40th Asian Racing Conference, Sapporo

The 40th Asian Racing Conference opened on Tuesday, and yes “the ARF should be immensely proud of the singular contribution that this Conference has made historically.”

Staged in Sapporo until 1 September the Conference ‘will continue to make history to thoroughbred racing’ as the first ARC was staged in Tokyo in 1960, and Japan having three renewals.

In welcomed 800-odd delegates from some 40 countries at the official Opening Ceremony, the ARF Chair Mr. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, pointed to several challenges facing racing.

Namely to address continued ‘economic obstacles, increased competition from rival entertainment, growth of illegal wagering, rapidly changing customer behaviours, and revenue decline.’

“While we witness some positive developments with a significant growth of racing activities in the Gulf region,” said Mr. Engelbrecht-Bresges, who is CEO of The Hong Kong Jockey Club.

“At the other end of the spectrum some of our members face major financial difficulties, and worse the extinction of racing in some jurisdictions, as our industry is at a critical juncture.”

“I firmly believe it is necessary that we critically review our current situation and to secure our future, for as leaders in our industry we need to prepare challenges to advocate change.”

“We need to explore new ways of collaboration, and embrace new technology like AI to help us to be more relevant to our customers and the confidence we can master these challenges,”

“Not only does the Conference promote meaningful change, it symbolises the willingness and ability of many diverse groups and individuals to come together with shared ambitions.”

“For the betterment of the sport this Conference is truly a unique, global meeting place for racing,” said Mr. Engelbrecht-Bresges at the Opening staged at Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park.

“At the outset, I express my sincere thanks and appreciation to our host the JRA, especially President Yoshida-san, and Executive Advisor Goto-san, Chair of the ARC Organising Committee.”

“In addition, our ARF team under the leadership of our Secretary-General Andrew Harding for organising this Conference, as all JRA hosted ARC were held in Tokyo, most recently in 2008.”

Mr. Masayoshi Yoshida, President and CEO of JRA followed “On behalf of the Japan Racing Association and the Japanese racing and breeding industry, I extend a warmest welcome to you all.”

“Since the first Asian Racing Conference was established, 64 years have passed and this forum has grown into a premier platform for the development of global horse racing at this 40th ARC.”

The 40th ARC Business Programme honours the theme of ‘Be Connected, Stride Together’ is from 28-30 August at the Sapporo Convention Centre, plus the Sapporo Race Day and Regional Tour.

The guest speakers and forums will examine issues, including post-pandemic trends in horse racing, developments in the wagering space, extending the sport’s global reach and equine welfare.

The Minister of Agriculture Mr. Tetsushi Sakamoto said “I hope this Conference serves as a platform to strengthen cooperation among countries and the advancement of the racing industry.”

Hokkaido is home to Shadai Stallion Station and Northern Farm, two of Japan’s leading studs, and is centre of Japan’s breeding industry with Equinox the 2023 Longines World’s Best Raehorse.

Today, Hokkaido produces nearly 98% of thoroughbreds born in Japan, 7,800 foals annually with the passion and dedication of those involved in the breeding industry over the years have laid the groundwork for the recent international successes.