Regaleira Makes History as First Filly to Win Consecutive Arima Kinen Titles

The champion filly Regaleira has secured a historic double. She won the 2025 Arima Kinen at Nakayama Racecourse in Japan. This marks her second straight victory in the prestigious year-end race.

Regaleira is now the first female horse to win the Arima Kinen in consecutive years. This achievement breaks a significant barrier in Japanese racing history.

A Record-Setting Campaign for a Modern Legend

Regaleira’s 2025 season was nothing short of dominant. According to reports from the Japan Racing Association, she captured three Group 1 races this year. Her season included a stellar win in the Queen Elizabeth II Cup just last November.

Her path to the Arima Kinen was backed by unprecedented fan support. A record 612,771 public votes made her the top choice for the race. This overwhelming popularity highlights her status as a national favorite.

The victory solidifies her place among racing’s elite. Only three other horses have managed to win the Arima Kinen back-to-back in its modern era.

Overcoming Adversity to Claim Glory

This repeat victory is a testament to Regaleira’s resilience. Her 2024 Arima Kinen win was itself historic, being the first by a 3-year-old filly in 64 years. She then faced a significant setback with a fracture.

Her successful return from injury makes this achievement even more remarkable. She didn’t just come back; she returned to peak form against top-level competition. Her story is one of tremendous talent and tenacity.

The win sends a powerful message in a sport often dominated by male competitors. She was the only female in the 16-horse field, yet she defeated them all.

Regaleira’s consecutive Arima Kinen victories have etched her name permanently in the record books. This 4-year-old filly has redefined what is possible for female champions in Japanese horse racing.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Arima Kinen race?

The Arima Kinen is one of Japan’s richest and most prestigious horse races. It is held annually at Nakayama Racecourse. The field is largely selected by fan vote, making it a “people’s race.”

How many times has Regaleira won the Arima Kinen?

Regaleira has now won the Arima Kinen twice. She won the 2024 edition as a 3-year-old. She has now successfully defended her title in the 2025 race.

Why is Regaleira’s victory so significant?

She is the first filly or mare to win the race in consecutive years. This had never been done before in the race’s long history. It places her in an exclusive club of repeat winners.

What were Regaleira’s other big wins in 2025?

Before the Arima Kinen, she won the Queen Elizabeth II Cup in November. She set a new stakes record time in that race. This was one of her three Group 1 victories for the year.

Who owns and bred Regaleira?

Regaleira is owned by Northern Farm’s Katsumi Yoshida. She is by the sire Suave Richard. Her breeding and ownership are central to the Japanese racing industry.

What happens next for Regaleira?

Her future racing schedule is currently unknown. She has already secured a legendary status this season. Fans will eagerly await news of her next possible start.