Rest in peace, Tsuyoshi. You were strong until the very end. Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi has reportedly passed away on August 2, 2026 at the old age of 31. He was one of the last living members of the golden generation featured in umamusume, and a son of Symboli Rudolf. He was a strong racehorse with lots of talent but had to take many breaks from racing because of his weak body. Tsuyoshi debuted in 1998 and went on to win two graded races back to back, most notably the G2 Kyoto Daishoten where he beat strong opponents such as Mejiro Bright, Special Week, Stay Gold, and T.M. Opera O. Even without any G1 victories, he was still voted into the 1999 Arima Kinen and placed 4th. During his last run, the 2000 Arima Kinen, he was pulled out due to a ligament injury and retired. It is said Tsuyoshi had a very gentle personality and was loved by many. Because of this, he was able to retire as a merit horse at a private ranch where he lived out the rest of his life. Honestly I really like Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi's depiction in umamusume. She's very silly especially in the umayuru episodes and I loved her in the main story. Also the reason she may be referred to as "Bocchi the horse" is because she shares the same voice actor. I was worried less popular umas would be forgotten but I hope Tsuyoshi and his story will forever be known.
We lost another legend. May he run and play again. Working on the piece Music is PLAY AGAIN from Umamusume: Pretty Derby (Tsurumaru Tsuyoshi's solo song)
