Horse Racing Odds: Breeders Cup Japanese Contenders

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Horse Racing Odds for Breeders’ Cup 2024:

How Japan’s Top Contenders Are Shaping the Future of the Race

As the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar approaches on November 1-2, Japan is expected to send a strong contingent, aiming to build on past successes. Japanese horses have a mixed record at the Breeders’ Cup, with a 2-for-29 overall win rate. 

However, these statistics mask an underlying trend of improved performance over time. In particular, trainer Yoshito Yahagi’s success at the 2021 Breeders’ Cup, where he secured two wins at Del Mar, indicates a promising outlook as the event returns to the same venue.

Japan’s Rising Stakes

Yoshito Yahagi plans to enter his three-year-old star, Forever Young, in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1). Forever Young, who finished third in the Kentucky Derby (G1), has already demonstrated his capabilities in U.S. conditions, making him a key contender and a Saratoga betting favorite. 

This entry follows Derma Sotogake’s impressive performance in the 2023 Classic, where he finished second, marking Japan’s best result in the race to date.

Japan’s previous attempts in the Breeders’ Cup Classic between 1996 and 2010 were less successful, with horses finishing far down the field. However, Japan’s continuous breeding, training, and dirt racing improvements have positioned their horses as severe threats in the global racing scene. 

This year, alongside Forever Young, Japan’s representatives could include returning challengers like Derma Sotogake and Ushba Tesoro, who competed in the Classic last year.

Building on Past Success

Marche Lorraine’s shocking victory at nearly 50-1 horse racing odds in the 2021 Breeders’ Cup Distaff remains a highlight for Japan. This win signaled Japan’s growing strength in international dirt races. Marche Lorraine’s success, coupled with the meticulous preparation by Japanese trainers, showcases the potential for future victories in the Distaff category.

This year, Japan’s hopes in the Distaff rest on Awesome Result, who, like Marche Lorraine, prepped for the Breeders’ Cup with a win in the Breeders’ Gold Cup at Mombetsu. Trainer Yasutoshi Ikee, returning for his second Breeders’ Cup appearance, will aim to replicate Yahagi’s success.

Limited Yet Promising Entries

Japan’s presence in the Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1) has been limited, with only two runners and not great offtrack betting odds. Trailblazer, who finished fourth in 2012, was the first, and Shahryar, who placed third in 2023, demonstrated that Japanese horses can be competitive on the U.S. turf. 

The reluctance to send more horses for this race stems from the rich prize money available in Japan during the fall, making the journey to the U.S. a significant decision.

Shahryar, a top contender again this year, exemplifies Japan’s world-class capabilities in turf racing. His strong performance last year suggests that Japanese turf horses are well-suited to U.S. conditions, particularly at classic distances.

Filly & Mare Turf: Continuing the Momentum

The Filly & Mare Turf has seen more Japanese entrants than the Turf, with five horses competing historically. The most notable victory came from Loves Only You in 2021, who delivered an outstanding performance at Del Mar. This win solidified Japan’s reputation in international turf races, particularly for older females.

Japan’s participation in this category is likely to grow, especially with the proven success of their Grade 1-winning mares in international competitions.

Dirt Races: A Growing Ambition

Japan’s ambition in dirt races has been spearheaded by trainers like Hideyuki Mori, who has had more Breeders’ Cup starters than any other Japanese trainer. While his attempts in races like the Dirt Mile, Sprint, and Juvenile have yet to yield a win, Mori’s pioneering spirit reflects Japan’s determination to excel on the international dirt stage.

With continued advancements in Japan’s dirt racing program, these races will likely become more attainable. However, the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile remains a tough challenge, as Japan traditionally focuses on long-term development over early two-year-old speed.