Umamusume: Pretty Derby pays tribute to most tragic racehorse ever

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In the world of Umamusume: Pretty Derby, the players are growing fond of Silence Suzuka, a swift and gentle horse girl who mirrors one of Japan’s cherished thoroughbreds. Beneath her warm disposition, though, lies a sorrowful past that may leave you both teary-eyed and inspired, as in actuality, her tale did not have a happy ending.

Among the three horses – Hara Urara, Gold Ship, and Silence Suzuka – it’s the heart-wrenching tale of Silence Suzuka that stands out as the greatest tragedy. Despite neither winning a race nor causing massive financial losses like Gold Ship did, Silence Suzuka holds a unique position due to its poignant past.

Similarly to his video game persona, the genuine Silence Suzuka swiftly garnered attention from both fans and critics. In 1998, he made history by winning six consecutive races, a feat that left others struggling to keep up with his extraordinary speed.

Yet, this scenario would dramatically shift when, on November 1, 1998, he participated in the highly respected Tenno Sho race. Contrary to predictions, Silence Suzuka was anticipated to win with odds of 6:5 stacked in his favor, which makes what followed even more disheartening.

Silence Suzuka is Japan’s most tragic horse

Regrettably, though he initially led, a disastrous leg break occurred halfway through the competition, leaving him incapable of rising up. Ultimately, with no chance of recovery, Silence Suzuka was put down on the track in full view of the spectators who had been eagerly anticipating his triumph.

The unexpected demise of this racehorse left an indelible mark on Japanese horse racing, and today, Silence Suzuka serves as a poignant symbol of speed, vulnerability, and untapped promise in the anime Umamasume: Pretty Derby.

In the animated series and comic book versions, Silence Suzuka plays the lead role as a composed, resolute character who moves with exceptional speed and possesses a tranquil, almost celestial persona. However, unlike her actual counterpart, the animated Suzuka is granted a redo of sorts.

In the animated world, trainee players can now help Silence Suzuka win the Tenno Sho, a feat that her real-life counterpart was unable to accomplish in reality. The series also includes a storyline where Suzuka endures a prolonged rehabilitation period with assistance from her friends, ultimately returning to racing.

As a passionate admirer, I can’t help but express my profound affection for Suzuka, a character who masterfully combines the essence of real-life heritage with captivating alternate history. This unique blend is one of the primary reasons why Umamusume: Pretty Derby resonates so deeply with me and fans worldwide.

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2025-07-07 13:48