Asano Set for South Korean Riding Contract

Popular jockey Kozzi Asano is poised for an exciting career move as he prepares to embark on a new chapter in South Korea with the Korean Racing Authority (KRA). Having secured a riding contract, Asano, who has enjoyed eight successful seasons in New Zealand with 335 wins and over $9.3 million in prizemoney, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming challenge. "I've been granted a license to ride in Korea, though I'm still deciding on the duration," Asano told NZ Racing Desk. "While prizemoney in New Zealand is increasing, I've always wanted to experience racing overseas." The 29-year-old Japanese native developed a close bond with former New Zealand jockey Masa Tanaka, now in South Korea, who encouraged Asano to join him. "Masa Tanaka is a good friend, and he's already there," Asano explained. "He mentioned there might be an opportunity for me." Although he has yet to visit South Korea, Asano eagerly anticipates competing in the Asian racing circuit, based primarily in Seoul. He noted the logistical advantage of fewer travel demands compared to New Zealand, where he's used to extensive travel between tracks. Asano, accompanied by his wife Adele and their five-month-old son, plans to depart for Japan for a long-overdue visit with family and friends before settling in South Korea. Reflecting on his successful season in New Zealand with 64 wins, he looks forward to adding to his tally before transitioning abroad.

Kozzi Asano after riding 5 winners on the card (pic: Grant Matthew Race Images)