Blow the Horn’s Shocking Rise to 2nd in the Takarazuka Kinen Fan Vote – The Reigning Champion Shows His "True Intent"
The memories of last summer, when he blazed across the turf at Hanshin Racecourse, come flooding back. The 65th Takarazuka Kinen, where Blow the Horn unleashed his explosive finish to claim his first GⅠ victory. Roughly nine months on, the interim results of the fan vote announced this week have already turned all eyes towards the June showdown. Blow the Horn has impressively secured 2nd place. With 42,922 votes, it's proof he has transcended the realm of a mere 'top contender' and is galloping up the stairs towards becoming a 'national equine idol'.
Why Blow the Horn, Why Now? – The Secret to His Fan Appeal
The atmosphere surrounding him has clearly shifted. His 3rd place finish in last year's Arima Kinen was by no means a poor result, but more striking was the 'composure' in his race tactics. Settling in mid-division, then smoothly swinging wide entering the straight – it was a display of pure reliability. His partnership with the seasoned veteran jockey seems almost perfected, leading fans to expect not just a run that avoids defeat, but a run built to win. Accumulating votes second only to the current leader, Liberty Island, is a direct reflection of this absolute trust.
The 'Entity of Excitement' Seen Through Merchandise – The Significance of Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirts and Zip Hoodies [Cannot be sent by Click Post]
The fervour of racing fans extends far beyond just buying tickets. At JRA official shops and tack shops across the country, Blow the Horn merchandise is flying off the shelves. In particular, the 'Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirt' is consistently selling out as the warmer, sweat-inducing months approach. Made from breathable material and featuring a design incorporating his name and silks-inspired graphics, it's proving popular with younger fans too.
Even more noteworthy is the 'Blow the Horn/Zip Hoodie'. The online store product page carries the crucial note: '【Cannot be sent by Click Post】'. As Click Post has thickness restrictions, this indicates the hoodie is made from substantial material, featuring high-quality, three-dimensional embroidery and prints that capture the horse's power and strength. Fans are willing to pay higher shipping costs to own this quality piece. At this level, wearing it feels akin to donning the actual silks of a champion.
The 65th Takarazuka Kinen: Who Are His True Rivals?
Awaiting him in June is the Grand Prix. The 2200m course at Hanshin presents an ideal stage for Blow the Horn. If he's to replicate last year's victory, the main challenge lies not in distance suitability, but rather in the 'competition'. Looking at the other top names in this fan vote:
- Liberty Island: Despite being a filly, she consistently delivers overwhelming performances against older horses, solidifying her place among the current strongest.
- Do Deuce: A horse that improves with each run; his form around this time of year is truly remarkable.
- Justin Palace: Similarly adept at Hanshin, he turned the tables on Blow the Horn in last year's Arima Kinen.
If this stellar line-up materialises, the race pace will undoubtedly be fiercer than in previous years. However, both jockey and team will carry the pride of being 'unbeatable' into the race, preparing him to perfection. One thing is clear: the narrative for this year's Takarazuka Kinen is sharply defined – will it be Blow the Horn's triumphant title defence, or the dawn of a new era?
The 'Blow the Horn Phenomenon' from a Business Perspective
With such immense popularity, he has transcended his status as a racehorse to achieve value as a brand in his own right. Fan merchandise sales represent a vital revenue stream for the racing world, crucially serving as a 'gateway' to attract younger demographics. Should Blow the Horn secure consecutive victories in this year's Takarazuka Kinen, the associated market is poised for even greater expansion. It even hints at the potential for sportswear manufacturers and lifestyle brands to make serious inroads into this sector in the future. The day when consumer behaviour like 'wearing Blow the Horn' becomes a new pillar of the horse racing business, alongside betting turnover, may not be far off.
Finally – The Anticipation for Race Day
There's still time until the main event following these interim results. Yet, the fact he has gathered so many votes at this stage is proof that numerous racing fans sense 'something special' in Blow the Horn's performances. His calm demeanour in the paddock, the powerful stride in his warm-up, and that otherworldly turn of foot in the straight. When it all comes together, we become witnesses to history. Now, all we can do is hope for a clear sky in June.