A tragic accident occurred at the Sonoda Racecourse in Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, on January 13, 2023, during which jockey Matsumoto Kousuke lost his life after being thrown from his horse. At approximately 5:50 AM, three racehorses collided unexpectedly. According to reports from the Hyogo Prefectural Horse Racing Association, Matsumoto was one of the jockeys participating in the training session.
Details indicate the incident unfolded as one horse became uncontrollable and veered off course, colliding with two other horses. Amid the chaos, Matsumoto fell, suffering severe injuries. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he was later declared dead. Fellow jockeys who fell during the incident were reported to have sustained minor injuries.
Matsumoto, aged 43, had been part of the Sonoda racing community since his debut on October 14, 2002. He recorded 261 victories out of 7,624 races throughout his career, showing resilience as he returned to the racing scene after recovering from multiple severe injuries, including one incident where he suffered spinal injuries during training.
A member of the Hyogo Prefectural Horse Racing Association expressed their sorrow publicly, stating, "We offer our heartfelt condolences and pray for his soul." This sentiment was shared among many who knew Matsumoto, who had developed a reputation for his bright personality, earning smiles from fans and colleagues alike. He was also noted for his participation in events, such as the NHK contest, which showcased his vibrant spirit.
This recent accident is not isolated; it follows other similar tragic events within the Japanese horse racing industry, reminding everyone involved of the inherent risks present within the sport. For example, just last year, two other jockeys—Tsukamoto Yudai and Fujioka Kotaro—also suffered fatal accidents during races, highlighting the dangerous environment these athletes face daily.
On the day of the incident, January 13, there were no races scheduled at the Sonoda Racecourse; organizers have pledged to observe moments of silence to honor the memory of Matsumoto Kousuke. Scheduled races proceeded as planned on January 14, with jockeys, staff, and attendees standing still for reflection before the first race, scheduled to start at 10:40 AM.
Matsumoto Kousuke leaves behind not only a legacy of remarkable athletic achievements but also cherished memories among his peers. He was respected, regarded, and loved; his contagious smile always brightened the atmosphere around the racecourse. Colleagues stated he was the type of person who would always lighten the mood, and his absence will be deeply felt.
Jockeys and their teams may face relentless training, demanding schedules, and the ever-present risk of injury. Yet, they continue to dedicate themselves to this rigorous sport, showcasing both their athletic skills and their eternal passion for horse racing. The community mourns the loss of Matsumoto Kousuke, whose life tragically ended too soon.
His life story serves not only as a reminder of the dangers of the sport but also of the strength and spirit of those who love it. Matsumoto achieved great things and inspired many along the way, and he will always be remembered for his dedication to the equestrian world and the joy he brought to it.