The 2024 Arima Kinen, held on December 22, ignited excitement among horse racing enthusiasts as Regaleira triumphed over her competitors to claim victory. Ridden by the seasoned jockey Kyota Tosaki and trained by Tetsuya Kimura, Regaleira prevailed by just 18 centimeters, marking her first significant win since the Hopeful Stakes the previous year.
Taking place at Nakayama Racecourse, the Arima Kinen is one of Japan's most prestigious horse races, drawing significant attention each year. This year's event attracted over 54,505 attendees, with total revenue reaching approximately 55.8 billion yen. The atmosphere was electric, with fans eager to see history made on the track.
Regaleira's victory is notable not just for the close finish but also for the significance of her win. This marked the first victory for a three-year-old filly since the 1960 champ, Star Loch. It was only the second time ever for this age group to clinch the title, making Regaleira's achievement even more momentous.
Overall, Regaleira faced tough competition, including Shahryar, the 2021 Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) winner, and Danon Desail, who took early control of the race. Racing strategists and fans alike were captivated as Tosaki expertly guided Regaleira closely behind the front runners, maintaining her rhythm and positioning for the final stretch.
“I was desperately trying to keep my feelings strong until the very end. It was Regaleira’s strength which got us over the line. I can only express my gratitude,” said Tosaki after the race, clearly emotional about the thrilling finish.
The race was competitive, with Regaleira showing remarkable resilience against older contenders who had proven their mettle. “This 64-year gap for three-year-old fillies is quite special. It’s incredible what we’ve achieved today,” noted commentator reflections during the broadcast.
Kimura echoed the sentiment, saying, “Regaleira appeared much calmer and composed than before. She brought home incredible luck today.” The trainer, who leads his second Arima Kinen win, pointed out the backstory of Regaleira's previous four consecutive losses, leading up to this triumphant moment.
Notably, Regaleira’s heritage includes esteemed lineage with her father, Suave Richard, adding to the celebration of the race’s history. The admiration from fans was palpable, with many expressing excitement over Regaleira's future potentials, both domestically and internationally.
The significance of this win extends beyond just the trophy or prize money; it signifies growth, potential, and the changing tides of horse racing, with new champions, like Regaleira, stepping forward to take the reins.
Following this impressive performance, Regaleira is poised to take on future challenges and possibly international competitions. Enthusiasts are already buzzing about her potential for the 2025 racing season. The path mapped out for this outstanding filly seems brighter than ever, serving as inspiration within the racing community.
