Blow the Horn’s Shock Second Place in Takarazuka Kinen Fan Voting – The Reigning Champion Shows "Proof of True Intent"

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 speed to claim his first GⅠ title. About nine months later, the intermediate fan voting results announced this week are already drawing keen attention to the upcoming June showdown. Blow the Horn has impressively claimed second place. With 42,922 votes, this is proof that he has transcended the realm of a mere "strong horse" and is climbing the stairs towards becoming a "national idol horse."

Why Blow the Horn, Why Now? – The Reasons Fans Are Captivated

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, what stands out even more is the "composure" in his racing style. He settles comfortably in mid-field during the race and shows a reliable turn of foot, swinging wide on the straight. His partnership with his seasoned veteran jockey has reached a perfected state, and fans are now expecting him to run "to win," not just "to avoid losing." The high number of votes he received in the intermediate results, second only to Liberty Island in first place, is a direct reflection of this absolute confidence.

The "Reality of the Craze" Seen Through Merchandise – The Significance of "Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirt" and "Blow the Horn/Zip Hoodie [Cannot be sent by Click Post]"

The passion of horse racing fans extends beyond simply betting on their favourite horses. At JRA official shops and tack stores across the country, Blow the Horn-related merchandise is currently seeing remarkable sales. In particular, the "Blow the Horn/Dry T-Shirt" is consistently in short supply as the sweaty season approaches. The design features the horse's name and graphics inspired by his silks on breathable material, appealing even to younger fans.

Even more noteworthy is the "Blow the Horn/Zip Hoodie." The product page on the online store includes a note: "【Cannot be sent by Click Post】". Click Post has thickness restrictions, so this indicates the hoodie is made of substantial material, featuring detailed 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's almost like donning the actual silks themselves.

Who Are the True Rivals for the 65th Takarazuka Kinen?

Awaiting him is the Grand Prix in June. The 2200m track at Hanshin 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-ranked horses in the fan voting so far:

• Liberty Island: A mare who, despite her age, delivers overwhelming performances against older horses, cementing her status as one of the strongest active racehorses.
• Do Deuce: A horse that improves with racing; his condition during this period is truly remarkable.
• Justin Palace: Also a specialist at Hanshin, he turned the tables on Blow the Horn in last year's Arima Kinen.

If this stellar lineup assembles, the race pace will undoubtedly be fiercer than in previous years. However, with pride on the line, both jockey and team will surely aim for a flawless peak condition. It's become clear that this year's Takarazuka Kinen presents 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" from a Business Perspective

When popularity reaches this level, a racehorse transcends its category and gains value as a brand. Fan merchandise sales are a valuable revenue stream for the horse racing world, particularly functioning 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 sportswear manufacturers and lifestyle brands making a serious foray into this field 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 Anticipation Awaiting Race Day

There is still time until the main event following the intermediate results. However, the fact that he has garnered this many votes at this stage is proof that many horse racing fans sense "something special" in Blow the Horn's performances. His calm demeanour in the parade ring, his powerful strides in the pre-race warm-up, and that otherworldly finishing kick on the straight. When everything aligns, we become witnesses to history. All that's left is to pray for fine weather in June.