Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi, the racehorse that served as the inspiration for the Umamusume: Pretty Derby character, passed away on August 2. At the time of his death, the former racehorse was 31 years old.
Shigeo Nakanishi, a member of the Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi Association, announced the news on the organization’s website. Although the official cause of death was not disclosed, Nakanishi-san noted that Tsurumaru was discovered lying in his pasture and was unable to rise. A veterinarian was called to the scene, but when treatment was unsuccessful, the horse was euthanized on the farm.
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Both the Japanese and English Umamusume accounts paid homage to the departed horse.
The real horse was born on April 6, 1995, at Symboli Farm, the offspring of Symboli Rudolf and Sweet Cielo. Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi is recognized as part of Japan’s Golden Generation, a designation for horses born in 1995 and active in 1998. Notable achievements in his career include victories in the Grade 3 Asashi Challenge Cup and the Grade 2 Kyoto Daishoten, where he triumphed over illustrious competitors like Special Week and T.M. Opera O. His official race record comprises 5 wins out of 11 races.
Tsurumaru was retired from racing due to a weak constitution, a diagnosis of osteochondroma, and a ruptured suspensory ligament in his left front leg.
Following his retirement, Tsurumaru acted as a lead horse for several years, but his existing health issues eventually necessitated his withdrawal from that role. The Umamusume: Pretty Derby series reflects Tsurumaru’s health struggles by assigning similar issues to the character inspired by him in the game. Yoshino Aoyama provided the voice for Tsurumaru in the Umamusume: Pretty Derby franchise.
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Left to right: character raceware art, uniform art and concept art
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Source: Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi Association Website
© Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi Association
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