Month: November 2021

President’s Cup Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (November 28)

It’s President’s Cup Sunday in Seoul. The big race has attracted a full field of sixteen and is race 8 on a 10-race program in the capital which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There are also 7 races in Busan from 11:10 to 16:40. All betting locations throughout the country are open at 80% of capacity, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

New Legend won the last edition of the President’s Cup, two years ago (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens kick the card off with just three of the twelve racing for the first time. (8) HANGANG CHAMP is set to be the favourite having come a good 2nd in a fast race on debut over this distance on October 30th. That followed an extremely unpromising trial, but he certainly seemed to know what to do on race day and with some natural improvement from that run, he can win. He’ll be a prohibitive favourite. Those wishing to take him on, may side with (7) GLOBAL PRIME. He beat a couple of today’s rivals when running on well for 5th on debut at this distance in a good time on October 31st. (10) GRAND POWER did nothing too wrong on his debut, recording a solid time when 6th at this distance and being close to the pace early. In contrast, (2) MAGIC RUSH came from off the pace to finish midfield in another decent time on his first attempt and is another in the placing frame here. (12) VICS GO, beaten by Global Prime on debut, perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(8) Hangang Champ (7) Global Prime (10) Grand Power (2) Magic Rush
Next Best12, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with just two of the twelve racing for the first time. There is some positive experience on show too. (1) RAON THE FLASH has raced twice so far, finishing 3rd on both occasions, both at 1000M in good times and most recently beating a couple of today’s rivals on October 29th. He has finished off his races well, draws the inside and can win. (2) UNJU HERO beat three of these on his way to 3rd place on debut at 1000M on October 22nd when racing on-pace throughout. He too draws well and will be expected to get a lead here with every chance of going one better. (7) JUMAL BOBAE and (11) ADELE STELLA came home 3rd and 4th respectively in that October 29th race behind Raon The Flash. Both were doing their best work late in that race and should benefit from the additional furlong today. (3) CHOEGANG MARINE was a much-improved 2nd at start number two on October 17th, coming from the middle of the pack and running on, and he is among a number of others with placing chances here.

Selections(1) Raon The Flash (2) Unju Hero (7) Jumal Bobae (11) Adele Stella
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A big field here but a hot favourite as (5) GLOBAL MAGIC has looked to be working his way towards a victory in his two starts to date, running 3rd and then 2nd, both times at 1000M. He has looked to have plenty of running in him at the finish the additional furlong today may well suit. (13) TAEYANGMA ran well enough when 3rd on debut to be given a crack at the Munhwa Ilbo Cup in early October. That didn’t go well as he knocked up very quickly to finish last. He has since had time off and then trialed and can be given another chance today. On both his debut and his trials, he has finished off well and Moon Se-young climbs aboard. (1) DAEBAK STAR has run well in both outings so far. He is an on-pace type so the inside gate should help his cause and he will be expected to lead. (7) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM and (3) FIRST CHOUX have also hinted at ability and may go close.

Selections(5) Global Magic (13) Taeyangma (1) Daebak Star (7) All For Your Dream
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 14 

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(12) GREEN SPEED steps up to this distance for the first time looking in good shape following a 3rd, a 4th and a 2nd in three outings to date. He has raced at the front and come from midfield and run on so the wide draw shouldn’t be too much of a concern and he can break through here. (4) USEUNG GANGJA comes in off a career-best to date 3rd place on November 7th when he also registered the fastest time of any of these at today’s distance. He looks nicely in here to match of better today. (5) PICTURE JASPER is a stablemate of Green Speed. She hasn’t done much in her three starts so far but ran on well enough on her return from six months out three weeks ago to suggest that the additional furlong today may help. (8) DAEHO PYEONGJEONG and (1) HAEUNDAE BLUE are others who may place.

Selections(12) Green Speed (4) Useung Gangja (5) Picture Jasper (8) Daeho Pyeongjeong
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies only here. (3) CHEOLLICHONG has been racing in tough company against the better juveniles of her crop and has been holding her own, True, she found things tough in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup at her latest start, but she can be forgiven that and given another chance today in shallower waters against more limited opposition. (11) TINA has the fastest time among those who have attempted the distance so far, something she achieved three starts back and she looks nicely in here to go close. (7) DREAM SPEED comes up in distance for the first time after three creditable attempts at 1000M. Like Cheollichong, she had been racing decent company and holding her own and may find this more amenable. (13) WONDERFUL WOMAN significantly improved at her second start, coming home in 3rd place. Her draw is not ideal here, but she has placing chances again. (14) DIAMITE another one from an even wider draw who can also enter the calculations.

Selections(3) Cheollichong (11) Tina (7) Dream Speed (13) Wonderful Woman
Next Best14, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(6) KKOTMURI was a big improver when stepped up to this distance for the first time on November 5th, sitting in midfield and then running on well for 2nd with four of today’s rivals behind him. He comes up slightly in the weights for that performance but nevertheless is the pick to go one better this time. (11) STORM BROWN came home in 3rd place in that race on November 5th. With an apprentice aboard, he has strong claims to go close again. (4) NAMDO ILDEUNG finished 4th in the same race, having previously run 3rd at the same distance. She draws nicely again and looks to be building up some consistency. (1) WINNER FALCON didn’t offer too many clues on debut when somewhat slow from a wide draw over 1200M and finishing in the middle of the pace. She had previously trialed well, and the extended trip may be in her favour. From the inside draw she may lead. (2) SLIM QUEEN another in the minor money hunt.

Selections(6) Kkotmuri (11) Storm Brown (4) Namdo Ildeung (1) Winner Falcon
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race. (1) PARAN WANGJA has run consistent times over this distance and while he was a slightly disappointing 5th over this distance at his latest start on October 9th, the margins weren’t huge. and it was arguably a tougher race than today. From the inside gate, he can get on pace early and could be the one to beat. (2) HI HI is another who has shown consistency and also holds the fastest time among these at this distance, although that was recorded back in March on a very wet track. He came from the middle of the field to run on for 3rd over 1400M at his latest start and is a danger here. So too is (12) LADY FIRST. She was a smart winner on debut in August at 1000M and while she could only manage 5th on her first try at class and distance back in September, she came back lame after that and can be given another chance here. (4) THUNDER CHAMP comes in following a runner-up finish over 1300M on October 16th when he led from the gate until the final furlong. He should be in the mix here too. (3) YUKWAEHAN NALDEUL is another who races for the first time since that race in September when she was beaten by Lady First. She will lead here and will be in this a long way.

Selections(1) Paran Wanga (2) Hi Hi (12) Lady First (4) Thunder Champ
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) HANEUL JEONSA was a commanding winner on debut on October 22nd, when he broke fairly but quickly worked his way to the front and ran to win easily. He comes up in both class and in distance today, but neither should be a problem and he can win again. (3) AGAIN TOUCH hasn’t quite kicked on from her excellent performance on debt but Touch Star Man’s half-sister should have enough about her to be competitive here. She wasn’t a factor in the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup but she gets a better draw than did in both that and her previous two races since her win and she should go close. (2) LIGHT STORY was similarly impressive on debut over 1000M but was flat on reappearance over 1400M three weeks ago. The drop back in trip may suit today. (11) UNJU EUTTEUM broke through two starts back at this distance before running 4th on his first try at this class over 1400M on November 7th, when he led for much of the way around. The draw is not great here, but he should be in the frame. (5) DAESEUNG E, a close at hand class and distance runner-up on October 31st, is another who enters the calculations in what is a good race.

Selections(8) Haneul Jeonsa (3) Again Touch (2) Light Story (11) Unju Eutteum
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 27)

Saturday is President’s Cup Eve in Seoul and there are 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. The feature class 1 event is the final race on the card and is a class 1 handicap over 1800M, where the old guard of Monhak Chief and Cheongdam Dokki will attempt to put the upstart Iron Socks in his place. All betting locations are open with an attendance cap of 80% of indoor capacity. Attendance must be pre-booked in advance using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required.

Moonhak Chief goes in Seoul’s Saturday feature (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but one of the twelve racing for the very first time. Several of the newcomers look competitive but we will side with the one who has experience. (11) RAON THE JET debuted on October 3rd and having settled midfield, ran on to finish 4th in a fair time.  Both the runner-up and the 3rd place-getter that day have since gone on to win their next starts and Raon The Jet can frank that race’s form here. (4) CUPID VOW was an all the way trial winner in a fair time on October 29th. He draws well to lead again and looks set to be the main danger. (5) GOOD NISEN ran 2nd in that trial having sat handy throughout and he too should be there or thereabouts again. Among the newcomers, (6) EAGLE POINT recorded the fastest time in trials and while it was a slightly wetter track than most faced, that alone is enough to being him into the calculations. (1) THUNDER NURI another who could go well first up.

Selections(11) Raon The Jet (4) Cupid Vow (5) Good Nisen (6) Eagle Point
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. We’re going to side with experience, though. (11) HWASUBOON has raced twice finishing 2nd on debut and then 3rd, both of them at this distance in good times. The draw is not ideal here but she should be able to overcome that and should have too much. (8) LUCKY INDY ran well on debut but then improved for 3rd place at start number two at this distance on October 24th, leading for much of the way. She should be on pace again and has every chance of going close. (12) BURUI KKOT similarly showed promise on debut when 5th in a decent time at the distance. She can come on for that run and while she draws the worst of all, can run on strong here. Maintaining the theme of the wide gates, (10) GREENBACK won a trial before putting in two creditable performances in the summer. She races for the first time since August and can go well first-up today. The first-timers don’t exactly leap out from the trial reports but (2) CUPID JUMBO perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(11) Hwasuboon (8) Lucky Indy (12) Burui Kkot (10) Greenback
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden. (14) MIGHTY SUNSHINE beat several of these by a decent margin on his way to 2nd place at this distance in a fair time on October 30th. He draws the car park today but he settled midfield and ran on last time so as long as he doesn’t find himself with too much to do, he can win here. (6) APPLE MINT came home in 3rd place that day. He was first-up following five months out and should have come on for that run. He has Perovic aboard and with the better draw could overturn the form on Mighty Sunshine. (2) YESULIYA steps up in trip for the first time following a solid 3rd place over 1000M on October 23rd. That was an uptick in form and from a good gate, he can continue to make progress. (5) PRINCESS DAY ran 4th in the October 30th race and along with (4) FIRST ROAD, is another in the placing frame

Selections(14) Mighty Sunshine (6) Apple Mint (2) Yesuliya (5) Princess Day
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Disregard the latest effort by (8) JEONGSEONG DAERO when he returned lame. He has been back in work for more than a month now and his form prior to that setback was good over the shorter distances. He finished off his races well and today’s extended trip may suit. Only four of these have raced at the distance before and (10) RUNNING NUMBER ONE probably has the right to be favourite based on his 2nd place at it two starts back when he ran on from midfield. It wasn’t a fast time but he should benefit from that experience and has every chance here. (9) HWARYEOHAN MISO has hinted at ability across three starts so far including a 2nd place two starts back at 1200M. He too has finished off races pleasingly enough and can adapt to two-turn racing. (2) MAGIC JOY and (1) SEONBONG GOLD others with minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Jeongseong Daero (10) Running Number One (9) Hwaryeohan Miso (2) Magic Joy
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 10, 11, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

The only filly in the race is (7) JOYFUL K and she comes in having run a close 3rd over class and distance at her latest start on October 30th when she overcame gate ten to sit handy and run on. She was beaten just under a length by (10) BEST TAP but gets the better of the draw today and can overturn that form. Best Tap is a big danger. He ran 2nd in that race continuing his consistent run of form at the distance and registering another good time. He is tactically versatile and won’t need to lead here so the draw shouldn’t be too much of a disadvantage. (9) YELLOW CAT comes up in class following a good win over 1300M on October 10th when she came from well off the pace to run on very strongly. She carries a nice light weight here and should measure up in this company. (12) BYEOLBIT BOSEOK is yet to win in seven attempts but has five top-four finishes and having overcome wide draws before, can go close again. (3) DAEWANGU another in the hunt in a very competitive affair.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 26)

It‘s President’s Cup weekend with the big race taking place in Seoul on Sunday. Before that the weekend’s action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 7 races from 12:40 to 18:00. All betting locations across Korea are open (at least for now) with an attendance cap of 80% of indoor capacity. There is no walk-up admission available and reservations must be made through the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

It’s Friday. It’s Busan.

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open the card with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. Having won a September trial, (8) SEOGWI PLUS debuted in a n all-filly race at this distance on October 24th and ran around in 2nd place the entire way, well-beaten by a good winner but comfortably ahead of the rest of the field. She won’t need to improve much on that to win here. The main dangers look to all be first-timers. (6) COLORFUL WIND crossed the line 1st in her trial having sat handy and finished off nicely. It was a fair time and should stand here in good stead here. (7) SKY JEJUHYANG made all to comfortably win her trial in an unhurried fashion and should enter the calculations. Likewise, (10) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG and (4) GREAT CAPTAIN came home 2nd and 3rd in their trial and both can have claims to go well first-up.

Selections(8) Seogwi Plus (6) Colorful Wind (7) Sky Jejuhyang (10) Eunseong Yeongung
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only in this big field class 6 maiden. After two goes at 1000M and one at 1400M, registering consistent times in all three, (10) GOLDEN POWER tackles this distance for the first time and is perhaps ready to win. She ran on well for 4th last start at 1000M and this could suit. (6) CHEONGMA POWER too looks to be working her way towards the winner’s circle. She has the join-fastest time of any of these for the distance and comes in having run a good 2nd and 3rd in her latest two. Today and apprentice takes 4kg off her back and that could be what she needs to make the breakthrough. She’ll most likely be on pace from the start and can go all the way. (11) LOOKING CAT is one of only two in the race who has won already, albeit all the way back in January over 1400M. She hasn’t raced since March and while she only trialed adequately, shouldn’t be overlooked. (4) DOCTOR TANGO has offered nothing in three previous outings but fairly bolted up in a trial two weekends ago and can be given another chance here. (2) UNBRIDLED QUEEN another in the hunt.

Selections(10) Golden Power (6) Cheongma Power (11) Looking Cat (4) Doctor Tango
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 13

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

It’s hard to look too far past (3) MISS GO here. Her win came in a super time two starts back over 1000M and she then ran a solid 4th in the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy on October 31st. She comes up in trip but from a good draw she can lead and it would be a surprise were she to be beaten. (4) FANTASTIC LEADER comes in following a good 2nd place over class and distance on October 24th when he sat midfield before running on and only very narrowly missing out. He comes up 3kg in the weights but should be competitive. (7) NICE WORLD came home in 3rd place in that October 24th race, continuing his run of very consistent form, finishing between 2nd and 4th in all five starts so far. He surely continues that record here. (12) INDIAN PART is yet to win in eighteen tries but is rarely far away with eight placed finishes. He doesn’t need to lead or be on pace so the draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can go close. (8) KING BROTHER another in the hunt.

Selections(3) Miss Go (4) Fantastic Leader (7) Nice World (12) Indian Party
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) WONDERFUL FAGER returned from five months out to get his maiden win over 1200M less than two weeks ago on November 14th. He looked full of running that day and while he is up significantly in distance time, they can strike while the iron is hot again here. It’s a competitive race though. (5) QUEEN OF HEARTS comes in following a decent class and distance 2nd place three weeks ago and from a nice draw can aim to repeat while (9) WONDERFUL WORLD is another up in class, in his case following a good win at this distance on November 12th when handy early before striking the front on the turn and running on well. He can measure up at this level. (3) K K WON is yet to win in fifteen attempts but has a solid placing record as well as the fastest time among these at a mile. From a great draw, he’ll be on pace and has solid claims to go close again. (12) LUCAS SUN generally makes up excellent ground late on and will surely be coming home strong. If he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he’ll be dangerous.

Selections(8) Wonderful Fager (5) Queen Of Hearts (9) Wonderful World (3) K K Won
Next Best12, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(5) DOCTOR CAESAR won his first two races at 1000M and 1200M, the latter at this class, before taking his chance in the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy, when he set a tough early pace before ultimately ending up in 3rd. He returns to shallower waters today and under a light weight and from a good gate he should on the lead from the start and prove very hard to beat. (10) MUJEOK BULPAE has proved very consistent across his nine starts to date. He beat a couple of these when 6th at his latest outing in a hot race over 1400M on October 31st and steps back in trip for the first time in a while. He has finished as runner-up on no fewer than five occasions and can do so again here. (3) WINNING DANCER has registered fast times in 2nd and 4th in his latest two. He runs on strong and should enter the calculations. (2) AMAZING FOOT and (7) BURNING FLY the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Doctor Caesar (10) Mujeok Bulpae (3) Winning Dancer (2) Amazing Foot
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 6: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

A winner of five from eleven so far and of both his latest two, (1) DOCTOR FASHION is the one to beat again here. He comes up 3.5kg from his latest score at class and distance on October 8th but from a great draw on the inside can get to the lead from the start and should have too much. Draw a line through the latest outing of (11) B J MISS when well beaten in the Luna Stakes Oaks trial over a mile in October. This should suit much better and while she is drawn wide again, she carries a very light weight and can be in the finish. (7) COPY THAT was a very good winner over this distance first-up on October 10th. He then ran 4th over 1400M on his first try at this class two weeks ago and can keep his good run going here. (4) YEONGGWANGUI TIME and (8) FUTURE KING are others with placing claims.

Selections(1) Doctor Fashion (11) B J Miss (7) Copy That (4) Yeonggwangui Time
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(3) ALPHA STAR was an all the way winner over a mile at class 3 level on October 1st. Up in class and in distance today, he draws nicely and while this is significantly harder, he has claims to win again. (12) MAN OF TOP beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at class and distance on October 22nd, continuing a recent run of good form. Gate twelve over 1800M at Busan is never easy but he doesn’t need to lead and if he can find a decent position then he can go close. (2) POKPUNG EONDEOK was a smart class 4 winner over a mile two starts back before running a very good 2nd to Fantastic Man at this class and distance back in August. This is his first start since then but he draws nicely and should figure in the finish. (9) QUATTRO MAX and (8) YEONGGWANGUI FIGHT are among others who should be in at least the placing frame.

Selections(3) Alpha Star (12) Man Of Top (2) Pokpung Eondeok (9) Quattro Max
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 12

Meni Hero Surprises At Busan While Raon The Fighter Upends Seoul

There were super features at both Busan and Seoul this past weekend as both tracks hosted their respective Owners’ Association Cups. At Busan there was a shock with Meni Hero leading home the field, while at Seoul a new star was born as Raon The Fighter dominated an elite set of sprinters.

The Busan Owners’ Cup on Sunday saw a quality field meet the starter over a mile, headed by Blue Chipper, along with Tiz Plan and Doctor Carson then a mix of young talented horse stepping into the higher levels Including Yeongung Louis a close 3rd in the SBS Sports Sprint to Eoma Eoma at level weights, as well and the unbeaten Success Macho.

They would all be beaten. The start was even other than Yeongung Louis veering out slightly and it would be Black Musk who led from Blue Chipper and the ever-reliable King of Glory.

Black Musk’s challenge would falter in the home straight while Blue Chipper would maintain his charge but drifted wide. Tiz Plan made his way forward but closing the best was 20/1 chance Meni Hero, who struck the front just over a furlong from home under jockey Ham Wan-sik, and ran on to win by just under two-lengths from a resurgent Tiz Plan. Wang Beotkkot closed strongly for an unlikely 3rd while Blue Chipper was an always game 4th.

It was a quantum rise in results for Meni Hero, whose only previous class 1 success had come two starts back over 1400M. By the great stallion Menifee, he is out of Pocketful Of Money (by Running Stag), who was a long time holder of the 1800M track record at Seoul Racecourse. Only four-years-old, there could be plenty to come. Tiz Plan showed he is still a force to be reckoned with in 2nd while Wang Beotkkot was a revelation in 3rd. As for Blue Chipper, he briefly hit the front with 300M remaining and while he couldn’t hold on, showed he still can’t be dismissed in any company.

A day earlier at Seoul Racecourse, an elite field lined up for the SROA Trophy at 1200M, headed by Eoma Eoma, winner of the SBS Sports Sprint and of ten races from twelve starts in total and East Jet, winner of nine races including last year’s edition of this race. The 2020 SBS Sports Sprint winner Morfhis was present, as was the unbeaten three-year-old Raon The Fighter, a winner of seven from seven up to Class 2 level in very fast times.

Eoma Eoma was sent off as the odds-on favourite but after an even start, Raon The Fighter quickly headed the field ahead of East Jet and with the favourite caught wide. It stayed that way until the home straight which Raon The Fighter entered a length clear. And then he just kept going.

Eoma Eoma put in a huge effort to find the fence and to grind out 2nd place from the fast-finishing Morfhis with East Jet in 4th. But they were running a different race to Raon The Fighter, whose jockey Park Tae-jong was afforded the luxury of being able to ease his mount in the closing stages having taken a long leisurely look back over his shoulder. The margin of victory was six-lengths on the line in a time barely outside the track record.

It was a statement performance that has turned the existing order on its head. Eoma Eoma didn’t get the greatest of trips but even so, there are few similar races in history in Korea that his performance would not have won. While Raon The Fighter entered unbeaten, there is always the question in such circumstances of whether they will match up in truly elite company. The answer was an emphatic “yes”. Where Raon The Fighter goes next, or even what distance he tackles, as he has won up to 1800M already, is the hottest topic in Seoul right now.

Raon The Fighter is a three-year-old colt by Bayern and out of Clarinda (by Empire Maker). He was imported in-utero which meant that although he is officially classed as Korean-bred, he was ineligible for the three-year-old Classics this year. There is no limit on what races he can take part in from now on though, and it would seem there is no limit in his potential.

Busan Owners’ Cup Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (November 21)

After Raon The Fighter’s spectacular win in the Seoul Owners’ Association Chairman’s Trophy in the capital on Saturday afternoon, it’s the turn of Busan to stage its edition on Sunday. The Busan Owners’ Cup is Korean Group 3 and will be run over a mile. It features the likes of Blue Chipper, Doctor Carson, Tiz Plan as well as the unbeaten Success Macho. There are 7 races at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40 and 10 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. All locations are open for customers, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

It’s more than 2 years since Blue Chipper blew away the Owners’ Cup field (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens to begin with and six of the eleven will race for the first time. (11) YONGHOJIMA is set to be a warm favourite. Following a promising trial, the Take Charge Indy colt ran 2nd on debut over this distance on a fast time, settling midfield and running on. The draw is not ideal, but it shouldn’t matter. The optimistically named (10) QUEEN OF RACING ran a useful enough 5th on debut at this distance in a fair time from the same wide gate she draws today. (2) FOREVER DREAM has improved across two starts so far, running a fair time when 5th over this distance at his latest. He draws nicely again here and shouldn’t be discounted. Among the first-time starters, (6) MABAWI looks the pick. The Rock Hard Ten colt was a front-running 2nd in his October trial in a good time and from a nice central draw can go well first-up. (8) BEAT UP another first-timer with claims.

Selections(11) Yonghojima (10) Queen Of Racing (2) Forever Dream (6) Mabawi
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the ten racing for the first time. However, it’s hard to look past (4) I WILL BE FREE. He ran a close 2nd on debut in a fast race over 1000M on October 15th, settling midfield and running on strong. He shouldn’t need to improve on that performance much, if at all, in order to win here. (6) FUNNY LIFE has a 4th and a 3rd in two starts so far, both in fair times at this distance. She is likely to be on pace here and should be involved at the business end of the race. So too should (10) YEONGCHEON SOLE MIO, who ran 5th to Funny Life’s 3rd when they race each other at this distance on October 17th. Were it not for the widest gate, he may even have been favoured to overturn that form. Among the first timers, (3) ILNYEOM CHEONHA ran a decent 2nd, running on well and can be considered first-up. (5) VICTORY NINE, who benefits from an apprentice claim this time, is another in the hunt.

Selections(4) I Will Be Free (6) Funny Life (10) Yeongcheon Sole Mio (3) Ilnyeom Cheonha
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies here. (6) SISEON JUMA comes back in trip after a run over 1300M when from a wide draw, she was slow away and ultimately ended 6th. We’ll go on her previous showings at this distance though, including a 2nd place in a good time. With a good gate today – or at least better than last start – she has claims. Likely favourite is (1) SWEET CAMP. Two starts back she came close to making all over this distance, ending in 2nd and then from a handy position ran 3rd at her latest try. From the inside gate she will on pace early and has every chance of leading all the way. (10) BOOSTER ROCKET comes in off an improved 2nd place over 1300M at her last start in September. She’s had ten weeks off since then, but the wide draw shouldn’t be of concern, and she can go close again. (3) SILVER STAR and the first-up (7) DELPHINI are other minor money hopes.

Selections(6) Siseon Juma (1) Sweet Camp (10) Booster Rocket (3) Silver Star
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A big field for this standard maiden. Only three of them have a runner-up finish to their name and we’ll side with (1) DROMOS to take full advantage of her inside gate to lead early and all the way. She comes in following 2nd place at this distance on October 22nd, her third career start, and with a touch of natural improvement, she can win. (10) BLUE SKY ran 3rd on debut at this distance on October 10th, beating a couple of todays rivals in the process. She had previously shown consistency in a couple of trials and can make progress here. (14) ADELE BOSS is down no favours at all by the draw, he has a very nice turn of foot about him. With a 2nd and a 3rd in his latest two, both at 1000M. He steps up in trip for the first time and if the gates were reversed between hm and Dromos, so might the top picks. (4) WONDERFUL SMARTY is yet to finish in the top two in sixteen attempts but has plenty of minor money finishes in races like this, while (2) SPRING FIRE is another who shouldn’t be too far back

Selections(1) Dromos (10) Blue Sky (14) Adele Boss (4) Wonderful Smarty
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 10, 12, 14

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

We’re set to have a warm favourite here in the shape of (3) WONDERFUL NIKIYA. She is yet to win in thirteen attempts but has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and comes in after a solid 3rd place on October 23rd when she was handy to the pace throughout. This is arguably a weaker race and from a great draw she can get to the lead right away and she can win. (4) BROWN CHARM has mixed his form across three starts so far but he comes up in trip here at it may well suit. Punters will certainly be alert to Moon Se-young’s presence aboard. (5) CURRERECUS has been consistent, if not exactly quick, across ten starts today and that consistency may see him to another place finish today, while (8) M J STORM and (2) HELLO GEUMSEONG are others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Wonderful Nikiya (4) Brown Charm (5) Currerecus (8) M J Storm
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

She is yet to win but (9) CHEONGHO LEADER has five top-five finishes from eight starts so far as well as the fastest time of any of these at the distance by some margin. She beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place at her latest start on October 29th and has proven versatile in running well when on pace or from behind. She is favoured here. (6) YEONSEUNG BRAVO is a clear second pick. He ran 5th behind Cheongho Leader two starts back before leading until the home straight over a mile in his latest outing. He will run on here and can be dangerous. (3) MONEY BAG has mixed his form across his eight starts so far but he is by no means alone in that. On his day he has some talent, and he has a great draw here. (7) BEST HAMSEONG has a 4th and a 5th from two starts so far, both at 1200M. He is expected to be on the pace here and can be involved for a long way. (8) EDGE has just raced the once and could be the wildcard.

Selections(9) Cheongho Leader (6) Yeonseung Bravo (3) Money Bag (7) Best Hamseong
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race here. (1) LUCKY APPEAL was a winner at this distance at class 6 level two starts back before coming from well off the pace to dead heat for 3rd on his first try at this class on October 23rd. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races, but the inside gate should give his jockey some options and while his running style does mean he may need a bit of luck, he can win. (4) M J BEST comes back up to this trip for the first time since January. He has come on plenty since then and has been running very consistent times over 1300M at this class. He too can get a bit far back, but he has claims here. If you prefer front-runners then despite the wide draw, (10) WINNER IS WELL may be the way to go. He is racing for the first time since May but looked well when trialing two weeks ago and could be a winner first-up today. (12) REAL PACK draws the car park and comes up in class but posted a good time when 2nd at this distance at his latest start and can measure up here. (9) MAD BLADE can have a line drawn through his latest and is worth another chance here.

Selections(1) Lucky Appeal (4) M J Best (10) Winner Is Well (12) Real Pack
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 9, 10
(more…)

SROA Trophy – Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 20)

It’s a rare Saturday Stakes at Seoul as nine sprinters line up in the SROA (Owners’ Association) Chairman’s Trophy over 1200M. They include SBS Sports Sprint winner Eoma Eoma and last year’s winner East Jet, as well as the unbeaten up and coming three-year-old Raon The Fighter. The big race is race 8 of a ten-race card in the capital that runs from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open to customers however there is no walk-up admission and all attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

The sprinters reconvene at Seoul on Saturday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the twelve racing for the first time. One of those debut-makers is set to be the favourite in the shape of (7) RAON THE GOLD. The Musket Man filly looked very accomplished when going around in 2nd place in a trial in a good time last month. She should be on the speed here from the start, Moon Se-young rides and she is the one to beat. Of those with prior experience, (4) MAY BLADE and (3) WILD SOCKS both put in capable debuts over this distance running 5th and 6th respectively, both over this distance. Both draw well here and can show progress. (8) DUSON DRIVE too didn’t do too much wrong on his first-start a month ago and can improve today. Returning to the debut-makers, (11) JANGSAN POISON is another who trialed up promisingly.

Selections(7) Raon The Gold (4) May Blade (3) Wild Socks (8) Duson Drive
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile first-timers with precisely half the field of twelve making their racing debuts. (6) P N S GOLD won a trial in fine style on November 22nd, finishing in front of Raon The Gold, who was scheduled to debut in race 1. The Klimt filly carries a very light weight here and looks the one to beat. (10) SUNNY BLADE ran adequately on debut, settling back in midfield and running on for 5th in a fair time. She can improve here. (8) RALLY QUEEN ran around for 6th on her debut and while well back behind an excellent winner, showed enough thing at some potential. Returning to the debut-makers, (12) FOREVER KHAN trialed up pleasingly in a good time just two weeks ago. He has the disadvantage of the draw here but may be considered. So too (1) HWIPARAM who worked forward from a wide gate in her trial and ran on well.

Selections(6) P N S Gold (10) Sunny Blade (8) Rally Queen (12) Forever Khan
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Yet more juvenile maidens but all of these have raced at least once. It’s hard to look too far past (6) HWARANG TODAY. After winning a trial, he debuted on October 23rd over 1000M and sat midfield before running on strongly for 2nd in a good time behind a promising winner. The additional furlong should be in his favour, and he can win this. From caller’s perspective, (8) THE FAVORITE is somewhat irritatingly named, but she has shown ability over her two starts to date, finishing 4th and 3rd at 1000M, both in good times. She too may appreciate the greater distance and can be competitive here. (3) HATMURI has a similar record to Hwarang Today, having won a trial before running a decent 3rd on debut on October 16th. That day’s runner-up went on to win last week so the form from the race is holding up and it would be no surprise if Hatmuri were to go close here. (2) RAON THE TEUKGEUP and (9) EUNHYE are others in the frame.

Selections(6) Hwarang Today (8) The Favorite (3) Hatmuri (2) Raon The Teukgeup
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(5) CHEONMA BISANG has a 5th and a 2nd from two starts so far and looks ready to win here. She has got a little far back in both starts so far but has run on well both times and today finally draws well instead of very wide. She may take some beating. (3) K N TEUKGEUP wasn’t too far away from 6th over this distance and in a fair time at the end of October. A similar run today should put him in the finish. (4) MAESTRO comes in after back to back 5th place finishes, the latter at 1400M. He hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but he sees out his races nicely enough and that can be enough to have him in at least the placing frame here. (7) DDATTEUTHANBIT and (6) RED MOUNTAIN perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(5) Cheonma Bisang (3) K N Teukgeup (4) Maestro (7) Ddatteuthanbit
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky one as nothing is hugely convincing. We’ll take a chance on (5) TK PLEX, who comes in first-up here having last been seen in July. That day he ran 3rd under Munro, having run on well. It’s a fresh start here and from a nice gate he has as good a chance as any, probably at a decent price. Likely favourite is (2) BIG ENERGY. His latest three have been strong with a pair of 4ths and most recently a runner-up finish in a fair time at this distance on October 31st. He draws well and won’t need to improve much to win this. (9) TEN BAGGER has improved across three starts so far with 4th place at 1000M being his most recent. He comes up in trip here but he has gone well back in all three appearances so far before running on, so it may suit, and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (3) MUNHAK FOREST and (1) PEPE RUN are the other conceivable placers.

Selections(5) T K Plex (2) Big Energy (9) Ten Bagger (3) Munhak Forest
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 7
(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 19)

There is Stakes race action at both Seoul and Busan this weekend in the shape of the respective track’s “Owners Association Trophies”. Seoul’s is on Saturday and features Eoma Eoma taking on old rivals East Jet and Morfhis, as well as unbeaten up-and-comer Raon The Fighter over 1200M. On Sunday, Busan’s version is over a mile and involves Blue Chipper, Doctor Carson, Tiz Plan and the unbeaten Success Macho. The action gets underway though at Busan on Friday with a standard 7-race card from 12:40 to 18:00. All racecourses and betting locations are open to customers this weekend, however attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are Friday’s previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with seven of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) OCEAN STORM impressed across two trials a week apart in early October, especially in the latter of them when held together to lead all the way around in a good time on the bridle. If she can bring that form to the races, she has an excellent chance of an immediate breakthrough. (1) SHY DRAGON ran a good 2nd on debut when on pace throughout. She faded back in the field on her second attempt on October 22nd having worked hard to get forward from a wide draw, From the inside today she should get an easier run and has solid claims. Like Ocean Storm, (4) MIGHTY STORM was held together similarly well in a front-running trial and can go well first-up. (11) INSATIABLE ran well on debut when wide early before shifting across the fence and running on. She may need to do similar from the widest gate today. (5) BAEK GU is another of the debut-makers who showed ability in trials.

Selections(9) Ocean Storm (1) Shy Dragon (4) Mighty Storm (11) Insatiable
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(4) CATCH THE SKY is set to be favourite having come from off the pace to run a good 2nd behind Lane Killer at class and distance on October 31st, beating several of these in the process. That was his first go at a mile and it seemed to suit and he can go one better this time. The main dangers all come out of that race too. (5) OLD CHEONHA showed some improvement in that race, running 5th. He draws slightly better today and can continue to improve. (3) CHEONGMA YEONGUNG was 4th in the race. He usually goes right back and runs on but was ridden in midfield that day and a similar run can be expected here. (1) ROCKET GO was on pace throughout in the October 31st race, ultimately ending up a surprise 2nd. He draws well here and should be in the mix again. If that October race doesn’t impress, then among those who didn’t take part in it, (6) KING GRACE is perhaps the pick.

Selections(4) Catch The Sky (5) Old Cheonha (3) Cheongma Yeongung (1) Rocket Go
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A very competitive race with numerous possible winners. (3) GOLD LUCK comes in off a 4th place just a couple of weeks ago when he led for much of the way only to weaken a little in the final furlong of a mile. He comes back down in trip today and strongly into contention. (8) AFLEET TAPIT returned from four months out to win a good 2nd over this distance on October 29th. He comes up in class but down in the weights and should measure up here. (11) DOCTOR PHARAOH never really got going on his first go at this class over 1200M in early October. He steps up to this distance for the first time and is perhaps worth another chance here. (9) DONGBANUI SIJAK is a winner at this class over a mile and also has the fastest time of any of these over this distance. He can come from off the pace and should be doing his best work late here. (2) WILD BLUE another in at least the placing frame.

Selections(3) Gold Luck (8) Afleet Tapit (11) Doctor Pharaoh (9) Dongbanui Sijak
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(9) WONDERFUL KING was a winner at this distance at class 5 level three starts back and has since run 2nd and 3rd in two goes at this class over 1200M and 1400M. He comes up slightly in the weights but carries similar to when he won and can settle behind the lead and run on to win here. (8) NAMDO QUEEN had a hard time in last month’s Luna Stakes Oaks trial. She comes back in trip and into much more amenable waters here and should improve. (2) CAPTAIN GIRL comes up in class following a front-running win at this distance on October 24th. It was in a decent time too, and from a good draw she should be competitive at this level. (11) MINYEOBONG and (5) MASTER QUEEN came home 4th and 5th respectively when they raced each other at class and distance on October 22nd and both should be in the hunt for the places here.

Selections(9) Wonderful King (8) Namdo Queen (2) Captain Girl (11) Minyeobong
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A small but competitive field here. (8) GALLANT WARRIOR is set to be the favourite and is probably the one to beat having scored a good class and distance 3rd on October 29th with three of today’s rivals behind him. The draw shouldn’t matter and can run on strong. (3) LANE KILLER comes up in both class and distance following a maiden win at start number four over 1600M three weeks ago when leading from gate to wire. There is nothing too much to fear here and he can fit in at this level. (4) GEUMA GOOD POINT comes back up in trip following a solid 3rd over a mile at his latest start a month ago. He is a potential early leader here and should be in contention for a long time. (7) CENTUM THOR is yet to win in ten attempts but consistently picks up minor money and can do the same here. (2) TRIPLE STORM, up in class and distance after scoring over 1200M in October, is the wildcard.

Selections(8) Gallant Warrior (3) Lane Killer (4) Geuma Good Point (7) Centum Thor
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(11) CLEAN SHOT overcame the same wide draw to run 2nd at class and distance on October 15th when he settled back, improved to midfield and then ran on well. He is yet to win in nine attempts but that continued a consistent run of form since coming up in trip and he should be there or thereabouts again here. (9) TOP MATE has won just the once but has seven runner-up finishes to his name from thirteen starts. He comes in following a rare 3rd place at class and distance on October 17th and while he carries plenty of weight, should be in contention. So too (12) ADELE PUPIL. She had a poor day at the office in that October race behind Top Mate but previously registered a 2nd place at this distance at class 3 level. Barrier twelve at 1800M at Busan is a hard ask but she can overcome it. (10) DUNCAN and surprise last-start winner (1) YEONGBONGSAN are others in the frame.

Selections(11) Clean Shot (9) Top Mate (12) Adele Pupil (10) Duncan
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 9, 10, 12

Busan Race 7: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

After having a hard time over 1800M and in the KRA Cup Mile, (7) MACH TITAN returned to winning ways over a mile at class 3 level on November 7th and quickly backs up here in class 2 company for the first time. He comes back in trip but draws fairly enough and he has enough ability to win this. The main danger appears to be (10) SONIC KING IJI. He was a winner at this class over 1200M in a super time two starts back and while he could only manage 4th over this distance at his latest outing on October 15th, he needs to be taken seriously here. (8) AKER’S DREAM enters in very consistent form and while he comes up in class here he comes down significantly in weight and his times are competitive for this level. (12) JANGSAN DOKKI comes back to one-turn for the first time in a while and looks nicely in despite the wide draw. The up in class (6) QUEEN OF THE WORLD another who can enter the calculations.

Selections(7) Mach Titan (10) Sonic King Iji (8) Aker’s Dream (12) Jangsan Dokki
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 12

Luigi Riccardi & Antonio Da Silva Win Korean Oaks With Choegang Black

Luigi Riccardi landed his biggest winner to date as a trainer in Korea as Choegang Black denied hot favourite Raon Pink to win the Korea Oaks at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Choegang Black was sent off as a 70/1 outsider for the filly Classic having skipped the Luna Stakes prep race and having only won up to class 5 level in Seoul. The Oaks has a habit of producing an unexpected winner though and when Raon Pink was a little awkwardly away after a start that had been delayed following the reluctance of Queens Tour to load, it was clear that the race was anyone’s.

Pureun Jangmi showed the way early with Luna runner-up Jedi for company along with Miss Indie and 2nd-favourite Doctor Fappiano. Antonio Da Silva meanwhile, kept Choegang Black just behind the leading group throughout the early and middle stages of the 1800M race.

At the top of the stretch Raon Pink, under Park Tae Jong, loomed large and one-by-one the challengers fell away. All except Choegang Black that is, who to the inside of the favourite struck the front with a furlong and a half remaining and ran on superbly to win by just over a length on the line.

Raon Pink was 2nd while Serve Ace and Alan Munro came from last to 3rd in the space of the home straight. Queens Tour was 4th and Eodigana 5th as Seoul fillies swept the top-five placings

For Luigi Riccardi, who has been licensed in Korea since the end of 2017, it was by far his biggest local win. For jockey Antonio Da Silva, it was a third Group winner in Korea following success on Dolkong in the 2019 KRA Cup Classic, and Munhak Chief in the Grand Prix the same year.

Choegang Black is by Purge and is out of Allwise (by Mr. Greeley). She was bred by Nokwon Farm and is owned by Lee Kang-woon.

Korean Oaks 2021: Runner-By Runner Preview

Raon Pink was a crushing winner of the Luna Stakes last month and on Sunday the Musket Man filly returns to Busan as the hot favourite to win the 2021 Korean Oaks (1800M KOR-G2). The Oaks is race 6 on Busan’s Sunday card with a post time of 15:50 in Busan. CLICK HERE FOR SUNDAY’S RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW

Raon Pink, seen here in the Luna Stakes Parade Ring returns to Busan as favourite for the Korean Oaks

Remarkably, of the twelve who will line up, no fewer than nine of them have travelled down from Seoul, including Raon Pink, who won the Luna Stakes by a full eight-lengths on October 17th. That was over a mile, but such was her superiority, few expect the additional furlong to cause problems.

Busan may only field three but among them is something One thing that Raon Pink didn’t have to contend with in the Luna, and that’s Doctor Fappiano. Long thought of as the most forward filly of her crop, the Old Fashioned filly missed the Luna due to a setback but takes her chance in the Oaks as likely second-favourite.

Doctor Fappiano has won at the 1800M distance already and was only three-lengths behind subsequent Derby winner Winner’s Man when they faced each other in August.

All top-five placegetters from the Luna Stakes return for the Oaks while Miss Indie, who finished back in the pack that day, will be expected go better. In addition to Doctor Fappiano, the likes of Cupid Point, Pureun Jangmi and Choegang Black make for interesting newcomers to the Filly Triple Crown trail.

Long-shots have prevailed in the most recent editions of the Korean Oaks, with Ottug Ottugi in 2016, the last pre-race favourite to win the race. Here is a full run down of all the runners:  

1. SMART OFFICER [Officer- So Chic (Private Terms)] – Has only raced five times and won u to class 5 level over 1300M. In the Luna Stakes she was the slowest away and a long last on settling but by the corner had tacked onto the field and looked full of running. She then made excellent ground wide to run 3rd, a super run in the circumstances. Based on that she can’t be ruled out.

2. CHOEGANG BLACK [Purge – Allwise (Mr. Greeley)] – Gets her chance following a class 5 win over 1400M at class 5 level last month when handy to the lead before running on strong in a good time. Two starts back she came from midfield to run 3rd in a fair time over 1700M, her only experience of racing around two-turns. She won’t be among the favourites here, but she draws nicely to find a good position and a top jockey has been persuaded to go down to ride her. Could be interesting.

3. RAON PINK [Musket Man – Pink Candy (Southern Image)] – A filly who has been in outstanding form and in the Luna Stakes jumped well and worked to the lead setting a good pace and slipped away from the field on the corner to go well clear and was still strong at the finish. It’s an extra furlong today but she draws the same gate as in the Luna and a similar performance will make her very hard to beat. Full-sister to Raon First, established at class 1.

4. CUPID POINT [Concord Point – A Girl Named Phil (Distorted Humor)] – Enters in very good form with two wins from her last three. Last time out over 1700M at class 4 level she sat handy to the lead before running on in the final furlong for victory in a good time. That was at the end of August so she has had a bit of time out but from a good draw and under a top jockey, she can go well. Look for her running on late.

5. EODIGANA [Smarty Moonhak – Beneficial Friend (Street Boss)] – Great to see a Smarty Moonhak running in a big race and while she won’t be among the favourites, she is one of only two in the field who has won over 1800M. That came at her latest start on October 10th at class 4 level when she sat behind the lead before taking things up just over a furling out and running on for a comfortable win. This is harder but she can be competitive.

6. SERVE ACE [Tiz Wonderful – Havisham (Bernardini)] – A super winner over 1400M at class 5 level in July she has been perhaps a touch disappointing in her latest two when 6th behind Cupid Point in August and then 4th at her latest four weeks ago, both over 1700M at class 4. She can lead or settle back and run on and Munro remaining loyal and traveling down is a plus, but others are favoured.

7. JEDI [Cowboy Cal – Bichui Yeowang (Midnight Lute)] – Showed promise as a juvenile and has maintained her form this year. She only has three wins from eleven, her latest being at class 4 over 1200M in June but she ran a big race to finish 2nd in the Luna Stakes when settling withing striking distance before saving ground on the turn and then running on strong to the line. Ran 2nd on her only try at 1700M at class 5 level so distance not a concern and she should be in the placing frame again.

8. MISS INDIE [Indie Band – In Escrow (Vindication)] – Half-sister to Mr. Afleet, who won the KRA Cup Classic (KOR G2) over 2000M at Seoul three weeks ago. Her wins came at class 6 level but her two runner-up finishes were behind Hill More and Alpha Star, both of whom are useful. She was away well from the inside gate in the Luna and was prominent for a long time before Raon Pink’s tempo perhaps took its toll. Should have come on for the experience and with likely less early intensity in this race, can improve.

9. QUEENS TOUR [Colors Flying – Daisy A Day (Smart Strike)] – Sole win to date came ay class 6 level over 1400M but she’s earned her spot here through a 5th place in the Luna, when she settled in the rear division but finished strongly, passing plenty of tired fillies in the final coupe of furlongs. Likely to employ similar tactics today, minor money again would be a very good result.

10. DOCTOR FAPPIANO [Old Fashioned – Feversham (Distorted Humor)] – A setback caused her to miss the Luna Stakes, a race for which she would have been favourite. That was before the blistering performance of Raon Pink but Doctor Fappiano has excellent claims. She ran 3rd behind subsequent Korean Derby winner Winner’s Man two starts back at class 2 level over this distance and then stepped back to class 3 and won, again at today’s distance on September 5th. She is a front-runner, so Raon Pink has got the better of the draw but don’t rule her out. Big Chance.

11. PUREUN JANGMI [Old Fashioned – Dancing Desire (Mr. Greeley)] – Lightly raced with just four starts but she has two wins and two runner-up finishes, including her latest, an all the way score over 1400M at class 5 level on October 15th. This is stiffer and it is not easy from a wide gate over 1800M at Busan. She clearly has potential though and the trainer/jockey combination will make plenty take note. Interesting wildcard.

12. YEONGGWANGUI MISO [Hansen – Perfect Scip (Scipion)] – Gets her chance here having run 4th in the Luna when settling midfield from a similarly wide barrier and in the straight challenged Jedi in 3rd all the way in a run full of merit. She will need plenty of luck from the widest barrier, but she should be able to give a good account of herself again.

Oaks Day 2021: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (November 14)

The 2021 Korean Oaks will be run at Busan on Sunday afternoon – full horse-by-horse preview to follow. There are 7 races at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40 and 10 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. The racecourses and all betting locations are open at restricted capacity, however, there is no walk-in admission and attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is also required. Here are the previews:

Uaryung won the Oaks last year (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A small field of juvenile maidens assemble for the opener with a few standouts. Both of (5) CHEONJI JIDAE’s starts to date have been over 1000M and both times he has recorded decent times, finishing in 3rd and 4th and running on well. He steps up to 1200M here and should have solid claims to be on pace throughout. The main danger is (8) CHAMJOEUN CHINGU. She too has operated only at 1000M prior to today and ran an improved 3rd on her second start on October 17th. She’s from a red-hot stable and can continue to show progress here. (6) SPEED GALLOP similarly improved to 2nd place at start number two on October 10th. She was a long way behind a good winner, but she ran on well and the additional furlong may suit. Solitary debut-maker (3) TITAN SOCKS led in his most recent trial, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place in a fair time and can go well first-up. (4) JILJUE BADA is one of only two who have tackled the distance before and could challenge for the places.

Selections(5) Cheonji Jidae (8) Chamjoeun Chingu (6) Speed Gallop (3) Titan Socks
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Small field of two and three-year-old maidens. (8) WONDERFUL FAGER looks set to be the one to beat, despite returning from twenty-two weeks out. He’s finished 3rd in three of his four starts and finished in that very same position in a trial two weeks ago. He can sit handy here and run on strong. (2) DAEHO NURI comes in having taken his chance in a Listed juvenile race last time out when he ran 6th of ten in a fair time over this distance. He showed handy to the lead that day and will be expected to do similar today with solid claims to be in this a long way. Also likely to be on pace this time will be (3) ADELE CHUKBAE, who may appreciate the step up in trip. All three of his starts so far have been at 1000M and with a slightly less intense early part of the race here, he can find a better position. (5) NEW CROWN and (6) WONDERFUL DIGGER are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(8) Wonderful Fager (2) Daeho Nuri (3) Adele Chukbae (5) New Crown
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Big field and from the inside spot, (1) SARYEONI FIRST may prove hard to beat. He ran 2nd to Aspen Taeyang on debut before finishing 3rd behind Meni Wonderful and Icheon Arch at his second start on October 3rd. Both were over 1000M, and he made good ground late both times. The additional furlong can suit, and he’ll be favourite to salute at the third time of asking. (3) LONDON POWER enters off a good 4th place finish at class and distance on October 16th. She draws similarly well today and should be able to grab an early lead. She won’t necessarily be easy to go past. There is one first-time starter in the shape of (5) BE CRAZY. There are sure to be plenty of eyes on the three-year-old gelding as he is a half-brother to top line Seoul-based sprinter East Jet. He won a barrier trial in an unhurried fashion a month ago and has every chance of going well first-up. (10) SMART JEONSA and (6) DONGSEO YEOGEOL are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(1) Saryeoni First (3) London Power (5) Be Crazy (10) Smart Jeonsa
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

After an inauspicious debut, (10) DAEJI CHOICE has run well in three subsequent starts including a 3rd place in the Listed Areumdaun Jilju n Stakes for juveniles at his latest outing on October 3rd over 1200M when he emerged out of the pack late on, a long way behind the winner but well clear of 4th. The step up in trip may be to his benefit and he can win here. The big danger is (3) DAEHOMA. The three-year-old comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on October 17th when always on pace from the same gate he has drawn today and beating several of these in the process. He’ll be the one to aim at here and could go all the way. (8) HANSEN ICHEON races for the third time, having improved to run 3rd behind Daehoma at start number two. He was on pace that day and is likely to be challenging for the lead again here. (11) GIANT CAL and (1) GWANGDAESEUNGCHEON, who also went in that race, are others in the hunt.

Selections(10) Daeji Choice (3) Daehoma (8) Hansen Icheon (11) Giant Cal
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) JIGEUMYEOGIE did precisely nothing across twelve starts at sprint distances up until August. He was then given a couple of months off, trialed up well and then tried over 1700M for the first time, a distance at which he proceeded to make up excellent late ground and to run 2nd. The time was not quick but quick is one thing he will not need to be in this race and frankly, he is hard to oppose. (6) HANI ran 4th behind Jigeumyeogie at his latest start and that’s enough to bring him too into contention here while (3) TAEYANGTAGO also scored a career-best 4th on her first try at this distance a month ago and similarly can be looking to go at least one better today. As for the rest, (10) SOUTH BAN and (2) SAENAE HWANGJE perhaps have the best chance of competing for a place.

Selections(1) Jigeumyeogie (6) Hani (3) Taeyangtago (10) South Ban
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) PURE KING is the one to beat here. A good winner over 1200M at class 6 level two starts back, he then beat a couple of these on his way to a runner-up finish on his first try at both this class and distance on October 8th when he was on pace throughout. He only comes up marginally in the weights and draws well again and should have enough to see off this small field. (4) MONGTTANG comes up in class having registered his maiden win when coming from midfield to score over 1200M just two weeks ago. The additional trip can suit and under a light weight and a nice draw, he should measure up at this level. (6) RUN FIGHTER and (2) DOCTOR TEXAS came home in 5th and 4th respectively behind Pure King a month ago and both can be considered for at least places here. (7) SMARTY DOLPUNG comes up in class and in distance following a coast-to-coast score over 1300M in September. He has had nine weeks off since but can’t be left out of the calculations here.

Selections(3) Pure King (4) Mongttang (6) Run Fighter (2) Doctor Texas
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Quite a good race with boosted prize money as it is a race where either the sire or dam of a runner must have raced in Korea. (7) WONDERFUL K is a perfect one for one at this distance having come from a handy position to score emphatically on his first crack at it at class 6 level on October 10th. He’ll probably need to run a faster time to repeat today but he looks to have scope for improvement. (1) TYCHE FIRE is a winner at this class and distance and comes in having run 4th in each of his latest four outings. He comes in having beaten a few of these at this latest start over 1400M, running on strong from the back as is his style and he will probably start as favourite here. (9) MAKALU POWER comes up in trip having run on well in his latest outings over shorter. A nineteen-race maiden, he doesn’t seem a likely winner but could place. (6) RUFFIAN PARK and (3) GYEONGBU DORYEONG are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(7) Wonderful K (1) Tyche Fire (9) Makalu Power (6) Ruffian Park
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A good race but (8) WONDER BLADE should have the edge. He raced twice in October for 2nd and 4th places, both at this class, first at 1200M and then at 1400M. He does come up a full 4kg in the weights for that latest effort, but Perovic climbs back aboard, and he looks firmly in the hunt. (12) CLIFTON KING was a good winner on debut which led him to be sent off as favourite for the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes on October 3rd, a juvenile Listed race. That status was perhaps more to do with his stable rather than his actual prospects in that race, but he should have come on for the experience and can go much closer here. (2) NAMED races for the first time since getting her maiden win back in ay when she made all in a fast time at this distance. That in turn was nine-months after her debut as a juvenile so we know she can go well first up. She trialed up nicely a couple of weeks ago and gets a nice gate. (3) CROWN KING STAR comes up in class after a good win over the distance on October 15th. From a good gate he can sit handy and be competitive. (7) GLORY KING was well back behind Wonder blade on his first try at this class six weeks ago but has proven himself capable of running good times at this distance and is perhaps worth another chance here.

Selections(8) Wonder Blade (12) Clifton King (2) Named (3) Crown King Star
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Tricky race. (3) GOLD SPIKE is the narrow top pick having won at this distance in a fast time at class 6 level two starts back before running a good 4th on her first try at this class on October 10th. Her style is to sit back and run on and she has as good a claim as any here. (8) RAON THE TIGER had a poor day at the office at his latest start back on August 21st. He had a couple of months off after that and only came back into full work at the end of last month but going on prior form where he has run and won in fast times at this distance, he has to come into the calculations and is a probable front-runner. (2) MEOTJIN GUY enters with almost identical form to Gold Spike having won two starts back at class 6 level before finishing 4th on his first try at this class, both at today’s distance. He too tends to get back in his races before running on and is a chance here. (7) FLYING FULL MOON comes up in class following an all the way win over this distance four weeks ago and is another who should be on pace. (9) OLD SPECIAL has mixed form at this level but is another who has run a fast time at this distance and could challenge for minor money at least.

Selections(3) Gold Spike (8) Raon The Tiger (2) Meotjin Guy (7) Flying Full Moon
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Competitive race. We’ll take a chance on (5) COOL GUY, a colt who has never finished worse than 3rd in seven outings to date but who steps up in trip to a mile for the first time. Both his wins have come at 1200M, but he has posted decent times at 1400M and has finished off his races well. He comes in here off a nine-week layoff but trialed up last week in good order and can win. (1) MAGIC FLYING is the probable favourite. He may have only won two of his thirty-five starts so far but he has a further ten top three finishes to his name and enters after an excellent 2nd place behind Sky More over 1800M on October 17th. Tactically versatile, he draws well here and has every chance. (10) HAPPY WOMAN was a fast winner over 1400M at class 5 level on October 3rd and then three weeks later, stepped up to this class and distance and ran a super 3rd with a number of today’s rivals behind her. She carries next to no weight at all and despite the wider draw, has a winning chance again. Plenty of others are in at least the placing frame with (3) SEUNGNI TOUT and (6) CRONUS the most prominent.

Selections(5) Cool Guy (1) Magic Flying (10) Happy Woman (3) Seungni Tout
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5
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