Haru Urara, the Japanese racehorse who became a national and later global icon despite never winning a single race, has died at the age of 29 on September 9, 2025 in Matha Farm, Onjuku, Chiba, Japan, surrounded by staff members. According to officials at Martha Farm in Chiba Prefecture, the mare succumbed to colic, a common but often fatal digestive condition in horses.
The announcement sparked an outpouring of grief across Japan and abroad, particularly among fans of the mobile game Umamusume: Pretty Derby, in which a character inspired by Haru Urara became a fan favorite.
On social media, tributes poured in under the hashtag #ThankYouHaruUrara. One fan wrote:
“She never won a race, but she won our hearts. Rest in peace, Haru Urara.”
Another post read:
“A true symbol of perseverance. Even in defeat, she reminded us that life is about showing up, no matter the outcome.”
Racing officials in Japan also paid respects. A spokesperson from the Kochi Racecourse, where she spent most of her career, said:
“Haru Urara gave us more than victories. She gave us hope, smiles, and the courage to keep trying.”
Foaled on February 27, 1996, in Hokkaido, Haru Urara began racing in 1998. Over the next six years, she competed in 113 races without a single win. Instead of fading into obscurity, her losing streak made her a cultural sensation.
During the early 2000s, her races attracted packed crowds, and betting slips with her name were often purchased as good luck charms (omamori) rather than wagers. Newspapers dubbed her the “shining star of losers everywhere”, and she was even featured in a 2005 film that celebrated her perseverance.
After her retirement in 2004, Haru Urara lived peacefully at Martha Farm, where she became a beloved attraction for visitors. Her popularity surged again in 2021 when she was immortalized as a character in Umamusume, gaining global fame as anime fans rallied to support the real horse.
Haru Urara was bred in Hokkaido by Noboru Tanioka and sired by Nippo Teio. Despite her unremarkable bloodline and lack of racing success, her enduring spirit elevated her above pedigree and records. She became a symbol not only for racing fans but also for everyday people who saw in her story the resilience to keep moving forward despite setbacks.
As one fan poignantly wrote online:
“Champions may be remembered, but legends like Haru Urara are never forgotten.”
My name is Vijay Kumar. I work as content writer and founder of this website. I am studying BSC IT. I has been writing content since 2022. I also learn about journalism.