Author: gyongmaman

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 3)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Moon Se-young, Jang Chu-youl and Kim Yong-geun are suspended while Antonio Da Silva, Lim Gi-won, Choi Bum-hyun, Yoo Seung-wan, Park Eul-woon, Park Tae-jong, Lee Hyeok, Jo In-kwon and Lee Dong-ha are all in Busan to ride in Sunday’s Korean Oaks so Song Jae-chul, Johan Victoire and David Breux look to be the jockeys to follow. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Nine juveniles all make their racecourse debuts. The only trial winner among them is (1) THE PLAYER, who sat handy in his heat before running on well.  The time was fair and from a good gate he has solid chances and is the probable warm betting favourite. (6) MAGIC WITH YOU didn’t win his trial, but he did record the fastest time among these when showing prominently throughout and crossing the line 2nd. He should be on pace here and be in this a long way. (3) SMART CLAIR finished off his trial well having settled back in the field. That was a big improvement on an April heat when he failed to qualify and if he keeps on the same trajectory, he can go close first up here. (9) SEOUL DOLPUNG and (8) BAEKDU DAEMUL look the next best coming out of trials.

Selections(1) The Player (6) Magic With You (3) Smart Clair (9) Seoul Dolpung
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Three-year-old maidens. After running 5th on debut, (9) SILVER PURGE was an improved 2nd at start number two on April 29th having raced much further forward. She comes into a wider gate here but should have enough about her early on to get on or close to the speed and she can win here. (1) MY THUNDER has been 3rd in both starts so far, both at this distance. Last time she overcame gate ten to sit handy and with a much better draw this time, she can get closer. She will probably start as favourite. (2) MENI CHARM was ordinary on his latest effort on April 30th when 7th of ten but the time before he was a very close 2nd at this distance in a fair time when stalking the lead throughout. On that performance, he warrants a chance here. (7) SEONGSIL TAEYANG and (10) GEOSEON CHAMP are among others to consider.

Selections(9) Silver Purge (1) My Thunder (2) Meni Charm (7) Seongsil Taeyang
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden with just one colt alongside nine fillies and a mare. (1) RED TAEPUNG Is the one to beat based on her last start 2nd over 1400M on April 30th when she settled at the front of midfield and finishing off well for a narrow defeat. She has run fairly at this distance as well and from the inside gate, her jockey can pick his spot. The solitary colt, (3) GRAND SILVER comes in off an improved 3rd at start number four over 1200M on April 2nd. He has also run a decent time over this distance, albeit on a wet track, and from a good draw, he should be going close again. (7) SEUNGNI GONGJU has shown improvement across her three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place over 1200M on May 7th when finishing off well. The step back up to 1300M can suit today. (10) CHALLANHAN BULKKOT and (4) QUEEN TOP among others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Red Taepung (3) Grand Silver (7) Seungni Gongju (10) Challanhan Bulkkot
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start6, 9, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) SUNGAN TOUCH enters with recent form reading well, including a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, both at this class and distance and both in quick times. In this company he should be able to get on or close to the speed and he can return to winning ways here. (6) TOUR QUEEN shapes as the main danger. Her win came at 1000M but at her last start, she was an on-pace runner-up over 1400M. She only comes up 1kg in the weights, she draws nicely, and she can be challenging Sungan Touch right from the start. (11) DALMAJI and (9) WONPYEONG CHUKJE both come up in class having finished 1st and 2nd with a length between them when they race each other over this distance at class 6 level on May 7th. Both will need to go a bit quicker this time, but both come down significantly in the weights and could measure up. (10) CHEONDUNGSEJA another in the frame.

Selections(8) Sungan Touch (6) Tour Queen (11) Dalmaji (9) Wonpyeong Chukje
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) YEONGWON FIGHTER will be one of the shortest priced favourites of the day. He won on debut at class 6 level in February before running 2nd over this distance on his first try at this class on April 22nd when he led for much of the way around before being beaten two-lengths by Jangsan Spo, who has since won at class 4 level. He draws well here, and it would be a surprise if anything caught him this time. Clear second choice is (9) ARGO TAP. While still winless, he has seven top-five finishes from eight starts and was a close 4th from a wide draw in a good time at this distance last time out. He is probably going to find one too quick here again, but it could just be the one. (6) BEST CLONE is also winless but comes up in class following a pair of close runner-up finishes at this distance. His times have been good, and he can be on pace here and in this a long way. (7) GREEN SHIELD and the up in class last start winner (1) SEOUL SPURT are others likely to attract support.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 2)

It’s Korean Oaks weekend in Busan. The filly Classic takes place on Sunday but the weekend starts with a seven-race card on Friday from 12:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens with eight of the eleven racing for the very first time. (6) MAGARITA is a striking grey Hansen filly who was held together very nicely in her trial on May 13th which she won having been prominent throughout and beating three of her fellow debut-makers here. She should be on the speed and can make a winning debut. Raon are seemingly running out of names but (7) RAON THE AGAIN matched Magarita almost stride for stride in that May 13th trial and crossed the line just half a length in arrears. A bold showing first up is possible and she too should be on pace. (3) ROAD TO MAGIC was a trial winner in April, leading most of the way around. He draws very well here and is another first-timer with claims. Among the experienced ones (1) HAERANG ISEUL looks the best. She ran 2nd on debut in March over this distance having raced handily and should have benefited from the experience. (4) LADY VADER is another with the potential to improve.

Selections(6) Magarita (7) Raon The Again (3) Road To Magic (1) Haerang Iseul
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) SOUTHERN JOY will be a warm favourite here. She has five top-four finishes from six starts to date and as posted fair times over this distance. In this company and with a good draw, she should be on the early speed and will take some beating. (8) FANTASTIC TIME didn’t do much in two starts around the turn of the year but was much improved on her reappearance after almost four months off on May 12th. She raced on the pace for the first time and came home a solid 4th. She should strip fitter for that run and can go closer this time. (7) UNJU GLOBAL has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two with a 2nd and a 4th. Both at this distance and both times showing at the front. She’ll be challenging for the lead again and should be in this a long way. (1) VICTOR BASIUM and (11) SILK FASHION ROAD among others in the minor money frame.

Selections(5) Southern Joy (8) Fantastic Time (7) Unju Global (1) Victor Basium
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) TTANBONG QUEEN comes back in trip following a good 4th over a mile on April 30th when she led for part of the way. At the start before she was 2nd over this distance in a time much quicker than any of her rivals here have achieved and she should have too much. That will mean overturning the form on (1) EONJENA YEONGUNG, who was 2nd in that April race at a mile. A twenty-four-start maiden, that may not change here but from a good gate, if he can get a better start than he usually does, he can be a danger again. (4) SKY SEUNG had nine months between her first two starts but should be fitter for her reappearance on April 28th when she settled handy and ran 5th at this distance. She carries a light weight, draws well, and can get closer. (10) SOLEDAD and (11) BORA CHAMP are other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Ttanbong Queen (1) Eonjena Yeongung (4) Sky Seung (10) Soledad
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (3) SEOGWI FLASH remains a maiden but has been getting closer and enters off a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two, both in good times over this distance. She comes up in class here, but the opposition isn’t intimidating and from a good gate, she can make her breakthrough. (2) STELL LUNA has raced on pace in her latest two and ran a good 3rd over this distance on May 7th. From a great draw she can get an easy run to the lead here and can be in this a long way. (6) FOLK ROCK came from off the pace to get her maiden win over 1200M on May 7th. She comes up in class here, but the distance can suit, and she can measure up. (4) HAPPY TAEYANG is another up in class who can be competitive and along with (8) FLYING TOUCH, can be considered for the places.  

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 28)

Sunday’s racing is at both Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:50 to 16:30). No Stakes races but plenty to get stuck into. The forecast is for rain throughout the weekend so if you’re coming bring an umbrella and if you’re playing be sure to check out the wet track form:

Ranut bis for four in a row in Seoul Race 7 (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

The capital’s first juvenile race of the year so all eleven are racing for the first time. (3) HANGANG CROWN was the standout in trials, leading her heat all the way around and stopping the clock in the quickest time. She draws nicely and she will be favourite. (7) GEOLJAK ONE and (2) YONGAM SESANG also won their respective heats and in identical times. Geoljak One perhaps had the slightly easier time of it and of the two is marginally preferred. (11) ECLIPSE BERRY didn’t win her trial, but she ran well, crossing the line 2nd behind an experienced older horse and without being pushed too much. Moon Se-young’s appointment will lead plenty to come down on her side. Going on times, (8) JANGGUN GARAM is another who has a chance first-up although as we saw in Busan’s equivalent race on Friday, a lot can happen between trial and debut.

Selections(3) Hangang Crown (7) Geoljak One (2) Yongam Sesang (11) Eclipse Berry
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens here. (9) DAONDI has finished 5th in both starts so far but did show some improvement in the most recent of them. He has run through the line strongly enough and with a little more improvement may have winning claims here. (4) BIG BLED has shown progress across her three starts culminating with her 3rd place at this distance at her latest on April 9th. Her times haven’t been impressive but, in this company, she could well get to the front, and she won’t need to be much quicker to go very close here. (6) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK made little impression from a wide draw last time out but if we go on his 4th place at this distance two starts back, he warrants consideration. In a race this weak the debut-makers must be examined. (7) SEONGEUN RISING won her trial and while the time wasn’t fast, that’s enough to give her a chance. (1) STEALTH PARK another who may improve.

Selections(9) Daondi (4) Big Bled (6) Sidaeui Myeongjak (7) Seongeun Rising
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Quite a good-looking maiden with plenty looking as though they have a win in them. (4) CLAIR QUEEN is one of them. She comes in off her best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on April 22nd when ridden more forward than she had been previously. From a good draw similar tactics can be expected today, and she can go one better. (5) SSEULMO has seemingly figured things out in his latest two, with a 3rd and a 2nd. Both times he led until the closing stages, and he seems sure to be on pace and in this a long way again. (3) RAON JUMP has the fastest time among these for the distance, achieved when 5th last time out on April 29th when the track was producing some quick races. She has tended to leave herself too much to do but should be finishing off well and can run into a place. (8) MAGUMA is another who will be doing his best work late on and he already has a 2nd place to his name. Solitary debut-maker (7) COSMO RUN improved in his second trial when he ran 2nd behind a class 1 horse. If he brings that form to the races, he can go well first-up.

Selections(4) Clair Queen (5) Sseulmo (3) Raon Jump (8) Maguma
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Having bolted up in a February trial, (9) KALJABI was sent off as favourite on debut on March 5th. He showed towards the front but ultimately finished 4th. He should have come on for that experience and after a further twelve-weeks off, he can be given another chance. The main danger is in the adjoining gate. (10) ROSE BLADE was also well backed on debut on April 30th following a promising trial, and he delivered with a good 3rd place over this distance, settling just forward of midfield and running on. He should have derived benefit from the run and can go closer here. (5) WAITING FOR YOU did little in her first two outings but was an improved 3rd in her latest on April 21st when racing handy throughout. That will probably be enough to make her third-favourite here. (1) SUCCESS FRONT and (4) HAENGBOK CHUKJE the most likely among the rest to improve.

Selections(9) Kaljabi (10) Rose Blade (5) Waiting For You (1) Success Front
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) MAUIWAY got his win when practically making all over 1200M in January. Since then, he has raced twice at this level running 5th and most recently 3rd, both times having settled back in the pack. He has a nice draw here and can sit behind the early speed and run on. (6) FIJI BLADE is still a maiden but comes up in class having finished as runner-up in both her starts so far, both at 1200M. She comes down in the weights and should be on pace and while she may find one too quick again, she can certainly measure up in this company. (4) SAENAE KHAN got his maiden win at this distance at class 6 level in February. He has two 4th places in two goes at this level and should be in at least the placing mix again. (7) CLUB D and (3) SUPREME STAR are others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Mauiway (6) Fiji Blade (4) Saenae Khan (7) Club D
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) FANTASTIC CHAMP debuted last May but wasn’t seen again until March when he got his maiden win at this distance. He went up to 1300M for his first try at class 5 on April 28th and while he showed prominently, he ultimately finished 5th. Third-up this preparation he may well be at peak fitness and back at 1200M he can win this. (9) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT is yet to win in twelve attempts but ran well for his fourth runner-up finish at class and distance on April 14th when close to the pace throughout. At the start before he came from off the pace to dead-heat for 3rd so he is versatile, and he can be a danger here. (4) TAEYANG EUTTEUM has the fastest time of any of these at the distance, record when 3rd – a long way behind a good winner – on May 5th. She remains lightly weighted and merits at least a place chance. (1) GOLD ROSE and the returning (6) WORLD FIVE, are other potentials.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 26)

It’s a rare Stakes-free weekend but there is still plenty to keep punters occupied. Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews :

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (1) NAOL ROONEY was a solid 4th on debut at this distance on April 23rd, racing in pace throughout. She draws well to be on the pace again and with some natural improvement from that run, she can win. (6) WONPYEONG KINGDOM shapes as the main danger. He’s run 3rd in both starts so far, both times on pace and at 1300M and 1200M. He too will be challenging for the early lead and any top=three finish will see him up to class 5 next time. It could be a win. Another one likely to be at the front early is (5) BULGEUN POKPUNG. His best so far was his 3rd place on debut at 1000M, but he led for a long way last time before being passed by a few for 6th. He can be in this for longer this time. There are three debut-makers and with the exposed form dropping off, they can be considered. Taking into account their trials and draw, (2) LAFEYETTE and (4) GLOBAL CHUKBAE have the best chance of making an immediate impression.

Selections(1) Naol Rooney (6) Wonpyeong Kingdom (5) Bulgeun Pokpung (2) Lafeyette
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens. (4) THEME TANSAENG ran a good 2nd two starts back, well behind a decent winner but in a decent time over 1200M. He had a hard time finding position from a wide draw on his latest, but he comes into a better gate here and should get an easier run to the lead. Moon Se-young stays aboard, and he is the one to beat. (7) WORLD FASHION has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes, settling back each tome and running on. He lay in ungenerously last time out to the extent that he was ordered back to trial, but he came through his heat in good order and with a more mature run, can go close again. (10) PURPLE WINK won a March trial before finishing a fair 4th on debut at 1200M on April 15th, running on well. He should have come on for the run and the way he finished off suggests the additional half furlong can suit. (9) HAENGUN BARAM and (8) LEMON BLADE among others in the frame.

Selections(4) Theme Tansaeng (7) World Fashion (10) Purple Wink (9) Haengun Baram
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A regular maiden here and (9) FINAL CHUKJE looks set to be a warm favourite. He has five top-five finishes from six starts and his most recent outing was his best when 2nd over this distance on March 25th when he posted the fastest time of any of these over 1400M. The one downside is the draw is perhaps a little wider then ideal, but he has a long back straight to overcome that and he can win. (5) EXPECT stepped up to this trop on April 30th and produced his best performance to date when 3rd having raced handy. He’ll be on or near the speed here and can be a danger. (3) SAVANA CHARLIE was 4th in that same race. That was the fourth time in six starts that he has finished in that position, and he should be at least matching that here. (10) UDDUG and (1) HANGANG POWER among others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Final Chukje (5) Expect (3) Savana Charlie (10) Uddug
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(6) DALGEUM has five top-three finishes from seven starts so far including her latest two, a 2nd and a 3rd both at this class and distance. She has been on pace in those two and probably will be again and this time she can make the breakthrough. (5) WORLD KING MAN was 5th to Dalgeum’s 2nd when they raced one another on March 26th. He subsequently dropped back to 1300M and beat a couple of these on his way to 4th place on April 22nd. His style has been to drop back and then run on and he can be a danger in the closing stages here. (3) STAR K was a slightly unexpected winner on April 9th, coming from well back to score over 1300M. He comes up in class here, but the distance should suit, and he could have more improvement in him at what will be an each-way price. (8) YEONGCHEON JISANG and (9) POWER DOLPUNG among others with placing chances.

Selections(6) Dalgeum (5) World King Man (3) Star K (8) Yeongcheon Jisang
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start6, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A very competitive race. (8) HWANGWOO CHOEGANG is the likely favourite. She got her maiden win at start number two over this distance on April 1st and then ran a fair 4th on her first try at this class on April 29th in what was a very quick race on a wet track. She comes in under the same light weight and she can sit behind the speed and run on. (1) GANGHAN QUEEN was a good 3rd on her most recent outing on April 16th when she led for much of the way. She’ll be on or close to the pace again and can be in this a long way. (2) GLOBAL CHANGA weakened having led over this distance on March 12th. That was her first start since she ran 5th of ten in a Listed juvenile race last November and while she has had a further eleven weeks off since, she should strip fitter here and will have backers. The up in class pair of (11) BARAMUI HYANGGI and (7) GEOLJAK TOUR are others to consider.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 26)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

It’s the first two-year-old race of the season and that means a return to the five-furlong chute. All are unraced but fortunately most came through the same trials, so we have plenty to go on (5) GLORY CROWN was held together very nicely in his heat on April 29th breaking well to lead comfortably and went round under a hold only passed in the closing stages by one going flat out. The time was good, three of today’s rivals were behind him, and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (9) WELCOME BACK was asked to do a little bit more in his trial but came through well, running 3rd in a quick time and beaten only by a pair of four-year-olds. A repeat of that will put him firmly in contention. (11) BORIS MARINE was a further two-lengths back in the same trial, running through the line well. (3) YEONGGWANGUIPRINCE and (6) DOCTOR KINGDOM among others who could go well first-up. 

Selections(5) Glory Crown (9) Welcome Back (11) Boris Marine (3) Yeonngwanguiprince
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Three-year-old maidens. (7) HAVE A GOOD YEAR has shown progress across three starts so far culminating in a 2nd place at this distance on April 14th when he led through the early stages. He can be expected to be on the speed again and this time can go all the way. (10) CHAS PALPAL offered nothing in his first three outings but significantly improved when 2nd at start number four over this distance on April 9th. He posted a time for the 1200M faster than any of the others have managed and the way he came from off the pace, from an even wider draw, suggests gate ten won’t be an issue. To cap it all off, an apprentice claim takes him down 2kg. (4) GEUMA HUGE HIT didn’t do much on debut last November but looked much better when 4th on her return on April 23rd, albeit well back behind a good winner. She should benefit from that run and can improve here. (2) SUCCESSFUL and (5) BRAVE CAPTAIN, the latter back in trip and sure to be on pace, are others to consider.

Selections(7) Have A Good Year (10) Chas Palpal (4) Geuma Huge Hit (2) Successful
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens and a few look ready to win. (3) HWANGWU JANGSA won two trials and then ran 3rd on debut over 1200M on April 9th. He overcame gate ten that day to reach a handy position and with the benefit of experience and a better draw, he can go close here. (8) ZETTA DREAM has a 2nd and a 4th from two starts so far, the latter at this distance. He can be on pace here and has solid chances. (11) THE PURE MAN beat Zetta Dream when 3rd over this distance on April 28th. That followed a 2nd on debut at 1200M. He drew the same gate last time out and proved himself able to settle back and run on and he can be a danger late on here. There are two debut-makers and (1) THUNDER GONGJU will have plenty of backers. She went through two trials, failing to qualify in the first of them behind Hwangwu Jangsa but was much better in the second when on pace and running 2nd in a quick time. She draws well here and can put in a bold first-up run. (4) THE BEST EVER debuted inauspiciously last year but looked much better when trialling up two weeks ago and is another to consider.

Selections(3) Hwangwu Jangsa (8) Zetta Dream (11) The Pure Man (1) Thunder Gongju
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Tricky maiden with the form unconvincing for most. (9) SUCCESS BATTLE was a significant improver at start number three over 1200M on April 23rd when 3rd over 1200M, settling midfield and running on. Like most of the field he steps up to 1400M for the first time and it can suit. (6) JORDAN FIGHTING has been solid if unspectacular across four outings so far. In this company he should be on pace and solid if unspectacular may be enough to see him go very close. (2) KICK’N RUSH has a 2nd and a (dead-heat) 3rd to her name, both over 1300M. A previous attempt at 1400M didn’t go especially well but she is nicely drawn here and should be ready for another go. (7) SUPER KANEL and (8) ECTON BATTLE among others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Success Battle (6) Jordan Fighting (2) Kick’N Rush (7) Super Kanel
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race. (8) SPECIAL WIND is the probable favourite despite still being a maiden after twelve attempts. He has no fewer than nine top-five finishes including last time out on April 28th when he overcame gate eleven to run 2nd over 1300M with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He also has a 3rd place at this distance and today could be his day. If he does find one too quick again then it’s most likely to be (11) GEUMA UNO. He ran 3rd in that April 28th race, a length and a half behind Special Wind. That was his second consecutive 3rd place finish, both times from the same gate as today and third-up this preparation, he may be peaking fitness wise. (2) DYNAMIC WINNER comes up in class and slightly in trip following a maiden win at start number four when she made all over 1300M. She comes down in the weights, draws well, and can measure up in this company. (3) POWER GUY, impressive n a trial earlier this month, and (6) MONEY BAG, are others in the hunt.

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TUHONUI BANSEOK STUNS WINNER’S MAN BY CRUSHING MARGIN AS BART RICE TRAINS FIRST KOREAN GROUP WINNER

The second leg of the Stayer Series was every bit as one-sided as most expected. It just wasn’t the result most expected as Tuhonui Banseok produced a spectacular performance to beat defending Champion and Korea Cup and Grand Prix Stakes hero Winner’s Man by an astonishing eleven-lengths in the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3). It was a first Korean Group race win for both jockey Park Jae-I and trainer Bart Rice.

Tuhonui Banseok in the clear in the YTN Cup (Pic: KRA)

Having won the first leg of the Stayer Series, last month’s Herald Business Cup by three-lengths, Winner’s Man was sent off as a prohibitive 1.4 favourite for the YTN ahead of Tuhonui Banseok, who had been a fast-finishing 3rd in the Grand Prix and then 2nd in the Herald Business. Breaking from gate two, Park Jae-I pushed Tuhonui Banseok to the lead right from the gate. Knowing where the greatest threat was, Seo Seung-un on Winner’s Man immediately moved to track him.

Tuhonui Banseok (Pic: KRA)

Winner’s Man stayed locked to Tuhonui Banseok’s heels as the race passed through the back straight and reached its crucial stages. Passing three-furlongs and beginning to turn towards the home straight, the seeming inevitability of Winner’s Man eventually blowing past the upstart was confounded when Seo Seung-un was the first to get to work, while Park Jae-I remained stationary aboard the leader. When Park did get down to business, the gap was already up to three-lengths and rising. Between the 300M and the 200M, Winner’s Man briefly regained some ground, but Tuhonui Banseok quickly slammed the door and romped away for a devastating victory.

Winner’s Man was 2nd, eleven-lengths in arrears but still well clear of the rest, while Winner Gold, a 78/1 chance, emerged from the rear down the rail to claim an excellent 3rd.  

It perhaps shouldn’t have come as a surprise. Tuhonui Banseok was running in his fifth Graded race and the trajectory had very much been upwards. Last June he encountered the elite for the first time and ran 8th in the Busan Mayor’s Cup behind Winner’s Man. A 3rd in last October’s KRA Cup Classic behind Raon The Fighter was followed by another 3rd in the Grand Prix Stakes. That day with every stride, he was gaining on Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter, and may have got closer were it not for his having to navigate around tired horses at the top of the straight. Then there was that 2nd in the Herald Business last month.

Park Jae-i (Pic: KRA)

This time everything went right for Tuhonui Banseok, a five-year-old American-bred entire by Verrazano and out of the Street Sense mare, Sense of Beauty. He was a $13,000 purchase at the 2019 Keeneland September Yearling Sale.

For jockey Park Jae-I, 2022 was a standout year in terms of winners when he leapt from a previous yearly best of twenty-seven, to a tally of sixty-two and 3rd place in the Premiership behind only You Hyun-myung and Sunday’s vanquished rival, Seo Seung-un. Now the twenty-seven-year-old has his first Graded race win.

It was surprising for some observers to realise it was also a first Korean Graded winner for trainer Bart Rice. The South African handler has been a fixture around the top of the Busan Trainer Premiership ever since debuting in late 2013 and sports a healthy 14%-win rate and 34% top-three rate across his time in the country.

Bart Rice finally gets his Group Race Presentation (Pic: KRA)

Previous Rice stable stars such as the fellow Lim Byung-ho owned Buhwarui Banseok were solid class 1 horses but had the misfortune to be around at the same time as the likes of Cheongdam Dokki, for his entire career, as well as Triple Nine and Power Blade at the start of it.  That said, Tuhonui Banseok has had the misfortune to be around at the same time as Raon The Fighter and Winner’s Man. Now that gap on the resume has been filled and with Tuhonui Banseok still seemingly getting better, there could be more to come.

Don’t write off Winner’s Man. He has had his setbacks before, most notably when 3rd in last November’s President’s Cup. It didn’t take him long to return to the summit. But there is plenty of intrigue now ahead of the Busan Mayor’s Cup on July 2nd and the biggest of them all, the Korea Cup, looming into view. In Tuhonui Banseok, a new heavyweight is on the scene.

YTN Cup Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 21)

The YTN Cup, the second leg of the Stayer Series is the headline race on Sunday. See here for a fuller preview. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here’s the race-by-race:

Winner’s Man won the 1st leg of the Stayer Series (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1:  Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(9) RAON HOLIDAY was a much-improved 3rd at start number four on April 15th, finishing 2nd in a quick time. He raced on the speed for the first time and while he draws wider this time, expect similar tactics today, and he can go one better. (8) CANDY GLOW will be challenging him for the lead. He enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at this trip and both in good times. She’ll surely be in this a long way. (3) BURUI JILJU returned from nine months out to run 2nd over 1700M on March 26th, sitting handy throughout. That was a big effort first-up, but he’s had eight weeks off since and he will be expected to go close here. (11) NEMO SPIRIT and (1) FINE DAY are other potential improvers.

Selections(9) Raon Holiday (8) Candy Glow (3) Burui Jilju (11) Nemo Spirit
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Not the strongest of maidens and that will make (10) SEONGSIL INDONG a warm favourite. She steps up marginally in trip for the first time following three fair efforts over 1200M when she has run on well each time. Moon Se-young climbs on board today and it will be no surprise if they win. (2) TRES VITE on the other hand comes back in trip after a couple of spins around 1700M including a last start 4th on March 26th when coming from off the pace. He draws well here and should be competitive. (4) WONDERFUL FOX has shown slight but noticeable improvement over her three outings culminating in 5th place last time over this trip. Her times haven’t been quick but if she continues to get better the same rate, then she will merit at least a place chance here. (6) EURO GANGJA and (1) GEOMOON others in the minor money frame.

Selections(10) Seongsil Indong (2) Tres Vite (4) Wonderful Fox (6) Euro Gangja
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

No fewer than five of the twelve are up in class last stat winners. We’ll side with (10) K N GOLDEN KING. With a 3rd and a 2nd from his first two starts, it was no surprise when he duly obliged when favourite over 1200M on April 8th. He made all that day so he does have the challenge of a wider draw, but he also comes up in trip so has an additional 100-metres to the turn and that could be enough for Moon Se-young to find his desired position. (6) FLYING LIGHT won on debut and while he took a couple of goes to figure things out at this class, he comes in off a strong class and distance 2nd on April 16th, well beaten by a good winner, but a strong performance, nonetheless. He draws well to sit handy or race on pace and a repeat will put him in the finish again. Returning to the up in class ones, (5) HWANGGEUMKKOT and (4) MIR POINT look the most likely to measure up. (8) WALGADAK another of those with experience at this level who can go close in what is a very competitive race.  

Selections(10) K N Golden King (6) Flying Light (5) Hwanggeumkkot (4) Mir Point
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A very competitive maiden to open proceedings on the south coast and it’s hard to be confident about much of the form. The one thing is clear is that (4) VELOCIRAPTOR has the fastest time for the distance among these, recorded three starts back when 3rd, and that is enough to give him a chance here. He didn’t go well over a mile last time but back to 1300M and from a good gate, he has as much chance as any. (5) TOO CUTE GIRL and (9) HAMA come sin having run 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced one another at this distance on April 16th. There wasn’t much to choose between them that day – it was for both their best performance so far – and with them both carrying the same weight, we’ll side with Too Cute Girl by virtue of having the better gate. (2) MIRACULUM and (11) VERLUC are other possibles for the minors.

Selections(4) Velociraptor (5) Too Cute Girl (9) Hama (2) Miraculum
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (1) BURUI KKOT is yet to win from twelve attempts but has no eleven top five finishes including four as runner up. She comes back in trip after several near misses at 1300M, she has the plum inside gate, which should get her on to the speed with a minimal amount of fuss and an apprentice jockey takes her weight down. This could be her day. The main danger is (8) TROT QUEEN. She was 5th to Burui Kkot’s4th with little between them when they raced one another over 1300M on April 8th. She too is yet to win but has good times at this distance and she will be running on strong late. (5) WONPYEONG GWANGYA comes back in trip after weakening late on over 1300M in her latest two. From a good gate and under a light weight, she can be on pace and in this a long way. (10) GOLDEN LUCKY and (3) HONEY PUNCH, the latter who can have her latest outing forgiven as she was first up following a lengthy absence, are others to consider.

Selections(1) Burui Kkot (8) Trot Queen (5) Wonpyeong Gwangya (10) Golden Lucky
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) HANEUL MISO remains a maiden following thirteen starts but enters with her recent form at class and distance reading very well. She has been back to trial since her latest 3rd place on April 16th and se won her heat in fine fashion three weeks ago. She draws well here, carries a very light weight, and today can be her day. (7) DOCTOR CUCKOO is up in class having secured his maiden win on April 28th when stalking the lead early before taking things up turning into the straight and going on to win by however many he please. This is tougher but the manner of that victory suggests there is more to come, and he shouldn’t be dismissed. (8) SEOGWI CHUKJE is another maiden, but she comes in following three consecutive runner-up finishes at this class, two of them at today’s distance. Among them was the fastest time for any of these over the 1200M and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (6) B.K. GALLOP and (1) CHEONGMA POWER others in the placing frame.

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Winner’s Man Heads Stayer Series 2nd Leg Field Sunday

The Stayer Series holds its second leg at Seoul Racecourse this Sunday as ten go to post for the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3). And with Raon The Fighter now firmly ensconced atop the sprinting ranks following his dominant wins in the Busan Ilbo Sprint in April and the SBS Sports Sprint last weekend, the path appears clear for Winner’s Man to continue his dominance over the longer trips. 

Winner’s Man won the 1st leg of the Stayer Series from Tuhonui Banseok. (Pic: KRA)

Having won the Korea Cup and Grand Prix Stakes in 2022, WINNER’S MAN, who also won the Korea Derby as a three-year-old, began the Stayer Series as the one to beat and he duly obliged in the first leg, the Herald Business Trophy (2000M KOR-G3) on April 16th when he struck the front in the home straight and ran on to win by three-lengths. Over the same distance and under a set weight scale, it is hard to see any other result on Sunday.

Winner’s Man does throw in the odd poor run though. He looked undercooked when 3rd behind Raon First in last November’s President’s Cup, and he was out of sorts when 4th on his seasonal re-appearance at class 1 level over 1800M in February. He was giving 8kg away that day but with all due respect to that day’s winner Flat Babe, Winner’s Man shouldn’t have been losing to her.

As for those who can take advantage should the favourite be below his best, TUHONUI BANSEOK looks the most likely. He was another who had an off day in that February Class 1 behind Flat Babe although in finishing 3rd, he did at least beat Winner’s Man. He ran 2nd in the Herald Business building on his breakthrough performance when 3rd in the Grand Prix Stakes, when he made excellent ground to almost catch Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter. One of two in the race for trainer Bart Rice along with lively outsider Jessieui Kkum, Tuhonui Banseok will be a clear second-favourite again.

Tunhonui Banseok isn’t the only one in the gate to have finished ahead of Winner’s Man. SIMJANGUI GODONG did that when 2nd to Raon First when attempting to defend his President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) last November. He skipped the Herald Business but returned to the winner’s circle at Class 1 level over 2000M in April.  Moon Se-young returns to the ride and he is a clear place chance again.

The top-three in the Herald Business was rounded out by BARBARIAN, a length and a quarter in arrears of Tuhonui Banseok. He too will be backed to place again. BLACK MASK had a poor day at the office in the Herald Business but shapes as the next best in what will be a final Group race ride for the retiring jockey Ham Wan-sik.

The YTN Cup is race 8 on Sunday’s 11-race card at Seoul Racecourse with a local post time of 16:10.

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 20)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Winner’s Man will be in town on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener with four of the eleven racing for the first time. There are two stand outs, and the better draw means the nod goes to (2) MR QUALITY. His best was his 2nd on debut but he has run fairly in both starts since and both were from wide gates. He should get a much easier early run today and he can win. (11) TAMRA CHOEGANGJA is the main danger. He’s shown good progress across his three appearances so far, culminating in a 3rd place over this distance on April 15th. He has finished off his races well and while he may need a touch of luck from the barrier, he will have plenty of backers. (7) AUSTIN LEADER ran fairly for a midfield finish on debut over this distance in February, having previously shown some speed in his trial. He returns fourteen weeks later and better will be expected. (5) POWERFUL VISION looks the best of the first-time starters, while (8) PEARL POINT is another who can improve.

Selections(2) Mr Quality (11) Tamra Choegangja (7) Austin Leader (5) Powerful Vision
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(4) TI AMO looks the one to beat here. She has two 3rd places among four starts so far including her latest on April 22nd when she overcame gate ten to lead until the closing stages. She comes into a better gate today and this time can lead all the way. (8) TOUGH YEOJE has some fair efforts on her resume including a 4th place last time out over this distance. She can settle behind the speed here and should be pressing late. (10) SECRET WANGJA has the fastest time among these for the distance. He comes back in trip after a couple of recent spins at 1300M and he is a another who can challenge in the closing stages. (9) APEX and (6) WONDERFUL RULES are among others with placing claims.

Selections(4) Ti Amo (8) Tough Yeoje (10) Secret Wangja (9) Apex
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens. (11) RAON THE COBRA raced twice las summer for a 4th (dead-heated) and 3rd at 1000M and 1200M. He hasn’t raced since September 4th so returns for the first time in thirty-seven weeks, but he looked well enough when crossing the line midfield in a trial which wasn’t fast but where the field pretty much all come home together at the end of April. He’ll need this but a bold showing first-up is a possibility. (9) EUNBIT DOLPUNG has shown steady progress across three starts so far, with a close 2nd in her latest over 1200M on April 22nd when making ground late. She comes back up to 1300M here, the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue, and she has a big chance. (8) MENI POCKET has three top-four finishes among four outings to date including a runner-up finish at this distance. Expect her to be on pace here and in this a long way. (6) SINUI YEOIN beat three of these on her way to 2nd place on April 9th. She was sent off at big odds and it was a big improvement, but third-up this preparation, she may be peaking fitness wise and can go close again. (7) MADE STAR, one of those behind Sinui Yeoin in that race, is another in the minor money hunt.

Selections(11) Raon The Cobra (9) Eunbit Dolpung (8) Meni Pocket (6) Sinui Yeoin
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(6) HEY CUPID debuted inauspiciously last October but then returned on April 22nd to make all for a comfortable win over 1200M. He was gelded during the layoff and the win wasn’t unexpected after he dominated a March trial. He comes up in class and slightly in distance here, but he is very much the one to beat. (5) G STAR shook off a run of middling form to run 2nd at class and distance on April 15th when ridden on pace for the first time in a while. He comes up 2.5kg here but with similar tactics, can be considered. (10) HANGANG HERO is yet to win in fifteen attempts but enters off a third runner-up finish on April 9th when settling midfield and running on. She may find a couple too quick again but may make for some each-way interest. (9) PEERLESS and (8) ARCH MEMORY others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(6) Hey Cupid (5) G Star (10) Hangang Hero (9) Peerless
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start5, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(8) EUREKA was a winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 3rd on his first try at this class, again over the 1700M, on April 23rd. He has run well from the front and from settling back and while his time may need to be a bit quicker, he has every chance here. (6) THUNDER HORSE was dropped back to 1200M last start but quickly got caught in kickback and by the time he found a clear run in the home straight the race was over. He has solid form over this trip though and should be far happier back up at two turns. (1) BITNANEUN JILJU and (5) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE came home 4th and 6th when they raced one another at class and distance on April 24th. Both are recent winners at the distance, and both should be competitive again here. (7) ROSE GOLD another to keep safe.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 19)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (5) GOLDEN STELLA was an on-pace 2nd on debut in a good time over this distance. She was well beaten by a good winner but should have come on for the experience and from a good draw, she should be on pace again and this time can go one better. (10) MASARANGGIL recorded a 2nd and a 3rd in two starts at the beginning of the year, coming from off the pace both times. She hasn’t races since that 3rd back in February, but she looked well in a trial last week and so long as she didn’t leave her race there, she can be a danger late on. First time starter (8) TREE MORE won a trial last summer but didn’t make it to the races. He has since been gelded and requalified in fine fashion when 2nd in a quick trial in April. If he brings that form to race day, he can put in a bold showing first up. (2) UNJU BONNEUNG and (7) KING ANYDAY others in the placing hunt.

Selection(5) Golden Stella (10) Masaranggil (8) Tree More (2) Unju Bonneung
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(9) GEUMA STARRY raced twice last autumn, finishing 2nd and 5th, both over this distance. She returns for the first time since November and looked good when 4th of nine in a quick trial at the end of last month. She draws a touch wide but if she can get to the lead, she may take some passing. (11) GOLDEN CAMP comes in off a best to date 2nd place when settling midfield and running on over this distance on April 28th. She remains under a light weight and should be close again. (7) BARBELL QUEEN beat a couple of these on her way to an improved 5th over this distance on April 23rd. She won’t need to run any better to get closer in this company. (3) JUST BE HAPPY raced once without distinction at the end of last year but looked better when trialling up again in April. She led her trial and from a good gate can lead here. (8) TURBO YEOGEOL another potential improver.

Selection(9) Geuma Starry (11) Golden Camp (7) Barbell Queen (3) Just Be Happy
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden with plenty looking ready to win. (8) GASOK JEIL looks close to figuring things out and comes in having beaten a couple of these on his way to 2nd place over this distance on April 16th. He was ridden further forward that in his previous starts and with similar tactics today, he can win. (3) WONDERFUL IMPACT was 3rd in that April 16th race, finishing in that position for the second consecutive time. From a good gate, she can sit handy and run on strongly. (5) HAENGBOKHAN GIL has the fastest time among these for the distance, recorded when 4th two starts back. That was his best finish to date but in this company, he should be aiming to match or better it. (2) USEUNGMUPAE and (10) SOLEDAD are others in at least the placing frame.

Selection(8) Gasok Jeil (3) Wonderful Impact (5) Haengbokhan Gil (2) Useungmupae
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2. 9. 6. 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(5) PURPLE LINE made all to get his maiden win by a full ten-lengths over this distance at start number four on April 16th. He comes up in class today, but the manner of that win suggests that there is more to come, and he is the one to beat here. (4) NAMHAE MISO took just two goes to get her maiden win, scoring over 1300M on April 16th. Her times haven’t been quick but the slight step up in trip can suit and she should be measuring up at this level. (3) WONDERFUL OCEAN is yet to win in eleven attempts but has proven competitive at this level with two 3rd places. She likes to sit handy and run on and she has a strong finish on her. (9) PATRIOT and (8) ZET CASH are others who can enter the calculations.

Selection(5) Purple Line (4) Namhae Miso (3) Wonderful Ocean (9) Patriot
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) JANGSAN DEFI had an undistinguished juvenile campaign but returned from six months off to win over 1200M on April 21st. She comes up in class and slightly in trip, but should strip fitter for the run, and can measure up. (1) JEOLDAE BOSS is yet to win but has several near-misses with five top-four finishes from seven starts. He has run consistent times and from the plum inside gate, he should be on or close to the pace and can be in this a long way. (9) HELLO SUNSHINE got his maiden win on April 9th when making all over 1200M. He comes up in both class and slightly in distance here but shouldn’t be out of his depth among this field. (8) MILK DAY and (10) RUBY STORM are among others in the frame in what shapes as one of the most competitive races of the day.

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