Grass Wonder: The Legendary Horse Behind Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Grass Wonder, a remarkable Thoroughbred racehorse, captured the hearts of many before his recent passing on August 8, 2023, at the impressive age of 30. This American-bred, Japanese-trained equine legend is best known as the inspiration for the character in the popular multimedia franchise, Umamusume: Pretty Derby. The news of his death was shared via the official social media account for the franchise, marking the end of an era for fans and admirers alike.
Grass Wonder was born on February 18, 1995, and his illustrious racing career spanned from 1997 to 2000. Over the course of 15 races, he achieved an impressive record, winning nine of those starts, including four prestigious Grade 1 titles. Grass Wonder made a memorable debut as a two-year-old in 1997, remaining unbeaten throughout the season. His early achievements culminated in a stunning victory at the Asahi Hai Sansai Stakes, a significant milestone in his career.
Unfortunately, his second season was marred by an injury that sidelined him for a considerable period. However, in autumn, he made a triumphant return to the racetrack, securing a victory in the renowned Arima Kinen. Grass Wonder reached the pinnacle of his career at the age of four, showcasing his exceptional talent by winning both the Takarazuka Kinen and a second Arima Kinen. Despite his previous successes, Grass Wonder faced challenges during his final racing season in 2000, failing to win any of his three starts. Subsequently, he retired from racing and transitioned to a stud career.
In the days leading up to his passing, Rena Maeda, the talented Japanese voice actress who brings the character inspired by Grass Wonder to life in Umamusume, took to social media to share heartfelt memories of the iconic racehorse. Just a day before his death, she posted nostalgic photos, reminiscing about her visit to see Grass Wonder in Hokkaido back in 2018. In her post, she fondly recalled how Grass Wonder enjoyed munching on grass amidst the stunning natural landscape, with dandelions being his favorite treat, which he devoured quickly.
Rena’s emotional tribute continued as she expressed her gratitude for Grass Wonder’s long life and the legacy he leaves behind. She stated, “My encounter with him has brought such vibrant color to the path of my life. Thank you so much for living a long life. Thank you so much for leaving behind such a wonderful bloodline. I will continue to follow your image from here on. Please, always and forever, spend your days peacefully in a beautiful place.” Her heartfelt words resonate deeply with fans who appreciate the bond between the horse and those who admire him.
The Umamusume: Pretty Derby franchise, which gained immense popularity, launched its mobile game for iOS and Android on February 24, 2021, followed by a PC release on March 10, 2021. In addition to the mobile game, the franchise boasts a TV anime series and a short-form anime titled Umayon. The ongoing appeal of Umamusume: Pretty Derby is further enhanced by a web anime project, Umamusume Pretty Derby: Road to the Top, which aired four episodes in October 2022. The third season of the main TV anime concluded in 2023, with Crunchyroll streaming the beloved series.
The captivating narrative of Umamusume: Pretty Derby immerses viewers in a world where "horse girls," endowed with illustrious names and extraordinary running capabilities, coexist with humans. The story follows Special Week, a horse girl who moves from a rural area to the city to enroll in Tracen Academy. There, she and her classmates vie for the prestigious title of "The County’s #1 Horse Girl" by competing in the Twinkle Series.
Grass Wonder’s influence extends beyond just his achievements on the racetrack. His legacy is intertwined with the vibrant characters of the Umamusume franchise, where his spirit continues to live on through the stories told and the admiration expressed by fans. The franchise effectively marries the world of horse racing with elements of fantasy, allowing audiences to connect with the essence of these remarkable equines, portraying them as more than just racehorses but as beloved characters with dreams and aspirations.
The ongoing spinoff series, Umamusume: Cinderella Gray, adds another layer to the franchise’s rich tapestry, drawing in viewers with its engaging storylines and character development. With Cour 2 set to premiere in October, fans eagerly anticipate more adventures featuring their favorite horse girls.
Grass Wonder’s contributions to both the racing world and the realm of entertainment will be remembered fondly. His story is not just one of victories and accolades; it is also about the lasting impact he had on those who loved him and the legacy he created. Racing enthusiasts and fans of the Umamusume franchise alike will continue to celebrate his life and achievements, ensuring that Grass Wonder remains a cherished figure in both equestrian history and popular culture.
As the franchise continues to grow and evolve, the memory of Grass Wonder will serve as a poignant reminder of the deep connections formed between humans and horses. His journey from the racetrack to becoming a beloved character in Umamusume: Pretty Derby exemplifies how the world of horse racing can inspire stories that resonate with audiences across generations.
In conclusion, Grass Wonder’s legacy is firmly entrenched in the hearts of many. His life, filled with remarkable achievements and a profound connection to fans, ensures that he will not be forgotten. The vibrant world of Umamusume: Pretty Derby will continue to thrive, drawing inspiration from the extraordinary horse that inspired its creation. Grass Wonder’s spirit will forever gallop alongside the horse girls, inspiring new generations to appreciate the beauty and grace of these magnificent creatures.
