Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray [Season 2 Episode 8]

Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray Season 2 Episode 8 Review: The Arima Kinen Begins—And Leaves Us Begging For More

If you’ve been counting down the days for the Arima Kinen race in Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray Season 2, Episode 8 finally delivers—well, half of it, anyway. Fans (including me) were low-key shocked to learn this iconic race is split into two parts, but honestly? The tension and heart packed into these 23 minutes make the wait for next week totally worth it.

Let’s start with the buildup: this episode doesn’t waste time on filler. Belno, Oguri Cap’s loyal sidekick, gets the love she deserves—seriously, she’s not a third-rate Uma Musume! Fans are calling her the MVP for her unwavering support and strategic smarts, and that’s spot-on. We also get a hilarious flashback of little Oguri being a “devourer” (she ate everything in sight as a kid—who knew?), which adds a cute, human touch to her tough racer persona.

But the real fire comes from the rivalry between Oguri and Tamamo Cross. When Oguri stands up to Tamamo and declares she’s going to beat her this time, that’s the kind of drama we live for. Tamamo’s not here to play—one fan summed it up perfectly: “Tama-chan isn’t here to race, she’s here to win and she’s going to win FAST!” Their back-and-forth is electric, and you can feel the stakes rising with every line.

Then comes the race itself—and Dicta Striker can’t catch a break. She slams into the gate at the start, bleeding from the head, but keeps running like a champ. Fans were both worried and impressed: “dicta striker bleeding from the head and still going??? damn girl get off the track and see a doctor!!!” But Dicta’s grit is nothing new—she’s always been a fighter, even when luck’s not on her side.

Just when things get real—Tamamo hits her acceleration button, leaving everyone in the dust—the episode cuts off. Talk about a cliffhanger! Fans are losing it: “god damnnn !! need to wait another week for this masterpiece !!” It’s the kind of ending that makes you grab your phone and text your friends about how unfair (but awesome) it is.

There are also wholesome moments that hit hard. Tamamo and her trainer Komi share a sweet scene—since this is Tamamo’s final race, it’s extra emotional. Fans loved the nod to the real-life Tamamo and his trainer, calling it “heartwarming.” And Lord Royal’s front-running strategy? Let’s just say fans are here for it: “front running is THE coolest strat, cry if you disagree.”

Overall, Episode 8 is all about setting the stage for the big finish. It’s got drama, heart, and that classic Uma Musume charm that makes you care about every character—even the ones you don’t root for. Whether you’re here for the rivalry between Oguri and Tamamo, Belno’s underrated MVP energy, or just the thrill of the race, this episode delivers.

Sure, we have to wait another week to see who wins the Arima Kinen, but that’s part of the fun. Will Oguri finally beat Tamamo? Will Dicta pull off a miracle despite her injury? Or will someone else take the crown? Whatever happens, Episode 8 has us hooked—and counting down the days until next Sunday.

If you’re a fan of Uma Musume, this episode is a must-watch. It’s got everything that makes the series great: character growth, intense competition, and moments that make you laugh and cry. Don’t miss it—just be prepared to scream at your screen when the credits roll!

Final Verdict: 9/10—half a race never felt so exciting. Can’t wait for the conclusion!
#UmaMusume #CinderellaGray #ArimaKinen2025

This review is based on fan discussions and official episode details. All opinions are my own (and probably shared by half the Uma Musume fandom).
\ud83d\udc3e\ud83c\udf89\ud83d\udca8