JRA commercial roundup. Cool commercials from the Japan Racing Association featuring racehorses.
The Japan Racing Association, commonly known as the JRA, is the organization that runs horse racing.
These days, we often see commercials aimed at getting young people interested in horse racing.
JRA’s commercials range from friendly, story-driven pieces designed to spark interest in the sport itself to spots announcing major races.
Many of these commercials feature racehorses in full stride, and I think a lot of viewers find their galloping forms captivating.
In this article, we’ll showcase all the JRA commercials that have aired so far, so be sure to check them out.
JRA Commercial Compilation: Cool Japan Racing Association ads featuring racehorses (1–10)
JRA Hello, Special Times. 'Sengoku Autumn' Version / 'GⅠ' VersionNEW!Masami Nagasawa, Ai Mikami, Kuranosuke Sasaki, Ryoma Takeuchi
The familiar group is shown heading to the racetrack and having a passionate discussion about autumn horse racing.
In the “Warring States Autumn” version, each cast member talks about the unique appeal of the autumn racing season from their own perspective.
Meanwhile, in the “GⅠ” version, Ryoma Takeuchi, who joins the group later, suggests, “Let’s go watch a GⅠ,” inviting everyone along, and we see them going to the racetrack together.
Watching the cast speak so enthusiastically about what makes horse racing fun might pique the interest of people who’ve never watched it before.
JRA Hello, Special Times. 'Picnic' EditionMasami Nagasawa, Ai Mikami, Kuranosuke Sasaki, Ryoma Takeuchi
In this commercial, horse-racing buddies Masami Nagasawa, Ai Miura, and Kuranosuke Sasaki plan a picnic at the racetrack and invite Ryoma Takeuchi to join them.
The scene where they spread out a picnic blanket at the track and everyone digs into Sasaki’s homemade katsu sandwiches looks so much fun—it’s enough to make you jealous! It really conveys a desire to refresh the image of horse racing and encourage people to enjoy it casually and make it more accessible.
The background music is “Mela!,” one of the signature songs by Ryokuoushoku Shakai.
It’s an upbeat, catchy track that delivers empowering lyrics to give you the courage to take a step forward—perfect for when you’re feeling down or want to boost your energy.
JRA 'Today, my story runs' Version
Aimer’s song “crossovers” is an uplifting anthem that encourages those who are chasing their dreams.
It’s also known for being featured in the JRA commercial “Today, My Story Runs.” The commercial is a moving piece that portrays a race from the perspectives of people involved with a racehorse.
Watching it, you can feel how the lyrics resonate with the mindset of a racehorse running on behalf of many people’s dreams.
The beautiful vocals and animation are sure to stir your heart.
JRA Hello, Special Times. “Special Times” versionMasami Nagasawa, Ai Mikami, Kuranosuke Sasaki
This commercial portrays the special time spent watching horse racing, where you can experience the thrill of the races and the emotional drama surrounding them.
Other members speak to Ryoma Takeuchi about the appeal of horse racing, and by convincing him, they come to share the values of engaging with the sport.
Over the fresh, vibrant visuals set at the racetrack plays Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s signature song, “Mela!” It’s a track that conveys the resolve to start running while carrying anxieties yet believing in oneself, combining a refreshing sound with a strong sense of power.
JRA HERO IS COMING. 'Big Band Arima Kinen' VersionMasami Nagasawa, Ai Mikami, Kuranosuke Sasaki
This commercial introduces the Arima Kinen, a true dream matchup of heroes, and conveys the joy of witnessing a dream race.
Behind the big band, iconic moments from past Arima Kinen races are shown, while Masami Nagasawa, Ai Miura, and Kuranosuke Sasaki are moved by what they see.
To heighten the emotion, the big band performs Namie Amuro’s “Hero.” Presented in a grand big-band arrangement, the music evokes the image of a fanfare, further emphasizing the festive, glamorous atmosphere.
JRA Arima Kinen Promotion “JOin us AR1MA” Version
JO1’s song is full of charm that makes listeners’ hearts dance! The lyrics are said to carry the message, “Forget the boring everyday routine and let’s have fun together!” Released on December 9, 2024, this track is also used as the CM song for the JRA Arima Kinen promotion.
With its pop, energetic sound, it’s a song that gives strength to people working hard every day.
Try listening to it when you’re hanging out with friends or when you’re feeling down.
JRA 70th Anniversary Commemoration: “Revere the Horse”
Set to the classic graduation song Aogeba Tōtoshi and carried along with the cadence of a choral recitation like you’d hear at a graduation ceremony, this is JRA’s 70th anniversary commercial titled “Aogeba Uma Tōtoshi.” And the content of the recitation? It’s an ode to the gallant exploits of racehorses throughout the ages.
If you’re a horse racing fan, this will surely stir your heart.
Interspersed with footage from the time, it’s a perfect commercial for an anniversary celebration.