CygamesGentildonna, one of Japan’s most celebrated racehorses and beloved Umamusume: Pretty Derby character, has died at the age of 16.
Sunday Thoroughbred Club announced on November 26 that Gentildonna passed away at Northern Farm in Hokkaido on November 25. The date struck an emotional chord with fans, as it marked the anniversary of her first Japan Cup win in 2012. She later repeated the feat in 2013, becoming the first mare to win back-to-back Japan Cup titles.
Born in 2010, Gentildonna became one of Japan’s most iconic racehorses, collecting seven Grade 1 victories and multiple year-end awards. Fans affectionately nicknamed her “Gorilla” for her powerful stride and dominating presence on the track.
Gentildonna dies aged 16
While she retired in 2014, Gentildonna has several offspring, and her legacy is expected to continue through future generations.
Gentildonna also appears in the viral mobile game, Umamusume Pretty Derby, where her anime girl character is modeled after her real-world achievements. Cygames, the developers behind the popular racing sim, shared a tribute following the news.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share that Gentildonna passed away on November 25. The legendary racehorse’s legacy serves as the inspiration for the character of the same name in Umamusume: Pretty Derby. We share our condolences to all the staff involved in Gentildonna’s care.”
Gentildonna’s passing marks the third major loss for the Umamusume community this year, as Haru Urara, the beloved underdog icon, died at age 29 in September. Grass Wonder, another fan-favourite and a G1 winner from the late 1990s, also died at age 30 in August.