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A former JRA representative explains, “Anyone in Japan and read a sports section, the top three activities come up. One is baseball, one is sumo wrestling, and the final one is the sport of kings. We are always exposed to racing, and thoroughbreds are beautiful animals. It’s full of excitement and allure, and a challenge to the Arc because we’ve been trying to win for more than 50 years. This is the reason the nation are so attached.”

Annual Pilgrimage

Countless enthusiasts from Japan making the 12,000-mile round trip and millions more watching from Japan, it is that time as usual. Ever since the first entrant, the initial representative in Europe’s premier race, came in 11th in 1969, another 32 attempted without success. At Longchamp, another trio – Byzantine Dream, Alohi Alii and Croix Du Nord – will make the attempt.

A prime instance of persistence amid painful and often bitter experience, it’s nearly unmatched globally. British followers might complain over decades of disappointment, but the national team does at least have a major trophy. Since the 1990s, Japan’s racing industry has developed as the richest and most successful in the world. All it has to show for the trillions of yen and extensive travel are numerous of painful near-misses.

Bitter Defeats

• El Condor Pasa came up just short against Montjeu while in front near the finish.
• Deep Impact, who drew tens of thousands, nearly triumphed that year though subsequently disqualified for banned medication.
• The 2010 entry was just a head behind the victor.
• Orfevre took command a furlong out then drifted and was chased down by Solemia.

Bad ground along with ill fortune, with the draw and in the race, have both played a part in the string of losses. Runners used to firm turf domestically come unstuck in softer conditions that generally prevails at Longchamp in early October. An expert perspective believes it’s also an evolving strategy. “As a horse owner taking a classic race, the natural conclusion is: ‘We can conquer Europe,’ but sometimes it’s not the case since it appears comparable, but it’s a totally different game.

“Domestic tracks tend to be uniform and local thoroughbreds bred to be sprint specialists, overseas, more versatile athletes, since the ground looks green and smooth yet underfoot, the going varies. This is why trainers and owners have adapted their approach to prepare runners which both run on smooth ground and maybe have an element of SUV.

This Year's Hopefuls

Notably the latest entrants for this year’s Arc have all had what could be described as European training regimen: an extended midsummer break followed by a prep race. This isn’t the most numerous group previously entered overseas – a quartet two years ago placed apart further back – yet they possess an unusual sense of strength in depth.

Is success imminent for the devoted supporters receive their due after years of loyalty to their equine heroes.

“Basically, gambling is prohibited across the country with just four authorized betting sports, including horse racing,” Kusano says. “However, the JRA has done a very good job to reshape perceptions from purely a betting sport into a broader entertainment that everyone can enjoy, and bonding people with the sport uniquely internationally.

“For local supporters, with elite runners entering, supporters make the trip, to feel part of the drama. We’ve won in Hong Kong and Dubai across various venues where conditions align, the Arc remains the elusive prize for a long time.”