Nagoya Sports

Though it has much changed over the centuries, keiba [horse racing] in Japan is not merely a sport; it’s a cultural phenomenon deeply ingrained in the nation’s fabric. With a history going back to the 8th centruy, when its role was of a more religious bent, horse racing remains today an integral part of sporting life. Japan has something of an unusual relationship with gambling. Casinos are banned, as are most forms of sports betting. However, some activities, such as the lottery, are permitted, and pachinko players hop through a loophole letting them ‘sell’ the prizes they win. The other form of acceptable gambling is in the ‘Public Sports’ of  which horse racing is the most celebrated. At the heart of Japan’s horse racing scene are its world-class keiba-jo [racetracks], each meticulously designed to offer a thrilling experience for both spectators and participants alike. Here, near to Nagoya, there are two such theaters for sporting endeavour: the Chuky0 Racecourse and the Kasamatsu Keiba. Chukyo Racecourse Located in Toyoake, Chukyu Racecourse is Aichi’s predominant keibajo. Built in 1953, it is unusual amongst the Japan Racing Association (JRA) courses as it is independantly owned, and thus freer of the JRA. With a total…