On March 23, 2025, all eyes will be on Chukyo Racecourse for the 62nd Aichi Hai (GIII), as anticipation grows for this prominent horse race. This year, it promises to be especially exciting as it shifts its stage to turf, competing over 1400 meters—a change aimed at elevancing the stakes for the participants.
The Aichi Hai has captured the interest of both local and international racing fans alike. Notably, several top fillies are entering this competition, each hoping to claim the substantial first-place prize of 38 million yen. Among the registered competitors is Sweep Feet, a four-year-old mare trained by Shono, who is striving for her second graded victory after displaying commendable performances last year, including winning the Tulip Sho and finishing 4th at the Oka Sho (Japan's equivalent of the Kentucky Oaks).
Other formidable contenders include Iffei On, who remarkably won the Fairy Stakes last year, marking her first graded win, and Klang Ford, who’s embarking on her quest for redemption after having recently faced setbacks. Another horse to watch is Grand Test, who placed second at the Silk Road Stakes. Equally, Singzat Song, noted for her win at the Friesian Review two years ago, will be back at the start line.
Meanwhile, away from the equestrian sphere, the atmosphere surrounding the Los Angeles Dodgers is buzzing as well. Recent events have seen the Dodgers host an engaging dinner party, attended by around thirty people—including players and fans—that celebrated Japanese culture and culinary delights. A fellow player, Freeman, humorously struggled with some of the more adventurous sushi dishes, which made for quite the amusing moment. It appears Shohei Ohtani may have mediated the sushi tasting scenario, offering support to his teammates.
A Dodgers pitcher took the opportunity to profess his newfound love for Japanese bread, saying, "I loved Japanese bread; it's entirely different and delightfully delicious." This passionate endorsement highlights how the Dodgers are immersing themselves not just in the game but also the local culture.
Adding to the spectacle, Dodgers local media couldn’t help but praise the Hanshin Tigers, even cheekily labeling them as the league's “evil empire,” reminiscent of their supremacy. According to local sources, "The Hanshin Tigers may be the true 'evil empire.'" This playful acknowledgment of the Tigers' success brings to mind the longstanding rivalries and the electric atmosphere of Japanese baseball.
With preparations underway for the Aichi Hai and the Dodgers integrating seamlessly with their host country, the week leading up to the horse race is sure to be filled with excitement. Fans, jockeys, players, and trainers alike are gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling chapter of sports culture, one where the bonds between teams and their communities are celebrated on both the field and the racetrack.
Whether it’s through shared meals or competitive spirit, the dialogue between two vibrant cultures—Japanese and American—offers valuable insights and stories, fostering friendships and memories. Be sure to tune in as the Aichi Hai showcases not only racing prowess but also the harmonic blend of sporting traditions.