Sunday at Seoul Racecourse sees the 42nd running of the Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1), the final Group 1 race of the season and while with the advent of the Korea Cup, it is no longer the most valuable race on the calendar, in the eyes of many connections, it remains the most prestigious.SEE HERE FOR FULL RACE BY RACE PREVIEW FOR ALL 17 SUNDAY RACES ACROSSS SEOUL AND BUSAN.
This year, all eyes are on GLOBAL HIT, who has assumed the mantle of best horse in Korea. A year ago, he was beaten in this race by a nose following a final furlong duel with the now retired defending champion Winner’s Man, but he has been in imperious form since, going down to defeat just twice in 2024 The first of those was by a nose to TUHONUI BANSEOK in the Busan Mayor’s Cup (1800M KOR-G2) and then behind Crown Pride and Wilson Tesoro in the Korea Cup (1800M G3), preventing a Japanese clean sweep of the places by running 3rd.
Global Hit comes into the Grand Prix having won the President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) by five-lengths in October and he will be a short-price favourite to claim what would be the biggest win of both his and jockey Kim Hye-sun’s respective careers before, all being well, the pair head for an overseas campaign in Dubai.
Can he be beaten? Moon Se-young is an eight-time champion jockey in Korea, but he hasn’t won this race since partnering Bally Brae to victory all the way back in 2007. If Global Hit comes up short, then Moon is well placed on NAOL SNIPER, 3rd in the KRA Cup Classic (2000M KOR-G2) and 2nd in the President’s Cup, to take advantage.
TUHONUI BANSEOK is there as well and while he races for the first time since running 2nd to Global Hit in the KRA Cup Classic in August, his quality is not in doubt. Global Hit’s stablemate SPEED YOUNG is a Group winner and having run 3rd in the President’s Cup, is not to be dismissed.
The new generation is represented by Classic winning SUCCESS BAEKPA, while fellow three-year-old AMERICA GOLD is an exciting up and comer and one of two in the race for trainer Luigi Riccardi.
The Grand Prix is race 7 on the 11-race Sunday card at Seoul with a local post time of 15:40:
1. MONTAUK CHAT – 6th of ten in the KRA Cup Classic and then 7th of eleven in the Korea Cup. Two ordinary class 2 handicap performances since, which is his level. This is very hard.
2. NAOL SNIPER – 3rd in the KRA Cup Classic and then an excellent 2nd in the President’s Cup, five-lengths behind Global Hit. Can lead or run on from behind, he steps up to the distance for the first time and there is no reason why it can’t suit. Will be among the favourites.
3. SO MUCH GO – The seven-year-old enters in the form of his life having won his latest three, all at class 1 level and most recently at 2200M. He should relish the additional half furlong, and he will be running on strong. Not impossible he could get close.
It’s the big one. The final Group 1 of the year, the Grand Prix Stakes is at Seoul on Sunday. We’ll have a full guide to the big race soon, but in the meantime, here is the race by race for the 11 race card at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and the 6 race card at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05:
Last year’s Grand Prix had quite the finish with the now retired Winner’s Man holding off this year’s favourite Global Hit (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens with all but one racing for the first time. We’re going to go with that one though and the delightfully named (8) WONDERFUL FAPPY. She didn’t run on when debuting over 1300M on October 27th but previously looked very goof when winning a trial. She should have derived benefit from that debut run and with a bit more maturity here, is worth another chance. (4) TAPDINE took a couple of goes to qualify but when he did, he looked very well, leading every step of the way in a trial on November 1st and stopping the clock in a quick time. If he brings that form to the races, he will go close and Moon Se-young aboard means he will probably start as favourite. (2) MUNHAK BELL improved in the second of two trials while (5) SSOARA STAR and (6) NURI EUTTEUM are other first-timers with claims.
Selections
(8) Wonderful Fappy (4) Tapdine (2) Munhak Bell (5) Ssoara Star
Next Best
6, 1
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Maiden fillies here and (11) CHOWON DOLPUNG will be the warm favourite. She debuted with a 2nd place before taking her chance in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo which was perhaps a bit much a bit soon. She then bounced back with a very close 4th place in a blanket finish in a filly maiden over 1000M on October 12th. Despite the wide gate, she should be on pace here and may take some beating. (3) SWITCH POWER has two 4th places among three starts so far most recently at 1200M on November 9th. She has finished off her races well and the slight step up in trip can suit. (2) KOTAP raced three times without distinction this Spring. She was then off for five months, returning to action on November 2nd with a solid 3rd. She should strip fitter for that effort and can go close here. (10) RAON THE BELMONT and (4) P N S PA others in the hunt.
Selections
(11) Chowon Dolpung (3) Switch Power (2) Kotap (10) Raon The Belmont
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
(5) YOUNG SKYWALKER was a beaten favourite on debut when 2nd over 1200M on October 13th and then a beaten favourite at start two when 3rd over 1300M on November 17th. He has raced on pace both times and in this company, with very little early speed, he can get to the front and the force really should be with him this time. (1) ANN BUNNY was a promising 3rd on debut over this distance on November 1st. She should have derived benefit from that, she draws well, and she can be in the mix here. (6) BREEDO COMET was 3rd behind Young Skywalker when they debuted together on that October 13th race, settling back and running on. He has had seven weeks off since and should have benefited for the run. (3) FLYING THE KHAN and (4) SEUNGCHUNHANEUNHAE are others who can improve.
Selections
(5) Young Skywalker (1) Ann Bunny (6) Breedo Comet (3) Flying The Khan
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
2, 5, 7, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Very tricky maiden. We’ll go with (3) LUCKY SUNNY who, after an ordinary debut, was an improved 4th at start two over 1300M on November 3rd, racing handy. She draws nicely to sit behind the speed again here and third-up she can be peaking. (2) FLASH GOLD had a poor day at the office when well supported over this distance on October 27th, slowly away and never a factor. Instead, we go on his effort two starts back when on pace and a good 2nd then he is right in this from an in-form stable. (1) NAMCHON TOWN had a hard time in the Listed NACF Chairman’s Trophy at start two in October, but he had posted a good time when 5th on debut back in July. That Listed race was his first outing since then and he should have come on for it. Munro is up. (11) JISAN FORCE and (8) TAEGISAN KING are others in the frame.
Selections
(3) Lucky Sunny (2) Flash Gold (1) Namchon Town (11) Jisan Force
Next Best
8, 10
Fast Start
1, 7, 9, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive maiden. (7) BIG JAWS has shown steady progress across three starts to date, culminating in a 3rd place over 1400M on November 1st when he raced close to the pace. Expect similar tactics today and back in trip, he has as good a chance as any. (3) SIX HERO will also be challenging for the lead early. His best finish so far is a 3rd place which came over this distance on October 6th. Franco climbs on and from a good gate he should be right in this. (11) WIND TIME was an improved 3rd at start number two at this distance on October 27th when she briefly led close to home and stopped the clock in a quicker time than any of the others here have achieved. She has the challenge of the widest gate but with a bit of luck at the start can find a good position and can be a danger. The form drops off significantly after those three. (10) HANEUL POKPUNG and debut-maker (4) BARBELL MOMO are perhaps the best of the rest.
Selections
(7) Big Jaws (3) Six Hero (11) Wind Time (10) Haneul Pokpung
Next Best
4, 2
Fast Start
3, 7, 9, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
This week has seen the heaviest November snowfall in Korea for 117 years which left the track under about two feet of the stuff on Wednesday night and Thursday morning. It has eased now and temperatures are set to rise wo with any luck by the time of Sunday’s Grand Prix Stakes, it should all have melted. That will result in wet conditions for the weekend’s racing including the Saturday card at Seoul which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
It’s been a snowy week in Seoul
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maiden fillies with four of the nine racing for the first time. The experience should win out though, principally through (7) SUHYANG MIIN. After a good trial, she ran 4th on debut in a very similar race to this over 1200M on October 26th, racing handy throughout. With only a bit of natural improvement, she will be the one to beat. (2) WONDERFUL THATCH has a 4th and a 5th from two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M. She settled midfield both times before running on, and she can run into the money here. (1) CUPID K has also hinted at ability across two outings. She improved to 5th in the second of them and can continue to make progress in this company. Of the debut-makers, (4) JUNMA FORCE and (9) RAON SILENCE were the best in trials and are the most likely to make an immediate impact.
Selections
(7) Suhyang Miin (2) Wonderful Thatch (1) Cupid K (4) Junma Force
Next Best
9, 5
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Imported maidens here with three of the eleven racing for the first time. After trialing up behind last week’s maiden winner Taekhan, (6) BLUE PIORA debuted on October 26th and came from off the pace to run a solid 3rd, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the proves. The slight step up in trip can suit and she can win here. (3) ELDORADO HAENAM was a trial winner and was then 2nd on debut at 1200M at the end of September, a long way behind winner Final K, who followed up with 2nd place in a Listed race. He has had nine weeks off since so comes in fresh and should pose a real threat. (2) SURENESS is another who debuted well, running a solid 3rd at 1200M on October 10th, showing close to the pace. He draws well to lead and can be in this a long way. (8) MIGHTY FREE and (11) WHIZ CAMPAIGN are others who can improve on fair debuts.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive looking race. (11) SMART A ONE gets the nod having run 3rd on debut over this distance on October 26th with a couple of today’s rivals behind. She overcame the same wide draw to get on pace and she can do so again, and this time come out on top. (8) POWER MONSTER was 4th in that same race, improving on a 7th place on debut. He only has a length to find on Smart A One and while he doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim this time, meaning he Comes up 4kg in the weights, he can be a danger. (4) DUSON EUTTEUM did nothing in two starts in August and September but looked a much better proposition when leading for most of the way in a trial earlier this month, running home 3rd and stopping the clock in a good time. If she brings that form to the races, she can challenge. (6) PASA KING and debut-maker (2) GRAND FLYING are others who could have a say.
Selections
(11) Smart A One (8) Power Monster (4) Duson Eutteum (6) Pasa King
Next Best
2, 9
Fast Start
3, 7, 8, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(5) BLACK SIDAE shapes as a warm favourite in this small field. He has recorded her two best performances since being stepped up to this distance with back-to-back 3rd place finishes in his latest two racing close to the pace both times. He draws nicely to lead again and can go all the way. (3) SPEED CARA did nothing on debut back in March and then didn’t reappear until October 27th. Then he looked much better, running a solid 4th over 1400M. He should strip fitter for that run, the step up in trip can suit, and he can go close. (6) NAEGILUIYEONGGWANG was a much-improved 2nd at this distance on November 9th. Third up this preparation, he can be peaking fitness wise and is a place chance again. (7) MERIT SUNSHINE and (8) SAVANA CHARLIE others in the hunt for the minors.
Selections
(5) Black Sidae (3) Speed Cara (6) Naegiluiyeonggwang (7) Merit Sunshine
Next Best
8, 4
Fast Start
2, 3, 5, 7
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
It’s Grand Prix Stakes weekend! The real Christmas for Korean racing fans. That’s at Seoul on Sunday but the action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Global Hit and Tuhonui Banseok will renew hostilities on Sunday in Seoul (Pic: KRA)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maiden fillies with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (3) WONDERFUL LARK, who is the only one to have already raced twice. She has finished 5th and 4th in her two starts so far, coming from off the pace. She should have a fitness edge on these, Franco climbs on, and she can win. The danger is a first timer. (12) B.K. DANCING GIRL led from gate to wire in her trial, stopping the clock in a quick time. She has the challenge of the widest gate, but if she brings that form to the races, she has every chance. (10) MUSKET GIRL is also a trial winner, settling midfield and running on. The time wasn’t fast, but she showed enough to suggest she can make an impact first-up. (6) KKEUTPAN YEOGEOL and (8) YEONGGWANGUI HONEY will be the others in the market.
Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Twelve imported juvenile maidens go around here, with eight of them racing for the first time. (4) GEUMA EMINENT will be the hot favourite. He showed on pace on debut over this distance on November 8th, ultimately running 2nd, well beaten by a good winner but showing plenty of promise. He draws well to be on pace, Seo Seung-un gets on, and he will take some beating. (5) OASIS POWER debuted in the same race and put in a decent performance of his own, running 3rd having raced handy. He has three-lengths to find on Geuma Eminent, but he too should have come on for the run. We turn to the debut-makers after that. (12) EL CAZADOR went through two trials running a very close 2nd in the first and then within himself behind Grand Prix bound Tuhonui Banseok. That form can serve him well here. (6) MEETING ST and (11) SELL LIKE others who looked well in their heats.
Selections
(4) Geuma Eminent (5) Oasis Power (12) El Cazador (6) Meeting St.
Next Best
11, 2
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 6
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (6) MOTHER CHUKJE ran 2nd on debut, racing on pace, before finishing 4th at start number two on October 25th then slow away and then laying in for part of the race. Franco gets on here and with a bit more maturity, she has every chance of winning this. The main danger is one gate inside. (5) RIGHT CHAMP has raced three times with a best of 2nd at 1400M in September. She likes to race on pace and from a good draw can lead and be in this a long way. (3) DIA MATE has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and from a good draw, she can be a factor here. (9) DREAMMA and (12) DOLPHIN KICK will be the other two in the market.
Selections
(6) Mother Chukje (5) Right Champ (3) Dia Mate (9) Dreamma
Next Best
12, 4
Fast Start
5, 6, 9, 10
Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
A very competitive race. (6) STEROPES has four top five finishes from six starts so far and comes in having beaten a few of these on her way to 4th place on November 1st. She likes to race on pace or handy, so she is drawn fairly enough, and she has as good a chance as any. He is unkindly named, and he isn’t even very big, but (3) FAT BOY has hinted at ability across his eight outings to date. A previous outing at this distance didn’t go well, but his running style suggests that it is worth another try, and the Franco factor means plenty will be backing him. (4) I AM DREAMER has made steady progress across three starts so far, with his best being his latest when 3rd over a mile on November 8th. He comes back in trip and can play a big part here. (1) DALBITWIE, who beat Fat Boy last time out, and (9) CANCAN STEP other place chances.
Selections
(6) Steropes (3) Fat Boy (4) I Am Dreamer (1) Dalbitwie
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 11
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Two big races at Busan on Sunday with the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie to decide the year’s champion Korean bred juvenile, as well as the Listed Breeders’ Cup Queen, the final leg of the Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares. There are 6 races at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05, and 11 at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Wonderful Slew (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Small field of juvenile maidens with six of the eight racing for the first time. (8) SEMYEONG DIA will be the warm favourite. She’s raced twice, improving from 7th on debut to 2nd at start number two over this distance on October 27th when handy throughout and beaten by a good winner. She should have the fitness edge on these and will take some beating. Second favourite will be the pick of the newcomers in (5) CHAMP HAMSEONG. He raced close to the pace in his trial, crossing the line 3rd in a good time and if he brings that form to the races, can be a danger. (6) JEULGEOUN SANGSANG and (2) HANGANG FANTASTIC also hinted at ability in their respective trials and can be considered. The other one with experience, (3) LALA GIRL was sent off as favourite on debut back in August but while that didn’t go well, she can be given another chance here after thirteen weeks off.
Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Ten imported American juvenile maidens chase a big prize with five of them racing for the first time. The experience is favoured, principally (7) TAP TIER who, after winning a trial, was a desperately close 2nd on debut over this distance on October 26th, showing on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a quick time. He should have come on for the run but won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this. (6) BREEDO SIRIS has raced twice with a 5th and a 3rd and shapes as the probable second favourite coming from off the pace. (8) DREAMER WHIZ ran 3rd on debut over 1000M and should have come on for the run. (2) MAJOR CROWN was poor on debut in September but has subsequently trialed up well and should be better this time. As for the first timers, (9) PICTURE is the pick.
Selections
(7) Tap Tier (6) Breedo Siris (8) Dreamer Whiz (2) Major Crown
Next Best
9, 1
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 9
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
We’ll take a chance on (11) DUSTIN MARINE. After a promising trial, he got a bit far back on debut over 1200M on October 25th before running on. The step up to 1400M can suit, and Moon Se-young, in town to ride in the feature races later on, is an intriguing booking. (9) BORYEONGLIGHTQUEEN beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place on her first try at this distance on October 27th, coming from off the pace. There isn’t much early speed here, so she may be closer to the pace this time and based on that latest effort, will probably start as the betting favourite. (3) TEAM SURPRISE was 4th in that October 27th race behind Boryeonglightqueen. She also has a 2nd place to her name and while she has a tendency to start slowly, she can be in the mix here. (10) CAPTAIN KOREA and (6) WORLD TAEYANG others in the minor money hunt.
Selections
(11) Dustin Marine (9) Boryeonglightqueen (3) Team Surprise (10) Captain Korea
Next Best
6, 5
Fast Start
2, 7, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Small field of maidens and (5) CHEONGSAN JILJU will be favourite. He’s finished between 3rd and 5th in all of his four starts so far, with the 5th place coming in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy for juveniles. He has a strong finish on him and the slight step up in trip should mean he proves too strong. (6) RAON NIZHINSKII may be in need of a spell-check, but he improved to 3rd place at start number two on October 19th settling midfield and running on. He finished off well and is another who the additional half furlong can benefit. (8) SPLENDID rounds out the top three with scope to get better after four fair outings so far. Sole debut-maker (4) GHOST CHRYSOL didn’t catch the eye in his trial but went around fairly and has to be given a minor money chance first up in this company. (7) MARUBYEOL too can aim for some minor money.
Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Competitive race with eight of the twelve having finished inside the top three in their respective latest outings. (6) UNJU CHALLENGE is among them, having scored her maiden win at start two at the end of September before finishing 2nd on her first try at this class and distance on October 25th. She has proven able to run well from the lead or from off the pace and she can win here. (3) NINETY PLUS ran 2nd behind the excellent Winner Clear in the Gansgeo-gu Mayor’s Trophy over 1200M on September 8th. He then had no luck from a wide draw over 1400M in October, but he evidently has plenty of quality and is worth another chance here. (11) MAKE IT BETTER won over a mile at class 6 level in September before running 2nd on October 25th. He was favourite that day and can be in the mix again. (7) ARION TAEYANG and (5) ALPHA HEART, the latter having won that October 25th race ahead of Make It Better, are others to consider.
Selections
(6) Unju Challenge (3) Ninety Plus (11) Make It Better (7) Arion Taeyang
Next Best
5, 1
Fast Start
6, 7, 11, 12
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maiden fillies with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. The experience is good though and (11) GWANAKSAN JOY shapes as a warm favourite. She’s the only one in the field to have raced twice having followed up a 4th place on debut with 2nd at start two over 1000M on October 12th, racing on pace both times. She has the challenge of a wide draw but if she can find a forward position, she may take some beating. (7) GEUMBIT RUNNER was 3rd on debut over 1000M at the end of September, coming from well off the pace. She should have come on for the run and the additional trip can suit. (4) GEUNYANG GARA ran fairly on debut last month but went back and won a trial in fine style last week. She can be on pace and in this a long way. Of the first timers, (5) SINHAN ACE and (1) JOY LIGHT are the picks based on their trials.
Selections
(11) Gwanaksan Joy (7) Geumbit Runner (4) Geunyang Gara (5) Sinhan Ace
Next Best
1, 3
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens. (5) ECLIPSE EDGE did nothing on debut but was a much-improved 2nd at start two on October 13th at 1200M, well beaten by a good winner but coming from midfield to finish off well. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (8) MR.STORM won a trial and was then 4th on debut over 1200M on October 27th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He should have come on for the run and can get closer here. There are two debut-makers and of them, (2) JOY CHEONHA performed well in his second trial overcoming a wide gate to run on pace and finish 2nd. That was all the way back in August, so it has taken some time for him to get to the races, but this is very amenable company to debut in. (6) ROAD TO A SPUR and (3) CHEONGHAE STAR others who may make progress.
Selections
(5) Eclipse Edge (8) Mr.Storm (2) Joy Cheonha (6) Road To A Spur
Next Best
3, 4
Fast Start
2, 5, 6, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden and (5) DAESEUNGMA will be a hot favourite. After an underwhelming debut, she has recorded a pair of 4th place finishes and a 3rd with the latter coming in a very similar maiden to this on October 12th. She will race on pace or handy and should have too much for this lot. (7) KYLIE has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record, both at this distance and while she has performed below expectations in her latest two, she should be able to get to the lead here and can be in this a long way. (4) DIA ROOK ran a very close 2nd at this distance two starts back and while she only put in a fair performance over 1300M a month ago, she can be given another chance. (8) CUPID HEART and (2) COMMAND BLUE other placing chances.
Selections
(5) Daeseungma (7) Kylie (4) Dia Rook (8) Cupid Heart
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 7
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(7) GEUMA FOREMOST has made progress over three starts, culminating in 2nd place over 1300M on October 27th, well beaten by a good winner but in turn, well clear of 3rd. The slight step up in trip again can suit and he can go one better. The big danger is (1) ELDORADO HEUNGBU. He stepped up to this distance on October 27th and took to it well, running 2nd in a time quicker than any of the others here who have attempted the 1400M have achieved. He draws nicely to race handy, and he has every chance. (9) ORANGE TIME has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, at 1200M and at this distance. The widest gate shouldn’t pose a problem, and he can be close again. (3) MEGA STEP and (2) TRES VITE are others in the minor money hunt.
Selections
(7) Geuma Foremost (1) Eldorado Heungbu (9) Orange Time (3) Mega Step
Next Best
2, 8
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 7
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(8) MORE THAN JOKE was 2nd on debut before finishing down the field in the Rookie Stakes at the end of August. He came back out and got his maiden win at start number three over 1200M on October 13th, racing handy and winning well. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but he will be favoured to go back-to-back. (9) SMART MUSIC also broke through at start three over 1200M on October 26th. He has shown he has a strong finish on him, and he can measure up in this company. So too can (4) BEOLGYO GRAMMY. She got her maiden win at just the second time of asking on October 12th, leading from gate to wire. She carries a light weight and draws well to lead again. Among those with prior experience of this class, (10) YONGBISU and (6) EDENUI DONGJJOK, the latter needing a line drawn through his latest two, look the best.
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. For the on top pick, we’ll side with experience and (5) SUCCESS GOLD, who ran 4th on debut over 1-00M before improving to 2nd at start number two at 1300M on November 1st, settling midfield and running on. Her times have been good, and the experience can see her home on top. Among the first timers (7) CHOEGANG TRIPLE is the clear pick. He won his trial earlier this month, running on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a good time. If he brings that form to the races, he’ll be close. (3) SPEED TOP beat a couple of his fellow newcomers when 4th in a competitive trial. A half-brother to ten-time winner Daemangui Gil, he draws nicely and can put in a bold showing. Returning to the experience, (8) SUCCESS COW and (1) GRAND CRU can improve.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) GOOGLE CAR ran 3rd on debut in September before improving to 2nd at start number two over this distance on November 3rd when racing on pace. Expect similar tactics here from a good draw, and he will be a hot favourite to go one better. (8) ROMANCE BLUE has two 3rd places on her record, and she comes in off a close 4th at this distance in a good time on October 4th. A similar run will see her in the finish, and she will be the second favourite. Rounding out most trifectas will be (3) BLACK WAVE. She’s been knocking on the door across her nine starts, and having led in her latest two, will probably do so again from a good gate, and she can be in this a long way. (1) SEOGWI OSEONGTAP and debut-maker (9) SO GOOD other chances.
Selections
(2) Google Car (8) Romance Blue (3) Black Wave (1) Seogwi Oseongtap
Next Best
9, 10
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 10
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After running midfield on debut, (2) COWBOY MAN was a significantly improved 2nd at start two over 1400M on October 27th, racing handy throughout. He steps up slightly in trip again, draws very nicely, and he will be the hot favourite to make it third time lucky. (1) RUNNING FASHION may offer some each-way interest. He has a 2nd place to his name and ran well from off the pace for 5th on what was his first try at a mile last time out. He may have benefited from that experience, and he can be a danger. (5) RALLY MAN has hinted at ability across four outings so far. He comes up to the mile for the first time and it can suit. (7) SEOBU CAPTAIN and (4) GOLDEN NICE others in the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Cowboy Man (1) Running Fashion (5) Rally Man (7) Seobu Captain
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
2, 5, 6, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(3) HAPPY CHARMING won on debut over 1200M in September finishing in 2nd place on her first try at this class and distance on October 20th. She was well beaten by a good winner (Doctor Fighter) but she beat plenty of today’s rivals and she can go one better here, most likely racing on pace. She will vie for favourite status with (7) CATCH THE DREAM. She led all the way around on debut over 1200M on October 18th to win by as many lengths as she pleased. She comes up in class and in distance here, but the manner of that win suggests there is more to come, and she has every chance of repeating. (6) DONGNAM GANTAJA also comes up in class following a maiden win, in his case at start number three over 1200M on October 25th. It was a dominant win, and he can measure up. (12) ROAD TO FIGHTER and (11) WATER DRAGON are others in the hunt in a competitive race.
Selections
(3) Happy Charming (7) Catch The Dream (6) Dongnam Gangtaja (12) Road To Fighter
Next Best
11, 8
Fast Start
3, 7, 8, 9
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Juveniles take centre-stage at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday with Listed races open to the very best young imports at both tracks. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens in the opener and (4) ECLIPSE BLACK will be a hot favourite. An extremely tough assignment on debut in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy went about as well as could be expected by the was much better when tried in regular company at 1400M on October 6th when he overcame gate ten to run 3rd. The Shackleford colt gets a much better draw this time and he should win. (11) WONDERFUL REASON was a fair 4th on debut over 1200M on October 5th when handy all the way around. He doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim this time but should have come on for the run and can be closer. (3) HAKSAN CAIRO has a 3rd and a 5th from two starts so far, coming from off the pace both times. Nicely drawn, he can sit behind the speed and run into the money. (9) DURAY SHOW and (2) HIGH CROWN are others who can improve from their debuts.
Selections
(4) Eclipse Black (11) Wonderful Reason (3) Haksan Cairo (9) Duray Show
Next Best
2, 5
Fast Start
4, 8, 10, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (8) HANGANG FASHIONED has a couple of 4th places and a fifth among four starts so far up to 1200M. The slight step up in trip can suit, and she has as good a chance as any here. She will need to overturn form though on (6) ECO WORLD, who beat her when the pair ran 4th and 5th on October 12th over 1200M. Harry stays up and from a better gate, she is a big danger. (4) HYEWONYONGMA enters off a much-improved runner-up finish when stepped up to this distance for the first time on October 19th when she led for much of the way around. A similar effort will see her very close here. (10) NESSUN DORMA and (3) GANDAGO are the other placing chances.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Small field of juvenile maidens in the opener and (2) YOUNG SKYWALKER is the one to beat. After winning a trial, he was a smart 2nd on debut on October 13th racing on pace and going close in a quick time. He draws well to lead and will be hard to hold out. (5) MAENGNYONG was similarly 2nd on his debut which came over 1300M on October 18th when he led for most of the way, only to get passed in the final furlong. He too will be on pace and can be dangerous. Continuing with the runner-up theme, (1) FLASH RUN came from off the pace to finish 2nd on debut in a filly only maiden over 1000M on October 11th. The step up in trip can suit and she can be a danger too. Debut-maker (6) FLYING RACE ran 2nd in his trial, well beaten by an experienced horse, but hinting at ability and he can go well first-up. (7) BEOLMA KING was 3rd on debut and can build on that here.
Selections
(2) Young Skywalker (5) Maengnyong (1) Flash Run (6) Flying Race
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
2, 5
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. We’ll give (5) RISING MO a pass on her latest which came in the Listed NACF Chairman’s Trophy for juveniles when he was slow away and always a long way back. Instead, we’ll go on her first two outings when he led from gate to wire on debut over 1000M and then was 3rd at 1300M at start number two, both in quick times. If she brings that form, she can win. (10) BRIGHT KAI comes in off a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two at 1300M and 1400M suggesting she is getting to grips with this level. The cut back in trip is a minor surprise but, in this company, she can be dangerous, settling behind the speed and running on. (3) GULJAK SUN enters off a 2nd place at class and distance in a very similar race on October 20th. She was well beaten by a good winner, but a similar effort will put her in the mix again. (6) MISS FINAL and (2) HWIPARAM are the other placing chances.
Selections
(5) Rising Mo (10) Bright Kai (3) Guljak Sun (6) Miss Final
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 7
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
It’s hard to go past (1) MIRAGE here. After a solid trial, she ran 3rd on debut over 1200M in an all-filly maiden on October 18th, racing on pace throughout. She should have come on for that run and she won’t need to improve much – if at all – to win this. (10) FLASH DAY races for the first time since June when he ran a solid 4th over this distance. He didn’t offer too many clues in a fair trial at the end of October but on the best he has shown, he can be a danger. (6) DIA X has the fastest time among these for the distance by some margin, recorded when 7th on debut (admittedly on a week in August when the track was running the fastest it has ever been). He has trialed well since his latest race in early September and that’s enough to put him in the mix here. (3) RACE MAN and (9) PINE BLUE others who could improve in this moderate company.
Selections
(1) Mirage (10) Flash Day (6) Dia X (3) Race Man
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 6
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) MAGIC IMPACT has really taken to the 1700M, getting her maiden win on her first try at it at class 6 level in September before following up with a close 2nd on her class 5 debut on October 12th when she led for most of the way and had a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She carries an additional 2.5kg this time but that shouldn’t be a problem, and she will be favourite to go one better. (9) DANGDAECHOWOL is yet to win in four attempts but comes up in class following back-to-back runner up finishes over 1300M. He tackles 1700M for the first time and given his running style so far, it may well suit. (10) COMPLETE PARTY was a somewhat unexpected winner at this class over 1400M on October 13th when leading all the way. She comes up 3.5kg in the weights and is up to 1700M for the first time, but she can be competitive. (4) PURPLE SHINHWA and (7) NATURAL SOUND are the other place chances.
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens with all but three racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (6) NAEGILUI YEOJEONG, who overcame a wide draw to settle handy and run on for 4th place on debut at this distance on October 13th. He should have come on for that run and from a better gate, he looks the one to beat. (10) GEOLJAK CHUKJE bled on debut over 1000M on September 14th but still managed to finish 2nd, only beaten less than a length. He came through a trial unscathed in October and can be a danger here. Turning to the first timers, (1) CHUPUNGNYEONG was the best in trials, settling just off the speed and running on for 3rd in a fair time. If he brings that form to the races, he won’t be far away. (5) GOLD QUEENS and (8) CHEONGRYONGUI CAL others who hinted at ability in their heats.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(11) YEONHUI HERO was a close 2nd on debut at this distance in August and while he had a poor day at the office when favourite on September 15th, getting a difficult trip and ultimately finishing 6th, he comes in fresh here and in this modest company can be given another chance. That modest company means we can give a chance to debut-maker (2) UPPERHAND. The Testa Matta filly went through two trials, improving in the second (which was voluntary so may not appear on all race cards, but it was on October 10th, and she was 4th in 63.7) and from a good draw she can put in a bold effort. (9) BEST SHARK improved at start number two and can so do again here. (8) BLACK RUSSIAN and (5) GRAY PHANTOM, others who can get closer.
Selections
(11) Yeonhui Hero (2) Upperhand (9) Best Shark (8) Black Russian
Next Best
5, 1
Fast Start
2, 6, 10, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(6) GANGNARU ran 3rd on debut on October 27th, settling back and finishing off well over 1200M. He should have come on for the run, the step up to 1400M can suit, and he is the one to beat. (1) YEONGWON GIANT Has a best of 2nd and has picked up again in his latest two, registering a pair of 4th place finishes, most recently at this distance on October 20th when racing further forward than usual. From the inside gate, expect similar tactics today and he can be a danger. (8) BEST KINGDOM is two starts into a comeback following almost eight months out. He comes in off a useful 4th place at this distance at the end of September and can get closer here. (5) OKCHEON WIN STAR and (2) HIPPODROME are other possibles.
Selections
(6) Gangnaru (1) Yeongwon Giant (8) Best Kingdom (5) Okcheon Win Star
Next Best
2, 7
Fast Start
1, 2, 5, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) PROMISE began his career with a win and followed it up with a 2nd place at this class and distance on October 5th when settling midfield and running on. He struggled when sent up to 1700M two weeks ago, but back at one turn today, he can return to winning ways. (11) MARU JANGGUN is a winner of two from four so far, most recently at this class and distance on October 13th. He comes up 2.5kg and has the challenge of the widest gate, but neither should be insurmountable, and he may start as the betting favourite. (10) YEONGWON FANTASTIC comes up in class following a maiden win at start number five on October 19th over 1200M. He tackles the 1400M for the first time but is lightly weighted and he can measure up. (7) GANGCHEOL JEONSA and (6) JURING SKY other chances.
Friday’s racing is at Busan with 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seo Seung-un returns at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens in the opener with four of the eight racing for the first time. After winning a trial, (8) D’LOVELY KING ran 2nd on debut over this distance on October 4th having sat handy and run on. He should have come on for the run and has every chance of going one better here. That can apply too to (7) DAEGIL HERO, who finished off very smartly for 3rd place on debut on October 20th. The time was similar to that of D’Lovely King and he can be a big danger late. Among the first timers, (5) DONGNAM DOLPUNG ran a decent time when racing on pace and the jockey booking is a positive. (1) FLEX ENGINE started slowly but finished off very well and 1200M first up may suit. Returning to the experience, (4) FLARE UP folded on debut after a promising start to the race and may improve.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Maiden fillies. (7) GEUMA DOMINANT has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far and while she was well beaten by an excellent winner in the latter of them on October 18th, she posted a good time. The returning Seo Seung-un climbs on and from a probably handy position, it can be third time lucky, and she will be a hot favourite. (9) FLY TO THE MOON was an improved 3rd at start number two on October 11th when racing on pace. Both of her outings so far have been over 1000M and the step up in trip may be in her favour. (8) CHEONGWAN has a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, the latter her first try at this distance three weeks ago. She will join the other two favourites in challenging for the early lead and can be in this a long way again. It’s hard to go past those three to fill out the trio but it’s not impossible that (10) HWARYEOHANJOMYEONG can improve or that (3) ROYAL WINNER, 3rd in a trial, can put in a good effort on debut.
Selections
(7) Geuma Dominant (9) Fly To The Moon (8) Cheongwan (10) Hwaryeohanjomyeong
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
4, 7, 8, 9
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Standard maiden. After running 4th on debut, (4) TRIPLE SINHWA stepped up to this distance at start number two on October 18th and having been sent off as favourite, led for much of the way around, ultimately finishing 2nd but beating a couple of today’s rivals. He draws the same gate again and this time shouldn’t be caught. (10) CHOGYEOKCHA has identical form with a 4th and a 2nd from two starts, both at 1200M. He has run on well, posting excellent final furlong times, and the step up in trip can suit. He shapes as the main danger. (2) PINOT POWER ran 4th behind Triple Sinhwa in that October 18th race and from another good draw, can continue his consistent run of form. (7) DORAON SAMSON and (11) B.K. MARON among plenty of others in the placing frame.
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(4) SEKWANG LIGHT broke through at start number two over 1300M on October 18th, settling midfield and running on strongly. He comes up in class and slightly in distance, but neither should be a problem, and he can win again. Also up in class is (6) DIXIE WINNER. She is yet to win but gets a rating as result of back-to-back runner-up finishes in her latest two, most recently at this distance on October 4th. Her style has been to come from off the pace so the additional half furlong may suit and under a light weight, she can measure up in this company. (3) ROSE DRAGON was a winner two starts back at this distance but was found lame (both forelegs) after a disappointing first try at this class on October 13th. She came back into work on November 2nd and fully fit, she can be much better this time around. The vastly experienced pair of (1) ZET CASH and (2) HWARANG ACE are others capable of picking up a prize in this kind of event.
Horse Racing in Korea 