Liputan6.com, Jakarta Haru Urara, a Japanese Thoroughbred racehorse known for her incredible tenacity, passed away on September 9, 2025, at the age of 29.
Haru Urara, born on February 27, 1996, became a national phenomenon in Japan.
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She was famous for never winning a single race in her 113 racing career.
Even so, this unique record made her a symbol of perseverance and hope for many.
The bay mare passed away at Matha Farm in Onjuku, Chiba Prefecture, surrounded by her caring staff.
The creators of Umamusume: Pretty Derby confirmed the sad news on their official X account, writing, "It is with heavy hearts that we share that Haru Urara passed away on September 9."
"The legendary racehorse's legacy serves as the inspiration for the character of the same name in Umamusume: Pretty Derby," the company continued. "We share our condolences to all the staff involved in Haru Urara's care."
Haru Urara's Death Cause and Details
Haru Urara, the legendary racehorse, died of colic, a condition caused by gas buildup in the intestines, according to People.
This was reported by the Japanese entertainment news site Friday Digital on September 9, 2025.
Haru Urara's health began to decline on September 8, 2025 and a veterinarian was immediately called to provide treatment.
Yuko Miyahara, one of the horse caretakers at Martha Farm, told Japanese news outlet Friday Digital that she was worried about the animal after Haru Urara had poop difficulty on Monday, September 8.
However, her condition continued to decreased throughout the night.
On the morning of September 9, shortly after dawn, Haru Urara died peacefully at Matha Farm, where she spent the last years of her life.
Haru Urara's Racing Profile and Career
Haru Urara (ハルウララ), meaning "Glorious Spring" or "Gentle Spring," is a Japanese Thoroughbred racehorse born on February 27, 1996.
She was born in Nobuta Bokujo, Utafue, Mitsuishi, Hokkaido.
Her sire is Nippo Teio, a top-class racehorse who has won the Tenno Sho and Yasuda Kinen.
Haru Urara's racing career lasted from 1998 to 2004, during which she recorded a unique record of zero wins in 113 races.
Her debut on November 17, 1998, at Kōchi Racetrack ended in last place.
Despite never winning, Haru Urara gained national popularity in 2003.
She was nicknamed "a shining star for losers everywhere" (負け組の星, makegumi no hoshi) for her tenacity in continuing to run despite repeated defeats.
Haru Urara's Popularity and Pop Culture Implementation
Haru Urara's unique popularity had a significant impact, especially for Kochi Racecourse.
From June 2003 to August 2004, her popularity helped drastically improve the racecourse's finances, even saving it from bankruptcy.
Many people came to the races just to see Haru Urara race, even though they knew she wouldn't win.
Haru Urara also extended into popular culture, after her anthropomorphic version appeared as a character in the popular anime and game 'Umamusume: Pretty Derby.'
Haru Urara's biography on Uma Musume: Pretty Derby describes her as someone who is "always smiling, no matter how many times she loses," per UPI. "She always tries her best and looks on the brighter side of things."
Haru Urara raced her final race in August 2004, ending her racing career with a record of 0 wins and 113 losses.
After retiring, she moved to Matha Farm in Onjuku, Chiba Prefecture, in 2013..
Although she never won on a formal racetrack, Haru Urara finally achieved her first victory in a time trial race.
On May 18, 2019, she participated in the 'Soft Girls' Gathering,' a time trial race for older horses.
With a time of 16.54 seconds, she took first place.