Mayano Top Gun

Mayano Top Gun: The Unpredictable Genius of Japanese Racing

Introduction

Among the legends of Japanese horse racing, few horses have shown as much versatility, drama, and emotional impact as Mayano Top Gun. With an aggressive spirit and unconventional racing style, he kept fans guessing every time he stepped onto the track. From a slow start to becoming a four-time Grade 1 champion, his story is one of resilience, surprise, and sheer talent.

Early Life and Struggles

Late Start, Slow Progress

• Foaled in 1992, sired by Brian’s Time.
• Debuted in January 1995—relatively late for a racehorse.
• Competed primarily in dirt races and needed four attempts to earn his first win.
• Struggled in lower classes after that initial victory.

Turning Point on Turf

• Placed third in his eighth race, his first on turf.
• Won his ninth race, also on turf.
• Entered the Grade 2 Kobe Shimbun Hai with three wins in nine starts.

The Climb to Classic Glory

Securing a Spot in the Kikuka Sho

• Finished second in the Kobe Shimbun Hai, securing eligibility.
• Also placed second in the Kyoto Shimbun Hai.

Kikuka Sho (Japanese St. Leger, G1)

With no clear favorite, Top Gun—third in the betting—took the lead at the final corner and secured his first Grade 1 win.

Shocking the Veterans: Arima Kinen (G1)

Entered as the 6th favorite, facing stars like Narita Brian and Hishi Amazon. He set a slow pace from the front and held on for a surprise win. Named Horse of the Year for 1995.

The Rivalry with Narita Brian

Hanshin Daishoten: A Clash of Champions

Both past Horses of the Year battled fiercely, distancing themselves from the field. Narita Brian narrowly won, with Top Gun finishing second in what became a legendary race.

Challenges and Comebacks

Spring Tenno Sho (1996)

Top Gun finished fifth due to poor condition. Sakura Laurel won and would be named Horse of the Year.

Takarazuka Kinen (1996)

With few strong contenders, Top Gun easily claimed victory without even needing the whip.

Autumn Season

• All-Comers: 4th place, defeated by Sakura Laurel.
• Autumn Tenno Sho: Took the lead, finished second.
• Arima Kinen: Finished 7th; Sakura Laurel won.

Final Triumph: Spring Tenno Sho (1997)

The Big Three Face Off

Faced Sakura Laurel and Marvelous Sunday. Top Gun held back early and charged from the outside in the stretch.

A Dazzling Finish

Passed all rivals with an explosive finish, breaking the 3200m record by 2.7 seconds. One of the greatest races of the 1990s. Claimed his fourth Grade 1 victory.

Retirement and Legacy

Injury and Retirement

Developed flexor tendonitis and retired with 8 wins in 21 starts, including 4 G1 titles.

Unique Racing Style

His fierce temperament meant he chose how to race—sometimes leading, other times coming from behind.

As a Stallion

• Produced versatile offspring—turf and dirt, short and long distances.
• No G1 winners, but several G2 and G3 victors and G1 runner-ups.
• Moderately successful as a sire.

Chakra: His Only Stallion Son

Chakra followed in his father's long-distance turf footsteps but had little success at stud. Hopes remain for Top Gun's daughters to produce champions.

Final Years and Farewell

Mayano Top Gun passed away in 2019 at age 27. As his name suggests, many fans believe he now watches over them from the skies above.

Conclusion

Mayano Top Gun was more than a racehorse. He was an unpredictable genius, capable of stunning victories and dramatic finishes. Whether controlling the pace or launching from the back, he raced with heart and flair. His legacy continues to inspire fans of Japanese racing.