ばんえい競馬 iPad版

ABOUT BANEI HORSES
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A unique and dramatic spectacle of horse and man set in Hokkaido In this form of racing, horses pull steel sleds along a 200 meter straight course containing two hill obstacles. In contrast to the better-known flat racing, it is a contest that turns on both the power and endurance of the horses and the technique of the riders. The origins of Banei racing lie in festival races that were held between the workhorses used in the early development of Hokkaido. This tradition was formalized and developed into its current form over 35 years ago, and as the worlds only draft horse race it is now drawing attention both in Japan and overseas as a unique Hokkaido attraction. Held in the lush greenery of northern Japan, Banei racing is now the most powerful form of horse racing in the world.

Horses race pulling sleds weighing up to a metric ton
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Banei racing involves the pulling of weights, which are divided into rider weights and sled weights. Sled weights vary by class, with different regulations applying to each class. Horses must pull up to a metric ton during a race, with the weight of the harness adding 70 kilograms or more on top of that. A race between one ton giant horses is a sight to behold. Weighing up to twice that of a thoroughbred, you may find it hard to believe at first sight that a horse can be this big. However, Banei horses are not merely about size. As they were originally workhorses, they are not only be powerful, but display outstanding endurance while pulling heavy loads. With horses like these in competition, its no wonder that the result is exciting. Spectators shouldnt expect beauty, but can certainly expect to be thrilled and impressed.


INFO ON BANEI HOURSE RACING
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http://www.banei-keiba.or.jp/language/english.html


Photographer Shin Yamagishi
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Born on March 22, 1950 in Chiba Prefecture. Focus on portrait photography of performers of the Japan Professional Photographers Society, gravure idols, athletes, politicians, etc. Extensive experience in gravure idol photography, magazines, and advertisements. Over 350 photographic collections published. Held a photographic exhibition, and published a collection of photographs of Hokkaido‘s “Banei” horse racing, which he has continued to photograph. Appointed by the tourism ambassador of Obihiro City.Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia on March 23, 2009, and is currently still undergoing treatment and in good spirits.


INFO ON SHIN YAMAGISHI
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http://yamagishi-shin.com/
http://yamagishi.jugem.jp/
http://www.facebook.com/YamagishiShin