An era has ended with the passing of Haru Urara, Japan’s beloved racehorse, who died at the age of 29 on September 9, 2025. Known for her unwavering spirit, Haru Urara became a national symbol of perseverance, despite a career marked by persistent losing. Residing at Martha Farm in Onjuku, Chiba Prefecture, since 2013, she captured the hearts of a nation and, later, the world.
The Final Days
According to Yuko Miyahara, Haru Urara’s dedicated caretaker, the mare’s health took a sudden turn for the worse on September 8. A failure to defecate indicated a serious problem, prompting immediate veterinary intervention. Despite the around-the-clock care provided by veterinary professionals and the Martha Farm staff, Haru Urara’s condition rapidly declined. She passed away in the early hours of September 9, succumbing to the effects of colic.
Colic, a common and potentially fatal ailment in horses, arises from gas accumulation within the intestinal tract, causing intense abdominal discomfort. At 29 years old, Haru Urara had reached an advanced age for a horse, roughly equivalent to 90 human years, making her more vulnerable to such complications.
A Career of Unconventional Success
Born in 1996, Haru Urara began her racing career in 1998. Over the next six years, she participated in 113 races. She never experienced the thrill of victory. However, this unbroken string of defeats was the very thing that catapulted her to national fame in the early 2000s. She was affectionately nicknamed “the shining star of losers everywhere,” according to multiple news outlets including the Los Angeles Times and People.com.
Haru Urara’s story resonated deeply within Japanese society. In a culture that often emphasizes success and achievement, she represented the quiet dignity of perseverance. Her repeated losses transformed her into a symbol of resilience. Betting tickets bearing her name, ironically, became sought-after good-luck charms. The Japanese word “ataranai,” meaning “to lose a bet,” also carries the connotation of “to not be struck” by misfortune. Consequently, people carried these losing tickets as talismans to ward off traffic accidents and job loss.
Saving Kochi Racecourse
The impact of Haru Urara’s popularity extended beyond personal good fortune. Her widespread appeal played a crucial role in saving the Kochi Racecourse from potential bankruptcy. The surge in attendance and betting revenue generated by her races provided a much-needed financial lifeline for the struggling venue.
Global Recognition and Legacy
In recent years, Haru Urara experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity, fueled by her inspiration for a character in the globally popular mobile game and anime series “Umamusume: Pretty Derby.” This renewed attention brought a wave of new visitors, including international fans, to Martha Farm. Donations poured in to support her care, reflecting the deep affection she inspired.
Cygames, the developers of “Umamusume: Pretty Derby,” issued a statement expressing their condolences and acknowledging Haru Urara’s enduring legacy. Her story continues to inspire countless individuals. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing one’s journey, regardless of the outcome, and finding value in perseverance, even in the face of constant defeat.
Haru Urara: A Lasting Inspiration
Haru Urara’s life, though marked by a lack of victories on the racetrack, was ultimately a triumph of spirit. She transformed the meaning of losing, showing that perseverance and a positive attitude can create a legacy that transcends mere wins and losses. Her memory will continue to inspire, reminding us that true success lies not always in the outcome, but in the unwavering dedication to the journey.
