David Morgan

Five key storylines that will define Japanese racing this autumn

International incursions in Hong Kong and North America, the prospect of one of the most highly anticipated Japan Cup clashes of all time and two champion riders engaged in a fierce jockeys' premiership dogfight: David Morgan picks out the five most compelling storylines as Japanese racing surges towards its 2023 crescendo.

Adrian Webber

Keiba Diary: from the bearish to the bullish

Adrian Webber shares his insights to the JRA scene as Japan’s autumn season begins to ramp up with more Group 1 action.

Adrian Webber

Keiba Diary: Mama Cocha steps up as Sodashi retires

Adrian Webber was on hand to witness Mama Cocha’s big win, and he also has word of her famous older sister’s retirement, plus Mickaëlle Michel’s latest jockey test and an exciting autumn programme.

David Morgan

Lemaire locks sights on Kawada as Equinox limbers up

A sixth JRA champion jockey title is a high priority for French star Christophe Lemaire, as is adding to Equinox’s already impressive haul of Group 1 wins.

Adrian Webber

Keiba Diary: Moreira lands a last day haul

Adrian Webber has the latest from the JRA, with a Classic trial upset, Take pitching for the ‘golden’ generation, and news of what’s to come.

David Morgan

Liberty Island heads Nakauchida’s autumn team

The Triple Tiara is the focus for the outstanding filly, and while no decision has yet been made about the Japan Cup, the thought of a showdown with Equinox is tantalising.

David Morgan

Takarazuka Kinen: Lemaire is confident in Equinox’s adaptability and class

Equinox will face 17 rivals at Hanshin when he attempts to complete the rare feat of winning the Takarazuka Kinen as well as the Tenno Sho Autumn and the Arima Kinen.

Takarazuka Kinen G1 Guide

The Takarazuka Kinen is a fan-voted all-star race named for the city of Takarazuka, where Hanshin racecourse is located. It was first run in 1960.

Yushun Himba G1 Guide

The second leg of Japan's Triple Tiara for three-year-old fillies, the Yushun Himba (Japanese Oaks) is a test of stamina that has been won by past greats including Almond Eye, Gentildonna and Loves Only You.

David Morgan

Songline steals Sodashi’s thunder

Sodashi held the crowd in awe from the moment she stepped into the Tokyo parade ring, but ultimately it was to be Songline’s day.

Victoria Mile G1 Guide

The G1 Victoria Mile has been won by some of Japan's greatest ever fillies and mares, boasting names such as Vodka, Almond Eye and Gran Alegria on the honour roll.

Video

Asian Racing Review: the existential threat of affordability checks

Michael Cox and Andrew Le Jeune discuss how gambling reform in the UK could be a portent to worrying changes in Australia.

Michael Cox

Here’s hoping Hong Kong’s heroes usher in a new era

News that Romantic Warrior could head to Japan for the Tenno Sho (Autumn) and a showdown with Equinox is not just a great prospect for racing fans, but would be a much needed boost for the reputation of Hong Kong racing.