Veteran jockey Yu Seung-wan surpasses 600 career wins

Korea Racing Authority announced Thursday that Yu Seung-wan, a jockey based at Lets Run Park Seoul, has surpassed 600 career wins.

Yu clinched the milestone Sunday, guiding 3-year-old colt Chrysol Step across the finish line first in the sixth race (domestic rating 5, 1,700 meters) at Lets Run Park Seoul. The win came roughly two years and 10 months after Yu recorded his 500th career victory aboard Waltz's Queen on Jan. 13, 2024.

Yu made his debut in June 2007 and has competed at Seoul Racecourse for more than 19 years, establishing himself as a veteran of the sport. Since claiming his first major race title at the Segye Ilbo Cup in 2013, he has topped the podium in major races 15 times — seven of those wins in partnership with the mare Silver Wolf.

In 2023, Yu drew international attention when he rode Lara K from last place to a come-from-behind victory. That same year he posted a personal-best win rate of 15.2 percent on 54 wins.

On Sunday, the day he reached 600 wins, Yu also won the 15th Sports World Cup — the ninth race of the day — aboard Im Ro, bringing his tally to 601 career wins. His cumulative record as of that day stands at 601 wins, 539 second-place finishes and 636 third-place finishes from 6,459 starts.

Reflecting on the milestone, Yu said his guiding principle had been to ride each race to the fullest within the conditions and the horse's ability, leaving no room for regret. "I think that's what allowed me to consistently build up my win count," he said.

He also acknowledged difficult stretches in his career. "There were slumps, but the support I received each time gave me strength," he said. "I will continue to give my best. I am always grateful."