'Vincero Cavallo' Wins Busan Ilbo Cup for Second Consecutive Year...Captures First Leg of Sprinter Series

'Vincero Cavallo' secured victory in the 20th Busan Ilbo Cup (G3·1200m), held at Let's Run Park Busan-Gyeongnam on March 8, passing the first hurdle of the Sprinter Series. With this win, Vincero Cavallo raised the Busan Ilbo Cup trophy for the second consecutive year.

The Busan Ilbo Cup marks the starting point of the Sprinter Series, which determines the best short-distance racehorse of the year. From before the race, anticipation was high as numerous top contenders who had been preparing for the 1200m stage since last year participated in the event.

In particular, since 2018, racehorses from Seoul had claimed victory in the Busan Ilbo Cup for seven consecutive years, with the trophy heading to Seoul each time. However, this year, the Busan-Gyeongnam-based "Winner Clear" emerged as a strong contender, making the regional rivalry a key point of interest. Additionally, the defending champion Vincero Cavallo, who achieved the Sprinter Triple Crown last year, was seeking to defend his title, further raising fans' expectations.

The race unfolded differently than expected. Immediately after the start, "Bondia" surged ahead with explosive speed, taking the lead and opening up a three-length gap, shaking up the race with a surprising breakaway. Meanwhile, Vincero Cavallo remained calm in fourth place until the final turn, closely observing the flow and waiting for the right opportunity.

The outcome was decided on the home stretch. As Winner Clear launched a late charge, Vincero Cavallo seized the moment about 50 meters before the finish line, breaking through between Bondia and Fantastic Kingdom to take the lead and secure a comeback victory. Ultimately, Vincero Cavallo crossed the finish line first, becoming the Busan Ilbo Cup champion for the second year in a row. Winner Clear also demonstrated competitiveness by surging to second place with a focused finish, but fell short of taking the top spot.

This win carried significance beyond records. Vincero Cavallo is a racehorse with a special connection, having been the only horse inherited by owner Kim Hyungang from his late father, the previous owner Kim Inkyu. After a long hiatus, Vincero Cavallo made a strong comeback in this year's Busan Ilbo Cup, once again showcasing the prowess of a sprint champion.

After the victory, jockey Joo Jaero said, "I was worried last year when the horse showed signs of fatigue toward the end of the series, but thanks to the stable’s dedicated care and sufficient rest, we achieved a great result. I am delighted to have met such a great horse in my ten years as a jockey. I can confidently say he is the best, whether in Seoul or Busan." He added, "The owner passed away, and while we won the same major race two years in a row with the same horse, it was emotional not having him there."

Trainer Seo Inseok also shared, "Many horses were closing in, but I trusted Vincero Cavallo's outstanding ability. This year as well, we will strive for great results based on teamwork, just as we did last year."

Vincero Cavallo, who got off to a strong start in the Sprinter Series with the Busan Ilbo Cup, is set to continue the challenge at the SBS Sports Sprint in April and the Seoul Owners' Association Chairman's Cup in May. All eyes are on whether he can achieve the Sprinter Triple Crown for a second consecutive year.

Winning horse Vincero Cavallo and jockey Jae Ro Cho are celebrating their victory.

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