![[From Classics to Hidden Favorites] A Compilation of Main Track Entrance Themes [2026]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/F0l8Z-9TWCI/sddefault.jpg)
Horse racing, a sport with a long history, has in recent years seen a growing fanbase not only among men but also women, and thanks to the popularity of Uma Musume, it feels like its appeal has been reaching younger audiences as well.
In 2025, the TV drama The Royal Family, based on Kazuma Hayami’s novel, became a huge hit, but when it comes to elements essential to horse racing—a culture cherished for many years—it has to be the ‘parade ring entrance themes’ played before the races! In this article, we’ll present a lineup centered on iconic classics of these entrance themes, while also including lesser-known tracks and surprising songs that were used only for a limited time.
If just hearing them brings those famous scenes back to life for you, or even if you’re new to horse racing, please read on.
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[From Classics to Hidden Favorites] Compilation of Main Track Entrance Themes [2026] (1–10)
The ChampionSagisu Shirō
This piece, “The Champion,” was used in 1987 for GI-grade races in western Japan.
It was composed by Shiro Sagisu and is notable for its stylish approach that combines cutting-edge sounds and musicality for the time.
The powerful ensemble no doubt heightened the atmosphere at the racecourses.
As befits the highest-class GI races, it carries a bold, dignified quality that amplifies the excitement—truly a track worthy of a champion.
Theme of SUPER KEIBA,from ’95 to ’07Senju Akira
For many people, this is the definitive song for the parade ring entrance.
Countless racing fans who eagerly watched Super Keiba, the well-known central horse racing broadcast, would agree.
The piece used during GI race paddock entrances was composed by Akira Senju and included on his 2009 album Best Wishes III under the title “Theme of SUPER KEIBA, from ’95 to ’07.” Its grand atmosphere and bold yet flowing melody evoke the opening theme of an epic film—so beautiful that even if you didn’t know it was a horse racing theme, you’d find yourself captivated.
As an aside, the same track was used for the 2019 Satsuki Sho, which surely delighted many fans.
Grade Equus Marchsugiyama kouichi
In 1987, this piece, “Grade Equus March,” was used for GI-level races in eastern Japan.
Composed by Koichi Sugiyama, it captivates with a grand, powerful style in the tradition of classic marches.
As the great racehorses entered to this music, it must have significantly heightened the atmosphere at the racetrack.
Since it was used for the highest-ranked races, many people likely recall those events the moment they hear this piece.
Flame WinnerSagisu Shirō
In 1987, when the abbreviation of the central racing organization was changed from NCK, short for “Nippon Chuo Keiba-kai,” to the now-familiar JRA, “Japan Racing Association,” the track entrance music was also revamped.
At that time, the piece used in western Japan and Hokkaido was Shiro Sagisu’s “Honoo no Winner” (“Flame of the Winner”).
Sagisu is well known for composing several horse racing entrance themes and fanfares, including this one.
Compared to Koichi Sugiyama’s entrance music used in the Kanto region around the same period, Sagisu’s piece stands out for its dashing, beautiful melody.
The Rising SunShiina Kunihito
Here is “The Rising Sun,” which has been used as the parade-in song for maiden races since 2008.
It’s very popular, and since maiden races draw a lot of attention, it’s no surprise that hearing this track makes horse racing fans’ hearts pound.
The piece feels like an energetic, youthful fanfare, and the electric guitar sound helps create its stylish atmosphere.
And with that playing as the horses head into their tense debut race, it’s wonderful, isn’t it!
Heroes’ PreludeShiina Kunihito
“Heroes’ Prelude” seems to amplify the freshness of the morning air even more.
It’s a piece by Kunihito Shiina, a Tokyo-based composer known for numerous works in films, TV dramas, and commercials, and it’s used as the entrance theme in general races in western Japan.
The bright yet gentle brass sound is incredibly pleasant.
It lifts the excitement for the upcoming race with just the right level of energy, making it indispensable for a day at the races.
Listening to this track makes you feel like it’s going to be a great day—and above all, it makes your heart leap!
Baton of Dreams ~Smile for You~Asaka
A pleasant number featuring Asaka’s soothing vocals, included as the coupling track on the single “GIVE & TAKE,” released in February 2025.
Produced as the 30th anniversary image song for Green Channel, which broadcasts all JRA races, the piece is a graceful waltz that overturns the conventional image of traditional parade-ring entrance tunes.
There’s also a lovely anecdote that composer Kohei Tanaka deliberately chose a 3/4 time signature to capture the beauty of the thoroughbred.
The song was created through a process in which Asaka first wrote the lyrics and the music was composed afterward, and just listening to it is sure to lift your spirits.
It’s also used as the entrance theme for the Green Channel Cup, making it recommended not only for horse racing fans but also for anyone who wants to start their morning on a refreshing note.