Soma Nomaoi is not only a traditional event with a history spanning over a thousand years, but also a rare stage where retired racehorses can embark on their second life. The beloved horse of Yoshimitsu Kato, a mounted warrior from Kitago, is “No Reason,” a famous horse that once claimed victory in the G1 Satsuki Sho of the Japan Racing Association. It is extremely uncommon for a horse with such an illustrious racing record to take part in a local traditional festival after retirement.
The more than ten years that Mr. Shikato and No Reason spent charging forward together go beyond a mere rider–horse relationship, illuminating both the deep bond they share as comrades-in-arms and the devoted efforts of those who uphold tradition.
1. The Heir to a Legend: The G1 Horse Descends onto the Battlefield
Q: Could you tell us about how you first encountered No Reason?
Yoshimitsu Kadokashira (hereafter, Kadokashira): After retiring, No Reason came to me after spending some time at a riding club in Minamisōma. It’s truly rare for a G1 horse to take part in the Soma Nomaoi. For more than ten years, he joined the festival as my partner. He has come to embody the idea that the Nomaoi provides a meaningful second career for retired racehorses.
Q: How did his G1 pedigree and temperament reveal themselves on the battlefield of the Soma Nomaoi?
At the time of the interview, he was 25 years old (which would be considered a senior in human terms), but his bold spirit remained exactly as it had been during his racing days. Especially in the Shinki Sodatsusen (the sacred flag competition), he showed a fierce fighting spirit, pressing forward even if it meant scattering the horse beside him, clearly retaining the pride of a G1 champion.
2. Switching to Battle Mode: The State of Perfect Harmony Between Horse and Rider
Q: The Soma Nomaoi festival is filled with exploding fireworks, the blare of conch shells, and flapping banners — an extremely harsh environment for any horse. How did No Reason react to it?
You might be surprised, but he was "totally unfazed." This was an environment that would have caused a normal horse to panic, but his nerves were strong, allowing him to ride safely and maintain stability during the procession.
And the most moving thing is that when I put on my armor and begin saddling up, No Reason himself tightens his belly, firms his stance, pricks his ears, and switches into “battle mode.” This unspoken harmony between us is the culmination of ten years together—a true embodiment of horse and rider acting as one. I believe it is proof of a deep trust that cannot be built through mere training alone.
| Features | Details | Inpact |
| Mental Strength | Thick-skinned nerves" that are unfazed by roars and flags. | Safe riding and stability during processions. |
| Fighting Spirit | The ability to intimidate horses nearby and move forward. | Advantage in the Divine Flag Battle (while active). |
| Intelligence | Switches into "combat mode" when seeing armor. | Cooperative work from the preparation stage onward. |
| Physical Strength | Still healthy in his mid-20s, but consideration is needed for his aging. | Shifting to participation in processions only. |
3. 364 Days of Devotion: The Reality of Keeping a Horse
Q: What kind of dedication is required during the remaining 364 days to prepare No Reason for the Soma Nomaoi?
"It's different from dogs and cats," the financial and physical burden is enormous.
• Feed cost: Over 30,000 yen per month (impacted by rising prices)
• Farrier’s fee: Once every two months — not a cheap expense by any means
• Management: Morning and evening feeding, cleaning, and securing bedding (rice husks)
• Transport: Vehicle maintenance costs, fuel expenses
Especially during the earthquake, he did not evacuate even when food was difficult to obtain, and he protected his horses to the end. The words "we walked the road to recovery together" convey the deep affection that No Reason had for him, not just as a pet or a tool, but as a comrade in arms.
4. Retirement and Farewell
Q: I understand that No Reason passed away a few days after this interview.
Yes. Until his very last moments, he passed away peacefully under my devoted care. Though he was advanced in years, I believe he held on to his pride as a samurai’s horse until the very end on the stage of the Soma Nomaoi.
Q: What does your experience of participating in the Soma Nomaoi with No Reason mean to you, Mr. Shikakami?
He taught me the weight of preserving tradition and the responsibility that comes with entrusting a life. And I believe he showed many people that there is hope — a place where retired racehorses can shine once again within their communities. His spirit will continue to live on here in Soma.
