During a keynote speech at the 40th Asian Racing Conference (ARC) in Sapporo, Japan, Mr. Masayuki Goto, Vice-Chair of the Asian Racing Federation (ARF) and Executive Advisor of the Japan Racing Association (JRA), identified aspects vital to horse racing’s success – particularly in Japan – and outlined several safeguarding initiatives for the sport.
Addressing delegates on day three of the Conference, Mr. Goto, who began working at the JRA in 1975, said: “To offer engaging and emotionally compelling horse racing, it’s essential to maintain a well-organised racing schedule that considers age, sex, distance, and track surface. This includes a reliable system for rating and grading races. As race organisers, we must ensure these elements are well-integrated.”
“I have always believed and said that thoroughbred racing with well-organised racing program is a ‘global asset’. A thoroughbred born anywhere in the world – once registered – can compete in any racing country globally. The better the pedigree and performance, the more welcomed they are as racehorses and breeding stock in any country.
“As custodians of the racing industry, we must consider what challenges we face in preserving this global heritage for future generations.”
A former President and Chief Executive Officer of the JRA, Mr. Goto cited the importance of breeding, strong bloodlines, and generational clashes between past and present champions in horse racing as some of the major drawcards in driving fan engagement.
“From the perspective of those who organise races, providing fans with such generational champion battles is crucial. Thoroughbreds, with over 300 years of selective breeding, play a significant role in preserving superior bloodlines. I do not deny that some may retire early to pass on their genes, as an entertainment sport, it’s also our mission to meet the fan’s expectations.
“Fans are always eager to know who the best is. Is it last year’s Derby winner or this year’s winner?”
Mr. Goto shared the JRA’s stance regarding climate change: “The JRA holds race meetings almost every weekend throughout the year. The increasing impact of global warming, especially during summer races, has become a growing concern.
“In response, the JRA has implemented various measures based on research from the JRA Equine Research Institute to combat heat stress. These include installing mist cooling systems in saddling enclosures and parade rings, setting up walk-through showers for horses along the return path from the races, and providing air-conditioned stables.
“Maintaining a safe environment for racing is a continuous effort.”
Mr. Goto said the JRA is increasing its focus on racehorse welfare.
“Through IFAR (International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses) and other organisations, we have made strides in horse welfare, but there is still much to be done. JRA, along with the NAR (National Association of Racing), established a new organisation called the Thoroughbred Aftercare and Welfare (TAW) in April 2024 to focus on wellbeing of post-racing life and retirement for racehorses,” he said.
Additionally, attention is also paid to responsible gambling measures by the JRA, which strengthens ties between the sport of horse racing and the community, Mr. Goto said.
“I believe it is about walking with society, earning its recognition and trust. Building a strong foundation within the community is essential.
“Five years ago, the government set up a council for gambling problem measures, and the JRA, as a gambling operator, is a member. We’ve implemented measures such as limiting outdoor advertising, establishing consultation services, restricting facility access to the designated personnel, removing ATM machines from the racecourse and installing self-imposed limits to online betting account, according to the government policy,” he said.
“We will continue to take responsible actions to address these issues.”
Having played a major role in elevating the international status of Japanese racing, Mr. Goto has been involved in horse racing his entire life. His father worked at the JRA as a veterinarian, fostering his interest in horse racing during early life, as well as contributing to his long-standing commitment of enhancing the sport.
“As I grew older and progressed through middle school, high school, and university, I had more opportunities to engage with horse racing. This exposure kindled a desire in me to be involved with the racing industry to elevate horse racing’s status in society,” Mr. Goto said.
“Additionally, I wanted to give back to the industry that had supported my education. I also found myself drawn to the thrill of the sport – solving the puzzle of which horse would win and cheering for my favorite horses and jockeys.
“Ultimately, it was this desire to improve horse racing's societal standing that guided my decision to pursue a career with JRA.”
