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Uma Musume

10 Legendary Racehorses That Inspired Uma Musume: Pretty Derby Characters (Part 2)

asianracingreport.com

SARGA.CO – From the racetrack to the world of anime, the stories of Japan's legendary racehorses come alive through the energetic and charming girls of Uma Musume: Pretty Derby. This game is much more than a typical horse racing simulation — it's a creative tribute to the history of Japanese racehorses, brought to life with a vibrant anime twist that has captivated both gamers and fans of Japanese pop culture
 

Released globally in mid-2025, Uma Musume: Pretty Derby features female characters who personify real-life racehorses. With its cute visual style and spirited storylines, the game also serves as an educational gateway to the world of horse racing — a world many young people may not yet be familiar with.
 

Uma Musume
Uma Musume

Here are 6 of the 10 legendary racehorses that inspired Uma Musume characters — and why they’re so beloved both in real life and in the game:

6. Mejiro McQueen – The Long-Distance Princess

Mejiro McQueen represents elegance and endurance. In real life, she was a long-distance race specialist with extraordinary stamina and hailed from the prestigious Mejiro racing family in Japan.

6. Mejiro McQueen – The Long-Distance Princess
Wikipedia

In Uma Musume, Mejiro McQueen exudes noble charm: calm, perfectionist, and full of pride. Yet behind her cool and serious exterior lies a gentle heart that deeply cares for her friends. She’s a perfect example of how grace and strength can go hand in hand.
 

7. T.M. Opera O – The Stylish King

At the peak of his career, T.M. Opera O reigned supreme. He held an unbeaten record in Japan and once swept all major titles, including the coveted Triple Crown. It’s no wonder he’s considered one of the most dominant racehorses of his time.

7. T.M. Opera O – The Stylish King

In the game, he’s portrayed as flamboyant and narcissistic, constantly declaring himself "the greatest, the most beautiful, and the most brilliant." His confidence isn’t unfounded — the real-life horse truly had the talent to back it all up. Dramatic yet legendary.
 

T.M. Opera O

8. Rice Shower – The Underdog Hero

Rice Shower won fans' hearts most unexpectedly. Known as the “spoiler,” he often disrupted the victories of race favorites in major competitions — and that’s exactly why he’s remembered. He proved you don’t have to be the champion to be loved.

8. Rice Shower – The Underdog Hero

In Uma Musume, Rice Shower is depicted as quiet and self-doubting, a girl who simply wants to run freely. But the world often misunderstands her. She’s a symbol for those who may not be perfect, yet still give their all in life’s race.
 

Rice Shower

9. Narita Brian – The Lone Wolf

Narita Brian is a true legend. A Triple Crown winner from the 1990s, he was renowned for delivering outstanding performances under intense pressure. He wasn’t just fast — he was mentally tough.

9. Narita Brian – The Lone Wolf

In the game, Narita Brian is the classic “lone wolf” — quiet, cold, and intensely focused. He rarely speaks, but when she hits the track, no one can ignore her. She embodies quiet strength and fierce ambition.
 

Narita Brian

10. Haru Urara – The People's Sweetheart

Unlike the others, Haru Urara is famous not for winning — but for never winning. This horse raced dozens of times and never claimed victory. Yet that’s precisely what made her legendary: she became a symbol of hope for the Japanese people during tough times.

10. Haru Urara – The People's Sweetheart

In Uma Musume, Haru Urara is cheerful, energetic, and never gives up, even when the results aren’t pretty. She teaches that the courage to keep trying matters far more than winning. Her character is proof that not all heroes need to win to be inspiring.
 

Haru Urara
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