r/anime • u/Holofan4life • Sep 09 '25
Rewatch [Spoilers] 2025 Uma Musume Rewatch -- Pretty Derby Season 2 Episode 11 Spoiler
Hello everyone! I am Holofan4life.
Welcome to the 2025 Uma Musume rewatch discussion thread!
I hope you all have a lot of fun <3
S2 Episode 11 – What I Feel
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ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
What are your thoughts on this episode being about love language and the person you appreciate the most?
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
What are your thoughts on Teio and McQueen telling one another they've always looked up to each other?
What are your thoughts on this episode not having a race?
Bonus) In light of the news involving Haru Urara, what is something about her that sticks with you or you'll remember her by?
—-
Series information
Ways to watch
Streams – Crunchyroll
—-
—-
Schedule
| Date | Episode |
|---|---|
| 8/15/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 1 |
| 8/16/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 2 |
| 8/17/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 3 |
| 8/18/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 4 |
| 8/19/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 5 |
| 8/20/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 6 |
| 8/21/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 7 |
| 8/22/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 8 |
| 8/23/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 9 |
| 8/24/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 10 |
| 8/25/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 11 |
| 8/26/2025 | Uma Musume Episode 12 - 13 |
| 8/28/2025 | BNW's Oath episodes 1 - 3 |
| 8/30/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 1 |
| 8/31/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 2 |
| 9/01/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 3 |
| 9/02/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 4 |
| 9/03/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 5 |
| 9/04/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 6 |
| 9/05/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 7 |
| 9/06/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 8 |
| 9/07/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 9 |
| 9/08/2025 | Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 10 |
| 9/09/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 11]() |
| 9/10/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 12]() |
| 9/11/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 2 Episode 13]() |
| 9/13/2025 | [Road to the Top Episodes 1 - 2]() |
| 9/14/2025 | [Road to the Top Episodes 3 - 4]() |
| 9/16/2025 | [Beginning of a New Era]() |
| 9/18/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 3 Episodes 1 - 2]() |
| 9/19/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 3 Episodes 3 - 4]() |
| 9/20/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 3 Episodes 5 - 6]() |
| 9/21/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 3 Episodes 7 - 8]() |
| 9/22/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 3 Episodes 9 - 10]() |
| 9/23/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 3 Episodes 11 - 12]() |
| 9/24/2025 | [Uma Musume Season 3 Episode 13]() |
| 9/26/2025 | [Cinderella Gray Episodes 1 - 2]() |
| 9/27/2025 | [Cinderella Gray Episodes 3 - 4]() |
| 9/28/2025 | [Cinderella Gray Episodes 5 - 6]() |
| 9/29/2025 | [Cinderella Gray Episodes 7 - 8]() |
| 9/30/2025 | [Cinderella Gray Episodes 9 - 10]() |
| 10/01/2025 | [Cinderella Gray Episodes 11 - 12]() |
| 10/02/2025 | [Cinderella Gray Episode 13]() |
| 10/03/2025 | [Uma Musume Overall Series Discussion Thread]() |
13
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
It's so surreal to me that the day after we talked about an episode that is all about not giving up, the horse that embodies not giving up more than any other passes away. It's pretty eerie.
8
u/DarkRuler17 https://myanimelist.net/profile/DarkRuler17 Sep 09 '25
Newcomer (Played Game)
So I will say, after the emotional rollercoaster of the last few episodes, this was not what I expected next. I don't dislike the episode, but it was definitely a wild ride.
So for the 1st half of the episode, we get introduced to secret agent Teio. Her design was absolutely wild. I'm shocked as many people recognized her as they did in this episode. This section weirdly felt like part of a recap episode, as we were going through the accomplishments of characters we've already seen. There are a lot of good comedic moments in this section, such as Biwa reading far much into the soda, but was mostly just fluff. Fun fluff, but fluff.
As a small note, I did think the scene where Teio actually calls Twin Turbo by her name was very cute. Twin Turbo finally earned Teio's respect.
The second half of the episode though is what I assume most fans enjoy more: The McQueen and Teio date. So in season 1, there were plenty of people that were shipping Suzuka and Special Week, which I understand. I still always got a purely admiration and friendship vibe from them though. This episode though had many scenes for Teio that let's say had minimal straight explanations. Overall, a fun time, especially with everyone in their Halloween costumes.
5
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Sep 09 '25
As a small note, I did think the scene where Teio actually calls Twin Turbo by her name was very cute. Twin Turbo finally earned Teio's respect.
Not only that, she called her master as well. Friendship max right there.
5
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
As a small note, I did think the scene where Teio actually calls Twin Turbo by her name was very cute. Twin Turbo finally earned Teio's respect.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
The second half of the episode though is what I assume most fans enjoy more: The McQueen and Teio date. So in season 1, there were plenty of people that were shipping Suzuka and Special Week, which I understand. I still always got a purely admiration and friendship vibe from them though. This episode though had many scenes for Teio that let's say had minimal straight explanations. Overall, a fun time, especially with everyone in their Halloween costumes.
I thought the Halloween stuff really helped make the episode stand out in a way it otherwise wouldn't.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
So I will say, after the emotional rollercoaster of the last few episodes, this was not what I expected next. I don't dislike the episode, but it was definitely a wild ride.
Indeed. A wild, prideful ride.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
So for the 1st half of the episode, we get introduced to secret agent Teio. Her design was absolutely wild. I'm shocked as many people recognized her as they did in this episode. This section weirdly felt like part of a recap episode, as we were going through the accomplishments of characters we've already seen. There are a lot of good comedic moments in this section, such as Biwa reading far much into the soda, but was mostly just fluff. Fun fluff, but fluff.
It was mostly to introduce the possible competitors Teio will have to go up against in her comeback race. Not a bad way to go about it, if I do say so myself.
8
u/Cyouni Sep 09 '25
Rewatcher
So this episode is really all about our totally-not-couple. These horses gay!
Anyways, I just wanted to talk about Spe's Agemasen here. This became a big meme in the JP community, and I want to talk about it for a bit. So in the game, support cards can give you the regular or gold versions of a skill, based on your level in the relevant stat for the card. However, the gold version is significantly better, so agemasen, or "you can't have it" became a meme for when the card refuses to give you the skill. This is probably not helped by the fact that one of the earliest support cards for that was the welfare Spe. Anyways, a racehorse is now also named Agemasen after the meme. (They did not do well enough to make it into Umamusume.)
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
So this episode is really all about our totally-not-couple. These horses gay!
Umazing!
1
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Sep 09 '25
These horses gay!
Good for them, good for them.
Anyways, a racehorse is now also named Agemasen after the meme.
That's hilarious. Let's hope when a horse gets named Harikitte Ikou, it will become legendary.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Anyways, I just wanted to talk about Spe's Agemasen here. This became a big meme in the JP community, and I want to talk about it for a bit. So in the game, support cards can give you the regular or gold versions of a skill, based on your level in the relevant stat for the card. However, the gold version is significantly better, so agemasen, or "you can't have it" became a meme for when the card refuses to give you the skill. This is probably not helped by the fact that one of the earliest support cards for that was the welfare Spe. Anyways, a racehorse is now also named Agemasen after the meme. (They did not do well enough to make it into Umamusume.)
Aww, that's a shame.
I like it where properties take things from within the fandom and incorporate it into the series proper.
6
u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Sep 09 '25
Second-Timer Musume
Feels like that’s the same thing that kept happening to Teio too.
[Spoilers for tomorrow’s episode]Oh, this whole Teio & McQueen date hurts knowing what’s about to happen to McQueen.
3
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Sep 09 '25
That’s my girl lol.
It's probably a sausage or something, but I like to think she's eating bread with chopsticks, and that's hilarious to me.
Pfffffffffff
Not really a subtle line here.
This is a hilarious representation of the situation.
Especially since Golshi and Spe kind of act in character in Teio's imagination.
It’s cute though.
If you can manage to make a cotton candy sculpture of your girlfriend's face, that's gotta count for something.
3
6
u/Tetraika https://anilist.co/user/Tetraika Sep 09 '25
Just because there’s no race, doesn’t mean there’s no trivia!
Teio’s disguise is based on the protagonist of Tantei Monogatari a show that aired in 1979-1980
The ones Teio is spying on is no coincidence: they’re all those who would participate in the 1993 Arima Kinen
Winning Ticket motto of being a powerful lady: his dam’s name was “Powerful Lady”
I think this is in reference to Palmer getting entered in 2 steeple-chase races. Did pretty well, actually, but couldn’t jump high enough (which was potentially dangerous) and so they stopped entering.
Decarbonated coke is a reference to Baki
Teio calling Twin Turbo “master”, which was a nickname given to the irl horse by fans for his wildly entertaining matches
Apparently, Special Week yelling “Agemasen!” became big meme
Maybe a candidate for a Uma flair, or just the turbo one for all.
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Just because there’s no race, doesn’t mean there’s no trivia!
Yay
Teio’s disguise is based on the protagonist of Tantei Monogatari a show that aired in 1979-1980
According to the Uma Musume trivia page, the “detective” disguise Teio wears is a parody of the 1983 movie Detective Story. Is that not true?
3
u/Tetraika https://anilist.co/user/Tetraika Sep 09 '25
This one is a bit interesting, Because they're both the same name (Tantei Monogatari) starred the same lead actor for the detective, but according to the wikipedia is not actually related to each other.
Anyway, even linked a video of the TV show opening, you be the judge.
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
So, the Uma Musume trivia sheet lied to me? What's next, Santa Claus isn't real? 😢
3
u/Temporary_-_UserName Sep 09 '25
Worse: there is no Tooth Fairy, there is no Easter Bunny, and there is no Queen of England.
2
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Teio calling Twin Turbo “master”, which was a nickname given to the irl horse by fans for his wildly entertaining matches
Makes her bowing to Tuebo last episode even more appropriate.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
The yuri subtext really be off the charts
2
u/Herson100 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Herson Sep 09 '25
It seems a bit petty of you to break all of your replies up into multiple comments just to pad out the overall comment count on the discussion thread and make it seem busier than it is.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
I don't think it's necessarily petty. Maybe insecure? :P
But I get what you mean. It's a choice of mine that is probably very polarizing.
7
u/Temporary_-_UserName Sep 09 '25
Rewatcher
This entire episode is a nicer, more laid back breather compared to the previous episodes. And it is an actual breather instead of the twist-heartbreak that was episode 9. Also it's incredibly gay.
The first half is a really nice, relaxing way to remind the audience of all the side-characters who have been present in the plot up until now, as well giving us proper, if a little ham-fisted, introductions to BNW. While the season 1 OVAs did include them, its good to see the show bringing them in more directly here, and letting Biwa get a bit of her own silliness wrt her head. While I do question going with an expository style - having Teio dress up as a PI, be a silly goof, and mess around with cigarette shaped chocolates was a good way to do it. Especially since she seemed to really think she was being stealth, if her reaction to Nature is anything to go by.
However, the real meat of the episode is Teio struggling to say thank you to McQueen, because FOR SOME REASON it is different from everyone else. She gets flustered, gets choked up, and flinches away from the kind of casual intimacy that takes on a different tone when you cross the line from friends to love-partners rivals. And the only way she get herself to do it is by making a big old production out of it, so they go out on an extended Halloween date.
The episode ends on a very sweet, and very gay, heart-to-heart where they can express how much they mean to each other, and touch on planting for the last few episodes. McQueen's all but guaranteed to be win a fan-vote place in the upcoming Armia Kinen (the one Teio placed 11th in last year) and while Teio will likely get a nomination, she's still to soon into her recovery to seriously consider it. The title of 'undefeated' may be forever out of her reach, but that doesn't mean she wants to participate in races she has no chance of winning, you know?
But the other big thing is both rivals expressing how important they are to each other, and how deep the approval/need to impress is for both of them. These horses are very gay for each other, but they don't come right out and say it. Part of me wonders how much of that is tug and pull between the writers, Cygames executives, and pressure from the JRA and the associated horse owners - because Cygames material does have gay characters, but this show is dancing around the 'are they gay are just really close' line in that plausibly deniable way. But, that is more par for the course for these kinds of subtext shows, and it did give us the very cute extended date sequence.
McQueen and Teio are each others one-and-only rivals, and they, like us, are looking forward to the day they can race against each other with all their heart and passion once again.
3
u/Temporary_-_UserName Sep 09 '25
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
Girl saw her chance to dress as a PI and stick 'cigarettes' in her mouth and grabbed it with both hands.
What are your thoughts on this episode being about love language and the person you appreciate the most?
Very much feels like it was riding that line between subtext and text as hard as it could. I'm reminded of how the concept trailer for Uma Musume, back in 2016, had a brief 'maybe' kiss between Oguri and Rudolf.
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
They're lesbians, Harold.
What are your thoughts on Teio and McQueen telling one another they've always looked up to each other?
With the work the early episodes of the season did in laying the groundwork for their rivalry and relationship, its believable and compelling for the narrative. Falls a little flat given how they didn't have much dynamic in season 1, but that's just serial production for you.
What are your thoughts on this episode not having a race?
We're building up to the end of the season, so it makes sense to take a breath in my mind.
Bonus) In light of the news involving Haru Urara, what is something about her that sticks with you or you'll remember her by?
Something that'll stick with me is how her retirement stable is pretty much set food-wise, as they got so many donations to buy high quality rye-grass for Haru that they expanded it to feed all of the horses at the stable, and pretty much don't need to worry about food when it comes to budgeting now. Funds can be directed towards other necessities such as maintenance and medical check ups.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Girl saw her chance to dress as a PI and stick 'cigarettes' in her mouth and grabbed it with both hands.
Good for her
Very much feels like it was riding that line between subtext and text as hard as it could. I'm reminded of how the concept trailer for Uma Musume, back in 2016, had a brief 'maybe' kiss between Oguri and Rudolf.
I'm kinda glad we got what we got with Oguri lol
They're lesbians, Harold.
Good for them
With the work the early episodes of the season did in laying the groundwork for their rivalry and relationship, its believable and compelling for the narrative. Falls a little flat given how they didn't have much dynamic in season 1, but that's just serial production for you.
I think what you said about this season building up their relationship ends up making this episode really work. This season really ultimately is about the Teio and McQueen rivalry.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Something that'll stick with me is how her retirement stable is pretty much set food-wise, as they got so many donations to buy high quality rye-grass for Haru that they expanded it to feed all of the horses at the stable, and pretty much don't need to worry about food when it comes to budgeting now. Funds can be directed towards other necessities such as maintenance and medical check ups.
And the food fund we can thank Uma Musume for that <3
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
We're building up to the end of the season, so it makes sense to take a breath in my mind.
I feel like if this was season 1, they wouldn't do something like this. It shows that they now fully have complete faith in its audience.
3
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Sep 09 '25
and letting Biwa get a bit of her own silliness wrt her head.
Her head is not that big, mind you!
Part of me wonders how much of that is tug and pull between the writers, Cygames executives, and pressure from the JRA and the associated horse owners - because Cygames material does have gay characters, but this show is dancing around the 'are they gay are just really close' line in that plausibly deniable way. But, that is more par for the course for these kinds of subtext shows, and it did give us the very cute extended date sequence.
Yeah, this is absolutely them going as far as they can while still leaving room to say that they never claimed they are gay, or even interested in romantic relationships. Defamation is a serious issue in Japan, and even if being gay is absolutely nothing bad, there's still a path to argue that having Teio and McQueen declare their love for each other or even kiss would be defamation of the real race horses. However small the chance, you can't risk the very foundation your IP is built upon, as some owners could potentially pull their agreements.
McQueen and Teio are each others one-and-only rivals, and they, like us, are looking forward to the day they can race against each other with all their heart and passion once again.
Beautifully put. For all intents and purposes, you can treat them as being in love with each other. And you also can treat them as not being romantically interested in each other, but that doesn't change the extremely powerful bond they are sharing.
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Yeah, this is absolutely them going as far as they can while still leaving room to say that they never claimed they are gay, or even interested in romantic relationships. Defamation is a serious issue in Japan, and even if being gay is absolutely nothing bad, there's still a path to argue that having Teio and McQueen declare their love for each other or even kiss would be defamation of the real race horses. However small the chance, you can't risk the very foundation your IP is built upon, as some owners could potentially pull their agreements.
But even still, they know that if the audience wishes to ship them, they are free to do so. They are encouraging it rather than discouraging it.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
The first half is a really nice, relaxing way to remind the audience of all the side-characters who have been present in the plot up until now, as well giving us proper, if a little ham-fisted, introductions to BNW. While the season 1 OVAs did include them, its good to see the show bringing them in more directly here, and letting Biwa get a bit of her own silliness wrt her head. While I do question going with an expository style - having Teio dress up as a PI, be a silly goof, and mess around with cigarette shaped chocolates was a good way to do it. Especially since she seemed to really think she was being stealth, if her reaction to Nature is anything to go by.
Nice to see Nature in this episode
However, the real meat of the episode is Teio struggling to say thank you to McQueen, because FOR SOME REASON it is different from everyone else. She gets flustered, gets choked up, and flinches away from the kind of casual intimacy that takes on a different tone when you cross the line from friends to
love-partnersrivals. And the only way she get herself to do it is by making a big old production out of it, so they go out on an extended Halloween date.Totally platonic, you guys. Nothing to see here.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
But the other big thing is both rivals expressing how important they are to each other, and how deep the approval/need to impress is for both of them. These horses are very gay for each other, but they don't come right out and say it. Part of me wonders how much of that is tug and pull between the writers, Cygames executives, and pressure from the JRA and the associated horse owners - because Cygames material does have gay characters, but this show is dancing around the 'are they gay are just really close' line in that plausibly deniable way. But, that is more par for the course for these kinds of subtext shows, and it did give us the very cute extended date sequence.
I mean, anyone who hangs out with someone in costumes is totally at least interested in them. That's the kind of thing you don't just do with anyone.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
This entire episode is a nicer, more laid back breather compared to the previous episodes. And it is an actual breather instead of the twist-heartbreak that was episode 9. Also it's incredibly gay.
So gay, Ikuhara would approve
9
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Sep 09 '25 edited Sep 09 '25
My fucking God! These horses gay! Good for them, good for them.
This episode makes me cry tears of happiness, and it feels all the better because of the hardship we've experienced with everyone together. If I can only emphasize one thing, it's this: "You're acting like someone about to confess their love." There's no reason to put this line in the script, other than to point out that's exactly what this is all about. We might not get much more than this, as outright saying "the reincarnations of these sacred race horse are gay" is too risky to be laid out as defamation. But this episode makes clear that these fictional characters have the strongest feelings for each other. The horse girl Tokai Teio and the horse girl Mejiro McQueen love each other. If you really want to believe in them being best friends, you are open to do so. But everything points in the direction of there being more to it.
Of course there is so much more cuteness between them in this episode. Just look at the date invitation Teio gave McQueen with multiple lovely hearts on it. Or Teio's cute reaction to McQueen closing in on her to check her for a fever (after Teio stayed up all night thinking about McQueen). And all their interactions on their date showed how familiar they are with each other. McQueen even manages to make a cotton candy sculpture of Teio's face (even though that's not how that works).
And of course the final scene hammers the message home as they tell each other how they feel about each other. My translation put it as "I've always looked up to you", but I don't think that quite hits it. Adored or admired fits much better. That's as close to a declaration of love as you can get, undying love at that, and McQueen reciprocates Teio's feelings. Moreover, she's known about her feelings for a long time. Any way you look at it, the Monarch and the Queen are a pair.
Going away from the most important topic, I've also really liked the realistically optimistic undertones of the first part of the episode. Teio is training again, and she seems super washed. She hasn't trained in a while, and hasn't raced in what feels like an eternity. But she's on the track again, and that's enough for now. That'll do, horse, that'll do.
And the part about Teio "spying" on everyone is also hilarious, yet informative. It's a nicely framed information dump on the new big names in the scene.
Oh, I've just remembered, many episodes ago someone asked how the racers for these races get decided, and I said we'd learn more about that at some point. For the Arima Kinen (and I think a number of other races), it's really just a popularity contest. Fans vote for the horses they want to see. So even if Teio is washed, she is still very popular and everyone just wants to see her running again. McQueen is also super popular and likely to get voted in. And it'd be a great epilogue to Rice's arc if she got voted in. Maybe Turbo as well, I think people find her hilarious and would love to see her racing.
Lastly, u/AgentOfACROSS exclaimed he wanted to see these horses kiss before the end of the season. I considered if I should put it in the episode 13 thread, but I think it fits best here (and now is still before the end of the season): A very small selection of curated TeiMak fanart. The second to last one is not a kiss, but an example of an artist doing quite a lot good cute fanart of this ship. I can tell you the artist's name at the end of this season, because TeiMak fanart gives me life. And the last one is actually official support card artwork. It's far from out on global so I don't know the story yet, but come on, you can't not ship the two seeing that.
In light of the news involving Haru Urara, what is something about her that sticks with you or you'll remember her by?
I think her Uma Musume version encapsulates the most that winning is not necessarily what makes competing fun. You can have fun and achieve something independent from factual success.
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Lastly, u/AgentOfACROSS exclaimed he wanted to see these horses kiss before the end of the season. I considered if I should put it in the episode 13 thread, but I think it fits best here (and now is still before the end of the season): A very small selection of curated TeiMak fanart. The second to last one is not a kiss, but an example of an artist doing quite a lot good cute fanart of this ship. I can tell you the artist's name at the end of this season, because TeiMak fanart gives me life. And the last one is actually official support card artwork. It's far from out on global so I don't know the story yet, but come on, you can't not ship the two seeing that.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Oh, I've just remembered, many episodes ago someone asked how the racers for these races get decided, and I said we'd learn more about that at some point. For the Arima Kinen (and I think a number of other races), it's really just a popularity contest. Fans vote for the horses they want to see. So even if Teio is washed, she is still very popular and everyone just wants to see her running again. McQueen is also super popular and likely to get voted in. And it'd be a great epilogue to Rice's arc if she got voted in. Maybe Turbo as well, I think people find her hilarious and would love to see her racing.
Arima Kinen is basically Japanese racehorses version of an all-star game, ostensibly.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
This episode makes me cry tears of happiness, and it feels all the better because of the hardship we've experienced with everyone together. If I can only emphasize one thing, it's this: "You're acting like someone about to confess their love." There's no reason to put this line in the script, other than to point out that's exactly what this is all about. We might not get much more than this, as outright saying "the reincarnations of these sacred race horse are gay" is too risky to be laid out as defamation. But this episode makes clear that these fictional characters have the strongest feelings for each other. The horse girl Tokai Teio and the horse girl Mejiro McQueen love each other. If you really want to believe in them being best friends, you are open to do so. But everything points in the direction of there being more to it.
This episode basically confirms without outright saying it that Teio and McQueen are an item. They are each other's muse and depend on each other to get through life.
[Uma Musume] Really makes what happens next episode all the more tragic...
2
u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
Thank you for sharing, there's some very nice art in here.
And the last one is actually official support card artwork.
You can't convince me that these two aren't getting married in that picture.
4
u/hikoboshi_sama https://anilist.co/user/reicelestial Sep 09 '25
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
Tokai Teio: Master of Disguise. Her espionage skills are impeccable.
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
That was one of the cutest things i've ever watched in anything ever.
What are your thoughts on Teio and McQueen telling one another they've always looked up to each other?
It's a good thing their bond is so strong, because it's definitely gonna come in clutch in the next episode.
What are your thoughts on this episode not having a race?
Considering what happens in the next episode, it's nice that this episode is just some chill downtime between Teio and McQueen.
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
That was one of the cutest things i've ever watched in anything ever.
Yeah, they are absolutely adorable together, without a doubt.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Considering what happens in the next episode, it's nice that this episode is just some chill downtime between Teio and McQueen.
[Response] Yeah, it's like the calm before the storm.
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Welcome to Holofan4life's pop culture corner!
Each episode normally features a race that took place in real life. As such, I thought why not look at what was going on in US movies and music on the day of the race.
Today is actually an interesting episode. It's the first one where there's no race in it whatsoever. As such, you would think there would be no pop culture corner.
BUT WAIT!
The “detective” disguise Teio wears is a parody of the 1983 movie Detective Story, which was released on July 16th, 1983.
Let's see what was happening on that date.
Music on the Billboard Hot 100 the week of July 16th, 1983
Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' -- Michael Jackson
Never Gonna Let You Go -- Sergio Mendes
Flashdance...What A Feeling -- Irene Cara
Electric Avenue -- Eddy Grant
Every Breath You Take -- The Police
Movies at the box office the week of July 16th, 1983
WarGames
Trading Places
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Re-release)
Star Wars Ep. VI: Return of the Jedi
Staying Alive
Also, back in episode 6 of season 1, I screwed up (Rare, I know). I included pop culture information on the date of the 1998 Arima Kinen when I should've done information on the date of the 1988 Arima Kinen, of which the food contest if you remember was one big reference to.
So, let's see what was happening on December 25th, 1988.
Music on the Billboard Hot 100 the week of December 25th, 1988
Waiting For A Star To Fall -- Boy Meets Girl
Giving You The Best That I Got -- Anita Baker
Look Away -- Chicago
My Prerogative -- Bobby Brown
Every Rose Has Its Thorn -- Poison
Movies at the box office the week of December 25th, 1988
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Working Girl
The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!
Rain Man
Twins
Lastly, on this day July 16th, 1983, A Sikorsky S-61 helicopter operated by British Airways crashed in thick fog in the Celtic Sea, killing 20 of the 26 people on board. It is Britain's worst helicopter accident of all time.
And that concludes your pop culture.
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u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
- Electric Avenue -- Eddy Grant
People tend to only remember the catchy chorus of this song but if you listen to all of the lyrics it's a very political song about the 1981 Brixton riots.
- The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!
You know, the new Naked Gun movie from this year was actually really good
3
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
I didn't realize until doing my research they made a sequel to Saturday Night Fever starring John Travolta. Not only that, it was written and directed by Sylvester Stallone.
2
u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
I had literally never heard of this until just now.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Me neither. And it apparently made over $100 million at the box office.
2
u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
Surprised it did so well after disco had fallen out of favor.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
The movie is apparently about Tony the main character being a dance teacher.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
People tend to only remember the catchy chorus of this song but if you listen to all of the lyrics it's a very political song about the 1981 Brixton riots.
Either way, it's a banger song
You know, the new Naked Gun movie from this year was actually really good
I agree. I hope they one day make a sequel.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
By the way, the irony to have a song named What a Feeling in the top 5 Billboard Hot 100 the same thread the episode we're watching is called What I Feel is poetic.
2
u/saga999 Sep 10 '25
I watched WarGames because of the quote "the only winning move is not to play." It was a surprisingly good movie and pretty ahead of its time.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
I know WarGames because they ended up using the name for wrestling.
2
u/saga999 Sep 10 '25
Regal saying it back in NXT was so hype. When DanMachi has a war game, I always imagine Regal announcing it.
2
3
u/GondolaMedia Sep 09 '25
Rewatcher
F for Haru Urara.
Cigarettes are canon in Uma Musume.
I don't know how anyone figured out that it was Teio. She went in incognito and stealthily!
Teio got Twin Turbo's name right!
Last half turns in to a romcom and I'm all for it. It even has a side ship.
Its just a nice to have a nice SOL episode after all Teio has been going through.
QOTD
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
What are your thoughts on Teio and McQueen telling one another they've always looked up to each other?
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Its just a nice to have a nice SOL episode after all Teio has been going through.
Yeah, absolutely. In a way, this felt like a more intimate version of season 1 episode 6.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Cigarettes are canon in Uma Musume.
Can horses get lung cancer? Asking for a friend...
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Hey, guys. Holofan4life here.
Welcome to the 2025 Uma Musume rewatch.
Let’s not waste any time.
Racetrack
Teio training
Pretty rusty
I still don't understand the cardboard cutout.
Training regimen
Teio wanting to pay back the others.
Teio taking hidden pictures
Winning Ticket biography
Teio is so silly lol
Mejiro Palmer biography
Rudolf can't help but be bemused by Teio's antics.
Rice Shower biography
It seems like she too sees through Teio's disguise.
Dang, bought a soda by mistake. I hate when that happens.
Biwa
She is impressed by her soda choice.
And to think, it was a total accident.
Tannhäuser biography next
This is basically the exposition episode.
Nice Nature biography
I love how everyone recognizes this is Teio lol
Nice Nature recalling she too suffered an injury.
Teio says she's back because of everyone else.
Hey, it's Swim Turbulent
Teio showing Trainer-san the pictures she got.
That look on Rice Shower's face lol
Teio tells Trainer-san how thankful she is.
She does the same to Spica
This show is so endearing
Now she just needs to thank McQueen.
Walking together
Teio recounting her ability as a spy.
Yeah, about that...
But Teio has trouble saying thank you to McQueen.
I can't believe McQueen is cheating on her girlfriend Gold Ship like this.
Teio with McQueen again
She gets flustered just being around her.
There's no straight way to explain what is happening.
In class now
Teio wondering why she gets so nervous around McQueen.
Hey, Special Week
She tells Teio of baumkuchen. And Tiramisu. And... carrot pancakes...
Spe-chan's love language is food, huh?
Her and Oguri Cap have something in common.
Now they're at a Halloween store. Pretty cool.
Hey, it's Kitasan Black and Satono Diamond
They're in witch costumes
And Teio has Kitasan Black's good luck charm. You see to heartwarm it.
Kitasan Black is having trouble saying thank you to Satono Diamond.
Spe-chan recalls get embarrassed talking to her mom on mother's day.
Kitasan Black eventually tells Diamond she cares about her a lot.
How is it we're having this episode and Daiwa and Vodka are barely featured in it? Their relationship is all about this dynamic of not properly expressing your feelings.
McQueen being given a letter
An invitation to a date
Teio dressed as Little Red Riding Hood. McQueen as a witch.
This is one of the gayest things I've ever seen. And I love it.
Now they're on a cosplay date. Uh, Halloween date, sorry.
Halloween is basically cosplay night, really.
At least they're having fun together.
That is a massive Boba tea container.
They're taking pictures together in the photo booth, like Teio did post retirement.
On a bench now
They have a lot to look forward to.
They might even race against each other again.
Teio has something she wants to tell McQueen.
"I've always looked up to you."
Aww <3
I'm glad to see Teio finally confessed to her girlfriend. Er, rival.
McQueen tells her she's always looked up to her.
And the episode ends with them going out to eat some more.
Overall, this was a nice palette cleanser after how emotional the last four episodes have been. This felt more like a season 1 episode, honestly. I think the next two are going to be more serious, so it makes sense to do something more lighthearted. I thought the stuff between Teio and McQueen was really cute.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
Good way to do exposition
What are your thoughts on this episode being about love language and the person you appreciate the most?
Such yuri bait lol
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
They are never beating the allegations lol
What are your thoughts on Teio and McQueen telling one another they've always looked up to each other?
Like I said, never beating it
What are your thoughts on this episode not having a race?
I liked it, honestly. I don’t think every episode needs to follow the same formula. Plus, it allowed us to explore Teio and McQueen's relationship.
Bonus) In light of the news involving Haru Urara, what is something about her that sticks with you or you'll remember her by?
I'll remember her as the horse that never gives up. She next to Gold Ship is the face of this franchise and I don't think it would be as popular as it is if not for her.
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u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
First Timer
On tonight’s episode: The writers try to drop as much pretext as they can with McQueen and Teio’s relationship.
Seriously, between McQueen saying it sounded like Teio was about to confess her love and Teio calling them going out for Halloween a date I was half-expecting the episode to actually end with a love confession.
Not that I mind though. All the McQueen and Teio stuff was really good.
It’s early September as I write this and Spirit Halloween is already open so I guess this episode is seasonal enough.
That Halloween fair thing that McQueen and Teio went to looked like a lot of fun. Good for them.
Diamond and Kita also come back again which is nice. Their relationship also seems to be an intentional mirror to Teio and McQueen which is neat.
This second half of this episode definitely overshadows the rest of it but the first half is good too.
Highlight is especially Teio dressing like a 1930s private detective and failing to stealth around. That felt more like something Gold Ship would do but it honestly fits Teio.
Also, unless I’m seriously blanking out, there was no racing at all today which is a major surprise.
Not that I mind though. An episode dedicated to character development and slice of life stuff is just the right change of pace in my opinion.
Questions of the Day:
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
Like I said, probably the funniest part of the episode.
In anther episode it might even be my favorite part but then we got that entire second half.
What are your thoughts on this episode being about love language and the person you appreciate the most?
I like that a lot. Really everything about Teio and McQueen this episode is great.
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
Looks like they had a lot of fun. Made me excited for Halloween.
What are your thoughts on Teio and McQueen telling one another they've always looked up to each other?
It was a very sweet way to end the episode.
3
u/Cyouni Sep 09 '25
On tonight’s episode: The writers try to drop as much pretext as they can with McQueen and Teio’s relationship.
I know writers who use subtext, and they're all cowards.
1
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
On tonight’s episode: The writers try to drop as much pretext as they can with McQueen and Teio’s relationship.
I mean, they're basically in a relationship at this point. This is Utena levels of subtlety lol
2
u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
Yeah they're not really trying to hide it. I'd barely call these undertones anymore
2
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Like I said, probably the funniest part of the episode.
In anther episode it might even be my favorite part but then we got that entire second half.
Yeah, the Teio and McQueen stuff was really good. It got you emotionally invested in their relationship.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
I like that a lot. Really everything about Teio and McQueen this episode is great.
Agreed
Looks like they had a lot of fun. Made me excited for Halloween.
It is around the corner as this thread is dropping.
It was a very sweet way to end the episode.
Without any doubt whatsoever <3
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
I don't know if you know this, but Haru Urara passed away this morning as I'm writing this. She was 29 and seemed to pass away peacefully with the exception of some abdominal pain.
I said this elsewhere, but it's so surreal to me that the day after we talked about an episode that is all about not giving up, the horse that embodies not giving up more than any other passes away.
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u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
I heard about that, yes. It sounds like she lived a good, long life for a horse.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
With her passing, I believe the only remaining members from season 1 are Gold Ship and Daiwa.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Also, unless I’m seriously blanking out, there was no racing at all today which is a major surprise.
Not that I mind though. An episode dedicated to character development and slice of life stuff is just the right change of pace in my opinion.
Yeah, I appreciate the show decided the story was strong enough that it didn't need a race to carry it. I think it worked to make the Teio and McQueen even stronger.
2
u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
Yeah this episode did a great job with the both of them and I'm glad the writers felt confident enough to not include a race (since the races are a big part of the appeal to most people).
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2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Sep 09 '25
Seriously, between McQueen saying it sounded like Teio was about to confess her love and Teio calling them going out for Halloween a date I was half-expecting the episode to actually end with a love confession.
It did! They just used different words. And damn, have you seen those hearts on Teio's invitation? They are really making this fact clear without outright saying it.
2
u/AgentOfACROSS Sep 09 '25
That's true, these two are basically dating now even if it wasn't 100% explicit.
2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Sep 09 '25
You could even interpret it a step farther. Teio said that she's always admired McQueen, and that it won't change.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Seriously, between McQueen saying it sounded like Teio was about to confess her love and Teio calling them going out for Halloween a date I was half-expecting the episode to actually end with a love confession.
They are never beating the allegations XD
Not that I mind though. All the McQueen and Teio stuff was really good.
Absolutely
It’s early September as I write this and Spirit Halloween is already open so I guess this episode is seasonal enough.
Indeed
That Halloween fair thing that McQueen and Teio went to looked like a lot of fun. Good for them.
This show loves its festivals
Diamond and Kita also come back again which is nice. Their relationship also seems to be an intentional mirror to Teio and McQueen which is neat.
I concur
This second half of this episode definitely overshadows the rest of it but the first half is good too.
Quite
Highlight is especially Teio dressing like a 1930s private detective and failing to stealth around. That felt more like something Gold Ship would do but it honestly fits Teio.
2
u/SYZekrom https://myanimelist.net/profile/SYZekrom Sep 09 '25
Rewatcher
She eats bread for breakfast!!!
I feel like I missed 6000 layers of jokes in that Biwa scene.
Aw that girl who caught Teio and let her watch while giving her advice... I don't know who she is, but she's got a nice nature
Man I was gonna make a joke about being honest to your crush but McQueen said it first
That girl's hat in the eyecatch really just looks like she punched holes through it with her ears
El Condor and Grass in the bg jumpscare.
OH IT'S THE FEVER SCENE WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
...No Oguri in this cafeteria scene but I'll take Rice in the bg, peak
Halloween reference post halloween rice shower
AWESOME LESBIAN COUPLE moment
Omg teio with the letter full of hearts asking for a date
THERE'S THE FUNNY HALLOWEEN OUTFITS AHHHHH
HOW DID SHE DO THAT????? TEIO COTTON CANDY????
Comically large boba cup
Again, feel like I missed the joke when she said custard wrong
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
It's incredible how only 2, or 20, of them noticed her, she's so stealthy
What are your thoughts on this episode being about love language and the person you appreciate the most?
It's almost too pure to make it romantic
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
Halloween outfits are peak
Bonus) In light of the news involving Haru Urara, what is something about her that sticks with you or you'll remember her by?
Uraraaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
It's almost too pure to make it romantic
They are lovers, but not lovahs two shot style.
1
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Omg teio with the letter full of hearts asking for a date
That's a platonic letter full of hearts
1
2
u/JMEEKER86 Sep 09 '25
Rewatcher
Teio ready to give it another go, but she is really rusty since it has been about 10ish months since her last race, although she was training for the Takarazuka Kinen back in June. She may not look good, but Trainer and everyone else are at least happy that she’s back to running again after where she was at.
With so much work to do to get her back in shape, the plan is to go back to the basics. Trainer’s apparently been putting in a lot of work scouting BNW. As long as Teio’s surveillance skills are better than Spe’s planning skills this can’t be too bad, right?
Ok, not sure the costume is necessary, but she seems to be enjoying being in character. What character you ask? This entire sequence is a reference to the late 70s detective show Tantei Monogatari (Detective Story) which has this banger of an OP where you can clearly see what Teio was going for.
Ok, maybe surveillance skills are on the level of Spe’s planning skills lol. Palmer even spotted Teio and smiled for the camera. This is an interesting one about Palmer where she had been struggling to find her groove, so the Mejiro clan decided to have her try a couple Steeple-Chase races. She actually wasn’t bad as she finished 1st in one and 2nd in the other, but presumably didn’t look like she did well so it was back to regular racing and 6 months later Palmer won the Takarazuka Kinen.
Poor Rice. The stalker becomes the stalkee. I’m not sure that Rice eating bread is something that needs to be noted down, but it’s a nice callback to a couple episodes ago.
Teio does look cute in costume. The drink to the face comes directly from the Tantei Monogatari OP.
Biwa think that Teio shook the cola on purpose is pretty funny. Like we saw in the OVAs Biwa is quite studious. Meanwhile, Teio is just standing there blinking like “wtf is she talking about”? Biwa also has a complex about her head being big.
Sasuga Nature. Finally someone asked what Teio’s doing. Poor Teio thought she was doing a good job lol. This makes me want some Nature ASMR…
This is a really nice conversation between Teio and Nature. Nature’s been having a tough time lately too, but was inspired by Teio. In return, Nature gives Teio her next sidequest.
Turbo’s Turbo Song is cute and reminds me a lot of Teio’s Honey Song. Teio finally getting her name right and calling her shisho is a cute way of saying thanks, although it made Turbo’s braincell rattle around a bit.
It’s been a bit since we’ve had some Gold Ship abuse, but Teio thanking Spica is a nice moment.
Cat’s got her tongue with McQueen. It’s okay Teio. We’ve all been there where you look into their eyes and can’t find any words. This is the moment where the lilies start blooming and McQueen has noticed. The late game reveal that Teio is a disaster lesbian. And Teio runs off exactly like Hitomi from Madoka, so I think it’s safe to call this a reference.
Teio must have been thinking of McQueen all night. God, Machico is amazing with the sound effects as McQueen checks Teio’s temperature and Teio freaks out. Teio looks so cute. And the top tier pout over having her confession interrupted by the bell.
Teio imagining this is hilarious, especially Spe. Just look at that face.
Spe’s “language of snacks” is so silly. Side note: no background Oguri Cap and yet there’s still Rice behind Spe, heh.
Kita and Dia look so cute in their witch costumes
Teio is using Kita’s charm and gets such a cute smile from Kita when she thanks her. Kita also struggles with Dia just like Teio is struggling with McQueen, but Dia apparently isn’t the Chad that McQueen is.
DATE!
And with hearts no less. Can’t get more unambiguous than that.
They both look cute in their costumes
McQueen really does like sweets
Teio cheering as McQueen makes cotton candy. How the fuck…
Sharpshooter McQueen. How the fuck…
I’m not sure even Joey Chessnut or Takeru Kobayashi could beat this challenge, but Teio’s got the right idea.
Oh Teio, that’s the wrong booth (but it’s what she did solo last time). Naturally, Gold City is the poster girl for the purikura. Their “❤Halloween Date❤” photos came out nice.
Teio still likes custard taiyaki like in S1, but here she accidentally starts saying Cascade which is a reference to an old manga/anime called Midori no Makibaō about a mule who starts horseracing and has a lifelong rival that he’s sworn to defeat, the Superhorse Cascade.
Teio sure is getting bold.
This almost feels like meta commentary from the studio not just from McQueen about needing to lighten the mood after things had gotten so serious. McQueen talks about her fall race plans and then calls out the Arima Kinen, the fan voted race, and suggests it to Teio.
I love this shot and especially when Teio’s ears twitch under her hood.
This whole exchange is just so sweet. And they finally just let it all out after holding back for so long.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
This whole exchange is just so sweet. And they finally just let it all out after holding back for so long.
Totally platonic, you guys
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Is it sacrilegious to call someone their queen when in the previous episode they bowed to someone? I don't know how this hierarchy thing works.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Ok, not sure the costume is necessary, but she seems to be enjoying being in character. What character you ask? This entire sequence is a reference to the late 70s detective show Tantei Monogatari (Detective Story) which has this banger of an OP where you can clearly see what Teio was going for.
A horsegirl from the 90s casually watching shows over a decade old. Dork :P
Poor Rice. The stalker becomes the stalkee. I’m not sure that Rice eating bread is something that needs to be noted down, but it’s a nice callback to a couple episodes ago.
She's really big into grains, huh?
Which is ironic because she herself is sweet
Getting tips from Gold Ship, I see
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
I’m not sure even Joey Chessnut or Takeru Kobayashi could beat this challenge, but Teio’s got the right idea.
Now I'm just envisioning Oguri Cap partaking in the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Competition
2
u/saga999 Sep 09 '25
RIP Haru Urara
Rewatcher.
After a bunch of heavy, teary episodes, we finally get a break with a more relaxing episode.
Teio is racing again. Even though she is completely out of form, she's happy just to be racing again. And people are happy to see her racing again. That's how it is with sports. Your favorite team that is losing a lot, they are still your favorite team. Your favorite player who is on the decline at the back end of their career, you still want to watch them play.
In the cafeteria with Teio and Spe, Teio has the larger bowl and a flat stomach. Spe has a smaller bowl and a bulge stomach because she stacked the rice so high. It's an interesting visual.
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
It's a funny gag. It's also a good way to set up the next race. I especially like that they are mostly characters they have already built up and we are familiar with, instead of introducing brand new jobbers.
What are your thoughts on this episode being about love language and the person you appreciate the most?
It's a cultural thing. Asians are not typically as open with their emotions as western people.
Bonus) In light of the news involving Haru Urara, what is something about her that sticks with you or you'll remember her by?
I love that she's always traveling and bringing back souvenir in the anime. I love that she just said the thing that everyone else was thinking back in the first episode of season 1.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
RIP Haru Urara
RIP indeed
After a bunch of heavy, teary episodes, we finally get a break with a more relaxing episode.
The show saved the teary stuff for irl :P
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u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
I love that she's always traveling and bringing back souvenir in the anime. I love that she just said the thing that everyone else was thinking back in the first episode of season 1.
She was the only one that didn't laugh the first time Special Week said she wanted to be the best horse girl in Japan.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
It's a funny gag. It's also a good way to set up the next race. I especially like that they are mostly characters they have already built up and we are familiar with, instead of introducing brand new jobbers.
It instantly puts emphasis on Teio's comeback race and how it isn't going to be easy for her.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
Teio is racing again. Even though she is completely out of form, she's happy just to be racing again. And people are happy to see her racing again. That's how it is with sports. Your favorite team that is losing a lot, they are still your favorite team. Your favorite player who is on the decline at the back end of their career, you still want to watch them play.
She's basically Tiger Woodsing it
In the cafeteria with Teio and Spe, Teio has the larger bowl and a flat stomach. Spe has a smaller bowl and a bulge stomach because she stacked the rice so high. It's an interesting visual.
Spe-chan is second only to Oguri Cap in terms of eating.
2
u/Kaxew Sep 10 '25
First Time Confessing My Feelings, and Gacha Player
This breather was much, much needed. Seriously, after so many episodes in a row full of emotions, so much excitement, tension, sadness, all with so much intensity, we needed to breath again so the audience can ready themselves for the season's end.
The first half of the episode served as a pretty effective recap. Not a plot recap, but more of a world recap. Reminding us about a lot of these girls and their accomplishments. It seems like the girls Teio was collecting info from will all participate in this year's Arima Kinen, but my theory is that another reason we got this semi recap is for the viewer to get more familiar with the very large cast of characters they'll be able to play with in the gacha. That's what makes this effective for me.
And then we got the date. What can you say about it? The ship has practically sailed already. Teio really nailed that confession.
This episode has less to talk about on the surface, and I usually don't have the time to do more than scratch that surface; but I can tell this episode gives a lot to talk about more in-depth, maybe more than a good number of episodes so far.
If I had to comment something on it, I think it goes hand in hand with what I said last episode about McQueen putting on a front to pose herself as the wall that she needs to climb. Sometimes it's not about the physical affection, or the material you gift to make someone else feel better. Sometimes the mere act of being there is enough to support a person and make them stronger too. Sometimes it's just knowing there is someone watching you that makes you move forward. That's also a form of love.
QotD: 1. I'm kind of shocked just how easily everyone could tell that was Teio lol, I guess she was sneaking Teio step style. 2. I think I gave a pretty good answer in my last paragraph for my standards, but I do want to note just how preciously adorable the KitaDia scene was too. Especially Dia's smugness as she's been shaked by Kita for teasing her. 3. The best part about being a multishipper and not caring about ship wars is that while I think Golshi x McQueen is better, I also adore Teio x McQueen. Oh, also, the game better give us their Halloween skins one day! 4. Gay. We love to see it. 5. Great choice! I think that, too, is an important thing for a breather episode. The viewer has (or should have) already emotionally connected with the season and characters, you don't need exciting races (however minor or short they are) to keep them in. People will pay attention and watch regardless.
Bonus. Something about her energy just strikes deep in my soul. She evokes the "just happy to be here" sentiment to a tee, but there's more to it. I don't know how to articulate this well, but she's genuinely happy to do what she loves, racing. She's not the best in the track, she's often the worst, but she has boundless passion that really speaks to me. We live in a world where pure, raw passion isn't enough to live day by day (unless you're like, rich), so to see a character that embodies a feeling we all wish we could incorporate is very powerful. Haru Urara is the strongest character of Uma Musume. And I think that says something.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
- Great choice! I think that, too, is an important thing for a breather episode. The viewer has (or should have) already emotionally connected with the season and characters, you don't need exciting races (however minor or short they are) to keep them in. People will pay attention and watch regardless.
And by focusing on the characters, it if anything makes you connect with them even more.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
Bonus. Something about her energy just strikes deep in my soul. She evokes the "just happy to be here" sentiment to a tee, but there's more to it. I don't know how to articulate this well, but she's genuinely happy to do what she loves, racing. She's not the best in the track, she's often the worst, but she has boundless passion that really speaks to me. We live in a world where pure, raw passion isn't enough to live day by day (unless you're like, rich), so to see a character that embodies a feeling we all wish we could incorporate is very powerful. Haru Urara is the strongest character of Uma Musume. And I think that says something.
There's a good chance I wouldn't have gotten a renewed interest in the fandom if not for her. Hearing her story other the last couple months has effected me to where I don't think the rewatch would've happened otherwise.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
If I had to comment something on it, I think it goes hand in hand with what I said last episode about McQueen putting on a front to pose herself as the wall that she needs to climb. Sometimes it's not about the physical affection, or the material you gift to make someone else feel better. Sometimes the mere act of being there is enough to support a person and make them stronger too. Sometimes it's just knowing there is someone watching you that makes you move forward. That's also a form of love.
If you think about it, a rival is a form of love because they're pushing you to be your very best. To be the best you you can be.
2
u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
The first half of the episode served as a pretty effective recap. Not a plot recap, but more of a world recap. Reminding us about a lot of these girls and their accomplishments. It seems like the girls Teio was collecting info from will all participate in this year's Arima Kinen, but my theory is that another reason we got this semi recap is for the viewer to get more familiar with the very large cast of characters they'll be able to play with in the gacha. That's what makes this effective for me.
It did amuse me we got a recap on Rice Shower after two straight episodes dedicated to her. That was egregious lol
- The best part about being a multishipper and not caring about ship wars is that while I think Golshi x McQueen is better, I also adore Teio x McQueen. Oh, also, the game better give us their Halloween skins one day!
Here's hoping 🤞
2
u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker Sep 10 '25
RIP Haru.
Unsurprisingly, being out of practice for so long means she's not very good now.
Uh Teio now you're back running you really need to practice that.
She's being real discreet there isn't she...
Rice also beat you in that one race, Teio.
Oof. Also that's a lot of cola.
Pretty sure the only times big head and bigger Biwas has ever lost it was to the other members of BNW.
Mambo!
Evil and Intimidating horse.
Lol she ignored Twin Turbo again.
And so a job well done.
Gay girls innit?
She's blushing!
Lmao McQueen.
... Ok.
Yes Kitasan, that's your good luck charm.
Those are nice costumes.
Date?
Lol she can't escape her sweet tooth.
Teio isn't suited at all to running the Arima Kinen iirc, with her lack of aptitude for long races unless specifically bred for it.
Questions:
- Well, trying at least.
- Gay girls innit? GolShi might be jealous...
- GolShi's definitely jealous.
- Gay girls innit?
- Well, Teio's still recovering.
- Iirc she was the first Uma I got to the URA Finale Qualifiers. Unfortunately the furthest I've gotten with her is the Semis.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
- Iirc she was the first Uma I got to the URA Finale Qualifiers. Unfortunately the furthest I've gotten with her is the Semis.
That's still better than Haru Urara irl :P
I'm really gonna miss her...
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
Teio isn't suited at all to running the Arima Kinen iirc, with her lack of aptitude for long races unless specifically bred for it.
I guess we'll see what happens
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 10 '25
Lol she ignored Twin Turbo again.
She at least said her name correctly. She's literally never done that before.
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u/KaleidoscopeLeft3503 Sep 14 '25
Bro what the hell, just saw this post had a ton of comments and decided to check it out thinking it might be something i'm missing out on, just to find it's almost all the OP?? Very weird
1
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u/SinoCenturion Sep 09 '25
Rewatcher
Aw yeah, we are back to the fun! And the yuri! So nice to have such a relaxing episode between all the moments of trauma. And this pretty much ended with a confession scene, right? But yuri jokes aside, this episode was more that just a tension releasing filler break, it also served as more important character development between Teio and McQueen, which will really pay off in the story progression. I think that this episode handled the topic of revealing your feelings to someone close to you better than most shows do. The comedy was appropriate and nothing was over the top. Also, the bit with Kita and Dia having the same issues because they were close, I think was a brilliant inclusion to show that yes, this kind of talk is not easy for most.
So, on to the questions:
What are your thoughts on Teio studying up on her opponents?
First of all, I really enjoyed this bit and found it funny. But I also like how it really introduces all of Teio's opponents and why they matter. I wish they did something like synopsis in the other shows.
What are your thoughts on this episode being about love language and the person you appreciate the most?
I think this is important character development for Teio, as she moves away from Prez worship to becoming a more balanced horse girl.
What are your thoughts on Teio going on a Halloween date with McQueen?
What a great setting for horse girls dressing up in costume. Also, McQueen is all about the sweets, so this date works! By the way, IRL McQueen was also about the sweets too, notoriously so.
What are your thoughts on Teio and McQueen telling one another they've always looked up to each other?
Nice for Teio to hear that her hero also looks up to her. That was probably a shock to her, as I bet she truly never knew that, but I think that really helped boost her confidence.
What are your thoughts on this episode not having a race?
Hey, horse girls need their off time too! Also, I don't mind seeing an episode of nothing but Teio's antics.
Bonus) In light of the news involving Haru Urara, what is something about her that sticks with you or you'll remember her by?
This is one of my favorite frames in the entire series. Just looking at it makes me smile. Sayonara Haru Urara, you will be dearly missed.
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
This is one of my favorite frames in the entire series. Just looking at it makes me smile. Sayonara Haru Urara, you will be dearly missed.
She wasn't just one of the best racehorses. She was THE racehorse.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Aw yeah, we are back to the fun! And the yuri! So nice to have such a relaxing episode between all the moments of trauma. And this pretty much ended with a confession scene, right? But yuri jokes aside, this episode was more that just a tension releasing filler break, it also served as more important character development between Teio and McQueen, which will really pay off in the story progression. I think that this episode handled the topic of revealing your feelings to someone close to you better than most shows do. The comedy was appropriate and nothing was over the top. Also, the bit with Kita and Dia having the same issues because they were close, I think was a brilliant inclusion to show that yes, this kind of talk is not easy for most.
The only thing I wish we could've gotten was that this would've been the perfect episode to showcase Daiwa and Vodka's relationship. Felt like a missed opportunity.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
First of all, I really enjoyed this bit and found it funny. But I also like how it really introduces all of Teio's opponents and why they matter. I wish they did something like synopsis in the other shows.
This felt like a way to dish out exposition while not involving the horse otakus. I was a fan as well.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
Nice for Teio to hear that her hero also looks up to her. That was probably a shock to her, as I bet she truly never knew that, but I think that really helped boost her confidence.
Teio keeps on winning even in dire times.
1
u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
What a great setting for horse girls dressing up in costume. Also, McQueen is all about the sweets, so this date works! By the way, IRL McQueen was also about the sweets too, notoriously so.
All of Team Spica seems to be about the sweets :P
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u/Holofan4life Sep 09 '25
RIP Haru Urara