The winners of last year’s international Korea Sprint and Korea Cup both made their 2023 debuts on Sunday but while Eoma Eoma ran out a comfortable winner at Seoul, Winner’s Man could manage no better than 4th in the feature event of the afternoon at Busan.
Winner’s Man, who also won the season-ending Grand Prix Stakes to take his Group 1 tally to three, was sent off as the odds-on favourite for the class 1 1800M south coast feature. Always prominent, the five-year-old briefly struck the front under Seo Seung-un in the home straight but unlike in his big race wins, he failed to kick on and with half a furlong to go it was clear it wasn’t going to be his day.
Victory ultimately went to the Franco Da Silva ridden Flat Babe, runner-up in last November’s Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup, with veteran King Of Glory rolling back the years with a fast finishing 2nd and Tuhonui Banseok, 3rd in the Grand Prix edging out Winner’s Man in a photo for 4th.
A five-year-old mare by Flat Out, Flat Babe has been something of a revelation in the last few months, rapidly moving from a solid but unspectacular class 3 campaigner to class 1 winner in the space of four races since being upped to racing around two turns. She looks set to be a serious contender in this year’s Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares.
As for Winner’s Man, connections pointed afterwards to it being the first time he had carried 60kg in a race – he was giving 8kg to the winner – in addition to him racing at his heaviest ever bodyweight of 550kg – up 18kg since the Grand Prix. Winner’s Man’s anticipated next run will be in the Herald Business Trophy (2000M KOR-G3) at Seoul on April 16th. There he will renew his rivalry with Raon The Fighter, so impressive last week in his own seasonal opener.
Perhaps it was because of Winner’s Man’s performance earlier in the afternoon, as well as the disconcerting sight of regular jockey Moon Se-young’s name next to another horse, that led to Eoma Eoma being sent off at better than even money for his first outing as a six-year-old at class 1 over 1200M at Seoul.
With the race under handicap conditions, Eoma Eoma would, like Winner’s Man, have been assigned 60kg but trainer Song Moon-gil opted to use apprentice O Su-cheol and take advantage of his 2kg claim. Moon Se-young accordingly climbed aboard Jangsan Laser who was strongly backed into a close second-favourite.
Those who kept faith with Eoma Eoma were rewarded as Algorithms entire was quick out of the gate to be on the early speed with East Jet, racing very keenly and pulling hard. Apprentice O Su-cheol kept his cool though and once he let Eoma Eoma stride out in the home straight, the US-bred sped away for a three-length win with his rivals always at arm’s length.
The next five home were separated by just a length with Moon and Jangsan Laser in 2nd while the venerable Morfhis ran 3rd with a typical Morfhis late run. The victory, Eoma Eoma’s fourteenth in total, completed a treble on the day for apprentice O Su-cheol, who may not get the call once the star horse returns to Group racing, but enjoyed surely the best day of his career so far.
That next run for Eoma Eoma is likely to be the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) on the south coast on April 2nd.
Korea Cup and Sprint champions Winner’s Man and Eoma Eoma both make the 2023 debuts on Sunday. The Cup winner and Horse of the Year Winner’s Man goes in the class 1 race 6 at Busan while Eoma Eoma makes his seasonal debut in the class 1 race 11 at Seoul. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:05 to 15:40. Here are the previews:
Eoma Eoma will race for the first time in 2023 although Moon Se-young doesn’t get the call-up (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open the Sunday proceedings. (4) NINE EAGLE is probably going to be one of the shortest priced favourites of the day, having run 2nd on debut over the distance o January 8th, leading for most of the way. He should have come on for that run, he should be on pace again, and this time can go all the way. Nothing else in the race has finished any better than 6th. (7) COLITAS finished in exactly that position on debut in that same January 8th race behind Nine Eagle. He was slowly away that day and went around at the back before running on and should be better for the experience. (2) LUCKY BOUNCE has raced twice, both times well backed after a trial win. Moon Se-young gets back aboard and punters are likely to remain faithful for at lease a place. (8) CHONGAL COLONEL and (10) CLUB D others who could potentially improve.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (5) ARBELOUR is the pick, having improved at start number two on February 5th. Racing on pace and running 2nd over this distance. Without an apprentice claim, he comes up a full 4kg in the weights but from a good draw he can get an easy lead and can prove too good. The main danger is (12) RAON STRONG. He debuted in that February 5th race and ran a creditable 4th behind Arbelour, having settled in the middle of the pack. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he should have derived benefit from that run. As for the debut-makers, (9) TAEWANG SINGI was on pace in his trial and crossed the line in 3rd place in a good time. (8) QUEEN OF JOY similar looked promising in her heat and is capable of a bold showing first up. Returning to the experience ones, (7) GREY CHAMP improved at start number two and can continue to make progress here.
Selections
(5) Arbelour (12) Raon Strong (9) Taewang Singi (8) Queen Of Joy
Next Best
7, 11
Fast Start
3, 5, 9, 12
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Maiden three-year-old fillies and it’s hard to go too far past (3) SARYEONI TYCHE. She’s run 3rd and 4th in tow starts so far, sitting handy over 1000M and then settling back at 1200M. She draws nicely, the additional half furlong should suit, and she probably won’t need to improve very much to win. (8) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL has shown good consistency in her latest three appearances with a 4th place over this trip the most recent. She can settle in midfield here and has a strong finish on her. (9) HERO QUEEN was a touch disappointing at her latest start on January 28th when failing to run on. She had finished off very nicely in her preceding two outings though and in this company is worth another chance today. (7) BEAUTIFUL MELODY and (1) SMARTY GLORY others who may improve.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
Competitive maiden with a few looking ready to win. (4) PEGACORN is one of them as he comes in after a career to date best of 2nd place over 1400M on January 27th when settling handy, dropping back and then running on, only going down by a head. The further step up in trip can suit and he has a good chance. (9) K GOLD BAR is another of those in the “ready to win” category. He enters off a solid 4th place over 1300M at the end of January he too may like the chance of a longer distance today. (5) HAMAN BAEKISAN is one of only three of the twelve to have prior experience of racing over a mile. He settled right back out of the widest gate on February 3rd before running on strongly for 3rd. The same apprentice enables him to carry the same light weight here and he can be running into some money again. (11) WONDERFUL CHANCE has five-lengths to make up on Pegacorn and also carries more weight than he did on January 27th but, along with (8) ADELE HORANGI, warrants consideration as a place chance.
Selections
(4) Pegacorn (9) K Gold Bar (5) Haman Baekisan (11) Wonderful Chance
Next Best
8, 1
Fast Start
3, 4, 9, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
Another maiden and a couple of prolific non-winners have solid claims to finally get on the board here. (3) EUREKA stepped up to 1700M on January 28th and beat several of these on his way to a career-best 2nd place racing handy throughout, although well beaten by a good winner. He carries the same weight, draws a similarly favourable gate, and can go one better. (7) HOUYHNHNM was 3rd in that race at what was start number seventeen. He is in the best form of his career having run 2nd at the start prior, also at this distance. He settles back and runs on and he has as good a chance as any here. (8) CAMINO comes up in trip having led and ultimately finishing 3rd on his second start on Christmas Day. He comes up in the weights without an apprentice claim today but should be competitive in this company. (10) FIRST CHOUX and (1) SSANG OK RU among others in the minor money hunt.
Selections
(3) Eureka (7) Houyhnhnm, (8) Camino (10) First Choux
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 4, 8, 10
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only and (5) THUNDER FURY looks to be the one to beat here. She’s only finished outside the top-four on one occasion and enters off a close runner-up finish in a very similar race over class and distance on January 27th when settling midfield and running on well. She draws nicely here to stalk the early leaders and can prove too strong. (1) GRAPHENE RAP WORLD had a poor day at the office in the same race when showing prominently early before weakening. Her form before that was good and she may have come on for what was her first try at tis distance and from the inside gate she can lead again and stay in it longer. (7) DOCTOR TIFFANY was a good winner over 1000M on debut in January before being stepped up to a mile for her first try at this class on February 5th. She showed at the front but ultimately finished 6th and may find today’s assignment more suitable. (6) WORLD CLASS CAT and (3) DOCTOR KONGSUNI other place chances.
Selections
(5) Thunder Fury (1) Graphene Rap World (7) Doctor Tiffany (6) World Class Cat
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
1, 7, 10, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A competitive race. (4) JILJU DAESE ran 2nd on debut before getting her maiden win at start number two over this distance at the end of last October. She hasn’t raced since but looked well enough when not asked to do too much in a trial last week. She is up in class from since we last saw her but has every chance of making a big impact first up here. (7) LONDON SKY come sin off a 2nd and a 4th place both at this class and both at 1200M. He likes to settle back and run on and with Lim Gi-won climbing aboard today, he will have plenty of backers. (1) ROCK IMPACT comes up in class after a good win over this distance on January 28th when coming from off the pace. He comes down 2kg in the weights, draws well, and can measure up in this company. (6) HUIMANG CHAMP and up in class (12) SAINT LUCCA among others to keep safe.
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener with five of the twelve racing for the first time. The existing form isn’t hugely impressive so we’ll break the general rule of siding with experience in these kinds of races and take a chance on first-timer (5) PHOENIX CLASS. She settled handy in her trial and ran on well for a close 3rd in a fair time. She draws well enough here and she won’t need to improve too much to put in a bold showing. She won’t be favourite and may offer some value. (2) GIANT RULER ran pleasingly enough for 4th on debut over this distance on January 14th, settling midfield. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can go close here. She will dispute favourite status with (7) ARGO MIJEOK. He is the most experience in the race and does have a 3rd place in his record. An Apprentice takes the weight down and he should be aiming to match or better that 3rd here. Other first timer starters (11) CRAZY JACKPOT and (8) FYING ZEST may have a say in the minors.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies with three racing for the first time. (8) DANDI is the one to beat. She was well backed on debut on January 7th when she ran 2nd in a similar race over this distance. She should have some natural improvement here and Moon Se-young climbs on. The logical danger is (2) FINAL JILJU. After a midfield finish on debut, she improved to 3rd place having overcome a wide gate over this distance on January 28th. She draws much better this time and can go even closer here. The exposed form drops off precipitously after those two (the quinella will be an extremely short price) so we might as well look at the newcomers. (7) SOARA TO TO looks the most likely to make an immediate impact having looked all over the place n a string of failed trials at the back end of last year before suddenly coming out in January and running very pleasingly in a heat. If she brings that day’s form to the races, she can aim for 3rd here. (9) HONOR ROSE won her trial and while that time was slow, that’s enough to give her a chance here. (4) CUPID CHIC a potential improver.
Selections
(8) Dandi (2) Final Jilju (7) Soara To To (9) Honor Rose
Next Best
4, 5
Fast Start
4, 6, 8, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens. (6) HIGH GRAND has been consistent across his five starts to date and was a very good 2nd over 1200M two starts back when leading until the closing stages. He came up to this trip for his latest appearance on December 17th when he had to deal with gate ten but got to a handy position and ran on for 4th. (2) ARA MOA debuted last October in good fashion when an on pace runner-up over 1200M. She hasn’t reappeared since, but she came back to trial last Friday and won her heat. So long as she didn’t leave her race back there – and it wasn’t a particularly quick time so she shouldn’t have done – she can go well here. (5) GOLD MIGHTY is another who has shown promise across his three starts so far with the best being a 2nd place – well beaten by a good winner – over five furlongs in December. He came from off the pace to run 4th on his first try at this distance on January 7th and looks at least a place chance here. (8) GRAND SILVER and (7) WONPYEONG CHUKJE others in the placing frame.
Selections
(6) High Grand (2) Ara Moa (5) Gold Mighty (8) Grand Silver
Next Best
7, 4
Fast Start
2, 3, 6, 7
Seoul Race 4: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Three-year-old imported fillies here. There is one previous winner and (7) MIGHTY LOOK is favoured to strike again. She ran 5th on debut but then scored in a very similar class and distance race on January 28th when settling towards the front of midfield and proving too strong with a couple of today’s rivals behind here. She comes up slightly in the weights but should be too good. There are three debut-makers and (10) POWER VICTORY is sure to be of interest. She ran a good 2nd in a decent time in her trial and the jockey booking will make punters take note. (8) MOONHAK SONG has mixed her form across four starts so far and was disappointing in that January 28th race. She has a 3rd and a 4th to her name though and can be given another chance here. (4) MEDICI WOLF too will need her latest one forgiven when she was never a factor over 1400M. She ran 3rd in the Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy at this distance last October and she too gets another chance. (9) AKDONG ARGO another in the money hunt.
Selections
(7) Mighty Look (10) Power Victory (8) Moonhak Song (4) Medici Wolf
Next Best
9, 5
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 9
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
This is a really competitive race so it might be best to try to find one at odds. (8) BLACK MOTION was an eye-catching winner on debut over 1000M in December before weakening to last place on his first try at class and distance on January 28th. Since then he has been back to trial, which he won in a fast time two weeks ago and he looks worth another chance today. (11) EUNHYE just about warrants favourite status. He returned from ten months out to run a very solid 3rd in that January 28th race. He should have come on for that run and can go close here. Like Black Motion, (4) YONGBI SEOUL was a smart winner on debut over the minimum trip before struggling on his first try at this class and distance. He bounced back from that to finish 5th in a fast race on January 14th and from a nice draw he can be on pace and in this a long way. (2) BEAT RUNNER and (6) JEONGSANG FIGHTING among others in the hunt.
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (5) ROAD TO GLORY ran a fair 5th on debut over 1000M before coming back on January 27th at 1200M and settling right at the back of the field before finishing strongly for 2nd. He was well beaten by a good winner but it was a solid effort and with the slight step up in trip, he can be winning today. (7) RAON THE HARLEY has a 2nd and a 3rd from two outings to date, both at 1200M, the first time racing on pace the second in midfield and running on. In this company, he should be at the front early and is the main danger. (12) SPECIALIST has raced fairly enough in two outings to date and was an improved 5th in the most recent of them. He has the fastest final furlong time among these so the wide draw may not be a problem and he can continue to improve. (8) SKY SHOT and (10) SILK FASHION ROAD other potential improvers.
Selections
(5) Road To Glory (7) Raon The Harley (12) Specialist (8) Sky Shot
Next Best
10, 3
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
A maiden restricted to three-year-old fillies with four of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll go with (3) THEIA who has raced adequately for 5th and 6th in two prior appearances and has recorded the fastest time among those here who have already tackled this distance. In both of those she was drawn wide, but she comes into a much better gate here, and she can win. She will be disputing favourite status with (6) B.K. GALLOP. She’s been on pace in both outings so far and led until the final furlong on her second start on January 27th, ultimately finishing 3rd ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. She will be on pace again and will surely be in this a very long way. (9) GIJEOGUI GEUMBIT was 4th in that same race. She has two-lengths to find on B.K. Gallop but she improved from her debut and can improve again here. (10) DYMANIC WINNER and (11) GREEN LEGEND are others who should have some natural improvement from their respective debuts.
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
A regular maiden here and the form isn’t great with the twelve of them having thirty-two prior starts between them but not a single top-three finish. (11) SAEKDAL FIGHTER does have a couple of 4th places, recorded at this distance and at 1300M in back-to-back starts in December and January. His times have been fair, including on his latest when tried over 1400M two weeks ago and he has as good a chance as any here. (10) AQUA MAGIC also has a brace of 4th places. They were both over this distance and she also has the fastest time of any of these for the 1200M. She likes to race handy so may need some luck from the wide draw, but she should have a big say here. (1) GANGSEO JEORYEONG raced once without distinction last autumn. She re-qualified at the beginning of this month and then went through a second voluntary trial two weeks ago when he stopped the clock in a very encouraging time. He draws nicely and could be much better this time around. (8) WORLD POINT and (5) WONDERFUL CHACHA the others who have hinted at ability
Selections
(11) Saekdal Fighter (10) Aqua Magic (1) Gangseo Jeoryeong (8) World Point
Next Best
5, 7
Fast Start
1, 3, 10, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(3) HANGANG SAVER is the one to beat here. His win came at this distance three starts back when making all and he enters having run a good 4th in a fast time at this class on January 13th. From a nice draw he can get an early lead and he may take some getting past. (11) MY MANTRA was an all the way winner on January 29th having previously run 2nd. She comes up in class here and while she draws a touch wide for comfort, her early speed can see her to a good position and she has every chance of measuring up at this level. The wildcard is (2) CUTE GUY. He raced three times between March and June last year finishing no worse than 4th and secured a class 6 win over 1400M. He has been out for seven months but looked well when trialling up at the end of January and a bold first-up showing is possible. (1) JEONGMUN COBIT needs a line drawn through his latest in December but has placed at class and distance and can be given another chance here. (5) CHEONHA NUMBER ONE another in the placing frame.
Selections
(3) Hangang Saver (11) My Mantra (2) Cute Guy (1) Jeongmun Cobit
Next Best
5, 10
Fast Start
2, 3, 9, 11
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Tricky race. (10) TAP STAR returned from almost six months out to run 3rd in a fast race over 1200M on January 13th. He should have derived benefit from that run and he doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. This is his first time tackling 1400M but Seo Seung-un remains aboard and he has every chance. (1) SPECIAL HERO enters off a very close 4th place in what was a tight finish over 1300M at this class on February 3rd. That was an uptick on her recent form but she draws the same good gate today and continues under a light weight. Speaking of light weights, an apprentice claim enables (2) RUBY STORM to come down a full 5kg from his latest effort, which was an unsuccessful tilt at 1800M on January 27th when weakening in the straight. Prior to that he recorded back-to-back 3rd places over this trip and today should be much more to his liking. (7) CHEONMA HASEO has won just once in thirty-eight starts but he knows how to pick up a cheque at this level and will be running on late. (8) DOCTOR PENTAGON among plenty of others capable of challenging for minor money.
Raon The Fighter opened his five-year-old campaign with a statement performance, crushing a hopelessly outclassed Class 1 field over 1800M at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.
Sent off as a prohibitive favourite under the lights in what was the final race of the day as dusk fell across the capital, Raon The Fighter was quickly in command of the twelve-strong field and had opened up a big lead even before the home straight, with the rest unable to match his tempo. Asked for a brief effort by Lim Gi-won, who was partnering him for the first time, the Bayern entire was then eased in the final stages, crossing hte line ten-lengths to the good of The Gumpu in 2nd place.
The Gumpu just about gets in shot after Raon The Fighter crossed the line
Runner-up in both the Korea Cup and the Grand Prix Stakes, the goal for Raon The Fighter in 2023 is to win a Group 1 race, and to achieve that, he is going to have to overcome the horse who beat him on both those occasions, Winner’s Man. The 2022 Horse of the Year is slated to make his first start of the year at Busan next Sunday.
Assuming that Raon The Fighter remains targeted at staying races as opposed to dropping back to the sprinting distances (at which he is still probably the best horse in the country, even including Eoma Eoma), the first race in which he and Winner’s Man could conceivably meet is the Herald Business Trophy (2000M KOR-G3) at Seoul on Sunday April 16.
Raon The Fighter, runner-up in the Korea Cup and Grand Prix Stakes and second highest rated horse in Korea after his nemesis, Winner’s Man, kicks off his five-year-old campaign at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. He goes around in the very final race of the day at class 1 over 1800M. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:05 to 15:40. Here are the previews:
Raon The Fighter put daylight between himself and the field in last year’s KRA Cup Classic (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies. (2) ELITE ROYAL will be a warm favourite having been very slow going through the gears on debut but running on for 5th and then an on pace 2nd when stepped up to this distance at start number two on January 15th, beating a few of today’s rivals in the process. She draws nicely here and may tale some beating. (11) DALGEUM has raced fairly across three starts so far. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem here and the slight step up in trip may suit. (7) DASI TAEEONADO was 4th behind Elite Royal on January 15th, settling midfield and running on. That continued a consistent start to her career that has seen her in the top0five on each occasion, and from a better draw today, she can go closer. (4) SEMYEONG LADY and (3) NAOL SKY others with potential to improve.
Selections
(2) Elite Royal (11) Dalgeum (7) Dasi Taeeonado (4) Semyeong Lady
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens and we’ll take a chance on one of the two first-time starters. That’s (9) LEMON DOKKI who after failing to qualify in his first trial last November, looked a much better prospect when running 2nd from off the pace in another in January, stopping the clock in a good time. The 1300M first-up should suit and he can win. (3) COOL RUNNING has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes to his name from three starts so far. That runner-up finish was at this distance in December when leading for much of the way around and from a good draw, he should be on pace again and has solid chances. (5) ROCK POWER was sent off as favourite on debut having won a trial. He ran 4th on his race day bow over 1200M when overcoming gate ten to sit handy. He should have derived benefit from that experience and can be considered for improvement here. (1) NAMYANG BOLT and (6) MORNING FLOW others in the placing frame.
Selections
(9) Lemon Dokki (3) Cool Running (5) Rock Power (1) Namyang Bolt
Next Best
6, 4
Fast Start
3, 5, 6, 7
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens. (7) JANGSAN SPO is favoured. He was sent off as favourite on debut on January 29th having own a trial and though he led, he ultimately ran out of petrol in the home straight and ended up in 5th place. He should have benefitted from that run and is worth another chance today. (2) BAEDARI WANGJA also comes in having been a well beaten favourite in his latest outing over 1300M. Prior to that though he had registered back-to-back 4th place finishes over this distance and that form puts him in in the frame here. (4) AGAPANTHUS ran fairly on debut in December when on pace. He should be showing at the front here and with some natural improvement can be in the finish. (9) RUBY AGAIN has made progress across three starts so far and can continue her upward trajectory today while first-timer (12) BANFF might be worth a chance at an each-way price.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with four of the ten racing for the first time. (6) WONDERFUL PHONE will be favourite, having run 2nd and 3rd in her two prior outings at 1000M and 1300M respectively. Both times she has been slowly away and settled back before running on but from a central draw today, she may be a little closer and is the one to beat. Of the first timers, (8) NORTHERN BID is the pick. He went through two trials, winning the second of them on February 4th when settling back and running on, recording a fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he should be right in this. (2) POWER SOUND hasn’t raced since running 2nd on his debut at this distance last September. He looked well though when trialling up last week, stopping the clock in a fast time, and so long as he didn’t leave his race there, should be competitive. (5) GEMIJIN went through the same trial having not raced since an indifferent October debut. She crossed the line just a tenth of a second after Power Sound and can go well here. (3) QUEENS LANDING another in the frame.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
A standard maiden here and based on her debut performance on January 8th, when 2nd over 1300M having led from the gate, (2) HANGAWI SEONMUL should start a hot favourite. She draws well, Antonio remains aboard, and she can lead every step of the way this time against a very ordinary field. (11) BEST PLAN probably has the best chance of stopping her. She was 6th behind Hangawi Seonmul in that January 8th race and has subsequently raced once more, finishing 4th of twelve over 1400M on February 5th. She is yet to breach the top-two in sixteen tries but has plenty of minor money finishes and should be looking for a career-best finish here. The form really does drop off after those two. (6) MOON DUST hinted at potential improvement last start when 6th over 1200M and develop further here. (7) RAON JUMP and (3) MAGIC MOCCASIN, the later at least with a couple of 3rd places to her name, others to consider.
Selections
(2) Hangawi Seonmul (11) Best Plan (6) Moon Dust (7) Raon Jump
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 6
Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies, all of them imported from the USA. (9) CARPE BABEL is probably the banker favourite of the meeting. She found her debut in the Gyeongnam DoMin Ilbo a bot much too soon but has since finished runner-up in both subsequent starts and crucially has beaten plenty of these in the process. She has been on pace in both of those outings so may be drawn a touch wider than ideal, but she should have too much. (3) ALPHA THOR will be second favourite. She has run 3rd and 5th behind Carpe Babel in her latest two but did beat her when 5th in that DoMin Ilbo Trophy. She comes up 2kg in the weights but should be settling back and running on here. (11) ANOTHER MARINE finished 6th behind Carpe Babel and Alpha Thor on January 27th. That was her debut appearance and while she draws wide again, she can improve. (4) DAINYJI and (5) BABEL SUNSHINE are others to keep safe.
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
Another standard maiden. (5) GHOST CHARM has really figured out what he is supposed to be doing in his last couple, culminating in a runner-up finish when stepped up to this distance on January 15th, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. He sat midfield and ran on and can aim to do the same again today, this time going one better. (11) BADAUI KKUM enters with recent form reading well. A previous effort at this trip wasn’t great but he has been working home well in his latest efforts and can be a danger late here. (2) FINAL CHUKJE has finished in 5th place in three of his four outings to date. He comes up to this trip for the first time and it may suit. (9) STAND BY ME and (8) PURPLE STORM the other logical place hopes.
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
(10) LEGAL HIGH is the most experienced of these with five starts behind her and she looks to be working towards a win. Her last outing was her best when a close 2nd over 1300M having been handy throughout. The draw is a touch wide, but she may just prove too good. (4) THUNDER BLUE raced once last summer without distinction, but looked much better when reappearing six months later on January 15th when he was handy throughout and came home 2nd over this distance. He should have come on for that run and is firmly in this. (12) MR QUALITY led for much of his debut race on January 14th, ultimately having to settle for 2nd place. He is done no favours by the draw here but with a touch of luck at the start should be in it a long way again. (3) ZEROBAEKFOUR improved considerably last time out and along with (9) FLY DAY is another worth thought.
Selections
(10) Legal High (4) Thunder Blue (12) Mr Quality (3) Zerobaekfour
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
5, 7, 10, 12
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 million
Three-year-old maiden fillies. A few of them come in looking ready to win but (1) DONGHAENG FIRST gets the decision. Having run 4th on debut over 1000M she stepped up to this distance on January 15th and ran 3rd, having sat handy throughout. The time was quicker than any of the others have achieved at this distance and she draws very nicely in the inside gate. (3) NAOL HAENGBOK has a 2nd and a 4th from her two appearances, both times having raced on the pace. She draws much better than she did last time and can be a danger here. (11) CUPID CHAMP overcame a similarly wide gate to run 3rd over 1300M on January 8th. She’s raced well on all three occasions so far and with any top-three finish meaning she will be in class 5 next time, it’s not impossible that she could bow out of the bottom level with a win. Those three look the clear best but the two debut-makers, (8) GEUMSEONG REVERE and (7) BAEKPYO both hinted at ability when trialling together on January 13th and bold showings are possible.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(2) NAOL GONI registered his maiden win at start number three over 1300M on January 14th, making all. It was not a surprise, based on her his previous two outings and while he is up in class here, he comes down in the weights, draws very nicely, and has every chance of leading all the way again. Slightly more unexpected was (6) GANGHAN QUEEN getting her maiden victory on January 7th, she too leading all the way. She is a front-runner and carries a very light weight here and could measure up at a probable each-way price. (8) DOLBAE has plenty of experience at this level and while she can mix her form, she enters off a strong 2nd place at class and distance a month ago when settling midfield and running on. She is up in the weights but is in the frame. (5) CLAIR BEST and (4) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM are others who may enter the calculations.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only here and for once, (7) THE FAVORITE will be exactly that. And a warm one too having beaten a few of these on her way to 2nd place in a very similar race over 1300M on January 29th when settling in midfield and running on strongly. The additional half-furlong can be in her favour and at start fourteen, she can finally make the breakthrough. Should she find one too quick again, it could be (3) QUEEN OF BEST. She does know how to win, having done it on three occasions and enters off a useful class and distance 4th on January 7th when she came from off the pace. An apprentice claim takes her weight down and she can be considered. (1) GREEN FEELSTAR was one of those behind The Favorite last month when going right back and running on too late. Coming back up to 1400M may suit. (12) V QUEEN and (8) TROT QUEEN among the minor money hopes.
Selections
(7) The Favorite (3) Queen Of Best (1) Green Feelstar (12) V Queen
Next Best
8, 4
Fast Start
3, 7, 8, 9
Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(4) GIPPEUM HWANHO took a very narrow win over 1200M at class 5 level on January 15th. It was his maiden score but it came after three consecutive runner-up finishes and while he is up in class here, he comes down significantly in the weights he draws well, and he can win again. (11) GANA FASHION is the principal danger. She won at class and distance in December before dropping back to 1200M and finishing 5th of twelve on January 14th. She carries 3kg more than when she won but the wide draw shouldn’t be problematic and she has a chance. (12) K N SKETCH has run consistently good times at this distance and also holds a win at it. He comes up 2kg from his latest but is another who won’t be perturbed by the wide gate and can be working home well. (5) WOLF PLAY and (10) BODY STAR among other placing chances.
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 9-race program from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener. The favourite will be (4) CHEERFUL LIFE, who having run 5th on debut over 1000M, stepped up to this trip at start number two on January 15th and ran 2nd having led for most of the way around. He draws nicely to be on pace again and this time will be expected to go all the way. (7) SKY MOUNTAIN is the most credible danger. She’s bee on pace in both he starts so far finishing 4th and 5th at 1000M and 1300M, recoding good times on both occasions. She’ll be up with the speed and in this a long way again. (1) LEMON BULPAE was green and slow on debut in December but has since been back to trial where he delivered a much more assured (and quicker) performance. If he brings that form to the races, he can be in the finish here. (8) MORO and (3) SEONGSIL STAR others in the money hunt.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies here. The one to beat is (2) HERE THE QUEEN who was a solid 2nd when stepped up to this distance on what was her second appearance on January 15th when slowly away before running on well. She draws a much better gate this time and the same apprentice jockey keeps her carried weight low. She should go one better. (4) B.K. NUMA hinted that she may be figuring things out when an improved 5th in a decent time at this trip on January 15th. She beat a couple of these in the process and can maintain her upward trajectory here. (5) MASARANGGIL settled back in the field on debut at this distance on January 27th before running on well for 2nd. The time wasn’t fast, but she should have derived benefit from the run and can be in the mix again here. (12) NEXT MARINE and (11) AMAZING MOVE are done no favours by the draw, but both look to have potential to improve.
Selections
(2) Here The Queen (4) B.K. Numa (5) Masaranggil (12) Next Marine
Next Best
11, 9
Fast Start
1, 3, 6, 12
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
Tricky one but given the paucity of form of the opposition, it is tempting to go with the solitary debut-maker (9) ACE A MOCA. She was close to the pace in her trial and stopped the clock in a fair time. Seo Seung-un is aboard and there looks to be plenty to like about the four-year-old. (5) VELOCIRAPTOR has shown steady progress across five starts so far with a close 5th over 1300M on January 13th her best so far when she was ridden much closer than usual. She draws well to be handy again and should be aiming for another best finish to date. (2) ECTON POWER struggled over a mile last time out but went into that race following a 3rd and a 5th. He carries a light weight with an apprentice claim and may not be far away. (1) BINGO MAN has been back to trial since his latest – when he was first-up after seven months out – and should be better today. (12) WONDERFUL SMARTY another who in this company can aim for minor money.
Selections
(9) Ace A Moca (5) Velociraptor (2) Ecton Power (1) Bingo Man
Next Best
12, 3
Fast Start
7, 8, 10, 12
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(10) SUCCESS MOCCA got his maiden win at start number two over this distance on January 8th, overcoming the widest gate to get to the front and lead every step of the way, scoring by as many lengths as he pleased. He is up in class here and draws a touch wider than ideal again, but both can be overcome, and he is the one to beat. (2) HANEUL SEUNGNI was slowly away from a wide draw on his first try at this class on January 13th. He had been on pace in all his previous starts and from a much better draw, he can get an easier run here and looks the main danger. (11) EVER STAR beat both Success Mocca and Haneul Seungni when winning at class 6 level over 1000M back on November 4th. This is her first start since and while she is done no favours by the draw, she can measure up in this company under a feather weight. (6) WORLD FLOWER is yet to win in twenty-four but has twelve top-five finishes including a last start 2nd and can be in the hunt. (7) TAEYANG EUTTEUM among other place chances.
Selections
(10) Success Mocca (2) Haneul Seungni (11) Ever Star (6) World Flower
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 10
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(9) RELEASE EDITION has been working towards a second win and comes in off a runner-up finish on January 13th over this distance in what was a phenomenally quick time, albeit on a very wet and fast track. Despite the draw, in this company he should be on or close to the pace and if he runs to his best may take some beating. (1) HAMPYEONG IS BACK made all over this distance to get his maiden win at the third time of asking on January 1300M. He come sup in class here but is well-weighted and nicely drawn and he looks to be the testing material. The form drops off precipitously after those two. (2) CHEONGMA YEONGUNG has got too far back in his three most recent outings. He does though have a runner-up finish to his name at this class when ridden closer to the pace and from a good draw and in modest company, may get an easier early run this time. (7) KING BOSS and (5) THUNDER CROWN others who may trouble the scorers at their best.
Selections
(9) Release Edition (1) Hampyeong Is Back (2) Cheongma Yeongung (7) King Boss
Next Best
5, 3
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Competitive race. (12) YEOSU FIGHTER overcame a similarly wide draw and then a slow start to run 2nd, admittedly well beaten by a good winner, at class and distance on January 29th. He will need a touch of luck at the start but if he breaks cleanly and finds a good position, he has winning claims here. (8) YEONGGWANGUI ACE is the main danger and possible favourite. He made all to get his maiden win at class 6 level over 1200M two starts back before running 5th on his first try at this level when settling midfield and running on. He comes up to this distance for the first time but can be on pace here and should be in this a long way. (10) BACKTOTHELEGEND ran 5th behind Yeosu Fighter on that January 29th race. That was his first go at this distance having won at his previous start over 1200M and he should go close again. (5) GOLDEN POINT and (1) QUALITY QUEEN are others to keep safe.
Selections
(12) Yeosu Fighter (8) Yeonggwangui Ace (10) Backtothelegend (5) Golden Point
Next Best
1, 6
Fast Start
1, 3, 8, 12
Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(2) SEUNGNIMAGIC KING won his first two races before suffering his first setback on his first try at this class and distance on January 27th when settling midfield and the being shuffled further back before running on strongly for 2nd. That experience could have benefitted him, and he is strongly favoured to return to winning ways today. (3) SEOBU BIGSTEP has mixed his form a little in five starts so far. He led over a mile last time out on what was his first try at this class but should be better today back at a distance he has won at and with a good draw and a light weight. (5) CAPTAIN GOLD is yet to finish any worse than 4th in seven appearances. He likes to race on pace and while he may once again find one or two too quick, he should be maintaining that consistent record here. (7) MENIFEE SONG beat Captain Gold when winning at class and distance on January 6th when settling midfield and running on. He comes up 3kg in the weights but warrants respect here. Up in class but down in weight (6) RUN AND GUN is one of plenty of others with at least placing chances.
Selections
(2) Seungnimagic King (3) Seobu Bigstep (5) Captain Gold (7) Menifee Song
Next Best
6, 7
Fast Start
3, 5, 10, 11
Busan Race 8: Class 4 (1800M) Special Weight B / KRW 60 Million
(5) KING GRACE doesn’t exactly win out of turn but it’s rare for him to be very far away. He enters off a close 2nd at class and distance on January 13th when settling right at the back of the field before steadily improving and almost getting there and while he comes up 1kg in the weights, he is the one to beat today. (8) MACH WONDER won back-to-back races in November and December to be rapidly promoted to this class. He then ran 5th on his first try at this level and at this distance on January 29th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He is nicely weighted here and can be competitive. (9) GEUMA INFINITE comes in off a runner-up finish over a mile at this level just two weeks ago. He is up in the weights today but still looks nicely in. (6) DEMON SPY and the up in class (10) NEW CROWN are others to keep safe.
Busan Race 9: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(7) GEUMA PASSIONATE saw his unbeaten record come to an end when 3rd behind Again Touch at class and distance on January 13th. He did though beat several of today’s rivals and while he comes up slightly in weight, he will be favoured to return to winning ways here. (6) SANGSEUNG BOY was one of those beaten in that January 13th race. He is a winner at this class over 1400M and in this company can be close to the pace and in this a long way. (1) YEONGGWANGUI STAR was 4th in that January 13th race. Two starts back he made all to win over this distance on his reappearance after eleven months out and under a light weight and from a great draw, he must be considered. (3) WINNING DANCER and (8) SPICE ECTON among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(7) Geuma Passionate (6) Sangseung Boy (1) Yeonggwangui Star (3) Winning Dancer
There is a bumper day of racing on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and six at Busan from 11:05 to 15:40. There are no Listed or Graded races but plenty of competitive action to get stuck into. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. (5) APEX did nothing on debut but significantly improved when stepped up to this trip in a similar all-filly race on January 15th, settling back before running on for 3rd in snowy conditions. She can be ridden further forward here and today can be her day. (9) KKUMUI SUNGAN was a quick 2nd on debut over 1000M before weakening having led on her first try at this distance on January 8th. She was favourite that day and with Moon Se-young remaining aboard, will probably start as the market leader here too. (3) J.Y. COCO put in a solid effort on debut to run 4th of eleven over 1200M when settling midfield and finishing off well. She should have derived benefit for that run and can match or better today. (8) AREUMDAUN SAI and the solitary debut-maker (7) BEAUTIFUL MELODY best of the rest.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with three of the twelve racing for the first time. (6) MULTI HIT looks the one to beat having shown steady improvement across three outings to date, culminating in a 3rd place last time out of January 15th when settling handy and finishing well over this distance. The time was significantly quicker than any of his rivals here have managed and he won’t really need to improve in order to win. In a race where the exposed form is so patchy, any first-timer who trialled well needs to be given a chance. (4) JORDAN FIGHTING fits the bill having run 3rd in his heat in a good time, showing close to the place. He draws well and the favourite aside, couldn’t pick a softer race to debut in. (3) HANEUL BULPAE beat a couple of these on his way to a fair 6th on debut on January 8th, having been very slowly away and last until the final furlong when he started to make up good ground. That puts him in the frame here. (11) JEONGMUN SPECTER and first-timer (1) OK DREAM, who led a trial, others to keep safe.
Selections
(6) Multi Hit (4) Jordan Fighting (3) Haneul Bulpae (11) Jeongmun Specter
Next Best
1, 7
Fast Start
1, 6, 9, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. There are two standouts both of who will need to be forgiven slightly lacklustre latest outings. (11) MAESTRA finished in 3rd place on both her first two starts, both at 1000M She was favourite for her first try at this distance on December 18th and she led until weakening for 6th. She should have come on for that experience and can get it right today. (4) HANGANG POWER stepped up to 1300M on his last start on January 7th, racing in midfield throughout and finishing 6th. Going on his previous 3rd place over 1000M though suggests he has a bit of speed about him and he too gets another chance today. (6) MY ONE improved at start number three running 4th over this distance and stopping the clock in a good time. A repeat will put him in the mix here (3) HALLSTATT and (9) SEONGEUN CROWN among others to consider.
Selections
(11) Maestra (4) Hangang Power (6) My One (3) Hallstatt
Next Best
9, 12
Fast Start
7, 10, 11, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(3) JEOLDAE BOSS gets the nod here having been knocking on the door across his four starts so far. His latest, on January 13th, was his best so far when he settled midfield and steadily improved up to 2nd on the line having overcome a wide draw. That was over 1300M and there is no reason why the additional half furlong can’t suit. (7) CHONGAL CHARM put in a good showing when on pace over 1300M on December 11th and finishing a close 2nd. The same apprentice keeps the weight light, and he can put in a bold showing again. (8) TOP FRIEND came from well off the pace to run 2nd over 1300M on January 13th. He has got a long way back in each of his starts so far, but the additional half-furlong today may be to his benefit. (4) POWER RIDE and (9) SAEKDAL FIGHTER among others in the hunt.
Selections
(3) Jeoldae Boss (7) Chongal Charm (8) Top Friend (4) Power Ride
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
2, 3, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Not a strong maiden so we can accept (11) MIR POINT’s 5th place on Christmas Eve when he used up plenty of petrol coming out of the widest gate and getting to the speed. The time before he had run 2nd over 1000M. The draw is not ideal again but against this opposition, with a touch of luck at the start, he can win. (4) CUPID WOW has a 3rd place to his name over this distance. He draws well to be on pace here and he should be in this a long way. (12) GOLDEN LUCKY will need a line drawn through her latest over 1300M when knocking up very quickly and only beating two. If we go on her start prior to that though, she ran a good 2nd at this distance and she can be given another chance here. (9) DONGTEUJA WAY and (7) HIGH BORN ME others who can compete for the minor money.
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 12 races from 10:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Moon Se-young is back from suspension on Saturday: Pic: KRA
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens get proceedings under way with five of the twelve racing for the first time. Unusually we’ll take a chance on a first timer and (8) AUSTIN LEADER. He showed well in his trial when handy and running though the line well in a fast time on an admittedly wet track. 1200M can suit first up and if he brings that trial form to the races, he has every chance of a win on debut. Trials don’t always translate to the real thing though as was the case with (1) BULGEUN POKPUNG who barely scraped through qualifying after a strong of slow efforts. That led to him being sent off the longest but one shot on the board on debut on December 17th, but he defied that to come from off the pace for 3rd. The step up in trip should suit and a similar effort will see him in the finish. (2) MAGUMA has a 2nd place at this distance in a good time. Draw a line through his latest at 1300M when drawn widest because he gets a much better gate this time and comes down in weight. Returning to the debut makers and (7) K N GOLDEN KING and (9) YEONGWON FIGHTER look next best.
Selections
(8) Austin Leader (1) Bulgeun Pokpung (2) Maguma (7) K N Golden King
Next Best
9, 3
Fast Start
8, 9, 10, 12
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies. (11) RAON EMPIRE has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far most recently over this distance on Christmas Day when handy and running on. She has a strong finish so the wide draw may not be a hindrance and while she has twice been a beaten favourite, it could be third time lucky here. (5) PEERLESS is the main danger. She has finished 3rd in both starts so far with the latest being at this distance on January 14th in a tight finish. It was a good time and from a good draw she can sit behind the speed and run on strong. Those two look a cut above the rest with (9) DAERYUN SIDAE the clear next best. That’s based on her latest effort on January 15th when stepped up to this trip for the first time and settling back and running on for 4th. (4) HERO GANGJA and (7) SKY TEN others who can potentially improve.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens and it’s hard to look past (8) DAEWANG SOCKS. After a midfield finish on debut over 1000M when slowly away and running on he was on pace at start number two over this distance on Christmas Eve, having overcome the widest gate, and ultimately finished a very close 2nd to the favourite. Although he draws wide again, the smaller field should enable him to get an easier run and he will be difficult to get past. (9) GEUMBIT CHEONHA has shown progress over four starts so far with his best finish being his most recent when 3rd over 1300M on January 14th having settled back from a wide draw. He comes down slightly in the weights here and will be running on strongly again. (3) CHOEGANG HYEONMA is another seemingly on the right trajectory having improved on his second outing on January 8th, settling midfield and running on for 3rd, ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He can aim to match or better that here. (7) SECRET WANGJA and (4) TUAREG NINE others who can enter the calculations.
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(4) MAGLE DAY was an improved 2nd at start number three over this distance on January 14th when handy to the lead and then running on well stopping the clock in a fast time. He draws well to be on or close to the pace again today and won’t need to improve much here in order to win. (8) RAON THE CHARLIE enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at 1200M and 1300M having settled back and run on both times. He has the fastest finish of all of these and will be coming home strong again here. (6) EFFEL TAP should be on pace from a good draw. Moon Se-young rode him on his best finish to date when 3rd at 1200M last October and he can go well in this company from the front. (5) THUNDER BRAVO is rarely too far away and comes up to this trip for the first time. (7) DONGBANG SAGI another in the frame.
Selections
(4) Magle Day (8) Raon The Charlie (6) Effel Tap (5) Thunder Bravo
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 7
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(1) STRENGTH made all to get his maiden win at start number three over 1200M on January 14th, winning by as many as he pleased. It was an eye-catching performance and while he is up in class and slightly in trip today, he draws the same inside gate and it would be no surprise were he to repeat. (4) RAON AMERICAN is winless in five outings but got promoted to this class with a pair of runner-up finishes. He measured up well on his first try at this level when 4th over 1200M on January 15th and under a light weight again looks firmly in this. Another yet to win, in her case from eleven attempts, is (3) MORNING PEARL. She is very consistent though and has a 2nd and two 3rd place finishes among her latest four outings all at this class. She tends to settle back and run on, and it would be a surprise if she didn’t run into a place again here. (10) DESIRE TO WIN is another up in class following a maiden score, which came over 1400M on January 15th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can be competitive. (9) SUNGAN TOUCH another in at least the placing frame.
Horse Racing in Korea 