Despite the scratch of Japan-based Epicharis from the Belmont Stakes presented by NYRA Bets (G1) the morning of June 10, the Japan Racing Association will still accept the simulcast signal of the 1 1/2-mile classic.
Japan accepts a limited number of international simulcasts and the Belmont will be the first American classic offered. On Saturday morning JRA officials contacted the New York Racing Association and said they would move forward with the simulcast despite the scratch.
Last year, when Japan-based Nuovo Record ran in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1T), Japanese players wagered $7.7 million on the race, which went off at 4:30 a.m. in Japan. Before the scratch of Epicharis, NYRA officials were hoping Japan bettors would wager between $10 million-$20 million on the Belmont.
The Japanese wagering pool will not be co-mingled with domestic pools. NYRA will receive a simulcast fee from the Japanese pool.