Raonforest Claims Surprise Victory in KNN Cup... The Unexpected Star of the Queens Tour Series

Raonforest claimed victory in the 18th KNN Cup (1600m, G3), staging a dramatic come-from-behind win against strong favorites. The winning time was 1 minute 38.6 seconds.

The race, held on June 1 at Korea Racing Authority LetsRun Park Busan Gyeongnam, was the final leg of the first half of the Queens Tour Series. Last year's series champion, Joyful Journey, and the strong contender Wonderful Slew drew significant attention. Despite being only the fourth most popular pick in the betting rankings, Raonforest managed to overtake the competition with 100 meters left to the finish line and secured first place.

At the front of the pack, Gladius?the winner of the first leg of the series, the Dong-A Ilbo Cup?set a strong early pace, while other key contenders pursued from the outside. Raonforest remained at the back of the field until the middle of the race but surged forward with an explosive final sprint, overtaking second-place Bangbangbang to cross the finish line first.

Raonforest, trained by Park Jonggon and belonging to Seoul Stable No. 1, continues the legacy of top mares in the Raon lineage, following Raonfirst and Raonthespurt, and representing Raonga. Although Raonforest had previously finished runner-up three times during past trips to Busan, leaving some disappointment, this victory reaffirmed her reputation as a 'Busan powerhouse.'

The overall series championship went to Joyful Journey, who accumulated 660 points, while Raonforest finished second with 600 points.

Winning horse Raonforest and jockey Beomhyun Choi celebrating victory. Photo by Korea Racing Authority LetsRun Park Busan Gyeongnam

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.