Haru Urara: The Racehorse That Inspired Millions Passes Away at 29

Haru Urara, the Japanese racehorse who became a national icon despite never winning a single race, passed away on September 9, 2025, at the age of 29. Her passing was confirmed by Martha Farm in Onjuku, Chiba Prefecture, where she had lived since 2013. The cause of death was colic, a common and potentially fatal condition in horses caused by intestinal issues. Haru Urara’s enduring story of resilience and her status as a cultural phenomenon have left an indelible mark on both Japanese and global audiences.

From Humble Beginnings to National Stardom

Born on February 27, 1996, in Hokkaido, Haru Urara was sired by Nippo Teio, a top-class racehorse. Her name, meaning “Glorious Spring” or “Gentle Spring” in Japanese, carried a promise of greatness. However, her racing career, which began on November 17, 606, at the Kōchi Racetrack, was anything but conventional. She placed last in her debut race and continued to compete regularly for six years without ever winning. By 2003, Haru Urara had lost 80 consecutive races, and her story caught the attention of the Japanese media.

Dubbed “the shining star of losers everywhere,” Haru Urara became a symbol of perseverance. Her betting tickets were even used as o-mamori, or protective charms, believed to bring good luck and ward off traffic accidents. According to Mainichi Shinbun, her most notable race occurred in March 2003 at Nakayama Racecourse, where she ran in front of a packed crowd and national television cameras. Though she did not win, her determination captivated millions.

Retirement and a New Chapter of Fame

Haru Urara retired in August 2004 with a record of 113 races and zero wins. Yet her story did not end there. In May 2019, she recorded her only “victory” in a time trial for retired horses, proving that her spirit remained unbroken. Her legacy was further cemented when she became one of the inspirations for a character in the popular multimedia franchise Umamusume: Pretty Derby, launched in 2021 by Cygames.

As Yahoo! Japan reported, Haru Urara’s character was introduced alongside other famous racehorses such as Special Week and Grass Wonder. The franchise, which includes a game and anime series, portrays anthropomorphized “horse girls” competing in races. Haru Urara’s cheerful, never-give-up personality resonated deeply with fans, especially during the game’s global release in June 2025. Crowdfunding initiatives like the “Fresh Hay Bank” allowed fans to donate ryegrass for retired racehorses, with Haru Urara receiving over 2,500 kilograms of grass in just one month.

A Legacy of Perseverance

Haru Urara’s passing comes shortly after the death of Grass Wonder, another real-life racehorse featured in Umamusume, who died in August 2025 at the age of 30. Despite her losses on the racetrack, Haru Urara’s story continues to inspire millions. As Anime Corner noted, she became a symbol of resilience and hope, embodying the idea that success is not always measured by victories but by the courage to keep trying.

The staff at Martha Farm expressed their grief over her passing. Yuko Miyahara, the farm’s director, shared, “We stayed with her through the night, but at dawn, her condition suddenly worsened. I’m truly devastated.” Haru Urara’s enduring popularity highlights her ability to connect with people across generations, transcending the boundaries of horse racing to become a cultural icon.

Haru Urara’s story reminds us that even in the face of constant failure, perseverance and hope can create a legacy that endures far beyond our expectations. She will forever be remembered as a symbol of resilience and inspiration.