Film Lens

Japan Racing focuses on the horse racing industry in Japan, particularly through the lens of Katsumi Yoshida and his Northern Farms on Hokkaido. The documentary details the operations of this extensive horse breeding and training facility, highlighting the training methods used on their indoor uphill track. It also covers the family's legacy in horse racing, tracing back to Yoshida's father, Zenya, who established the family's presence in the industry in the 1950s.
The film illustrates the strategic approach taken by trainers like Kahiko Sui to prepare horses for major races, including the Melbourne Cup, where Japanese horses Delta Blues and Pop Rock achieved notable success. It emphasizes the financial aspects of the industry, including the significant investments made by the Yoshida family, such as the $60 million spent to buy the champion horse Deep Impact, underscoring the ambition to elevate Japan's status in global horse racing.
Why Watch
- •See how Katsumi Yoshida built a racing empire.
- •Find out about Japan's success in the Melbourne Cup.
- •Meet the trainers behind winning strategies for races.
Did You Know
•Katsumi Yoshida's Northern Farms spans over 500 hectares.
•Delta Blues and Pop Rock finished first and second in the 2006 Melbourne Cup.
•Katsumi Yoshida's racing empire is valued at hundreds of millions of dollars.
•Deep Impact, a champion horse, was bought back for close to $60 million.
Perfect For
Horse racing fansSports business enthusiastsJapanese culture followers