KOREA RACING REPORT: FEBRUARY 6-8

SEOUL – February 9, 2026 – Luke Humphreys & Alastair Middleton

The weekend’s feature race saw potentially big Sprint Series implications while a challenger approaches on the Triple Crown trail and a young filly made an impressive return.

The very final race of the weekend was the only Class 1, and it was billed as a showdown between MAGIC POTION and WONPYEONG STORM, both with aspirations of getting a place in the gate for the Busan Ilbo Sprint, the first leg of the Sprint Series next month.

When that 1200M feature finally took place on a bitterly cold Sunday in the capital city the face off never happened as Wonpyeong Storm missed the kick and Magic Potion hovered but ultimately offered little as WOW WOW (Cowboy Cal) led from gate-to-wire to score by a length from SPEED ONE at odds of 9.1 locally. The Song Jae-chul ridden seven-year-old recorded his seventh career win on his thirty-second start. Also in the race, the 2022 Korea Sprint winner EOMA EOMA, like Wow Wow also sporting the Nasca colours, but like Wonpyeong Storm the now nine-year-old was never a factor.

In earlier races, ACE K (Cupid) tackled the 1800M for the first time at class 3 level having gone no further than1400M before, but the extra quarter mile proved no problem as he raced on the pace throughout and won by an extending 13 lengths over 2.6 favourite Tanseongui Banseok. His co-favourite FLYING CRUISER was the big disappointment, finishing a long last.

GOLD CATCHER (Cowboy Cal) bounced back to winning ways when winning race 8 (1400M Class 4) for Johan Victoire and Luigi Riccardi. The four-year-old filly had never missed the top four placings prior to her previous start and proved way too good with a front-running three-length victory. The previously unbeaten SAMJEONG SPIDER started a 1.4 favourite but was a never nearer 5th after not the best of beginnings.

Also on form was PERFECT DANAEUN (Freedom Child) with a six-length score in race 7 (1600M Class 4). He had taken out four in a row before coming up against Di Ne last month but under Ruan Maia, this time he was untroubled by his rivals to take his overall record to five wins from twelve starts.

MAEUM HANA (Gaon Champ) made it two victories in a row with a front-running victory for jockey CC Wong and trainer Choi Yong-geon in race 5. The three-year-old colt recorded a time of 1:20.1 in the class 5 and looks progressive going on his five-length victory.

AMOS CHEONHA (To Honor And Serve) completed a double for that jockey-trainer combination, and was the first of two winners for owner Hong Ae Ran, when coming from well back to score in the following 1800M Class 5. He missed the break for the second consecutive start and whilst it did his chances no good it didn’t make a difference as he pulled victory from out of the fire by an extending length and a half.

RAON THE PLUMA (Indie Band), GRACE DAY (Race Day) and JAZZ PURPLE (Hansen) could be horses to follow going forward on their respective victories in the opening three races on the card which were all Class 6 contests.

THERE WAS A SEVEN-RACE CARD AT BUSAN ON SUNDAY AND CLEARLY WINNER (Hansen) resumed from five months away from the races with a stress fracture to win impressively in race 6 (1400M Class 4). 

The Park Jae-i ridden Kim Hye-sun prepared three-year-old filly raced on the pace throughout before roaring away in the straight to record a facile five-length success. 

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 8)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55, and at Busan with 7 races from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

2022 Korea Sprint winner Eoma Eoma is back for a campaign as a 9yo (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only in the opening maiden. (8) CALL ME SKY ran 2nd on debut to Holly Tiara in a quick similar filly maiden over this distance on December 13th. She’s had eight weeks off since but she can improve for the run and will be a short-price favourite to win here. (1) STUNNING POINT was an improved 5th at start two over this distance. She continues under an apprentice claim and from a better draw than in her first two outings, can get closer. (5) MISS CHRISTIE and (4) RAON THE PLUMA similarly improved to 5th on their respective second appearances and both can be fitter here. Continuing the theme of finishing 5th, (6) BEAT CODE did that on debut and can have come on for that effort.

Selections(8) Call Me Sky (1) Stunning Point (5) Miss Christie (4) Raon The Pluma
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden. (7) BANK LINE has made steady progress across three starts so far with her close 2nd last time out over this distance being her best. She led that day and from a fair draw, she can lead again and this time go all the way. (1) GRACE DAY has similarly raced three times and comes in following a 2nd place last time out when he was slower away than in his first two but ran on well. He shapes as the main danger here. (11) SEOPOKCHAT came from well off the pace to run 3rd on January 11th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can challenge late. (9) HAKSAN HENNY and (3) BEOLGYO EMPEROR among plenty of others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Bank Line (1) Grace Day (11) Seopokchat (9) Haksan Henny
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) TRICK SHOT has led in his latest two for 2nd and 3rd at this distance, most recently beating three of today’s rivals on January 11th. He should get an easier run to the front here and will be favoured to go all the way. (11) MAGIC HAMMER was 4th in that race on January 11th. He has the challenge again of the widest gate and doesn’t get an apprentice claim this time, but third-up he can be peaking and he can run on strongly. (9) QUEEN WIND was an on pace 2nd at start number two over this distance on January 9th. She can show on pace again and once more be in this a long way. (2) BRAVE RUN and (10) MOST WANTED are the other main chances.

Selections(1) Trick Shot (11) Magic Hammer (9) Queen Wind (2) Brave Run
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Not the strongest of maidens. (5) SANGIM YEONGUNG will need his latest forgiven which was the worst of his four starts to date. Before that he registered three top four finishes, coming from off the pace each time, and similar efforts to those can see him win this. (9) K N STORM ran 4th over 1200M on January 3rd, coming from a long way back to beat a couple of today’s rivals. The same apprentice keeps his weight light and he can challenge here. (4) JAZZ PURPLE hinted at an uptick in form with a front running 5th at 1300M at the end of December. He is up to 1400M for the first time but can be on pace again and in this a long way. (7) TRIPLE S and veteran (1) P N S PA in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Sangim Yeongung (9) K N Storm (4) Jazz Purple (7) Triple S
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 7)

The temperature has plunged again just in time for the weekend’s racing. There are 11 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on experience and (6) SEOUL BIHAENG, who after a quick trial led on debut over 1200M on January 10th before ultimately running 2nd. He should have come on for that run and has every chance here. (5) GWANAKSAN SKY will probably be the favourite. He was a strong trial winner, leading all the way and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (4) BREEDO AQUA ran 3rd in her trial in a decent time while (3) RACE DIVA was a very close 2nd. Both can put in bold showings first up. (8) CHEONDUNGUI JILJU is the next best going on trial efforts.  

Selections(6) Seoul Bihaeng (5) Gwanaksan Sky (4) Breedo Aqua (3) Race Diva
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) WITH DORTIE didn’t do much on debut in December but she was a much-improved 2nd at start number two over 1300M on January 3rd when settling midfield and running on. Third-up she can be peaking and the extra half furlong can be what she needs to get over the line. (9) GLORY JOY was only 6th in his latest appearance but before that registered a 2nd and a 3rd and with the former having come at this distance, that’s enough to have him in the numbers here. (4) DOUBLE BLADE and (5) BROWN SUGAR look to be figuring things out having both finished 5th at their respective latest starts and similar efforts can see them closer in this company. (1) AMOS CHOEGANG another who can improve.

Selections(2) With Dortie (9) Glory Joy (4) Double Blade (5) Brown Sugar
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) POWERFUL IMPACT has taken very well to 1700M, registering a 2nd and a 3rd in two outings since being stepped up to the trip. From a great draw he can sit on the speed or handy and today should his day. (7) STORM LIGHT was an improved 2nd at 1400M at start number three on January 10th. She steps up to two turns for the first time, and it can suit. (6) ECLIPSE BAY enters off a 6th and a 5th from his latest two, both over this trip and both times behind Powerful Impact. He led in those races and can lead again here and be in things a long way. (10) GOLDEN MAKER and (11) SPICE BAND are other place chances.

Selections(4) Powerful Impact (7) Storm Light (6) Eclipse Bay (10) Golden Maker
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(9) CHEONGSAN DOLPUNG is yet to win in four, but he has three 2nd places to his name with the latest coming at this class and distance on January 3rd when handy throughout and beaten by a good winner. He only comes up 1kg in weight and can sit handy again and this time go one better. (2) TIGER BULPAE is similarly a maiden but has a 3rd and two 2nd places from three outings so far at 1000M and 1200M. She comes up in class but is down in weight, she draws nicely, and she can measure up. Continuing the maiden theme, (5) MIRACLE SOCKS has four runner-up finishes but weakened when tried at 1400M last time out. Back in trip and with Maia staying on, he is a chance. (4) RAON SNIPER and (1) CRAZY MANGO others to consider on a place line.

Selections(9) Cheongsan Dolpung (2) Tiger Bulpae (5) Miracle Socks (4) Raon Sniper
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-by-Race Preview (February 6)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. (2) NICE MYEONGGA went through two trials, showing decent pace in both and a bit more maturity in the second when she overcame a wide gate to beat a couple of today’s rivals. From a great draw she can be on pace and she can win. Of the experience, (4) BULBIT YEONGMA was longest shot but one on the board on debut over 1200M on January 9th but he outperformed expectations to settle behind the speed and run on for 4th. With some natural improvement, he can be closer here. (5) DONNAEKO and (1) WILD JUMP hinted at ability in their respective trials and can be competitive first-up. (8) HELLO GOOD was well back in a painfully slow race on debut but can improve.

Selections(2) Nice Myeongga (4) Bulbit Yeongma (5) Donnaeko (1) Wild Jump
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) KING BLACK didn’t do much on debut in October but has since run 4th in two starts at 1200M and 1400M. The times haven’t been quick, but he has been competitive and in this company he can settle just behind the speed and has as good a chance as any. (8) FLYING SHOOTER ran 2nd over this trip in December and comes in off a 4th place when drawn widest on January 25th. He makes a quick return here and with a 4kg claim can be close. (2) BREEDO QUEEN STAR has a pair of 5th places and a 3rd from her latest three and with Franco on for the first time can be in the mix from a good draw. (12) DOCTOR CARRY and (10) HIGH LEVEL other place chances.

Selections(9) King Black (8) Flying Shooter (2) Breedo Queen Star (12) Doctor Carry
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start3, 6, 11, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) BAMTORI BAMBAM has made progress across three starts so far with a 4th, 3rd and most recently a 2nd place at this distance on Boxing Day. Despite the wide draw expect to see him on pace and he can win here. (11) FANTASTIC SANTA was 5th in debut and then 2nd at start number two over this distance on January 9th when racing on pace. He has the challenge of the widest gate here, but he can get forward early and has every chance. (9) SEONGSIL WORLD beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to a much-improved 2nd place on January 2nd and he can build on that here. (3) BIROE SERVE and (5) GAMDONGUI BAKSU others in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Bamtori Bambam (11) Fantastic Santa (9) Seongsil World (3) Biroe Serve
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 7, 10, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(1) OASIS WICKY was a winner back on debut and has been close to following up with two 3rd places and a 2nd from his latest three, all at 1300M and last time beating a couple of today’s rivals when not far away at all from the same gate he has here. He can settle behind the speed and will be favourite here. (5) FLASH RUN was 5th in last year’s Korean Oaks but hasn’t raced since August. She looked well when a close 2nd in a January trial, showing on pace throughout, and Seo Seung-un being booked suggests confidence first-up (7) BULBIT GANGJA got his maiden win at start number four over 1200M on January 2nd, racing on pace throughout. The win had been coming and while he is up in class today, he can measure up. (11) GAMDONGUI DOLPA and the veteran (12) DAEHOMA others who can compete for the minors.

Selections(1) Oasis Wicky (5) Flash Run (7) Bulbit Gangja (11) Gamdongui Dolpa
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 1)

February kicks off with Sunday meetings at both Seoul (10 races from 10:35 to 17:55) and Busan (7 races from 11.25 to 16:55). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) SUPER TTANGKONG ran a fair 4th on debut over this distance on December 27th showing handy throughout. She should have come on for that run and form a good draw she won’t need to improve very much to win this. (1) RAON KINGSMAN was 5th in both his first two starts before weakening over 1300M late on last time out. In this company he should get a soft run to the front and can go close. Both (9) VINCENT ALEX and (11) PARKA SHINE come in following improved 4th place finishes on their respective latest outings, and both should be aiming to match or better that here. The three debut-makers didn’t really catch the eye in trials with (10) ONLY YOU looking the better of them.

Selections(4) Super Ttangkong (1) Raon Kingsman (9) Vincent Alex (11) Parka Shine
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) COMEBACK HOLYMOELY has made progress across his three starts so far with a 4th, 3rd and most recently a 2nd place on December 13th when he led for most of the way over this distance before being beaten by Haksan Sword. He draws well on the inside to lead again, and he is favoured to go one better. (4) SUPERDAY has similarly showed plenty with three top four finishes in three starts. He was a close 2nd over 1300M on December 28th and should be firmly in this. (3) ROAD TO HEAT was 3rd in that race having led. He’s been 3rd in both starts and should be there or thereabouts again from on the pace. (9) PARAIBA and (5) SEMYEONG PEAK others in the frame in a competitive race.

Selections(1) Comeback Holymoely (4) Superday (3) Road To Heat (9) Paraiba
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) PORT MORE comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd over 1400M on January 9th, showing handy throughout. He comes up to the mile for the first time but there is no reason why it can’t suit, Seo Seung-un stays on, and he will be favourite. (2) DOROTHY QUEEN enters off a career best 3rd when beating several of today’s rivals at this distance on January 18th and in this company can be aiming to match or better that here. (7) BREEDO CAPTAIN was 4th in that race. He also has a 2nd on his record at this distance and that’s enough to have him in contention today. (4) CARAT KING and (5) K ROYAL other minor money chances.

Selections(9) Port More (2) Dorothy Queen (7) Breedo Captain (4) Carat King
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) START UP was a winner on debut over 1000M in September and then returned in November to run 2nd at this class over 1200M. He makes his first start here in twelve weeks so he comes in fresh and while match fitness may be a question, he seems to have plenty of ability. (6) YONGBI SHINHWA is yet to win in six attempts but got promoted to this level with back-to-back runner-up finishes at this distance before running 4th on his first try at this class when unable to lead early as he likes. In this company he can get to the front and he can be in this a long way. (1) HAKSAN SWORD got a bit too far back early on January 10th but was a good winner in December (beating Comeback Holymoely who we should have seen in race 2) and he can get another chance here. (7) MUNHAK FIGHTER and (3) SMART HAESEONG others in the frame.

Selections(11) Start Up (6) Yongbi Shinhwa (1) Haksan Sword (7) Munhak Fighter
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start5, 6, 7 ,11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) POWERFUL RUBY will be favourite. After winning a trial she did nothing on debut but was a much better 4th at start two on January 2nd when handy throughout. She should have come on for that run and third-up she can be nice and fit for this. Speaking of doing nothing on debut, that applies to (2) CLUTCH RUNNER. He previously trialed well and Franco, who rode him in those heats but not on debut, climbing on catches the eye. (12) DIA X has plenty of experience and this is the kind of race he shouldn’t be far away in. (5) WORLD TRIPLE CAT and (10) QUEEN THE GOLD other place chances.  

Selections(4) Powerful Ruby (2) Clutch Runner (12) Dia X (5) World Triple Cat
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 31)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) COWBOY SOCKS was green on debut but still ran well for 4th place and was an improved 3rd at start two over 1200M on December 6th when finishing off very well. The slight step up in trip can suit, and she can win. (7) WINNER’S BLUE led for much of the way around on December 27th before ultimately running 3rd. He should have come on for the run and from a good gate can lead again and be in this a long way. Among the first timers, (2) MONEY MOVE and (11) DELTA EAGLE both hinted at ability in their trials and can be considered first up. (3) DONGBAEK was a fair 6th of twelve on debut and can improve.

Selections(9) Cowboy Socks (7) Winner’s Blue (2) Money Move (11) Delta Eagle
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7,

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) WISHMASTER has a 6th and a 5th from two starts so far, most recently at 1300M on December 28th when showing on pace. Third-up he can be nice and fit, and he has as good a chance as any here. (8) ROAD TO PERFECT ran 4th on debut over this distance on January 13th. He was a long way back behind a good winner but showed enough to indicate potential and he can go closer today. (11) CHAOS took three goes to qualify but when he finally did, he showed on pace in his trial and stopped the clock in a decent time. If he brings that form to the races, he will be competitive. (5) NIGHT GANGJA and (6) YEONDONG STAR others who could feature.

Selections(10) Wishmaster (8) Road To Perfect (11) Chaos (5) Night Gangja
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start1, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) MYUNG BRACING has improved across three starts so far, culminating in a close 2nd place at 1300M on December 21st. He has proven able to run well form on or off the pace and from a good draw, he can go one better today. (9) FIVE STAR has four finishes between 3rd and 5th with his latest two being over this distance. He likes to settle back and run on, and he will be challenging late here. (1) COSMO LONG has steadily improved over three outings to date, most recently a 3rd to Myung Bracing’s 2nd in that December 21st race. Coming into the inside gate, he should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (10) EUNHA KALAS and (4) CHEONGRYONG GIUN others in the frame.

Selections(3) Myung Bracing (9) Five Star (1) Cosmo Long (10) Eunha Kalas
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) JD GANGJA ran 4th and 5th in a pair of Listed Juvenile races before being down the field in the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie. He kicked off his three-year-old campaign by beating a few of these on his way to 3rd place at this class and distance on January 4th and he should have too much for this lot. (4) HAKSAN PRINCE got a long way back in that January 4th race before running on too late. He does have a 2nd place at this class and distance to his name as recently as November though and warrants another chance today. (2) MASTER KWAIGON returned from nine months out to get his maiden win over 1300M in December before finishing 6th on January 4th. Third-up this preparation he can be peaking and can get closer. (8) GOLD SPINNING and (6) HOLY KAISER among plenty of other chances.

Selections(5) JD Gangja (4) Haksan Prince (2) Master Kwaigon (8) Gold Spinning
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(3) CHAM BBAREUN MAL is yet to win but got promoted to this level after finishing 2nd in both his first two starts. He took a couple of goes to get accustomed to class 5 but enters off a solid 3rd place at 1200M on January 11th. A previous try at this distance saw him lead and then weaken but he could be ready for another go. (1) MONEY FOUR SEASON did nothing in his first five outings but being stepped up to two turns has been the making of him with a 2nd and then a win from his two tries at it. He is up in class but down in weight and he can measure up. (10) CUPID WORLD is yet to finish in the top two in fourteen tires but has seven finishes between 3rd and 5th and should be there or thereabouts again. (11) SUBMISSION and (6) BLUE RAIN other place chances.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 30)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 9-race card from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens only and despite the small field, it’s very competitive. (1) DUBAI SEONMUL ran 2nd on debut over 1200M) on December 28th having been slowly away before running on well. Seo Seung-un is on today, the additional half furlong can suit, and with a better start, she is the one to beat. (3) FAST WIND was a close 2nd on debut in a fair time over 1200M on December 19th, settling midfield and running on. He should have come on for that run and is a danger. (6) BUNKER BUSTER was a beaten favourite on debut in that December 28th race behind Dubai Seonmul and he can match or better that here. (2) QUEEN MAKER and (8) SUNRISE both finished in 2nd place in their respective debuts and are not to be dismissed.

Selections(1) Dubai Seonmul (3) Fast Wind (6) Bunker Buster (2) Queen Maker
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Pretty wretched from all of these so far but that does at least make it interesting from a puzzle perspective. (2) DOCTOR CHAMP has a best of 6th in three starts but has looked ok in trials. He has had ample opportunity for them and if he brings the form he showed in a heat last week to the races, he has as good a chance as any from a good draw. (12) POWERFUL THUNDER has a 5th and a 7th in two starts so far. The times were slow, but he seems to at least know which direction he is supposed to run in and that puts him in contention here. Of two debut-makers, (10) MAN OF THE DAY is perhaps the best. He was adequate in his trial and Franco’s booking catches the eye. (5) POWERFUL BATTLE and (7) CHOEGANG CHEETAH, the latter beating Man Of The Day in their trial before debuting without distinction although was at least on pace early, others who can improve.

Selections(2) Doctor Champ (12) Powerful Thunder (10) Man Of The Day (5) Powerful Battle
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 7, 11, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) LIKE DRAGON is an eleven-start maiden but has been close in his recent efforts, most recently beating three of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd at this distance on January 4th when handy throughout. The same apprentice keeps him under a light weight, and a similar effort can see him win this. (3) TOP OF THE RANK has weakened in both his latest two at a mile and from a good draw and back in trip he can lead and stay on a bit better this time. (2) DOKKI TIGER didn’t do much at start number two at this trip on Boxing Day but previously hinted at ability when 5th on debut and can be given another chance here. (11) BREEDO ARENA and (9) WONDERFUL WIND are others to consider.

Selections(4) Like Dragon (3) Top Of The Rank (2) Dokki Tiger (11) Breedo Arena
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(6) BORYEONGUI SINYONG debuted in 4th place last August and then won over 1200M on November 28th, coming from off the pace. She was much further forward when beating three of today’s rivals when 3rd on her first try at this class and distance on January 2nd. She remains under a light weight and can win here. (3) MOMENTUM got her maiden win at start number three over this distance in a filly maiden won Boxing Day, racing on the pace throughout. She is up in class but down in weight and from a good draw she can be at the front again and can measure up. (10) YOUNGYOUNG BRAVO is similarly up in class having overcome a wide gate to race handy and win over 1300M, also on Boxing Day. He gets a 3kg weight break and the slight step up in trip shouldn’t be a problem. (8) GLOBAL HIGH gets a line through his latest and along with (9) SUCCESS COW, is another place chance.

Selections(6) Boryeongui Sinyong (3) Momentum (10) Youngyoung Bravo (8) Global High
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 25)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55 and at Busan with 7 races from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Geudaemaniddamyeon kicks off his 3yo campaign at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Three-year-old maidens and (9) SEVEN KAISER will be the hot favourite. In four starts, he has never been worse than 4th and he comes in off his best finish when 2nd over this distance at the end of November. He has led in all his races so far and should do the same here and this time he probably won’t be caught. (7) DELTA DAECHEON was an improved 5th at start number two on December 14th, settling handy and running on. She still has scope for more progress and can be closer here. (4) THUNDER RUN was a close 4th having led on January 3rd over 1300M. He has been in promising positions in almost all his races without managing to quite see them out so coming back to 1200M and into a good gate can be a benefit, as can Kozzi getting back on. (6) RAON THE BEONGAE and (2) CHEONG WOL others who could challenge for a place.

Selections(9) Seven Kaiser (7) Delta Daecheon (4) Thunder Run (6) Raon The Beongae
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) EUNBIT YUHOK has made steady progress across her four starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on December 28th when settling midfield early before being ridden up to the speed on the turn. In this company he can sit just behind the early leaders and can go one better. (4) CHEONJI TANK has a 4th and a 3rd from two starts so far, both at 1200M and with clear improvement in his second. Third-up, he should be nice and fit and he is a danger. (6) BLAZING ENGINE was a solid 2nd on debut over 1200M on December 27th and while it wasn’t a quick race, CC staying on will tempt plenty. (1) FLYING THUNDER and (3) X-TEN are other place chances.

Selections(2) Eunbit Yuhok (4) Cheonji Tank (6) Blazing Engine (1) Flying Thunder
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Two standouts. (10) OASIS YOUNG was 2nd on debut over 1000M in August and then returned at the end of November to run 3rd at this distance, leading both times. He comes in relatively fresh again following eight weeks off, and while he draws a touch wider than ideal, he can win. The danger draws better in the shape of (4) SOMETHING ELSE. After a solid 4th on debut in June, he didn’t race again until December and has recorded a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts back, most recently at this distance in a slow race on January 4th. Third up he can be very fit and has every chance. (11) FLYING SHOOTER beat Something Else when the pair ran 2nd and 3rd at this distance on December 5th and while the former has raced twice since without doing much, he must be given a chance in this company. (2) OVER RAINBOW and (1) MORE QUICKLY others in the hunt.

Selections(10) Oasis Young (4) Something Else (11) Flying Shooter (2) Over Rainbow
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) JISAN LABEL has a 4th and a 2nd from two starts so far at 1200M and 1300M. He did his best work late both times so the significant step up in trip can be in his favour and with CC Wong climbing on for the first time, he can win. (9) MANGEUM CROWN ran 3rd on debut before finishing well back in Listed juvenile company in October. He then dropped back into shallower waters and up to 1700M for the first time on November 30th and ran 3rd again when ridden further forward than in his opening two appearances. That should stand him in good stead here and he is a big danger. (3) LUCKY JOY seems to be figuring things out with a 5th and a 4th from his latest two and beat a couple of today’s rivals in his most recent outing at 1400M. He comes up to two turns for the first time, and it may suit. (5) THE SUN COMING and (6) BLACK SUN are the other main chances.

Selections(10) Jisan Label (9) Mangeum Crown (3) Lucky Joy (5) The Sun Coming
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) ROAD TO ACE was going well in the first half of last year before a setback kept him out between June and December. Newly gelded he won a trial in November and then led on his return on December 19th over 1300M before weakening late on and finishing 7th. He comes back to a trip over which he has placed or won at every time and stripping fitter for that run a month ago, he can win. (9) DAEROUI BIT ran a close 3rd on her November debut before winning at start two on December 19th, leading all the way. She is up in class but carries a light weight and she can measure up. (10) BLACK JILJU beat three of today’s rivals on her way to a class and distance 3rd on January 2nd and she can be in the finish again. Veteran (2) DAEHOMA along with (1) JJAK SARANG are also in place contention.

Selections(11) Road To Ace (9) Daeroui Bit (10) Black Jilju (2) Daehoma
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(3) CLUTCH MAGIC was a winner at start two at the end of November before running 3rd behind Reverence, who almost broke the track record for 1300M on December 20th. He is up 2.5kg in weight, but he draws very well to lead, and he can win. The big danger is another up and comer. (10) HOLLY TIARA was a very close 2nd on debut before running out a four-length winner on December 13th at 1200M. She comes up in class and in distance here, but the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem as she has already dealt with it before, and under a light weight and with Maia up, she can win. (7) MACHEON WORLD remains a maiden but is up in class following a runner-up effort on December 20th at this distance. She is down 2.5kg in weight and can be competitive. (11) ECO WORLD and (1) HYEOKMYEONGUIJILJU are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(3) Clutch Magic (10) Holly Tiara (7) Macheon World (11) Eco World
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 24)

The worst of the cold snap which saw Thursday’s trials run in -12C conditions is hopefully over, and Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Very bright and very cold have been the prevailing conditions at Seoul lately

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener, with all but two racing for the first time. Those experienced two will be at the top of most tickets. (9) STUNNING DOLPHIN was 2nd on debut, going down by just over a length having been close to the pace throughout. She should have come on for that and can go one better today. (12) YONGWONHAN SOLEO also ran 2nd on her debut, finding a handy position from the same widest gate she draws today and then running on. She was nine-lengths behind a very nice-looking winner, but her time was good and she is the danger. As for the newcomers, (11) THE SUN STORY probably had the best trial and along with (5) CHEONGGANG BOM and (4) SEMYEONG HEIDI, may be the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(9) Stunning Dolphin (12) Yongwonhan Soleo (11) The Sun Story (5) Cheonggang Bom
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) IKKEULIM did nothing in two starts at the end of summer but after a couple of months out, he returned and won a trial in fine order, leading all the way, on January 8th. Maia is on and if he brings that effort to the races, he can win. (1) BEST CHEONHA was an improved 4th at start three over this distance on December 7th. He has raced on pace in each of his outings so far so from the inside gate he can be expected to be at the front early and in this a long way. (2) BEST A ONE was slowly away last time and didn’t do much but wasn’t miles off it two starts back when 5th at 1300M and that’s enough to have hi as a place chance here. (7) THE SUN MONSTER and (6) CHEONJI JACKAL could potentially improve.

Selections(9) Ikkeulim (1) Best Cheonha (2) Best A One (7) The Sun Monster
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) SU BU TAI has three top five finishes from five attempts with his best being his latest when he beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place over this distance on December 28th, settling midfield and running on. He’ll be favoured to score here. (4) BEAT FRESH was an improved 3rd at start two over this distance on December 27th. Third-up he can be peaking fitness-wise and the step up in trip can suit. (5) POMADE enters off a best to date 4th when tried at this distance for the first time on December 14th. He won’t need to get much better, if any, to place here. Those three will be on top of almost everybody’s ticket in some combination as the form (such that it is) drops off precipitously. (1) GEOSEN PUNCH and (2) ROAD TO SPEAR will probably be next in the market.

Selections(9) Su Bu Tai (4) Beat Fresh (5) Pomade (1) Geosen Punch
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(5) YEONHUI HERO will be a warm favourite. He comes in having won at this class in a very quick race over 1400M on December 13th when handy throughout. Two starts back he placed at this class and distance and with an apprentice claiming 4kg, he can win today. (3) SEOBU CHAMP was an also-ran in a Queens’ Tour race over 2000M last October but has a 4th and a 1st in two starts returning to shallower waters. The win was at this class over 1400M, but she is a two-time winner at this trip and like Yeonhui Hero, her light weight, brings her right into this. (7) GWANAKSAN LEO was 2nd at big odds on December 28th, at this class and distance and warrants some respect here. (8) ULTRA DRAGON and (9) WORLD BLAME others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Yeonhui Hero (3) Seobu Champ (7) Gwanaksan Leo (8) Ultra Dragon
Next Best9,6
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) MR.CARA has run 2nd in both his last two outings both at 1700M. That brings him up in class but there is little to fear here, the two turns seems to suit him, and he can measure up at what should be at least an each-way price. (3) TANGGEURI is yet to win in thirty-two starts but it’s not impossible that could change here. He has no fewer than eighteen top five finishes, including each of his last four, all at this class and distance, and this may be is best chance yet to come out on top. (11) SEUNGNI BAROWS was a touch disappointing last time out but was going well prior to that and can be given another chance on what is his first try at 1800M. (9) STEEPLE and (6) SAVANA CHARLIE are other place chances.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 23)

The weekend’s racing kicks off at Busan on Friday with 9-races from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Supex Winner (near side) won the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year old maidens with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (7) OASIS STAR is the only one in the field who has raced twice already, following up a 5th place on debut with a 3rd over this distance on January 2nd when slow away but running on. His times haven’t been quick, but he should have a fitness edge on his rivals. (8) DELTA FORCE wasn’t ready when trialed last summer but having been put away for a few months, he came through in fine order on December 13th, winning his heat in a quick time with a front-running effort. If he brings that to races, he has every chance first-up (3) VELOCI QUEEN was a fair 4th at big odds on debut having drawn the widest gate. She should have come on for that run. (9) TAESAN SHINHWA was 5th behind Oasis Star on debut and he too can improve. (12) VALUE PLAY looked well enough in his trial.

Selections (7) Oasis Star (8) Delta Force (3) Veloci Queen (9) Taesan Shinhwa
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (7) ZITA was an improved 3rd at start number two over 1300M on December 21st, racing handy and beating three of today’s rivals. Seo Seung-un climbs on and today can be the day. (11) WORLD EAGLE CAT comes in off a best to date 2nd at this distance on December 28th. It was a slow race, but she finished off well and the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem here. There are two debut makers and of them, (4) BEST VALUE looks the more likely to make an immediate impact. She was an on pace 2nd in her trial in a fair time and she draws well to lead here. (1) THEMIS and (8) YURIM CHANGA are among others who have hinted at ability and may improve.

Selections(7) Zita (11) World Eagle Cat (4) Best Value (1) Themis
Next Best8, 12
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) SMART YULIM enters off an improved 3rd at start number three over 1200M on December 21st, overcoming a slow start to run on well. The step up in trip can suit, and he has every chance here at what could be an each way price. (4) ONE PLUS ONE was only 6th from a wide draw last time out but going on his 2nd place in November at this distance, he must be taken seriously here and with Seo Seung-un getting on, he will probably start as the favourite.  (11) TAMNA BRAVO didn’t do much in his first two but has a 4th and a 3rd from his latest pair, most recently when stepped up to a mile on Boxing Day and leading for part of the way around. He beat a couple of today’s rivals in the process and while he draws a touch wider than ideal, he can be on pace and in this a long way. (2) JEONGMUN SKIP didn’t do much on debut in July but returned on January 2nd to run a solid 4th and should have come on for the run.  (10) FINAL ATTACK a minor money chance.

Selections(9) Smart Yulim (11) Tamna Bravo (4) One Plus One (2) Jeongmun Skip
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Competitive race. (7) GANGSEO TREND was a winner on debut over 1200M in October and followed it up with an on-pace 3rd on his first try at this class over 1300M on December 14th, beating two of today’s rivals. He will be on the speed again here and could go all the way. (5) SHINING ONE got his maiden win two starts back at 1300M before running 4th on the same race as Gangseo Trend on what for him too was his first try at this class. There was less than a length between them and he can be a danger here. (3) GEUMSEONG was 2nd to Shining World at class 6 level in November and then 3rd on his first try at this class and distance on December 19th. In this company, he should be on pace and can be in the finish. (4) CHAMPUI SIDAE and (8) ARION TAEYANG among plenty of others with chances.

Selections(7) Gangseo Trend (5) Shining One (3) Geumseong (4) Champui Sidae
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(10) BEOLMAUI GANGJA returned from four months out to get his maiden win at start three in December and then was a beaten favourite when 4th at this class and distance on January 2nd when slow away from the widest gate. The draw is scarcely better today but with a more fluent start, he is worth another chance. (7) COME ON GLORY is yet to win in sixteen attempts but her recent form reads well with a 2nd and two 4th place finishes from her latest three and she can be there or thereabouts again. (12) SEOGWI CREST was a winner on debut in November but was slightly slow away on her first try at this class on Boxing Day, rallying up for 5th. She carries a light weight and can be a danger here. (5) DOLPHIN KICK and (8) GRAND DREAM are the other placing chances.

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