Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray [Season 1 Episodes 1-23]

Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray Season 1 (Episodes 1-23): A Rookie Trainer’s Dream Takes Flight

Imagine a world where horse racing meets idol culture—where athletes aren’t just jockeys, but “horse girls” with superhuman speed and personality. That’s the vibrant universe of Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray, a spin-off of the beloved Uma Musume franchise that’s been making waves since its 2025 debut. For 23 episodes, viewers follow rookie trainer Jou Kitahara and his protégé, Oguri Cap, as they chase glory from regional tracks to national stardom. Let’s dive into why this season has fans buzzing.

The Story: From Rookie to Rising Star

Set in Tokyo, the anime centers on Jou Kitahara, a trainer with big dreams but little luck—until he stumbles upon Oguri Cap, an ash-haired horse girl with raw talent at Kasamatsu Tracen Academy. The season is split into three arcs: the Regionals Arc (Episodes 1-6), where Oguri cuts her teeth in local races; the National Debut + White Lightning Arc (Episodes 7-23), marking her jump to the big leagues; and a teaser for the New Era Arc, hinting at future rivals.

Fans on MyAnimeList note that the series stays true to real-life horse racing history, with races like the Pegasus Stakes and Mainichi Okan mirroring actual events. “These 23 episodes cover Oguri’s 2nd and 3rd years of her career,” one user explains, adding that some races are omitted for pacing. The attention to detail—like Oguri’s iconic “white lightning” speed—adds authenticity, making the stakes feel real even for non-racing fans.

Characters: Heart and Humor

Jou Kitahara is the underdog we all root for: earnest, a bit clumsy, but fiercely dedicated to Oguri. Their dynamic is the heart of the show—think Rocky meets Idolmaster. Oguri, meanwhile, balances vulnerability with determination, her journey from shy rookie to confident competitor resonating with viewers. “I love how they show her growth,” a fan gushes. “She’s not just a ‘talent’—she’s a character with flaws and dreams.”

Supporting characters like rival horse girls and fellow trainers add depth. The “White Lightning” arc introduces new challenges, including a rivalry teased in Episode 23 that has fans speculating about Season 2.

Animation and Sound: A Feast for the Senses

Produced by Cygames, the animation is crisp and colorful, with race sequences that are nothing short of exhilarating. The horse girls’ designs blend cute with athletic, and their transformations during races—complete with glowing hair and dynamic poses—are eye-catching.

The soundtrack deserves a shoutout too. While the first cour skipped the iconic ending song Umapyoi Densetsu (a bold choice!), the new tracks, like the upbeat “White Lightning,” perfectly capture the energy of racing. Fans praised the decision to mix original music with familiar franchise beats, keeping the vibe fresh.

Fan Reactions: Love, Spoilers, and Speculation

On MyAnimeList, discussions are lively. Some fans debate the arc titles—“Is it ‘National Debut’ or ‘White Lightning’?”—while others dissect the philosophical quotes sprinkled in, like Erika Furudo’s line: “All truth is meaningless… meaning comes from the mind of each individual.”

Spoiler alerts are common, as the series follows real race outcomes. “If you know horse racing history, you’ll see the results coming,” one user warns, but adds that the emotional journey makes it worth watching. The biggest buzz? Episode 23’s teaser for Oguri’s next rivals—“two of the biggest names in the sport,” as a fan teases.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Sports and Idol Fans

Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray Season 1 isn’t just about racing—it’s about ambition, friendship, and the thrill of chasing dreams. The blend of sports drama, idol culture, and heartfelt storytelling makes it accessible to a wide audience. Whether you’re a horse racing enthusiast or just love underdog stories, this season delivers.

With 23 episodes of action, humor, and character growth, it’s no wonder fans are already craving Season 2. As one viewer puts it: “This isn’t just an anime—it’s a love letter to the sport and the people who make it magical.”

So grab your popcorn, root for Oguri Cap, and get ready to be swept away by the world of Uma Musume. It’s a ride you won’t forget!

Rating: 8.5/10
Perfect for: Sports anime fans, idol culture lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good underdog story.