[From Classics to Hidden Favorites] A Compilation of Main Track Entrance Themes [2026]

Paddock Marchsugiyama kouichi

Paddock March

From 1987 to 2007, for 20 years, the Kanto region’s special races were heralded by the much-loved entrance theme “Paddock March.” With this piece playing in the background as the racehorses appeared and the announcements chimed in, the scene surely heightened the anticipation for the races to come.

Composed by Koichi Sugiyama of the Dragon Quest series, it’s a grand march that unmistakably bears his signature touch.

Its dynamic contrasts are part of the appeal, and the moments when the sound swells and intensifies are truly exhilarating!

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Murakami Shinpei

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Legend Will BeginShiina Kunihito

I tried playing “Legend Will Begin” by Kunihito Shiina

This piece, which colors the tension-filled moments at the racetrack, is a grand, orchestra-style work by Kunihito Shiina.

Used since 2008 as the track-entry music in the Kansai region, it has become an iconic presence for special races and is deeply etched in the hearts of racing fans.

Combining classical elements with a powerful melody, it is notable for the commanding tone of its brass section.

Although it has not been commercially released due to its close association with official JRA races, you’ll often hear it at the racecourse.

Clutching your betting slip and waiting with a pounding heart for the race to begin, listening to this track will let you feel the true essence of horse racing even more keenly.

Get A ChanceIwashiro Tarō

[High Quality Audio] Kansai Graded Stakes Main Track Entrance Theme - Get A Chance

This piece, characterized by its grand and powerful orchestration, is a work by Taro Iwashiro composed as a theme for graded stakes races.

Its musicality vividly conveys the energetic atmosphere of the racetrack and the bravery of the racehorses and jockeys who take on the challenge.

Used for races at JRA’s Kansai main courses, it superbly expresses the grandeur of the competition, the tension, and the sense of anticipation for victory.

Listening to this work will surely set hearts racing—not only for horse racing fans, but also for those visiting the track for the first time.

A WinnerIwashiro Tarō

A Winner (Kanto-Hosted Graded Stakes Race Parade Song)

Here is a masterpiece that captures the hearts of horse racing fans.

Used since 2010 as the entrance theme for graded stakes races, Taro Iwashiro’s composition is characterized by its majestic orchestral sound.

With the grand sense of scale that only Iwashiro—an award-winning composer of film and television scores—can deliver, it heightens the excitement of the racehorses’ entrance.

Featured on the album “Road to Glory,” this track was released alongside various other JRA-related race pieces.

With a classical, symphonic tone highlighted by strings and brass, it splendidly conveys the solemnity of the moment when the horses step onto the main track, making it an indispensable part of racing events.

Above The SkyShiina Kunihito

I tried transcribing Above The Sky by Kunihito Shiina by ear

Used as the parade-ring entrance music since 2008, this piece has the power to transform the atmosphere of the racecourse.

Its grand orchestral sound heightens the tension of special races and captivates the audience.

Composed by Kunihito Shiina, the track enjoys tremendous popularity among horse racing fans, expressing the thrill of racing through music.

Though it has no lyrics, the piece itself evokes the gallant figures of the racehorses and sparks listeners’ imaginations.

Many fan-made performance videos based on ear-copied arrangements have been posted on platforms like YouTube, reflecting the passion of its supporters.

When you visit a racecourse, be sure to listen for this piece—it’s sure to raise your anticipation for the race.

Now1Komuro Tetsuya

Tetsuya Komuro / DEBF3 – Now1 -Album Mix-

In 2014, the parade (main track entrance) music for the Spring Stakes was “Now1,” the theme song of the TV program “Minna no KEIBA,” which has been on air since 2010.

Because the show is extremely popular among horse racing fans, choosing this song as the entrance music generated a lot of excitement.

Composed by Tetsuya Komuro as a DTM track, it offers a sense of how times have changed from the traditional fanfare performances.

A collaboration with a TV program—an irresistible selection for fans.

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Murakami Shinpei

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To The TopIwashiro Tarō

[High-Quality Audio] Third-Stage Graded Stakes Main Track Entry Theme: To The Top

When it comes to the entrance music used for graded stakes races in the JRA, many people probably think of this piece.

Composed by Taro Iwashiro in 2010 for JRA’s G1, G2, and other graded races, it features a brilliant, grand orchestral sound.

Its powerful melody and tension-filled development lend a dramatic flair to the parade of racehorses onto the track.

It’s also included on the 2012 album “Road to Glory: Taro Iwashiro Main Track Entrance Music (JRA GI, GII, GIII),” so be sure to check it out.

It’s a must-listen not only for horse racing fans but also for anyone who enjoys orchestral music.