Super Aero Clinches Thrilling Nose-to-Nose Victory to Win 7th Kimhae Mayor's Cup

Tanaka and Trainer Rice Duo
Claim Their First Major Race Victory

On October 19, at the Korea Racing Authority Let's Run Park Busan Gyeongnam, the 7th Kimhae Mayor's Cup (Listed, 1,200m) took place. In a thrilling nose-to-nose finish (0.1-21cm), "Super Aero," ridden by jockey Tanaka, owned by Kang Bonghan and trained by Rice, was the first to cross the finish line.

Kimhae Mayor's Cup Award Ceremony. Provided by Korea Racing Authority Let's Run Park Busan-Gyeongnam

The Kimhae Mayor's Cup is the second leg of the "Juvenile Series," which determines the top two-year-old domestic horse. In this race, "Wild Park," the winner of the Gangseo District Mayor's Cup in September, was considered a strong favorite. "Funny Wild," who had achieved an overwhelming victory by 11 lengths in its debut, was also highly anticipated.

At the starting signal, "Wild Park," drawn in the outermost gate, broke quickly to take the lead. Although "Super Aero" had a slightly delayed start, it soon accelerated along the inside rail. The two horses formed the leading pack from the outset, engaging in a tense head-to-head battle.

The race was decided in the final straight. "Super Aero," holding its position on the inside until the end, edged out "Wild Park" by a nose to cross the finish line first. The recorded time was 1 minute 12.7 seconds. With this victory, owner Kang Bonghan claimed his first career win, jockey Tanaka achieved his first domestic major race victory, and trainer Rice marked his second major race win since "Tuheonui Banseok."

The award ceremony was attended by Hong Taeyong, Mayor of Kimhae, and Kim Juseop, Chairman of the Urban Construction Committee of the Kimhae City Council, who offered their congratulations and encouragement.

A horse racing official commented, "This showdown between 'Super Aero' and 'Wild Park' was a race that truly excited fans after a long time," adding, "Both horses are showing clear signs of improvement, so another spectacular match is expected at next month's Breeders' Cup Rookie Race."

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