Series & First Appearance
Special Week is a character from the anime Uma Musume: Pretty Derby, which first aired in April 2018. The series is based on a multimedia project developed by Cygames, with character designs by P.A. Works. Special Week’s first appearance is in Episode 1 and her design is inspired by real-life racehorse Special Week, a champion Thoroughbred from Japan.
Profile at a Glance
Special Week is a young, female horse girl who appears to be in her late teens, representing the spirit of the racehorse of the same name. As the protagonist of Uma Musume: Pretty Derby, she is affiliated with Team Spica, where she strives to become a top racehorse. Known for her tenacity and determination, her signature ability is her unwavering fighting spirit, often depicted during races that showcase her incredible resilience.
Personality & Motivations
Special Week is characterized by her optimistic outlook and relentless drive. She embodies the traits of kindness, perseverance, and an unyielding belief in hard work. Often faced with challenges, she pushes through frustrations, vowing never to give up. A notable quirk is her habit of cheering herself on with positive affirmations, and she frequently uses the catchphrase "I won’t back down!" This mindset not only motivates her but also encourages those around her to push their limits.
Abilities / Powers
In terms of abilities, Special Week excels in stamina and speed, reflecting her real-world counterpart’s achievements on the racetrack. Her primary weapon is her determination, which allows her to give her all in every race. Over time, she develops a greater understanding of horse racing tactics and teamwork, which enhance her performance. However, her primary limitation lies in her occasional overexertion due to her fighting spirit, which can lead to fatigue during critical moments in races.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Special Week’s journey is one of self-discovery and growth as she strives to achieve her dream of becoming a top horse girl. A pivotal moment occurs in Episode 5, where she faces defeat for the first time, prompting her to reflect on her racing strategy and how to improve. This serves as a turning point, leading her to focus not only on her speed but also on her mental approach to racing. By the end of the series, Special Week’s development is marked by her newfound maturity and strategic racing skills, culminating in her participation in the prestigious Tokyo Race.
Notable Relationships
Special Week’s significant relationships shape much of her story. Her mentor figure is the seasoned horse girl Silence Suzuka, who inspires Special Week to push her boundaries. Additionally, her companionship with other horse girls, particularly her teammate Gold Ship, showcases a supportive dynamic that helps her grow. While she does face rivals, such as Mejiro McQueen, these interactions serve to motivate her rather than lead to hostility, highlighting the sense of camaraderie among the horse girls.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable scenes occurs in Episode 10, where Special Week finally achieves her long-awaited victory, leading to an emotional culmination of her journey. Her exclamation, "This is just the beginning!" resonates with viewers, symbolizing her spirit and the aspirations of many who watch her journey. Another iconic moment is during her training montage, where she loudly proclaims her intent to "run faster than the wind," which encapsulates her relentless ambition and determination.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Special Week has gained a significant fanbase, evidenced by her rank in the Uma Musume fan polls, where she has frequently appeared among the top characters. Her voice in the Japanese version is performed by actress and singer Yuuki Takada, while in the English dubbed version, her character is voiced by Vika S. Note that in racing culture within Japan, horse girls symbolize the hope and dreams associated with racing success, a theme that Special Week embodies throughout the series. Additionally, her design and characterization draw inspiration from the racehorse Special Week, who has won numerous accolades in the real world, further establishing her connection to genuine equestrian culture.
Special Week’s role in Uma Musume: Pretty Derby not only entertains but also inspires viewers with themes of resilience, camaraderie, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
