the 1993 Breeders’ Cup Mile and the colt finished second to Lure.
Through the 1990s the American and European influence from all their purchases continued to get stonger and the Japanese began to consider sending top horses abroad to try for some of the world’s biggest prizes. In 1995 owner Shadai Racing was extremely ambitious sending Ski Captain, a Kentucky-bred son of Storm Bird to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby even though he had only captured one listed race at 1 1/16 miles and had never run on dirt. But this also was a way to again show off Yutaka Take to America, this time in a classic. Ski Captain was never in contention, finishing 14th.
Although the Japanese were making humongous strides in racing and breeding they still were shown little respect in the United States.
In 1996 the time was right to go for a knockout punch and it was announced that owner U Taiki Farm was sending a colt named Taiki Blizzard to run in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Woodbine, despite the presence of the great Cigar and a number of other top-class American horses.
Taiki Blizzard not only had the pedigree, with his sire Seattle Slew having sired Breeders’ Cup Classic winner A.P Indy and his dam Tree of Knowledge having produced Breeders’ Cup Turf winner Theatrical, he was a big powerful colt who had a tremendous presence about him. Even Kentucky state veterinarian George Mundy commented when he first saw him, “Man, he stands out in a crowd, doesn’t he?”
This was an important race for Japan. The colt’s racing manager Nobutaka Tada said, “If he runs well, people in Japan will know that a Japanese horse can have a chance and it will give them confidence to travel here. It will be the beginning of the internationalization of Japanese racing.”
Taiki Blizzard ran poorly in the Classic, finishing 13th, and then returned the following year, finishing sixth after prepping for the race in the grade 3 Oak Tree Breeders’ Cup Mile on grass at Sana Anita, where he finshed a strong third in a three-gorse photo. Although he did nothing to convince Americans that Japanese horses could be competitive here in major races, his initial journey at least showed us that the Japanese never do anything haphazardly and are diligent and meticulous in their planning. They began preparing Taiki Blizzard for his historic journey to the ’96 Breeders’ Cup Classic two years before the race when the colt was a 2-year-old. Even while he was making a name for himself performing well in group 1 races on the grass, the blueprints for a trip to Woodbine were being drawn.
To test him on dirt they ran him twice on the new surface and he won impressively both times. Even with the daunting presence of Cigar in the Classic, they remained confident and showed no fear of America’s superhorse. In fact, when the invitations went out for the inaugural Dubai World Cup that year, it was Taiki Blizzard who was chosen to represent Japan against Cigar and the rest of the world. When a minor foot injury kept him out of the race, Lively Mount subbed for him and finished a respectable sixth in the 14-horse field.
Before undertaking the arduous and expensive trip to Canada, Taiki Blizzard’s connections decided to stage a practice run the year before. They sent the 3-year-old filly Kurofune Mystery to Aqueduct for the seven-furlong Distaff Handicap to see how she would run and how she would stand up to such a long trip. They also wanted to learn what needed to be done about shipping plans, what to bring, and how their grooms would adapt here. They felt the Distaff was the right race for her, and she ran well enough to finish third.
They also discovered that Kurofune Mystery was lonely being by herself and seemed to “feel sad” when she arrived, so they planned on sending a companion named Red Alydar with Taiki Blizzard. The reason the Japanese rarely sent a horse to America was because the purses in Japan were so large it was more profitable to stay home, especially with the high risk of traveling that far. Another factor might have been the use of race day medication (Butazolidan and Lasix). But with the Dubai World Cup and Breeders’ Cup Classic the monetary incentive was there, and it was time to show the world that Japanese horses can compete anywhere. So although it cost $250,000 to ship Taiki Blizzard to Canada they had confidence in their horse.
Dismayed by his performance and with racing fans in America still believing the Japanese simply were vastly inferior, they regrouped and waited until they had a potential international superstar to showcase.
In 1999 they turned their attention to Europe. After winning the 1998 Japan Cup, El Condor Pasa’s owner and breeder Takashi Watanabe decided to run his son of Kingmambo in France, and following a sharp second in the group 1 Prix d’Ispahan, the 4-year-old scored back-to-back victories in the group 1 Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud and group 2 Prix Foy. The Japanese turned out in full force for Europe’s biggest race, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and they cheered wildly down the stretch as El Condor Pasa finished second, beaten only a half-length, by Coolmore’s Irish and French Derby winner Montjeu.
It was a tough defeat, but Japan now had the respect of European horsemen and racing fans. Now they had to make sure they found the right horse to send to America.
Finally in 2005 they found one in a powerful filly named Cesario, the Japanese Oaks winner, owned by U. Carrot Farm, who like Taiki Bliizzard made a magnificent appearance. She was sent to Hollywood Park for the American Oaks for 3-year-old fillies on grass with its huge purse of $750,000.
Cesario – 2005 American Oaks
Fans at Hollywood may have gotten a chuckle out of Cesario when she ran off at full speed before the race, making quite a spectacle of herself, but those chuckles turned into gasps of disbelief when Cesario shrugged off her unwanted exercise that would have knocked out most horses and proceeded to demolish her field by four widening lengths in a record 1:59 flat for the mile and a quarter. It wasn’t just the victory that amazed everyone, but the filly’s power and massive stride. That would be the last time anyone would laugh at a Japanese invader. Cesario was scheduled to return later in the year for the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf, but a suspensory issue forced those plans to be scrapped.
That same year, Japan unleashed the Sunday Silence colt Deep Impact, one of their greatest horses ever and a true national hero. After becoming the second undefeated Triple Crown winner, he returned at 4 and also suffered a tough defeat in the Arc d Triomphe, finishing third, beaten three-quarters of a length, before being disqualified and placed eighth.
In 2007, Tokyo Race Course, one of five Japan Racing Association-operated tracks to host group 1 races, held a grand re-opening following a seven-year renovation project, with the new grandstand seating 120,000 fans.
The following year, Nobutaka Tada returned to the United States as racing manager for Hidetoshi Yamamoto. This time he came with a colt named Casino Drive. Just as the Japanese were not afraid of Cigar in 1996, they had no fear of running in the Belmont Stakes against the undefeated Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Big Brown. Casino Drive had been purchased at the Keeneland September yearling sale for $950,000 and if he won the third leg of the Triple Crown he would become the third consecutive Belmont winner produced by his dam Better Than Honour following the victories of her son Jazil in 2006 and her daughter Rags to Riches in 2007.
Casino Drive – 2008 Peter Pan Stakes
The plan was to give Casino Drive a prep in the Peter Pan Stakes to see how he stacked up against top-class 3-year-olds. Casino Drive toyed with his opponents, winning by almost six lengths in a swift 1:47 4/5 for the mile and an eighth. After the race, Big Brown didn’t seem quite the lock in the Belmont as he appeared to be before the Peter Pan.
Leading up to the Belmont, Casino Drive could be found anywhere on the backstretch before and after training, walking for some 45 minutes to an hour. Other times he would be walking in the paddock for about 30 minutes. There was no doubt in the eyes of those on the Belmont backstretch that the Japanese believed in keeping their horses happy by letting them stay outside for a good portion of the morning, and in the afternoon, and not be cooped up in their stall.
Unfortunately, Casino Drive suffered a stone bruise on his left rear hoof several days before the Belmont and had to be withdrawn. As it turned out, Big Brown was eased in the race, with longshot Da’ Tara wiring the field. Most people felt certain under the circumstances that Casino Drive would have romped in the Belmont.
It is now 16 years later and the Japanese have emerged as arguably the number one powerhouse in the world, winning two Breeders’ Cup races the same year, the Dubai World Cup, Dubai Sheema Classic three times, UAE Derby, Saudi Cup (the richest race in the world), Hong Kong Cup and Hong Kong Vase multiple times each, and finishing first and second in the 2006 Melbourne Cup. They also finished second two more times in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, both with Triple Crown winner Orfevre, who was beaten a neck in 2012, finishing seven lengths ahead of the third horse.
Ushba Tesoro – 2023 Dubai World Cup
In the past two years alone, Ushba Tesoro has won the Dubai World Cup and was second in the race the following year, and finished second, beaten a head, in the Saudi Cup; Derma Sotogake won the UAE Derby and finished second, beaten one length, in the Breeders’ Cup Classic off a six-month layoff; Mandarin Hero finished second, beaten a nose, in the Santa Anita Derby; and Forever Young won the Saudi Derby and UAE Derby, and was third, beaten two noses, in the Kentucky Derby, despite being bumped, jostled, and leaned on the entire stretch run by Sierra Leone.
Saudi and UAE Derby winner, Kentucky Derby 2nd place – Forever Young
Also in that Derby, another Japanese horse, T O Password, impressed everyone by rallying from 18th to finish fifth after an extremely rough start, and he did it having run only twice in his life and was expected to be on or just off the pace.
The Japanese no doubt are disappointed they haven’t won a Breeders’ Cup race since winning the 2021 Distaff with 49-1 shot Loves Only You, by Deep Impact, and the Filly and Mare Turf with 4-1 shot Marche Lorraine, by Orfevre, both trained by Yoshito Yahagi. But in actuality they proved last year what astute horsemen they are without winning a race.
UAE Derby winner, Breeders’ Cup Classic 2nd place – Derma Sotogake
As mentioned earlier, Derma Sotogake was beaten only one length by White Abarrio at odds of 26-1 in the Classic, despite his long layoff and missing his scheduled prep. And then there was Shahryar, who overcame tons of traffic to finish third in the Turf, beaten only 1 1/4 lengths at 25-1. In front of him was the best horse in England and Ireland and best grass horse in America. We also have to acknowledge the fourth-place finish of Win Marilyn, who rallied from 10th to also be beaten only 1 1/4 lengths at odds of 38-1 in the Filly and Mare Turf. Even Songline, who finished fifth in th Mile, was beaten only 1 1/4 lengths, despite being rank early. That’s four horses beaten a combined 4 3/4 lengths, three of them 25-1 or higher. And it’s not like Ushba Tesoro was embarrassed in the Classic, finishing fifth beaten 3 1/4 lengths.
This year, not only could the Japanese have all three of their heavy hitters for the Classic, but according to Kate Hunter, Japan’s representative, interpreter, and go-to person at the big U.S. events, is estimating that as of now they could have anywhere between 10 to 15 horses heading to Del Mar for the Breeders’ Cup.
Perhaps the one horse who best illustrates how Japanese horses stack up in America is the little known T O Saint Denis. This great-grandson of Sunday Silence has finished out of the money in his last seven starts in Japan, including three 13th-place finishes in his last three starts there. However, in between those last three starts he came to America and finished second in the grade 2 Alysheba Stakes at Churchill Downs at odds of 27-1.
As you have seen it has been a long journey for the Japanese getting to where they are now. Back in those days of futility and disrespect in the ‘60s they were basically novices attempting to compete with those who were far more advanced and experienced. But like they did in baseball they dedicated themselves and were disciplined enough to not only learn all aspects of the sport, but master them. They acquired horses with the finest pedigrees and produced skilled horsemen who could compete successfully anywhere. They also came up with numerous innovations, the very best training and veterinary facilities, maintained strict medication rules, and learned how to develop stars and attract fans.
There is a Japanese proverb that goes, “A skilled falcon hides its talons.” For years no one paid much attention to what the Japanese were building. And then several years ago the falcon struck and no one knew what hit them. As a result of their patience and determination to succeed at the highest level in the Sport of Kings they were able to grow from an insignificant island unto itself into a world power.
Photos courtesy of Masakazu Takahashi, Benoit Photo, Coglianese Photo, Japan Bloodstock Information System.
Racing historian, author, and award-winning retired journalist for the Daily Racing Form and The Blood-Horse, Steve Haskin was inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame’s Media Roll of Honor in 2016. Known for his racing knowledge and insightful prose, he has been an exclusive contributor to Secretariat.com since 2020.
Great read. It truly is amazing how far and fast Japan has progressed. I see them winning both the Kentucky Derby, Arc De’ Triomph, and throw in the BC Classic. Thank you for a most interesting article.
For those interested in Japane racing/breeding, Shin Emperor, the full brother to Arc winner and sire Sottsass, will endeavor to replicate his older brother’s triumph by attempting the Irish Champion Stakes this Saturday at Leopardstown then on to the Arc at ParisLongchamp on October 6.
Shin Emperor will be ridden by Ryusei Sakai in both races. US fans may remember him piloting Forever Young in the Kentucky Derby earlier in the year.
The excitement is building for the Keeneland September Yearling Sales in a few hours time. There are so many beautiful yearlings on parade especially in Books 1 & 2, wish I was there. Nonetheless, Hip 96 has caught the eye more than most: Constitution – Joyful Addiction by Munnings at least from this distance.
Enjoy all the razzle, dazzle over the next week or so.
Davids, he sure has a star-studded pedigree. Full brother to French Derby and Arc winner Sottsass and a half to BC F&M Turf winner Mysistercharlie plus Group/Graded winner My Sister Nat. If he runs to his genes, he should win going away.
Ms Blacktype, they are expecting Sun Emperor to perform better in Europe on their turf than he has in Japan. Moreover, Sun Emperor is relishing the European feed which is not common with the Japanese runners which, obviously, they are hoping is a good sign.
Have you been watching the Keeneland sale? The Constitution colt I liked went for 500. 000 which was a good price considering the dam was unraced but the family is full of grade1, two turn, winners.
Eek at Rank. I really wanted him to ship to CD to run in a route, but given the way he ran, I’m not sure he’d have been competitive in a MSW
Deserves another chance.
Mike, I’m not giving up on him, but he shouldn’t have been beaten 20 lengths
I think they should turn him out and hope he gets better as a 3 year old…
But keep an eye on Spurgeon – he’s very talented, and so is the horse who beat him, Filoso
Todd has an unraced HAP who’s very close to starting and looks very good – AP Kid
I just think Rank needs to start over
Betsy, Spurgeon is very interesting. Agreed!
He debuted on the turf and actually ran really well – wasn’t pushed. Kenny had said he’s not a turf horse, but wanted to get him experience & didn’t want to sprint him
Without the bobble at the start, he’d have been closer. Hopefully he came out of the race ok – I can’t wait to see him at CD!
Does he look anything like HAP?
Betsy,will go out on a limb stating next year for BB same tune, half of his promising Secretariat like horses lol likely ends up out for one reason or another. Wash,rinse,repeat!
Mike,
Even if what you are saying is true it still will probably leave him with 5 or 6 viable derby contenders. And then in the end only one horse (barring dead heat ) can win the Kentucky Derby. I like his chances but as with any trainer a lot of luck is involved.
For sure, no shortage on talent each and every year. However, for whatever reason injuries pile upon him.He trains too hard in many instances.
🤣🤣🤣
This BB does seem exceedingly talented, but I can’t argue with you!
It feels like all his babies can run – it’s crazy
I did not pay attention to the Del Mar Futurity…until they were loading, and my jaw dropped upon seeing Gaming–he is a large framed colt–looks like a three year old! He ended up paying 3.90-1, with Prat (another gr1, he won seven at Saratoga)…Surprisingly Citizen Bull went off the 6/5 favorite, it looked like he may have bled—he seemed to lose his action late, and nearly lost third to a tiring Getaway Car–who was hounded early by a horse that finished eased up last….Now I know why Prat flew west, for a $300k stakes, Gaming is Derby Timber….and he moved early into that :44 2/5 half, he didn’t wait
…
Matt,
Got home just in time and log into my Xpressbet acct just 3 minutes before the race started. Did not get to see any of the post parade as the horses were walking toward the starting gate. When I saw the odds I couldn’t believe Mc Kinzie Street (MS) was 9 to 1. I thought Getaway Car would be favorite (and he was when I logged in) with him being 2nd choice., but that was not the case …. he was 9 to 1. I thought didn’t these people see what I saw in his last race and he is a big horse. I saw the other 2 BB horses were vying for 2nd and 3rd favorite. I actually thought to myself well one of the BB horses is going to win this race or come in 2nd but I really thought MS could upset the apple cart. So I quickly placed a 1, 2 , 6, & 7 exacta box. and was rewarded nicely. The real mystery like you said is what happened to Citizen Bull??? He was nicely placed at the beginning of the race and made that nice move the far turn and just flattened out and shortened stride. Did Smith move him too soon or did he bleed like you said? Getaway Car got cooked by the early fractions and had nothing let in the end ( BB needs to change his running style or he will never make it )(JMO). But totally impressed with GAMING he looks like he can run all day he right now stands to be the favorite in the American Pharoah. Hopefully BB can keep him together.
BB had THREE in the race.
Totally aware of that but McKinzie Street ran such a strong race his last (first and only start) time out that he was on par those 3.
Three cheers for Gaming in the Del Mar Futurity!
He looked really good, as did McKinzie Street. And guess what, Juvenile Turf winner Artislas is by CATALINA CRUISE. Whoops.
Speaking of pedigrees, one of the runners in today’s Del Mar Futurity has a remarkable pedigree: R. Heisman, winner of the state-restricted Graduation Stakes at Del Mar. Speed figures are nothing special, but his dam is a half to two Group 1 Argentinian winners, champion miller Zillion Stars and Zodiacal, as well as Frank E Kilroe Mile (1) winner Ohio. One to watch, although for some reason I have a soft spot for Gaming. Maybe it’s the similarity of his name to one of my favorite mares from the 1960s, Gamely.
Steve Goliad and Cash Equity ran one/two yesterday, at Kentucky Downs…six days prior they ran one/three…..that is a hard/firm turf….Mandella trains Goliad….so it can be done, just like back in the day….
Catalina Cruiser has been sold to Chile by Lanes End.
By Union Rags out of Seagull (Mineshaft) his record was 9 starts, 7 wins and earnings of $711,100.
His first racing crop are 3 year olds this year.
Catalina Cruiser is a beautifully put together horse, balanced, clean legs, good bone and few minor conformation faults.
Guess it is that time of year that the big stud farms will start cleaning house to make room for retiring 3 year olds.
Lynda Catalina Cruiser sires runners! Just a huge gut shot, to me…..he has the #1 colt, in a gr3 turf stake today at Del Mar.. .
I don’t know how he’s done overall – but LE has had a reputation for patience, so to give up on him when his second crop hasn’t even had a full year seems odd.
Now maybe he’s been poorly received by breeders. Maybe he’s not financially viable to them anymore – but still, it’s awfully early. Mineshaft got off to a bad start as a sire and became reality a very good one….but that was awhile ago: maybe things have changed?
If LE is becoming more ruthless in culling sires, I may need to worry about Honor A.P. I’m happy with his start – 3 SP runners – and he’s got some good ones on the way, I think. But he need 39 mares in 2023, probably the same this year, and I’m guessing about the same for 2025.
Matthew W, it almost seems like some of the big American breeding farms are heck bent and determined to breed only 3 year old colts with a shelf life of only 3 years that they can shuttle off to the breeding shed and sell the progeny for outrageous prices. This is shutting out small breeders, small trainers and small owners and in my opinion destroying American racing.
Case in point, Heartland. Guessing you read that Heartland by Justify out of Sambucca Clasica who produced Classic Empire* has been retired to stand at WinStar.
Heartland was purchased at auction for $575,000 by Sienna, China Horse Club, WinStar and Maverick Racing. He was trained by Bob Baffert.
The colt raced one time as a two year old, breaking his maiden at Del Mar in July 2023 in MSW, 5/12 furlongs in a time of 1:03:20, earnings $49,000.
He had three workouts at 5F in 2023 after winning his maiden and one in May 2024 at 3F at the WinStar Training Center.
You do not have to take my word for it so take a look at his web page on WinStar site.
In my opinion this colt should not be anywhere near a breeding shed. He is cow hocked, slightly pigeon toed on the front legs, has downhill conformation (croup higher than withers which puts pressure on the forehand) and both hind fetlocks are puffy (also known as windpuffs). Windpuffs can be the result of hard, fast training that can result in inflammation to the flexor tendon(s).
*Classic Empire sold by Coolmore America (Ashford) to Korea after standing in Chile.
I remember his only race….I think he made up 10 lengths in the last half of the race….there was buzz….but I agree, one start is not enough….that said—Catalina Cruiser was a big muscular animal–and he has sired runners—he got a gr3 winner today, on turf— big loss…
I think Lane’s End has made a huge mistake sending Catalina Cruiser to Chile. I find it very strange that LE would do that; he’s a strikingly handsome horse with good conformation. I’m confused and disappointed.
This one looks like a big gain for Chile to me. Not one I would have packed off.
It is beyond my comprehension as to why Lane’s End would ship Catalina Cruiser to Chile; I am saddened by this turn of events.
Crown Pride just won his second Korea Cup and Remake his second Korea Sprint. Both are JPN and headed to 2024 BC.
Remake is by Lani who placed 3rd in the Belmont Stakes.
Hi Steve
Getaway Car earned the following speed figures for his Best Pal winning effort.
Equibase: 99
Brisnet: 96
Beyer: 85
I was wondering if you have the Thoro-Graph number he received in that race.
Getaway Car appears to be the one to beat in the Del Mar Futurity, IMO.
Thanks Steve.
Will Nooni (AKA Afternoon Delight), live up to expectations in the Del Mar Debutante?
I believe she will.
Baffert had two horses entered and had the winning horse. Just not the one I expected to win the Debutante. Tenma was full of run, but Nooni tired late.
I was very unimpressed with Nooni last time, so I’m not surprised
1st start 9 2nd start 9 1/4
Thanks Steve
I was expecting a lower figure.
Been busy , 1st chance I’ve had to catch up. Amazingly your subject here is what’s been on my mind. Great piece Steve and your timing was perfect! Thanks!
I see Churchill Downs has tweaked the Derby points races again. Interestingly, they are now penalizing points races with fewer than 6 starters — obviously targeting California, where CD owns no tracks. All but one of the seven international races in Europe and the Middle East will be run on turf or synthetic courses.
In a perfect world, i’d like to see CDI put in its place. They have taken over the process of getting a horse to the be all, end all KD, relegating races once important in their own rights to just stepping stones to the main event. It will never happen, as partnerships are looking to breeding deals more than racing, but it would be great to see some major owners and trainers not play their game. Just an aging curmudgeon’s fantasy, but I would find it satisfying.
Todd, I’m so glad you said that! I was trying to stay neutral, but that new rule smacks of one more swipe at a certain white-haired trainer to me. It could also potentially create unforeseen circumstances where the winner of a Grade 1 stakes is No. 21 on the final list, for example. A lot of hoops for the owners and trainers to jump through.
Glad you said that, Todd! I posted a longer comment but it’s awaiting moderation.
Bobusually runs his #1 or #2 best in the Santa Anita Derby, and his three year olds are usually so much better—barns duck him, and look elsewhere….I have no problem with that rule….Small fields aren’t a “new” thing, where it comes to the top echelon of horses, Man O War and Citation were so good–they orflten faced small fields, Alysheba and Ferdinand ran in a 4-horse Big Cap….Spectacular Bid and Affirmed faced small fields, in their four year old season, they were “running for 2nd” vs those two!..
My feeling is that Derma Sotogake is better than Ushba Tesoro. I also think that Derma Sotogake’s run in the last Breeders Cup Classic might be the best we will ever see from him. I’m still open minded about Forever Young. But I hope they all come. I might get a decent price on the horse that I do like.
Actually how difficult is it for him to win sometimes running two in a five field?
Just curious, does anyone have stats on how many Justify progeny have raced beyong age 3?
There are 46 progeny of Justify of 4-year-old age that have run this year in USA. The total starts is 158 with 31 wins (20%), 29(18%) seconds and 21 show placings (13%) for a total bankroll of $2,121,000 ($13,424 per start).
Justify’s top ten 4-year-olds by earnings this year are:
Fancy, Champagne Juan, Better Bet, Justiable Belle, Harlocap, Aspen Grove (IRE), Alpha Belle, Just Katherine, Rosie’s Alibi and Elwood Blues.
There are more 4-year-olds by Justify foaled and running in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Europe and Canada but their numbers are not available to me at this time…
Thank you Nelson.
Just curious.
Heartland, a $575,000 acquisition by WinStar and China Horse Club has been retired to stand at WinStar for $10,000.
The colt raced one time in 2023 (broke his maiden), dropped off the radar the rest of the year then had a couple of works in early 2024.
No reason given for retirement.
Walden and Baffert posted a video in which they made a big to do about retiring him to stand at WinStar eventhough he raced only once and the importance of his pedigree (by Justify) in making that decision.
Just a lot of head scratching by many as to why.
Some individuals who follow horse racing more closely than I do think the Justify progeny are just not holding up or are inconsistent runners.
Perhaps it is an opportunity for smaller breeders who cannot afford Justify can get the next best thing by breeding to a son who looks very much like his sire is a thought many have.
I personally have no use for WinStar after the Laoban incident.
Thank you for answering.
Recently I read an interview with one of Mr Yoshida’s sons during which he spoke about differences between how the horses are managed in Japan versus the United States.
Kitasan Black, 20 starts, 12-2-4, raced at age 3, 4 and 5 and won over $13 million (in USD). Eventhough he has been Japan’s highest earnings winner he would never brought the $60 million that Justify sold for to Coolmore.
Per Mr Yoshida, the pressure is simply not on the owners of horses like Kitasan Black to retire at 3 to stud because the purses in Japan are so much higher than here in America.
Another reason is that the horses are kept at training centers or private training stables and only go to the race tracks on race day. As a rule they are healthier, happier than their American counterparts and can race beyond 3.
Many of the Japanese horses can also race and win at variable distances. Kitsan Black for example won at distances from 1200 to 3000 meters.
Another advantage as you have mentioned is that more time is spent behind the scenes before the start of the race to warm-up.
If your readers have not taken a virtual tour of the training centers I would highly suggest they do so.
There are multiple surfaces, inclines and have state of the art facilities for treatment, surgeries etc.
Housing is provided for grooms and other staff.
Trainers and jockeys both go through training programs for several years before they are issued licenses.
Recently I watched a video of a warmup before a training session. Roughly 50 horses were in a large area, in groups of 10 or so and within the groups the horses were in line and traveled at a jog in serpentines. Serpentines are relaxation exercises and result in control and suppleness.
Recently Mike Repole acquired horses from Japan, France, England, Ireland, South America and Australia and is said to be pursuing an owner’s license to race his horses in Japan.
Turf racing seems to be on the rise in the United States as evidenced by the successful meets at Colonial Downs and Kentucky Downs.
Change seems to be on the horizon for horse racing in the United States and I cannot help but think that it is a result of not only Japan but the trend towards more International racing.
Do not mean for this to sound cruel but racing in the United States can choose to evolve or be left behind.
Thanks for your enlightening comments Lynda.
I always wondered why, for instance, American 2-year-olds are less durable than the Japanese’s.
If you compare the respective campaigns of those (2yo) champions since 1999 to 2020 you will find the following Japanese tally (all over consecutive years and no geldings) : 3 ran til the age of 7, 7 ran till 6-year-old, 6 till 5-year-old, and 3 ran till their 4-year-old age. Only 2 could not extend their campaign as 4-year-olds due to injuries.
Contrail was champion 2-year-old, 3-year-old and champion older horse. The 8th undefeated Japanese Triple Crown champion was too valuable as a Sire and was retired after winning the 2021 Japan Cup.
The average starts of these Japanese 2yo champions is 21…
The last three Japanese 2yo champions (2021, 2022 and 2023) are still running this year.
As you may guess, during the same period only two American 2-yo champions could reach a 6-year-old campaign. One of them was a gelding (Declan’s Moon) and the other is Storm the Court who is still running this year. 16 were retired after their 3-year-old seasons.
The average starts of the American 2-yo champs is 10.
As you said, there is no incentive in America to keep a young champion running beyond their 3-year-old. The positive side of this is that the American breeding industry is still providing other countries with excellent stallions …
Thank you Nelson.
For me following and learning about Japan’s racing program is fascinating.
Japan takes a lot of pride, national pride, in everything they do. They are innovative, look to the future and strive to learn from mistakes or do better next time.
Over the years I had the honor and privilege of working with the Japanese in the food industry in my capacity in Research and Development.
Will Chad Brown remove the blinkers for Sierra Leone’s next start?
What does the colt have to lose given he has been defeated with the headgear in his last 3 starts?
Will Chad Brown revisit the Remsen and compare the TOF Sierra Leone displayed and compared it his subsequent races?
Wiil Chad Brown revisit the race record of Will Take Charge up to his start in the Jim Dandy?
Is Chad Brown aware the something needs to be changed?
Is Chad brown aware that something needs to change?
Sierra Leone runs good race after good race….WHY does he need to change? WHY can’t it be that Fierceness is just better? Or…a :48 half at ten furlongs just isn’t fast enough, for the big closer? I hear and read about “maybe they can keep him CLOSER to the pace, we’ll he is a deep closing animal, and he always runs his race…oh, ye of little faith—when Sierra wins the Classic….and pays $14……”EGBOK”! (Everything Gonna Be OK)……And before you start to label me. …I have bet ZERO, on Sierra Leone…..but I intend to change that fact on first Saturday in November!..
Matthew: This seems like the year for a mild shocker, and Sierra Leone has the goods to deliver. There is no obvious stand out now that Arthur’s Ride has shown vulnerability when pressed on the lead. As I have previously said, it’s a Cat Thief year.
A Cat Theif–Budroyale exacta, Bud being a full to Tiznow…
You would do cartwheels if owning this horse.
Steve has opened a chest of memories embroidered with the acronym (JPN).
I began paying attention to Japanese Thoroughbreds after Stay Gold defeated champion Fantastic Light in the 2001 Sheema Classic at Nad Al Sheba; it was one of the most memorable rides by legendary jockey Yutaka Take but the closing power of the Japanese horse to win by a nose was really exceptional. Then, in the Dubai World Cup 2.5 hours later another Japanese horse, the mare To The Victory, led over the first 9 furlongs before Captain Steve took command leaving her 3 lengths behind in second. It was another excellent work by the jockey/trainer combo of Yutaka Take and Yasuo Ikee. There were only three Japanese representatives in that 2001 Dubai World Cup festival (Regular Member was 9th in the DWC).
What caught my fancy was that both Stay Gold and To The Victory were sired by none other than Sunday Silence… I was so glad that the black stallion was proving to be an International success too.
The sale of Forty Niner to the Japan Racing Association for 10 million dollars was a big headline in 1995. So, it made me follow a Japanese colt by Forty Niner named Sunday Break being developed in the barn of triner Neil Drysdale. Sunday Break went on to finish a close third in the 2002 Wood Memorial prior to winning the Peter Pan Stakes as prep for his third in the Belmont Stakes.
Another Forty Niner foaled in Japan who came to America in 2007 was Utopia; Godolphin bought the miler in 2006 after an outstanding campaing that included four Group One wins in Japan and the Godolphin mile at Nad Al Sheba. Godolphin’s high expectations were justified when Utopia debuted winning the mile of the Westchester Handicap at Belmont Park in an outstanding time of 1:33 1/5. But Utopia was retired after a runner-up effort in the Stuyvesant Handicap at Aqueduct.
I don’t remember too many Sunday Silence progeny running in America. The only one I remember is Silent Name who participated in nine Grade 1 races during 2006 and 2007 taking two Grade 2 races, the Arcadia Handicap at Santa Anita and the Commonwealth Breeders’ Cup Stakes at Keeneland.
Also, 2006 was a prolific year for Japan and Sunday Silence elsewhere. Its international tally included Heart’s Cry winning the Sheema Classic in Dubai, the mare Dance in the Mood winning the Cash Call Mile in July at Hollywood Park, and perhaps more important was the first and second in the Melbourne Cup by Delta Blues and runner-up Pop Rock… the only important international victor that year not related to Sunday Silence was Cosmo Bulk the winner of the International Cup at Singapore.
Other Japanese with important hoofprints in America are Karakontie winner of the 2014 BC Mile and more recently Yoshida a Grade One winner on turf and dirt in 2018.
Steve has described all the main triumphs of Japan in Europe. I just wanted to add the record of the Nipons in Saudi Arabia and Dubai.
In the five years of the Saudi Cup Festival, Japan has won three Saudi Derbies, three Dirt Sprints, two Turf Sprints, one Turf Cup, two Turf Handicaps, and one Saudi Cup. In 2022 Japan took four of the six Stakes of the Saudi Cup card. Japan has won 40% of all the Stakes ran during the five years of the Saudi Cup Carnival.
In Dubai for instance, Japan has won the last three Dubai UAE Derbies, two of the last three Sheema Classics and a total of six Dubai Turf Stakes.
I don’t know how many Forever Youngs or Ushba Tesoros Japan has in store for the future but no one can deny that the land of the rising sun is getting closer to conquer the American Championship races on dirt.
Given the remarkable progress of the Japanese Thoroughbred industry you can say that Japan is also the land of the rising horses…
Excellent Nelson!
Thanks Lynda.
Very good for the Del Mar Futurity- Bob has about half the field, lol
I’m not thrilled that Rank is running, but I guess they’re thinking that they can always run him again in a MSW. I’d really rather they ship him to CD for a two turn MSW, but he is very talented – he’s considered their Derby horse
Like this horse alot.
Mike, I think he’s talented regardless of what happens on Sunday. He’s a big, kind of goofy colt, who’s bred to run long, so if it doesn’t work out in the Futurity, I still think he’ll be a good horse
Agreed! The horse has talent.
Betsy, they’re probably hoping Rank places in the Futurity so he can advance to the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Del Mar. It’s probably better walking out of the home stall than flying across counters with an inexperienced colt.
Fingers crossed.
David, yeah – I get it, and I never really thought shipping was an option.
If he runs well, when he’s not a sprinter, that will be a significant accomplishment.
That’s a good point about wanting to see if he’s good enough to be pointed to the BC
I wish Del Mar wasn’t so biased towards speed, but since it is, although he’s not a deep closer…I’d like to see him a bit closer to the pace
I’ll be thrilled if he runs well
Betsy, it’s just like Ferocious in the Hopeful Stakes just be happy with a good performance by Rank. Every inch of Rank, and Ferocious for that matter, indicate two turns not some early sprinter that is going to find a mile a big task.
You miss the days when colts like Seattle Slew who would win important 2 year old races then progress/develop into dominant 3 year olds. Now you have precocious types that win big early but are mostly forgotten once the Triple Crown races have been completed.
Oh yeah, well especially as he’s a maiden who’s lost to 2/3 BB colts already. It doesn’t mean he can’t do it now or down the line, but I think he needs more ground …But a stakes placing or a good run in a G1 would be immensely valuable
Funny, I still have by seen the Hopeful, but it sounds like Ferocious was much greener than in his debut…from what it sounds like, he was trying to come back.
All except Baffert horses, lol
It’s all about the breeding game. Show a drop of talent early, and you’ve got a stallion career
Betsy, Ferocious lost concentrate late in the Hopeful then realises too late that the race was still to be won, he passes the winner after the post. Ferocious will get it all together in the near future.
It’s very frustrating watching the Hopeful Stakes as Ferocious just throws away the win.
I’ll bet, lol. Fortunately there are other races beyond the Hopeful….should be a fun rematch !
Doug kept putting Irap in graded stakes races, as a maiden….won The Bluegrass, as a maiden!..
Doug trained Irap? Wow
Interestingly, I’ve been assuming all along that it was Calumet pushing to enter Rank since they have a history of this kind of thing
But Doug said he was their Derby horse, and then add in what he said to Brad Free in the DRF:
“He’s always acted like a special colt. We’re going to swing for the fences. He’s got a good race under his belt”
RE: G1 Del Mar Debutante, 7 furlongs, Saturday, September 7th.
Nooni, by Win Win Win, out of Unanimity, by Union Rags appears to stand head and shoulders above the rest of the field. In the event Nooni wins the Debutante, which seems likely, I would think Baffert will point her to the BC Juvenile Fillies.
On a side note, her name reminds of a #1 single song that came out in 1976, “Afternoon Delight”. Song by the Starlight Vocal Band, the first stanza goes as follows: “Gonna find my baby, gonna hold her tight. Gonna find some afternoon delight”.
Nooni seems to fit her makeup. 🙂
Bill Dawson:
Win Win Win, the sire of Nooni, has had quite a few progeny selling for big prices. His sire is the late Hat Trick, a son of Sunday Silence. And Win Win Win’s dam is Miss Smarty Pants, a daughter of Smarty Jones.
And Nooni’s dam sire is Union Rags.
That’s some regal pedigree: Sunday Silence and Smarty Jones won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. And Union Rags won the Belmont. The whole Triple Crown is covered.
The combination of Sunday Silence’s son with Smarty Jones’ daughter is quite the winning combination. Win Win Win stands at Ocala Stud for a very reasonable price.
And we will see how Sunday Silence’s progeny do at the Breeders Cup this year. It should be something special.
Hi Terri
Nooni sold for $1.8 Million at auction, so there were high expectations from the get-go. She could be something special.
I see some post below regarding City of Troy. A very nice colt. Is he as good as advertised or just the best of a modest crop?
City of Troy’s Epsom Derby winning time falls amongst slowest since 1984. Se below:
1984 – Secreto – 2:39.12
2002 – high Chaparral – 2:39.45
2013 – ruler of The World – 2:39.06
2016 – Harzand – 2:40.06
2013 – City of Troy – 2:38.32
Fastest Epsom Derby winning time since 1984:
2010 -Workforce – 2:31.33 – Course Record
Notables:
1995 – Lammtrra – 2:32.31 – Previous Course record
2015 – Golden Horn – 2;32.32
Obviously track conditions contributes to final times. Did COT win on the 5th most demanding surface in the last 40 years of the Epsom Deby?
Counter Point, I wouldn’t be worrying too much about times for the Epsom Derby. Sea-Bird, whom most respected opinions still regard as the best racehorse ever, won the Epsom Derby in 2.38.41.
What is concerning Aidan O’Brien with City of Troy is his ability to get out of the gate fast enough. As you would know, many US races are won or lost on the ability of a horse to rocket itself out of the gate.
Nonetheless, you may be right ‘the best of a modest crop’ on both sides of the Atlantic. However, if City of Troy can adapt to the US stampede style of racing he won’t have much trouble giving Coolmore their first Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Good post, you always provide an alternative voice/opinion.
Hey Counter Point, (AKA, Coldfacts)
I would refer you to City of Troy’s most recent race, the Group 1 Juddmonte International Stakes, when he broke See the Stars record by a full second.
He’s most likely headed to the BC Classic, or the BC Turf is another option.
Give a little credit, where credit is due.
Have a nice day Counter Point.
An excellent column on a subject I knew almost nothing about. I appreciated your mention of Chateaugay, my all-time favorite horse. When he was sold to Japan in 1971, he might as well have dropped off the edge of the earth. I never heard any more about him, and it wasn’t until I got my first computer in 2011 that I learned that he lived to be 25 and sired a Japanese juvenile champion. How times have changed!
Jiffy, you should have read “The Australian” newspaper on Monday. Ha ha but seriously. Journalist Tony Arrold used to have a 4 page lift out spread titled “Thoroughbreds”. I tossed the rest of the paper away but Arrold’s column was gold. He covered all the racing nations major Group/Graded races and breeding news including Japan.
I’ve been reading Arrold since 1979 until he retired in July, 2020. He bemoaned the decline of staying power in Australian thoroughbreds due to the prominence of the Golden Slipper, Blue Diamond stakes et al for two year olds and the sprint distances.
He adored Northern Dancer stock and its influence around the world especially in Japan with Northern Taste. I think you would have enjoyed him, Jiffy. Very passionate writer.
Too many of the passionate writers about thoroughbreds are no longer with us or no longer writing. We still have Steve, thank Heaven, but I was a big fan of Jack Mann and Ray Kerrison, and even after many years I still miss them.
Yes, Jiffy, that is so true. If you don’t already the website: Thoroughbred Racing Commentary often have interesting articles that are beyond the next stakes races.
“Taking a peak into the daily routine of ‘the incredible Tapit” – by Michele MacDonald is a great read with wonderful photographs. If you want to delve deep into thoroughbred breeding/pedigrees search for articles or books by Tony Morris. Morris has a wealth of knowledge.
Thank you. I’ll remember those names.
Jiffy, there is a huge back catalogue you now have at your fingertips to enjoy. Enjoy.
Thank you Steve for the in depth history of Japanese horse racing. I thoroughly enjoyed reading every word!
I have the utmost respect and admiration for Japanese horse racing and look forward to the return of Forever Young in the BCC.
Mr Yoshida traveled the world for broodmare prospects for Northern Taste including England, Canada, France and South America thus the damsire list reads like a Who’s Who in Thoroughbred breeding including several mares sired by Secretariat. Probably explains why Japan still leads all other countries in the diversity of Thoroughbred bloodlines.
Unfortunately Northern Taste did not leave a colt who could carry on his legacy. In some ways his time as sire is similar to Secretariat because he too was a broodmare sir and his daughters became the foundation for his breeding program that is still strong today.
It is sad that Mr Zenya Yoshida, who passed away when Sunday Silence’s first crop were yearlings, did not live see the force Japan is today.
He said that acquiring Sunday Silence was the luckiest moment in his life.
I guess one could say Mr Yoshida had several “luckiest moments”, Northern Taste, Sunday Silence and sons who are carrying on their Father’s legacy.
Wonderful post, Lynda — and a nice addenda to Steve’s post.
Thank you
Thanks Lynda King for your very informative post.
The late Mr. Zenya Yoshida was very astute in acquiring horses with not only wonderful pedigrees but with “heart” or the will to win; I believe he created his own “luck”.
Sunday Silence was rejected by breeders in the US due to his issues with conformation. But Mr. Yoshida was aware that conformation did not alone make the horse. Sunday Silence was a fighter and survived an accident and an illness that would have taken any other horse.
The Japanese made another brilliant acquisition by privately acquiring Caravaggio from Coolmore recently.
RE: BC Classic
Current Rankings.
1) Fierceness
2) City of Troy
3) Forever Young
4) Sierra Leone
5) Dornoch
6) Highland Falls
7) Arthur’s Ride
8) Ushba Tesoro
9) Derma Sotogake
10) Senor Buscador
Steve, this article is fascinating and I love it. My grandparents met in occupied Japan after WWII ended, so without Japan… no me! I always follow their runners with great interest when they come over.
I love Forever Young, and cannot wait to see him back. I agree with Eric R about his Derby.
Sunday Silence was MY version of The Black Stallion. I had a black pony 1988-90ish, and I’d gallop her flat-out while pretending to be Pat Valenzuela. (D.A.R.E. was a failure with me – I also idolized Darryl Strawberry and Doc Gooden, and many comedians!)
I always felt vindicated that Sunday Silence became a true breed changer in Japan. I read (maybe in an article by you) that he was so popular in Japan, that they sold Sunday Silence hats that were just black ball caps with the shape of his star-stripe in white on the front. Everyone knew what that was, like a Nike swoosh. He would never have been THAT horse in the US.
Thanks for filling in the gaps on the island nation that may be the real future of our beloved sport and breed!
Great stuff, Katy. Thank you for sharing.
Great article Steve.
I have followed the racing in Japan as long as the internet has allowed.
The horse bettors have caught on as the payouts have fallen in my late night forays int the Japan races.
In my opinion, Forever Young was the best horse the first Saturday in May. This is with no disrespect for the deserving winner, Mystic Dan, but If Forever Young was not interfered with he wins.
I look forward to their continued presence on the World stage.
Looked for you at the Spa this weekend but to no avail. Track Jack did too.
All the best,
Eric
Thanks. We didnt go. Our friends who we stay with had to leave Friday for a wedding.
I heard Nysos is back galloping…no works yet….Tamara is back, has worked twice–two furlong works, for Mandella…..perhaps an epic La Brea? Thorpedo Anna, Ways and Means, Tamara? ..
Matthew, have you heard anything about Maymun at all? I check Equibase every week to no avail.
Not a thing….I still haven’t heard what was wrong with Nysos….it’s why I’m not at all sure about Adare Manor tying up….
Thanks Matthew, the scratching of Adare Manor worried me as well. All you can do is hope for the best.
Please follow up this week’s column on the Japanese contingent with the one horse who will upset the whole apple cart, City of Troy. O’ Brien seems to indicate that Troy is as good if not better than Giant’s Causeway.
I just watched the video replay of City of Troy going gate to wire in the Group 1 Juddmonte International Stakes, in record time. I would think the BC Turf is in the cards. Or why not take a shot in the BC Classic?
Stay tuned for that decision.
City of Troy is going to be tested on Southwell Racecourse’s Tapeta track on September 20 with a handful of other horses using American style starting stalls in an attempt to simulate US racing conditions during a public workout.
Aidan O’Brien used the same tactics with Giant’s Causway in preparation for the Breeder’ Cup as he did with Galileo. Unless City of Troy is a flop on the Tapeta that is to be City of Troy’s preparation for the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Yes, Davids, I understand the plan right now is The Classic….
Yes, Matthew, O’Brien/Coolmore have been quite transparent that they would be attempting the Breeders’ Cup Classic with City of Troy ever since he won the Epsom Derby and had failed in the English 2,000 Guineas.
The Travers Stakes was in play for a brief period but then they decided to go for the Juddmonte International Stakes at York instead. Should City of Troy win the Breeders’ Cup Classic Coolmore can ‘justify’, ha ha, a massive increase in Justify’s stud and ask anything for City of Troy’s initial stud fee.
If COT wins the BCC it will more than likely be his last race. Coolmore will wisk him off to stud quicker than you can snap your fingers.
Lynda, Aidan O’Brien more or less said same in the Racing Post the other day. In Europe, the three year olds compete with older horses, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes et al, quite early with the Arc the main event. Then on most occasions off to stud if they have been successful.
Frankel was an exception to the rule because many believed keeping Frankel on the track helped the adored Sir Henry Cecil to fight on with purpose which he did.
I wonder if they would consider shipping earlier if the Tapeta experiment goes well. Since Steve wrote about the Japanese this week, it made me think that Coolmore should take a page from their book. Forever Young was here for quite a while training on the Churchill track for the Derby, and that darn near paid off.
What does City of Troy get out of staying and training there vs coming early, getting the travel out of the way, and training on the track he would race on? Matthew W has reminded us several times recently that Del Mar’s dirt track is unique, tiring, and changeable. Tapeta may or may not be an adequate sim. They might even find him a prep race, although I haven’t looked at the schedule. They can really see if he can go on the dirt, and if not, they can stick with the turf.
With O’Brien overseeing that big operation, the only worry I see is that he can’t be everywhere at once and might not want his star pupil away from him.
One other thought: Auguste Rodin’s up-down season may have derailed their ideas about trying the Classic with him, but I recall them being very excited about how he trained on the Del Mar dirt. I wonder if that door is still open?
Katy, it does not seem to be Aiden’s training style to bring the horses over early.
He did admit that he did not give Mendelssohn the prep he needed before his Derby.
I do agree with you though that COT would benefit from time here in training or a prep race before the BCC.
Katy, they almost won the Breeders’ Cup Classic with Giant’s Causeway and that’s the formula they are following with City of Troy.
Also….Japan has done very well running right off the plane, with Cesario…and those Breeders Cup Del Mar races, I’ve noticed after a while the horses can and sometimes do go a bit off form, as if they acclimate to the different time zone…
Yes, Matthew, good points. Take the Coolmore production line, they live in the lap of luxury at home and will only be having a brief experience at three star accommodations in the US before returning to the Ritz=Carlton.
Having to stay longer at the Winners Circle Resort than a brief encounter may be quite negative to these pampered equines of Coolmore. Ha ha
RE: G1 Del Mar Futurity (7 furlongs), Sept. 8th.
The probable entries for referenced race are as follows.
Getaway Car
Citizen Bull
Mischief River
Artislas
Brother Tony
Gaming
McKinzie Street
Pali Kitten
Rank
Smash It
Getaway Car and Mckinzie Street appear to be the top colts, I’m leaning to Getaway Car as the likely winner.
Bill I was impressed with Citizen Bull, who is built like a bull…and that’s no bull!…
Hey Matthew
Yes, I was impressed with Citizen Bull’s first out maiden win as well.
Another Baffert speed merchant, going 5 1/2 furlongs, in 1:03.42, earning an excellent Equibase Speed Figure of 94.
How about boxing Getaway Car, McKinzie Street and Citizen Bull in a fairly large trifecta? That might work.
Many of his speed horses end up out for many months.
I find it hard to believe Rank is going to run….and as a huge fan of his, I hope he doesn’t. Calumet loves to run maidens in stakes, but this colt is a router, not a sprinter
There’s nothing for him in CA now – I really hope Doug ships him to KY
Where did you read that Rank is probable?
Betsy
HRN has Rank listed as a “probable” in the Del Mar Futurity.
Thanks, Bill. I tweeted Ron Flatter to ask if Doug actually said that – I’m hoping not, and that they ship the colt to CD instead
Betsy Rank is a looker! I wish they would not push him into stakes ranks, not against Bob’s Brigade—give him a chance! He’s bred fir two turn success, he didn’t fetch big money, Calumet got him for $80K…I wonder if it’s because of the four white feet—(a longtime friend/horse breeder didn’t like white feet, he called white a “flaw”..)…but those feer, and his dark coat and long frame make for a unique look, when He’s running—I like him!..
Betsy and Matthew, all you can do is hope that Rank doesn’t get discouraged while the precious 2 year olds skip around.
Yes, the 4 white stockings does discourage some.But let’s be positive.
They should name a horse Skilled Falcon
Steve…Just last week–when I met up with two friends, watching six trials races and the Gr1 Go Man Go Hcp—we three were conversing about things, we got to talking about cars, and I said my Toyota Sienna was terrific—we shared a laugh, about when we were all youngsters, in the early ’60s, and the term “Made in Japan” meant something cheap—my brother once said Japan HAS to build better cars, they haven’t natural resources to sell, or crops….their product has to be better, as a matter of national importance—not only their cars are great—Japan steel is top of the line, as well….”made in Japan”, is no longer an insult its a phrase of pride….another thing I admire, about the Land of the Rising Sun: They have a national sense of honor, based in dignity….a friend lost his wallet fill of cash and travelers checks on the Tokyo subway, and he notified the authorities….they told him it would be returned—and it was, INTACT! There’s public virtue….
Matthew, something I found out this morning. Houses in Japan depreciate in value, there are hundreds of thousands of houses dotted around Japan left vacant because Japan is a dying population and the houses aren’t worth very much.
I remember when parts of Tokyo real estate were the most expensive real estate per square foot. People lived in tiny little rooms that contained bedroom, shower, kitchen, lounge toilet etc all in one.
Birthrates have plummeted in many countries…Sociology is a fascinating sublect…Change is always just around the corner…
Yes, Matthew, it’s the TOURISTS who are taking over the planet, at least in destination spots like Rome and Amsterdam. Not sure many racetracks are high on the list for selfies, fortunately.
Matthew, I studied a couple of Human Geography Units at uni and found the discipline fascinating. I might do some more units on retirement and become a consultant. Ha ha
The top 11 countries with the highest percentages of populations that are aging out include China, India, United States, Japan, Russian Federation, Brazil, Indonesia, Italy, France and United Kingdom.
The birth and fertility rates in these same countries are also dropping.
There are differences between the United States and other countries such as Japan, Italy, China and Italy and among the Cherokee in how the aging population is being treated. The elderly are treated with much more respect, their knowledge and life experiences are held in the highest regard.
When I was growing up each family had either a matriarch (in the case of my Dad’ s family) or a patriarch. What my Dad’s oldest sister said was “gospel”, LOL.
In general horse racing is considered to be a dying sport in the United States in part because of the aging populations. That is not the case in Japan. Younger Japanese are encouraged to develop an interest in horse racing. There festivals in the parks where children can meet and greet their favorite racehorse and the plushies of the top race horses are in high demand.
Race replays using the plushies are posted on X and are just adorable (in my opinion).
If you want something to be successful, it has to be nurtured and Japan is excelling in doing just that. Something that most American tracks, owners, breeders and trainers just do not have an interest in. It’s become a “take the money and run” attitude.
Americans = poker. The rest of the developed world = chess.
You think it’s dying?….Horse Racing here has always been fueled by the gambling dollar…Used to be the only legal way to gamble….Crowds mobbed the sport…..Times have changed, Gambling has changed….More options, less interest in Horse Racing….Hirse Racing is certainly dying in California, but that’s mostly because of zero political backing—those Hirse Racing Game slots drum up astronomical revenue, on Kentucky and Arkansas, they would do the same in California IF the state would allow it—the state will not allow it….But where horse Racing thrives—where do they look, for sire prospects? Good Ole dying USA….
“Hirse” Racing, indeed! Am unintended error, in phone posting….
Matthew, it was such a pity “Luck” the TV Show centered around horse racing was shelved. The story was just starting to get very interesting.
Loved Luck! What could have been….The best show about Horse Racing, it captured many different angles, of the most diverse sport! I used to play the ponies, at a tiny bowling alley off of I-5 in Albany, Oregon…such a diverse crowd! Horse owners, exercise riders…recovering (from injury).jockeys….college professors….mill workers….a horseman I met there told me everyone in Racing was tied onto the horse, everything in Racing was a gamble….a traveling circus, made up of people from all places, of society–with a shared affinity of the magnificent horse….
Matthew, you perfectly summed up what most people enjoy about racing – the horse + interaction with a wide section of society. Moreover, those who like to test themselves against others and themselves.
Sometimes you’re a genius but most often a fool. Ha ha The excitement of watching something as beautiful as Flightline in motion is pure ecstasy.
Steve, it was so enjoyable reading your historical retrospective on the rise and rise of the Japanese thoroughbred. I’ve been following with interest on how the Japanese thoroughbred has advanced, especially with the Australian thoroughbred. The former has concentrated on the Classic type thoroughbred while the later on sprinters.
Both countries could argue to have reached the pinnacle of both distances. Japan’s Equinox topped the Timeform ratings in 2023 above the undefeated and Arc winner
Ace Impact – that is a statement unparalleled. While Australia beats any European sprinter who dares to take them on at home in Australia. Moreover, the Australian sprinters regularly compete at Royal Ascot with great success.
It’s unfortunate that Australia has it’s own lucrative Victorian Spring Racing Carnival and the Sidney Spring Racing Carnival running parallel with the Breeders’ Cup races/preps otherwise the competition in the latter would be more representative of the ‘World Championship of Racing’. No doubt everyone has seen the Aushorse ads where they compare the number of million Dollar races to the rest of world. From memory Australia has around 72 or so million dollar races compared to 49 in the US, 19 in Europe.
Anyway, a wonderful article Steve, to the build-up of the Breeders’ Cup races. Japan is also attempting to take the Arc with Shin Emperor. What a coup if they achieve that an Arc + Breeders’ Cup Classic in the same year.
Steve,
Once again with an article like this … this is why we love you!!! The only thing I really knew about Japanese racing before this year was Sunday Silence and the Japan Cup. I remember when Sunday Silence went to Japan he didn’t have that fashionable pedigree but who knew he would turn out to be Northern Dancer, Seattle Slew and Alydar rolled into one. Just a great, great article. A tip of the hat to you!!! You are so appreciated!!!
Down, visited Hat Trick several years ago at Gainsway. Disgrace he wasn’t allowed to live out his days there.
Thank you very much. I appreciate it
Steve, this was a fascinating read. Thank you! I’m a big Forever Young fan and would love to see him do well in the Classic.
Wonderful perspective piece on the emergence of what could be a new world dominance in racing, Steve. As many have said in comments in posts since 2021, the Japanese are very serious about their breeding programs and are looking at the long game — something few American breeders appear to think about any more. Before the 1960s, Japanese breeders made do with very limited imported breeding stock for their racers, and yet they built highly successful programs. I keep coming across pedigrees loaded with international stakes winners where European horses were imported into Japan as breeding stock as early as 1900. I’ve now stopped laughing at names like “Nihon Pillow Winner” (champion sprinter three years running) and grown to respect the amazingly savvy breeders who produce and respect these fast and enduring horses. Japanese-breds could be the horses that save the fragile, easily broken American thoroughbred if we’re lucky enough to import some of them ourselves.
Neglected to mention that three-time Japanese sprint champion Nihon Pillow Winner is a direct tail-female descendant of Florrie’s Cup, bred in England and imported into Japan in 1907.
Just for you Ms Blacktype, Storm Boy returned in devastating fashion at Rosehill on Saturday in the San Domenico Stakes. Have you seen the film yet?
Just watched it on your advice. Most impressive horse, as is his $50M stud deal.
Ms Blacktype, Australia , Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and no doubt China soon seem to be expanding in racing while Europe and the USA are retracting.
The yearling sales, stud fees in Australia are almost on parallel with the US and Europe with far more million dollar race to obtain a quick ROI.
All this without needing or involved in the Breeders’ Cup races which is quite an achievement.
From a historical perspective, it makes sense to me. Racing established itself in England and the continent during a long arc from the late 18th century well into the 19th, caught on in the U.S. and Canada starting in the last half of the 19th century, reached its peak in the mid-20th, and exploded in Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, and other parts of the world in the last 50 years or so.
Ms Blacktype, you are a bit confused about Australian horse racing. The first racing club in Australia was established in 1852. The first Melbourne Cup was won by Archer in 1861 some 14 years prior to the first Kentucky Derby in 1875.
There is a pictorial history of Australian racing called “Timeline” on the Australian Turf Club website you should visit. It starts with an 1810 painting of Sydney racing and continues to the present showing massive crowds at the racecourses in Sydney from its inception.
For the history of Melbourne horse racing, the website tomelbourne dot com dot au has a brief history “Melbourne Cup and Melbourne’s history of horse racing” you may wish to read. Melbourne Horse racing started around 1838.
Australians have been infatuated with horse racing since the first fleet arrived in 1788 on board was a stallion, a filly, a yearling, and 4 mares.
Ms B, that is an excellent article that can be found on line in the The Smithsonian Magazine from 2004 titled Off To The Races that you and others might enjoy about the history of horse racing in the United States.
Mr. Haskin, thought provoking as always. Thanks!