Racing in the JRA is structured in a way to encourage competition and a gradual rise through the JRA ranks. Race classes are G1, G2, G3, Listed, Open Class, 3-time, 2-time, 1-time winner, Maiden, and Newcomer’s race. Juvenile racing is introduced to the JRA fixture list in early June.
As horses proceed to the higher echelons of the JRA, ballot priority for oversubscribed races is determined by race earnings.