Description
Midori Makibao, also known as Unko Tarezō, is a small white mule born April 4, 1993, at Midori Farm in Mukawa Town, Hokkaido. His physique defies thoroughbred norms, resembling a pig's body with a hippo-like head and standing roughly the size of a large dog, often leading to initial donkey-like perceptions. Wide nostrils further mark his features.
He is the son of famed European racer Tamākin and successful Japanese racer Midoriko. His unusual looks nearly caused him to be sold for meat shortly after birth due to the farm's financial troubles and Genjiro Obu's doubts. His mother's intervention saved him, though she was later taken away to settle farm debts, becoming his primary racing motivation. Lost in a forest while trying to follow her, he met a mouse named Chūbei. When wild dogs attacked, Midori Makibao repelled them through defecation, earning the name "Unko Tarezō" ("Poop-dropper") from Chūbei. Chūbei became his mentor and self-proclaimed "boss," accompanying races by biting his head instead of using a jockey's whip.
Despite his size, Midori Makibao possesses extraordinary racing abilities. His unusually large heart grants exceptional stamina and power but also creates vulnerability to cardiac strain under intense exertion. He initially ran uncontrollably straight ahead, often hitting barriers, but developed refined techniques. These include the physically taxing "Mustang Special," a powerful two-legged leap usable only sparingly, and the "Woodpecker Tactic," where jockey Kansuke Yamamoto adjusts his head position mid-race for control. His small frame suggested only short-distance suitability, yet he excelled in long classic races. His large hooves challenged him on muddy tracks but provided traction advantage in deep mud.
Key relationships shape his journey: his deep bond with mother Midoriko fuels his determination; Chūbei serves as comedic support and strategic guide; trainer Masatora Obu offers disciplined mentorship; jockey Kansuke Yamamoto becomes a trusted partner. His rivalry with dark-coated thoroughbred Cascade defines much of his competitive arc, culminating in a historic tie during the Japanese Derby. Other significant rivals include Amago Wakuchin and Nitronics.
His career features major milestones: early victories in races like the Sapporo debut and Hakodate 3-Year-Old Stakes; setbacks against Cascade in the Asahi Hai 3-Year-Old Stakes; and the defining tie with Cascade in the Japanese Derby. Following Chūbei's death in an accident, he suffered a severe slump but recovered to win the Kikuka Sho (Japanese St. Leger) and later secured victory over Cascade in the Arima Kinen. An international pursuit led to the Dubai World Cup, where a catastrophic accident broke both front legs. Emergency surgery prevented euthanasia, though his racing future was uncertain.
Post-recovery, he competed in local races and returned for the Japan Champion Cup, facing former rivals and his younger brother Blitz. In later years, depicted in the sequel "Taiyou no Makibaō," he transitioned to roles as a trainer and racer in Dubai before retiring in Mongolia.
Notable traits include a laid-back demeanor, use of phrases like "Naa" and "...that’s not good, you know...," and a love for apples. His development shows evolution from a timid, bullied foal to a resilient competitor persevering through physical and emotional hardships, embodying determination.
Legacy elements include inspiration from real-life racehorse Tamamo Cross and recognition as an image character for Japanese horse racing promotions.
He is the son of famed European racer Tamākin and successful Japanese racer Midoriko. His unusual looks nearly caused him to be sold for meat shortly after birth due to the farm's financial troubles and Genjiro Obu's doubts. His mother's intervention saved him, though she was later taken away to settle farm debts, becoming his primary racing motivation. Lost in a forest while trying to follow her, he met a mouse named Chūbei. When wild dogs attacked, Midori Makibao repelled them through defecation, earning the name "Unko Tarezō" ("Poop-dropper") from Chūbei. Chūbei became his mentor and self-proclaimed "boss," accompanying races by biting his head instead of using a jockey's whip.
Despite his size, Midori Makibao possesses extraordinary racing abilities. His unusually large heart grants exceptional stamina and power but also creates vulnerability to cardiac strain under intense exertion. He initially ran uncontrollably straight ahead, often hitting barriers, but developed refined techniques. These include the physically taxing "Mustang Special," a powerful two-legged leap usable only sparingly, and the "Woodpecker Tactic," where jockey Kansuke Yamamoto adjusts his head position mid-race for control. His small frame suggested only short-distance suitability, yet he excelled in long classic races. His large hooves challenged him on muddy tracks but provided traction advantage in deep mud.
Key relationships shape his journey: his deep bond with mother Midoriko fuels his determination; Chūbei serves as comedic support and strategic guide; trainer Masatora Obu offers disciplined mentorship; jockey Kansuke Yamamoto becomes a trusted partner. His rivalry with dark-coated thoroughbred Cascade defines much of his competitive arc, culminating in a historic tie during the Japanese Derby. Other significant rivals include Amago Wakuchin and Nitronics.
His career features major milestones: early victories in races like the Sapporo debut and Hakodate 3-Year-Old Stakes; setbacks against Cascade in the Asahi Hai 3-Year-Old Stakes; and the defining tie with Cascade in the Japanese Derby. Following Chūbei's death in an accident, he suffered a severe slump but recovered to win the Kikuka Sho (Japanese St. Leger) and later secured victory over Cascade in the Arima Kinen. An international pursuit led to the Dubai World Cup, where a catastrophic accident broke both front legs. Emergency surgery prevented euthanasia, though his racing future was uncertain.
Post-recovery, he competed in local races and returned for the Japan Champion Cup, facing former rivals and his younger brother Blitz. In later years, depicted in the sequel "Taiyou no Makibaō," he transitioned to roles as a trainer and racer in Dubai before retiring in Mongolia.
Notable traits include a laid-back demeanor, use of phrases like "Naa" and "...that’s not good, you know...," and a love for apples. His development shows evolution from a timid, bullied foal to a resilient competitor persevering through physical and emotional hardships, embodying determination.
Legacy elements include inspiration from real-life racehorse Tamamo Cross and recognition as an image character for Japanese horse racing promotions.