The temperature will be several degrees below zero and dusk starting to fall on Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon when Moonhak Chief bids to become the first horse since Dongbanui Gangja more than a decade ago to record back-to-back victories in Korea’s historically most prestigious race, the Grand Prix Stakes (KOR G1-2300M).CLICK HERE FOR RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW OF ALL SEVENTEEN SUNDAY RACES AT SEOUL & BUSAN.
Moonhak Chief won the Grand Prix 2 years ago (Pic: KRA)
With no race last season, it’s now two years since Moonhak Chief followed up his 2019 Korea Cup victory by scoring by a length and a half that December. Only two of the rest of that day’s field return, Cheongdam Dokki and the retiring Dongbang Daero, but a host of new challengers have arisen in the meantime, meaning Moonhak Chief is going to need to be at his very best if he is to retain his crown.
Peter Wolsley won this race with Bold Kings in 2016 and the Australian trainer saddles Mr. Afleet this time, fresh off his triumph in the KRA Cup Classic back in October. That’s day’s close runner-up Haengbok Wangja is another leading contender and given the way he was finishing in the Classic, may even start as the favourite.
The President’s Cup, the top race restricted to Korean-bred horses, has provided two winners in recent years with Indie Band in 2013 and Gyeongbudaero in 2015 and the 2021 winner Simjangui Godong also takes his chance, as does proven Group winner Tiz Plan.
Touch Star Man, who won two legs of last year’s Triple Crown series, will be attendance, representing trainer Kim Young-kwan, who has won the race five times.
The Grand Prix Stakes is race 8 on Seoul’s 10-race Boxing Day card. Here is a full run down of all sixteen runners:
1. CHEONGDAM DOKKI (USA) [To Honor And Serve – Elusive Gold (Strike The Gold)] – His 4th attempt at the race with his best being 2nd in 2018. An excellent winner at 1800M in October before a flat performance in the KRA Cup Classic. He then ran 5th to Moonhak Chief back at 1800M on November 27th. Only returned to work last week and while there is no doubting his quality, this looks a very hard ask. Great draw though.
2. GALLOP CURLIN (USA) [Curlin – Colona (Pulpit)] – Gets his chance following a good win over 1800M at class 2 level earlier this month when midfield and running on. Tactically versatile and well-drawn but this is a big step up into the unknown in terms of distance and competition.
3. MOONHAK CHIEF (USA) [Pioneerof The Nile – Tallulah Lula (Old Trieste)] – Winner of the last edition of this race two years ago having won the Korea Cup that September. Seventh in the Cup Classic but returned to the winner’s circle on November 27th comfortably scoring over 1800M although he did get spooked by the finishing line light and stopped very quickly. At his best he is the one to beat.
4. CRAZY CONTI (USA) [Constitution – Ghostly Darkness (Ghostzapper)] – Came from well back to run a strong 3rd over 2000M at Busan two weeks ago in his first start since September. Beaten by Mr. Afleet and Touch Star Man in the summer so there is form for him to overturn here but he may appreciate the distance.
5. GEUMA ACME (KOR) [Hongji – Ms. Travelin (Lycius)] – A super 2nd in the President’s Cup to Simjangui Godong, coming from off the pace. Yet to win at higher than class 3 is a concern when stepping into this company, but the additional distance can suit. Alan Munro, who rode him in his last three starts, rides Jjang Kong instead.
6. HUNCH (USA) [To Honor And Serve – Sergeant O-Rourke (Forestry)] – Wasted a great draw by blowing the start in the Cup Classic, won by stablemate Mr. Afleet, in what was his first start since August. He has won at class 1 over 2000M in a fast time though and with a clean getaway can be competitive but may not be ready to beat the elite just yet. Minor money chance.
7. JJANG KONG (USA) [Tizway – Carietta (Stephen Got Even)] – Runner-up to Cheongdam Dokki in October before running a 3rd in the Cup Classic when handy all the way and battling on to the line. He likes it race close to the lead, so the draw works out well. He’s stubborn enough to get the 2300M and it would be no surprise seeing him in the minor money.
8. HAENGBOK WANGJA (USA) [Daredevil – First Installment (Broken Vow)] – up and comer having just been promoted to class 1 before running a great race in the KRA Cup Classic when on the pace and wide most of the way and momentarily leading at the 200m and coming again at Mr. Afleet the finish. It was a super effort, and plenty will back him to win here.
The final racing day of 2021 is on Boxing Day and it features the traditional season ending Grand Prix Stakes. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40. Here are the previews:
Any excuse to post a picture of Triple Nine – The Grand Prix winner in 2018
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Twelve previously unraced juvenile fillies open the Boxing Day card. She’s drawn wide but we’ll go with (12) CONCORD QUEEN, who did at least record the fastest time among any of these in her trial. The track was wet and fast but that was true for most of these in their respective heats. She said just off the pace and ran through the line well and has strong claims first-up. The only trial winner is (6) SIRIUS ALPHA, which might be enough to make her favourite. She led all the way in her trial in a fair time and from a good draw is likely to be leading again. (4) DOLBAE posted a decent time in her trial and from a good gate and with a top jockey booking is set to be backed. (3) K N OLD QUEEN and (8) LAST PUNCH are others in the hunt.
Selections
(12) Concord Queen (6) Sirius Alpha (4) Dolbae (3) K N Old Queen
Next Best
8, 9
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 7
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens with eight of the fourteen racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on one of those first-timers as (2) USURP ran a strong 2nd in his trial on a fast time, running through the line well. Starting out at 1200M may suit and he gets a great draw. (6) OCEAN STORM won a trial before debuting on November 19th, when she ran on on-pace 2nd over 1000M. She should have come on for the experience and will be expected to be close here. (9) SKY JEJUHYANG also won a trial before performing adequately on debut when she ran 3rd at 1000M sitting handy throughout and is another who may well have come on. Other debut-makers (8) GRAND SUN and (14) JOSEPHINE QUEEN also won their trials and can enter the calculations. Watch the market for any clues.
Selections
(2) Usurp (6) Ocean Storm (9) Sky Jejuhyang (8) Grand Sun
Next Best
14, 1
Fast Start
1, 2, 6, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(6) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE has raced twice, improving in the latter to a strong 2nd over 1000M on November 27th. She steps up in trip for the first time but there is nothing to indicate it won’t suit and from a probable on pace or handy position, she can win. (4) TAEYANGMA had a hard time from a wide gate when sent off as favourite over this distance on November 28th, ultimately finishing 6th. From a much better draw today, he must be given another chance. (2) BURUI KKOT ran 4th behind Neoreul Eongwonhae at start number two on November 27th, running on well from a wide draw. The gate is much better today, and she comes down another 2kg to just 50kg which should put her in the finish. (8) WONDERFUL KITTY and (12) MAGIC RUSH are others with at least placing chances in an open race.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
It’s time that (9) CATCH THE SKY got his maiden win and bade farewell to the lowest level of racing. He comes in following a 2nd and a 4th at this distance, registering the fastest time among these for the mile along the way. He goes back and runs on and he can win here. (3) YEONSEUNG BRAVO beat three of these on his way to 2nd place over this distance on December 5th when sitting handy throughout. The same apprentice rider keeps the weight down again and from a nice draw he can be close at hand again. (1) RAON THE MILLION was 4th in that race having led until the home straight. He draws the inside here and should be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (4) BARBELL STORM and (13) CARIBBEAN DAY are others in the frame for places.
Selections
(9) Catch The Sky (3) Yeonseung Bravo (1) Raon The Million (4) Barbell Storm
Next Best
13, 8
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(4) HEUNGHAENG DAEBAK came close to winning on debut on December 4th when leading almost the entire way around over this distance only to be denied late on by Wonderful Sam. The time was good, albeit on a wet track, and from an ideal gate he should lead again and have too much for this ordinary looking field. (12) BIG ENERGY took a few starts to figure out what he was meant to be doing but his recent form reads quite well. With three 4th place finishes and a 2nd. Alan Munro climbs aboard today which catches the eye and further improvement is possible. (14) BYEORAK also seems to be getting there with a 4th place when stepped up to 1200M last start. The extra half furlong may help him get closer again. He has a bad draw, though, unlike (2) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM, who has a runner-up finish and a pair of 5ths from three starts so far. He may be ridden a bit closer a bit earlier this time around and can be in the finish. (8) SUNNY BLADE another in the hunt.
Selections
(4) Heunghaeng Daebak (12) Big Energy (14) Byeorak (2) All For Your Dream
Next Best
8, 3
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 7
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Very tricky race with plenty of credible contenders. If it wasn’t for the draw, (14) LANE KILLER might be a more confident top pick. He was a good winner at class 6 level over a mile and has run 2nd and 5th in two goes at this class and distance. He was ridden quite hard to get and early lead last time but given the extreme wideness this time he may just be dropped in, and it may end up paying dividends. (4) HONEY STAR has no problems with the draw, He steps back up in trip after a decent 4th over a mile at his latest start and has had the beating of a few of these in his last two outings. He is versatile but likely to be on or close to the pace here and has solid claims. So too (1) GOLDEN KAISER, who has been knocking at the door in his recent efforts and should get a good run from the inside gate. (11) GEUMA GOOD POINT ran 3rd to Lane Killer’s 2nd on November 19th having led for much of the race. Expect to see him up front early again. (8) THE FIRST FACTOR possibly the best of a competitive rest.
Selections
(14) Lane Killer (4) Honey Star (1) Golden Kaiser (11) Geuma Good Point
Next Best
8, 2
Fast Start
1, 4, 8, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A big and very competitive field. We’ll go with (7) WINNER IS WELL, who returned from six months out to run a strong 3rd at class and distance. He draws marginally better today and may well have come on for that run and has as good a chance as any. (5) CHALLAN HANNAL had a hard time when tried at 1700M at his latest start but should be much happier back at a distance at which he has the fastest time among those here who have tried it. (2) YEONGWANGUI CAPTAIN ran a good 4th on his first try at this distance on October 23rd. He came from midfield that day but should be on pace here and can go close. (3) RAON THE TEUKGEUP comes up in class and in distance having scored over 1200M in November. He ran on strongly and can measure up here. (14) WORLD RACER is a perfect one for one and while he comes up in class and distance and draws the widest gate, all of those can be overcome. He swept home like an express train in that debut win at 1200M and shouldn’t be ruled out here.
Selections
(7) Winner Is Well (5) Challan Hannal (2) Yeongwangui Captain (3) Raon The Teukgeup
Next Best
14, 10
Fast Start
2, 7, 8, 12
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Another tricky race. (11) I WILL BE FREE struck at start number two on November 21st having run 2nd on his debut. Both were at 1000M but the way he ran suggests the slight increase today won’t be an issue and he has every chance of making it two in a row. Having won an October trial, (12) CAPTAIN YANKEE debuted over this distance on November 11th, making all to win very easily. He comes up in class today and the draw isn’t ideal as he will want to lead again, but he will be vying for favourite status. (2) GEUMBIT SKY, on the other hand, draws very nicely. He too was a front-running winner over this distance at class 6 level at his latest start, when he was returning from five months off and looking significantly better. He should be in the finish again here. Similarly (13) SHY DRAGON, another all the way winner at class 6 level last time, although in her case over 1000M, can measure up in this company too. If you prefer experience at this level already then (8) ECHO MOON might be one to consider.
Selections
(11) I Will Be Free (12) Captain Yankee (2) Geumbit Sky (13) Shy Dragon
Next Best
8, 6
Fast Start
2, 11, 12, 13
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Four of these raced each other at class and distance on December 4th. (4) JOEUN GWANGYE was sent off as favourite that day, off the back of a fast 4th over 1400M the start before. He only managed to come 3rd in the end having gone back and run on but is probably worth another chance in similarly weak company today. That day’s winner was (3) RUFFIAN PARK. He was securing his maiden triumph at start number eighteen and sat handy throughout before finishing off well. He comes up 2kg in the weights but has claims again. (11) MAGIC JOY was a good winner on his first try at this distance at class 6 level in November. This isn’t the toughest of races to try class 5 for the first time and he should be competitive. (6) RUN RUN RUN is yet to win but has been consistent and has placed at both his last two starts, both at this distance. He came from a long way back to be a close 3rd at his latest outing and can be dangerous here. (2) JIGEUMYEOGIE, from a nice draw, is another in the frame.
Selections
(4) Joeun Gwangye (3) Ruffian Park (11) Magic Joy (6) Run Run Run
Next Best
2, 10
Fast Start
1, 4, 9, 11
Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Fillies (and one mare) here. (2) SEUNGNI MAGICQUEEN races for the first time since running 6th in the Luna Stakes, the first leg of the filly Triple Crown back in October, when she was the first Busan-based runner to cross the line. Prior to that she registered back-to-back wins up to 1300M at class 5 level. Form a good draw she should be close to the pace here and should be returning to winning ways. (11) ADELE ROSARIO comes up in class after a smart all the way win over 1200M on November 21st. Prior to that she was considered good enough to be given her chance in the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup and while that didn’t work out, she evidently has talent. While she is the only juvenile in the race, she should have the beating of plenty. (3) FLAT BABE was a winner at this class over 1400M two starts back and while she could only manage 6th over a mile at her latest start, she warrants another chance here. (14) MISS INDIE and (5) SONHADOR among several others with strong claims.
The delayed racing season along with Christmas falling on a weekend means we get a rare Christmas Day card at Seoul, a day ahead of Boxing Day’s Grand Prix Stakes. There are 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. And should you wish to spend the day on the punt, all betting locations will be open although attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
The Christmas Day card kicks off with a field of twelve previously unraced two-year-olds so it’s to the trial videos that we head. The only one to win her heat was (6) MENI SPEAR and that’s enough for us to find in her favour here. She made all in the trial crossing the line two-lengths ahead of anything else and won’t need to improve too much to go very close here. The other logical pick is (5) NAOL YEONGUNG. He finished in 3rd place in his heat having been on pace throughout, but his time was the fastest that any of these recorded and from a good gate he has every chance. (12) GLOBAL BOBAE came home 2nd in Meni Spear’s time, running on well from midfield and despite the wide draw should be competitive here. (3) FNAL CHARM and (8) CONCORDE SPIRIT others who caught the eye in their heats.
Selections
(6) Meni Spear (5) Naol Yeongung (12) Global Bobae (3) Final Charm
Next Best
8, 7
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 6
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
More juvenile maidens but this time only three make their racecourse debuts although none have tackled 1200M before. (7) P N S GOLD won a trial and then ran 2nd on debut on November 20th when he sat handy to the lead and then ran on well. The extra furlong can suit, and he won’t need to improve much to be winning this. (6) GEONGONILCHEOK and (5) CUPID VOW debuted together over 1000M on November 27th when both were close to the pace and ended up coming home in 4th and 5th place respectively. The should both be prominent here and can be competing to get even closer today. (4) JANGSAN POISON was close at hand 4th place on debut 1000M doing his best work late on and may like the step up in trip here. Among the first timers, (14) MUSTANG POWER crossed the line 1st in his trial and warrants consideration first up.
Selections
(7) P N S Gold (6) Geongonilcheok (5) Cupid Vow (4) Jangsan Poison
Next Best
14, 10
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 7
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Filly maidens here. (2) MAGIC FLOWER has run well in both starts so far, improving to 3rd place at her latest. Both were over 1000M, but the additional furlong should be fine, and she has claims here. (3) SWEET CAMP was a slightly disappointing 6th at her latest start when well backed but she has a 2nd and a 3rd to her name at this distance already and should go close again. (8) RAON THE DASH is another trying the distance for the first time after three solid efforts over 1000M and can be competitive. A litany of excuses were offered for (4) PUREUN YOJEONG’s dismal effort at 1300M two weeks ago, from the kickback to possibly not liking the gear she was wearing. She threw her head up at the start and then got bumped which set the tone for the race. We’ll draw a line through it and give her another chance as she has shown ability. (12) LUCKY INDY may need a touch of luck early to get a forward position, but she has shown some speed and should be in the mix.
It’s Grand Prix weekend at last with the big season-ending race taking place at Seoul on Sunday. Before that though Busan kicks things off on Friday with a 7-race Christmas Eve card from 12:40 to 18:00. All betting locations remain open although the off-track centres are restricted to 80% capacity. Attendance at all racecourses and off-track locations must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens with eleven of the twelve racing for the first time. We therefore head to the trial videos and find that (1) SANGSEUNG BOY led all the way in his heat to cross the line in front by a wide margin n a decent time. He draws beautifully on the inside and if h gets off to a good start again, he will take some beating. The one horse with prior race experience is (12) EUNSEONG WINNER. She ran well on debut, overcoming gate ten to sit just off the pace and then ran on well enough for 3rd place. She should have come on for the experience and while the gate may not help again, she should go close. Back to the first timers and (7) BINGO MAN won his heat leading all the way, crossing the line thirteen lengths in front of anything else. The time was pedestrian but there looks to be potential. (9) MAIN BRIDGE and (10) PHANTOM ACE are others who performed well in their trials and should be close first-up.
Selections
(1) Sangseung Boy (12) Eunseong Winner (7) Bingo Man (9) Main Bridge
Next Best
10, 11
Fast Start
1, 7, 10, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Maiden fillies and plenty of potential winners. We’ll take a chance with (4) CHEONGMA POWER, who has mixed her form but is better than her latest effort suggests when slowly away and never a factor. She does have two placings at this distance to her name in fair times and from a good draw and a better getaway, has as much chance as any. (13) FUNNY LIFE gets a bad draw, but she is yet to finish worse than 4th in three starts and seems to be working towards a win. She comes in having run 2nd over 1000M at her latest start when on pace throughout. She comes up in trip for the first time but has every chance. (10) RAON THE FLASH led on her first try at this distance at start number three, weakening in the closing stages to run 6th. The experience should benefit, and she can go closer this time. There are a couple of debut-makers. (1) ALPHA V was on pace in her trial a couple of weeks ago and from the inside gate can make an impact here. (5) DROMOS among a number of others with at least placing claims.
Selections
(4) Cheongma Power (13) Funny Life (10) Raon The Flash (1) Alpha V
Next Best
5, 9
Fast Start
1, 3, 9, 13
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Decent race for the level but we’re likely to have a standout favourite. (10) GEUMA STARLET returned from six months out to run a strong 2nd over 1200M on December 5th, coming from well off the pace. He should strip fitter for that run and the additional distance can suit. He looks hard to beat. (8) BLUE CAPTAIN showed improvement at his latest start to run 3rd over 1200M. He can get on pace here and so long as he sees out the trip can be competitive. (7) DOCTOR CANDY does have experience at this distance, having run 2nd at it, her best performance to date, in an admittedly slow race on December 3rd. She sat just off the pace that day and battled on and from a slightly better draw should be in the finish again. (4) NEW CROWN ran 4th in that 1200M race behind Geuma Starlet at his latest outing when he too came from a long way back. He has run fairly at this distance before and along with (13) RUN AND GUN is another with claims on a money finish.
Selections
(10) Geuma Starlet (8) Blue Captain (7) Doctor Candy (4) New Crown
Next Best
13, 6
Fast Start
5, 8, 9, 10
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
There is a race of reference here at class and distance on November 26th. (2) FANTASTIC LEADER could only manage 6th that day, beaten by a couple of todays rivals, but the margins were tight. Two starts back he ran a very strong 2nd, again at this distance, and while he is yet to win, today could be his day. (5) INDIAN PARTY started slowly in that race but rallied well to come home in 4th place. That continued a consistent run of form for him and from a much better gate today, he too can have winning claims. (11) K CHUKJE came home the best of those who ran in that November race, finishing in 3rd place at lengthy odds. He’ll warrant more respect here although the other two draw better this time. If you don’t like the form from that race, then (6) LIGHT STORY can be the one to go for. She was very impressive when winning on debut and while she faltered on her next appearance at this distance, she ran better third-up over 1200M on November 28th. She will be on or close to the pace here and can be in the finish. (12) JEONSEOLUI PUNCH another in the frame.
Selections
(2) Fantastic Leader (5) Indian Party (11) K Chukje (6) Light Story
Next Best
12, 7
Fast Start
2, 6, 8, 12
Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(6) DOCTOR CAESAR won his first two races in good order before running 3rd in the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup, a race which he led for much of the way around. He followed it up with a runner-up finish at this class and distance on November 26th. He draws well here to get to the lead again and he should have too much. (2) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI has won three from five in total including his latest at the end of October wen he led all the way over this distance. He is up in class here but comes down slightly in the weights and draws well. He surely measures up in this company. It’s a similar story with (1) GLORY KING who was also an all the way winner over 1200M at class 5 level on his latest outing. He too comes up in class and marginally down in the weights and he will be making it a testing time at the front in the early stages here. (4) JESSIEUI KKUM raced just the once all the way back in the summer of 2020. He looked well when trialing earlier this month and could make a bid for the places at each-way odds. (8) WINNER’S TIME another in the hunt.
Selections
(6) Doctor Caesar (2) Busanhang Galmaegi (1) Glory King (4) Jessieui Kkum
Next Best
8, 5
Fast Start
1, 6, 12, 14
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Tricky race with three standouts. (1) ECOPIA is probably the justifiable favourite having won two of her last three with the defeat being in the Luna Stakes at a mile when drawn very wide. She’ll get an easier time of it here from the inside and she looks the one to beat. (5) SEUNGNI TOUT was a winner at this class over 1800M on December 10th. He has run fast times over a mile too and rarely runs a bad race with twelve top-five finishes from fourteen starts to date. He is up in the weights as a result of that win but should be in the finish. It took (9) DOCTOR FAITH ten attempts to get his maiden score, but he enters looking for a hat-trick of wins. His latest was at class and distance on November 28th when he sat handy from the same gate he draws today. He too is up in weight but is firmly in the frame. (7) CHEONGDAM FIRE and (10) PURE KING have placing chances.
Selections
(1) Ecopia (5) Seungni Tout (9) Doctor Faith (7) Cheongdam Fire
Next Best
10, 4
Fast Start
1, 5, 8, 9
Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(7) MAN OF TOP has been a model of consistency but has only recently started to win. He beat several of these on his way to victory at class and distance on November 26th when despite drawing wide, he was able to find a position and then ran on to win well. He comes in the weights but gets a better gate and will be favourite to win again. (6) CHANGE BACK won at this distance at class 4 level and has two runner-up finished from three attempts at this class. He usually settles midfield or further back and runs on and he should be coming on strong at the end again today. (9) YEONGGWANGUI FIGHT ran 2nd to Man Of Top in that November 26th race. He gets a bog weight advantage again today and can go close. (8) SEONGSAN POWER and (2) QUATTRO MAX are others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(7) Man Of Top (6) Change Back (9) Yeonggwangui Fight (8) Seongsan Power
Last Sunday Heat Yegam confirmed his position as Champion three-year-old colt with victory in the Minister’s Cup. This week it’s the turn of the fillies to finish up their Triple Crown. It will be one of Luna Stakes winner Raon Pink or Oaks winner Choegang Black, both of whom return to face each other again in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup over 2000M. One race earlier, the older fillies and mares get to run for a big prize in the Jeju Governor’s Cup with Raon First set to be a hot favourite. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 7 races from 11:10 to 16:40. All betting locations are open however attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:
The finish to the Korean Oaks. Choegang Black, Raon Pink and Serve Ace return to Seoul for the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens in the opener with all but one racing for the very first time. And among those first-timers there was a stand-out trial performance from (8) JAY PHOENIX. From the widest gate he cruised to the lead and continued that cruise to cross the line a full two-seconds faster than the next home. If he brings that form to the races, he wins. The sole entrant with previous experience came close on debut. After winning a trial (10) BLACK MASK was sent off hot favourite on October 16th but ultimately came home in 2nd place. Nevertheless, it was a quick time, and he comes in after nine weeks off, ready to be in the mix again. Back to the trial videos for the rest and (2) NERWOOLI won his heat in good fashion while there were also encouraging performances from (7) BURUI SINHWA and (11) HAPPY MIX.
Selections
(8) Jay Phoenix (10) Black Mask (2) Nerwooli (7) Burui Sinhwa
Next Best
11, 12
Fast Start
1, 2, 8, 10
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens and (9) ILNYEOM CHEONHA will be favourite. Having run well in a trial, he was 2nd on debut on November 21st at this distance, overcoming a slightly sluggish start to run on well. It was a fair time and faster than any of the others recorded on their respective debuts and he is the one to beat. (7) RAON THE FIGHTING also ran 3rd on debut on November 19th. He sat behind the pace and ran on pleasingly enough and should have come on for the run. There are three first time starters and the one which will attract the most interest is (5) GEUMA UNO. He was an on-pace 2nd in his heat in a fair time and the Kim Young-kwan/You Hyun-myung connection will ensure he is well backed first-up. (6) ALL CROWN and (10) PLAY THE INDY both hinted on debut that they have some potential and can also be in the mix for minor money.
Selections
(9) Ilnyeom Cheonha (7) Raon The Fighting (5) Geuma Uno (6) All Crown
Next Best
10, 3
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 7
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Filly maidens only here and it could be a chance for (6) DELPHINI to get her first win. She returned from six months out to run a pleasing 3rd over this distance in a similar race on November 21st, running on as is her style. From a nice central draw and with Munro aboard, there isn’t too much to fear here. Vying with her for favourite status will be (8) GALSAEK HYANGGI. She’s shown improvement over three outings to date, culminating in 3rd place on her first try over today’s trip on November 20th when she went back and ran on strong. She’ll be in the finish again. (1) FLEX QUEEN recorded her best finish to date at her latest start when 2nd over this distance. She led that day and from the same inside gate today will surely aim to do the same. (7) EAST MAGIC and (5) WONDERFUL NIKIYA are among a few others with at least placing chances.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Tricky race. (5) DAEHO NURI has finished no better than 5th in four attempts so far but he has run the kind of times that ought to be competitive here. From a good draw, he can sit handy and run on and this could be his day. (8) ALIVE STAR returns to action for the first time since May. He is the only previous winner in the field and while being first-up in thirty-two weeks is obviously going to pose some questions, he looked well enough when running 3rd in a late November trial. If he is at his best, he can win this. (3) ARTIE’S GAL races for the first time in even longer. His best result was a 3rd place on debut at this distance in a slow race more than a year ago, but he won a trial in November leading all the way, has a good draw and a featherweight to carry. (14) GREEN SPEED has already finished as runner-up at this distance. She led for much of that race so may need a touch of luck early from the widest gate, but she can be considered. (2) DOCTOR TANGO another placing chance.
Selections
(5) Daeho Nuri (8) Alive Star (3) Artie’s Gal (14) Green Speed
Next Best
2, 6
Fast Start
2, 3, 12, 14
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(5) SAENAE HWANGJE showed improvement when stepped up to two-turns for the first time on November 14th, settling handy and running on for 2nd place. The time wasn’t fast, but he won’t need to go much faster to win this. (7) VIVA CHAMPION comes up to this trip for the first time after a couple of creditable performances at shorter. He has run on well in his latest two and if he does the same today will run into some money. (10) RUNNING NUMBER ONE overcame a wide draw to finish 3rd in a plodding affair at this distance on November 27th. That’s two places in his last three starts, both coming at this distance, and he should be in the finish again. (3) SEMYEONG CAPTAIN was 5th behind Running Number One at his latest outing and can aim to match or better today. (1) ONE PUTT always three-putts the start but usually runs on and should pass plenty in a race where a double-bogey will be enough to get on the leaderboard.
Selections
(5) Saenae Hwangje (7) Viva Champion (10) Running Number One (3) Semyeong Captain
Next Best
1, 2
Fast Start
2, 5, 6, 8
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(3) ADELE BOSS steps up in trip following a 3rd and a 5th in his latest two at 1000M and 1200M respectively. The latter time he had to deal with gate fourteen and wasn’t able to find a decent position whereas today, from a much better draw he can use his good start to get away well. He has claims. So too does (9) ONE RUSH, who has raced just twice but has a 5th and a 3rd with the latter being at this distance in a good time. She sat midfield and ran on that day and while she still draws wide, in the smaller field, should be able to find a position early and run on again. (1) DAEJI SPECIAL ran into 3rd place at 1000M at his latest start. Although a previous try at 1200M didn’t go especially well, from a nice draw he can be considered for improvement here. (6) YEONSEUNG GLORY improved to 2nd at his most recent start over this distance and along with (5) MONEY BAG, warrants consideration for a place.
Selections
(3) Adele Boss (9) One Rush (1) Daeji Special (6) Yeonseung Glory
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations will be open but attendance must be booked in advance using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens open proceedings and ten of the twelve race here for the very first time. However, the two with experience both offered some promise on their debuts. We’ll tentatively side with (10) MABAWI, who having trialed well ran a close at hand 3rd on debut on November 11th, settling midfield and running on. He doesn’t draw well but (9) TOUCH NINE gets only a marginally better gate. He also ran 3rd on debut on November 27th and in a faster time than Mabawi, albeit further beaten in a faster race. He should have come on for that and can get closer today. Among the debut makers, (3) BAEKDU GIRL was the fastest in trials. She draws nicely to be on pace here and has solid claims. (8) CLAIR POINT won her heat in a fair time and is another who should be on pace. (2) RIVER TAEYANG another of several first-timers who have every chance first up.
Selections
(10) Mabawi (9) Touch Nine (3) Baekdu Girl (8) Clair Point
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
2, 3, 5, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Big field of juvenile filly maidens with (4) BESTYA the one to beat. She has raced twice so far finishing 3rd on both occasions having come right from the back of the field at 1000M and 1200M. So long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, she can win this. The only other one in the field to have tried this distance already is (1) WONPYEONG QUEEN. She too ran on from the back of the field on debut on November 21st and while she could only make it up to 7th, it was promising enough to suggest that from the inside gate today, she can get much closer. (13) HUIMANG GADEUK ran 4th on debut in a fast time at 1000M and should have come on for that run. If she can overcome the wide draw, she should be right in this. So too (12) QUEEN OF RACING, who has a pair of 5th place finishes from two starts and can build on those here. (7) BIG BIT, a not too far away 5th on debut at 1000M, is another in the hunt.
Selections
(4) Bestya (1) Wonpyeong Queen (13) Huimang Gadeuk (12) Queen Of Racing
Next Best
7, 9
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 13
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(2) AMAZON KING has made steady progress across three starts so far with a 2nd place over 1000M two starts back followed up by a good 4th at this distance on November 6th. He has the fastest start among these and from gate two should be on pace and can lead all the way. (11) SILVER STAR ran on well from an unpromising position in an all-filly race on November 21st. She has been getting a bit far back in her races but should beat plenty here. (3) WARRIOR THUNDER has mixed his form across eight appearances so far but comes in off a fine runner-up finish over 1300M when on pace throughout. A repeat of that run would put him in the finish again. (8) JILJUE BADA and (14) SANGSEUNG HAENGJIN among others with placing chances.
Selections
(2) Amazon King (11) Silver Star (3) Warrior Thunder (8) Jiljue Bada
Next Best
14, 13
Fast Start
2, 3, 12, 13
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(5) CHEONJI JIDAE is set to be favourite here. He’s raced three times so far and has done well on each occasion including runner-up at his latest outing on November 14th when he sat behind the pace and ran on strong. He steps up to this distance for the first time and may take some beating. (8) SEUNGSEUNG POWER was sent off as favourite for his scheduled most recent outing on November 6th but blundered on exiting the gates and dislodged his rider, proceeding to complete the 1400M on his own. He has two good 3rd place finishes to his name and should be in the mix here. (13) SMART POWER went in that same race and was able to keep his human assistant aboard to finish a good 5th from an even wider gate than he draws today. He is one of only two in the race to have a win to his name and should be competitive. (11) HALLAUI WONSEOK is the solitary debut-maker and having been through three trials at various stages, could be primed to go here. (2) GEUREUMTAGO comes back in trip and can be competitive from a good draw.
Selections
(5) Cheonji Jidae (8) Seungseung Power (13) Smart Power (11) Hallaui Wonseok
Next Best
2, 7
Fast Start
2, 5, 7, 13
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(2) CHAMJOEUN CHINGU comes up in class having made all for a facile win over 1200M on November 14th. She had been working up towards that and the increase in trip should be no problem here either. She draws well and will be hard to beat. (4) M J BEST’s challenge faltered a little over 1400M at his last start, but he drops back in trip slightly today and has previously registered fast times and good results at this distance. He’ll come from off the pace and can be a danger here. (5) YUKWAEHAN SEONTAEK remains a maiden but is yet to finish worse than 3rd in four starts, hence being up at this level. He showed he measures up in this class with 3rd place over 1200M at the end of October and there is no reason why the additional half furlong can’t suit here. (12) GRAY CAT and (7) GOLD SPIKE among several others who could place.
Selections
(2) Chamjoeun Chingu (4) M J Best (5) Yukwaehan Seontaek (12) Gray Cat
Next Best
7, 10
Fast Start
2, 5, 8, 10
Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Very competitive race for the level. (2) MENI GOLD had a slightly disappointing day at the office when sent off as the odds-on favourite at class and distance on November 7th, not getting the best of trips and ultimately finishing 5th. She looks to have potential though and is worth another chance here. He needs to overturn the form from that day on (3) PRINCESS SOCKS, who ran 2nd in that race having inconvenienced Meni Gold in the early part of the race and then led for much of the way. She too looks to have a win in her at this level and from adjoining gates, the pair will be vying for the lead from the start. (8) PINE FARM was a fine winner on debut at 1000M on November 7th. She comes up in class and in trip today but should be competitive. (9) SOEWAKKOT and (13) BEST CHEONSANG among others who can go well in a race of many chances.
Selections
(2) Meni Gold (3) Princess Socks (8) Pine Farm (9) Soewakkot
It’s the penultimate weekend of the season and the weekend’s focus will be on the filly and mare division with both the final leg of the filly Triple Crown and also the Jeju Governor’s Cup for older fillies and mares taking place at Seoul on Sunday. The weekend’s racing kicks off in Busan on Friday with 7 races from 12:40 to 18:00. Despite new restrictions having been imposed, currently all betting locations are set to be open (this is subject to change if the government decides so) but advance reservation through the MyCard app is required. Here are Friday’s previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
They’ve managed to find twelve previously unraced juvenile fillies to kick us off, which is quite a feat for the penultimate week of the season. Unsurprisingly none set the world alight in trials, but a couple put in decent showings. (7) DAEJI PERFECT was fastest, leading for much of her heat and ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place without being asked for too much effort. It was her second trial and she showed great improvement from the first and if she continues that trajectory can win here. She will vie for favourite status with (1) GASOK DAY. She also showed prominently in her trial finishing 2nd in a slower time than Daeji Perfect but on a drier and slower running track. The jockey booking will ensure she is well-backed. (12) BEAUTY BROWN led her trial and while she needs to overcome the widest draw, she may be considered here. (8) RED COLOR and (2) SPECIAL FACT are others who hinted at ability in their heats and may go well first up.
Selections
(7) Daeji Perfect (1) Gasok Day (12) Beauty Brown (8) Red Color
Next Best
2, 10
Fast Start
1, 2, 7, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Having made progress across four starts so far, culminating in 2nd place last time out over 1200M on November 14th, (1) ADELE CHUKBAE is the one to beat here. He was only beaten last time by Wonderful Fager, who came out and won again two weeks later and from the inside gate, should be on pace and be hard to run down. (11) USEUNG HUNTER looks the clear second choice. He too has shown improvement over four outings and was 2nd last time overcoming an indifferent start to run on well. He too steps up to this distance for the first time and while the wide draw is not ideal, he has claims. Draw a line through the latest effort by (5) GIANT CAL when drawn very wide over 1400M. He has a 2nd place to his name at today’s trip and should be competitive here. (9) CHEONMA BRAVO and (4) BAEDARI ICON are others with placing claims.
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
A small field tackle the mile, but plenty have chances. We’ll take a chance on (8) CHEONGHO LEADER, who is one of the few who steps up to this trip for the first time. He has been consistent at 1400M, running on well in his races and the additional furlong may well suit. (5) DAMYANG DOLPUNG has plenty of experience at the distance and comes in with his latest couple of outings being positive. His times haven’t been special, but they won’t need to be in order to be in the mix here. (2) YEONGCHEON SOLEMIO is an interesting one as his three starts so far have all been at 1000M. He has been well backed in all three of those but hasn’t managed to finish better than 4th. It may be that the extra distance today is what he needs. (1) GEUMUI MAN steps up in trip after a decent 3rd place at 1200M last start and is another with placing claims while (3) URI JOEUNNAL is another who can be there or thereabouts.
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies (and one mare) only here. (7) ILBEONJI fully justified her odds-on status with a facile gate to wire win on debut over 1000M on October 24th. She comes up in class and in trip here but can lead again and can have too much again. Also up in class is (11) H. DAY, who got her maiden win at start number two on October 10th, settling handy and then running on strong in a fast time. She too should be able to handle the additional distance and can measure up in this company. (1) SUNSET MELODY was a winner on debut back in September and has proven competitive in two subsequent efforts at this class and distance, finishing in 3rd place on her latest outing two weeks ago. She draws nicely here and should be in the hunt. (13) GOLDEN POWER comes up in class after a win at this distance on November 26th. She may need some luck in the run from the wide gate but warrants respect here. (8) HALLA NURI another in the placing frame.
Selections
(7) Ilbeonji (11) H. Day (1) Sunset Melody (13) Golden Power
Next Best
8, 2
Fast Start
5, 7, 11, 12
Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(8) CHEONNYEONUI QUEEN beat three of these on her way to 2nd place at class and distance on November 21st, continuing a run of good form and she has every chance in this competitive handicap where she can sit midfield and run on from off the pace. (2) FLASHY CHARM comes up in class and in distance after a good win over 1200M on November 28th. His running style has been to sit behind the pace and run on, suggesting the increased trip should be no problem and he has the potential to ultimately go higher than this class. (4) CHEONNYEONUIYAKSO mixes his form but has the fastest time among any of these at this distance. He draws much better than in his latest two outings and should be in the mix here. (14) CRONUS and (9) MUJEOK CHARLIE among others with placing hopes.
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
A good race and it is stablemates who were both also-rans in the Korean Derby on November 7th who top the contenders. (4) WORLD CHANGE is set to be favourite. He runs for the first time since the Derby when he was well back, but his prior form was good including a super win over a mile. He also beat (7) KING GOLIATH when they met at a mile in September. King Goliath himself has raced since the Derby, finishing 2nd at class and distance just a couple of weeks ago when he ran on well but couldn’t quite get to a good winner. He should be going very close again. (1) YEONGWON POWER beat King Goliath when the pair ran 1st and 2nd over this distance at class 5 level back in October. He comes in after a good class and distance 2nd at the end of November and under a light weight and from a good gate should be very competitive again. (10) COOL GUY and (8) WHITE GALLOPER among other chances in a competitive race.
Selections
(4) World Change (7) King Goliath (1) Yeongwon Power (10) Cool Guy
Next Best
8, 6
Fast Start
4, 6, 9, 10
Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
It didn’t happen for (6) SUCCESS MACHO in the Owners’ Cup on November 21st, a race in which the previously unbeaten three-year-old was sent of as favourite but turned out to be a bit much too soon. Plenty of others had off-days in that race too and given the level of performance he had put in over five winning starts before that, he has to be given another chance here. Like Success Machi, (9) ONNURI JILJU found the elite level a bit hard at this stage of his career, finishing down the field in the Cup Mile and Derby in his latest two starts. Returning to shallower waters today, he should be a much more dangerous prospect. Continuing the pattern of drawing lines through latest starts, (3) ALPHA STAR was on pace early but weakened over 1800M at his latest three weeks ago and should appreciate the drop ack to a mile today. (2) SMART MOD and (11) TOP FIRE among others in the hunt.
Selections
(6) Success Macho (9) Onnuri Jilju (3) Alpha Star (2) Smart Mod
The 2021 Triple Crown reaches its long-delayed conclusion on Sunday at Seoul Racecourse as KRA Cup Mile winner Heat Yegam and Korean Derby champion Winner’s Man face off in the “Minister’s” Cup. The big race has only attracted eight runners but should be a fascinating affair nonetheless and is race 8 on the 10-race card at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There are also 7 races at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40. All betting locations within Korea are open but attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:
Winner’s Man beat Heat Yegam in the Derby (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile filly maidens here with two of the twelve racing for the first time. The one to beat is set to be (4) RAON THE ARIA, who has raced twice for 4th and 2nd, both at 1000M and both in fast times, coming from just off the pace. She can go one better today. The main danger is one of the two debut-makers. (1) SAENAE FOREST went through two trials and vastly improved in the second of them, sitting just behind the leader throughout and then running on to cross the lone in front on a fast time on an admittedly wet track. From the inside gate she can sit handy or lead here and if she brings that form to the races, should go well. (5) COSMO won a September trial before running a solid 5th on debut in a fast time at this distance, settling back and running on. He should have come on for that and can be competitive again. (7) DAPHNE and (8) P N S CHANCE others to consider for the places.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
(12) KING SATURDAY trialed up nicely at the end of October before impressive on debut when 3rd at 1000M on November 7th, starting a touch slowly but quickly ridden up to be handy and then running on. He comes up in trip here and despite the wide draw has every chance of making his breakthrough. (3) CHOEGANG FORCE ran 4th in that same race, improving on his debut 6th. He has run on both times and may appreciate the additional furlong here. (1) DAEHO JEONSEOL didn’t do too much wrong when 5th on debut in October. He had an apprentice on that day so he does come up in weight, but he draws well and should be in the mix. (7) RAON THE GUTSEN also comes up in weight from a good 4th on debut over 1000M, but he too should be competitive here. (10) WISE BOY among others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(12) King Saturday (3) Choegang Force (1) Daeho Jeonseol (7) Raon The Gutsen
Next Best
10, 5
Fast Start
1, 2, 6, 10
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(2) BE CRAZY is likely to be a warm favourite. After winning an October trial, he led on debut over 1200M on November 14th before ultimately finishing 4th. He draws well to lead again, and this time shouldn’t be caught. (10) ROAD ACE should be on pace too. He ran well in his first three outings over 1000M but was never able to get a foothold in the race on his fourth start over 1300M last month. The draw isn’t great but if he can get away well, he can go close. (1) CUPID WONDER has mixed her form over nine prior appearances but overcame a wide draw last time out to run a good 4th at this distance and she should be involved again. (4) SHINE MUSIC has the fastest time among any of these at the distance and comes back in trip after a spin over 1700M last time out that was better than her 8th place finish suggests. Along with (8) B J FLASH, she should be in the hunt for some minor money.
Selections
(2) Be Crazy (10) Road Ace (1) Cupid Wonder (4) Shine Music
Next Best
8, 14
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
With a 4th, a 3rd and a 2nd from three starts so far, it’s time for (2) STELL LUNA to go one better and register her maiden win in this all-filly affair. She is up to this trip for the first time, but she has run on well in her races so far and from a great draw it’s hard to look past here. (8) FANTASTIC LOVE tackles further than 1000M for the first time. He is yet to finish any worse than 4th and there is no reason why he can’t handle the additional trip. (7) HAVANA JANE come sin having registered her best finish so far when 2nd over 1300M on November 12th. That day’s winner has gone on to win again and Havana Jane should be aiming for at least a place here. (1) WILD ADELE was 6th behind Havana Jane last time but draws better here and should be competing to get on the early speed. (4) DARI TTEUNI is the only one in the field who has won a race before and enters the calculations on that alone.
Selections
(2) Stell Luna (8) Fantastic Love (7) Havana Jane (1) Wilde Adele
Next Best
4, 5
Fast Start
1, 2, 5, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(6) DOUBLE TAKE is yet to win in eight attempts but enters with two 3rds and a 4th from her latest three including her last start 3rd on November 7th when she came from well off the pace to swoop home. Munro stays aboard, she carries the same weight and has the same gate and this time she looks the one to beat. (4) BARAMGWA HAMKKE was ridden more forward than in previous starts at his latest outing on November 13th and ended up a significantly improved 2nd. He draws much better this time and can maintain his momentum here. (1) VIENTO led for much of the way around at class and distance at her latest start, ultimately giving way and ending up a good 3rd. She has mixed her form over her six appearances but looks nicely in here on the inside to be on pace again and go close. (13) CHEONGSAN YEONGUNG and (11) TAEYANGTAGO among others to take into consideration.
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Tricky race. We’ll give another chance to (5) HORAENGI, who has only missed the top five on two of ten occasions so far. She drops back in trip having posted consistent, if admittedly unspectacular, times at 1400M in her most recent starts and she looks to have as good a chance as any here. (1) SUSO POWER is set to be the favourite. She races for the first time since June but went through two trials in November posting good times in both. She draws nicely on the inside and has very chance. (6) JEONSEOLUI PARTY was a much-improved 2nd on her latest outing over 1200M on November 7th. She was found to have bled that day and has since been back to trial which she came through unscathed and can go well again. (7) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL and (4) STATICE others with minor money claims.
Selections
(5) Horaengi (1) Suso Power (6) Jeonseolui Party (7) Seungriui Bulgil
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
3, 6, 7, 8
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies only here. (4) PURPLE K will be hot favourite. She was a super all the way winner over 1000M at class 6 level on October 10th before running a very solid 5th in a hot Nonghyup Chairman’s Cup at the end of that month. She could have probably taken her chance in the Korean Breeders’ Cup at Busan last week but goes here instead and really should be winning. (7) COMPLETE STAR has placed in her last three starts, all at this class and the most recent two at this distance. Last time out she posted a fast time in 2nd behind a decent winner and should sit handy again here and can push the favourite close. (11) BLACK SILVER doesn’t draw as well as she did when 3rd at her latest start but still has claims to be involved at the business end again. (1) WOL YEONG I and (9) HANGANG MAGIC are others in the frame.
Selections
(4) Purple K (7) Complete Star (11) Black Silver (1) Wol Yeong I
Next Best
9, 8
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
It’s hard to look past (10) DAEJI CHOICE here. He had been working up to his last start win, which came at class and distance on November 14th when he was quickly in front and won by a long way. He had the same wide gate that he has today and the same weight and should win again. (5) SUSO ENGINE made her breakthrough at start number two on November 7th, making all over this distance to win in a decent enough time. She comes up in class here but draws nicely again and she’ll be expected to challenge for the lead and be in this a long way again. (1) BEST HAMSEONG also comes up in class following a win at this distance three weeks ago. She draws well, carries a light weight and is another who should be on pace from the start. (9) MENI GLORY and (8) GOLD LUCK are others in the placing frame.
Selections
(10) Daeji Choice (5) Suso Engine (1) Best Hamseong (9) Meni Glory
Next Best
8, 3
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 9
Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(7) SECRET BOSS has won his latest two stars at class 5 over 1400M and then at this level and this distance. He has proven capable of winning from the front or from off the pace and while he comes up plenty in the weights, he can make it three in a row here. The logical second choice is (9) MUNHAK FIRE. A class and distance winner in a fast time in June, he comes in here having run 3rd in each of his latest three outings, beating a number of these in the process. He likes to be on pace so may need a little early luck in running but he should go close. (1) RACE ROYAL looked on her way to victory over 1400M at her latest outing before getting swamped in the closing stages. She’s yet to win but is yet to finish any worse than 5th and seemed to have sorted out her slow starting issues last time. She has placing chances again. (10) MUNHAK STORM and (6) ROCK LINE others to watch out for.
Selections
(7) Secret Boss (9) Munhak Fire (1) Race Royal (10) Munhak Storm
Next Best
6, 2
Fast Start
6, 9, 11, 12
Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(5) PURE KING comes up in class but significantly down in weight and is worth thought based on his 1400M form including his latest start when 2nd to the promising Mongttang. He can sit handy early here and looks the one to beat. (6) ACE DAY was a good class and distance winner two starts back when leading all the way. He comes out in trip today but does have a 2nd place at this distance on his record. He likes to lead in his races and if he can get into a rhythm, he can be in the finish. (9) INFINITY POWER is another up in class following a 1400M win when racing forward. He drops in weight here and though he draws a touch wider than ideal, he’ll be in this. Draw a line through the latest effort from (3) HAPPY WOMAN when she was very wide early. This should suit better as from gate three she should be able to get to her preferred handy position without too much trouble. (11) GALAXY ORB the best of the rest.
Selections
(5) Pure King (6) Ace Day (9) Infinity Power (3) Happy Woman
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open but attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. At least three of those with experience, however, look promising. We’ll tentatively side with (5) ONE MORE RUSH, who has raced twice for 7th and 3rd both at this distance and in similar times. She’ll sit handy to the pace here and today could be her day. It’s a toss-up between her and (3) EUNHYE SERVE. She came from midfield to run 4th on her debut on October 23rd, finishing off very nicely indeed. She draws better today and if she can get in a more forward positon early, could be hard to beat. (10) RAON THE WILD improved on his second start and while he draws wide this time, should benefit from that experience and can improve again. Among the first-timer starters, (6) POWER K and (1) NAOL ACE are likely to be the best supported.
Selections
(5) One More Rush (3) Eunhye Serve (10) Raon The Wild (6) Power K
Next Best
1, 4
Fast Start
2, 5, 10, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
More juvenile maidens but just two race for the first time. (8) WOW WOW has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far, both at 1000M and both times settling midfield and running on strong. The extra furlong can suit here and he looks the one to beat. (14) NAMSAN HORANGI draws the car-park but might like the additional furlong that he has compared with his 5th place on debut when he ran on pleasingly. He may need some luck in running early but expect some improvement nonetheless. (5) HANGANG BOSS also finished off well when 4th on debut over 1000M on November 6th. Among the fancied ones, he gets the best of the draw and can go closer here. (12) FLYING GOLD was similarly strong late on at his first time of asking and along with (7) SPUTNIK are among others in the placing frame.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Filly maidens here. Having run well for 3rd on debut, (5) GOLD KAISER had no luck from gate fourteen at her second start on November 7th, using up plenty of energy to find a promising positon before quickly laying out and weakening. From a much better draw today and with Moon Se Young climbing aboard, she is worth taking note of. (3) DIA POWERCAT’s previous attempt at this distance didn’t go too well but she looks ready for another crack following a solid 3rd place over 1000M in a good time on October 30th. From a good draw she should be in this a long way. (9) ARCH MEMORY was doing her best work late on when debuting in 4th place over 1000M on November 13th. Up in trip here should suit and she can go closer. (11) SPEED GALLOP and (6) MAGIC JUDE are others who can trouble the judges.
Selections
(5) Gold Kaiser (3) Dia Powercat (9) Arch Memory (11) Speed Gallop
Next Best
6, 7
Fast Start
3, 5, 6, 8i
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
The form here is patchy to say the least. (12) GREAT EYE has stuttered a little in his latest two but has shown ability at this distance especially when 2nd three starts back, coming from off the pace. The wide draw isn’t too much of a concern and while Moon Se-young will have had swifter conveyances, this may be another winner. (4) V QUEEN has been consistent if unspectacular across eight starts to date but she has registered the fastest time of any of these at the distance and from a good draw should be in contention here. (9) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN returned from ten months out to run a creditable 7th of twelve at 1200M on November 6th. She should have come on for that run and can improve here. (5) WONDERFUL CAT and (2) SONGAM PLAYER are others in the hunt.
Selections
(12) Great Eye (4) V Queen (9) Sojunghan Dangsin (5) Wonderful Cat
The final leg of the delayed 2021 Korean Triple Crown finally takes place at Seoul on Sunday afternoon. Just eight runners will compete but they include Heat Yegam and Winner’s Man, the winners of the first two legs of the Series. Before that, racing gets underway on Friday with a seven-race card from 12:40 to 18:00. All betting locations will be open but attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:
Racing returns to Busan where Complete Value won last weekend’s Korean Breeders’ Cup to be crowned Champion Juvenile
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(3) WIND HIGH stepped up to this distance at start number three on October 8th and recorded a good 3rd place having sat handy throughout. She draws nicely here, carries the same light weight, and has solid claims to make the breakthrough. (1) ANNIKA GIRL has been knocking on the door for a while and took a step forward with a good 2nd place over this trip on November 7th, having settled well back. The inside gate gives options to her rider and she should be close at hand again here. (9) BARAM GONGJU was caught wide and then well back at her latest start over 1300M before flying home in the closing stages for 3rd place. She went well at this trip three starts back and should be doing her best work late on again. (8) PICTURE JASPER is another who comes in off a last start 3rd. (4) SEONGSIL SONYEO the logical next best.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
The exposed form here isn’t great. (4) UNBRIDLED QUEEN tackles this distance for the first time and is the only one in the field who has a 2nd place finish to her name. She has the ability to run on and with Seo Seung-un returning to the mount has as good a chance as any of making her breakthrough here. (3) WORLD FLOWER comes in off two consistent performances at this distance, last time overcoming a wide draw to run on well for 4th with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She gets a much better gate today and should be going close. (8) OMEGA GIRL comes back in trip after recent outings over a mile. She has posted a decent time at this distance and in this company should be competitive. (5) GOLDEN BROOM hasn’t done much in three starts so far but likewise hasn’t done much wrong either. His best finish is a 4th over 1000M but he stuck to his task over 1200M last time and can be in the mix here. (6) NEW FRESH has slowly shown signs of improvement and is another with minor money hopes.
Selections
(4) Unbridled Queen (3) World Flower (8) Omega Girl (5) Golden Broom
Next Best
6, 2
Fast Start
1, 4, 5, 7
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
He may have only finished in midfield in his latest two but (8) WILD BLUE has the fastest time among these over the distance and today finds himself in more amenable company. Expect him to sit on pace or handy here and he can win. (1) CHEONHA NUMBER ONE comes up in class having scored his maiden win at start number eight over 1200M on November 5th. He came from a handy position that day, finishing off well and while he comes up to this trip for the first time, he draws nicely and carries a light weight. (9) ADELE SMART is the only one of these to have already won at the distance and that alone makes him a contender again here while (5) HAVE A GOOD TIME didn’t go well on his previous try at 1400M but draws much better today and if he can get on pace, then he has claims. (3) GOOD STAR another with minor money hopes.
Selections
(8) Wild Blue (1) Cheonha Number One (9) Adele Smart (5) Have A Good Time
Next Best
3, 2
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 8
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(10) OREUDA showed good speed on debut on October 15th to quickly get to the front and run on to win over 1000M. This is further and slightly harder given that it’s up in class but with some natural improvement he looks very much in this. (7) TTEUGEOUN MANNAM is the big danger. Since resuming following nine months out, she has a 2nd and a 3rd to her name, both at this distance and the latter at this class three weeks ago when she sat just behind the speed throughout and was beaten only by a couple of decent ones. She has a real chance here. (12) KING ALLIE was a winner on debut back in April and followed it up with consecutive 3rd place finishes. He hasn’t raced since July but looked very well when winning a November trial in a fast time and while the wide draw doesn’t do him any favours, he should be competitive first-up. (6) CATCH THE VICTORY and (3) TWO TWO LIME are others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(10) Oreuda (7) Tteugeoun Mannam (12) King Allie (6) Catch The Victory
Next Best
3, 2
Fast Start
2, 6, 10, 12
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(11) LANE KILLER got his maiden win over a mile two starts back before running 2nd at this distance on his first attempt at class 5, beating three of today’s rivals in the process on November 19th. He does come up slightly in the weights and drawing wide is never easy at 1800M in Busan but he is very much the one to beat here. (3) CENTUM THOR ran 4th in that race. He is yet to win in eleven attempts but has consistently gone close and has strong claims on another money finish here. (6) OLD CHEONHA is up in class and distance following a maiden win at start number five over a mile on November 19th. His racing style suggests that he should cope with the additional furlong and he can’t be ruled out. Nor can (8) ACE FOUR TEN, who has good experience at this level and is rarely far away. (7) DOCTOR PRO another who could place.
Selections
(11) Lane Killer (3) Centum Thor (6) Old Cheonha (8) Ace Four Ten
Next Best
7, 1
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 8
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
(7) DOCTOR TAKE came from midfield to comprehensively score over this distance on November 12th. He comes up in class here but there isn’t too much to fear and he has every chance of winning again. (2) SEUNGNI TOUT looks to be the main rival. He’s been a model of consistency at this class and comes in after a good 3rd over a mile at his latest start in November. He comes up 3kg in the weights but draws nicely and must be considered. (6) GREAT DANCE was a solid class and distance 4th on November 19th and should be in the mix again while (5) DONGBANUI SIJAK comes up in trip following a decent 2nd place at 1400M. The latter comes down in the weights and looks very nicely in here. (1) YEONGBONGSAN, a class and distance winner at odds two starts back is another one in the frame in a competitive race.
Selections
(7) Doctor Take (2) Seungni Tout (6) Great Dance (5) Dongbanui Sijak
Next Best
1, 4
Fast Start
2, 3, 6, 8
Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
It’s about time (10) ROCKY SKY returned to the winner’s circle. He has won just the once from fourteen starts but has finished as runner-up on no fewer than seven occasions, most recently at his last start when racing against several of today’s rivals at this class over 1400M on November 14th. The wide draw may not be ideal but he should be the one to beat here. (5) BABEL HIT was the winner that day, coming from well back to score. He comes up 3kg in the weights as a result but warrants respect. (9) AMOR FATI is up in class after an all the way win over 1200M on November 5th. He carries a really light weight here and should measure up in today’s company. (4) GEUMA PSYCHIC ran 6th in that November 14th race, positing a fast time, and should be aiming to get closer today. (6) RAON THE POWER was an also-ran in the November 14th race but has plenty of speed about him and can be given another chance.
Horse Racing in Korea 