The 69th Arima Kinen, held on December 22, 2024, at Nakayama Racecourse, concluded with thrilling moments and remarkable performances from top contenders, culminating another remarkable year for the sport of horse racing. This prestigious G1 race was met with much anticipation, particularly among fans who had mobilized to witness the culmination of the year's racing.
The race, which unfolded over 2,500 meters on turf, saw 15 horses lining up for the start. Sadly, one notable withdrawal was Dou Deuce, who had garnered considerable fan attention but was unable to compete. Ultimate victory went to Regaleira, trained by Tetsuya Kimura, with Keita Tosaki aboard. She emerged not only as the top competitor of the day but also made history as the first 3-year-old filly to win the Arima Kinen since 1960. The winning time was recorded at 2:31.8, showcasing her impressive performance alongside her older competitors.
This year's favorite, Urban Chic, ridden by the renowned Christophe Lemaire, unfortunately fell short of expectations and finished 6th. Despite his efforts and the high expectations placed upon him being the top choice, he was unable to capitalize on his early positioning and lost momentum leading to the finish. The race proved to be highly competitive, demonstrating the unpredictability of such significant events.
The finishing order was tight, with Shahriah finishing just behind Regaleira, coming in second place, and Danon Desail claim third. This result not only highlighted the exciting nature of competitive racing but also underscored the rising fortunes of younger horses stepping onto the grand stage.
Keita Tosaki, ecstatic about his victory, expressed his gratitude to Regaleira following the race. "Thank you for all the cheers, even if it was very cold! I feel so grateful to Regaleira. The start was key; I felt she was just perfect and ran smoothly. When I crossed the line, I didn't realize I had won until I reached the end. The emotions I felt on realizing the victory were overwhelming, and I am truly thankful to the owner and my team who supported this success," he stated.
This race is not only significant for its prize money and prestige but also serves as the final major event of the Japanese horse racing calendar, often seen as the definitive showdown of the year. The Arima Kinen has been held annually since 1956, originally called the Nakayama Grand Prix, before it was renamed the Arima Kinen the following year. Each year, it garners incredible attention not only for the chance to see elite racehorses but also for the emotional farewells as many competitors may retire after this event.
Fans particularly emerge from this high-stakes competition with lasting memories, spanning the range from heartbreak to jubilation. Regaleira's victory certainly will be the talk of racing forums and local conversations for weeks to come, especially as avid fans note her status as the first filly to achieve this win for over six decades.
The turnout at the event was impressive, with the large crowd showcasing the deep-rooted passion for horse racing within Japan. Fans utilized the platform to cheer for their favorites, presenting banners and signifying morale and spirit across the racecourse. The atmosphere contained palpable electricity as the competitors, both veteran and newcomer, entered the fray, each with their hopes riding along the way.
Regaleira’s performance could signal the beginning of yet another shining chapter within the racing community, giving enthusiasts everywhere yet another promising name to follow closely as 2025 approaches.
Overall, the 2024 Arima Kinen eclipsed expectations, with incredibly exhilarating moments and outcomes reshaping narratives for participants and their trainers alike. This event has cemented its place as not just another race but as the grand finale, marking the end of this year’s racing saga and setting the stage for what is to come next year, appealing endlessly to both casual fans and hardcore racing advocates alike.
