test

SARGA.CO – The Japanese horse racing community was left mourning on Sunday, 14 June 2026, after rising star My Universe died from acute heart failure following the Grade 1 Takarazuka Kinen at Hanshin Racecourse.

Racing under veteran jockey Norihiro Yokoyama, the sixth favourite travelled in midfield during the early stages of the 2,200-meter contest before beginning to lose ground approaching the third turn.

As the field continued around the final bend, My Universe was unable to continue. Yokoyama quickly dismounted, and the horse was withdrawn from the race. Following the event, the JRA announced that My Universe had died due to acute heart failure. 

The news cast a shadow over an otherwise memorable edition of the Takarazuka Kinen, won by Meisho Tabaru.

The defining victory of My Universe's career came in the G2 Nikkei Sho at Nakayama Racecourse on 28 March 2026, after he won the Wangan Stakes weeks prior.

Starting as the fourth favourite, he settled toward the rear of the field before unleashing a powerful finishing run down the outside to defeat Mikuni Inspire by 1 and a half lengths, with Rousham Park finishing third.

Not only did the victory secure his place for Japan's major staying races, like the G1 Spring Tenno Sho, but it also made jockey Norihiro Yokoyama the oldest jockey in JRA history to win a graded stakes race. 

Following his Nikkei Sho win, expectations surrounding My Universe continued to grow, and preparations for the Takarazuka Kinen suggested he was approaching the race in great condition.

During a key workout at the Ritto Training Center on 10 June, My Universe impressed observers with a strong solo gallop. Trainer Koshiro Take had expressed his satisfaction, noting that the horse had improved twofold since his last start.

"He completed the planned work exactly as intended. Both mentally and physically, he is easier to train than before his last race, and his condition has improved," Take said.

While My Universe never had the opportunity to add a G1 victory to his resume, his performances, pedigree and partnership with Yokoyama suggested a bright future lay ahead for him.

However, just weeks after putting himself on the map as one of Japan's top prospects, his journey came to an sudden and tragic end on the sport's biggest spring stage.

Though his career was short, the talented son of Rey de Oro and grandson of Neo Universe leaves behind memories of a strong competitor with great potential – especially to those who cared for, rode and supported him throughout.