Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2011

For most of us living in Japan, horse racing probably isn’t at the top of the list of things to do, but for a lucky few on Sunday, they quickly discovered what an incredible facility for horse racing exists just on the outskirts of western Tokyo.

Winners of Tokyo Inter Fm’s “The Day at the Races” contest were given the royal treatment at JRA’s Tokyo Racecourse in Fuchu. With a stunning view of Mt. Fuji to the West, the facility is also surrounded by greenery—with plenty of grassy areas inside the complex to enjoy with friends and family. For the lucky winners, it was the VIP treatment in the sky lounge and a chance to take part in the action! Directly below, the massive “Turf Vision,” once recognized as the world’s largest TV screen, displayed sharp, powerful images that kept the crowd in the thick of the action throughout the day.

We got in on the action during the sixth race.The horses jumped out of the gate and jockeyed for position down the backstretches. When they galloped around the final turn and went headlong into the homestretch, everyone’s adrenaline began to race as they waved their betting stubs, jumped, shouted and cheered for their horse to win. In the end, it was lucky No. 7, “Dream the Next,” who took the stakes.

The science of picking a winning horse can be complex, but some prefer just enjoying the day and taking a chance on a runner. Even if it isn’t your pick at the line it’s always a thrilling finish—especially when one race is won by the nose! Pandemonium broke out when one member of the group came out with the winning ticket.

As if they hadn’t seen enough excitement, the group also witnessed an historic Triple Crown winner on “Turf Vision” via a simulcast from Kyoto. Orfevre became only the seventh horse in Japan horse racing history to achieve such a feat.
The day proved to be fun for all—win or lose.

If you want to be a VIP winner, enter to win the next “The Day At The Races” scheduled for December 17 at Nakayama Racecourse in Chiba.

Email to win: horse@interfm.jp

“With the brisk days of late November and annual festivities just around the corner comes the excitement of the Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse. In this event, “foreign raiders” swoop in by special invite at month’s end to throw down the gauntlet—and a wrench into racing predictions.

“The world’s best horses, jockeys, and trainers help fill the air with a festive and colorful international flavor—but they’re not here to party. They’re here for serious business and serious money. They’re here for the biggest purse in Japanese racing: ¥250 million for the winner alone!

“The Japan Cup has always been seen as rather unpredictable, but now in its third decade, it is even more so, as the gap between racing nations closes. Past victories and boasting gets set aside, as anything can happen—and often does. Even the experienced bettors throw up their hands and take their chances at the betting windows. This is the biggest horse racing party of the season where anybody can win, and beginners are most welcome!”

JRA Sound of Thoroughbred

This English-language radio program featuring horseracing, or keiba, brings you live coverage of some of the highest profile races of JRA, and lots of music. The next live coverage is the Japan Cup at Tokyo Racecourse, broadcast from 3pm on November 27, hosted by InterFm on-air personality DJ Guy Perryman.

The Japan Cup started as a way to test the highest tier JRA horses by having them challenge the best horses in the world. This year, Japan’s local horses will compete against a top field of foreign-trained horses to compete in the exciting Japan Cup races.

Designed for beginners, fans and experienced foreigners alike to showcase the exciting world of horseracing, JRA’s “The Day At The Races” is fun for all members of the family. With the help of easy guidelines and information, you can enjoy a full day of keiba fun and excitement!

For questions and details about keiba, feel free to contact them at horse@interfm.jp

Access

Take the Keio line from Shinjuku station to Higashi-Fuchu and transfer to the Keio Keibajo line, getting off at Fuchu Keiba Seimon-mae station.

http://japanracing.jp/en