Yutaka Take Celebrates 35 Years Of Racing Legacy At Time Capsule Event

On March 20, 2025, renowned jockey Yutaka Take, aged 56, attended the opening ceremony of 'Time Capsule 35' held at the Central Community Center in Taketoyo Town, Aichi Prefecture. This poignant event celebrated the town's 70th anniversary and also marked 35 years since Take's participation as a one-day mayor when the capsule was sealed.

In an event steeped in nostalgia, Take, who was only 20 years old at the time, reflected on his journey as a jockey. He had originally visited Taketoyo on October 5, 1989, coinciding with the town's 35th anniversary. The time capsule, buried in the courtyard of the Taketoyo Town Hall, contained items such as essays and drawings from local elementary and junior high school students, aerial photos, and personal mementos like a signed autograph card from Take himself, a letter of commission from his tenure as a one-day mayor, and pictures taken during the sealing ceremony.

Addressing the audience, Take remarked, "I want to continue being an active jockey until the next anniversary." This declaration emphasizes not only his dedication to the sport but also his desire to maintain an active role in the racing community well into the future. During a lively question-and-answer segment, attendees posed several pointed inquiries. One particularly curious question was about the winning percentage of the horse he plans to ride in the upcoming Hanshin Grand Jump, Shownan Lapantha. Displaying his characteristic enthusiasm, Take expressed optimism about the horse's potential and the upcoming races.

"I want to win. If I win, it will be my 39th consecutive year of winning a graded race," he shared with determination. Achieving this milestone would tie him with his record for the most graded race wins at the Kyoto Daishoten. He also reminisced fondly about the incredible horses he has ridden, including legends like Mejiro McQueen, Special Week, and Deep Impact, all of whom have contributed to his storied career. As Take pointed out, "I've ridden many great horses; it’s hard to compare, but in terms of potential, I believe Silence Suzuka had that extraordinary promise. I always wished I could have taken him racing overseas when he was still four years or younger."

Silence Suzuka, a horse beloved by fans for his incredible speed, was a subject of bittersweet reflection for Take. His partnership with Silence Suzuka yielded spectacular performances, particularly in the 1998 Kin-ro-Sho, where they finished ahead of the competition with a significant lead. However, the fond memories were tinged with sadness as the horse suffered a tragic accident during the Tenno Sho (Autumn) that same year, which ultimately led to his untimely death.

As he wrapped up the event, Take expressed his gratitude towards the people of Taketoyo, noting how supportive the community has been. "I am thankful for the encouragement from the town with the same name, Taketoyo. This event has given me a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the past 35 years," he said. He also mused about how, at the young age of 20, he never contemplated how long he might continue his career as a jockey. "I just wanted to keep aiming for my goals and ensure I am delivering results, as that is what allows you to keep moving forward in this profession," he added, hinting at future ambitions and the hope of returning once more for the next anniversary event.

Looking back on those early days, Take recalled the significant events of 1989: the introduction of a consumption tax in Japan and the historic fall of the Berlin Wall, which marked a pivotal time both in world history and in his early career as a jockey. By then, Take was already solidifying his legacy, having been in his third year as a professional jockey with 133 victories under his belt and achieving success in multiple G1 races.

"I would like to aim for the top again and reclaim the leading jockey title. I have that hunger to succeed again," he declared, demonstrating a spirit that has not waned even after so many years in the sport. It is this relentless ambition and love for racing that continues to endear Yutaka Take to fans and fellow competitors alike.

As he looks toward the future while cherishing his past, Yutaka Take remains a beacon of inspiration within the Japanese horse racing industry, embodying the passion and determination that has defined his illustrious career. Only time will tell what further achievements lie ahead as he continues to champion the sport he loves.