Renowned Japanese Racehorse Gentildonna Passes Away at 16

Gentildonna, a celebrated figure in Japanese horse racing, has passed away peacefully at the age of 16 on November 25, 2025. Her death marks the end of an era for the sport, as she was one of the most accomplished mares in its history. Known for her remarkable achievements, she inspired a character in the popular mobile game, Umamusume: Pretty Derby.

Born on February 20, 2009, at Northern Farm in Japan, Gentildonna made history by becoming the fourth mare to win the Fillies’ Triple Tiara in 2012, clinching victories in the Oka Sho, Japanese Oaks, and Shuka Sho. She further etched her name in racing lore as the first three-year-old filly to win the prestigious Japan Cup in 2012 and followed that success with another victory in the same event in 2013.

Over her racing career from 2011 to 2014, Gentildonna participated in 19 races, achieving an impressive record of 10 wins, 4 seconds, and 1 third. Her performance earned her ¥1.33 billion (approximately $8.5 million) in earnings and the title of Japanese Horse of the Year in both 2012 and 2014. She concluded her racing career with a triumphant win at the 2014 Arima Kinen.

Legacy and Impact

After retiring from racing, Gentildonna transitioned to a role as a broodmare at Northern Farm in Hokkaido. She produced several successful offspring, including Geraldina, who won the 2022 Queen Elizabeth II Cup. Her lineage is rooted in excellence, being the daughter of the legendary stallion Deep Impact and the British mare Donna Blini.

The announcement of her peaceful passing was made by the Sunday Thoroughbred Club, with condolences expressed by Cygames, the developer of Umamusume: Pretty Derby, where she was honored as a character in 2024. Her death adds to the sorrow in Japanese racing, as she becomes the third iconic racehorse associated with the Umamusume franchise to pass away in 2025, following Grass Wonder and Haru Urara.

Reports surrounding her death indicate that she died peacefully, although some sources suggest that an injury sustained from kicking a concrete wall in her stall may have contributed to her passing.

Gentildonna’s legacy remains influential, inspiring racing enthusiasts and gamers alike. Her remarkable career and the spirit she embodied continue to resonate within the community, ensuring that her memory will endure through both the sport and the gaming franchise that celebrated her life and achievements.