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It had been Lucky Star’s first big race in the middle school league, and she’d failed to qualify for the next round. She was crushed. What was the point of keeping training, if she fell at the first hurdle?
She didn’t even want to go watch the older umamasume race, which she usually loved. But her parents had insisted, hoping it would lift her spirits, so here they are in the stands, watching the real racers.
And there, at the end of the pack, runs Haru Urara. She’s smiling, as always, even facing yet another loss. Lucky’s ears flick as she watches Haru’s expression intently. How could she look so cheerful, when losing hurts so badly? It feels like everything you are, no matter how hard you try, it just isn’t enough.
Lucky sees that the farmers and stall owners from town still cheer Haru on. Even though she lags behind, or because she does, they never stop supporting her. Haru wants to win for them, her supporters, not just herself. Even though Lucky yearns to win, and be like the powerful adult umamasume she sees in the races, she’d always been a secret fan of Haru as well, hoping one day to see her finally win.
Lucky’s father always says there’s value in the effort itself, and that she should run just for the fun of it. It sounds like stupid grown up philosophy stuff to Lucky. But maybe he’s right, since Haru refuses to give up, despite the odds and evidence being against her. And stronger umamasume keep Haru around. They like her, enjoy her company. Like a good-luck charm, or more. She shares her optimism and determination with them, with everyone, freely given.
If Haru can keep trying, carry on with a big smile on her face even in defeat, then so can Lucky Star. She resolves to never give up, no matter what, just like Haru. One day, they’ll both win.