.png?w=1920&resize=1920,3379&ssl=1 "Uma Musume Community Mourns Haru Urara, Iconic Japanese Racehorse")
A symbol of tenacity endures as the Uma Musume community and fans worldwide mourn the passing of Haru Urara, the iconic Japanese racehorse who captured hearts with her unwavering spirit. Despite never achieving a single victory in her 113-race career between 1998 and 2004, Haru Urara, who passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the age of 29, became a national treasure, embodying perseverance and inspiring the character of the same name in the popular “Uma Musume: Pretty Derby” multimedia franchise, according to Cygames’ official X account statement. The beloved mare’s legacy continues to resonate with fans old and new, a testament to her enduring impact.
A Nation Mourns
Haru Urara’s passing occurred at Martha Farm in Onjuku, Chiba Prefecture, Japan, where she had lived since 2013. Yuko Miyahara, her dedicated caretaker, noticed the mare’s sudden decline on Monday, September 8, when she exhibited signs of illness. Despite immediate veterinary intervention, Haru Urara’s condition worsened overnight, ultimately leading to her death. The cause of death was confirmed as colic, a severe intestinal disorder known to be frequently fatal in horses, as reported by People.com.
From Racehorse to Icon
Foaled on February 27, 1996, in Hokkaido, Haru Urara’s racing career began in 1998. While her record of 113 consecutive losses was unprecedented, it was her refusal to give up that captured the imagination of the Japanese public. Far from being discouraged by her lack of wins, Haru Urara continued to run with unwavering determination, earning her the affectionate nickname “the shining star of losers everywhere,” a title that reflected her symbolic status as an emblem of perseverance. According to NDTV, her betting tickets were even considered good luck charms, further cementing her place in Japanese popular culture.
Uma Musume’s Influence
In recent years, Haru Urara experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity thanks to her portrayal in Cygames’ “Uma Musume: Pretty Derby” franchise. Launched in Japan in 2021 and globally in 2025, the game and anime introduced her story to a new generation of fans. Her character in the franchise embodies the same cheerful, never-give-up attitude that made the real Haru Urara so beloved. The Umamusume Wiki details her in-game stats and abilities, further illustrating her importance to the franchise.
Global Impact and Tributes
The global launch of “Uma Musume: Pretty Derby” led to increased attention and support for the real Haru Urara. Martha Farm saw a surge in visitors and donations, including thousands of kilograms of ryegrass, from devoted fans eager to contribute to her well-being, according to The Straits Times. Following her passing, tributes poured in from around the world. Cygames released a heartfelt statement on their official X account, expressing their condolences to all those involved in Haru Urara’s care. Fans have taken to social media to share their memories and express their gratitude for the inspiration she provided.
The Enduring Legacy of Never Giving Up
Haru Urara’s story transcends the world of horse racing. She embodied the spirit of resilience, demonstrating that value lies not only in victory but also in the unwavering pursuit of one’s goals. Her impact extends far beyond Japan, inspiring countless individuals to persevere in the face of adversity. As stated by Jobaaj News, her story highlights the importance of persistence regardless of the outcome, a lesson that continues to resonate with people from all walks of life.
