Veteran with Over 30 Flags Captured Speaks on the Feeling of “The Divine Flag Arriving” and Memories of a Turbulent Era: Interview with Hiroyuki Sue

The climax of the Soma Nomaoi, the “Battle for the Sacred Flags,” is a spectacular Warring States spectacle where hundreds of mounted warriors vie for the sacred flags launched into the air. The testimony of Mr. SUE Hiroyuki, known as a “veteran flag-catcher” who has captured over 30 flags in this competition, vividly depicts the profound essence of this contest—more than just a test of strength—and the evolving nature of the Nomaoi over time.

What is the true nature of the sensation that the flag is “coming towards you”? And what techniques and spirit should Mr. Sue, who knows the “wild” battles of the past, pass on to the modern mounted warriors?

1. The True Nature of the Sensation “The Flag is Coming”

Q: You have captured over 30 flags in the Sacred Flag Contest. What is the most important factor for capturing flags?

Hiroyuki Sue (hereafter Sue): Technique, experience, and above all, “luck.” Especially the first flag launched, the “Number One Flag,” is heavily influenced by wind, making its landing spot extremely difficult to predict. Even I, who've captured over 30 flags, have never managed to get that first one.

Q: In an interview with Sumi Sakamoto, she mentioned experiencing a sensation of the flag “coming towards her.” Do you ever feel that sensation too, Sue-san?

Sue: Yes, I do. When you catch the flag, it's the moment when the horse formation, wind direction, and your own positioning all align perfectly. At that instant, the flag feels as if it descends toward you with its own will. This might be a kind of zone state that comes with years of experience, a deep trust with the horses, and a finely honed “instinct for victory.”

2. Memories of a Wild Era and Rule Changes

Q: How did the Divine Flag Contest you participated in differ from today's event?

Sue: The Divine Flag Contest back then was far more “wild” than it is now.

• Walking on Horses: There were daredevils who walked over densely packed horses to grab the flag. I heard Mr. Sakamoto's grandfather did that too.

• Physical obstruction: Rough play like whipping neighboring horses or stepping on opponents' stirrups was rampant.

• Iron-fisted discipline: In some strict households, failing to capture a single flag meant no special celebration at dinner that day.

Q: Rules are now standardized, and dangerous actions are prohibited. How do you view this change?

Sue: Ensuring safety is crucial. However, even with standardized rules, the essential skill of controlling the horse remains unchanged. In fact, since rough play is no longer possible, pure horsemanship and judgment are now even more critical.

3. Flag-Capturing Technique: “Horse Racing Practice is the Shortcut”

Q: Please offer advice to young riders aspiring to master flag capture techniques.

Sue: I advocate that “horse racing practice is the fastest route to improving flag capture skills.” In the Divine Flag Contest, positioning before the flag drops, the horse's ability to halt abruptly after it falls, and the technique for rapid acceleration afterward are crucial. All these rely on foundational skills for mastering horse control.

Furthermore, as Monma Gunshi pointed out, the shift to a May schedule carries the risk of horses becoming “too energetic.” With cooler weather making horse control more difficult, the skill of the riders will be tested even more.

4. Passing on Tradition and Looking Toward the Future

Q: What does the Soma Nomaoi mean to you, Mr. Sue?

The Wild Horse Chase is a place where we reaffirm our pride as descendants of the samurai. And passing this tradition on to the next generation is our mission. The act of capturing the flag is not merely a victory; it holds the sacred meaning of “seizing the divine.” We wish to continue watching over and passing on this sacred battle.