Biwa Hayahide

Biwa Hayahide: The Big-Faced Champion Who Never Gave Up

Introduction

In the world of Japanese horse racing, few names evoke as much admiration and affection as Biwa Hayahide. Known for his consistency, resilience, and unusually large face, he became a fan favorite during the early 1990s. Despite facing powerful rivals and enduring repeated near-misses, he remained a symbol of determination. This article traces his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of Japanese racing.

Early Life and Background

Unremarkable Beginnings

• Foaled in 1990.
• His dam was sold in Newmarket, England, while in foal to a stallion named Charude.
• Brought to Japan before giving birth.
• As a young colt, Biwa Hayahide was not considered particularly attractive.

Rising Through the Ranks

Debut and Early Victories

• Debut: September 1992, 1600 meters — won convincingly, finishing 1.7 seconds ahead.
• Second race: Another 1600-meter contest — won comfortably by a length.
• Third race: Grade 2 Daily Hai Sansai Stakes — won by two lengths and set a record time.

First Major Test: Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes (G1)

Entered as the favorite due to his early success. Battled hard but lost narrowly to Elwaywin, finishing second.

Continued Progress

• Kyodo News Service Hai (G3): Second place finish.
• Wakaba Stakes: Led early in the straight and secured an easy victory.

The Triple Crown Season: The BNW Rivalry Begins

Three horses emerged as key players in the 1993 Classic season:

• Biwa Hayahide
• Narita Taishin
• Winning Ticket

Satsuki Sho (Japanese 2000 Guineas, G1)

Biwa Hayahide and Winning Ticket were neck-and-neck out of the final corner. Narita Taishin launched a powerful run from behind and overtook them both. Result: Biwa Hayahide finished second again.

Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby, G1)

Another intense BNW showdown. Winning Ticket took the lead and held off Biwa Hayahide’s late charge. Biwa Hayahide secured another second-place finish.

A Summer of Transformation

No Rest, Just Training

• Trained throughout the hot summer instead of resting.
• Physically transformed into a stockier, more powerful horse.
• Won the Kobe Shimbun Hai (G2) with ease.

Glory at Last: The Kikuka Sho (Japanese St. Leger, G1)

Biwa Hayahide took the lead early and never looked back. Won by a commanding five lengths and set a record time. Each of the BNW horses had now won one Classic title.

Year-End Challenge: The Arima Kinen

Faced elite competition including Tokai Teio and Rice Shower. Ran a near-perfect race, but Tokai Teio overtook him in the final strides. Another heartbreaking second place.

The Champion of Consistency

Despite narrowly missing multiple major titles, Biwa Hayahide was awarded Horse of the Year for his unmatched consistency throughout the season.

1994: A Season of Dominance and Disappointment

Kyoto Kinen (G2)

Won effortlessly in snowy conditions, defeating Rice Shower by seven lengths.

Tenno Sho (Spring, G1)

Defeated Narita Taishin and proved his strength once again, winning convincingly.

Takarazuka Kinen (G1)

Dominated the field, winning by five lengths. Anticipation grew for a showdown with his younger brother, Narita Brian.

All-Comers Stakes

Defeated Winning Ticket for the fifth time, continuing his streak of finishing in the top two in every race.

Sudden Decline and Retirement

Tenno Sho (Autumn, G1)

Unexpectedly finished fifth. Diagnosed with flexor tendonitis shortly afterward.

Unfulfilled Dream

Narita Brian won the Kikuka Sho and completed the Triple Crown. The anticipated showdown between the brothers never happened.

Retirement and Legacy

• Career record: 16 starts, 10 wins
• Grade 1 victories: 3
• Retired from stud in 2005 due to poor results as a sire.
• Passed away in July 2020 at the age of 30.

Conclusion

Biwa Hayahide may not have swept the Triple Crown, but he captured the hearts of racing fans with his unwavering spirit, steady performances, and iconic large face. His career reminds us that greatness is not only about victories but also about resilience, dedication, and consistency. Today, he remains a beloved figure in the history of Japanese horse racing.