Month: September 2024

Ilgan Sports Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 29)

Sunday sees 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00, while at Busan there are 6 races from 11:25 to 16:05. The feature race is at Seoul in the shape of the Listed Ilgan Sports Trophy. Busan, meanwhile, will host a retirement ceremony for the first horse to win the Grand Slam of Group 1 races in Korea, Winner’s Man.

Winner’s Man will be honoured with a retirement ceremony at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener, with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. For the top choice we’ll side with experience and (9) GEOSEN GANGHO who debuted over 1000M on August 4th and raced on pace to finish 2nd, ahead of a couple of the others here, who also made their debuts. He finished off very nicely and can be expected to improve here. Among the debut-makers, the standout is (8) COMPLETE TOUGH. He won his trial in mid-August, racing handy before striking the front in the final furlong and running on pleasingly. If he brings that form to the races, he will have every chance. They will be most people’s top two but (6) HEUNGHAENG DOLPUNG looked competent enough when qualifying in the second of two trials and could put in a good showing. (4) RAON ECLIPSE and (11) CHALLAHANYEONGUNG both hinted at ability on their respective debuts, the latter behind Geosen Gangho, and can improve.

Selections(9) Geosen Gangho (8) Complete Tough (6) Heunghaeng Dolpung (4) Raon Eclipse
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and it is very competitive. (8) DAESEUNGMA comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes, most recently at this distance on August 17th when she led for much of the way around. She should be on pace again and this time can go all the way. The most experienced in the race is (5) KYLIE. That’s not necessarily a good thing in a maiden, but going on her 2nd place two starts back, she should be firmly in this. (1) ECO WORLD enters off a spin around in the Rookie Stakes and while she only beat one home, her time was fair, and she had shown enough ability to be given her chance there. This is far more amenable company. (2) ARCH DAY was 3rd on debut and should have come on for the run while (10) DIA ROOK is another coming in off a last start placing and can be considered.

Selections(8) Daeseungma (5) Kylie (1) Eco World (2) Arch Day
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with ten of the twelve racing for the first time. (6) CRUELLA was slow on debut in June finishing last of eight, but she has since been through two trials on July 20th and August 17th, posting quick times in both and finishing 2nd (albeit well back behind an experienced horse) in the latter. She has as good a chance as any here. (1) B.K MAGIC led for most of her trial, ultimately crossing the line in 3rd. She draws nicely to lead again here and can be in this a long way. (9) WORLD TAEYANG was slow away on debut over 1000M on September 6th but did run on pleasingly enough. She should have benefitted from the experience and the additional furlong may suit. (4) DOLPHIN KICK and (8) NAMYANG RUBY other first timers who hinted at ability in their respective trials.

Selections(6) Cruella (1) B.K Magic (9) World Taeyang (4) Dolphin Kick
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden. (11) SPLENDID was slow away on debut before finishing 6th and was then an improved 4th at start number two at this distance on August 24th, settling midfield and running on. The wide draw shouldn’t pose too many problems and third up, he can win here. (10) ELDORADO HEUNGBU is also third-up, having improved significantly when 3rd at this distance on August 31st. Both times he has settled right back before running on and he can be a danger late. (6) SOFT POWER came from off the pace to run 2nd at this trip on August 24th on what was her fifth career start. She has since been back to trial, in which she performed fairly, and can be a danger here. Those three have all come from behind in their races so if you prefer a front-runner, (5) CHRYSOL MAJOR may be the one from a good gate. (4) EAGLE WINGS the best of the rest.

Selections(11) Splendid (10) Eldorado Heungbu (6) Soft Power (5) Chrysol Major
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) PEACE BE WITH YOU has raced three times so far with her best being her latest when 3rd over 1300M on August 16th having settled midfield and run on well. She draws nicely, the step up to the mile should suit, and she shapes as the one to beat. (8) GOLDEN NICE came from well off the pace to run 3rd over 1400M on August 30th. That equaled her best finish in nine starts and while she only managed 5th on her previous try at this distance, she is ready for another shot here. (9) HI LEGEND enters off a 2nd place at 1200M on August 25th. The distance is the question here but Tanaka getting on offers some cause for optimism. (4) DREAMING BOY has a 3rd place and the quickest time among these for a mile and that’s enough to put him in the mix. (10) HEUIMANG YEOSIN another in the hunt.

Selections(3) Peace Be With You (8) Golden Nice (9) Hi Legend (4) Dreaming Boy
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 28)

Racing returns to Seoul on Saturday with a daytime meeting of 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Eunpa Sarang, the Derby winner, will be in action at Seoul – though on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but one racing for the first time.  (10) MIGHTY AMI trialed up in July and while she finished ten-lengths behind the experience Sinui Yeoje, she posted a good time and showed some maturity at the head of the chasing pack. Moon Se-young rides and she has as good a chance as any. On trials, (4) ELDORADO PARTY is the logical danger. She led for most of her heat and was only passed late to finish 2nd in a good time. She draws well to be on pace and can be in this a long way. She may well start the betting favourite. (2) GWACHEON QUEEN steadily improved across three trials with the best being her latest on August 29th when 3rd. She too draws well to sit on speed or handy and can go close. The sole one with experience is (7) RAON THE KEISHA, who only managed 6th of nine on debut but should have derived some benefit from real competition. Returning to the debut makers, (8) GEUMBIT RUNNER posted the next quickest trial time.

Selections(10) Mighty Ami (4) Eldorado Party (2) Gwacheon Queen (7) Raon The Keisha
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. There is some useful experience here though, and (12) DUSON OPEN shapes as the favourite. She debuted over 1000M on August 25 leading for most of the way around before having to settle for 2nd in a good time. She should have come on for the run and while she has the challenge of the widest gate, she won’t need to find much to win this. (2) TAEPYEONG LEGEND is the only one in the field who has raced twice. After a fair debut, he improved to a close 3rd in a good time at this distance on August 17th. From a great draw, he will be on pace, and he has every chance. Turning to the first timers, (3) REMEMBER AGAIN went through three trials, improving each time, most recently with a close 4th place in a good time on September 12th. 1200M can suit first up. (1) ONE PUNCH DRAGON took two goes to qualify but looked competent in his second attempt on July 25th, coming from off the pace and posting a good time. If he brings that form to the races, he will be in the mix. (6) SMART MUSIC, 5th on debut was a long way behind the winner, but previously won a trial, and may have a say.

Selections(12) Duson Open (2) Taepyeong Legend (3) Remember Again (1) One Punch Dragon
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Class 4 but for juveniles so we have a field of imports with ten of the twelve racing for the first time. The two experienced ones showed ability, and they go on top. (10) KONGNAMUL ran 4th over 1200M on August 18th, racing handy throughout and clocking a good time. He should have come on for the run and Moon Se-young stays on. (12) WORLD PEOPLE made his debut at 1000M on September 1st, showing on pace and briefly leading late on before finishing 4th. He too should have derived benefit from that and with some natural improvement can have an edge over the debut-makers. As for those, (4) FINAL K looked the best in trials. He was a well beaten 2nd but that was behind only Ultra Galaxy, a five-time winner. He ran on well and can be a threat. (7) ELDORADO HAENAM won his heat and, along with (2) PRIME CROWN, is another first-time starter to keep safe.

Selections(10) Kongnamul (12) World People (4) Final K (7) Eldorado Haenam
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start2, 8, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Standard maiden. (4) K POWERFUL has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over 1300M on September 1st, when stalking the lead throughout. From a better gate he can be expected to lead, or at least be very close to the lead, and he can go one better today. (1) BEST KINGDOM returned from seven months out to run a fair 5th over this distance on August 18th. He should strip fitter for that run, and he has a smart finish on him. (8) MEGA STEP comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at 1200M. She has come from off the pace to do her best work late in all three of her starts so far, and it is possible that the step up in trip can be in her favour today. (7) ARNOLD QUEEN and (9) SAVANA CHARLIE other place chances.

Selections(4) K Powerful (1) Best Kingdom (8) Mega Step (7) Arnold Queen
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) YONGBI TAEYANG did nothing on debut but was a much-improved 2nd at start number two on August 24th, when coming from off the pace and beating a couple of these over this distance. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here, and he will start as a warm favourite. (3) BEAT DOKKAEBI is the clear second pick. She too was ordinary on debut but perked up at start two on August 25th when ridden handier and running on for 3rd place. Both her outings have been over 1000M, and she may welcome the step up in trip today. (5) KING WARRIOR debuted behind Yongbi Taeyang in that August 24th race and while he ultimately weakened, he did lead for the middle part. He should have derived benefit from that experience and can stick around a bit longer this time. (1) LEGEND TANSAENG is the best of the rest before the form drops off precipitously. Perhaps (2) YONGAM KANTHAKA can improve having at least hinted at ability in a trial prior to debut.

(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 27)

After a very short hiatus, racing returns this weekend and the action kicks off on Friday with a daytime meeting at Busan and 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but one of the twelve racing for the first time. Though others went quicker in their heats, (1) MOTHER CHUKJE winning hers, and in fine fashion, puts her on top. She sat handily before running on the cross the line a fair margin to the good and if she brings that form to the races, can be hard to beat. (11) COWBOY MAN went through three trials, most recently looking good when leading for much of the way on August 31st, coming home for 2nd in a good time. If he continues to improve the way he did across those heats, he will be close. (6) PARU and (7) FLY TO THE MOON are the two that went quicker than Mother Chukje in their trials. That was on a weekend when the track was very fast, but they can both be given a chance first up. (9) SWORD MASTER is from a stable that can never be dismissed at the first time of asking.

Selections(1) Mother Chukje (11) Cowboy Man (6) Paru (7) Fly To The Moon
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start7, 9, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maiden fillies here. (9) BLACK WAVE has been making steady progress across her six starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at this distance on September 6th when she led for much of the way. Tanaka climbs on here and she is a big chance to go one better. There are three newcomers and among them, (1) PARANG ENERGY presents as a big danger. She went through two trials, posting good times in both and looking much more race ready in the second of those. She draws nicely to be on-pace and if she continues on the positive trajectory she has shown, she has every chance. Both (4) NEW LEADER and (6) TEAM SURPRISE have mixed their form, but both have a runner-up finish on their resume and both can be in the mix here. (8) MORE AND MORE another in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Black Wave (1) Parang Energy (4) New Leader (6) Team Surprise
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 11

Busan Race 3:  Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Standard maiden. After being slow away and doing nothing on debut, (10) FLYING CHAMPION was much improved at start number two on August 23rd when handy throughout. The step up in trip can suit and third-up, she can be peaking here. The unkindly named (5) FAT BOY also enters off a runner-up finish, in his case over 1300M on September 1st when settling right back and running on. He does his best work late and is another who can thrive over the slightly extended trip. Those two will fill out most quinella tickets but (1) UNJU CHALLENGE showed promise on debut. He only beat a couple home, but it was a quick race on a fast track and with some natural improvement, should be at least a place chance here. (7) WIND KINGDOM and (2) RIGHT CHAMP others to consider for the minors.

Selections(10) Flying Champion (5) Fat Boy (1) Unju Challenge (7) Wind Kingdom
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 7

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Decent race for the level. (10) BEOLMAUI ACE got his maiden win back in July with a comprehensive score in a quick time over 1300M. In two tries at this class, he has a 3rd over 1400M and a 2nd over 1200M, both in a quick time but in contrasting styles. He carries his fair share of weight here but has every chance of winning. (3) YEONGGWANGUIFIRST enters with a similar record having registered his maiden victory three starts back before running 3rd and 2nd in two tries at this class, both at 1200M. He comes up to the 1400M for the first time, but he has shown he can run on, and he can be a danger here. (11) LEMON TREE was a winner on debut over 1000M on July 12th, leading all the way, before running 5th when sent off as favourite on his first try at this class over 1200M on August 25th. He remains under a light weight and up in trip again, can be given another chance. (4) WONDERFUL BIDDER and (1) ANOTHER ONE others to consider.

Selections(10) Beolmaui Ace (3) Yeonggwanguifirst (11) Lemon Tree (4) Wonderful Bidder
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 15)

The last meetings before the short Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) break are daytime Sunday meetings at Seoul (10 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (7 races from 11:25 to 17:00). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with four of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though, and (6) GLOBAL TIME. After a good trial, he was well supported on debut on August 3rd, when he settled back and ran on for 3rd place. He should have come on for that run and win here. That will mean overturning the form on (3) YEONHUI HERO. HE debuted in that same August 3rd race and showed on the pace, briefly leading in the closing stages before finishing a very good 2nd. He will be in the mix again. (8) ANYANG GIPPEUM was an improved2nd at start number two on August 17th only going down very narrowly, while (1) STING JET ran 4th on his racecourse debut on July 28th, running on well. Both can be considered in this company. Among the first timers, (2) MUNHAK BOY looked the best in trials. He went through two of them, improving in the second, just last week.

Selections(6) Global Time (3) Yeonhui Hero (8) Anyang Gippeum (1) Sting Jet
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) HANGANG FASHIONED was ordinary on debut in July but was an improved 4th at start number two on August 24th when leading for much of the way around. She draws nicely to lead again and third-up she can be peaking fitness-wise. The danger is (8) YEONGWON FANTASTIC. has made steady progress across his three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place over 1300M on August 3rd when racing handy throughout. Expect him to be on the speed here and to be in this a long way. (1) BREEDO TROPHY has hinted at ability over three outings to date. He and (5) ORANGE TIME have posted the quickest times among these for the distance and will be expected to post career best to date finishes here. (11) NAMSAN MINAM should have come on for his debut a month ago and is another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Hangang Fashioned (8) Yeongwon Fantastic (1) Breedo Trophy (5) Orange Time
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens in the Busan opener with five of the ten racing for the first time. (5) POWER WAGON ran a solid 3rd place on debut on August 23rd, well beaten by a good winner but showing plenty of promise.  He can get to the lead here and he may take some catching. (7) CHOGYEOKCHA debuted over 1000M on July 12th and came from off the pace to run 4th in what was a quick race. He should have benefited from that experience and after nine weeks off, can go better over an additional furlong. Among the debut makers, (9) ARION KING CAR is the standout. After a slightly slow start in his trial, he was ridden up to the speed and ran on for 2nd place in a quick time. If he brings that form to the races, he will be a danger. So too (6) GRAND CRU. Though slightly slower in his heat, he showed on the pace and can put in a bold effort here. (8) BEOLMA WINNER is another who went well in his trial and can be given a chance first-up.

Selections(5) Power Wagon (7) Chogyeokcha (9) Arion King Car (6) Grand Cru
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) MAGIC IMPACT will be the hot favourite here. She has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1300M on August 25th. She comes up to two turns for the first time, and she has the challenge of the widest gate, but she should have too much for this set of opponents. (9) RAON HIT MAN is probably the most credible danger. She came from well off the pace to run 4th over 1400M pm August 18th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She does her best work late and the step up to 1700M may suit. (10) GOLD CHARM and (4) MARUBYEOL come in having run 3rd and 5th respectively when they raced each other over this distance on September 1st and they both make a quick return with good chances to match or better those finishes. (7) GANGCHEOL BUDAE another in the minor money picture.  

Selections(11) Magic Impact (9) Raon Hit Man (10) Gold Charm (4) Marubyeol
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (10) NEW LEADER has a 2nd and a pair of 4th places among five starts so far. She’s posted good times over this distance, Munro knows her well, and today can be her day. She has been beaten by a couple of these already though. They include (7) BACK TO THE LADY who was 2nd to New Leader’s 4th in July. She comes in off a 4th place finish over 1300M and steps up to this distance for the first time with claims to go close. (4) ROSE DRAGON enters having run a best to date 2nd at this distance on August 23rd and can be in the mix again. (5) SIMON STAR and (2) HAEUNDAE SUNHSINE among plenty of other chances in a competitive affair.

Selections(10) New Leader (7) Back To The Lady (5) Simon Star (2) Haeundae Sunshine
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start2, 7, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(6) MAGIC PRINCE got his maiden win three starts back over 1400M and has since recorded a 2nd and a 4th in two starts at this class, both at this distance and he has never finished outside the top five. He carries his fair share of weight as a result, but he is tactically versatile and could have too much for this lot. (7) CHEONJANGSA has proven he can measure up at this class with two 5th places and a 4th in three attempts since getting his maiden win. He comes up to two turns for the first time and it may well suit. (5) DANGCHAN DAEBO returns to action for the first time since March when he ran 2nd at this class and distance. He didn’t offer many clues in an August trial, but he couldn’t have wished for a more comfortable race to return. The form falls off considerably after those three, with (2) YONGBI POWER and (4) LEGEND TAP probably the next best in the market.  

Selections(6) Magic Prince (7) Cheonjangsa (5) Dangchan Daebo (2) Yongbi Power
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

The only juvenile in the race, (6) WONDERFUL GROOM enters having scored his maiden win at start number three over this distance on August 2nd when he led every step of the way and won very comfortably. He is up in class, but the manner of that victory suggests there is plenty more to come. (3) VALHALLA comes in having won at class and distance on August 18th, leading all the way and with two of today’s rivals chasing him home in 2nd and 3rd.  He comes up 3kg in weight, but he draws well, and he can be a danger again. (10) SAENAE HIT was 2nd in that race. She remains a maiden but has now placed in each of her latest three, all at this class, and she will be close. (7) TROPHY WARE is up in class after a first-up win in a quick time on August 11th and can measure up. (5) ALICE MARINE another in at least the placing frame.

Selections(6) Wonderful Groom (3) Valhalla (10) Saenae Hit (7) Trophy Ware
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 14)

The short night race season comes to a close on Saturday (there are, of course, daytime meetings on Sunday) with an 11-race card at Seoul from 14:20 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Twelve unraced two-year-olds line up for the first time so we head to the trial videos. It won’t take long to alight on (9) AQUA LINE, who posted the fastest time among these by some margin when narrowly winning his heat on August 1st. He has the challenge of a wide draw, but any kind of progress from the trial can see him win. Second quickest was (10) RAON NIZHINSKII. He too was on pace in his heat and crossed the line 3rd in a fair time. (3) EAST GANGJEOK was similarly 3rd in his trial, a long way behind an experienced winner and showed enough to be considered first-up. (8) GLOBAL SERVE and (5) HAKSAN CAIRO are others who hinted at ability.

Selections(9) Aqua Line (10) Raon Nizhinskii (3) East Gangjeok (8) Global Serve
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1. 3. 4. 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile filly maidens here with five of the eleven racing for the first time. The favourite has experience though with (7) HANSEN BRACING having already raced twice, with a 4th and a 3rd, the latter over this distance on August 24th when settling just behind the speed and running on well in a good time. Third-up she can be fitter, and she will be a short-price to win. (3) HIGH CLASS ran a fair 3rd on debut over 1000M on July 25th. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can be a danger here. Of the first timers, (6) SMART TAKE looks the pick. She was much improved in her second trial on August 22nd, settling handy and finishing off well for 2nd having drawn a wide gate. She won’t need to improve much on that to have a chance here. With the rest of the newcomers not having shown much in trials, (11) QUEEN DIA and (8) BLUSHING ROSE may improve on their debuts. Incidentally none of these have shown any gate speed in races or trials, so the pace map may be a headache and any horse that takes the initiative may have a chance.

Selections(7) Hansen Bracing (3) High Class (6) Smart Take (11) Queen Dia
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported juvenile maidens here (with one southern hemisphere three-year-old). Two of them have raced before and one of those, (7) A PURE GOOD WOMAN, is the pick. Having trialed well, she ran 3rd on debut in a very quick race over 1000M on July 13th, showing on pace. She should have benefited from that experience, the additional furlong can help, and she is the one to beat. A few debut-makers caught the eye in trials. (11) MIGHTY NEO won his, leading all the way and stopping the clock in a good time. The draw isn’t ideal here but with a bit of early luck, he can be in this. (3) PEPPER X similarly led all the way to win narrowly in his second trial (it was voluntary so be aware it may not be in all racecards – the time was 62 seconds). He has no problems in terms of his draw, and he is a chance. (12) BREEDO SIRIS, who was quicker than both, and (4) GWANAKSAN O TWO are others who can go well first-up.  

Selections(7) A Pure Good Woman (11) Mighty Neo (3) Pepper X (12) Breedo Siris
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start3, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Standard maiden here. (1) DANGDAECHOWOL has run 4th in both starts so far at this distance and at 1200M. He draws well, he has the fastest final furlong average time (albeit from the smallest sample size) and he can win here. The danger is (4) MAX PARTY. He two has a pair of 4th places on his record with one of them coming at this distance. In this company, he should be on or close to the speed and he can be in this a long way. (6) JILPUNG JAZZ has managed 3rd place at this distance. He doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim this time but that’s balanced by Kim Yong-geun climbing on and he can match or better that here. (5) POETIC NUBI and (3) YEONGWON GIANT others to consider.

Selections(1) Dangdaechowol (4) Max Party (6) Jilpung Jazz (5) Poetic Nubi
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) OKCHEON WIN STAR was 3rd on debut and followed up with a fair 5th over this distance on August 17th when settling midfield and running on. Third-up she can be peaking and with similar tactics today, could prove too strong late on. (5) SINUI BLUE is a twelve-race maiden but enters off back-to-back 3rd places, most recently over 1300M on August 3rd when settling midfield before finishing off well and beating a couple of today’s rivals. She looks nicely in here and Maia climbing on is a plus. (1) JOSE has finished behind Okcheon Win Star in both his latest two but his 2nd place on debut suggests he has ability and, in this company, he can be considered for the places. (9) MISS CONCORD and (3) MERIT SUNSHINE others in contention for the minors.

(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 13)

It’s the final weekend of evening racing and things kick off at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 15:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but one of the eleven racing for the first time. (10) RACE MAN led every step of the way in his trial, stopping the clock in a time quicker than any of the rest have managed. He draws a touch wider than ideal but if he brings that form to the races, he goes very close. (8) GOOGLE CAR wasn’t ready when trialing in May, but was much improved at the end of June, winning his heat with a front-running effort. It has taken him a while to get to the races, but he can be backed first-up. (3) WORLD HIT sat handy in his trial, running on for 3rd in a fair time and should be there or thereabouts. The solitary run with experience is (4) CHEONGWAN. Well back on debut he has since been back to trial and he could improve second-up. (2) DOCTOR CITY another who hinted at ability in the morning.

Selections(10) Race Man (8) Google Car (3) World Hit (4) Cheongwan
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) ROAD TO FIGHTER has finished 3rd in both starts so far over 1000M and at this distance when settling back before racing handy. Third-up he can be peaking, and he can win. Disputing favourite status will be (9) NAMHAE YEOGEOL. She did nothing in two outings around the turn of the year but since returning from six months out, she has looked a different horse with a 3rd and a 2nd, both at this distance and most recently in a quick time on August 11th. She likes to race on-pace, and they might not get by her. (5) DREAMMA ran 4th in that August 11th race. She also has a 3rd place on her resume, and she should be in the mix again here. (3) GALLOP QUEEN and (10) B.K. MARON others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Road To Fighter (9) Namhae Yeogeol (5) Dreamma (3) Gallop Queen
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) PINOT POWER enters off a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, most recently when leading for much of the way over 140M on August 10th and beating a couple of today’s rivals. Ueda Masashi stays on, the step up to a mile can suit, and the corks can be popping today. Competitive race, though. (4) MAKE IT BETTER enters off an improved 3rd over 1300M at start number two on August 11th when racing just behind the speed. In this company and from a great draw, he can be on-pace and should be in this a long way. (10) USANG RYUNG is one of just four who have tackled the mile before which he did when 2nd on August 3rd. That was his best start to date, and he can build on that here. (3) CHEONGMAUI JILJU and (6) WILD DIXIE others firmly in the hunt.

Selections(5) Pinot Power (4) Make It Better (10) Usang Ryung (3) Cheongmaui Jilju
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 11

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

(7) YOUR TURN is a winner of three from four so far with her latest coming at this class and distance on August 10th when leading all the way and stopping the clock in a time almost two seconds faster than anything else here has achieved for the mile (the track admittedly being very fast that day). She comes up 2.5kg but has won under this weight already, and she can win again. (9) ONEULISUNGAN comes in on a three-race winning streak, most recently at this class over 1400M on July 7th when sitting behind the speed and running on. He comes up a full 5kg in the weights but given his running style, the step up to a mile can suit and a four-timer isn’t impossible. (1) SEKWANG CHOEGANG is yet to win in eleven attempts but comes in following a 3rd place in a very quick time over 1300M on August 11th. She comes up to the mile for the first time and can be competitive. (2) MORPHEUS and (10) META PRINCESS among plenty of other money hopes.

Selections(7) Your Turn (9) Oneulisungan (1) Sekwang Choegang (2) Morpheus
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(more…)

OBS Korea Cup 2024 – Form Comments
Crown Pride

OBS KOREA CUP (1800M) G3

Seoul Racecourse – Sunday September 8, 2024

Form Comments

1. WINNER’S MAN – He won this race in 2022 when the Japanese challenge wasn’t as strong and was 3rd last year but he hasn’t raced since successfully defending the Grand Prix Stakes in December due to a fracture requiring surgery. He has been back in work since June and looked well in an August trial. A very hard ask first-up but is of top quality.

2. GLOBAL HIT – In Winner’s Man’s absence earlier, last year’s Korean Derby winner established himself as Korea’s top horse with three Group race wins from four starts so far this campaign, most recently the KRA Cup Classic over 2000M here in early August. Generally sits midfield and runs on, he is the best local hope.

3. VICS GO – Dropped back to a sprint distance and won a Listed race back in February but has been in indifferent form since. Likes to be on or close to the pace and he has won at up to 2000M, but his recent efforts make him hard to have here.

4. LIGHT WARRIOR – A nine-time winner, most recently at Listed level over 2000M at Kawasaki in April. Most recently was 6th in the Teio Sho at Oi in June so he does have form to overturn on Wilso Tesoro He is an on-pace runner so draws very nicely and can be expected to get to the front and can be in this a long way.

5. SUCCESS MACHO – Just like Winner’s Man, Success Macho is racing for the first time since the Grand Prix Stakes last December when he ran 3rd and subsequently sustained a chip fracture. He is a G3 winner, and he looked good in an August trial. He is tactically versatile, having raced well when forward and when closing and while this is hard, he can be in the mix.

6. HEUK JEONSA – Well back in his last Group outing in the Busan Mayor’s Cup in May, he gets his chance here having run a solid 3rd in a class 1 handicap over this distance in August when he led for much of the way. At the risk of stating the obvious, this is a whole lot harder.

7. SIMJANGUI GODONG – He had an unsuccessful trip to Dubai, but he bounced back well with his best in four starts since returning 2nd place in the G3 Busan Owners’ Cup over a mile in June. He has a strong finish, and he will be running on. He was 10th in this race last year.

(more…)

OBS Korea Sprint 2024 – Form Comments
Remake is the defending champion

OBS KOREA SPRINT (1200M) G3

Seoul Racecourse – September 8, 2024

Form Comments

1.  YES PERFECT – He has only raced twice this year and was well beaten in both in G3 and G2 company. This is his first start since May and while he still has a high rating as a result of earlier exploits, he is hard to recommend here, despite the inside gate.

2. KEIAI DORIE – NON-RUNNER.

3. SOMETHING LOST – Beaten a neck by Raon The Point in the Busan Ilbo Sprint over this distance in March, and followed up with a 3rd and a 4th in two subsequent sprint efforts in Group company. Draw a line though his latest at a mile. Likes to settle handy and run on but a minor money chance at best.

4. BLACK MUSK – A Group winner at this distance two years ago, he has struggled to reach those heights again. Returned in August following five months out but had a hard time over 1800M. His form before the layoff wasn’t great either and he will be an outsider here. At this best, he comes from off the pace.

5. MORFHIS – The grand old galloper of Korean racing, he won the SBS Sports Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) in both 2020 and 2022. While he hasn’t tasted victory since the latter of those, he can still mix it with the best on his day as shown with his 3rd place behind Ssonsal and Eoma Eoma in the SROA Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G2) in May. He settles back and comes off the pace and was most recently 2nd in a class 1 race on August 4th.

6. EOMA EOMA – Won this race in 2022 beating Japan’s Raptus who while good, is no Remake. He has raced four times in 2024, all in Group company and has placed in three of them including last time out when tried at a mile for the first time in the Busan Owners’ Cup. He may not be quite as quick as he once was, but he won’t be far away. Place chance.

7. REMAKE – The defending champion has maintained his form in three starts since triumphing in last year’s race, most notably winning the G3 Riyadh Dirt Sprint on the Saudi Cup undercard in February, when he came from behind to run the field down, before finishing 4th in the G1 Golden Shaheen on Dubai World Cup night. It’s his first start since March, but the Seoul Racecourse track record holder for the 1200M will take some stopping. Yuga Kawada will be up.

(more…)

OBS Korea Cup & Korea Sprint Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 8)

It’s Korea Cup and Sprint Day at Seoul on Sunday – we’ll post the full form comments for both races soon but in the meantime here is the race-by-race for both Seoul (9 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (7 races from 11:00 to 17:05). There is free entry to both tracks:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but two racing for the first time. One of those debut makers will be the short price favourite in the shape of (6) HAKSAN CLEAR. The South Beach filly went through two trials, finishing a fair 3rd in the first of them but then leading all the way to win the second in a quick time on August 1st (that trial was voluntary so may not appear in all racecards). If she brings that form to the races, she will be hard to beat. It isn’t a strong set of rivals. (3) GEOLJAK HAPPY ran 6th on debut over 1000M on August 4th having also performed adequately in a trial. With some natural improvement, she is the clear second pick. We are struggling after that. (7) GEOSEN POKJU and (2) NONSTOP SERVE weren’t horrible in their trials and may make an impact first up. (9) BLUE DRAGON improved in the second of two heats.

Selections(6) Haksan Clear (3) Geoljak Happy (7) Geosen Pokju (2) Nonstop Serve
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (5) DOCTOR CURLIN. After a fair trial, she put in a fair debut, coming from the widest gate to sit handy and run on for 5th over 1000M. She should have come on for that run, she draws better, and the additional furlong can suit. The modestly named (2) ALL TIME LEGEND was very quick in a trial, stopping the clock on 61.9 seconds and finishing 5th behind a couple of experienced horses. The track was racing very fast that weekend, but he certainly showed enough to be take seriously first up. (4) BLUE THUNDER won a trial the same day (August 9th) albeit in a slower time. He led all the way and will seek to do the same here. (9) BLACK SPEED and (1) DIA X are other experienced ones who can improve.

Selections(5) Doctor Curlin (2) All Time Legend (4) Blue Thunder (9) Black Speed
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. (11) MAGIC SOUND has raced eight times previously, with five top five finishes and he comes in off his best when runner-up over 1200M on July 7th racing handy. He has the challenge of the widest gate, but he won’t need to improve much, if at all on that run, and he will be a short price to score. (1) HIGHEST TIME beat a couple of these on his way to his best finish so far on August 4th when 4th over this distance, coming from well off the pace. In this company and from the inside gate, he can be ridden closer to the pace and can get closer than 4th this time. Among the debut makers, (9) PROMISE showed promise in the last of three trials, running 3rd in a decent time. That bodes well here. (3) CANVASEN GO and (5) AMENO other experienced ones who can compete for the minors.

Selections(11) Magic Sound (1) Highest Time (9) Promise (3) Canvasen Go
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) CHEONHA GEONGANG took a few goes to work things out but since returning from a five-month absence, she has picked up a 2nd and a 3rd from her two starts back, both at this distance and in quick times. She draws nicely to be on pace, and third up she can be peaking fitness wise. (11) HOLY RUN has finished 4th in both his outings so far, both at this distance. He has done it in contrasting styles, first on pace and then coming from behind so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and third-up he too can be getting better. Also third-up is (8) ROAD TO WIN. She was 3rd on debut behind Cheonha Geongang and then ran a fair 5th of nine at 1400M. Coming back in trip today, she can be in the mix. (9) FLYING ICE and (2) MOTHER WONDERFUL other place chances.

Selections(5) Cheonha Geongang (11) Holy Run (8) Road To Win (9) Flying Ice
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) CHEONGONGUI SEOM has run 5th in both his two starts so far, but both have been in good times over 1000M and 1200M. In this company and from this gate, he can be on pace and third-up, today can be his day. (8) GANGCHEOL DRAGON has two 3rd places and a 4th from his latest three appearances at 1300M and 1400M. He has never finished inside the top two, but Munro gets on and against this set of rivals, he can break that today. (9) PROCEED beat a couple of these on his way to a close 4th at 1300M on August 3rd. He also has a 3rd place on his resume and can sit handy and run into the money again here. (6) LONDON GOLD and (4) SANGIM DAEPYO among other placing hopes.

Selections(3) Cheongongui Seom (8) Gangcheol Dragon (9) Proceed (6) London Gold
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

This is a tricky one. We’ll take a chance on (10) MY DREAM DAY. He comes up in class having run 2nd in both his first two starts at 1000M and 1200M, racing on the pace both times. He draws a touch wider than ideal but is down in the weights and Tom Gillespie’s juvenile looks to have a win in him. (3) CAPTAIN EVERYTHING has good experience at this level with two 2nd places and a 4th from his latest three. Franco knows him well and can settle behind the speed and run on strong here. (4) SEOGWI OREUM has the fastest time of any of these at the distance, recorded when 3rd last time out on August 18th. He may make for some appeal at a probable each-way price. (5) DOCTOR FIGHTER and (11) GRAND DREAM, both up in class following last start maiden wins, are others to keep safe in your wider numbers.

Selections(10) My Dream Day (3) Captain Everything (4) Seogwi Oreum (5) Doctor Fighter
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) CHOEGANG HYEONMA is yet to win in nine starts but has no fewer than eight top five finishes. He comes in off a solid 3rd place over 1400M on August 4th and while a previous try at two turns didn’t go well, he looks ready for another crack here in what is not a strong race. (6) SINUI UNMYEONG got his maiden win at the thirteenth time of asking over 1400M on August 18th. He comes up in class and up to 1700M for the first time, but in this company, he should be measuring up. (3) SEUNGNI GONGJU does have form at this distance, having finished 4th and 2nd in her latest two – her only attempts at two turns so far. Her times haven’t been special, but they are enough to put her in contention against this lot. The up in class maiden (1) CHROMITE, along with (7) GOLD MUNGCHI, a pickup ride for Edwin Maldonado, are others in the frame.

(more…)

Jeju Governor’s Cup/Munhwa Ilbo/Exchange Race Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 7)

The eve of the OBS Korea Cup and Sprint sees an absolute feast of a card at Seoul Racecourse on Saturday, featuring the Group 3 Jeju Governor’s Cup where the nation’s top fillies and mares will clash, as well as the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy for juveniles. Additionally there are Trophy races for the Singapore Pools, Japan Racing Association, Selangor Turf Club, Hong Kong Jockey Club, Gold Circle (South Africa) and OSAF (South America). In total there are 11 races from 13:55 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Wonderful Slew and Jeulgeounyeojeong clash again (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class Open (1700M) Special Weight B (Gold Circle Trophy) / KRW 150 Million

(4) MEGA DRAGON was an also-ran in the Korean Derby in May but has since put in two solid 3rd place finishes at class 3 level over a mile and at 1800M. In this company he can settle behind the speed and run on and with Alan Munro aboard, today can be his day. It has been a while between drinks for (1) COMPLETE TIME, but she enters with recent form reading well including a 4th place in double quick time over 1400M at class 2 level on August 3rd. She is one for one over 1700M and from the inside, should be on pace and in this a long way. (11) JJARITHAN JAYU beat Mega Dragon when winning at class 3 level over 1800M on August 4th and he shouldn’t be dismissed here. (6) TAURUS QUEEN and (2) UPTOWN WHIZ among plenty of others in good form and with at least placing claims.

Selections(4) Mega Dragon (1) Complete Time (11) Jjarithan Jayu (6) Taurus Queen
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class Open (1200M) Special Weight B / OSAF Trophy / KRW 150 Million

Fillies and mares only. (6) BRIGHT HANSEN is a winner of four from six including her latest on July 14th when on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a quick time for this distance at class 3 level She is nicely in here and from a central gate, can get to the lead and take some beating. (10) STARTER is the main danger and may even begin as the favourite. She was an also-ran in the first two legs of the Triple Tiara but has since won back-to-back races at class 4 over 1400M and class 3 at a mile. She has won at this distance too and while she has the challenge of the widest gate, with a bit of luck early, she can get forward and can win. (9) MILLION PARTY has won her latest three all over this distance and up to class 3 level. She is another one who likes to get forward and can be a danger. (4) FURIOSA and (8) GEUMA ALLURE among other place chances.

Selections(6) Bright Hansen (10) Starter (9) Million Party (4) Furiosa
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3:  Class Open (1400M) Special Weight B / SLTC Trophy / KRW 150 Million

(7) SPEED ONE scored three consecutive wins between December and April to get up to class 3 level and then ran 3rd over a mile on July 27th. He tackles 1400M for the first time under a light weight and Moon Se-young, who doesn’t ride in either the Cup or Sprint tomorrow, will be keen to take out this valuable trophy race. (11) SUPER FINISH comes in having recorded a scorching time when winning at 1200M on June 22nd. He is a two-time winner over this trip too, and while he has the widest gate to contend with, he will be a danger. (3) DAEMUL was a strong winner in a tight finish at quite big odds over 1200M at class 2 level on August 24th. He makes a quick return here and while he is up 4kg in the weights, can be considered. (5) GLADIUS and (9) DREAM PLAY are others in the frame.

Selections(7) Speed One  (11) Super Finish (3) Daemul (5 Gladius
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1800M) Special Weight B / JRA Trophy / KRW 150 Million

(7) GANGPUNGMA is the one to beat here. Having run 3rd in a similar Trophy race over a mile in April, he then won the Listed Sprots Chosun Trophy over 2000M in May and then ran a close 2nd to the excellent Naol Sniper, again at 2000M at class 1 level on July 7th. Under today’s conditions, he carries an additional 4kg, but that shouldn’t be a problem. (4) MY CENTER won that aforementioned April Trophy race at a mile and while he was well back in both the Korean Derby and Minister’s Cup, he returned to winning ways on July 20th, again back at the mile. He too has his fair share of weight but draws nicely and is a danger. (6) DRAGON STAR was 4th in the Sports Chosun and has since registered back-to-back runner-up finishes at class 2 level. He has won at this distance and has registered a quick time at it and can be in the mix again. (11) BLACK BELT and (13) COMPLETE LEVEL among plenty of others who can be in the hunt for the money.

Selections(7) Gangpungma (4) My Center (6) Dragon Star (11) Black Belt
Next Best13, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 13

Seoul Race 5:  Class Open (1400M) Special Weight A / Jeju Governor’s Cup (KOR G3) / KRW 500 Million

The latest round of the Queens’ Tour sees fifteen top-class fillies and mares line up and (8) WONDERFUL SLEW and (12) JEULGEOUNYEOJEONG will renew their rivalry. The latter dominated last year but Wonderful Slew won when they met in the KNN Cup over a mile at Busan in June. Jeulgeounyeojeong had an excuse that day as she got interfered with in the back straight to the extent her jockey did well to stay on, but they raced one another again when taking on the boys in the KRA Cup Classic over 2000M here in August and Wonderful Slew ran 4th to Jeulgeounyeojeong’s 9th. It isn’t necessarily a two-filly race though. (14) CROWN HAMSEONG ran 2nd on debut and has since strung together a series of five wins up to class 2 level and up to this distance. She has recorded some super times, and she has every chance of measuring up. (13) ECLIPSE BERRY won the first two legs of this year’s Triple Tiara and while she came up short in the final leg over 2000M, that was an unusual race and back at one turn, she can be a danger. (1) RAON FOREST another in the hunt in a tremendous looking race.

(more…)