In 1984 Symboli Rudolf thundered down the stretch of Kyoto Racecourse to capture the 45th Kikuka Sho and became the 4th Triple Crown winner in Japanese history. This was just the first historical moment in the colt’s life. He went on to win back to back Arima Kinen’s in 1984 and 1985. He was only the 2nd Japanese bred horse to win the Japan cup in 1985 (He was 3rd the year before). He was also the first Japanese horse to win 7 G1 titles.  His last race was the San Luis Rey Handicap at Santa Anita Racetrack in Arcadia California, other than scratching from the Takarazuka Kinen in ’85 it was the only time this champion ever finished out of the money. He came in 6th.

Major Racing Wins

1. ■1984 Yayoi Sho (GIII), Nakayama 2000m
   

2. ■1984 Satsuki Sho (Japanese 2000 Guineas) (GI), Nakayama 2000m
   

3. ■1984 Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) (GI), Tokyo 2400m
   

4. ■1984 St Lite Kinen (GII), Nakayama 2200m
   

5. ■1984 Kikuka Sho (Japanese St. Leger) (GI), Kyoto 3000m
   

6. ■1984 Arima Kinen (Grand Prix) (Domestic GI), Nakayama 2500m
   

7. ■1985 Nikkei Sho (GII), Nakayama 2500m
   

8. ■1985 Tenno Sho (Spring) (GI), Kyoto 3200m
   

9. ■1985 Japan Cup (GI), Tokyo 2400m
   

10. ■1985 Arima Kinen (Grand Prix) (GI), Nakayama 2500m
    

Notable Finishes

1. ■1984 Japan Cup (GI) Tokyo 2400m (3rd Place)
   

2. ■1985 Emperor’s Cup (Fall), Tokyo 2000m (2nd Place)
   

He didn’t have the best of stud careers but his legacy lives on with his most successful son, Tokai Teio, who stands at Shadai Farm. Tokai Teio also won the Satsuki Sho (’91), Japan Derby (’91), Japan Cup (’92), and Arima Kinen (’93) just like his father.

I saw him last winter on Japan Cup day. He looked amazingly fit for a 29 year old. He had been acting a little sick over the past few days and had some body tremors. They called the vet to watch over him but the early this morning Rudolf passed away in his sleep at the age of 30.

Rest in Peace Rudolf! Your legacy will live on!

Below are videos of some of Rudolf’s best races.