Ireland, Britain, and Japan Enhance Racing Collaboration
These nations collaborate to develop racing initiatives and practices.
Although European fans have yet to witness the world's top racer, Equinox, on their turf, the likelihood of future Japanese equine stars competing in Europe and more British and Irish horses racing in Japan has received a significant boost.
The Japan Racing Association, the British Horseracing Authority, Horse Racing Ireland, Racecourse Media Group, and significant tracks like Ascot, Goodwood, York, and Leopardstown have established a cooperative committee. This committee aims to develop initiatives and practices to benefit horse racing globally.
Renowned for their success with champions sired by the Japanese stallion Deep Impact, like Saxon Warrior and this year's Derby (G1) winner Auguste Rodin, Coolmore has been a notable contributor to this international racing synergy.
"Horse racing's passion and expertise in Japan, from fans to the racing and bloodstock sectors, are unparalleled," stated O'Brien. "Their growing international presence and achievements have spurred further interest and investment.
Aidan O'Brien amid racing enthusiasts:
"This collaborative initiative is a brilliant move to strengthen connections between the Japanese, Irish, and British racing industries."JRA's chief executive, Masayoshi Yoshida, expressed delight in joining Britain and Ireland's historic and innovative racing organizations to form this joint committee.
"This is a pivotal and meaningful advancement for the JRA and Japanese horse racing," Yoshida said. "We're committed to working closely to foster development across all aspects. I'm excited about our collaborative efforts to shape the future of horse racing."
Chaired by BHA's Joe Saumarez Smith, the committee will focus on encouraging the exchange of top horses between jurisdictions, addressing regulatory issues, and promoting the sport to enthusiasts and the betting community.
Saumarez Smith remarked, "Establishing this committee marks a new chapter in our relationship as we share expertise and merge our extensive marketing and media resources.
"This collaboration will increase participation in each other's races, enhancing fan involvement and opening new revenue opportunities."
Japanese participation in major European races has increased, thanks to active recruitment by leading tracks. Notably, the 2022 Dubai Sheema Classic (G1) winner Shahryar was among two Japanese contenders at Royal Ascot, while trainer Yoshito Yahagi brought Bathrat Leon to the Sussex Stakes (G1) and King Hermes to the July Cup (G1).
The most recent Japanese triumph in Britain or Ireland was achieved by Mitsuru Hashida's Deirdre, winning the 2019 Nassau Stakes (G1) at Goodwood and placing in both the Irish and British Champion Stakes (G1).
Recent European challengers for the Japan Cup (G1) have mainly been from France and Germany. Still, last year, Jessica Harrington made history as the first foreign trainer in over a decade to enter a horse, Magical Lagoon, in the Queen Elizabeth II Cup (G1).