Cygames' smash-hit franchise, Uma Musume Pretty Derby, has been a sensation since its mobile game launch, spawning popular anime adaptations and merchandise collaborations. This year, the Steam English version took off in the West, reigniting the fervor. Fans were so moved by the story of Haru Urara that they even donated hay across borders, showcasing their incredible passion.
However, the real-life horse that inspired the beloved character Haru Urara, cherished by fans worldwide, passed away peacefully at the ranch yesterday (September 9) in the early morning, surrounded by staff. Her passing has drawn an outpouring of tributes from fans across Japan and beyond.
According to news reports, the ranch manager who cared for her stated: "On the morning of the 8th, she hadn't defecated, and we knew something was wrong. We immediately called the vet and stayed with her all night, but her condition suddenly worsened before dawn, and she passed away... It's truly heartbreaking."
The cause of death was "colic," a severe gastrointestinal issue caused by indigestion, gas buildup, or poor intestinal motility, often fatal for horses, claiming the lives of many famous steeds. The staff added: "Haru Urara was 29 years old, equivalent to about 90 in human years, but she was still full of spirit just the day before. We used to have many fans from China, Korea, and other Asian countries visit, but after the English version launched, it was a completely different story. We received reservation requests from fans in the US, the Philippines, and even Poland. Recently, about a third of our visitors have been from overseas, so this really came as a shock..."
This news has saddened not only Japanese horse racing enthusiasts but especially international fans. Many were deeply moved by Haru Urara's story, which sparked a collective hay donation campaign for her this past July.
In reality, Haru Urara was a legendary racehorse with a record of 0 wins in 113 starts, earning her the unique title of a "0-win celebrity horse." Her indomitable spirit, showcased in documentaries, endeared her to countless racing fans. In 2016, American director Mickey Duzyj even made a documentary about her, "The Shining Star of Losers Everywhere," which won the Short Documentary Award at the Toronto Film Festival.
In the game, her incredibly low base stats and skills make winning the Arima Kinen with her an almost impossible feat. Yet, even when she's running last, Haru Urara waves happily, expressing her joy in racing. This vibrant, optimistic spirit—her focus on enjoying the race rather than winning—is why so many Uma Musume fans adore her.
▼ In July, many fan-created artworks depicting hay donations to Haru Urara flooded X (formerly Twitter) overseas, symbolizing the widespread affection for her.
It's heartbreaking that less than two months later, Haru Urara has suddenly passed on. The "Shining Star of 113 Consecutive Losses" leaves behind a legacy that brings tears to many fans, who can only offer their blessings and hope she maintains her optimistic, innocent spirit in horse heaven.
▼ X (formerly Twitter) is now filled with countless tribute posts and fan art for Haru Urara.
It's a bitter pill for many fans, especially after so many visited her recently, seeing her live a peaceful and healthy life. Though she never won a race, this remarkable horse left an indelible mark on countless hearts, continuing to inspire dreams and courage.