Month: October 2016

KRA Cup Classic Day Preview

KRA Cup Classic day has dawned overcast in Seoul. Ten runners will go to post this afternoon for the 400 Million Won race with Clean Up Joy, 4th in this summer’s Busan Mayor’s Cup likely to be the favourite.

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Chief Red Can and Park Eul Woon won the KRA Cup Classic last year. They return for another try today (Pic: Ross Holburt)

The KRA Cup Classic is the highlight of an 11 race card at Seoul which runs from 10:40 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 12:50 to 17:05. English racecards are here. Notes on the three Sky Racing races, including the Classic are below:

Race 8: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap: Horses which are imported to Korea have to start at class 4 whereas those bred domestically can begin at class 6. Therefore Korea-bred horses who have made it up to this level are generally proven winners. That’s the case with (4) SUBAEKYANG, who has a 2nd and a 3rd from her last two and is favoured to score here with a late run. On speed will be (2) GYODUBO and (11) FLY WING. Both have won at this distance already and they look the main dangers. Also on speed early should be (1) KKUMUI CLUB who tries this distance for the first time and can go well. Also attempting the 1700M for the first time is (7) WANGUI DAERO, who is yet to score in eleven but has often come close and can beat plenty of these.

Selections: 4, 2, 11, 1
Next Best: 7, 6, 12, 3
Rating: 12, 2=4, 11, 7
Fast Starters: 2, 9, 11, 12
Start-200M: 12, 10, 1, 9, 11
200M-Finish: 12, 2, 7, 4, 1

Race 9: Class Open – The KRA Cup Classic (KOR G2) (2000M) Weight for Age: Big prize money on offer here and (9) CLEAN UP JOY is favoured to take it home. He’s the top-rated horse at Seoul and won his first three races this year before refistering a by no-means disgraced 4th place in a very tough Mayor’s Cup at Busan in July. On his return to the capital in August he was somewhat surprisingly beaten by (6) WINNING ANDY over 1400M but he was giving 8kg away and should overturn that under weight for age today. Clean Up Joy is expected to drop right to the back of the field early and then close strongly. His stablemate (2) CLEAN UP CHEONHA is two races into a comeback following a lengthy spell. Neither suited and he is expected to improve today. (3) BICHUI WANGJA was a gate to wire winner over this distance in July and while he disappointed, he should get an uncontested lead here and can be considered to stay all the way. (1) DYNAMIC JILJU, an also-ran in the Korea Cup last month and (10) CHIEF RED CAN, winner of this race in 2015, are others to be respected.

Selections: 9, 3, 1, 2
Next Best: 6, 1, 7, 5, 8, 4
Rating: 9, 2, 1, 10, 5
Fast Starters: 3
Start-200M: 2, 3, 5, 1, 9
200M-Finish: 9, 6, 5, 2, 4

Race 10: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap: Competitive race to finish with. (4) GAIA THUNDER looks to be the pick, having been a class and distance winner in August before going on to beat four of his rivals here when running 2nd over 1700M a month ago. He’ll settle just behind any early leaders and has a strong finish. (3) CHOWONUI CHANGA was 4th in that race, just under a length behind (10) MIRACLE CAT – who was over-performing – and will be a danger today. (11) GEUMGANGJEGUK was a surprise winner over 1200M on August 27th beating (1) LAST CODIE and (9) BEST ROAD. All three of them find themselves up in class here and Last Codie especially, with three wins from five outings to date, looks set to overturn that form today.

Selections: 4, 1, 3, 9
Next Best: 2, 7, 11, 10
Rating: 4, 2, 5, 11, 7
Fast Starters: 1, 2, 6, 7
Start-200M: 1, 9, 6, 2, 7
200M-Finish: 4, 10, 3, 11, 9

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 14)

Friday racing is about to get underway. Here’s the preview of the simulcast races:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 13:20 (SIN)

Second on debut, Peter Wolsley’s (1) DINAH should be making the breakthrough here in this all-filly event. (9) BLUE TIME looked good on debut and while she was a slightly disappointing 5th when well backed on her re-appearance, she looks the main danger here. (10) QUEEN’S BULLET was a much improved 2nd a month ago and can go well once more while the only debut-maker (3) FRENCH GIRL and the most experienced filly in the race (4) AQUA QUEEN look best of the rest.

Selections: (1) Dinah (9) Blue Time (3) French Girl (10) Queen’s Bullet

Next Best: 4, 6

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 13:45 (SIN)

Trainer Kim Young Kwan gives Francisco Da Silva a good opportunity to score here on (4) FOUR NINES. The colt showed improvement with a 3rd place two weeks ago and can win this. Also much improved last start was (5) KING SIMON who appreciated the slight additional distance and should be competitive again here. (6) OPEN THE SKY didn’t impress on debut but should be given another chance to show what he can do here with (1) KING ICE, (8) TRIPLE KING and first-timer (9) GOLDEN TROPHY among others to note.

Selections: (4) Four Nines (5) King Simon (6) Open The Sky (9) Golden Trophy

Next Best: 8, 1

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:30 (SIN)

(3) RED YOUNG MYEONGUN has been close on both his last two starts and in more modest company today, will be strong favourite to make the breakthrough. Bart Rice’s (4) SILENT LAGO returns for the first time since May. She looked sharp in a September trial and should go well under an apprentice jockey who is flying at the moment. (5) SWEET WHY should be on speed early and can at least match her best finish to date of 3rd while (2) GOLDEN BULLET and (6) MACH IMPACT are others to watch.

Selections: (3) Red Young Myeongun (4) Silent Lago (5) Sweet Why (2) Golden Bullet

Next Best: 6, 1

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:15 (SIN)

Kim Young Kwan and Francisco Da Silva partner once more, this time with (3) PINK BLADE, who just came up short as favourite three weeks ago at this distance but will be strong favourite to put things right today. (4) CAPI RUN showed good potential with a 3rd place on his first try at the distance and comes back after three months off to be the main danger here while (5) MAPLE CLASSIC put in a solid debut at the end of August and can build on it here. (7) ARMAGEDDON had shown little in the way of talent before a shock 3rd place last start and punters will be more mindful of him here while (6) YES QUEEN too put in a career-best finish on September 23rd and can follow up today.

Selections: (3) Pink Blade (4) Capi Run (5) Maple Classic (6) Yes Queen

Next Best: 7, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:00 (SIN)

The first of the handicaps and Peter Wosley puts apprentice Choi Eun Gyeung on (3) MACHEON CHIRON, who was just beaten into 2nd on his first try at this class last month and he is the one to beat today. There’s plenty of talent here though and (9) DANCING STAR was 3rd on her own first attempt at the level and dropping back to 1000M today will be a danger. Since winning on debut in July, (1) SUPER JJANGJJANGI hasn’t quite got to grips with the stiffer competition at class 5 but can’t be ruled out while (5) MADEIN MYEONGSEONG returns to action for the first time since January and looked decent when requalifying. Disappointing behind Macheon Chiron last time (7) MOMENT can be given another chance today.

Selections: (3) Macheon Chiron (9) Dancing Star (5) Madein Myeongseong (7) Moment

Next Best: 1, 8

Race 6: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 16:50 (SIN)

Good line-up here but Bart Rice’s (6) BUHWARUI BANSEOK should have too much for them. He’s won his last two well, most recently at class and distance and will be strong favourite to complete a hat-trick here. Also on a hat-trick and winner of five from seven to date is (9) LUCKY TIME. He can go well but is up in class and does have something to find here. Instead the main danger may be (2) TARIAT TALE, 2nd at this class behind the very good Tohamsan last month and tries this distance for the first time. (5) BAEDARI BOBAE was 3rd in the final leg of the Triple Crown in July and while up in class here, can place again while as indeed can (8) GOSOK JILJU, who beat him last month. (7) CHOEGANG PLUS looks best of the rest.

Selections: (6) Buhwarui Banseok (5) Baedari Bobae (2) Tariat Tale (9) Lucky Time

Next Best: 7, 8

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:30 (SIN)

Big competitive field to finish with and with a 3rd and a 2nd from his last two, we’ll go with (10) INDIAN CHIEF to take the honours. (7) SHNE STAR won on debut and while he was a little lacklustre last time out gets another chance here while (3) BONGHWANGUI KKUM won at this class in September and despite carrying an extra 4kg here, can be competitive. (6) YAKSOKUI SIGAN and the usually fast finishing (11) BIGBANG BID are next best.

Selections: (10) Indian Chief (3) Bonghwangui Kkum (7) Shine Star (11) Bigbang Bid

Next Best: 6

Power Blade Pushed But Prevails On Busan Homecoming

Down in Australia on Saturday, only two showed up to face the phenom that is Winx. Korean Triple Crown winner Power Blade didn’t quite command that amount of respect on his return to his home track of Busan on Sunday but he came close with only four rivals venturing out against him – one of them a stablemate – in the Kookje Sinmun Cup.

In fairness, this has never been hugely supported race, despite its hefty prize money – boosted even further this year – but the whole day was very much billed as the Power Blade celebration day. This would be the first time the Busan-trained colt had races at his home track since winning the first jewel of the Triple Crown, the KRA Cup Mile, all the way back in April.

Since then, Power Blade has gone on to romp both the Derby and the Minister’s Cup, becoming the first horse to sweep the K-Triple Crown in its current format and then, despite looking as flat as a pancake in the build-up, registered a hugely creditable 4th place in the Korea Cup at Seoul last month.

A jaunt around seven furlongs at Busan was never going to be too taxing but Power Blade’s neighbour from a few boxes down in Kim Young Kwan’s barn is an interesting talent himself. As a juvenile, Seoul Bullet was part of the KRA’s “maybe the horse isn’t the problem” program, which involved sending Korean-bred horses overseas for early training and racing. He went to Florida where he actually managed to get claimed out of a race at Gulfstream Park (the KRA claimed him back the next time he was entered) and recorded one 3rd from 4 outings.

On his return from Korea Seoul Bullet joined some of the other returnees in proving that no, the Korean-bred horse isn’t the problem, winning 6 out 6 starts, including the 2015 Gold Circle Trophy ahead of a young Macheon Bolt, before injury intervened. He would be off for more than a year and finally returned in inauspicious fashion in August.

Today was expected to be better for Seoul Bullet. It was. Under Seo Seung Un, he hot the front three furlongs out to get first run in the straight. Kim Yong Geun quickly brought Power Blade alongside and for a moment the battle was joined. Power Blade quickly got the best of it and Kim’s whip use was sparing, the Triple Crown winner always in command but only winning by half a length on the line.

So Seoul Bullet is back as a force in the Busan ranks but Power Blade retains his star status.  A good day all round. A journey back to Seoul for the President’s Cup next month is possible but his stable has an embarrassment of riches for that race including Triple Nine, who bested Power Blade to finish 3rd in the Korea Cup. By virtue of their in-the-money finishes in the Cup, both Power Blade and Triple Nine can receive international ratings enabling them to be considered for the Dubai World Cup Carnival and there is no denying it would be wonderful to see a fit Korean Triple Crown winner lining up at Meydan in the New Year.

For now though, Power Blade is back home.

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 9)

While at Busan, Power Blade is the main attraction on Sunday, there’s a big card at Seoul too with 11 races from 10:40 to 18:00

English racecards can be found here. Notes on all Seoul races below:

Key

Rating Top five official rated
Fast Starters Expected to lead the race early
Start-200M Fastest average time for the first 200M (up to 6 most recent races)
200M-Finish Fastest average time for the final 200M (up to 6 most recent races)

Race 1: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 10:40

 (8) CLEAN UP SKY was 3rd in the valuable HKJC Trophy on September 10th and would probably have won had he not been one of two who shifted outwards abruptly away from the whip in the closing stages, losing a lot of ground. The other who did that was a winner last week and in Korea, Clean Up Sky will be odds-on to follow suit here. Next best is (3) YEOKDAE CHOESANG who closed strongly for 2nd last start and will appreciate the extra furlong today. (5) RULE OF SUM was an encouraging 5th on debut in August and can come on here while (4) PHILLANIKE and (12) JEULGEOUN HAMSEONG are perhaps best of the rest although (11) MEGA CHAMP won his trial and will have some backing.

Selections (8) Clean Up Sky (3) Yeokdae Choesang (5) Rule Of Sum (12) Jeulgeoun Hamseong
Next Best 11, 4, 9
Rating –
Fast Starters 4, 6, 8
Start-200M 8, 4, 12, 2, 3
200M-Finish 5, 3, 12, 7, 9

Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 11:05

The market will be slightly more balanced in this one with all except (5) HALO TIME likely to have at least some support. (2) QUEEN PRINCESS and (7) EUNBIT NARAE recorded 3rd places at 1200M and 1300M respectively in August and while both struggled on reappearance last month, they can return to some semblance of form here. It’s similar for (1) GANGJASEUNG, the most experienced one in the race, who failed to follow up on an August 2nd place. (3) YEONGUNG GEONMA’s best I three outings so far came at this distance and will benefit from the services of Djordje Perovic, while (6) GOLDIE EARTH finally showed some improvement in a weak race last month and carries the lightest weight here.

Selections (3) Yeongung Geonma (2) Queen Princess (1) Gangjaseung (6) Goldie Earth
Next Best 7, 4
Rating –
Fast Starters 2
Start-200M 3, 2, 4, 6, 7
200M-Finish 5, 3, 1, 7, 2

Race 3: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 11:30

Another competitive race. Slight pick and likely favourite is (6) MABEOP TANHWAN, a class and distance winner on September 3rd when not fancied at all. He came from just behind the early leaders that day and beat (5) GALKKOTBI in 3rd by almost two lengths. This race isn’t significantly stronger although (2) DONGHAE VICAR and (3) KING LIGHT, both of whom struggled on their first try at this class and both should welcome the step down in trip today. That’s true too of (10) GANGNAMGUL while (8) JEOMIPGASOK returns for the first time since May and looked lively enough in a trial last month.

Selections (6) Mabeop Tanhwan (3) King Light (2) Donghae Vicar (10) Gangnamgul
Next Best 8, 1, 5
Rating 3=10, 6, 1=2
Fast Starters 2, 3, 10
Start-200M 7, 3, 10, 2, 6
200M-Finish 8, 6, 4, 1, 9

Race 4: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 12:10

After back to back 3rd places in all-filly races at this class and distance and prior to that a solid 2nd at 1400M, (11) BEST QUEEN looks ready to win again here. She’s usually steadily away so the outside gate shouldn’t be an issue. Finding one too quick once more may be an issue though and if that happens, the most likely is (8) NEULPUREUN KOKO. She was a well-beaten 2nd at this distance a month ago but is a winner at this distance and will be on speed early. (9) YONGDUSAN showed tentative signs of a return to form with a 4th place at class and distance in August and can go well here too while (6) EIGER and the oddly named (1) VET TIME look best of the rest.

Selections (11) Best Queen (8) Neulpureun Koko (9) Yongdusan (6) Eiger
Next Best 1, 10
Rating 5, 11, 7, 8, 6
Fast Starters 5, 8
Start-200M 8, 5, 1, 9, 6
200M-Finish 11, 3, 1, 2, 6

Race 5: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:15

Another competitive race and we’ll make (1) LAKE LOUISE, 3rd on her first try at this level on September 11th, the pick to score. She led until the closing stages that day and with half a furlong less to worry about today, can go all the way this time. (6) SUN MASTER was 5th, a length and a half behind Lake Louise that day and can go closer here. (7) LA FENICE was a winner at this class over 1000M last month and while that seems to be his ideal distance, he should be able to be competitive at 1200M and will challenge for the lead early. (4) SILVER HERO is up in class having won two of his first three outings and is to be considered while (8) SO ARA YEOWANG drops back to this distance for the first time since beating Lake Louise over it in July. Trainer and jockey combination is bang in form right now.

Selections (1) Lake Louise (4) Silver Hero (6) Sun Master (8) So Ara Yeowang
Next Best 6, 2
Rating 2, 7, 5, 1, 8
Fast Starters 1, 3, 7
Start-200M 7, 3, 1, 5, 6
200M-Finish 9, 5, 8, 2, 4

Race 6: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:05

Since beginning his career with a pair of wins, (11) SIDAEUIYEOWANG has never finished any worse than 4th but has always managed to find at least one too quick. He can put that right today. The main danger looks to be the up in class (6) GWACHEONUI HAMSEONG who’s won two from four and attempts 1400M for the first time. He’s likely to try to make all while Sidaeuiyeowang will be ridden more patiently. Also on speed will be (8) EOJJUGURI, who should be close at the end although the distance may be a slight concern. (2) PRETTY BOY and the up in class (10) DIXIE SMILE, who landed his 2nd win at the 26th time of asking last month, are others in contention.

Selections (11) Sidaeuiyeowang (6) Gwacheonui Hamseong (8) Eojjuguri (10) Dixie Smile
Next Best 2, 5, 12
Rating 11, 3, 1, 8, 2
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6, 8
Start-200M 5, 11, 8, 4, 6
200M-Finish 6, 9, 2, 12, 10

Race 7: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55

There are three stand-outs here in a very average looking race and among them (5) NEW CITADEL, 2nd on debut over 1300M on August 27th, is favoured to take the honours. (7) BANYA DONGHAENG was an encouraging 5th on debut last month and can build on it here while (1) GOOD TO YOU is yet to win in eighteen outings but beat three of these when running 3rd over this distance last start in August and should beat plenty again. It’s slim pickings beyond those so well give a chance to debut-maker (8) HWAGANG, who was 2nd in a trial just last week and also to (12) USEUNG GONGGAM who has a strong of recent 4th places that he should be looking to match or better in this company.

Selections (5) New Citadel (7) Banya Donghaeng (1) Good To You (8) Hwagang
Next Best 12, 3
Rating 5, 3=7=8, 1
Fast Starters 3, 5
Start-200M 3, 5, 10, 6, 7
200M-Finish 7, 5, 1, 12, 2

Race 8: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45

(4) SPIRIT OF HANSEN has been 2nd on each of his three outings so far and he should be close by once more. It’s possible though that he might have to settle for 2nd – or worse – as he finds himself up in class today in what is a competitive race. (9) DAEBAKIDA and (5) HWANGGEUM DEULPAN have both shown they can be contenders at this level and should go close while (2) DAEMA JIJON has already won at class and distance and can be dangerous. (10) EUNBIT HWANHUI has won two of her last three and is accordingly up in class here. She tries the distance for the first time and it should suit.

Selections (4) Spirit Of Hansen (9) Daebakida (10) Eunbit Hwanhui (5) Hwanggeum Deulpan
Next Best 2, 6, 3
Rating 3, 12, 1=2=5
Fast Starters 1, 2, 11
Start-200M 1, 3, 4, 11, 2
200M-Finish 6, 10, 4, 2, 9

Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:40

Both (1) CHEONHABI and (7) IGWANGSASEOK enter here having won their last two starts, the latest for each of them being at this class and accordingly both must be respected here. We’re going to make (2) SIMBA the pick though. His two latest defeats have been in tougher company than this and he looks very nicely in here. (8) LITTLE BROWN was 2nd, just over a length behind Igwangsaseok, at class and distance on August 28th and can go close again while (6) VALLEY STAR, last behind Cheonhabi last time out, can improve today.

Selections (2) Simba (1) Cheonhabi (7) Igwangsaseok (8) Little Brown
Next Best 6, 3
Rating 3=8, 1=2=5
Fast Starters 1, 8
Start-200M 8, 1, 7, 2, 4
200M-Finish 3, 1, 2, 7, 8

Race 10: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:30

Seven of these raced each other at class and distance on August 28th and it was old-stager (8) GUMANSEOK who surprisingly got the best of them. He hasn’t been respected by punters in either of his last two races but has defied his odds both times to finish 2nd. He’ll be much shorter today. (1) SPACE PORT was just a neck behind Gumanseok in that race and may well start favourite here but the other likely fancies here didn’t go that day. (12) BRIG returned to form with a solid 2nd place over 2000M at the beginning of September and should be strong here while (9) MENI MONEY was 3rd over this distance in June’s SLTC Trophy and enters in good form. (10) HALLA CHUKJE, who will most likely set the early pace and (7) WOLRD JJANG are others to look out for.

Selections (12) Brig (1) Space Port (8) Gumanseok (9) Meni Money
Next Best 10, 7, 2
Rating 1, 3, 4, 10, 2
Fast Starters 3, 4, 10
Start-200M 3, 1, 7, 9, 6
200M-Finish 7, 2, 10, 8, 5

Race 11: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 18:00

Two who are up in class look to be the ones to beat in the finale. (1) MENI MUSIC and (3) SNOW CHARISMA were class 3 winners at the start of September over 1200M and 1400M respectively, both of them making all and they will fight it out early in the race with one of them having the potential to go all the way. (4) SINGGEUREOUNBOM and (8) CUPID CHONGAL, have the best chance of stopping them with (10) KEUNBADA a longer shot in what is another competitive race.

Selections (3) Snow Charisma (1) Meni Music (4) Singgeureounbom (8) Cupid Chongal
Next Best 10, 11,
Rating 10, 1, 8, 2, 11
Fast Starters 1, 3
Start-200M 10, 4, 3, 8, 12
200M-Finish 1, 12, 2, 7, 6

Power Blade Faces Four In Kookje Sinmun

Triple Crown winner Power Blade will be the prohibitive favourite when he makes his return to his home track of Busan for the first time since winning the first jewel in the Crown all the way back in April. He has scared off all but four other entrants in the Kookje Sinmun Cup which will be run over 1400M on Sunday afternoon.

Power Blade Banjiui

Power Blade, seen here becoming Champion Juvenile on the last occasion he raced at 1400M, faces four in the Kookje Sinmun Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

While still lightly campaigned – Power Blade has only raced a total of ten times in his career, there were fears among some that a trip to Seoul for the Korea Cup last month would be a race too far. He defied those to some extent by finishing 4th in the Cup, albeit a full twenty lengths behind winner Chrysolite and four lengths behind Stablemate Triple Nine in 3rd.

It’s another stablemate that could provide the main danger in Sunday’s kookje Sinmun. Seoul Bullet, who was six for six before injury struck in Spring of 2015 and perhaps returned a little too soon when racing last when finally reappearing in August. Significantly better is expected of him today.

Kookje Sinmun Cup (Listed-Weight for Age) – Busan Racecourse – 1400M – Sunday October 9 (16:15)

1. Power Blade (KOR) [Menifee] 3 C (10/7/2/0) – Kim Yong Geun
The Triple Crown winner drops back to seven furlongs for the first time since he was a juvenile – a race in which he recorded a faster time than any of his oppponents here have managed at this distance. Tactically versatile, fully fit or not, he should have far too much for these.

2. Hangangui Gijeok (KOR) [Didyme] 5 G (15/10/1/0) – Choi Si Dae
Two years ago he was one of the best horses on the peninsula. Ruled out with tendinitis for seventeen months from March of 2015 until August of this year, his return was an inauspocious one, only beating one home over 1200M. Two months down the line we’re expecting improvement. We’re not expecting him to beat Power Blade. Likely to lead.

3. Yuseong Fighting (KOR) [Didyme] 4 C (21/6/3/0) – Oh Kyoung Hoan
Decent sprinter whose connections are never afraid to send him out in tough company. Beat Seoul Bullet on the latter’s return from injury. He’ll join Hangangui Gijeok in looking for the early lead and he he should stay on to be competitive.

4. Seoul Bullet (KOR) [Peace Rules] 5 G (7/6/0/0) – Seo Seung Un
Sent to Florida as a juvenile he raced there four times for one third before returning to Korea towards the end of his three-year-old season. Stronger, fitter and more muscular than his contemporaries, he promptly went six for six before injury intervened. He lost his unbeaten record on his return after fifteen months out in August, behind Yuseong Fighting. He’ll settle handy probably close to Power Blade.

5. Royal Impact (KOR) [Cielo Gold] 5 H (33/5/6/0) – Song Keong Yun
Drops back to 1400M for the first time in some considerable time, he has struggled to make an impact in class 1 but scored a creditable 5th behind Triple Nine in the Owners’ Cup at a mile in August. He’ll settle at the back and try to be the closer here.

The Kookje Sinmun Cup is the feature among a 6-race card at Busan from 12:50 to 17:05. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00. The Seoul meeting will be broadcast live on Sky Racing in Australia and a full race-by-race preview will follow.

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 7)

The southern part of the Korean peninsula, including Busan, got slammed by a typhoon on Wednesday causing significant damage and disruption. Racing goes ahead, however, and Busan runs 10 races on Friday from 14:20 to 21:00. 

English racecards can be found here. Notes on overseas simulcast races (1-7) are below:

Key

Rating Top five official rated
Fast Starters Expected to lead the race early
Start-200M Fastest average time for the first 200M (up to 6 most recent races)
200M-Finish Fastest average time for the final 200M (up to 6 most recent races)

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 14:20

Seven of these are debut-makers but it’s the experienced ones who are likely to be favoured. (2) TIGER SLAM was an improved 3rd on what was his second outing in August and he can make all here. (6) EORIN YEOWANG was behind him that day but came back out an improved 3rd herself a month ago and should be competitive again. Of the first-timers, (5) BANJIUI JANGMI is a half to two really good horses and was encouraging in trials as was (8) AGNES and (4) TAEYANGUI SINHWA.

Selections (2) Tiger Slam (5) Banjiui Jangmi (8) Agnes (6) Eorin Yeowang
Next Best 4, 10, 11, 9
Rating –
Fast Starters 2, 9, 11
Start-200M 2, 10, 6, 12, 7
200M-Finish 10, 7, 6, 2, 12

Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 14:45 

A half-sister of prolific winner Cinderella Man, (5) EVERGREEN TREE debuts here and will be hot favourite to score having won a trial by fifteen lengths two weeks ago. (2) SEGI GANGJA, 5th on debut in July and returns from injury here and is likely to be second favourite while fellow experienced ones (7) TEUKGEUP GAMDONG and (9) STAR GOLD can also improve. (3) ADELEUI JINJU qualified (a considerable distance) behind Evergreen Tree and looks the best of the other debut-makers.

Selections (5) Evergreen Tree (2) Segi Gangja (3) Adeleui Jinju (9) Star Gold
Next Best 7, 10
Rating –
Fast Starters 2, 5, 7, 10
Start-200M 7, 2, 8, 10, 9
200M-Finish 8, 11, 2, 9, 7

Race 3: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:30 

Kiwi trainer David Miller sends out his first Korean runner in the shape of (5) WOLHADOKJAK and it could be a winning start. The colt has shown improvement in his last two and was narrowly beaten out of 3rd last time at this distance. The main danger is (9) SAMHYEONGJE, who has two 3rds at this distance so far while (10) SAERON NA also improved last start and can be considered. (4) ISIDAE YEONGGWANG and (7) DONGNAM CHOEGO look best of the rest.

Selections (5) Wolhadokjak (9) Samhyeongje (7) Dongnam Choego (10) Saeroun Na
Next Best 4, 12
Rating –
Fast Starters 1, 4, 7, 8
Start-200M 8, 7, 1, 9, 12
200M-Finish 5, 4, 9, 6, 3

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 16:15 

Small field but should be competitive. (7) MAGIC WINNER hasn’t exactly lived up to his name but has as good a chance as any on what will be his first try at this distance. He beat (8) DON’T STOP as the pair raced 3rd and 5th over 1200M on August and both will be competitive here. (6) VEGA KHAN was an improved 4th two weeks ago and can build on that here while (4) STYLISH and the sole debut-maker (9) BULBIT JEONSA may also be considered.

Selections (7) Magic Winner (9) Bulbit Jeonsa (8) Don’t Stop (4) Stylish
Next Best 6, 3
Rating –
Fast Starters 2, 5
Start-200M 2, 3, 7, 5, 4
200M-Finish 3, 8, 1, 7, 6

Race 5: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 17:00 

The final maiden race and (1) HWAJEONG should really be making her breakthrough here. She was 3rd last start, beating (2) PUREUN GANGJA in the process and looks the best of these. (6) HWANHAN SESANG comes in following a pair of 5ths and can improved with the aforementioned Pureun Gangja and (3) DREAM ACE looking the best of a limited rest.

Selections (1) Hwajeong (6) Hwanhan Sesang (2) Pureun Gangja (3) Dream Ace
Next Best 5
Rating –
Fast Starters 3, 5
Start-200M 3, 7, 4, 1, 2
200M-Finish 1, 6, 2, 7, 5

Race 6: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 17:50 

Nine of these imports are unraced. (2) POINT LUCK was the fastest in trials and accordingly will be one the favourites to strike here. Also looking good in preparation was (8) AMERANCE FASHION and (7) SPEED MARK, the latter winning his trial. (4) MORNING PARK beat a couple of the others in his trial and can be considered. The only one of these with racing experience is (3) BAEDARI SAMCHONGSA. He hasn’t shown much in two starts so far but has a top jockey booking and can show improvement.

Selections (2) Point Luck (7) Speed Mark (8) Amerance Fashion (4) Morning Korea
Next Best 3, 6, 5
Rating –
Fast Starters 2, 6, 8
Start-200M 3
200M-Finish 3

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:30 

Finally we get to see some horses who have actually won some races. (1) WONDER WALL was 2nd last month in a valuable race for juveniles who passed through the domestic sales and he can get back to winning ways here. (10) BAEKDUBONG is up in class and distance following his maiden win a month ago and warrants consideration while (4) LIMITLESS WIN seems to be getting to grips with this class and can improve on his last two outings. (6) REALLY QUEEN and (8) BOUND QUEENS look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Wonder Wall (10) Baekdubong (4) Limitless Win (6) Really Queen
Next Best 8, 2, 12
Rating 4, 1, 2=8, 11
Fast Starters 1, 6, 8
Start-200M 1, 6, 8, 7, 12
200M-Finish 10, 1, 4, 6, 12

Satoshi On Fire At Busan While It’s Bravo Belli at Seoul

Yonekura Satoshi continued his solid September with no less five winners at Busan last weekend. Meanwhile up at Seoul, Sunday was a milestone day for Marcello Belli as the Italian claimed his first Korean winner.

Since winning the KNN Cup on outsider Supreme Magic in July, Satoshi has finally found himself getting plenty of opportunities and the 41-year-old Japanese rider is converting them.

Taking advantage of a number of Busan’s top riders being in Seoul for the Jeju Governor’s Cup, Satoshi won the first race last Friday on Queen’s Queen and added two more later on in the evening before coming back out on Sunday and adding two more. None of the five across the weekend started at shorter than 5/1.

It’s still early days for Marcello Belli but the Italian rider got a big boost on Sunday as he partnered his first winner in Seoul. On a day of long-shot winners, Belli made all on 43/1 chance Northern Hojae in race 8 and just had enough left to hold off the  favourite by a nose on the line

It was Belli’s first win on what was his 21st ride at Seoul. He still has some considerable way to go to match fellow Italian-licensed Seoul rider Djordje Perovic but he’s now on his way.

Seoul’s other foreign jockey Imran Chisty also rode a winner on Saturday although Paolo Aragoni and Pasquale Borelli who were also in the capital for the weekend both saw their mounts come up short in the Jeju Governor’s Cup.

Busan’s fourth foreign jockey, Francisco Da Silva got his own Korean career off to a remarkable start. Debuting on September 9th, he won on his first two rides and added a third later that same day. The 37-year-old is yet to add to that tally but has had a few near misses and was suspended last weekend.

Indian Star Skips Through The Slop In Jeju Cup

Indian Star made all to win the Jeju Governor’s Cup at a soaking wet Seoul Racecourse on Sunday. The 22/1 chance left some of the best domestic-bred fillies in her wake as she cruised a four-length win.

1. Indian Star (KOR) [Adcat – Indian Diamond (Indian Charlie)] – Lim Sung Sil – 22.4, 3.8
2. Touch Flying (KOR) [Colors Flying – Jeongtongseong (Lassigny)] – Jo Jae Ro – 2.7
3. Ottug Ottugi (KOR) [Forest Camp – Main Objective (Lion Heart)] – Choi Si Dae – 1.2
Distances: 4 lengths / 2 lengths
Also Ran: 4. Santa Gloria 5. Pinot Noir 6. Sharp Gale 7. Hwanggeumbitjijunghae 8. Smart Time 9. Special Rookie 10. Chang Se 11. Queen Two Hearts 13. Raon Amos 13. Valkyrie

Korea Oaks winner Ottug Ottugi was sent off as favourite having come out of the Korea Sprint three weeks ago in good shape while Santa Gloria, who won a trial for this race at Busan at the end of August was second in the betting.

It was a miserable day at Seoul with the rain having started in the early morning and the track resembling the Han river by the time the thirteen went to post for the Jeju Governor’s Cup. However, once the gates opened, instead of Ottug Ottugi leading, it was Indian Star who was brought right around from gate 11 by Lim Sung Sil and into a lead that she wouldn’t give up.

Touch Flying, who entered on a streak of four consecutive victories, came home 2nd while Ottug Ottugi just held off Santa Gloria in a photo-finish for 3rd.

Indian Star (Adcat), a four-year-old, was winning for the 9th time in 16 outings. Her previous attempt at a Stakes race ended badly as she came home 10th in the Busan Ilbo Cup but she entered having put in two solid performances in class 1 races at Busan and had perhaps been due a good result. For trainer Mun Je Bok it continues a good year – he also trains Perdido Pomeroy who won the Korea-Japan Cup at Seoul in June and was 4th in last month’s Korea Sprint.

2nd in the Korea Sprint was Macheon Bolt and Peter Wolsley’s four-year-old made his return to action down at Busan on Sunday. He was sent off the hot favourite for a 1400M class 1 handicap which attracted a strong field including Gamdonguibada and Ms. Margaux. Macheon Bolt (Old Fashioned) was too good for them though, leading all the way under jockey Lee Hee Cheon to record his 10th win on his 16th career start.

Next weekend Stakes action moves to Busan and the Kookje Sinmun Cup.

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (October 2)

It’s a big day of racing in the peninsula as Oaks winner Ottug Ottugi heads the line-up in Seoul in the Jeju Governor’s Cup, a race that brings together some of the top Korean bred fillies on the peninsula. At Busan, Macheon Bolt is the one they have to beat in a top class feature handicap.

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Ottug Ottugi and Choi Si Dae, seen here at the Korea Sprint, return to Seoul Sunday (Pic: Ross Holburt)

English Racecards are here. All Seoul races are available on the TAB in Australia.Race-by-race preview (except Busan race 1) below:

Key

Rating Top five official rated
Fast Starters Expected to lead the race early
Start-200M Fastest Average time for the first 200M (up to 6 most recent races)
200M-Finish Fastest average time for the final 200M (up to 6 most recent races)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 10:40 

Two standouts here and we’ll go with (11) SMART PARK to beat (9) LEAD MONEY. The latter would perhaps have won last time had he not shifted inwards away from the whip in the closing stages and gets another chance here. Among the rest, (6) CUPID FLOWER was beaten by Lead Money on debut in August and can improve for it while (2) LUIBAN, (3) RAON ROCKY and (10) GOLDEN STEP look best of the first-timers.

Selections (11) Smart Park (9) Lead Money (6) Cupid Flower (3) Raon Rocky
Next Best 10, 2
Rating –
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 6
Start-200M 9, 4, 5, 11, 6
200M-Finish 11, 8, 6, 9, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 11:05 

(6) NHA TRANG has improved on each start so far and was 2nd in a weak race over 1000M a month ago. He tries 1300M for the first time today and can win from on the early speed. Main danger is (4) HAWK EYES, narrowly beaten into 3rd last start and with a strong finish. The rest look indifferent at best. It’s not a good sign to still be at class 6 after 23 starts but (1) DREAM KING should be capable of beating a few of these while (2) PROUD and (9) NONGBON OREUM can also compete for places.

Selections (4) Hawk Eyes (6) Nha Trang (2) Proud (1) Dream King
Next Best 9, 3
Rating –
Fast Starters 6, 9
Start-200M 6, 4, 8, 2, 9
200M-Finish 4, 6, 2, 3, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 11:30 

(3) NO MERCY was 2nd on debut at the beginning of September, having briefly led close to home and he is one of the main contenders here. He’ll look to lead all the way. (5) BINNANEUN TALLYEOK was a much improved 2nd on what was her fourth start at the end of August. She’s not a fast starter and may appreciate the extra half furlong today. (1) I AM CAPTAIN was a slightly disappointing 6th last time but gets another chance while (4) SUNNY SKY and (6) HIMCHAN CHULBAL look best of the rest.

Selections (3) No Mercy (5) Binnaneun Tallyeok (1) I Am Captain (6) Himchan Chulbal
Next Best 4, 7
Rating –
Fast Starters 3, 7
Start-200M 3, 7, 1, 2, 4
200M-Finish 6, 5, 8, 4, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 12:10 

(9) RAON CONDOR was a three-length winner on debut a month ago and while she had little to beat that day and is up in class here, she will be competitive. (5) STORM RYKER has been knocking on the door of the places at this class and should be going close here while (3) GEUMBIT ROAD returns after nine months off and looked sharp in a trial in the summer. (7) SUPER ROCKET and (8) SAEBYEOCK BULKKOT both improved last start and may be considered.

Selections (5) Storm Ryker (9) Raon Condor (7) Super Rocket (3) Geumbit Road
Next Best 8, 11
Rating 1, 5, 7, 4=9
Fast Starters 3, 7, 8, 9
Start-200M 9, 7, 3, 5, 8
200M-Finish 3, 11, 4, 2, 1

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:15 

Really open race all-filly race. (1) PUREUN JILJU was a winner on debut last month but will have to find plenty if she’s to repeat. Just as likely to make the step up is (11) GEUMSAEKJO, who looked good making all to get her own maiden win on August 28th. (7) EONJE EODISEONA and (8) MARI have both run twice at this level and should be competitive while (2) ECTON GAYA and especially (3) DOLCE VITA are others to consider.

Selections (11) Geumsaekjo (7) Eonje Eodiseona (3) Dolce Vita (1) Pureun Jilju
Next Best 8, 2, 10
Rating 7, 8, 11, 1, 2
Fast Starters 6, 7, 8, 10
Start-200M 8, 7, 10, 6, 5
200M-Finish 2, 11, 10, 9, 1

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:40 

(11) GASOK ACE is up in class following his maiden win last time and looks nicely in for a repeat today. Rivals are (9) GOLDEN KINGS returned from five months off to record a solid 5th place earlier this month and should have come on for the run and (10) KWAESEOK BOLT, already a winner at this level and top weight here. The inconsistent (3) ACE POWER looks best of the rest.

Selections (11) Gasok Ace (10) Kwaeseok Bolt (9) Golden Kings (3) Ace Power
Next Best 1, 5, 6
Rating 10, 6, 11, 3, 9
Fast Starters 3, 11
Start-200M 3, 11, 9, 1, 8
200M-Finish 11, 9, 7, 2, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:05 

Only one previous winner amongst this lot and that’s (12) GYODUBO, who races for the first time since that victory, achieved on a muddy track in July. He’s top weight but has claims again. (1) BROOKS comes in following a 3rd and a 2nd from his last two and should place again while (2) TOTAL WALKER is always well-supported and may find conditions more favourable today. (8) SINGIPARANG is one start into a comeback following over a year off and can improve with (7) MUSTANG STRONG, (9) ALL KILL and (11) GUKJE MYEONGPUM among a number of others to watch.

Selections (12) Gyodubo (1) Brooks (2) Total Walker (7) Mustang Strong
Next Best 8, 11, 9, 10
Rating 8, 12, 10, 1, 2
Fast Starters 1, 7, 8, 12
Start-200M 7, 8, 6, 10, 12
200M-Finish 12, 8, 10, 2, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 

(2) CAPITAL GANGJA comes in following three consecutive 2nd place finishes and taking her chance against imports can go one better here. She beat (5) KKEUTPAN BOOSTER into 3rd last time out and both should be in contention with the latter carrying 3kg less today. Main danger is Kim Young Kwan’s (8) MATCH POWER, 3rd on his second start a month ago and surely a winner at some stage. (10) DEVIL KING and (11) YEGEURINA are also to be considered.

Selections (5) Kkeutpan Booster (8) Match Power (2) Capital Gangja (11) Yegeurina
Next Best 10, 4
Rating 11, 6=9, 7, 4
Fast Starters 1, 3
Start-200M 1, 2, 5, 11, 3
200M-Finish 11, 4, 6, 5, 8

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 

Competitive race here. (1) MISUJAE and (3) DANGCHANBISANG are up in class after slightly unexpected wins at 1200M and 1300M respectively. They’ll have a bit to find today but can be competitive. (2) SPECIAL ROAD HILL secured her second career win against softer opposition earlier this month and will also need to improve. (9) WHIZ SPEED, with two wins and two 2nds from his last four looks the one to beat although strong finisher (4) SUPER BROAD can improve on recent starts too. (6) CHEOLLI and (11) OFFIDAY also with claims.

Selections (9) Whiz Speed (4) Super Broad (1) Misujae (3) Dangchanbisang
Next Best 11, 6, 2
Rating 9, 11, 2=8, 4
Fast Starters 1, 3, 9, 11
Start-200M 9, 5, 3, 6, 1
200M-Finish 4, 11, 6, 2, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:20

(3) GABO STAR has been sent off at odds-on for all but one of his seven starts to date. He’s only won the two but while he is up in class here, he should be leading all the way from a favourable draw and making it three. He’s up against (7) GIFTED SUN though, a sharp winner over 1000M last month who is similarly up in class today and can provide a stern examination. (1) PHANTOM BLADE hasn’t lived up to early promise but can come on for his 5th place back from a spell three weeks ago while (2) SANGSEUNG MULGYEOL, (9) FOR MY SIS and (10) GIMAKIN JILJU are always reliably competitive.

Selections (3) Gabo Star (7) Gifted Sun (1) Phantom Blade (9) For My Sis
Next Best 10, 2
Rating 9, 10, 2=3, 6
Fast Starters 3
Start-200M 7, 3, 1, 4, 2
200M-Finish 2, 9, 5, 11, 10

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45 

(11) MIDAS ROAD stepped up in class last time just didn’t quicken enough, finish in 3rd at this distance. He gets a chance to return to winning ways today. He narrowly beat (7) KATIE STAR into 4th that day and she too will be competitive as indeed will (9) SUPER START, who beat Katie Star at class and distance in July before going on to disappoint when stepped up to 1400M last month, a race in which (2) ARGO CHAMP finished 2nd. (1) HUIMANG ROCKET was 5th on her first attempt at this level last month and should look to better it here while (8) JINNYEONGUI GEOIN is up in class today and has a bit to find but will be backed.

Selections (11) Midas Road (9) Super Start (7) Katie Star (2) Argo Champ
Next Best 8, 1
Rating 3, 10, 4=9, 11
Fast Starters 1, 3, 5, 7
Start-200M 7, 3, 10, 5, 9
200M-Finish 11, 7, 9, 8, 1

Busan Race 5: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 16:10 

 Small but competitive field and Peter Wolsley’s (3) PRIVATE DANCER showed he’s capable at this level with 2nd place (to a long-shot winner) at the beginning of the month, beating (2) WIN GO MAN into 3rd and can match or better that here. (4) BEOLMAUI SIN is the main danger, up in class and with more wins likely to come. (5) MACHU PICCHU was a strong 4th at class and distance a month ago and can look for the places here with (6) YEONGUNG BOLT the best of the rest.

Selections (3) Private Dancer (4) Beolmaui Sin (5) Machu Picchu (2) Win Go Man
Next Best 6
Rating 5, 6, 3, 4, 2
Fast Starters 2, 5
Start-200M 3, 2, 5, 4, 7
200M-Finish 4, 3, 5, 6, 1

Seoul Race 9: Class Open – Jeju Governor’s Cup (KOR G3) / 1400M / Allowance / KRW 300 Million / 16:40 

(6) OTTUG OTTUGI won the Korean Oaks and was 7th in the Korea Sprint here at Seoul three weeks ago. So far, the top filly of her generation, she can prove that here. She will try to make all. Her stablemate (3) SPECIAL ROOKIE was surprisingly beaten by (5) SANTA GLORIA in a trial for this race at the end of last month and both those will be contenders here. (8) CHANG SE was the winner of the corresponding trial at Seoul, beating (1) SMART TIME into 2nd, and will be dangerous as will (9) TOUCH FLYING and (13) RAON AMOS, both of whom come in on a run of four consecutive victories. The experienced Stakes winner (7) PINOT NOIR can never be ruled out of finding the money either and nor can (11) INDIAN STAR.

Selections (6) Ottug Ottugi (3) Special Rookie (8) Chang Se (5) Santa Gloria
Next Best 13, 7, 11, 9, 1
Rating 7=11, 6=9, 8
Fast Starters 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13
Start-200M 11, 6, 8, 13, 4
200M-Finish 12, 5, 7, 9, 2

Busan Race 6: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 17:05

(2) MACHEON BOLT was 2nd to Hong Kong’s Super Jockey in the Korea Sprint in Seoul three weeks ago over 1200M. He prefers further and has to be favourite to take the honours here. (8) GAMDONGUIBADA was an also-ran that day but should be much happier back on her home track while (9) MS. MARGAUX won on her first outing for trainer Thomas Gillespie earlier in the month and shouldn’t be too far away. (3) HEBA seems to have lost a touch of form recently but an apprentice jockey gives her much less weight to carry than usual. (6) TAPIPOINT, 3rd to Macheon Bolt last start, can look to place.

Selections (2) Macheon Bolt (8) Gamdonguibada (3) Heba (9) Ms. Margaux
Next Best 6, 4
Rating 8, 3, 2=9, 4
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6
Start-200M 6, 8, 5, 4, 2
200M-Finish 3, 2, 9, 7, 8

Seoul Race 10: Class 2 / 1900M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 17:30 

(4) SHAMROCKER is giving plenty of weight away but remains a strong contender here to get what would be his 3rd win in his last four starts. A beneficiary of that weight is (9) SAMBONG, who was a strong 2nd on his first try at this class at the beginning of the month. He may try to lead all the way. (3) SUPER COMMANDO is up in class and has a bit to find but may be considered. (1) NEULPUREUN TIGER and (10) NAMSAN CHUKJE may also contest for places.

Selections (4) Shamrocker (9) Sambong (3) Super Commando (10) Namsan Chukje
Next Best 1, 11
Rating 4, 5, 7, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 3, 9
Start-200M 10, 6, 3, 9, 5
200M-Finish 4, 7, 3, 9, 8

Seoul Race 11: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00

Both (4) ACE RUNNER and (8) KENTUCKY YEONIN are up in class following maiden wins on what for both of them was their second start last time out. Both made all and both will be looking for the same again here. (10) KODIAK LOVE beat a number of these when running 2nd at class and distance on September 4th and will be in contention once more with (6) KOREA JEONGSANG and (12) JEONMUHUMU among a number of others with claims.

Selections (8) Kentucky Yeonin (4) Ace Runner (10) Kodiak Love (12) Jeonmuhumu
Next Best 6, 8, 7
Rating 2, 10, 9, 8=12
Fast Starters 3, 4, 5, 8, 9
Start-200M 11, 5, 8, 4, 3
200M-Finish 4, 6, 11, 10, 2