Top Female Jockey Retires in Horse Racing in Japan

Nanako Fujita most accomplished female jockey has decided to retire after being charged with breaking strict mobile phone rules in Horse Racing in Japan. The 27 year old who became an ideal figure in horse racing in Japan requested to have her license canceled following her suspension for using a smartphone in a restricted area. Her retirement has also sent shockwaves through the racing community because she is stepping away from a career in which she became a trailblazer for women in the sport.

Fujita’s journey in horse racing in Japan started at the age of 16 when she became the first woman in 16 years to join the top tier jockey ranks in the Japan Racing Association. Her entry into the male dominated sport attracted a large number of followers and she quickly made a lot of fans due to her decision and skill on the track. Throughout her career, Fujita amassed 166 JRA victories the most by any female jockey in Japan’s history, and made a name for herself internationally by winning the Women Jockeys’ World Cup in Sweden in 2019.

Fujita’s violation came to light when it was revealed that she had brought her smartphone into a restricted area where communication devices are banned. She allegedly used her phone to communicate on multiple occasions during April last year. After an investigation by the JRA, she was charged with breaking the rules, leading to her suspension. Rather than facing disciplinary actions, Fujita decided to retire from the sport altogether.

“I will never forget the sight of her crying as she wrote (her retirement notice) with my fountain pen,” said the jockey’s boss trainer Yasuhiro Nemoto in a press conference at Miho Training Center.

Despite the fuss surrounding her departure Fujita’s legacy as a top female jockey in horse racing in Japan is undeniable. She was not only a pioneer for women in the sport but also one of its most successful competitors. 

As Fujita leaves the racing world behind, her influence on horse racing in Japan will be remembered. She smashed barriers and became an inspiration to all new generations of female riders. Although her career ended unexpectedly, her achievements will continue to serve as a reminder of her contributions to the sport. While the circumstances of her retirement are unfortunate, her success and the doors she opened for others will not be forgotten.