Blow the Horn Shocks with 2nd Place in Takarazuka Kinen Fan Vote – The Reigning Champion Shows "Proof of Serious Intent"
The memory of last summer, as he thundered down the turf at Hanshin Racecourse, comes flooding back vividly. It was the 65th Takarazuka Kinen where Blow the Horn unleashed a powerful late surge to claim his first GⅠ title. About nine months have passed since then, and the intermediate results of the fan vote announced this week are already drawing intense attention to the upcoming June stage. Blow the Horn has remarkably secured 2nd place. The 42,922 votes are proof that he has transcended the realm of a mere "strong horse" and is now racing up the stairs towards becoming a "national idol horse."
Why Blow the Horn, Why Now? – The Reason Fans Are Captivated
The atmosphere surrounding him has clearly changed. His 3rd place finish in last year's Arima Kinen was by no means a bad result, but more impressive was the "composure" in his race execution. Settling in mid-pack during the journey and smoothly maneuvering to the outside on the straight – it's a display of consistency. The partnership with his seasoned veteran jockey has seemingly reached perfection, and fans are now expecting not just a race where he "doesn't lose," but a race where he "wins." The high number of votes he received, second only to Liberty Island in the intermediate announcement, is a direct reflection of this absolute trust.
The "Face of Excitement" Seen in Merchandise – The Significance of Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirt and Zip Hoodie [Cannot be sent via Click Post]
The passion of horse racing fans extends far beyond just betting tickets. At JRA official shops and tack shops across the country, merchandise related to Blow the Horn is currently selling at an extraordinary rate. In particular, the "Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirt" remains in short supply as the sweaty season approaches. Made from breathable material and featuring a design incorporating the horse's name and image of his silks, it's also gaining popularity among younger fans.
Even more noteworthy is the "Blow the Horn/Zip Hoodie". The online store product page includes a notice stating "【Cannot be sent via Click Post】". Because Click Post has thickness restrictions, this indicates the hoodie is made of quite 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, it almost feels like donning racing silks themselves.
The 65th Takarazuka Kinen: Who Are the True Rivals?
Come June's Grand Prix. The 2200m course at Hanshin is an ideal stage for Blow the Horn. If he aims to replicate last year's victory, the challenge lies less in distance suitability and more in the "competition." Looking at the top names in the fan vote so far:
- Liberty Island: Despite being a filly, she delivers overwhelming performances against older horses and is arguably the strongest active horse.
- Do Deuce: A horse that improves with racing, his condition during this period is remarkably impressive.
- Justin Palace: Also adept 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 fiercer than in previous years. However, both the jockey and the team carry the pride that they "cannot lose" and will surely come perfectly prepared. It's clear that this year's Takarazuka Kinen has shaped into a clear narrative: "Will Blow the Horn achieve a repeat victory, or will it mark the dawn of a new era?"
The "Blow the Horn Phenomenon" Analyzed from a Business Perspective
With popularity soaring to this level, he transcends the status of a racehorse and gains value as a brand in his own right. Fan merchandise sales are a crucial revenue stream for the horse racing world, particularly functioning as a gateway to attract younger demographics. If Blow the Horn secures consecutive victories in this year's Takarazuka Kinen, the related market is likely to expand even further. It even hints at the possibility of sports apparel manufacturers or lifestyle brands making a full-scale entry into this domain in the future. The day may not be far off when consumer actions like "wearing or donning Blow the Horn" become a new pillar of the horse racing business, alongside betting turnover.
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 numerous horse racing fans sense "something special" in Blow the Horn's performances. His composed demeanor in the paddock, his powerful stride during the returning canter, and that extraordinary late kick he unleashes on the straight. When all these elements align, we will become witnesses to history. All that's left is to pray for clear skies in June.