Blow the Horn’s Stunning 2nd Place in Takarazuka Kinen Fan Vote—The Reigning Champion Shows His "True Intentions"
Memories of last summer, when Blow the Horn blazed across the turf at Hanshin Racecourse, come flooding back vividly. It was the 65th Takarazuka Kinen where he unleashed a powerful closing spurt to claim his first GⅠ title. About nine months later, the intermediate results of the fan vote announced this week are already drawing intense attention to the upcoming June race. Blow the Horn has impressively secured 2nd place. With 42,922 votes, this surpasses the realm of a mere "strong horse," proving he's charging up the stairs toward becoming a "national idol horse."
Why Blow the Horn, Why Now?—What Captivates the Fans
The atmosphere surrounding him has clearly changed. While his third-place finish in last year's Arima Kinen was by no means a poor result, even more impressive was the "composure" in his race execution. Settling in mid-pack during the journey and steadily shifting wide on the straight shows his reliability. The partnership with his veteran jockey has reached a perfected state, leading fans to expect not just a race where "he doesn't lose," but a race "he wins." The number of votes he received, second only to Liberty Island in first place, is a direct reflection of this absolute trust.
Tangible Evidence of "Zeal" in Merchandise—The Significance of Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirt, Zip Hoodie [Cannot be shipped via Click Post]
The fervour of horse racing fans extends beyond simply betting on horses. At JRA official shops and tack stores across the country, merchandise related to Blow the Horn is currently seeing extraordinary sales. In particular, the "Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirt" remains in short supply as the sweaty season approaches. The design features breathable fabric with graphics inspired by the horse's name and silks, and is proving popular among younger fans as well.
Even more noteworthy is the "Blow the Horn/Zip Hoodie". The product page on the online store includes a notice stating "【Cannot be shipped via Click Post】". Because Click Post has thickness restrictions, this is evidence that the hoodie is made of substantial material, featuring three-dimensional embroidery or prints that express the horse's power. Fans are willing to pay higher shipping costs to own this quality item. At this point, wearing it feels almost like donning the horse's own silks.
The 65th Takarazuka Kinen: Who Are the True Rivals?
Awaiting him in June is the Grand Prix. The Hanshin 2200m course is an ideal stage for Blow the Horn. If he aims to replicate last year's performance, the challenge lies less in distance suitability and more in the "competition." Looking at the top names in the fan vote:
- Liberty Island: Though a filly, she delivers overwhelming performances against older horses and is considered one of the strongest active horses.
- Do Deuce: A horse that improves with racing, his condition during this period is remarkably impressive.
- Justin Palace: Also skilled at Hanshin, he turned the tables on Blow the Horn in last year's Arima Kinen.
If this star-studded lineup assembles, the race pace will undoubtedly be tougher than in previous years. However, both the jockey and the team will carry the pride of "cannot be defeated" into the race, aiming for a perfect finish. The narrative for this year's Takarazuka Kinen has become clear: "Blow the Horn's repeat victory or the dawn of a new era."
The "Blow the Horn Phenomenon" Through a Business Lens
With such immense popularity, he has transcended the status of a mere racehorse and now holds value as a brand. Sales of fan merchandise are a crucial revenue stream for the horse racing world, particularly serving as a gateway to attract younger demographics. If Blow the Horn successfully defends his title at this year's Takarazuka Kinen, the related market is poised for even greater expansion. It even hints at the possibility of sports apparel manufacturers and lifestyle brands making a serious foray into this field. The day when consumer actions like "wearing or sporting Blow the Horn" become a new pillar of the horse racing business, beyond just betting ticket sales, may not be far off.
Finally—The Excitement of Awaiting Race Day
There is still time until the main event following the intermediate announcement. However, the fact that he has gathered so many votes at this stage is proof that many horse racing fans sense "something special" in Blow the Horn's performances. The composed figure in the paddock, the powerful stride in the pre-race warm-up, and that extraordinary closing spurt on the straight. When everything aligns, we will become witnesses to history. All that's left is to pray for clear skies in June.