

SARGA.CO – Amid the thunder of hooves and the roar of applause, one stallion once captured attention not only for his speed but also for his unique expression—he seemed to smile in every race. This was Daitaku Helios, the legendary Japanese “Laughing Horse” or Warau Uma, who now returns as a lively character in the world of Uma Musume Pretty Derby.
Born on April 10, 1987, in Biratori, Hokkaido, Daitaku Helios was the offspring of Bizen Nishiki and Never Ichiban. He carried the blood of a true Japanese racehorse—bold, fast, and resilient. Raised in a disciplined environment and trained by veteran trainer Yasuo Umeda, Helios built an extraordinary racing career, particularly excelling in mile races, his specialty.
With his loyal jockey Shigehiko Kishi, Helios became known for his Nige style—a front-running strategy where he led the race right from the start. This earned him an “A” rank for the tactic in the Uma Musume game, along with the unlockable “Front Runner” skill for players.
But it wasn’t just his speed that won the hearts of the Japanese public. Helios had a rare and iconic habit: while running, he often lifted his head high and opened his mouth wide as if smiling or laughing. This signature style earned him the nickname Warau Uma—“The Laughing Horse.”
This unique trait became a defining charm and was faithfully carried over into his Uma Musume version. In the game, Helios appears cheerful, energetic, and always confident at the front of the pack—just as he was in real life.
Helios truly shone in the early 1990s. He scored consecutive victories in major races, including the Crystal Cup (G3), Yomiuri Milers’ Cup (G2) twice (1991 & 1992), the Takamatsunomiya Hai (G2) in 1991, and the Mainichi Okan (G2) in 1992, where he defeated the formidable Ikuno Dictus.
However, his most historic achievement came with back-to-back wins in the Mile Championship (G1) in 1991 and 1992. This made him one of the very few racehorses to claim consecutive victories in Japan’s most prestigious mile event.
His career totals: 35 races, 10 wins, and nearly 690 million yen (¥689,952,400) in earnings.
Legacy and Final Chapter
After retiring, Daitaku Helios stood as a stallion. Of his 289 offspring, only a handful achieved notable success, including Daitaku Yamato, the 2000 Sprinters Stakes (G1) winner.
Helios passed away peacefully on December 12, 2008, at the age of 22. Yet his legacy and spirit never truly faded.
Through Uma Musume Pretty Derby, Daitaku Helios is reborn in a brighter, more youthful form for fans. His in-game persona reflects his real-life character—optimistic, flamboyant, and never hesitant to lead the race from the front with his unforgettable smile.
Daitaku Helios is a reminder that racing is not only about winning, but also about the joy of the run.
On the fiercely competitive mile tracks, Daitaku Helios showed that being a star isn’t just about speed. He taught us that even in the toughest competition, there is room for expression, individuality, and playful spirit. Warau Uma is more than just a horse—he is an icon, a legend, and now, a new idol in the Uma Musume universe.
(Sources: FB Atha ID, Wikipedia (JP), Uma Musume Wiki Fandom, JBIS, Netkeiba & Gametora)
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