Month: November 2016

Triple Nine Bests Power Blade To Retain President’s Cup

Triple Nine pulled clear of stablemate and Triple Crown Power Blade to convincingly retain his President’s Cup title at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

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Triple Nine wins the President’s Cup (Pic: Alex Cairns/The Winning Post)

Triple Nine had previously got the best of Power Blade by four lengths as the pair ran 3rd and 4th behind Japan’s Chrysolite in September’s Billion Won Korea Cup and while the circumstances of that race were rather unusual, punters sent the older colt, who convincingly beat Rock Band in last year’s race, as the slight favourite with Success Story the only other one of the ten-strong field to be backed to any extent.

Success Story would, as ever, show the way in the 2000M race, Korea’s equal-richest, along with the Derby, that is restricted to locally bred horses. Racing for the first time since being gelded, the 5-year-old brought the field along with Power Blade right on pace beside him while Triple Nine, under Seo Seung Un for the first time, settled in his usual midfield position.

Jockey Seo asked Triple Nine to improve as they rounded the final turn and the 4-year-old effortlessly glided up alongside the leaders. Into the home straight and Success Story was the first to fall out of contention leaving the stablemates to go stride for stride until the furling pole. Entering the closing stages, however, Power Blade’s challenge wilted and Triple Nine pulled clear to win by a commanding five lengths on the line. Success Story was a further four back in 3rd.

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Triple Nine waiting to be brought out for the post-race presentation (Pic: Alex Cairns/The Winning Post)

In yet another assertion of the southern-track’s superiority when it comes to quality,  Busan horses accounted for the first five place-getters with Baedari Bobae running 4th and Zettabyte, 2nd in both of the final two legs of the Triple Crown coming home in 5th.

The victory was Triple Nine’s 11th in 19 career starts to date. He has never finished any worse than 4th. Neither has Power Blade and the pair of them are both potential entries for the Dubai World Cup Carnival in the New Year although it is possible the Grand Prix Stakes next month could be the agenda for one or both of them. For jockey Seo Seung Un it was a first Korean Group 1 winner. For trainer Kim Young Kwan, it was a 10th.

The President’s Cup (KOR G1) – Seoul Racecourse – 2000M – November 13, 2016

1. Triple Nine (KOR) [Ecton Park – A Little Poke (Pleasant Tap)] – Seo Seung Un – 1.8, 1.0
2. Power Blade (KOR) [Menifee – Cheonmacheong (Lost Mountain)] – Kim Yong Geun – 1.1
3. Success Story (KOR) [Peace Rules – Power Pack (Lil’s Lad)] – You Hyun Myung – 1.7
Distances: 5 lengths / 4 lenghs
Also Ran: 4. Baedari Bobae 5. Zettabyte 6. Cheonji Storm 7 .Sotong Sidae 8. Pinot Noir 9. Top Fighter 10. Impetus NR: Brig

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Full Race-By-Race Preview for President’s Cup Day (November 13)

Sunday is President’s Cup Day at Seoul. The big race is the highlight of 11 contests at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00. Meanwhile at Busan there is a competitive 6-race card running from 12:50 to 17:05.

See here for a runner-by-runner preview of the President’s Cup. Full English race cards can be found here and see below for a race-by-race preview of the whole day (click continue reading):

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

Five first-timers and five with prior experience here and we’ll go with the experience. (7) K KING has shown improvement over his two outings to date and can keep that going here. He should lead from the gate and can win. (8) CHARMING GOOD was an encouraging 4th in a tight race on debut last month and also improve today while (4) RAON ROCKY also showed promise when racing 5th on debut on October 2nd. Among the debut makers, (2) BEST CAMP looked the pick in trials.

Selections: (7) K King (2) Best Camp (8) Charming Good (4) Raon Rocky
Next Best: 6, 10
Rating: –
Fast Starters: 2, 4, 7
Start-200M: 8, 7, 9, 4, 1
200M-Finish: 1, 7, 8, 9, 4

click “more” to continue…it’s too long to keep on the front!

(more…)

The President’s Cup: Power Blade vs Triple Nine (and 10 more) – Full Preview

Along with the Korean Derby, the President’s Cup is the richest race in Korea restricted to locally bred horses. That means it usually attrcts the best from Seoul and Busan and this year is no exception as Triple Crown winner Power Blade takes on his stablemate and winner of this race last year, Triple Nine over 2000M at Seoul Racecourse.

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Triple Nine was 3rd in the Korea Cup – he returns to Seoul as potential favourite for the President’s Cup (Pic: Ross Holburt)

Here’s a full run-down of the field:

The President’s Cup (KOR G1) – Seoul Racecourse – 2000M – Sunday November 13, 2016 (16:40)

1. Success Story [Peace Rules – Power Pack (Lil’s Lad)] 5 G (23/10/3/6) – You Hyun Myung
He was gelded last month and won’t be returning to the Dubai World Cup Carnival int he New Year. Two 3rds and most recently a strong 2nd behind Triple Nine in a Stakes race in August. He’ll be on pace early. Needs to be sensibly ridden to give him a chance of holding off Triple Nine late on.

2. Sotong Sidae [Gold Money – Myeonggauihuye (Black Minnaloushe)] 5 G (34/9/5/8) – Park Byeong Yun
Probably Seoul’s best he comes in having won back to back class 1’s over 1800M both in his familiar fast closing fashion. He will go back as usual and he can beat plenty in the closing stages.

3. Zettabyte [Menifee – Fight Back (Sakura Seeking)] 3 C (11/4/4/1)
4th in the Cup Mile and then 2nd to Power Blade in both the Derby and the Minister’s Cup, he makes a strong case for being the 2nd best of his his crop. Returned to winning ways with a facile five-length win at Busan in September, if he can be reasonably handy, we know he can finish strongly at this distance and a place is possible.

4. Pinot Noir [Capital Spending – Neungnyeokchungman (Pacificbounty)] 6 M (29/7/8/2) – Park Hyun Woo
One of the best racemares in Korea, she began the year with a Listed and a Stakes win but has struggled a little of late. Beaten by Brig in September she could only manage 5th in the Jeju Governor’s Cup last month. Today’s distance is ideal but the competition may be a little stiff.

5. Royal Impact [Cielo Gold – Skeemo (Meadowlake) 5 H (34/5/6/8) – Song Keong Yun
Ten lengths behind Power Blade in the Gukje Sinmun last month and that was only because the race was only over 1400M. Creditable 5th behind Triple Nine and Success Story in the Owners’ Cup but he has too much to find here. Most likely to settle at the rear of the field and hope to pick some off late on.

6. Triple Nine [Ecton Park – A Little Poke (Pleasant Tap)] 4 C (18/10/6/1) – Seo Seung Un
Bested Power Blade by four lengths in what was admittedly a rather crazy running of the Korea Cup. He is very good but has suffered surprising defeats to Diferent Dimension and Beolmaui Kkum this year. He finished very strongly in the Cup and the distance should be ideal. He has a big chance of successfully defending his title.

7. Brig [Menifee – Delicias (Deputy Minister)] 6 H (36/9/8/1) – Djordje Perovic
Returned to form recently with a pair of 2nd places in class 1 company, including at this distance. Narrowly beaten a neck last time, a further nose ahead of Impetus, who also goes here. HIs improvement in form has coincided with Djordje Perovic starting to ride him but even so, this will be challenging.

8. Power Blade [Menifee – Cheonmacheong (Lost Mountain)] 3 C (11/8/2/0) – Kim Yong Geun
Many thought that the Korea Cup would be a race too far for the Triple Crown winning colt but he raced well and came home 4th. That’s his only defeat this year and he returned to Busan to win the Gukje Sinmun last month beating Seoul Bullet who burnished his own credentials with an easy win last week. Versatile but expected to be close to the early pace here, he can win.

9. Cheonji Storm [Admire Don – Great Thought (Empire Maker)] 3 C (10/5/2/1) – Ham Wan Sik
An exciting colt still on the way up. He was 6th in the Korean Derby but has two wins from three outings since including the HRI Trophy at this distance on international weekend. He’ll be on the speed early and shouldn’t be over-matched. He’s the wildcard choice for a place.

10. Baedari Bobae [Colors Flying – Geumgang Gongwon (Pacificbounty)] 3 C (15/3/6/3) – Lee Sung Jae
3rd in the Minister’s Cup, four lengths behind Zettabyte and eleven behind Power Blade, he has some catching up to do. A pair of indifferent performances since don’t inspire confidence in him doing it here. Usually settles in midfield.

11. Impetus [Exploit – Miss Stravinsky (Stravinsky)] 6 H (36/7/3/9) – Jo Jae Ro
Beaten a nose into 3rd place by Brig last start, less than half a length behind the winner. However, the last time he won was July of 2015 and that doesn’t look set to change here. Given his draw, he’s likely to be ridden patiently.

12. Top Fighter [Gaeseon Janggun – Escaped Love (Lost Soldier)] 5 G (26/3/4/4) – Kim Eu Soo
No real chance here, he is yet to win at a higher level than class 3. Most recently 3rd over 1200M, he may as well go as quick as possible out of the gate and see what happens.

Verdict: (8) Power Blade (6) Triple Nine (1) Success Story (9) Cheonji Storm

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 11)

It’s President’s Cup weekend. Twelve horses, including Triple Crown winner Power Blade will contend one of Korea’s richest races at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. Prior to that, however, there’s plenty going on across the peninsula on Friday and Saturday. Busan gets things underway with an 11-race card on Friday running from 11:30 to 18:00.

English race cards are here. Notes on simulcast races 4-11 are below:

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:35 

(9) MAPLE CLASSIC was a much improved 2nd behind a good winner last start, beating a couple of these in the process and while he’s yet to show much in the way of speed, can continue his progress in modest company here and he’s the pick to score from the front. (5) KING ICE is another who has showed glimpses of talent with a pair of 4th places among three prior tries. He should sit handy and can finish strongly. Those two look some way ahead of the rest although the more experienced (12) MAGIC WINNER comes in following a 3rd and a 4th at this distance, beating a number of the others who go here and he should beat plenty today. (1) HIGH SPEC improved behind Maple Classic last time out while (3) STYLISH too has scope for improvement.

Selections: (9) Maple Classic (5) King Ice (12) Magic Winner (3) Stylish
Next Best: 1, 2, 10
Rating: –
Fast Starters: 1, 3, 9
Start-200M: 1, 3, 8, 4, 9
200M-Finish: 5, 10, 12, 9, 7

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:20 

Bart Rice’s (7) MADEIN MYEONGSEONG is two starts into a comeback following nine months out and while he was a slightly disappointing 4th last time having made the running over 1000M before weakening late on. Francisco Da Silva takes the mount today and they should lead from gate to wire. (1) ACE MAN disappointed when well backed on October 2nd but was found to be lame afterwards. After six weeks off, he can go better today and should join Madein Myeongseong on the early speed. (6) NORTHERN TRACE and (4) VEGA KHAN were both beaten by Madein Myeongseong last time out and both can improve here.

Selections: (7) Madein Myeongseong (1) Ace Man (6) Northern Trace (4) Vega Khan
Next Best: 5, 8
Rating: 7, 1, 4, 3, 8
Fast Starters: 1, 7
Start-200M: 5, 7, 1, 2, 6
200M-Finish: 1, 7, 6, 2, 8

Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:05 

Up in class following his maiden win over this distance on October 21st Peter Wolsley’s (4) ROYAL RUBY will likely be favourite to follow up here. He does have a little bit to find though. Kim Young Kwan’s (10) ATHENS was 2nd at class and distance a month ago and should get an easy lead here so must be considered while (1) PARK MAN and (11) BLUE DANCER are both yet to win but can be competitive in this company. Also yet to win is (5) GANGHO IRON but she rarely misses at least the minor money and can repeat today.

Selections: (4) Royal Ruby (10) Athens (11) Blue Dancer (1) Park Man
Next Best: 5, 7, 6
Rating: 10, 4, 1=7, 5
Fast Starters: 10
Start-200M: 7, 1, 11, 9, 5
200M-Finish: 4, 1, 11, 5, 3

Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:50

There are five debut-makers. Stablemates (5) DROP THE BEAT and (8) GOOD CASTING both won their trials with the latter looking the slightly more impressive, finishing very strongly. Drop The Beat should be on speed early along with another debut maker (7) PURE DEIMOS, who also showed promise in two trials. Favourite, however, could well be Kim Young Kwan’s (12) CHALLANHAN ACE who comes in following a 3rd place in a similar race last month and while the outside gate isn’t ideal, should be dangerous in this company. Best of the rest is (3) PARTYINTHEDESERT.

Selections: (8) Good Casting (12) Challanhan Ace (7) Pure Deimos (5) Drop The Beat
Next Best: 3, 9
Rating: 12, 3, 11, 1=2
Fast Starters: 5, 7, 12
Start-200M: 12, 1, 10, 4, 6
200M-Finish: 3, 6, 12, 10, 4

Race 8: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:35

(2) YUSEONGCHEOREOM looks to be a banker favourite here. He’s won two from three so far and is up in class seven weeks on from a four-length triumph over 1000M. His one defeat did come at this distance but given a good start here, he should win. Also up in class is (8) SUPER JJANGJJANGI, who tries this distance for the first time. He has a little more to find but can be competitive as can (9) KOREA HUNTER, who beat a couple of these when running 3rd over 1200M last month. The experienced (7) WONDERFULCHEONGHAE enters in good form and can place as can (5) B.K. KING.

Selections: (2) Yuseongcheoreom (8) Super Jjangjjangi (7) Wonderfulcheonghae (9) Korea Hunter
Next Best: 5, 1
Rating: 5, 1, 6=7, 2
Fast Starters: 2, 8
Start-200M: 8, 2, 6, 1, 7
200M-Finish: 7, 5, 8, 2, 9

Race 9: Class 3 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 17:00 

Another likely strong favourite here as (8) BEOLMAUI SIN tries two turns for the first time. He has a strong finish and should cope with the distance and while he only managed 3rd when favourite last start at 1400M, can return to winning ways today. (9) SISEON POCHAK was behind him that day and can be competitive but the main danger may be Peter Wolsley’s (5) WISH ME LUCK, already a class and distance winner, who unseated his jockey coming out of the gate last time out but should be given another chance today. (2) YANKEE DREAM and (7) KKEUTPANYEOWANG look best of the rest.

Selections: (8) Beolmaui Sin (5) Wish Me Luck (9) Siseon Pochak (7) Kkeutpanyeowang
Next Best: 2, 3
Rating: 8, 5, 1, 3, 7
Fast Starters: 3, 5
Start-200M: 3, 7, 9, 2, 5
200M-Finish: 8, 1, 5, 4, 7

Race 10: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 17:30 

(5) LLANO ESTACADO got his act together after seven indifferent outings and promptly started winning. He enters here up in class following a two length win over this distance on October 9th. He has plenty to find here but must be respected. (2) GABO STAR and (4) GABOGAPJJANG have the same owner and while the former should set the early pace, it’s the latter who may benefit from that and may well start favourite. He beat (6) BIHOJA by four lengths when running a close 2nd over class and distance three weeks ago. (8) YEGEURINA is up in class following her 2nd win in her last three and while she has plenty to find, she is unbeaten when ridden by jockey Yonekura Satoshi.

Selections: (4) Gabogapjjang (8) Yegeurina (5) Llano Estacado (2) Gabo Star
Next Best: 6, 3
Rating: 4=8, 6, 5, 1
Fast Starters: 2
Start-200M: 2, 3, 6, 4, 5
200M-Finish: 8, 4, 1, 6, 3

Race 11: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 18:00 

Competitive affair to finish with. (6) SUPER CHEOLIN didn’t quite manage to get up over the distance last time in a good race on October 28th. It was a tight finish though and he gets another chance today. (2) SHARP GALE landed a very good 2nd in a trial for the Jeju Governor’s Cup at the end of August and while she found herself a little overmatched in the Cup itself at Seoul last month, she performed creditably enough and must be considered back in this company today. (10) ACME and (11) SOUL BLADE are both up in class, the latter returning for the first time since beating Super Cheolin in September. Also up in class having triumphed over a mile last time is (5) PANGPANG HERO and he is likely to provide the early speed while (3) NAGASINDA was a winner over 1900M last time out and should be dangerous.

Selections: (6) Super Cheolin (11) Soul Blade (2) Sharp Gale (10) Acme
Next Best: 3, 5, 1
Rating: 2, 8, 6, 1=3
Fast Starters: 1, 5
Start-200M: 8, 2, 5, 6, 10
200M-Finish: 3, 4, 6, 10, 11

Cheongdam Dokki, I’m Your Father Claim 2yo Prizes

Big prizes were on offer for imported two-year-olds at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday . 23/1 outsider Cheongdam Dokki took the honours in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup at Seoul while at Busan, jockey Francisco Da Silva continued his recent run of form, guiding  well-backed I’m Your Father to victory in the Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo.

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Francisco Da Silva interviewed post-race

I’m Your Father (Tiznow) entered having won one of three starts so far with 2nd and 3rd places in the other two – all against older horses. Accordingly he was sent off as the slight favourite for the 1200M Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Cup, Busan’s most valuable race for imported juveniles. I’m Your Father, a $50,000 yearling purchase from the Fasig Tipton sale last autumn raced handy throughout, hitting the front early in the home straigth and running on to win by a dominant four lengths.

It was jockey Francisco Da Silva’s 11th Korean winner and he would quickly add another as he guided Main Stay to beat stablemate and Korean Oaks winner Ottug Ottugi and highly rated sprinter Perdido Pomeroy in the class 1 feature.

Seoul too hosted its most valuable race for juvenile imports on Sunday and if Busan’s was practically a procession for the winner, in the capital it was anything but. Spirit Of Hansen (Hansen) was sent off as a vulnerable favourite in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup but it was another 23/1 chance, Cheongdam Dokki (To Honor And Serve) who closed from 9th to 1st in the final furlong to snatch it on the line under Park Eul Woon.

Cheongdam Dokki cost just $20,000 at Keeneland’s yearling sale in 2015. The munhwa Ilbo was just his second lifetime start and he’s won both of them

Next week sees one of the biggest races of the season at Seoul in the shape of the President’s Cup. It’s Korea’s most valuable race of the season that’s restricted to domestic-bred horses.

Sunday Preview: Munhwa Ilbo, Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo (November 6)

Busy day of racing at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday with big prizes at both tracks for imported 2-year olds. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:50 to 17:00.

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Oaks Winner Ottug Ottugi faces Perdido Pomeroy on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

At Seoul, It’s the Munhwa Ilbo Cup and Spirit Of Hansen looks set to be favourite for a race that has attracted a full field of fourteen runners. Fourteen go too in Busan’s equivalent, the Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Cup, a really open event in which the excellently named I’m Your Father, Sillaui Jeonseol, and Wonder Wall are likely to be among the favourites.

Also at Busan, there is an intriguing match-up in the finale as two of the track’s best sprinters, Oaks winner Ottug Ottugi and Korea/Japan Cup winner Perdido Pomeroy face off over six furlongs. Races 9-11 at Seoul will be shown in Australia on Sky Racing 2. English race cards are here. Notes on those three races below:

Race 9: Class Open – The Munhwa Ilbo Cup / 1200M / Allowance (2yo Only) / KRW 200 Million / 16:35

Following three 2nd place finishes, (5) SPIRIT OF HANSEN was perhaps a touch fortunate to get his maiden victory last time out when his main rival missed the break enabling him to comfortably make all. Nevertheless he has shown enough to suggest he should be favourite to take this valuable prize with champion jockey Moon Se Young on board for the first time. (14) NEW CITADEL made his own breakthrough last time with a visually impressive win over 1400M and while the draw is far from ideal, looks the main danger. There are plenty of unknowns in the race though. (7) CHEONGDAM DOKKI and (2) GRACE CITY have both won their only starts to date and will have backers while (8) DOLKONG may have only managed 2nd on debut behind one of his rivals at the end of August but clearly needed further and gets it today. (12) INGWANGDO has also shown promise in two outings so far and is to be considered.

Selections: (5) Spirit Of Hansen (14) New Citadel (7) Cheongdam Dokki (8) Dolkong
Next Best: 12, 2, 11
Rating: 5, 14, 4, 1=2
Fast Starters: 3, 4, 5, 12
Start-200M: 12, 4, 3, 14, 10
200M-Finish: 8, 11, 7, 13, 14

Race 10: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 17:30

Nice competitive race here and while (6) SMART TIME found herself overmatched in the Jeju Governor’s Cup last month, she should go much better here in more amenable company. She races best when she gets a forward position from the gate and can do that today. (2) GREY KAISER beat a couple of these when racing 3rd over 1200M a month ago and will also be on speed today while (3) BAEKSAN can improve on a 6th place in tough company last start. (4) CUPID POWER and (12) SUN SHOT look best of the rest.

Selections: (6) Smart Time (2) Grey Kaiser (3) Baeksan (4) Cupid Power
Next Best: 12, 5, 1, 8
Rating: 85=85, 83=83, 82
Fast Starters: 2, 5, 6, 12
Start-200M: 12, 5, 1, 10, 2
200M-Finish: 4, 8, 7, 12, 3

Race 11: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 18:00

It took (10) WINNER RED six starts to get his maiden win but he’s now won four of his last five and tackles class 1 opposition for the first time here with every indication being that he can be equal to the task. Also up in class is (11) SAMBONG. He was a, eight-length winner over 1900M last month but is a very solid sprinter too and must be considered. (7) DIPLOMATIC MISSION was 2nd at class and distance three weeks ago and can match that today while (1) WORLD JJANG and (6) CITY HUNTER have proven competitive at this level, the latter having returned from seven months out with a solid 3rd last month. (4) SUN STRONG and (12) GUMANSEOK are longer shots who also can’t be ruled out.

Selections: (10) Winner Red (7) Diplomatic Mission (11) Sambong (4) Sun Strong
Next Best: 12, 1, 6
Rating: 12, 8, 10, 2=7
Fast Starters: 2, 7, 8, 9
Start-200M: 8, 9, 10, 2, 7
200M-Finish: 6, 11, 1, 2, 10

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 5)

There are twelve races at Seoul on Saturday with the first at 10:50 and the last at 18:00. English language race cards are here. Notes on races 5-12 below:

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:40 

Nice competitive one to start with and (8) WINNER BLACK came from off the speed to land 2nd place, beating (6) GOLD JANGGUN by a length in the process, over 1300M a month ago. The latter will be on speed today and both will be competitive with Winner Black slightly favoured once more. (2) SARYEONI WIN was an encouraging 4th on debut last month and can build on that today while (4) GOLDSTAR HILLS, who beat Saryeoni Win in trials, has shown improvement in two starts so far and is to be considered. The very experienced – although without a win in thirty outings – (9) FOUR J is also capable of scoring some money from off the pace.

Selections: (8) Winner Black (2) Saryeoni Win (4) Goldstar Hills (6) Gold Janggun
Next Best: 9
Rating: –
Fast Starters: 1, 6, 7
Start-200M: 1, 6, 2, 5, 4
200M-Finish: 4, 8, 2, 9, 6

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:25 

Another competitive race and while (9) DREAM MISS could only manage 7th when well fancied in a decent all-filly race over this distance at the end of September, she gets another chance here. She is a front-runner but although she weakened that day, back at 1000M today, she is the one to beat. On the other hand (4) THANKS BEAN may prefer further but will be dangerous under Imran Siddiqui while (7) SANGBIGUN is up in class following his maiden win at this distance three weeks ago and looks to have potential for more. He is another who will look to lead early. (3) YONGWANG SIDAE doesn’t enter in form but should have the beating of a few of these while (6) HANIL ENSEMBLE similarly can compete for the money.

Selections: (9) Dream Miss (4) Thanks Bean (3) Yongwang Sidae (7) Sangbigun
Next Best: 8, 10
Rating: 9, 1=10, 7, 4
Fast Starters: 6, 7, 9, 10
Start-200M: 9, 6, 10, 7, 1
200M-Finish 2, 9, 3, 10, 5

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:10 

Four of these enter this filly & mare contest having been winners last time out and it is (5) BOUNDING PARK, a visually impressive eleven length winner at this distance on October 1st, who is the pick to score again. However, her numbers haven’t been that impressive so far and she is up in class so there is plenty of reason to oppose too. Among the other last-time winners, (10) PHILLANIKE looks the most likely. She too caught the eye making all to win by no fewer than twelve lengths at 1200M last month and while the gate is not ideal, can win again. (3) SAETBYEOL ACHIM and (7) ECTON GAYA are proven money winners at this level and both should be aiming to improve on the 4th places they scored last time out. (8) GOODMORNING FUSION, an unexpected winner at this class on October 1st will get more respect this time.

Selections: (5) Bounding Park (10) Phillanike (3) Saetbyeol Achim (8) Goodmorning Fusion
Next Best: 1, 7, 9
Rating: 5=10, 3=8, 7
Fast Starters: 3, 5, 10
Start-200M: 3, 10, 5, 2, 8
200M-Finish: 6, 7, 8, 4, 3

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:00 

Two wins from four so far and a strong 2nd last time at domestic class 4, (3) SILVER HERO looks the pick here sent in against potentially weaker imported opposition. He’ll be on speed early and can go all the way. There are two promising imports sent in against him though. Both (11) DORAON NARI and (12) ANOTHER SMART ONE were 2nd on their respective debuts in early October with Doraon Nari perhaps showing a little bit more, albeit over 1000M. Those two will also want to be on speed early and can be competitive. (6) GONE WALKABOUT was 4th on debut behind Doraon Nalri and can build on that here while (9) CLEAN UP HERO looks the better of two debut-makers having shown some glimpses of talent in an October trial.

Selections: (3) Silver Hero (11) Doraon Nalri (12) Another Smart One (6) Gone Walkabout
Next Best: 8, 9
Rating: 10=11, 12, 3=4
Fast Starters: 3, 11, 12
Start-200M: 12, 11, 10, 7, 3
200M-Finish: 11, 10, 2, 3, 6

Seoul Race 9: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:30 

Brian Dean’s (6) JANGSAN ROCKY has won two of his last three, just getting up by a head in a competitive race over 1400M at domestic class 4. He’ll be on pace early and should have the beating of most of these. Another Korean-bred is the main danger. (9) SO ARA YEOWANG came from just behind the pace to record victory over 1200M at domestic class 4 a month ago. She’s won four of eleven to date and there looks to be more to come. Among the imports, (3) HWAGANG was an encouraging 5th on debut beaten by (7) TODAY WINNER, who was much improved. (5) HIPPOCRENE and (8) GUKJE MYEONGPUM are best of the rest.

Selections: (6) Jangsan Rocky (9) So Ara Yeowang (3) Hwagang (7) Today Winner
Next Best: 5, 8
Rating: 2, 9=12, 6, 1
Fast Starters: 1, 2, 6, 7
Start-200M: 7, 6, 1, 12, 10
200M-Finish: 5, 3, 9, 4, 8

Seoul Race 10: Class 5 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:00 

(4) HONEY BUTTER NINO has disappointed in both his last two starts but does get another opportunity here. If he can get on speed early he can go well and he is sure to be well bet once more in what is a competitive race. (1) CHUL AE and (8) CALL ME JK are both up in class despite neither having yet won but both should be competitive here while (9) SONOGONG and (10) SEUNGNISARANG look best of an average rest.

Selections: (4) Honey Butter Nino (1) Chul Ae (8) Call Me JK (9) Sonogong
Next Best: 10, 6
Rating: 9, 4, 2=3, 7
Fast Starters: 4
Start-200M: 9, 7, 3, 5, 2
200M-Finish: 5, 3, 4, 10, 7

Seoul Race 11: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 17:30 

(10) JANGSAN CITY could only manage 5th when coming from off the pace in a solid race at this class over 12000M on October 1st and back to 1400M today he can get it right. Brian Dean’s (2) OFFI SAEMI looks the main danger coming in after a solid 3rd place over 1200 in a tough race three weeks ago and likely to be ridden forward early today. (11) PRETTY BOY and (8) ÉCLAIR HUMOR ran 2nd and 3rd over class and distance on October 9th and both have potential to repeat today while (3) ON THE STAGE has been a surprise winner of both her last two outings and must be given some respect here.

Selections: (10) Jangsan City (2) Offi Saemi (11) Pretty Boy (3) On The Stage
Next Best: 8, 1
Rating: 3, 1, 11, 5=10
Fast Starters: 2, 3, 4, 8
Start-200M: 4, 8, 3, 6, 2
200M-Finish: 1, 2, 10, 11, 3

Seoul Race 12: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00 

(8) CHEONHABI was 5th when favourite in a tight finish over 1700M on October 9th. He drops back to 1400M today, will be on speed early and is one of three standouts here. (4) BLUSHING VOW returned from five months off with a good win at class and distance on October 1st and can follow up here. He will also want to be upfront early on. (5) HUGHES ROAD is two starts into a comeback following a six-month absence. He showed improvement last time at 1900M and should come on more today. (2) GIANT KILLER and (9) STORYTELLING should also show well.

Selections: (8) Cheonhabi (4) Blushing Vow (5) Hughes Road (9) Storytelling
Next Best: 2, 3
Rating: 8, 3=5, 4, 10
Fast Starters: 4, 8
Start-200M: 8, 4, 1, 5, 6
200M-Finish: 3, 8, 4, 2, 6

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 4)

November is here and it has been a suitably cold week on the Korean peninusla with temperatures dipping below freezing for the first time since March. It could be a long winter. And right on cue, Friday’s Busan races shift to daytime meaning the first of eleven events get underway at 11:30 and the last at 18:00.

There is plenty of action on Sunday too but for now English racecards are here and notes of Friday’s Busan races 4-11 are below:

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:35 

(6) EGSEU BAND tries further than the minimum distance for the first time and it could be what the 2-year-old colt needs. He’s been traveling nicely for 4th in each of his last two and can go better here. (4) DREAM ACE beat (1) HWAJEONG as the pair raced together at this distance on October 7th. The latter was favourite that day and although Dream Ace went on to record another 3rd place later that month it is Hwajeong who will be the more fancied here with a top jockey taking over in the saddle. (10) PYEONDAEMYEONGMUN was a much improved 3rd at the minimum at the end of September and looks ready to stretch back out to 1300M; she’ll be on speed early along with (2) SAMHYEONGJE, disappointing behind Egseu Band last time but with potential for improvement.

Selections: (6) Egseu Band (1) Hwajeong (10) Pyeongdaemyeongmun (4) Dream Ace
Next Best: 2, 9
Rating: –
Fast Starters: 2, 9, 10
Start-200M: 2, 6, 10, 4, 9
200M-Finish: 1, 2, 9, 6, 7

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:20 

Two 2nd places at class 6 sees Peter Wolsley’s (4) DINAH forced up in class today here but there’s little to be intimidated by here and she could well pull off her maiden victory. The main danger is (3) MOMENT, 2nd at class and distance on October 14th and the experienced gelding can at least match that here. Neither will necessarily lead from the gate. That’s more likely to be (6) KWAEDO YEOGEOL, 2nd in a weak race over this distance in early October having been beaten by Moment the time before. She’ll be competitive. (1) B.K. ONE and (7) LADY CHARTERED look best of the rest.

Selections: (4) Dinah (3) Moment (6) Kwaedo Yeogeol (1) B.K. One
Next Best: 7
Rating: 3, 6, 1=4, 8
Fast Starters: 1, 6, 8
Start-200M: 6, 8, 1, 4, 5
200M-Finish: 8, 4, 3, 2, 6

Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:05 

A winner on debut and then 3rd on her first try at this class three weeks ago, (1) YUSEONG FIRST is the pick to claim this all-filly (and one mare) affair. (10) BLUE TIME steps up in class and distance having secured her own maiden victory over five furlongs on October 14th and will be one of the main dangers. The experienced (3) USEUNG CHEONJI landed a very good 3rd place in a solid race over 1300M just two weeks ago and can seek the money once more. (6) DANCING BLAZE has been inconsistent in four starts so far but has a 2nd place at this distance at class 6 and showed she can compete at this level with a 5th place in a decent race on October 9th. She’ll also be on speed early. (4) FOCUS LINE looks to have scope for improvement.

Selections: (1) Yuseong First (3) Useung Cheonji (10) Blue Time (6) Dancing Blaze
Next Best: 4, 8
Rating: 1, 10, 5=7, 6
Fast Starters: 1, 6, 10
Start-200M: 10, 1, 6, 4, 8
200M-Finish: 10, 3, 4, 5, 6

Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:50 

It took Bart Rice’s (2) SWOOP seven races to get his maiden win but he’s gone on to land three in a row and, taking on potentially weaker imported opposition here, has every chance to get his fourth. Apprentice Choi Eun Gyeong is unbeaten on him and can continue that record today in Barry Irwin’s Team Valor colours. Another Korean-bred, (12) KWAEHAN MYEONGPUM, disappointing last start, looks among the main contenders to stop him. Aside from a disappointing run in wet conditions last start, she’s been in good form of late and must be considered. Among the imports, (8) SINHEUNG QUEEN won her trial in decent fashion and we’ll look for a promising debut while (11) POINT LUCK was a creditable 4th at his first attempt a month ago. (3) TAEGWON CHAMP is yet to win in eighteen but at this distance and in this company, should be looking for the money.

Selections: (2) Swoop (8) Sinheung Queen (12) Kwaehan Myeongpum (11) Point Luck
Next Best: 3, 1
Rating: 6, 9, 2=12, 3
Fast Starters: 1, 4, 6, 8
Start-200M: 1, 6, 11, 12, 2
200M-Finish: 3, 10, 7, 11, 9

Race 8: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:35

Kim Young Kwan’s (3) HWANGJEUI TANSAENG has won two of his last three and was only narrowly defeated last time. He’ll be on speed early here from a good draw and can go all the way. (7) SEUNGJEONPILSA and (8) SHARP WIN are both up in class after victories last start but you’d fancy both have plenty to find here which leaves (6) FIVE VICTORS, 6th behind Hwangjeui Tansaeng last start and (9) GANGHAN NAMJA, also beaten by Hwangjeui Tansaeng on his last start as the main dangers. (10) KWAEHAN YEONGUNG and (11) GIFTED SUN both look competitive at this level and should be considered.

Selections: (3) Hwangjeui Tansaeng (9) Ganghan Namja (6) Five Victors (11) Gifted Sun
Next Best: 2, 10, 7, 8
Rating: 3, 6, 2=4=9
Fast Starters: 3, 7, 11
Start-200M: 11, 7, 3, 4, 8
200M-Finish: 4, 9, 8, 5, 2

Race 9: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 17:00

Open contest this with a number having claims. (1) PUT IT BACK TIM beat three of these when racing 3rd over 1400M at the end of September. He’s a strong finisher and can come from off the pace here. He has only won once in fourteen starts though and at today’s distance, one of those he beat last time, (6) YOU’RE HILARIOUS has every chance of overturning that result. (11) GOLD MOON drops back in distance after several tries around two turns and is to be considered while the very experienced (5) JILJU HWASIN was 3rd in a decent contest at class and distance just two weeks ago and can repeat. (2) KWAESEOK BARAM and the reliable (8) FOR MY SIS are others to consider for the money.

Selections: (6) You’re Hilarious (11) Gold Moon (1) Put It Back Tim (8) For My Sis
Next Best: 5, 2, 9
Rating: 6=11, 5, 7, 3
Fast Starters: 3, 4, 7, 11
Start-200M: 7, 9, 3, 11, 6
200M-Finish: 8, 10, 2, 11, 6

Race 10: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 17:30 

(6) GASOK ENGINE defeated (11) HOSEUNGJIBYEOK as the pair ran 1st and 2nd over class and distance in wet conditions on September 30th. They should battle it out again and we’ll go for the Korean Oaks 3rd place-getter Hoseungjibyeok to take the honours today. (7) BARAMUI JEONSEOL is up in class following two consecutive wins and looks most likely to upset the favourites with (8) SEONGSAN PAECHEONG and (9) JEONGSANG JEAP the best of the rest.

Selections: (11) Hoseungjibyeok (6) Gasok Engine (7) Baramui Jeonseol (8) Seongsan Paecheong
Next Best: 9, 3
Rating: 6=8, 4=1, 7
Fast Starters: 4, 6, 9, 10
Start-200M: 9, 4, 10, 6, 7
200M-Finish: 3, 8, 5, 10, 11

Race 11: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 18:00 

(4) SEOUL BULLET pushed triple-crown winner Power Blade close in a Stakes race over this distance a month ago on what was just his second start back following well over a year off. He was six-for-six before his extended lay-off and can get back to winning ways here. Top-rated (5) WONIL GANGJA comes in looking for a hat-trick of victories. His past two have been achieved at reasonably lengthy odds and the same apprentice who won on him last time takes some weight off today and he can challenge the favourite. (2) MAC AND CHEESE returns to action for the first time since April. He looked is good shape when unhurried in a trial two weeks ago and can put in a good run first-up. (6) GOJI JEONGBEOL and (7) POKPUNG CHOEGANG can compete for minor money.

Selections (4) Seoul Bullet (5) Wonil Gangja (2) Mac And Cheese (6) Goji Jeongbeol
Next Best: 7, 3, 1
Rating: 5, 3, 1, 6, 4
Fast Starters: 1, 5
Start-200M: 3, 2, 5, 4, 1
200M-Finish: 7, 5, 4, 6, 3

Korea Owned J.S. Choice Set For BC Juvenile Turf

It looks like J.S. Choice will run in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf this coming Friday. The Todd Pletcher trained colt is owned by none other than the Korea Racing Authority Stud Farm.

I’m not going to claim this news sets the pulse racing to any great extent although the Korea Racing Authority and the racing media in Korea seem to be quite excited about it and there will be a sizable Korean contingent at Santa Anita to watch him. However, ultimately he’s an American horse, who has never set hoof in Korea, trained by an American trainer running in an American race ridden and will be ridden by an American jockey (Kent Desormeaux).

That’s not his fault though and he looks to be a promising horse. J.S. Choice has raced three times so far and having been 5th on his debut at Saratoga in August, he came back out at the same track to win at the second time of asking on September 5. He was then entered for the Group 3 Pilgrim Stakes at Belmont on October 1st and ran 2nd (albeit quite well beaten by Oscar Performance who also runs on Friday) and this has proven enough to allow him to take his chance at Santa Anita.

The experiment is not without merit and is not purely a vanity project. The idea is that he was purchased in the sales having been selected for potential value by the KRA’s “K-Nicks” database and then sent to a top American trainer. He will do his racing in the United States and will then be retired for Stud duties in Korea. Interestingly, he has done his racing on Turf and with the KRA serious about installing a turf track at Seoul – something that would arguably be the biggest development in racing history here and on which work has already begun – stallions who have demonstrated ability on the surface are going to be required and the Authority, Korean horsemen and also punters will all need to become familiar with racing on a surface that was meant to be raced on.

J.S. Choice [Congrats – Oil Empress (Empire Maker)] is named with a nod to 2007 Korean Triple Crown winner J.S. Hold. He runs in the Group 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf at Santa Anita on Friday November 4th with an expected morning line of 20/1. I haven’t quite decided if I’ll be setting my alarm for what will be early Saturday Seoul time, but I do really hope he does well.