While all eyes are on Do Deuce and his much-anticipated final run in the G1 Arima Kinen, two other fascinating contenders are capturing the hearts of fans. Hayayakko, the first-ever white horse to compete in the Arima Kinen, and the veteran 7-year-old Deep Bond, making a record fourth appearance in the race. Though neither is considered a leading contender, their unique stories and charismatic appeal have earned them a devoted following. With the crowd behind them, these underdogs might just surprise and rise to the occasion. What colour comes to mind when thinking of winter? For racing fans, it might just be white, thanks to Hayayakko, an extraordinary white-coated horse who stands out as a rarity in the racing world. Trainer Sakae Kunieda, when asked about Hayayakko's condition, quipped, "He's as white as the season."

Hayayakko's striking appearance and charm have made him as popular as some G1 winners. In September, he ranked second in a fan-voted "Idol Horse Audition," which even led to the creation of his own plush toy.

A relative of the famed Sodashi, Hayayakko made history in 2019 by becoming the first white horse to win a graded stakes race under the Japan Racing Association, triumphing in the Leopard Stakes. After transitioning back to turf in the spring of his 6-year-old season, he claimed victory in the Hakodate Kinen, making him a graded stakes winner on both turf and dirt. Despite being an underdog, he has remained remarkably consistent, delivering a stunning upset in his last start at the Copa Republica Argentina, where he defied 58.5kg in top weight and a lukewarm 10th-favourite status to clinch victory with a blistering closing 3F of 34.6 seconds.

"This horse is truly one of a kind, a mystery, really," admits Kunieda. "He doesn't always turn it on, but when he does, his explosiveness is unmatched." The trainer also sees parallels between Hayayakko's recent upset and the legendary Matsurida Gogh, who shocked the racing world with his ninth-favorite victory in the 2007 Arima Kinen, a horse Kunieda himself trained. With Hayayakko's unpredictable yet thrilling nature, history might just repeat itself.

In a field filled with stars, both Hayayakko and Deep Bond bring an extra layer of intrigue. Whether they remain the lovable underdogs or rise to become unexpected heroes, their presence ensures the Arima Kinen will be a race to remember.