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Through Seven Seas capable of ending Japan’s long wait for Arc glory | Greg Wood

Despite the absence of Equinox all may not be lost for his country’s passionate – and patient – fans at Longchamp

For nearly 20 years, Japanese fans’ dreams of a first win for their country in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe have been turning to dust in the Bois de Boulogne on the first Sunday in October. Deep Impact, El Condor Pasa and Orfevre, twice, have all hit the woodwork, but untold billions of yen have left Japan in hope only to find their way into the coffers of the pari mutuel urbain, never to return.

There was huge optimism a few months ago, when Equinox strolled home in the Sheema Classic in Dubai to establish himself as officially – and still – the world’s top-rated racehorse. But the possibility – indeed, likelihood – of testing ground always weighed heavily against a trip to Paris.

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