This Is All You Need to Know
Understanding the race table (Shussouhyo, 出走表) is the key to enjoying Boat Race in Japan.
Every number and column tells a story — from the racer’s class to start timing and odds.
Let’s learn how to read it step by step using the sample below.
New to Boat Race? Read our Beginner’s Guide to Boat Racing in Japan
to learn how Japan’s public races work.
① Race Number
The large number on the left shows the race number for the event.
For example, “7” means this is the 7th race of the day.
② Venue Name
This section indicates the Boat Race stadium where the event takes place.
Example: “Suminoe” or “Edogawa.”
③ Scheduled Start Time
The time shows when the race will begin.
Example: “18:13” means the start is scheduled for 6:13 p.m.
④ Lane and Boat Color
Each racer is assigned a lane number and color:
1 = White, 2 = Black, 3 = Red, 4 = Blue, 5 = Yellow, 6 = Green.
These colors are also used for the boats and helmets, so it’s easy to follow the race visually.
⑤ Racer Name and Registration Number
This section lists each racer’s name and registration number.
Example: “Kato Sho (4327)” — the four-digit number identifies each racer nationwide.
⑥ Racer Class (Rank)
Racers are ranked by performance:
A1 > A2 > B1 > B2
A1 racers are the most consistent and skilled, often favorites in predictions.
⑦ Average Start Timing
This section shows each racer’s average start timing, calculated from their recent races.
Smaller numbers (e.g., 0.12) mean faster reaction at the start.
Comparing start times can help you spot aggressive starters or those who tend to lag behind.
⑧ Racer Win Rate and Performance
This area displays a racer’s overall win rate, split into three key metrics:
Top row: 1st place finish rate (Win percentage)
Middle row: Top 2 finish rate (Quinella rate)
Bottom row: Top 3 finish rate (Trifecta rate)
A higher number means stronger performance.
As a rule of thumb, a win rate above 5.00 indicates a solid racer — in this example, the A1 racer with 6.48 shows excellent form.
⑨ Motor Win Rate
This column represents the motor’s performance, not the racer’s.
Top row: 1st place rate (how often this motor wins)
Bottom row: Top 2 rate (Quinella rate)
Motors with a Quinella rate above 33% are considered average to good.
For instance, racer #3 Matsumoto is using a motor with a strong record — likely to perform well in this race.
⑩ Finishing Position, Course, and Start Timing
This part shows the racer’s recent performance data:
Circled numbers (①②③…) → finishing positions in past races
Kanji numbers (一, 二, 三…) → lanes they started from
Decimal numbers (e.g., 0.15) → start timing in seconds
These details reveal consistency, lane preference, and timing accuracy.
⑪ Today’s Race Schedule
The rightmost column lists other races the racer will compete in on the same day.
For example, “2・7” means this racer (e.g., Kato Sho) will race in Race 2 and Race 7.
Pro Tips for Beginners
- Compare racer class and win rate to spot consistent performers.
- Look for motors with Quinella rates above 33% for good potential.
- Start timing and weather conditions can also shift the outcome.
Once you can read this table, you’ll be able to predict races more confidently — just like seasoned fans in Japan.
Once you understand the entry table, the next step is learning how to fill out a Boat Race mark sheet. → How to Fill Out a Boat Race Mark Sheet
If you want to take your analysis further, check out our Boat Race Prediction Guide
for tips on strategy and conditions.
→ Prediction Guide
