On behalf of the Executive Council of the Asian Racing Federation (ARF), it is my great pleasure to invite you to the 40th Asian Racing Conference (ARC) to be held in Sapporo, Japan from 27 August to 1 September 2024.

Since the Conference was first convened in Tokyo in 1960, the ARC has developed into a leading international forum for addressing opportunities for, and challenges to, racing. More than this, importantly, the ARC continues to foster collaboration between racing organisations and stakeholders so that we can work with one another and grow stronger together.

It is fitting that the ARC will now return to the place of its birth for the momentous occasion of its 40th edition, where it will continue building on the legacy of its predecessors.

Located on Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is perhaps most well-known to overseas visitors for having hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics. To the global horseracing industry, Sapporo provides a gateway into the very heart of the Japanese thoroughbred industry, with Hokkaido being home to over 700 breeding farms accounting for more than 90% of the nationwide total. Internationally, Japan has developed into one of the leading nations in breeding, with Japanese runners climbing to new heights around the world.

This year also marks a significant milestone for the Japan Racing Association (JRA) as it celebrates its 70th anniversary. Since its founding, the JRA’s achievements on the global stage have gone from strength to strength. From breeding to racing, Japan’s prowess is truly remarkable, as evidenced by Equinox being named the 2023 Longines World’s Best Racehorse and the Japan Cup (G1) being named the 2023 Longines World’s Best Horse Race.

Working together with the JRA, we have curated an exciting 40th ARC programme which will provide an excellent opportunity to witness first-hand the dedication, care and professionalism that go into producing and running world-class racehorses.

Themed “Be Connected, Stride Together”, the 40th ARC aims to support deeper collaboration and partnerships amongst ARF members and stakeholders which will ensure the long term prosperity of our sport. I am most grateful to the team at the JRA for its dedication and efforts in hosting the 40th ARC, which promises to be an unforgettable experience showcasing the very best of Japanese racing, breeding, culture and hospitality.

I look forward to seeing you in Sapporo in August 2024, where we can once again join hands to make profound and positive change together.