In America, the equestrian industry is no mere hobby; it’s an economic powerhouse. Per a comprehensive study by the American Horse Council Foundation, the equine sector contributes a staggering $39 billion in direct economic impact to the U.S. economy. Beyond the figures, it sustains 1.4 million jobs on a full-time basis. And when you factor in indirect and induced spending, the industry’s economic impact soars to a monumental $102 billion.

Now, imagine the ripple effect of this sport’s fervor. Inspired by America’s prowess, Japan has stepped into the spotlight, ready to carve its own mark in the world of Grade Races. With 24 Grade 1 races, 35 Grade 2 races, and 63 Grade 3 races in Japan in 2022, these events are not only thrilling spectacles but also integral to the racing calendar. The Japan Cup, the Japanese Derby, the Tenno Sho, the Yasuda Kinen, and the NHK Mile Cup are just a few names that resonate with racing enthusiasts.

Grade 3 equestrian races return after a summer break

In Japan, these races are hailed as “Jyūshō” or big races, and they’re categorized into Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 races by the Japan Racing Association based on their quality and prestige. On September 9, racing will resume at the busy tracks in Japan, including Nakayama near Tokyo and Hanshin near Osaka. On September 10th, the Keisei Hai Autumn Handicap (G3), a thrilling 1,600-meter (roughly one mile) turf race for 3-year-olds and up, will take place at Nakayama. This race has racing fans buzzing. Industria stands out among the competitors as the clear favorite. The track horse is a 4-year-old colt who won the Lord Derby Challenge Trophy (G3) over the same course and distance in April,

According to Blood Horse, Dolce More is a 3-year-old colt who took first place in the Asahi Hai Futurity (G1) in December. It will run on September 10th at the Centaur Stakes (G3). This sprint, at 1,200 meters (approximately six furlongs) on turf, presents an electrifying challenge for 3-year-olds and up. As the leaves change, star horses align their sights on autumn glory.

The horses ready to make a mark

Equinox, the reigning Horse of the Year, has spent the summer at the Tenei Branch of Northern Farm. It diligently prepared for the Japan Cup (G1) set to thrill fans in Tokyo on November 26th. On a parallel track, Do Deuce, the victor over Equinox in the 2022 Japanese Derby (G1), is gearing up for the Tenno Sho Autumn (G1) in Tokyo on October 29th.

It’s anticipated that Do Deuce will cross paths with Stars On Earth, the remarkable winner of the 2022 Japanese Oaks (G1), in a showdown of epic proportions. And the drama continues with Liberty Island, who triumphed in both the Oka Sho (G1) and Yushun Himba (G1) this spring. She’s now charting a course straight to the Shuka Sho (G1) in Kyoto on October 15th. There, she’ll attempt to etch her name in history by completing the Triple Tiara for 3-year-old fillies.

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The return of racing to Nakayama and Hanshin speaks of renewal, fresh challenges, and fiery competition. With star horses like Industria, Dolce More, Equinox, Do Deuce, Stars On Earth, and Liberty Island gearing up for their autumn quests, the racing world can hardly contain its excitement.

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