Author: gyongmaman

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Top jockeys Moon Se-young, Choi Bum-hyun, Lim Gi-won and Jang Chu-youl all find themselves with two-day bans this weekend. Here are the previews:

Park Tae-jong finally got his 2200th career winner last week and is one of few top local jockeys not suspended this weekend – although he only has one ride Saturday and four Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies here. One of four first-timer starters, (1) GREEN VIVACE took four trials to qualify but in the latest of those on March 3rd, pinged the start and then led all the way under a hold and ask for very little. The time wasn’t quick, but she was well clear of the rest and didn’t get out of first gear. It was a big improvement on her previous trials and if she brings that form to the races, she may be hard to hold out. (4) TI AMO ran on gamely for an improved 3rd at start number two over this distance on February 18th. A similar performance will put her firmly in the frame here. Returning to the debut-makers, (2) BRIGHT WINNER was still somewhat green in her second trial but ran through the line well and can make an impact first up in this company. (7) FIRST USER and (10) BEATRIZ potential improvers.

Selections(1) Green Vivace (4) Ti Amo (2) Bright Winner (7) First User
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start1, 7, 10, 12

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies but imports this time and nine America breds face the starter. All have raced at least once before including the top pick (9) POWER VICTORY. She beat several of these on her way to 2nd place on debut on February 25th in a very similar race to this over the same distance. With some natural improvement from that run, she may prove hard to beat. (2) MOONHAK SONG came 3rd in that race on what was for her, start number five. She has a length and three-quarters to make up on Power Victory but she led that day and draws well to do so once more. She can get closer this time. (3) MEDICI WOLF was well backed in that February race but was no better than midfield throughout. She was 3rd in the Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy behind Raon Giant and Furiosa last November though and in this company should be given another chance. (4) DUSON CHAMP is another to keep safe while if you want something that didn’t go in that February race (6) MIGHTY Q, who beat a fair few of these on Christmas Day, would be the pick.

Selections(9) Power Victory (2) Moonhak Song (3) Medici Wolf (4) Duson Champ
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

A maiden for three-years-old, this time open to the boys as well. (6) FINAL CHUKJE just about gets the edge, based on an improved 3rd place when stepped up to this distance on February 19th when he led for most of the way. That was the first time he had been ridden forward and from a central gate we can expect similar tactics today and for him to be in this a long way. The main danger is (3) SAVANA CHARLIE. Aside from two starts back when he drew the widest gate, he has run well including a 4th place last time out on February 11th when settling back and finishing strongly. The additional half furlong should suit, and he will be a danger running on late. (7) RUBY AGAIN comes into the calculations based on her run two starts back when 2nd over 1200M. She is another who likes to get back and run on. (5) THUNDER PRINCE and (8) DASI TAEEONADO others to keep safe.

Selections(6) Final Chukje (3) Savana Charlie (7) Ruby Again (5) Thunder Prince
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and there are no Oaks contenders here. That means that the 4th place registered by (3) MADISON MOUNTAIN in her latest effort at this distance on February 5th is enough to make her the top pick. She has a tendency to get a bit far back, but today’s competition is softer and there should be less danger of her leaving herself too much to do. Second pick is (7) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER. She comes back in trip following a spin around 1700M just two weeks ago when she was handy before coming home 5th. She’ll be on pace here and despite the quick turnaround can be in this a long way again.  The form drops off the proverbial after those two. At a push, (4) SINPUNG YEOGEOL might be expected to kick on following a career best 6th place last time out. (9) ZIRCON and (1) GEOLJAK TOUR others for whom we can’t have much confidence in but in this race should really be looking for improvement.

Selections(3) Madison Mountain (7) Hampyeong Fighter (4) Sinpung Yeogeol (9) Zircon
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 10

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

(7) POWERFUL SOCKS got his maiden in two starts back over this distance making all at class 6 level before running a useful enough 5th on his first try at this class on February 25th when handy throughout. He has the fastest time among these for the distance, he has a smart finish on him, and he has every chance of returning to winning ways here. (3) LEGAL HIGH comes up in class following a maiden win over 1200M on February 18th when settling just off the pace and running on. The class rise is balanced by a much better gate and a very slight drop in the weights, and she can measure up in this company. (2) K N TIZWON comes back down in trip following recent work over 1700M including a 2nd and a 3rd at this class. He can get a bit far back in his races but from a good gate can be ridden further forward today and he should be dangerous. (10) TANGJA and (6) DAECHEON CHAMP among others in the placing frame.

(more…)

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card 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 with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (9) JEONGMUN SPECTER ran well on debut for 4th last August but didn’t reappear until January when he very much needed his run. He improved to 2nd from a wide draw on February 12th over this distance and third-up here, he should be peaking and can win. A few of the first timers look promising. (7) YEONGGWANGUIHAMSUNG led his heat, crossing the line in 2nd in a good time. He’ll be on pace here and Seo Seung-un being engaged is sure to make him well-supported. (8) ZETTA DREAM went through a very quick trial alongside some experienced racehorses and held his own well. If he can bring that form to the races, he can go close. So too (6) HWANGU DAEJANGGUN led every step of the way in a March 4th trial, crossing the line plenty to the good. He gets the benefit of an apprentice claim and is another who can make a bold showing first up. Returning to the experience, (1) CHOICE ROAD is probably the best of the rest.

Selections(9) Jeongmun Specter (7) Yeonggwanguihamsung (8) Zetta Dream (6) Hwangu Daejanggun
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens and it’s hard to go past (2) ROAD TO GLORY. After a runner-up finish over 1200M in January, he came from off the pace to run 4th over 1300M on February 24th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He seems to be needing further and he gets an additional half furlong to play with here and he could be hard to hold out. (11) HERE THE QUEEN was slow out last time out and scarcely featured over 1300M. She was sent off as favourite that day on the back of a strong runner-up performance back in January. Park Jae-i climbs aboard today, and she can be given another chance. (1) HAENGBOKHAN GIL has hinted that he might be figuring things out in his latest two, including a last start 5th over a mile just two weeks ago. He gets a great draw here which should allow Song Kyeong-yun to pick his spot, and he has as good a finish on him than any here. (3) STORMY DAY and (6) KELLY QUEEN among others with placing hopes.

Selections(2) Road To Glory (11) Here The Queen (1) Haengbokhan Gil (3) Stormy Day
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Tricky race. (10) SKY SHOT enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at 1200M and 1300M, both times beating some of today’s rivals. He drew wide in both of those so gate ten isn’t a concern, and today can be his day. He will vie for favourite status with (5) ADELE HORANGI. He has only missed to top-five once from seven starts and his best finish, a 2nd place, came at this distance. He generally settles midfield and runs on and should be in the finish again here. (1) SEOGWI FLASH enters off a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, most recently at this distance on March 3rd. She draws a much better gate today so may well be on what little speed there is here, and she can be in this a long way. (7) VICTOR BASIUM races for the first time since last November. In a race of absolutely no early speed he may get an easy lead and while after is absence he has to be taken somewhat on trust; he should go close. (6) ETTEUMI another in the frame.

Selections(10) Sky Shot (5) Adele Horangi (1) Seogwi Flash (7) Victor Basium
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 10

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

Fillies and mares only and (5) PAN STAR gets the nod here. She made all for her maiden win over this trip two starts back before trying to repeat over 1400M on her first try at this level on March 3rd. She comes down slightly in the weights, comes back in trip and will be aiming to lead gate to wire. (10) META QUEEN comes up in class following an on-pace win over 1200M back on January 29th. She comes up in class and slightly in trip here and while she may need a touch of luck at the start from the wide draw, she can measure up. (11) FAST FURY is done even fewer favours by the draw. Having got her maiden win over 1200M back in February, she ran a solid 4th on her first try at this class on March 5th, racing handy throughout. She remains nicely weighted and like Meta Queen, with a bit of early luck, she shouldn’t be far away.  (3) GAMDONG ENERGY and (7) MY SONG among others to keep safe.

Selections(5) Pan Star (10) Meta Queen (11) Fast Fury (3) Gamdong Energy
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

It’s about time (8) NICHOLAS G. won He got promoted to this class after two runner-up finishes and ran 2nd for the third time on February 24th when on pace throughout over 1400M. He comes up to the mile for the first time and there is no reason why it can’t suit. He’ll be on pace and today can be his day. (5) KING BOSS is a consistent type with recent form reading well. He draws much better than he did when 5th at class and distance on March 5th and should be going closer here. (7) GREAT ONE comes back up to this trip after recent work at 1400M. He has the second fastest time of any of these for the mile and he can improve on his latest efforts here. (6) NOBLE COWBOY and (4) ARTHUR KING IJI among others who can be kept safe on a place line.

(more…)

Betelgeuse, Something Lost Take Out Classic Trials

Betelgeuse put down a huge marker on the road to the Triple Crown, overcoming adversity to win the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy at Busan, while at Seoul, Something Lost overcame the market to maintain his unbeaten record and lead all the way in the Sports Seoul Trophy.

Betelgeuse wins the Gyeongnam Shinmun (Pic: KRA)

Betelgeuse skipped the one-turn Listed and Graded juvenile races last season in favour of being tested against older horses over 1800M, a strategy similar to that used by his trainer Baik Kwang-yeol with last year’s Derby winner Winner Star. Dropping back to 1400M for the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy, punters made the colt, a winner of five from seven, the odds on favourite.

The striking grey didn’t disappoint. Despite getting a heavy bump coming out of the gate, Betelgeuse was ridden up to within striking distance of the leaders entering the straight. He was then on the receiving end of more interference, forcing him wider and wider but once jockey Choi Si-dae managed to extricate him and find room, he powered home to win pulling away. He crossed the line a length and three-quarters ahead of World Legend in 2nd with Yeonggwangui Ace, the tormentor of Betelgeuse at the start and at the top of the straight, 3rd.

An hour later at Seoul, Breeders’ Cup 4th place getter Naol Sniper was sent off as favourite for the Sports Seoul Trophy (also over 1400M) off the back of a smart win over 1800M last month. From a wide gate he ran strongly but just couldn’t get to Something Lost who under Lee Hyeok, had got the best of the start and managed to keep the field at arm’s length all the way around.

Despite being three for three, the Hong Dae-you trained Something Lost was sent off as the 13/1 fifth choice in the betting market with punters unconvinced by those victories and with memories of plenty of previously unbeaten three-year-olds arriving at these races only to be found out. Naol Sniper was half a length back in 2nd with Dragon Star a further four-lengths in arrears in 3rd.

The focus will now turn to the KRA Cup Mile, the first leg of the Triple Crown, at Busan on April 30th. Speed Young, last year’s Breeders’ Cup winner, is set to be there but both Betelgeuse and Something Lost are sure to be in the mix.

In other news, the long standing saga of Park Tae-jong’s 2200th career winner finally came to an end as the jockey guided Sure Win to an all the way victory in race 10 at Seoul on Sunday. Since his last victory on February 5th, Park had been scoreless in more than forty rides, almost the longest losing streak in his 34-year career. Park is the all time leading jockey in Korea.

There was also a milestone winner for a jockey at the other end of her career. Kim Tae-hui partnered Seoul Spurt to victory in race 3 at Seoul on Sunday to get her 40th winner and lose the final 1kg of her apprentice claim.  She isn’t the quickest to ride out her claim, but the 22-year-old, who began race riding in the summer of 2021, missed 4 months through injury following a bad fall in January last year.

The first few months after losing a claim is always a challenging time for young jockeys but Kim Tae-hui looks likely to have the support – and the ability – to continue to be successful.

Classic Trials Sunday at Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 19)

Sunday is Classic Trials day in Korea with the Sports Seoul Trophy in the Capital and the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy on the south coast offering the three-year-old crop a big prize on their way to the Triple Crown, the first leg of which is just six weeks away. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:00 to 15:40. Here are the previews:

Seungbusa won last year’s Sports Seoul Trophy before going on to place in two legs of the Triple Crown (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (5) BANFF went through plenty of trials before debuting on February 19th and he gave a good account for himself over this distance, coming out of the widest gate to sit midfield and then run on for 3rd. He should have come on for that run, he draws well here, and he can win. (10) FLY DAY has a 5th and a 3rd from two appearances so far, both times settling midfield and finishing off well. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, an apprentice keeps his weight light, and he should be challenging late again here. (8) MIR POINT has a 2nd place to her name over 1000M and comes in off a solid 4th place at this distance on February 12th when he led for much of the way. He should be on pace again, and in this a long way. (6) CLAIR QUEEN and (7) JEOLDAE GACHI among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(5) Banff (10) Fly Day (8) Mir Point (6) Clair Queen
Next Best7, 12
Fast Start4, 8, 7, 12

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

Three-year-old maidens. (1) CHEERFUL LIFE looks to be the one to beat. After running 5th on debut in December, he has since run 2nd and 3rd in two tries at this distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He has raced on pace in both those and is beautifully drawn so to do again, and he can win. (5) BLACK VOLT came from a wide draw and from off the pace to run 3rd over 1300M on February 10th. He also has a 2nd to his name at 1000M and should be a threat today doing his best work late. (9) HONOR LORD returns for the first time since last September. He trialled up three times between December and February, winning two of them and posting good times, and must be taken seriously first-up here.  (4) SANGSANGGEUISANG has steadily improved across three starts so far, with a 4th place at 1300M on February 19th his most recent. He can sit behind the speed here and run on with every chance of a money finish. Debut-maker (2) UNJU BONNEUNG stopped the clock in a good time in his trial and a bold first-time showing is possible.

Selections(1) Cheerful Life (5) Black Volt (9) Honor Lord (4) Sangsanggeuisang
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 9

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

A maiden restricted to three-year-old fillies. The form doesn’t exactly leap off the page, so we’ll go with (4) BARAMUI HYANGGI, who has shown promise when running 5th and 4th in her first two starts, most recently at this distance on February 4th. She drew wide in both those races but gets a much better gate this time, her carried weight remains nice and light, and she has as good a chance as any here. (8) SEMYEONG LADY has run fairly in five starts so far with her best being a runner-up finish over 1200M in December. She also has the fastest time among any of these for the distance and she should be on pace and in the frame here. (1) HERO GANGJA has been 5th in both starts so far, racing on pace both times. She draws well here and should be aiming for improvement. (11) TUHON TEUKGEUP and (7) DAMJAENGI ARGO among others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections(4) Baramui Hyanggi (8) Semyeong Lady (1) Hero Gangja (11) Tuhon Teukgeup
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 10

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

Fillies (and one mare) only in this age open maiden and it’s a tricky race where the form is unconvincing, but plenty are plausibly in with a chance. Without much conviction, we’ll go with (6) AQUA MAGIC. She has two 4th places on her record including last time out when she was on pace and beat a couple of today’s rivals. She has the fastest start and may get an easy run to the lead here. If she, does, she may prove hard to pass. (7) PHANTOM QUEEN is two starts into a comeback following almost six months out. She weakened over 1400M last time out but should be better back at a trip at which she has the fastest time of any of these. (5) GREEN LEGEND hasn’t shown an awful lot in two starts so far but draws a good gate this time and can be competitive. (8) RICH COWBOY returned from almost two years out in December and ran an adequate 5th place. She can improve on that here. (1) PURPLE STAR returns after almost a year off and trialled up well enough to suggest that in this limited company, she can be competitive.

Selections(6) Aqua Magic (7) Phantom Queen (5) Green Legend (8) Rich Cowboy
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

(2) ARGO MUJEOK was a beaten favourite over 1200M on February 25th when he was a touch slower away than normal. He does have a 3rd place on his record at this distance and from a good gate and with Antonio climbing aboard, he can be given another chance (5) BADAUI KKUM had a hard time from a wide draw over 1400M at his latest start on February 19th. He was going well prior to that tough and looked to be knocking on the door of his first win, consistently going close. He comes back in trip today, gets a 2kg apprentice claim and draws well. It could be fifteenth time lucky. (6) SPEAR GOLD and (7) SEOUL SPURT both come in following improved 3rd place showings in their latest and can build on their respective momentum here. (1) CANDY GLOW another in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Argo Mujeok (5) Badaui Kkum (6) Spear Gold (7) Seoul Spurt
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (2) SPECIAL ROAD looks the one to beat. She got her maiden win at start number two over 1200M back in December and has since finished 3rd and 5th in two attempts at this class, both over six-furlongs. She comes up in distance and in the weights today, but that’s balanced by Franco climbing aboard and from a good gate she should be on pace and can lead all the way. (6) CUQUENAN registered her maiden win at this distance in December. She drew wide for her first crack at this class on January 13th and ran on fairly for 5th. She has had nine weeks off so comes in fresh and can get closer here. (4) WONDERFUL OCEAN enters off a 3rd place in a curious race over 1300M on February 10th (won at big odds by Statice, who also goes here). That marked a return to form after a couple of indifferent runs and she can build on it here. (10) QUALITY QUEEN and (7) DALEHOLRINGWANGDAE among others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(2) Special Road (6) Cuquenan (4) Wonderful Ocean (10) Quality Queen
Next Best7, 12
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

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

Fillies and mares only and (5) RAON EMPIRE will be hot favourite. After a 3rd and a 2nd from her opening two starts, she got her maiden win at the third time of asking over 1200M on February 11th when handy throughout. She comes up in class and slightly in trip here but this half-sister to Raon The Fighter should have far too much for her rivals. (7) WIDAEHAN HANMA got her maiden win two starts back and then ran a good 2nd on her first try at this class over 1400M on February 4th with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She only comes up 1kg in the weights and can be close again. (9) JANGBI MUJIGAE is yet to finish any worse than 5th from five starts so far and has a 4th and a 3rd from her two attempts at this level, both times going back and running on. She has a strong finish on her and can be running on again late here. (11) DAUL QUEEN and (1) MAPARAM among others to keep safe.

(more…)

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

It’s a long time since Moonhak Chief won the Korea Cup. He runs on Saturday (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (3) MAGUMA enters having run 2nd at this distance on February 11th when he settled behind the leaders and ran on. It wasn’t a fast race, but he does have quick a quick time to his name at 1200M and from a good gate and with an apprentice claim, he has every chance of going one better today. (4) RICH GATE has a 2nd and two 5th place finishes from three outings so far. In his latest two he has been on pace throughout, recording fair times over this trip, and he can lead and be in it a long way again here. (2) THUNDER BLUE also has a 2nd place in his record. He is another who has shown on the speed in his races so far and from a nice inside draw, can do the same again. (8) GWANGCHIGI looks a place chance while (1) DAEJANGBYEOL was promising on debut but then having been caught wide all the way from gate twelve on reappearance in January, weakened and then parted company with his jockey. Improvement is possible here.

Selections(3) Maguma (4) Rich Gate (2) Thunder Blue (8) Gwangchigi
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies here and (7) FINAL JILJU will be a hot favourite. She has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place on her latest on February 25th when running through the line well. Her style to date suggests that the additional half furlong should suit, and she won’t need to improve much to win here. (10) EVERY CHARM has a 3rd and a 4th from two prior attempts at this trip. She has tended to settle midfield and run on but there is very little speed here so despite the wide draw, she may find herself further forward today and in this company should be looking to match or better that 3rd. (6) HAEUNDAE GALMAEGI ran 5th behind Final Jilju on what was her debut in that February 25th race. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can improve here. (11) DIVINE PYEONGHWA and (5) BEAUTIFUL MELODY among other potential improvers.

Selections(7) Final Jilju (10) Every Charm (6) Haeundae Galmaegi (11) Divine Pyeonghwa
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 10, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A normal maiden here and it’s hard to look far past (5) BULUI NALGAE. He comes in following a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, both over this distance and both in fair times. He has tended to get a bit far back but from a good gate and in a race devoid of early speed, that shouldn’t happen today and he will be a warm favourite. The main danger is (8) STAND BY ME. He has the fastest time of any of these for the distance by some margin and while that was achieved on a wet track, he has gone well in the dry too. At his latest he was a close 4th over 1400M, and he should be in the mix once more. (2) WONPYEONG SKY was a significantly improved 3rd at start number three on February 19th, having overcome gate twelve to run on. He draws nicely here and with some natural improvement can match or better that finish today. That will mean overturning the form on (10) SILVER BOOSTER, who ran 2nd in that February 19th race. From the widest gate he may need a touch of luck at the start, but he can be competitive again. (6) SONGAM DRAGON another in the minor money hunt.

Selections(5) Bului Nalgae (8) Stand By Me (2) Wonpyeong Sky (10) Silver Booster
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

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

Another race, another short-priced favourite. This time it’s the turn of (1) GHOST CHARM who, wile he could only manage 6th of twelve when afforded a similar status over this distance on February 19th, can be given another chance. Two starts back he ran 2nd in a quick time over the distance and from the inside gate, Kim Jeong-jun should be able to avoid getting too far back and can pick his spot behind the leaders. If he can, then he should prove too strong. He doesn’t face a very strong set of opponents. (4) LAST PITCH is probably the best of the but he will need a line drawn through his latest at this distance on March 4th when he was scarcely involved after a slow start. Today, he should be able to get on pace and can place. (7) WORLD PLAY has a couple of positive results in his record and while his latest two haven’t been good, this is a weaker race and he can improve. (9) SAEROUN BITKKAL and (6) DAESEUNG GAON other placing potentials.

Selections(1) Ghost Charm (4) Last Pitch (7) World Play (9) Saeroun Bitkkal
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

It’s hard to oppose the standout favourite again. (10) GEUMA CHIC beat four of these on his way to a maiden victory last time out at class and distance on February 11th. He only comes up 2kg in the weights, which should be manageable, and while gate ten is not easy at the mile start, if he can find a good position without using up too much energy early or be caught wide heading into the back straight, he will take some beating. That draw does potentially leave some scope to take him on if so inclined. (1) GEUMSEONG SEGYE ran 2nd in that February 11th race having led for much of the way around. He has raced once since then, struggling from a wide draw over 1700M two weeks ago but with an apprentice claiming 4kg and drawing inside here, he has a chance of overturning the form. (5) BITNANEUN JILJU was a big odds winner at this class over 1700M on February 19th. He comes up a full 4kg in the weights but can be competitive again. (9) TANSAN and (3) SMART BLUE others to keep safe.

(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 17)

It’s Classic trials weekend with with Sunday seeing the Sports Seoul Trophy in the capital while Busan plays host to the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy. Before that though, the weekend’s action gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race program 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 maiden fillies in the opener with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (7) B.K. GALLOP shapes as the probable favourite having steadily improved across three starts so far with a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two. Those weren’t quick races, but she has shown on pace each time and with an apprentice jockey aboard, she carries the lightest weight. She should be on pace again and can go all the way. A couple of the first timers look useful. (8) HAERANG ISEUL ran 3rd in her trial having settled handy and she stopped the clock in a fair time. If she brings that form to the races, she can go well first-up. (9) HANEUL HAETSAL comes out of the same February 18th trial. She too showed prominently and crossed the line 3rd, a length and three-quarters in arrears of Haerang Iseul. She too can go well. Returning to experience, (4) ARION QUEEN improved when 4th at start number two and can continue to make progress here. (10) GEMIJIN another seemingly on the right trajectory.

Selections(7) B.K. Gallop (8) Haerang Iseul (9) Haneul Haetsal (4) Arion Queen
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 9

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

Three-year-old maidens here. After a quick trial, (7) LEMON DOKKI was sent off as favourite on debut over 1300M on February 19th. He was slowest away and settled at the back, before running on strongly for 2nd place, getting to within a length of the winner. He should have derived benefit from that run and with some natural improvement looks to be the one to beat here. (3) MORNING FLOW also comes out of that February 19th race over the same distance. He led for much of that race before being overhaled in the closing stages, finishing 3rd, just a neck behind Lemon Dokki. That was his third start and his second 3rd place finish and from a good draw, he can be on pace and in this a long way once more. (8) SPECIALIST has shown progress across his three starts to date, culminating in a good 2nd place at this distance on February 24th when he overcame the widest gate and only went down by half a length. He can het an easier run here and should be close. (11) RAON STRONG and (9) POWER PLANE others who have shown ability.

Selections(7) Lemon Dokki (3) Morning Flow (8) Specialist (11) Raon Strong
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start3, 8, 10, 11

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

Maidens. (10) K GOLD BAR comes in having beaten three of today’s rivals with an on pace run over a mile on February 26th. That wasn’t his first good result and while he draws a touch wide here, he should be able to work forward to be on or close to the speed and may well prove too good. The main danger looks to be (6) WISE BOY. He very nearly led from gate to wire over this distance on January 6th, ultimately being overhauled late on. That marked a change in tactics as previously he had been settled back, so a repeat looks likely here and he can be close again coming back off a ten-week layoff. (7) WONDERFUL IMPACT could be an improver at a probably each-way price. She has a 5th and a 7th from her two starts so far but she was on pace over a mile last time out and with the benefit of an apprentice claim, is down significantly in the weights. (2) STAR DRAGON and (1) SAVAGE GIRL among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(10) K Gold Bar (6) Wise Boy (7) Wonderful Impact (2) Star Dragon
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 10

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

(12) MULTI HIT led every step of the way to record his maiden win over 1200M on February 12th, crossing the line five-lengths in front of his nearest rival with a further six-lengths back to the 3rd placegetter. He is up in class here and the draw doesn’t do him any favours, but the manner of that win suggests there is more to come and he won’t need to improve much to win again.  (11) THEIA also comes up in class following a maiden win at her latest outing in ana ll-filly race over this distance on February 26th. The time wasn’t quick but she scored by a full four-lengths and there is no reason why she can’t measure up. She beat B.K. Gallop who is the probable favourite in race 1 on today’s card so that may provide a guide as to how strong that race actually was. (9) CHEONGMA POWER returned from nine months out to run a solid class and distance 3rd on February 3rd. She should strip fitter for that run and can be firmly in the frame here. (8) BLUE SKY and the up in class (2) SAEKDAL FIGHTER, the latter ideally drawn and weighted, are others to keep safe.

Selections(12) Multi Hit (11) Theia (9) Cheongma Power (8) Blue Sky
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

A small field tackles the two turns here and (4) WONDERFUL CHANCE will be a warm favourite. He is up in both class and in distance having scored over a mile on February 26th when settling handy before striking the front turning for home and running on strongly. The set weight scale here does him no favours but he appears to have plenty more scope for further development and the additional furlong can suit. (6) WONDERFUL FILE enters off a useful 4th place over a mile last time out on February 24th, albeit well back behind a good winner. She draws much better than she did on her only previous try at this distance when 5th behind a couple of today’s rivals, and she can be in the mix here. (9) DALLILAEYO remains winless but has only missed out on the top-five on one occasion. He comes up in class and in distance following back-to-back runner-up finishes over 1300M, but he has previously run well at a mile and the extended trop can suit. (2) ROCK AND ROLL and (3) CENTUM THOR are others in the hunt.

(more…)

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-by-Race Preview (March 12)

After an unseasonably mild day on Saturday, temperatures are set to fall back to normal and rain is expected on Sunday. Nevertheless, there is plenty to get stuck into on track with 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:00 to 15:40. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. (1) EUNBIT DOLPUNG will be the favourite. Hopes weren’t high on her debut after some inauspicious trials, but she ran well enough when it counted, finishing 4th over 1200M on February 4th. There should be some natural improvement from that run and if so, she will be hard to beat. (2) DAERYUN SIDAE has made progress across dour prior starts with her latest two being a 4th and a 3rd, both at 1200M. She did her best work late on each occasion and the additional half furlong can be in her favour. (9) RED TAEPUNG has hinted at ability with three 5th places among her first five appearances, including her latest which was at this distance. She is another who has finished off her races fairly and can run into a higher spot today. (7) SWEET PLAY and (6) MUJANG others to consider.

Selections(1) Eunbit Dolpung (2) Daeryun Sidae (9) Red Taepung (7) Sweet Play
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

A maiden for three-year-old fillies kicks things off on the South Coast. (5) WONDERFUL PHONE has a 2nd, 3rd and 4th from three starts so far, with the 3rd being at this distance when away slowly from a wide draw and finishing strongly. She looks nicely in here, and from a good gate can set up camp behind the speed and prove too good. (3) U PING was never a factor after being very awkwardly away when well fancied on February 10th. Her previous two efforts were solid though and from a much better draw, she warrants another chance here. (7) WONDERFUL RUNNING was a much-improved 3rd when tried at further than the minimum distance for the first time back in January. She has had nine weeks off since and she is another who the extra distance may suit. (6) B.K. NUMA enters off a close 2nd place at this distance on February 17th and will have plenty of backers. (4) VELOCIRAPTOR another who seems on the right trajectory.

Selections(5) Wonderful Phone (3) U Ping (7) Wonderful Running (6) B.K. Numa
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 9

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

A maiden for three-year-olds and another race with a warm favourite. This time it is (8) CHOEGANG HYEONMA. He has made good progress over his three starts so far culminating in runner-up finish over 1300M on February 11th, four-lengths adrift of the favourite and good winner, Daewang Socks, but a full six-lengths clear of anything else. That same performance should win this. There are three first-time starters and (2) SILVER PURGE is the pick of them. She won a trial from off the pace in February, stopping the clock in what was only a fair time, but was far clear of the rest. She draws nicely here and a bold showing first-up is possible. (3) GEUMBIT CHEONHA comes in off back-to-back 3rd places, most recently behind Choegang Hyeonma on February 11th. That means he has six-lengths to make up, but he draws better today and can get closer. (12) CHOEGANG NICE and (7) LEMON BLADE others in the frame.

Selections(8) Choegang Hyeonma (2) Silver Purge (3) Geumbit Cheonha (12) Choegang Nice
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 10

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

A very competitive maiden. The pin we’ve stuck in landed on (11) QUEENS LANDING who has shown signs in her latest couple of outings of having figured things out. They have ended in a 4th and a 3rd place finish, most recently over this distance on February 19th and while she is up 3kg in the weights here, that can be balanced by Park Jae-I climbing aboard and she can win. (8) TWOTWO FLYING has also been showing good form of late, particularly last time out when runner-up over this distance in a good time. She too comes up in the weights here, but she surely goes close again and may well start as the betting favourite. (6) SEONGSIL TAESOON was an on-pace 4th on debut over this distance on February 10th. She should have come on for that run, should be on the speed again and can match or better that finish here. (7) VEREUDA gets a better draw than she has in her last couple of appearances. She also comes back in trip and can be competitive. (9) PLAY THE INDY one of a number of others who can’t be discounted.

Selections(11) Queens Landing (8) Twotwo Flying (6) Seongsil Taesoon (7) Vereuda
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Small field here with (3) THUNDER BRAVO the one to beat. He has been consistent so far with six of his seven starts seeing him finish 4th or 5th. That includes his latest on February 11th when he led for much of the way around over 1300M, weakening late on. He comes back in trip here, draws nicely, and can go all the way this time. (4) SEONGEUN CROWN has two 3rd places to his name, including most recently on February 12th when running on from midfield. He has a strong finish on him and can be a danger late here. (8) DREAM SKY enters off an encouraging 4th place over this distance on February 5th. She will probably challenge Thunder Bravo for the early lead here and should be in the mix all the way. Solitary first time starter (7) MENI WIN trialed positively enough, crossing the line 3rd in a fair time and he can make his presence felt first-up. (2) SMART SOCKS another who could improve.

Selections(3) Thunder Bravo (4) Seongeun Crown (8) Dream Sky (7) Meni Win
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

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

After losing in the stewards’ room on debut in December, (9) GEUMA DEFT came out and put things right at start number two on January 27th, settling behind the leader early before taking things up a long way out and going on to win by five-lengths. He comes up in class and slightly in trip as well, but neither should be an issue and he can make it three from three in terms of crossing the line first here. The most logical danger is (5) JEOLDAE BOSS. He remains a maiden but comes up in class courtesy of having run 2nd in his latest two at 1300M and 1400M. He has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and under a light weight and a good gate, he should be on pace here and can go close. (7) GALLOP BOY enters off a 4th place in a very fast race over 1400M on February 10th when he drew wide and settled back. He has gone well at this distance in the past and remains nicely weighted. (8) SPECIAL TOGETHER and (1) PILGRIM others in the placing hunt.

Selections(9) Geuma Deft (5) Jeoldae Boss (7) Gallop Boy (8) Special Together
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

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

(3) GLOBAL CHANGA got her maiden win at start number two over 1000M last October before running 5th of ten in a decent time over 1200M behind Raon Giant in the Listed Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy for juveniles in November. She hasn’t raced since and hasn’t trialed either, but if she has retained her form, she will be hard to beat here. (11) CATS EYE similarly returns to action for the first time since November when he made all to win over 1000M. He therefore comes up in class and in trip here. He trialed in February in fair fashion and looks like the main danger. The rest of the form is patchy. (2) JANGSU NABOM and (4) LUCKY CROWN both have some decent results in their past although both will have to be forgiven their respective latest outings. The same goes for (9) TAKE MONEY who did at least have the excuse last time of being first-up after a lengthy lay off and can improve today.

(more…)

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

Highly thought-of three-year-old filly Raon Giant steps up to 1800M in the class 2 feature at Seoul on Saturday. She will be the main attraction on the 10-race card that runs from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Raon Giant easily won the Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy last November (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener and (10) APEX will be at the top of the market. After an inauspicious debut in November, she has since run in a 3rd and a 2nd in two subsequent starts, once from off the pace and once when on the speed, both at 1300M. Despite the wide draw she should have enough about her to get to the lead early here and she won’t have to improve much to win this. The main danger is (5) MUNHAK CENTRAL. She improved to 4th at start number two over this distance on February 4th when coming from well back and while she is yet to stop the clock in a fast time, she should appreciate the slight step up in trip and can continue to make progress. There are two debut-makes and (4) FIJI BLADE could be one to keep an eye on. She went through two trials, improving in the second of them when she led and from a good draw, she can be on pace and in this a long way. (9) LADY TAEPUNG and (2) HAPPY PLAY others who could come into play.

Selections(10) Apex (5) Munhak Central (4) Fiji Blade (9) Lady Taepung
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

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

Three-year-old maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. Three or four of these look ready to win but we’ll side with (9) K N GOLDEN KING. He ran a sold 3rd on debut when he settled midfield and ran on over the same trip as today. It wasn’t a quick race, but he should have derived benefit from the experience and Moon Se-young remains aboard. One of those ready to win is a debut-maker. That’s (1) BULPAE BLADE. Who led every step of the way to win a trial on February 17th in a decent time well clear of the rest. He draws very nicely to lead again and if he brings that form to the races, he can make a bold showing first up. (8) SMARTY FIGHTER improved to 2nd at start number two over this distance on February 4th. He carries the same weight and draws the same gate and can go close again. (7) SINUI HAMSEONG and (3) TAMRA CHOEGANGJA others in the hunt in one of the more intriguing recent maidens.

Selections(9) K N Golden King (1) Bulpae Blade (8) Smarty Fighter (7) Sinui Hamseong
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Regular maiden here and (4) TEUKGEUP DAERO is the one to beat. After a fair debut on Christmas Eve when she was slow away but rallied, she reappeared on February 4th to run a good 2nd behind the favourite over this distance when settling midfield and finishing well. With a little more natural improvement from that, she can win. (5) SONGAM ARCHGIRL is the clear second pick. She managed three top-four finishes from four starts in the first half of last year before suffering a setback that saw her unable to race after June. She looked very well when 2nd in a January trial and while she will clearly need this, it is hardly the most intimidating race to return in. (2) HUMMING BIRD had a poor day at the office at his latest outing in December. Going on his previous start when 2nd at 1200M in November, then he can be right in this (9) BEST PLAN and (3) AREUMDAUN SAI potential improvers.

Selections(4) Teukgeup Daero (5) Songam Archgirl (2) Humming Bird (9) Best Plan
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Weak maiden which (3) CAMINO should be winning. He has raced just three times with his best being 3rd over 1200M on Christmas Day but he stepped up to this trip on February 26th and ran 5th of twelve  in a time faster than any of the others have managed for the distance. He won’t need to improve much to win, probably leading all the way. (1) TIZ HUNTER got his best result to date when coming up to this distance for the first time on February 12th. He settled right back as he had in every start so far but for the first time was able to run on and finish 3rd, beating a couple of today’s rivals. A similar run will see plenty come back to him again here. (8) GREEN BULPAE was 4th behind Tiz Hunter in that February race, similarly coming from off the pace. That was a marked improvement for her too and she can be considered. (7) CLAIR POWER and (5) UDDUG other placing chances.

Selections(3) Camino (1) Tiz Hunter (8) Green Bulpae (7) Clair Power
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 7

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

Having run 2nd on debut, (7) ORCHID VALLEY was a good winner at start number two on January 14th, providing Antonio Da Silva his 300th Korean winner in the process. He comes up in class here as well as marginally up in trip, but he comes down in the weights and from a central draw can sit handy and prove too strong. (6) STRENGTH got his maiden win in eye-catching fashion two starts back but was a touch disappointing when sent off as favourite for his first try at class and distance on February 11th, leading for much of the way but ultimately weakening to finish in the middle of the pack. He can be given another chance here. (9) MAGLE DAY comes up in class having won at start number four over this distance on February 11th, having raced handy throughout. He had been building up to that win and with some more natural improvement, he can measure up here. (8) RIVER TAEYANG and (2) COWBOY TANGO are others who can enter the calculations.

(more…)

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

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

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

A maiden for three-year-olds opens proceedings. There are three debut-makers and at least one of them looks interesting.  (5) JANGSAN LEMON is half-brother to a couple of good talents and having gained almost 20kg since a trio of trials last year, he was well held together when winning a February heat in a good time without being asked to do too much. He will be well backed on debut and has every chance. (3) EVERY KING IJI was much improved when 2nd at start number two on February 23rd and from a much better gate can back that up here. (12) JORDAN FIGHTING came from of the pace to run a good 4th in a quick race on debut on February 12th. The wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and with some natural improvement he should be right in this. First-timer (11) CHOEGANG WEEK was an on-pace 3rd in her trial in a fast time on a wet track on February 11th. She was asked for a little more effort than Jangsan Lemon was but if she brings that form to the races, a bold showing first-up is possible. (8) MOVIE MORE was inconvenienced coming out of the gates at this latest effort, but going on his showing on debut, should be competitive here.

Selections(5) Jangsan Lemon (3) Every King Iji (12) Jordan Fighting (11) Choegang Week
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) BUDDY BUDDY didn’t disgrace himself when tried in Listed juvenile company last November and has since registered back-to-back 4th places over 1400M and 1200M, beating a couple of these along the way. He draws well to get on the speed here and he should prove too good. (1) BUILD UP remains a maiden after nine attempts but has gone close on a few occasions. They include his latest when he overcame gate twelve to get handy to the leaders and ran on for 4th ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He draws much better here so should get an easier run and can be in the finish again. (8) TITAN K is another maiden, but his recent form reads fairly and at his best he can be in the frame here. (4) OK STAR and (5) ADELE CHUKBAE others in the placing hunt. The latter was in abysmal form last year but comes in off five months out and looked good when trialling just last week.

Selections(2) Buddy Buddy (1) Build Up (8) Titan K (4) OK Star
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) NAKDONG JEONSA offered little in two outings last autumn but looked a much better prospect when returning from three months out at the beginning of last month and running 2nd over 1300M having settled midfield and run on well. He should strip fitter for the run, he comes up to the mile for the first time, and he can win here. (10) TOP FRIEND was ridden handy for the first time on his latest appearance, but it proved unsuccessful as he weakened. He had previous had good results having gone to the back of the field and then finishing off well for 4th and 2nd over 1200M and 1300M. The wide draw may actually be in his favour here and the additional trip can suit. (4) FLYING TOUCH is another who may appreciate the additional distance. Her times over the shorter courses have been nothing special but she has finished off her last two well, running 5th on both occasions and she should be aiming to get in the money here. (6) SUNDAY MONEY and (5) DAEJI FLY are the other placing contenders.

Selections(2) Nakdong Jeonsa (10) Top Friend (4) Flying Touch (6) Sunday Money
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (1) GOLDEN WAVE ran 2nd on debut in January before getting her maiden win at start number two over this distance on February 10th, making all. Both those were in all-filly company and it’s the same again today so despite being up in class, she should be using her good draw to get on pace and win again. (9) DIABLO QUEEN come sin off a very quick win at class and distance on February 10th when on pace throughout. She was second up that day following almost ten months off and with an apprentice engaged here she barely comes up in weight. She looks the main danger to the favourite. (6) DOCTOR SHARK came from off the pace to get her first win, also on February 10th. She is up in class but down in weight and she can measure up amongst this lot. (3) TWO TWO LIME and (5) BREAD HIT others to keep safe.

Selections(1) Golden Wave (9) Diablo Queen (6) Doctor Shark (3) Two Two Lime
Next Best5, 12
Fast Start1, 5, 9, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(5) INDIE BULPAE returned seven months after an inauspicious debut to win well first-up over a mile in January. He then came up to this class on February 12th and led for much of the way around over this distance before ultimately running 2nd to Pistol Star, but beating three of today’s rivals in the process. He carries his fair share of weight here but he should prove to good and will start as hot favourite. The second favourite will be (7) DOCTOR PERO. He has similar form having won at class 6 level over a mile two starts back before coming from off the pace to run 2nd on his first try at this class and distance on January 27th. That was a much slower race than Indie Bulpae’s but he can be a danger. Next best is (9) ADELE STELLA. She is yet to finish in the top-two in eleven attempts but she has no fewer then eight finishes between 3rd and 5th including last time out at this class and distance. She may find a couple too quick again but shouldn’t be far away. (6) FIRST PARK and (3) RUNNING WARRIOR others in the frame.

(more…)

Raon The Spurt, Speed Young Return To Winning Ways

Raon The Spurt was a beaten favourite in the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy in January, but the four-year-old filly went some way to making amends with an authoritative performance in Sunday’s Class 1 feature at Seoul, downing Segye victor Wow Wow by three-lengths.

Raon The Spurt won the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup last November (Pic: KRA)

After a successful three-year-old campaign that saw her finish runner-up in the Triple Tiara series before winning the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup at Group 3 level against older fillies and mares, Raon The Spurt was sent off as favourite in the Segye Ilbo. But on a day when the going was brutal for front-runners, she ran out of petrol in the home straight, finishing back in the pack as Wow Wow took the glory.

There were no such issues this time around in Sunday’s class 1 finale over 1400M. Punters kept faith with Raon The Spurt, sending her off as the even-money favourite. Under Lee Hyeok, who replaced the suspended Choi Bum-hyun in the saddle, Raon The Spurt was quickly into the lead and she proceeded to keep the rest of the field at arm’s length throughout, with Wow Wow ultimately getting the closest. Long-shot Preemax was 3rd.

The win was Raon The Spurt’s seventh from fourteen starts and stands her in good stead ahead of this year’s Queens’ Tour series, which begins in April. Raon The Spurt is by Musket Man and is out of Tomiken Spring (by Japanese sire Suzuka Mambo). Her three-year-old “full” sister and stablemate with trainer Park Jong-kon, Raon The Quality, has three wins from six starts and is penciled-in to race in Seoul’s Classic Trial on April 19th.

On Friday at Busan, Speed Young worked his way back into Classic contention with a fine win at class 3 level over a mile.

A Menifee colt, Speed Young, who won the Breeders’ Cup champion juvenile race over 1400M in December, had begun his three-year-old campaign in disappointing fashion, weakening badly in the final furlong over a mile in January.

By contrast over the same trip on Friday, Speed Young struck the front on the home turn and stayed on strongly to down a field that included top-rated three-year-old filly Jeulgeounyeojeong.

Trained by Bang Dong-suk, who saddled Hit Yegam to two legs of the Triple Crown in 2021, Speed Young doesn’t hold an entry into the Listed Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy, Busan’s official Classic trial on March 19th. However, his rating is already high enough to ensure him a spot in the gate for the first leg of this year’s Triple crown, the KRA Cup Mile, at Busan on Sunday April 30th.  

Meanwhile the saga of Park Tae-jong’s 2,200th career winner will drag on into another weekend. The jockey, who has won more races than any other in Korean racing history, has been on 2,199 since February 5th and drew a blank from seven rides across the weekend, a runner-up finish on Joeun Gwangye  in race 10 on Sunday. His winless streak now stands at thirty-four.

Racing returns to Korea at Busan on Friday.