Month: January 2025

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 26)

Racing will take a one week break, with the action not resuming until February 7. We head into the holiday with Sunday cards at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 16:30). Here are the previews:

Success Baekpa won two legs of the Triple Crown last year. He goes in the feature on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden to open with. (1) SMART A ONE was a front-running 3rd on debut over this distance back on October 26th. She had a setback after that (ligament strain) but has been back in work since early this month and from a good draw, she can be on pace and has every chance here. (3) GINSHARI BOY led on debut at this distance on December 22nd HE ultimately fell away and finished back in the pack, but he should have come on for that experience and can be in this for longer. (2) INDIAN TAPIT ran a fair 5th on debut at the end of last month and she too can have derived benefit from the experience. (10) TROLL and (6) NAEGILUI ACE others who could be in the minor money frame.

Selections(1) Smart A One (3) Ginshari Boy (2) Indian Tapit (10) Troll
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 11

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

(10) ECLIPSE BLACK will be the warm favourite. After a shaky debut, he has put together a run of 3rd, 4th and most recently 2nd when stepped up to this distance for the first time on December 28th. He will want to be on pace, so he has the challenge of a wide draw, but CC stays on and he is very much the one to beat. (8) UMA DACHI was slow away at start two in that same race on December 28th but ran on very nicely to finish in midfield. With a better start, he can get much closer this time. (3) KING WARRIOR enters off an improved 3rd place at 1300M on December 22nd when on pace throughout. He comes up to the 1400M for the first time and from a good draw, it can suit. Debut maker (1) CHRYSOL DONGHAE along with (9) CYCLONE STAR are others to consider.

Selections(10) Eclipse Black (8) Uma Dachi (3) King Warrior (1) Chrysol Donghae
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (6) FLYING DAY ran out a winner on debut over 1200M in a filly maiden on December 29th when racing handy throughout. She comes up in class and in distance here, but neither should be an issue, and she can maintain her 100% record. (10) STUNNING PEARL got her maiden win at start number two in November and then ran 2nd on her first try at this class on December 15th over 1300M. She comes up slightly in the weights, but the draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can maintain her record of never being outside of the top three. (7) GAMUN PARTY enters off a maiden win on December 29th. It was at this class, so she comes up a full 3.5kg in the weights, but she warrants respect. (5) SEMYEONG DIA and (2) GROW other placing chances.

Selections(6) Flying Day (10) Stunning Pearl (7) Gamun Party (5) Semyeong Dia
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies and mares only in the opening maiden on the south coast. (1) GLOBAL HEROINE ran 5th on debut before improving to 3rd at start number two over 1300M on December 27th, with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She led for much of the way that day and from the inside gate can so the same here and this time go all the way. (10) GWANGPUNG STAR has been 4th on both her outings so far, most recently behind Global Heroine in that December 27th race. She can settle back and run on and can be getting closer this time. (9) KKEUTPAN YEOGEOL improved to 4th at start two on November 29th. There isn’t much early speed in this race so she is one of the contenders to join Global Heroine on pace and she can be in this a long way. (8) WONDER MOCCASIN and (6) DOLPHIN KICK others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Global Heroine (10) Gwangpung Star (9) Kkeutpan Yeogeol  (8) Wonder Moccasin
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Competitive race. (6) SEOUL BINGO got her maiden win at start three over this distance on December 21st when ridden on pace for the first time. She comes up in class here but is down in the weights, Moon Se-young climbs on, and with similar tactics, she can win again. (8) SCALE KING got his maiden win at the eleventh time of asking at this class and distance on December 22nd, settling midfield and proving too strong. He comes up 3kg in the weights but can be competitive again and a danger late on. (7) BAEDARI KWAEGEOM saw her form go a little cold across last summer, but she finished off 2024 well with a 3rd and a 2nd. She comes in fresh off a nine-week lay off and can be in the mix again. (3) NAOL INDY and (5) WONPYEONG GWANGYA other minor money chances.

Selections(6) Seoul Bingo (8) Scale King (7) Baedari Kwaegeom (3) Naol Indy
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) YOUNG SKYWALKER was a beaten favourite three times before finally breaking through at the fourth time of asking on December 29th when racing handy and running on. That was at this class and distance so he does come up 3.5kg in weight, but in this company, he should be on or close to the pace and the force can be with him once more. It only took (10) TOHAMSAN TIGER two attempts to get his maiden win, which he did at this distance on January 5th. He makes a quick return here up in class but down in weight and he can measure up. (5) SWORD MASTER was an also-ran in the Breeders’ Cup Rookie for juveniles in November but bounced back to run 2nd at this class over a mile just before Christmas, albeit a long way behind a very good-looking winner. He comes back to the trip at which he got his win and Munro knows him well. (4) YONGBI PAEWANG finished 3rd in two Listed events as a juvenile last term and back down in trip can be given a chance. (9) WORLD WINNERS MAN another to consider on a place line.

Selections(7) Young Skywalker (10) Tohamsan Tiger (5) Sword Master (4) Yongbi Paewang
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8

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

(8) DREAM CARD returned from six months out in December and has run 3rd twice, both at this class and both over 1400M. He steps up to 1700M for the first time, but his style suggests it can suit and third up he can be peaking fitness wise. (6) SPEED CARA enters having beaten a few of these when an on-pace 3rd at this class over 1800M on December 28th. He is one for one at this distance and shapes as the main danger. (11) ELDORADO HEUNGBU was 4th in that race behind Speed Cara. He is yet to win in six attempts but should have derived benefit from his first go around two turns and can be there or thereabouts today. (1) LOVE O MINE and the up in class (3) LUCKY FAMOUS are others in the hunt.

Selections(8) Dream Card (6) Speed Cara (11) Eldorado Heungbu (1) Love O Mine
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) RICH TREE looks the one to beat here. After running 2nd at a mile two starts back, he stepped up to two turns for the first time on December 27th and after a slow start from a wide gate, ran on for 5th. He should have benefitted from that experience and from a slightly better gate and with a better start, he can win. That will mean overturning the form on (12) THE WIND, who ran 4th in that race, coming from well off the pace. The wide draw is no problem, Munro stays on, and he can be there or thereabouts again. (10) BLUE POINT is yet to win in twelve attempts but has been getting closer and comes in off a smart class and distance 2nd just two weeks ago. He is another who likes to settle back and run on, and he can be danger late. (3) FAT BOY and (1) HI CHAMP others in the placing frame.  

Selections(7) Rich Tree (12) The Wind (10) Blue Point (3) Fat Boy
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 25)

There’s an 11-race card at Seoul on Saturday from 10.35 to 18.00. Here are the previews:

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

Twelve unraced three-year-olds, nine of them fillies. The best in trials was (10) BITNARA, who after failing to qualify in May, came back at the start of this month and having settled midfield, ran through the line well for a close 3rd in a decent time If he brings that form to the races, he will take some beating. (9) FASHION STAR took a while to get going in her trial but finished off pleasingly enough clocking a fair time. The 1200M of the race should be better than the 1000M of the trial and she can run well first-up. (12) THUNDER FIRE is another who ran on from an unpromising position and can be considered. (6) GIDAEHARA showed on pace in her trial and while she weakened that’s enough to give her a chance here. (3) HAPPY FRIEND another who hinted at ability.

Selections(10) Bitnara (9) Fashion Star (12) Thunder Fire (6) Gidaehara
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported three-year-old maidens with two of them racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on both of those newcomers (8) GLORY YEONGGWANG, who led all the way to win his trial very comfortably in a quick time at the end of November. Ruan Maia has begun the year in great form, and he can continue here. (5) MIGHTY EVER trialed up on Boxing Day, settling midfield and running on well for 2nd in a good time given the conditions. The 1200M can suit first up and he can be a danger. Among the experienced, (10) GWANAKSAN BLACK led on debut over this distance on November 10th, ultimately coming home 5th. He has had eleven weeks off since so comes in fresh and with a bit of luck at the start, he can find a forward position. (9) TIARA SUA and (1) GRAY CANDY others who can improve.

Selections(8) Glory Yeonggwang (5) Mighty Ever (10) Gwanaksan Black (9) Tiara Sua
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Weak maiden. (8) MALSGO did precisely nothing in two starts in November and right at the beginning of December. He has though been back to trial since then and looked much better, running a close 2nd in a good time. If he brings that form in here, he can win. Debut-maker (7) CHRYSOL NIKE didn’t set the world alight in her trial but stuck to her task well enough to suggest she has potential. Kozzi is aboard, she draws nicely, and she should be available at an each-way price. (3) CHAMP HAMSEONG ran 5th on debut in November, and that’s probably enough for her to have favourite status here. She was poor on her second start but is worth another chance in this company. (10) CUPID WORLD and (11) CAPTAIN RISE others who may improve.

Selections(8) Malsgo (7) Chrysol Nike (3) Champ Hamseong (10) Cupid World
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Another modest maiden although this one is very competitive so should have plenty of interest. (7) SAVANA CHARLIE beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at this distance on December 29th, settling back and running on. It was an uptick in his recent form, and he has as much chance as any here. (9) FLYING LUCKY stepped up to 1700M for the first time in that December 29th race and ran a solid 4th place. She should have derived benefit from a first spin around two turns and under a similar weight and with Jeong Woo-ju, who is riding well lately, staying up, she can get closer. The pair of those have no wins from thirty-one starts between them so if you prefer one with more potential improvement then (4) EUNPA MUSIC could be it. He ran 5th in that December 29th race in what was his first try at 1700M and just his fifth race overall, and he can get better. (2) NAEGILUIYEONGGWANG has a 2nd place to his name over this distance and must be considered. (11) GHOST CHRYSOL another in the frame.

Selections(7) Savana Charlie (9) Flying Lucky (4) Eunpa Music (2) Naegiluiyeonggwang
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 24)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races at Busan from 11.25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Global Hit and Kim Hye-sun will be going around at Meydan on Friday night (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the first time. We will side with experience as (7) MEGA PLAY ran well on debut, overcoming a wide draw to eventually race handy and run on for 3rd place over this distance on December 22nd. That experience, and its potentially associated fitness edge, makes him the one to beat. Of the first timers, (12) QUEENS DRAGON went through two trials, improving significantly in terms of time in the second of them (a voluntary trial on December 14th behind Mother Road when clocking 62.8 seconds – beware, it may not appear on all racecards). She has the challenge of the widest gate but if she brings that form to the races, she is a chance. (8) STARTMAN raced handy in his trial, running on well for 2nd in a fair time and he too can put in a bold showing first up. Sole trial winner (10) DOCTOR LOUIS, along with (1) SPEED THIEF are others who hinted at ability in their respective heats.

Selections(7) Mega Play (12) Queens Dragon (8) Startman (10) Doctor Louis
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

A maiden for imported three-year-olds. (3) AMAZING KHAN ran 4th on debut on November 29th, beating a couple of these in the process, before improving to 2nd at start number two on December 27th, racing handy throughout and briefly leading close to the line. Crucially he had no fewer than seven of today’s rivals behind them, and from a good draw, he can be on pace and go one better. (2) EL CAZADOR was 3rd in that December 27th race, a big improvement from his debut. Like Amazing Khan, he runs for the third time so can have a fitness edge on most here and he draws a much better gate than in his first two outings. (1) MEETING ST has been 5th on both appearances to date, while (8) SELL LIKE was 4th in the September 27th race. The only one who didn’t race that day is the solitary debut maker. We will put (9) HIDDEN TIARA in the numbers because she looked well in two trials.

Selections(3) Amazing Khan (2) El Cazador (1) Meeting St (8) Sell Like
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

(11) FLYING ICE enters off a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, most recently beating plenty of these over this distance on December 29th when, as is his style, he settled right back and then ran on well. He does risk getting too far back, but he has to be favoured to go one better here. Should he leave himself too much to do, (5) SWORD WING can take advantage. After taking a few goes to figure things out, he has a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two, the latter being behind Flying Ice on December 29th. He too comes from off the pace and with only six starts behind him, may have some improvement.  If you think neither will get up, (4) YEOSU GUARDIAN may be the one to go for. He ran 3rd at this distance last time out and from a good draw can be on pace and force the favourites to try to come past. (7) DOCTOR CASTLE, who “lost interest” when favourite last time according to his jockey, and (9) SEOGWI PRINCESS are others in the frame.

Selections(11) Flying Ice (5) Sword Wing (4) Yeosu Guardian (7) Doctor Castle
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

One debut maker here, and (2) PLUTO did it very easily in his trial, cruising around on the bridle, leading all the way, and crossing the line plenty to the good. He draws beautifully, and if he brings that form to the races, he can win first up. (5) BEOLGYOUI HIM has mixed his form across four starts so far, with his best being his latest when 2nd at this distance on January 3rd, coming from off the pace. He makes a quick return here and he should be finishing strongly once more. (4) TOP OF THE TREE comes in off an improved 3rd place at start number three over this distance on November 17th. He comes in fresh after ten weeks out and from a good draw, can be on pace and in this a long way. (The form drops off significantly after those but Seo Seung-un climbing on (3) JEONGMUN FELIX will give him plenty of backers. (7) SUN JAE, who has been back to trial since debut, another minor money chance.

Selections(2) Pluto (5) Beolgyoui Him (4) Top Of The Tree (3) Jeongmun Felix
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

(10) MORNING DEW got his maiden win two starts back over this distance before running a close 3rd on his first try at this class on December 29th when settling midfield and running on. He draws a touch wider than ideal here, but he should have enough about him to get a forward position and if he does, he may take some beating. (3) SING FOR ME trialed up well and then ran out a winner on debut over this distance on December 27th, when slightly slowly away before being ridden up handy halfway and then running on. He comes up in class but comes down in weight and into a much better gate, and he can measure up in this company. (5) GRAND CHASER had a hard time last time out when wilting under a strong pace over 1400M. She comes back to the distance at which she got her win, and she is worth another chance here. (8) GOLDEN AIR and (12) DAEHOMA are others to consider.

Selections(10) Morning Dew (3) Sing For Me (5) Grand Chaser (8) Golden Air
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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GLOBAL HIT SET FOR G1 TEST AT MEYDAN FRIDAY

Global Hit will make his Meydan debut on Friday night and Korea’s sole representative at this year’s Dubai Racing Carnival has been handed an assignment as tough as they come in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge over 1900M.

Global Hit with jockey Kim Hye-sun, trainer Bang Dong-suk, and his grooms (Pic: KRA)

Taking part in the Carnival is a chance to be tested against the best, and if nothing else, GLOBAL HIT certainly has that chance in what is shaping up to be a terrific renewal of a race which serves as a step towards the Dubai World Cup, on what is set to be the best night’s card of flat racing anywhere in the world so far this year.

KABIRKHAN, who won this race a year ago returns to racing for the first time since last year’s World Cup, while FACTEUR CHEVAL, winner of the Dubai Turf last year, makes his dirt debut. IMPERIAL EMPEROR and WALK OF STARS both enter off impressive Meydan wins, and GENEROUS TIPPER makes his first Dubai start since being relocated from the United States. None of the others in a field of twelve are to be dismissed either. To make it an even harder ask, Global Hit has drawn gate twelve of twelve.

So, can Global Hit measure up in this type of company? Korea has been represented at each of the last two carnivals, but this is the first time since Dolkong in 2019 that a horse at the peak of his form has travelled. After Main Stay got Korea’s first Dubai win in a Sprint Handicap in 2017, two years later Dolkong won the Curlin Handicap and lined up in the World Cup itself.

Global Hit in the morning at Meydan (Pic: Sorim Lee)

Had a peak Dolkong and a peak Global Hit ever faced off on the Seoul sand, Global Hit would be the betting favourite among the local race going public. But that may not necessarily transfer to the very different dirt of Meydan.

Perhaps one way of assessing Global Hit is that he got within five-lengths of Wilson Tesoro, a top line JRA dirt horse, in the Korea Cup last year. Since returning to Japan, Wilson Tesoro has beaten Meisho Hario when winning and then finished 2nd to Lemon Pop and Forever Young. He would be among the top line of favourites were he in Meydan. Global Hit isn’t on that level, but he is not a million miles away.

A potential plus for Global Hit is his racing style. Korea-trained horses have frequently found the tempo of races at Meydan very different to that back home where the start of the race is usually fast, before they ease off slightly in mid race in advance of going hard for the line. Yet Global Hit’s way of jumping out fairly and then steadily ramping up the pressure, may well fit. In this scenario the wide draw may not be as much of a problem as it first appears. With Kabirkhan having drawn gate two, there should be plenty of pace on, so under a patient ride, Global Hit should have an opportunity to drop in as the field opens up before the first bend.

Global Hit is a five-year-old entire by Korea-based American sire To Honor And Serve (by Bernardini).  He is out of the Yankee Victor mare Tammy’s Victress, a winner of seven races during her career in the United States. Global Hit was bred by the Yeonhak Agricultural Company and was purchased by current owner Kim Joon-hyun for 50 Million Won as a yearling in 2001. He has gone on to accumulate 3.8 Billion Won in prize money.

After winning on his debut, Global Hit suffered an injury that curtailed his two-year-old season, and he didn’t make the opening leg of the Triple Crown in 2023. He returned to win the final two legs, the Korean Derby and the Minister’s Cup, and hasn’t looked back. He finished his three-year-old campaign with 2nd places to Winner’s Man in both the President’s Cup and Grand Prix Stakes, having finished midfield in his first Korea Cup.

2024 would see Global Hit dominate domestically, winning five of his seven starts and going one better in both the President’s Cup and Grand Prix. He also denied Japan a clean sweep of the places in the Korea Cup by running 3rd behind Crown Pride and Wilson Tesoro but beating Light Warrior. His only defeat during the year to a locally trained horse came by a nose at the hands of regular rival Tuhonui Banseok in the Busan Mayor’s Cup in May. In total he has ten wins from seventeen career starts.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 19)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul, with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00 and at Busan, where there are 6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Can Seirene return to winning ways? (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) NICE WINNER ran 5th on debut in October when slowly away, before improving to 2nd at start number two on December 7th when leading for much of the way around. He will lead again here and will be the warm favourite to go one better. Second favourite will be (1) IMRO. After a fair trial, he ran a solid 4th of eleven over this distance on debut on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. He should have come on for that run and from a great draw, can get closer this time. (5) MUNHAK CHUKJE came from off the pace on his debut to run 4th. He too can have derived benefit from that experience and can improve here. (9) WONDERFUL CATHAY and (2) JOSE others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Nice Winner (1) Imro (5) Munhak Chukje (9) Wonderful Cathay
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 11

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

Moon Se-young will be aboard another short price favourite. (11) GRAND KWAEMA has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from three starts so far, most recently at this distance on December 14th when settling midfield and running on. He has the fastest time among these for the 1300M and won’t need to improve much to win here. (10) YEOMYEONGUI SUNGAN was an encouraging 4th on debut at 1200M on December 7th, settling back and running on. She drew the same wide gate that day and the slight step up in trip can suit. (5) COMMAND BLUE has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and she can continue to make progress here. (9) BREEDO KING STAR and (3) CHEONGRYONGUI CAL among others in the placing frame.

Selections(11) Grand Kwaema (10) Yeomyeongui Sungan (5) Command Blue (9) Breedo King Star
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 11

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

Moon Se-young could really be having a proper day out early on Sunday as he is on another warm favourite here in the shape of (11) DRAGON KILLER. He came from well off the pace to run 2nd on debut over 1200M on December 22nd and while he once more draws wide, the way he finished off suggests that the additional half furling can be in his favour and he can go one better today. (7) RAON NOTHERN DANCE got a long way back on debut but has since run 3rd and 4th, most recently over this distance on December 22nd. He can settle just behind the speed and be a danger here. (6) HEUNGHAENG DOLPUNG has finished midfield in both starts so far but is another who may benefit from a slightly increased trip and third-up, he can be peaking fitness wise. (9) MERIT SUNSHINE and (3) CHRYSOL MAJOR others to consider.

Selections(11) Dragon Killer (7) Raon Nothern Dance (6) Heunghaeng Dolpung (9) Merit Sunshine
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (8) B.K DANCING GIRL was an eye-catching trial winner, causing her to be sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on November 29th. She led for most of the way but ultimately got caught and ended up in 3rd place. She’s had seven weeks off since then, she should lead again, and this time she can go all the way. It’s not a strong set of rivals. (7) COME ON GLORY and (5) ROAD TO SPRING came home 5th and 6th when they raced each other on the latter’s debut on December 13th. The former has races once since, struggling over 1400M two weeks ago, but back at this trip both can be in the place hunt. (11) QUEEN TYCHE and (2) WONDER ROAD others who may improve without really inspiring much confidence.

Selections(8) B.K Dancing Girl (7) Come On Glory (5) Road To Spring (11) Queen Tyche
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (7) TOHOMARKET is yet to win in eleven attempts but after back-to-back runner-up finishes to get promoted to this level, she has finished no worse than 4th in four class 5 outings. In this company, she can sit just behind the speed and today could be her day. (5) RED DRAGON came from well off the pace to win over 1200M on her debut on December 14th. She comes up in class and marginally in trip, but she is down in the weights, draws well, and Moon climbs on. (10) SINHAN ACE was runner-up on debut but got her maiden win at start number two on December 21st, over 1200M. She too comes up in class and distance but is down in weight and can measure up. (3) TOUCH CHARM and (8) QUEEN ABIGAIL are the other logical placing chances.

Selections(7) Tohomarket (5) Red Dragon (10) Sinhan Ace (3) Touch Charm
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

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

(1) TOHAMSAN TAEYANG was a much-improved 2nd over 1300M on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. She comes up to 1400M for the first time today and with a bit more improvement, she can go one better. (2) RIGHT CHAMP has been knocking on the door across her five starts to date with the best being a 2nd place at this distance. She was slow away last time but draws better here to be on pace and is a real chance. (9) BLACK EQUUS got a long way back on debut but ran on pleasingly enough for a midfield finish. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can go closer today. (7) WORLD TAEYANG and (5) HANEULPYEONGJEONG are the other place chances.

Selections(1) Tohamsan Taeyang (2) Right Champ (9) Black Equus (7) World Taeyang
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 18)

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 30 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener and (10) SEOMDOLMORU will be the hot favourite. After an inauspicious debut, she was a much better 2nd over this distance on December 14th, racing handy and nearly getting up. She won’t need to improve a lot on that to win here. (8) MISS FAMOUS beat a couple of these on her way to 4th place on debut in a similar race to this on December 21st and looks to be the main danger. That pair were (5) GOOD FRIEND and (2) NAMSAN SONYEO who came home 6th and 7th respectively although both showed enough then and in their prior trials, to suggest they can get better. There are two debut-makers and (7) LA FESTA perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(10) Seomdolmoru (8) Miss Famous (5) Good Friend (2) Namsan Sonyeo
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 10

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

(5) BEAUTIFUL HWASEONG has been getting closer in his latest few, culminating in a 2nd place on what was his first try at this distance on December 21st, when he raced on pace and beat a couple of today’s rivals. The same apprentice keeps his weight nice and light and he is the one to beat here. (8) TRES VITE was 3rd in that race, his best finish in twenty-six outings. He too has been getting progressively closer in recent starts and can go one better today in what is, frankly, one of the weaker maidens you will find at Seoul. (1) CHOCO BEAUTY has a 2nd place on her record as recently as October and can be running on late. (6) BLACK RUSSIAN and (2) YONGBI KING, the latter 4th in that December 21st race, are other placing chances.

Selections(5) Beautiful Hwaseong (8) Tres Vite (1) Choco Beauty (6) Black Russian
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

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

Another short-priced favourite in the shape of (6) EAST GANGJEOK. After finishing 5th on debut, he has since registered back-to-back 3rd places at 1200M and last time this trip on December 14th. He’ll be on pace, Ruan Maia climbs on, and today should be the day. (9) CHANGJOUI GIDONG returned from six months out on December 21st to run a fair 6th of eleven over 1400M. Before the layoff he managed a 2nd and a 3rd and stripping fitter today, he can be a threat. (11) CHOWOLMA has hinted at ability in two outings to date, most recently 5th behind East Gangjeok in that December 14th race. The wide draw shouldn’t prove a problem, and he can continue to improve. The form drops off considerably after those three, with (1) LADY BLUE and (5) BLACK SMILE perhaps best of the rest.

Selections(6) East Gangjeok (9) Changjoui Gidong (11) Chowolma (1) Lady Blue
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Since getting his maiden win at start three over 1200M in October, (10) MORE THAN JOKE has been a beaten favourite in two attempts at this class, running 2nd and then 3rd at this distance, most recently on December 21st. In this company he should be on pace, and he can make it third time lucky here. (4) UGWANGMYEONG was a winner on debut on December 22nd having drawn the widest gate and then gone right back before swooping home. He comes up in class and marginally in trip here, but he can measure up. (3) PHANTOM DRAGON races for the first time since his maiden win last July. He looked well on a December trial and from a good draw, can be in the mix first up. (2) ASSI JANGGUN and (5) ECLIPSE EDGE others to consider.

Selections(10) More Than Joke (4) Ugwangmyeong (3) Phantom Dragon (2) Assi Janggun
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 17)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11.25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) GLOBAL HIGH ran 3rd on debut in November and followed it up with a 2nd place on December 22nd when slow out and wide early before running on well. He comes into a better gate today and in likely peak fitness at start three, he can go one better. (1) BURUI PYEONGHWA has shown signs of figuring things out in his latest two, racing on pace both times before finishing 4th and 6th but beating a couple of today’s rivals in the latter of those. From the inside gate he can get a sift run to the lead here and can be in the finish. (7) CHOEGANG TRIPLE ran 4th on debut and was sent off as favourite in that December 22nd race with Global High. He had a poor day at the office, running 7th, but based on that opening effort can be given another chance here. (2) CRUELLA and (11) SIX HERO others to consider for improvement.

Selections(5) Global High (1) Burui Pyeonghwa (7) Choegang Triple (2) Cruella
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 11

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

(5) MATONGNYEONG came from off the pace to run 2nd on debut over 1300M on December 27th. In keeping with most races at Busan at the moment, the time wasn’t quick, but he showed enough to suggest he has potential and with some natural improvement, as well as stepping up to 1400M, he can win. (2) CANCAN STEP has a 2nd and a 3rd in her latest two, with the former coming in her only previous try at 1400M. She draws nicely here to be ridden forward in a race devoid of much early speed, and she can be a danger. (7) SEUNGCHUNHANEUNHAE has raced twice, finishing 4th on both occasions. The increase in trip can suit and he can get closer today. (3) SUCCESS COW and (9) SEUNGNI CHANSA are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(5) Matongnyeong (2) Cancan Step (7) Seungchunhaneunhae (3) Success Cow
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

(1) SHANGHAI THUNDER didn’t do much on debut but was much improved at start number two over 1200M on December 15th, when settling midfield and running on. From the inside gate and in this company, he can be further forward much earlier here, and he can make it third time lucky. (11) COWBOY MAN has a 2nd and a 3rd to his name at 1400M and a mile. He was sent off as favourite for his latest start December 20th but got hampered early and then caught in kickback, which he did not seem to enjoy, and ultimately finished 6th of twelve. He has the challenge of a wide draw here but if he can find a forward position, he has every chance. (12) DONGNAM DOLPUNG improved to 4th at start number two at 1200M on December 12th. He drew similarly wide last time and can be a danger late on. (7) B.K DREAM and (4) GOLDEN SPOT other minor money hopes.

Selections(1) Shanghai Thunder (11) Cowboy Man (12) Dongnam Dolpung (7) B.K Dream
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (6) SWEET BEOMHAN returned from over seven months off to run a fair 5th of twelve in a similar race to this over 1200M on December 8th. She should have derived benefit from that run, she got her win at this distance, and she can return to winning ways here. (8) ALICE MARINE is yet to win in twenty but has no fewer than fifteen top five finishes. They include a 2nd and a 4th among her latest three starts and this is the kind of race she can find the money in, most probably coming from off the pace. (11) CATCH THE DREAM was a well beaten favourite last time out on December 20th when she got bumped about early and then put in an effort her jockey described as “timid”. We’ll go on her opening two efforts when winning at 1200M and then running 4th over 1400M and give her another chance here. (9) FLYING BABY and (3) SMART SMILE other place chances.

Selections(6) Sweet Beomhan (8) Alice Marine (11) Catch The Dream (9) Flying Baby
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 11

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

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (January 12)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 16:30). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maiden fillies in the opener. Two race for the first time and we’ll take a chance on one of them with (1) BISANG DAY. She qualified with a solid 3rd place in a December trial in a fair time having led through the early stages. She draws nicely to lead here and couldn’t ask for a softer race to debut in. The favourite will be (10) UNJU TIME. She ran a solid 4th of eleven on debut over this distance in a similar filly only maiden on December 14th, settling back and running on. She should have derived benefit from that and with some natural improvement, has every chance. (3) KARA K improved to 5th at start number two over 1000M in October. She comes in here fresh after thirteen weeks out and can be in the mix here. (9) HIGH CLASS and the other debut maker (8) POWER BAND are others to consider.

Selections(1) Bisang Day (10) Unju Time (3) Kara K (9) High Class
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) HYEUKMUSANG got promoted to this class with back-to-back runner-up finishes in his first two outings, both at 1200M, before running 6th in a competitive race on his first try at this class on November 30th. The slight step up in trip can suit, Kozzi climbs on, and he can win here. (9) WANGCHOEGO is also yet to win but comes up in class following a very narrow defeat in a decent time over 1200M on December 7th. He finished off very well so should be ready for another crack at this distance and down in the weights, has every chance of going close. (1) CUPID HEART was a maiden winner at start four over 1200M on December 14th. It wasn’t a quick race, but he won well and can measure up in this company. (8) JURING SKY and (4) WONDERFUL SEEKING others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Hyeukmusang (9) Wangchoego (1) Cupid Heart (8) Juring Sky
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap

(5) ECLIPSE THE KING got his maiden win at start number four on December 8th when he raced on pace for the first time and went on to score comfortably over 1300M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be an issue, and he can win again here. (2) GANGNARU ran 3rd in his first two starts before getting his maiden win at outing three on December 14th, racing handy throughout over 1300M. He already has a place at this distance to his name and up in class but well drawn, he can more than measure up. (10) APPLE STYLE will need a line drawn through his first effort at this class, but he is a winner at this distance as recently as November and CC climbing up is in his favour. (9) B.K. BELLE and (7) PINK GOLD others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Eclipse The King (2) Gangnaru (10) Apple Style (9) B.K. Belle
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) WANNABE WITH YOU came from off the pace to run 3rd on debut in a filly only maiden on December 8th. She should have come on for that experience, the additional trip can suit, and she is the one to beat. Her debut was perhaps marginally more impressive than that of (9) INDY GHOST. Nevertheless, the latter acquitted herself when similarly 3rd first up over 1300M on December 20th, also settling back and running on. She too should appreciate the slight step up in trip and she is the main danger. (6) CARIBBEAN BAY was 4th n debut and then beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 6th of twelve over 1300M on December 13th and that’s enough to make him clear third pick here. (2) FAST QUEEN and (1) GLORY WIND other minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Wannabe With You (9) Indy Ghost (6) Caribbean Bay (2) Fast Queen
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 11

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

(9) WESTERN GUN was a dominant winner on debut over 1400M in October before running 2nd on his first try at this class, again over the seven-furlongs, on his first try at this class on December 14th, racing handy. He steps up to two turns for the first time, but there is no reason why it can’t suit, and he is very much the one to beat. (10) MK LEE enters following three consecutive 3rd place finishes at this class and distance. He has the challenge of the widest gate but he does have the fastest time among these for the 1700M and should be in the mix again. (11) K POWERFUL was 4th being Western Gun in that December 14th race and he also steps up to two turns for the first time. The widest gate isn’t ideal, but if he can find a decent position early, he can be in the finish. (1) MAX WEEK and (2) GANDAGO, both last start winners, the former at this class and distance, are others to consider.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 11)

Its been a very cold week in Seoul although it should warm up a little before the weekend program gets underway. There are 11 races on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. The experience is by and large good though and (8) AFLEET RUN will be the favourite. He raced handy on debut over 1200M on December 8th ultimately running home in 3rd place. He should have derived benefit from that experience and won’t need to improve too much to win this. Nor though will (12) TAPDINE. After winning a November trial, he led for much of the way on his debut on December 1st, ultimately finishing 3rd. He has the challenge of the widest gate, but he should be equal to it. (10) BEOLGYO LAVA has raced twice, finishing 4th on both occasions. Her times haven’t been quick, but she should have a fitness edge on the newcomers and can be close. Of those first-time starters (1) BAEKDU ILSEONG and (9) JECHUK LOG IN looked the best in trials.

Selections(8) Afleet Run (12) Tapdine (10) Beolgyo Lava (1) Baekdu Ilseong
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Three-year-old imported maidens here and (2) PALATINO will be the hot favourite. After running 2nd on debut in November, he beat three of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place over 1300M on December 14th. He’ll be on pace here and while he was the beaten favourite that day, it would be a big surprise if he falls short again. Naming your horse (5) WINNING CHAMPION is a bold move but he did offer a hint of promise on debut when 5th over 1200M in a quick race back at the end of October. He comes in fresh after eleven weeks off and can get closer today. There are a couple of first-time starters and (6) SAINT RUNNER came from off the pace to run on well in his trial and 1200M first up can suit. (8) ACE K and (1) BAKCHARA may improve.

Selections(2) Palatino (5) Winning Champion (6) Saint Runner (8) Ace K
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

(6) GWANGGYOUI GISANG debuted with a 3rd place in November and followed up with a 2nd on December 14th when he led for most of the way around over 1300M. In this company he will be on pace, and he won’t need to be much better to go one better here. After an ordinary debut, (9) HIGH CROWN has since registered a 2nd and a 4th from two subsequent appearances, both over this distance. He can settle behind the speed here and can challenge late. (11) DIXIE MAN ran 3rd on debut at this distance and while he weakened having shown close to the front on his second start on December 15th, Moon Se-young stays up and he can be given another chance. (5) WONDERFUL ALONG and (4) MYEONG POWER the other main placing chances.

Selections(6) Gwanggyoui Gisang (9) High Crown (11) Dixie Man (5) Wonderful Along
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden. (8) DRAGON K enters off his best to date on December 14th when he beat a couple of these with a front running effort on his way to 2nd place. He will be on pace here and has as much chance as any of going one better. (4) I AM GO has finished no worse than 5th in four attempts so far with her best being a runner-up finish over 1000M back in July. She had four months off after that and has a 5th and a 4th in her two starts back. Third-up she can be peaking fitness wise and Moon Se-young staying on will tempt plenty. (7) SPARTAN has two 3rd places from his latest three and seems to be figuring things out at last. He likes to lead, and he can be in this a long way. (11) MG FIRST and (3) CHUPUNGNYEONG, the latter finishing off very strongly last time out having gone right back and who can be peaking at start three, are others to keep safe.

Selections(8) Dragon K (4) I Am Go (7) Spartan (11) MG First
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (1) GOLD QUEENS came from off the pace on debut to score over 1200M on November 16th. It wasn’t a quick race, but she did what was asked of her in fine fashion and while she is up in class, she carries a light weight, and she can measure up. (5) GEUNYANG GARA beat Gold Queens in a trial last October and got her maiden win over 1200M in November. She had a poor day at the office on her latest when weakening late over 1300M just before Christmas, but she can be given another chance here. (3) ONEULDO SMILE won on debut over 1000M in August. She hasn’t raced since but she looked well enough when going through a Boxing Day trial and from a good draw can be in the hunt. (8) ANDAMIRO and (4) ROYAL PLUS others to consider. 

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 10)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens with ten of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) UNLIMITED RUN was the fastest in trials, leading for most of the way around and ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place. He draws well to be on pace, and he has every chance first up. (6) OASIS WICKY is the only trial winner in the field, and he overcame a bad start to do it, running on very pleasingly. The 1200M can suit and he is a real threat. (7) SEOGUI WORLD came through the same trial as Oasis Wicky, showing on the lead before crossing the line 4th and he is another who can be on speed and in this a long way. (5) GREAT TOP and (12) ARIONUI GEOM, the latter having run 5th on debut in a very slow race, others to consider.  

Selections(4) Unlimited Run (6) Oasis Wicky (7) Seogui World (5) Great Top 
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

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

(8) BEOLGYO WANGCHO has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at this distance on December 8th when he led for much of the way, only to get passed late. That day’s winner went on to run 3rd at class 5 level and in this company, Beolgyo Wangcho should be going one better this time. Nothing else has shown much so we might as well give a chance to one of the first timers. (12) THUNDER PASSION took three goes to qualify although he did win a heat along the way on a decent time and that’s enough to give him a chance of the places here. (10) FANTASTIC HIT hinted at ability with a 4th place at 1000M last summer but then didn’t reappear until December 20th when he showed on pace but weakened. He can strip fitter here and go closer. (11) DONGBANG JEONSA and (6) BABEL COME ON other minor money chances.

Selections(8) Beolgyo Wangcho (12) Thunder Passion (10) Fantastic Hit (11) Dongbang Jeonsa
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

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

Fillies only in this maiden. After a positive trial, (8) ROCK CANDY put in a fine effort for 2nd place on debut over 1200M on December 13th coming from off the pace to almost get up. She should have come on for that run, the slight step up in trip can suit, and she can go one better. (6) EMPIRE DAY was sent off as favourite for that December 13th race and having raced handy, finished a solid 3rd. That came almost a full six-months after her debut in June, when 2nd over 1000M, so she too can strip fitter here and she is a danger. (3) CHRYSOL HERO has much more experience and has looked significantly better since returning from five months out in October. She has a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts back, coming from off the pace both times and third-up she may well be peaking today. (10) PURE MARINE and (2) GREAT MARU others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Rock Candy (6) Empire Day (3) Chrysol Hero (10) Pure Marine
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive, if not very strong race. (5) USANG RYUNG has placed twice at this distance, at which she also has the fastest time among these. She likes to settle back and run on and today can be her day. She can at least overturn the form on (8) JOJOBA, who defied 50/1 odds to beat three of these on her way to a best in twelve starts 3rd place on December 13th, including Usang Ryung, who was 5th. Coming in under the same conditions, she will warrant more respect today. (3) DAEJI DAEBONG has only raced three times and has a pair of 5th places to his name. He hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but the step up in trip may suit and Franco climbing on means he can worth a chance at an each-way price. (2) PINOT POWER and (10) BAEDARI BOSEOK are others who will be in the market.

Selections(5) Usang Ryung (8) Jojoba (3) Daeji Daebong (2) Pinot Power
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 10, 11

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

After a disappointing debut in September, (2) ARION KING CAR came back for start number two on December 6th and led every step of the way to score over 1200M. He comes up in class and slightly in distance, but he draws very nicely, and he can go back-to-back. (8) TAMNA SUPER got his maiden win two starts back before running a fair 5th of twelve on his first try at this class over 1400M on December 13th. In this company he can be a little further forward today and should be in this a long way. (5) DREAM WAY is yet to win in thirteen tries but has plenty of experience at this level and enters off a smart 4th place over 1200M on December 13th when he got a long way back before finishing off very pleasingly. Seo Seung-un gets on today and he can go closer. (1) STRIDING MAN and (4) ONE WAY ROAD, the latter second-up following seven months out, are others to consider.

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