On a Sunday afternoon filled with excitement for juvenile fillies, both Seoul and Busan witnessed standout performances. While the heavily favored Baekduui Kkum showcased professionalism to secure victory on the south coast, the capital had a surprise winner as 23/1 outsider Geoljak One emerged triumphant.
In Seoul’s Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy (1200M KOR-Listed), Eclipse Berry, previously tested against strong contenders like Lala K and Nice Time, was the even-money favorite. Despite starting from a wide gate, Eclipse Berry, ridden by Moon Se-young, positioned herself well throughout the race. However, the surprise came from Geoljak One, guided skillfully by jockey Lee Hyeok. Geoljak One made a decisive move in the final furlong, winning by half a length over Eclipse Berry, with 30/1 long shot Wonpyeong List finishing a close 3rd.
Geoljak One, sired by Cowboy Cal and out of the Vicar mare Joy Lucky, demonstrated her racing lineage. Joy Lucky, the dam, had a successful career in Korea, winning ten out of twenty starts, including the G3 Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup in 2013. Geoljak One’s owner, Park Deok-hui, and trainer, Park Youn-gu, played key roles in her development.
Meanwhile, at Busan in the Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Trophy (1200M KOR-Listed), Baekduui Kkum’s impressive resume set her apart. With previous victories in the Rookie and Areumdaun Jilju Stakes against male competitors, Baekduui Kkum, the 1.3 favorite, took charge under jockey Franco Da Silva. She comfortably led throughout the race, securing a three-length victory in the home straight. Perfect Action, an 18/1 contender, claimed the 2nd spot, while 50/1 outsider Road Star finished a further four lengths behind in 3rd.
Baekduui Kkum, concluding her juvenile campaign with four wins in six starts, hails from the first Korean crop of Uncaptured, a new KRA stallion. Out of the Discreet Cat mare Baekdu Cat, Baekduui Kkum is owned and bred by Hong Kyung-pyo and trained by Lee Sang-young.