Author: gyongmaman

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 23)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 12 races from 10:45 to 18:00. The feature is the Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup, the top race at the track open to imported juveniles. A full field of 14 will line up for the Listed event over six-furlongs.

There were 2 dead-heats for minor placings at Busan yesterday

In other news, Royce (@Roycee28) is back in Korea and chips in with today’s previews:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

There are plenty of two-year-olds on debut in the first of the day. The effort of (9) SHINE FIGHTER on debut was good when going down a length to finish third behind Raon Dancer. The Rock Hard Ten filly clocked 61.8 for the 1000m on a good track. She’s drawn somewhat awkward but we saw her be one of the first to leave last time out so it should not be an issue. (10) GLOBAL THUNDER was overshadowed by winner Raon Tap Man when debuting last start to go down nine lengths and finish second. Regardless of the margin, he still ran 61.6 on a good track which will see him go a long way in this assignment. (6) ULTRA ANNIE overcame a wide gate on debut to finish third. She was beaten five lengths, but with the better draw she should get closer to the fence and enjoy a more economical run. (2) UNOECHANGCHEON is on debut but trialed well when qualifying. She is by a little known stallion in Tout but her dam won her a couple over 1400m. Watch what she does today as a guide.

Selections (9) Shine Fighter (10) Global Thunder (6) Ultra Annie (2) Unoechangcheon

Next Best 3, 8

Fast Start 9, 10

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Another bunch of two-year-olds are engaged in the second with five of them previously having a start. The unraced (5) LUISA looks one that may be ready to hit the ground running early. She covered additional ground due to a wide draw in her trial and let down nicely in the straight to finish second. She is by Federalist and out of a handy mare in Kkakjaengi who won six races and amassed over US$500k. She’s a well-developed two-year-old (477kg) and will be watched with interest. (1) CUPID HONEY showed speed his first start before tiring in the straight. The time was respectable when comparing it to his opposition. Expect improvement second-up. (12) MONEY SILK was beaten a big margin on debut when fourth behind Geuma Kitten. The Any Given Saturday colt will improve off his first run when he ran through the line fairly. (7) BRAVO GWACHEON is expected to be in the market. He is another one beaten a big margin on debut but did manage to beat the majority of the field home.

Selections (5) Luisa (1) Cupid Honey (12) Money Silk (7) Bravo Gwacheon

Next Best 11, 6

Fast Start 1

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

The third on the card has twelve runners engaged with most coming of sub-par performances. (2) NONGBUI SUCHEAHWA looks hard to beat after finishing second last start over the 1000m. The Exploit filly settled midfield and let down nicely to record a good time of 61.8 on a dry track. If she can settle close to the speed from a good draw she should take some beating. Alan Munro will be legged aboard (5) COMPLETE MOTION who has placed over the 1300m prior. She settled well back last time out as early speed is not her forte, however with a slightly better draw she may be able to position behind the leading division and run into the money. (12) DASI DUSON will be given her first run beyond 1000m. The two-year-old will be partnered by Kim Deok-Hyeon who will most likely let her find her own feet early on in the race. (8) CHOGANGGUK passed a few in the straight last time out and is worth including in the novelties.

Selections (2) Nongbui Sucheahwa (5) Complete Motion (12) Dasi Duson (8) Chogangguk

Next Best 5, 12

Fast Start 7, 10

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

The fourth race has another field of maidens lining up over the 1300m. (9) SAENAE SPURT has improved with each run and based on his last effort looks a winning chance. The son of Menifee only went down half a length last time out over the same distance when running a handy time on a good rated track. Look for his four white socks hitting the line strong. On exposed form it appears (6) CHEONNYEONUI GODO looks a good each-way chance. The Clear Attempt colt finished second last time out behind Manse when overcoming the outside draw. Lee Dong-Ha retains the ride with previous performances suggesting he will work forward shortly after they jump. (8) POWER PRIDE was fair last time out when finishing fifth over the 1300m. He was ridden closer to the speed than anticipated and may appreciate less pressure in the early stages. (2) DIECO improved at his second start to place over the 1000m. Keep him safe in the minor placings as he attempts the 1300m for the first time.

Selections (9) Saenae Spurt (6) Cheonnyeonui Godo (8) Power Pride (2) Dieco

Next Best 11, 4

Fast Start 4, 5

Race 5: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A field of twelve will line up over the two turns in the fifth on the card. Consistent type (5) GEUMA ZENITH looks the one to beat as he continues on his way through the grades. The Hansen colt finished third last time out over the 1700m behind Saba Kingdom whilst the start beforehand he won in similar company to this race. Drawn gate five he should works forward to sit on speed and proved hard to run down albeit with the 57kg on his

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race preview (November 22)

It’s the first of two big weekends for the country’s top juveniles but first of all there is an eleven-race Friday card at Busan from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Glitter

Glitter seeks a hat-trick of victories at Busan on Friday (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Maiden fillies to kick things off. Plenty come in with encouraging recent form and (9) TNUNDER VEGAS is the slight pick having beaten a few of these on her way to 5th and 4th place finishes in her latest two outings. Expect her to be close to the early pace here and she can go closer once more. (4) MAGIC STEALTH and (8) CHODONG JINJU both come in having recorded 3rd places in their respective latest outings and can match or better that today while (10) HUIMANG SOYEO showed significant improvement when registering a 3rd of her own two weeks ago and can build on that performance here. There are two first-time starters and (6) TOP QUEEN looks a prospect. She went through a trial in May and then again earlier this month, both times looking sharp and can go well first-up.

Selections (9) Thunder Vegas (6) Top Queen (4) Magic Stealth (8) Chodong Jinju
Next Best 10, 7
Fast Start 6, 7, 8, 9

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Small field of nine but a big prize for these juveniles. It’s hard to look past (1) FANTASTIC WINNER. Having won a trial in September, he was just beaten a head on debut over 1000M on October 18th with a couple off his rivals here well back down the track behind him. The additional trip shouldn’t be an issue and he should win. (4) TOP BEST and (2) BURNING STAR ran 3rd and 6th in that race and both can build on those reasonably promising debuts today although the main danger is set to be (5) YEONGSEONG VICTORY. He also ran 2nd on his debut a month ago and looks to have plenty of ability. (8) FUTURE KING best of the rest.

Selections (1) Fantastic Winner (5) Yeongseong Victory (4) Top Best (8) Future King
Next Best 2, 9
Fast Start 1, 5, 8

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens here with three of the ten racing for the first time. One of those first-timers is the pick. (2) GABO DAY is from the track’s top stable and looked competent trialling up with plenty to spare last month. This looks a sensible distance to debut at and he can win. (3) MASTER KING steps up in trip following a solid 4th place on debut five weeks ago and should be one of the main dangers. (5) MARK STAR finished last on his first try at the beginning of last month and was accordingly sent back to trial. He looked a different animal, romping home in his heat by eight lengths and should be much better today. (6) DONGNIP YEOLGANG and (7) CHEONNYEONUI GIL are others in the frame.

Selections (2) Gabo Day (3) Master King (5) Mark Star (7) Cheonnyeonui Gil
Next Best 6, 8
Fast Start 2, 3, 8

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRWS 24 Million

After a tilt at a mile last time, (2) CHEONNYEONUIHEUIMA drops back to the 1300M over which she ran 2nd, beaten a head, back in August. She’ll come from just off the pace and today could well be her day. (7) YEONGWON DYNAMO stepped up to this trip last start and finished a useful 3rd, which she can build on today, while (12) QUEEN UP was an much improved 2nd in a similar race to this four weeks ago, coming from well off the pace with a strong late run. (1) TOP SKY ran 5th on debut and is bound to get backing given the jockey/trainer combination. (11) WONDERFU EI is another who can go close.

Selections (2) Cheonnyeonuiheuima (7) Yeongwon Dynamo (12) Queen Up (1) Top Sky
Next Best 11, 3
Fast Start 1, 4, 9

Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

It took her fourteen attempts but the manner in which (5) ECHO NILE registered her maiden win three weeks ago, was certainly eye-catching, making all to win by two-lengths over 1300M. She carries an additional 4kg today, but a repeat looks very much on the cards. (12) SPEED FURY returned from eight months off at the end of October to take his record to three wins from four starts. He carries even more weight than Echo Nile but looks a talent and must be considered a danger. (2) BLACK EAGLE WING has been 4th in both starts so far and can improve today while (3) YEONGGWANGUI SAVE and (7) AMAZING TAPIT are others who can at least place.

Selections (5) Echo Nile (12) Speed Fury (2) Black Eagle Wing (7) Amazing Tapit
Next Best 3, 8
Fast Start 5, 6, 7

Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) CURLIN TIME was a promising looking juvenile this time last year but having finished (more…)

Kookje Shinmun Cup Sunday – Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (November 17)

It’s Kookje Shinmun Cup Day at Busan with a host of well-known names contesting the Listed event over 1400M. There are 6 races at Busan from 12:40 to 17:05 as well as 11 in Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00.

today

Today (Pic: Ross Holburt)

Last year’s Kookje winner Ace Korea returns but he’ll not be favourite in a field that includes stablemate King Of Glory, as well as the likes of Today, Doraonpogyeongseon, Sprin Back and Bright Cat. A preview of the race is at the bottom along with Busan selections while race-by-race for Seoul follows here:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Weak but competitive maiden to begin with. (8) PRETTY JOY and (4) JOLLY ROGER came home 4th and 5th when they raced each other over this distance on October 27th. While that race was arguably even weaker than this, both look to be improving and they should be among those disputing the finish today. (5) GANGHAN YEOJEONSA improved to 5th last time in what was a stronger event than this and she can continue to make progress today while (10) HWARYEO and (11) SPEED FLYING are others with potential to get better.

Selections (4) Jolly Roger (8) Pretty Joy (5) Ganghan Yeojeonsa (10) Hwaryeo
Next Best 11, 7
Fast Start 4, 6, 7

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Another maiden that falls into the weak but ultra-competitive category. (6) ROCK LINE did nothing on debut in September but significantly improved when only beaten half a length into 2nd over this distance last month. He led until the closing stages that day and is well drawn to get to the front once more. This time he can win. (1) STORM FORCE and (2) PENUMBRA are the only other two in the race to have a runner-up finish to their names and that in itself puts them into contention here. (9) ANYANG JAGUAR and (10) HAMYANG SANGRIM also come in with recent form looking positive and both can be competitive here.

Selections (6) Rock Line (1) Storm Force (10) Hamyang Sangrim (9) Anyang Jaguar
Next Best 2, 4
Fast Start 1, 6, 7, 10

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(9) MILKY SHERRY made an inauspicious start to her career, but she’s been getting closer over her latest three and ran 3rd on her latest start just two weeks ago. She’s been ridden forward in her last couple of outings, which has seemed to help, and if she can get to the lead early today, she can win. (8) COLORS DE LAGO was 5th behind Milky Sherry in that race on November 3rd and she will be one of the threats here although more serious challenges may come from (5) MONEY LINE and (10) MAD DIVA, the latter especially putting in a fast time in a much better race than this last start. (4) GOLD PARK another who can compete for the minor money.

Selections (9) Milky Sherry (10) Mad Diva (5) Money Line (8) Colors De Lago
Next Best 4, 2
Fast Start 8, 9

Race 4: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(6) OKRYONG ran an improved 2nd on what was just his second career start on October 13th. He was well beaten by a very nice-looking winner but showed enough to suggest he (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 16)

It’s become quite chilly in Seoul the past few days and some Friday downpours have left the track in a wet condition. Bear that in mind when handicapping the 12 Saturday races which run from 10.45 to 18.00. Here are the previews:

Splashing through the wet in trials yesterday

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Good looking juvenile maiden with six first-timers joining four with prior racing experience. Of those who have raced before, (7) WILD WOODS and (5) LUCKY SANGUN are the most convincing having both registered decent performances at this distance and both will be well supported here. We will side with one of the debut-makers though. (4) ALPHA DOK impressed in a trial two weeks ago, running 3rd in a fast time in a competitive heat and won’t need to improve too much on that to be right in the mix here. (1) GWANGYA SIDAE and (2) BALBATU are others who caught the eye in trials, the former winning hers, and both also have claims to go well first-up.

Selections (4) Alpha Dok (7) Wild Woods (1) Gwangya Sidae (5) Lucky Sangun
Next Best 2, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 8

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

The second division of the juvenile maiden doesn’t look quite as strong. Six of the eleven have raced before with the most convincing of them being (8) BEST GUNDAN. He’s appeared twice, improving to 4th in the most recent of them over this distance. He was well beaten by a good winner, but his time was considerably superior to anything the others here have achieved. (9) DAHAENGIDA was 7th in that race and has potential to improve while (1) WONDERFUL AGAIN has struggled with poor manners in two starts to date and may be better dropped in trip today. Of the debut-makers, (4) JILJUUI KKUM and (10) SPRING COME look the most likely to make an impact.

Selections (8) Best Gundan (9) Dahaengida (4) Jiljuui Kkum (10) Spring Come
Next Best 1, 11
Fast Start 1, 3, 6, 8

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

The final lot of juvenile maidens although this time over 1300M. (2) FIGHTING NOW ran a close 2nd on debut on October 20th, beaten just half a length. He ran on well and the additional distance today should suit. (5) CHODONG ROCKET was a bit further back on his debut, running 3rd also over 1000M. He too ran on gamely and is likely to join Fighting Now in contesting the early speed. (3) YEOLRIN MUN and (9) QUIET ADELE are the only two in the race to have appeared on more than one occasion already. Both have shown promise with Quiet Adele perhaps the most progressive at this point. As for the rest, (4) JEONGMUN BOLT overcame poor manners to run 5th on debut behind Fighting Now and if he fixes them, can get closer today.

Selections (2) Fighting Now (5) Chodong Rocket (9) Quiet Adele (3) Yeolrin Mun
Next Best 4
Fast Start 2, 3, 5

Race 4: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

More maidens although this time it’s not restricted to juveniles. With a 2nd and a 3rd among her four starts so far, (6) MASEONG TUHON needs only a top three finish to find herself up in class next time. She should really be bowing out of the bottom tier of racing with a win over this lot and should be on pace from the start. There are a couple of other promising ones too here. (1) OUR SIMON raced a couple of times around the turn of the year without making an impression but returned in September to run a good 3rd over 1300M. A top jockey is on and if she is right, she should go close. (8) BODY STAR was an improved 4th in a decent time on his latest a month ago and can build on that today while (7) EAST CHAMP and (10) FLYING THOR are others in the hunt.

Selections (6) Maseong Tuhon (1) Our Simon (8) Body Star (7) East Champ
Next Best 10, 2
Fast Start 1, 2, 6, 8

Race 5: Class 4 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) CUPID MISSION was a winner on debut at class and distance on October 12th, making all in a fast time as the odds-on favourite. The Mission Impazible colt will be odds-on again today and should be repeating. (5) ULTRA CHAMPION returned from eight months out to run a good 3rd over the distance a month ago and can build on that today while (1) MOONHAK CHAMPION, well back behind Cupid Mission on debut, looks to have potential to improve. The biggest danger, however, may come from one of the two debut-makers. (6) CAPTAIN BULLET was a solid trial winner and should go well first up.

Selections (3) Cupid Mission (6) Captain Bullet (5) Ultra Champion (1) Moonhak Champion
Next Best 7, 9
Fast Start 3, 5, 6

Race 6: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(2) FIGHTING LANGFUHR has raced six times and while yet to win, has picked up three runner-up finishes including last start over 1200M. From gate 2m he can sit handy behind the speed and finish strongly here. (4) DORAON POPEYE picked up a warning for hanging outwards in the home straight on his debut on October 13th but still managed to finish in 3rd place, just a nose out of 2nd. If he fixes those manners today, then he has every chance. (8) MY ROMEO did nothing wrong on his own debut a month ago and can build on the 4th he achieved that day. Almost a year separated the first and second appearances of (6) GLOBAL BOSS but he looked well on his return when 3rd at the end of September. (5) DRAGON BOAT, up in class here, looks best of the rest.

Selections (2) Fighting Langfuhr (4) Doraon Popeye (8) My Romeo (6) Global Boss
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 7

Race 7: Class 2 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

Really good race. (8) RAYMOND is finally living up to his potential having won four of his latest five. The most recent was his first tilt around this trip and while up in class today, he’s nicely in and is favoured to win again. Also up in class after a strong of good results is (5) ACTIMON. He ran a strong 2nd over 1800M last start and looks nicely in here to go strongly. It’s quite possible that neither of those will be favourite though. (6) MUNHAK TSUNAMI has run 2nd and 3rd in two starts at class 2 so far. He is versatile and ran on really well over 1400M last time. This will be the furthest distance he’s tried, and it may well suit. (3) URI disappointed over 1900M last time out but has talent and is worth another chance. (1) MUNHAK TIGER and (10) TAP FASHIONED others who can go close.

Selections (8) Raymond (6) Munhak Tsunami (5) Actimon (3) Uri
Next Best 1, 10
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 6

Race 8: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(5) TANK SOCKS was a winner on debut back in September, narrowly scoring over this distance. He’s had eight weeks off since then and returns here up in class, with claims once more. 3rd that day was (2) WORLD BEYOND. He came back out in October and registered a win of his own and he too comes up in class here. He made all that day despite racing rather ungenerously at times and while today’s is a stiffer assignment, he is the slight choice to overturn the form on Tank Socks. (10) KING OF SUNDAY has a 3rd and a 2nd since returning from nine months off and can place again here while (6) FEDERAL CAT remains a maiden but has already proven himself competitive in this kind of company and looks in amongst it here. (1) WONDERFUL PANGPANG best of the rest.

Selections (2) World Beyond (5) Tank Socks (10) King Of Sunday (6) Federal Cat
Next Best 1, 7
Fast Start 2, 5, 8, 10

Race 9: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(1) SOLGAEBARAM may have only managed 6th place in each of her latest two starts but both have been better races than this and the margins have not been big. She’s drawn inside today, should be on speed from the start, and can win. (10) MACH THUNDER is up in class having come from off the pace to win well over this distance on October 19th. His manners weren’t the best, but he’s got a nice turn of foot and should be dangerous here. Outgoing trainer Simon Foster saddles (2) KOOKA CAT, a good maiden winner last start and who can be competitive here while (5) ECHO FIRST ON and (11) CHEONSE MANSE are others in the hunt.

Selections (1) Solgaebaram (10) Mach Thunder (2) Kooka Cat (5) Echo First On
Next Best 11, 4
Fast Start 1, 2, 12

Race 10: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(1) GEUM ROYAL steps up in class off the back of a nice win over this distance on October 19th. This is a good race for class 5 level but everything about him suggests he can be competitive at this level and from gate 1 he can sit nice and handy behind the early speed and launch a strong challenge late on. (3) LUMINESCE has consistently run good times at this distance and seems to have landed in a nice spot here. He’s also drawn well to get on the early speed. (11) JEJUI HEUKSEON showed a big uptick in form when 2nd last start and can build on that today while (2) SPEED BELLE is better than recent results suggest and can get closer here. (8) P.K. JEONSA best of the rest.

Selections (1) Geum Royal (3) Lumincesce (11) Jejui Heukseon (2) Speed Belle
Next Best 8, 6
Fast Start 2, 3, 8, 12

Race 11: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) MAMMA ROMA was 5th in the Korean Oaks before wilting a little over 2000M in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup. She dropped back to 1300M to run 2nd at the end of August and has since been off twelve weeks. She returns here looking nicely in and is the favourite to score here. (7) HANYANG GONGJU ran 5th in a tight race at class and distance last start and looks set to get much closer today while (2) GEOM HYANG may be better for being given a bit of extra distance to play with this time. (5) TAURUS and (6) DONG JAK have placing claims.

Selections (3) Mamma Roma (7) Hanyang Gongju (2) Geom Hyang (6) Dong Jak
Next Best 5
Fast Start 4, 6

Race 12: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(7) BEST STAR won four from four between January and May progressing rapidly through the classes before suffering a bad injury that has kept him out since. He showed no ill-effects when blitzing a trial earlier this month and can return victorious today. Should he be rusty then (10) GAENARI SONG could be one to take advantage. He only managed 6th when favourite last start a month ago but he was slowly away, and the margins weren’t big. Expect him to do better today. (3) MACHA BUCHA and (8) NIMUI HYANGGI ran home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at class and distance on October 6th and both should be in the placing hunt again. (9) GEUMSEONGHWANGJE is another to consider for the minor money.

Selections (7) Best Star (10) Gaenari Song (8) Nimui Hyanggi (3) Macha Bucha
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 2, 6, 7, 11, 12

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 15)

The weekend’s racing kicks off on the South Coast on Friday with Busan Racecourse hosting 11 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seo Seung Un Glitter

Seo Seung-un returned from an extendede spell on the naughty step last week with winners and he looks in line to ride more at Busan On Friday

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens to kick things off with only two of the ten having previous racing experience. And those two are likely to be at the head of the betting market. (10) MIRACLE DREAMING debuted back on October 11th and ran 4th, despite running off with two furlongs to go and finishing the race on the grandstand rail. He got sent back to trial, which he won, and if he fixes his manners today, is in with a real chance. (1) MAN OF THE WORLD debuted the same day last month and ran 7th in a useful time. He should have come on for that and is the main danger. Of the first-time starters, (6) TOP LUCKY was a trial winner and will be backed first-up while (2) MORNING THUNDER and (9) BAEDARI SUNSHINE also looked competent in their respective heats.

Selections (10) Miracle Dreaming (1) Man Of The World (6) Top Lucky (9) Baedari Sunshine
Next Best 2, 5
Fast Start 1, 6, 9, 10

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens and once more just two of the ten have raced before. Once more they’ll be the market leaders. (9) HALLA BIHO ran 2nd on debut on October 4th, beaten by the same filly who beat her in her trial. It was a good time and she looks the one to beat here. (6) PINEUI KKUM has raced twice and in between those had the distinction of finishing ahead of Triple Nine in a trial. His latest outing saw home run 5th over 1300M four weeks ago, leading for part of the way around and dropping back in trip today, he should continue to improve. Turning to the debut-makers. (1) K.B. BOSS ran 2nd in a fast trial earlier this month and looks to be the pick of them while (2) K-POP DANCER and (5) BURNING FLY are others who demonstrated some potential.

Selections (9) Halla Biho (6) Pineui Kkum (1) K.B. Boss (2) K-Pop Dancer
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 1, 4, 6, 9

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

More maidens and (7) JEONSEOLUI PUNCH is banker favourite of the day. At least he’ll almost certainly be the shortest priced. He didn’t do much on debut in September but has since run in a 3rd and a 2nd and was only beaten a neck last start on October 25th. He’ll be on pace here and it’s hard to see him getting beaten. (4) RAINBOW PARK and (1) WONDERFUL IJI are the only others in the race to have a runner-up finish to their names. In the case of Rainbow Park, it was last start four weeks ago and he can build on it here. Wonderful Iji meanwhile is one race into a comeback following seven months out and should improve on the 5th she scored that day. (3) CHARGE POWER and (6) WONDERFUL CITY have placing claims.

Selections (7) Jeonseolui Punch (4) Rainbow Park (1) Wonderful Iji (6) Wonderful City
Next Best 3, 5
Fast Start 4, 5, 7, 10

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(3) DREAM CHASER was a much improved 2nd on what was his fourth start on October 18th. It wasn’t a strong race and he was seven-lengths behind the winner, but his time was good, and he can challenge again here. (8) WAKANDA has hinted at ability over four appearances to date and having been slowly away, ran on well for 6th on his first try at this distance last start. The jockey booking will turn a few heads today. (7) SAEROUN SEUNGJA finished ahead of Wakanda three starts back and managed a 5th in better company than this last time out. He’s a little one-paced but should have enough about him to be close here. (4) INDIAN CHUJANG and (5) MYEONGGA DAERO are other who may improve.

Selections (8) Wakanda (3) Dream Chaser (7) Saeroun Seungja (4) Indian Chujang
Next Best 5, 1
Fast Start 3, 4, 11

Race 5: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Small field for the final maiden of the day. (5) DOCTOR SKY should have the edge. An also-ran in the GC Trophy on his second career start, he stepped up to this trip last time and beat a couple of his rivals here on his way to a solid 2nd place. He should be on pace from the start today and can win. The pair he beat in that race, (8) JANGGUNEUI JILJU and (7) NAGWON DAERO are both capable of improving on their last start finishes although a bigger threat may turn out to be (2) KING OF JOY. He’s two starts into a comeback following six months off and ran a good 4th last time out two weeks ago over 1300M. (1) TEXAS GONGJU another who can challenge for some minor money.

Selections (5) Doctor Sky (2) King of Joy (8) Jangguneui Jilju (7) Nagwon Daero
Next Best 1, 4
Fast Start 1, 5

Race 6: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(7) IRON WARRIOR comes in having run a good 2nd in a similar strength race to this on October 13th, beating a couple of these in the process. That day’s winner has gone on to win again and from a handy position, Iron Warrior can go on to win today.  (10) TANGENT returned to action for the first time since January to run 3rd over this distance (more…)

Jeju Governor’s Cup Sunday – Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 10)

It’s Jeju Govenor’s Cup day at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday and a full field of sixteen fillies and mares will line up for one of the final Korea Group races of the year over 1400M. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:10.

Lead Money 2018 Jeju Governor's KRA

Lead Money held off Sinui Myeogryeong in a battle of the greys in last year’s Jeju Governor’s Cup. She returns to defend her title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Last year’s Jeju winner Lead Money returns to defend her title as one of the few established class 1 contenders in the race and will accordingly be among the favourites. However, she will face stiff competition from the lightly raced Dia Road as well as other more established runners such as Hello Venus and Doctor Thunder. See below for race-by-race for Seoul with Busan Selections at the bottom:

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens to kick things off with five of the ten having raced before. Of those five, (4) GEOMPO has looked the most promising with a 4th and a 3rd from two starts so far, the latter at this distance. He’s drawn well to lead and can win. None of the others have impressed to any extent so it’s to the first-timers we need to look for the other chances. Possible favourite is (8) WISH ME. She ran out a very good trial winner last month, running on very well and should go well first up. (9) JEONJEONGSAGUEM also won her trial while (1) A TO Z and (3) CHAMILHO hinted at ability too.

Selections (4) Geompo (8) Wish Me (9) Jeonjeongsaguem (1) A To Z
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 4, 6, 9

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Very weak maiden. (4) BOMNALUI GIEOK hasn’t shown much in the way of speed – he’s not alone in that regard in this race – but he seems a reasonable type who has run on well in better company than this and if he can put himself in a handy position may be able to pass the rest in the closing stages here. (1) J M FIGHTER looked promising on debut and while he has had a couple of setbacks, looks like he has some ability. (3) J. S. POWER too has run reasonably well in better company and can go close. The only one of the field to have a runner-up finish to their name so far is (5) BEST GOLD. That came at this distance and she comes in following a 4th place last start. That’s enough to put her in the frame today.

Selections (4) Bomnalui Gieok (5) Best Gold (1) J M Fighter (3) J.S. Power
Next Best 9, 7
Fast Start 2, 3, 8, 9

Race 3: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(2) DONGBANG JIJON comes in off a 3rd place in a similar race to this and having shown proficiency at the distance is the slight pick to finally break his maiden at the thirteenth time of asking. (6) DAECHEON ACE and (10) MAENGJU have both beaten Dongbang Jijon in the past and both come in off reasonably recent outings. (1) CORRE MI CABALLO debuted all the way back in September of 2018 and actually ran rather well. He’s not been seen since but returned to training this autumn and looked very well when 2nd in an October trial, which brings him straight into contention first-up. (4) MY SISTER NINA had a poor day at the office last start but is better than that and can be given another chance here.

Selections (2) Dongbang Jijon (1) Corre Mi Caballo (6) Daecheon Ace (4) My Sister Nina
Next Best 10, 8
Fast Start 4, 8, 10

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) EAGLE EYE ran a solid 4th place over 1000M at the end of September and having previously run 2nd and 3rd at this distance, looks to be the favourite to take the honours here. The others are going to need to step up. (7) SAEROUN BOBAE had to be scratched on the way to the start last week after her jockey aggravated a back injury. The same jockey returns today and so long as they make it to the gate this time, she will have a chance. (3) MACH NEDAN and (4) BAEK HAK have hardly impressed so far but both are likely to be on the early speed and that could be enough to get them close at the end. (10) FAMILY HOPE the best of a limited rest.

Selections (2) Eagle Eye (7) Saeroun Bobae (10) Family Hope (3) Mach Nedan
Next Best 4, 6
Fast Start 2, 3, 4

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

(6) DYNAMIC PUNCH led all the way to record his maiden win by a length over this distance on October 12th. Although that wasn’t the strongest of races, he and the rest of the place-getters were a full ten lengths clear of the remainder of the field and he looks to have enough development in him to be favoured here. (3) SUNSHINE TEUKGEUP and (5) YEONGGWANGUI BEAT are similarly up in class following maiden victories on their respective last starts and both should be competitive at this level too. (9) GEUMBIT YEOLJEONG comes in off a string of near misses and should be close at hand again while (2) PRIME QUEEN too ran a really good 3rd place at class and distance last start and looks a danger.

Selections (6) Dynamic Punch (9) Geumbit Yeoljeong (2) Prime Queen (3) Sunshine Teukgeup
Next Best 5, 1
Fast Start 3, 6, 9, 12

Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) ELITE LADY got her maiden win at the third time of asking at the end of September, scoring by four lengths over 1000M, having previously run 4th in a valuable race in August. She is up in class and in distance here but should be able to overcome both of those things and can win again. (9) P.K. HILL is similarly up in class following a maiden win last time, also at 1000M and is set to be competitive too, likely joining Elite Lady on the early speed. (8) CHEONEUN JJANG was beaten a nose on her first try at this class in (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 9)

There are 12 Saturday races in Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Blue Chipper’s Breeders’ Cup exploits noted at the Seoul Racecourse entrance

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens to begin with and five of the twelve have raced before. Among those five is the hot favourite, (2) NUNBUSIN HANSEN. She ran 2nd on debut in a decent time on September 29th and a similar performance should see her home on top today. Of the others with previous racing experience, (11) COMPLETE MAGIC ran an improved 5th on her second start in October and can continue to make progress here. Among the first-timers, (4) MONEY SIJANG was a useful trial winner two weeks ago and looks to be the pick. (10) THUNDER SONIA ran 2nd in the same heat and also looks to have some ability. (3) ONE AND ONLY the pick of the rest.

Selections (2) Nunbusin Hansen (4) Money Sijang (3) One And Only (10) Thunder Sonia
Next Best 11, 5
Fast Start 2, 4, 5, 9

Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

More juvenile maidens, this time with four of them having raced before. (8) CHUNSAN was only beaten a nose into 2nd in a tight three-way finish on debut on October 6th. It was a fast time and she showed enough to warrant being favourite here. (2) CHEONSA PARK was 6th in the same race, an improvement from his first effort and can go better again today. (10) AMIGO RARO missed the kick slightly on his latest appearance three weeks ago but ran on pleasingly enough and can continue his development here while (3) POWER YACHT did nothing wrong on debut and is another who can aim for a place. Of the first timers, (4) CLEAN UP BELLA is the clear pick having run 3rd in a fast trial all the way back in August. It’s taken him a while to get to the track but should go well first-up.

Selections (8) Chunsan (4) Clean Up Bella (10) Amigo Raro (2) Cheonsa Park
Next Best 3, 7
Fast Start 1, 2, 8, 10

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Only nine runners but a wide-open race. It’s tempting to give (2) PUNCH POWER another chance. Having put in encouraging runs on his first two starts, he never really got going over 1000M last time out two weeks ago and finished back in the pack. Back up in trip today, he may be better. Since returning from seven months off in September, (1) HIT THE PACE has run 4th and 3rd, the latest of which was at this trip. This is a tougher assignment, but he may be considered. (3) GOLD FIELD too swims in slightly choppier waters here but also looks to be on the improve. (7) WIN BLADE came close to making all at length odds last start, only to be caught late on. That was his first try at this distance and a big improvement, so he has to be respected here. (8) RESKA the best of the rest.

Selections (2) Punch Power (7) Win Blade (1) Hit The Pace (3) Gold Field
Next Best 8, 6
Fast Start 1, 3, 7

Race 4: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Valuable juvenile maiden for imported horses with only two of the eleven having raced before. One of those two is (10) BLUE MACARON, who ran 4th on debut on October 6th, just under three-lengths behind the winner. He should have come on for that run and is among the leading contenders here. Both (6) MARK STORY and (7) MOONHAK MISCHIEF won their respective trials last month and both come straight into contention. The latter probably looks best place to make an immediate impact. Quicker than both of those in his trial was (1) FULL BOOSTER, who finished ahead of three of his rivals here – including Blue Macaron – in his heat back in September, and he too is likely to be well backed first up. (4) NANEUN STAR is another who posted a fast qualifying time – be sure to watch the market for additional clues.

Selections (10) Blue Macaron (7) Moonhak Mischief (1) Full Booster (6) Mark Story
Next Best 4, 2
Fast Start 2, 7, 8, 10

Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Back to juvenile maidens here and (10) SIMPLE STYLE ran 6th on debut in a decent time behind some promising looking horses. His manners weren’t great but if he sorts those, he won’t need to have come on too much to be right in this. (4) HEUNGHAENG JILJU ran 3rd on debut over 1000M last month, running through the line well and should appreciate the step up in trip today. (9) GOSOK PEDAL was a decent 4th on debut at long odds on October 5th, also at 1000M. He too steps up in trip with claims to go better. (5) SHINY QUEEN and solitary debut-maker (1) GO UP look best of the rest.

Selections (10) Simple Style (4) Heunghaeng Jilju (9) Gosok Pedal (1) Go Up
Next Best 5, 6
Fast Start 2, 8, 10

Race 6: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) DAE YONGWANG has been knocking at the door for some time and almost made his breakthrough last start, his first at this distance when he was only beaten a nose. In this small field he should be prominent from the start and can win. Also only beaten a nose on his first try at 1700M was (1) ACE SHINE. That was just two weeks ago and was his first start for trainer Tony Castenheira. He can go close again. (8) ANY SEON is another

(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 8)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 11 races from 11.30 to 18.00. Here are the previews:

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) TOUCH STAR MAN has a 4th and a 2nd from two starts so fire and while he was the beaten favourite last time but should make no mistake today. Seo Seung-un rides on what is his first mount back after a three-month suspension and it should be a winning one. There are a couple of dangers though. (4) VERRA DAY was a solid 2nd on debut at this distance on October 6th. He was beaten ten-lengths by a very good winner but showed enough to suggest a win of his own will come soon. (7) FASHION KEY also ran well for 4th on her debut and can improve here. (5) BEST HAPPY and (12) SPEED KINGDOM are others who can go well in what is a competitive race.

Selections (1) Touch Star Man (4) Verra Day (7) Fashion Key (5) Best Happy
Next Best 12, 11
Fast Start 1, 2, 5, 11

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Small field and it’s hard to look past (5) YEONGSEONG BRAVO. An improved 2nd in decent company on his latest start on October 11th, he should have too much for this lot. (8) BEAUTIFUL KOREA and (3) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL came home 4th and 5th respectively in that same race and while they have a few lengths to make up, they look to be the most credible dangers here. (6) MAX POWER comes in having run a career best 3rd last start and can aim to match it here.

Selections (5) Yeongseong Bravo (3) Seungriui Bulgil (6) Max Power (8) Beautiful Korea
Next Best 1, 2
Fast Start 1, 2, 5

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Tricky race. (8) TWO TWO DAY has run twice over 1000M and twice over a mile and has been steadily showing improvement. They split the difference with the distance today and he is likely to be ridden at the front and can win. Joining him on the early pace should be main danger (1) ECHO WHITE. She’s run 5th in both outings to date and will be expected to improve today. (9) PERFECT ANGEL ran well for 3rd on her latest start just two weeks ago and returns quickly with solid claims to at least match that today. (5) TIZ LINE and (6) YEOKJEONUI TAEYANG best of the rest.

Selections (8) Two Two Day (1) Echo White (9) Perfect Angel (5) Tiz Line
Next Best 6, 3
Fast Start 1, 8

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Another competitive race. (9) DAEMANGUI GIL ran 3rd in the Gold Circle Trophy at the end of September and while he disappointed when favourite on his return over 1000M three weeks ago, looks worthy of another chance here. He’ll likely be on pace from the start and can go all the way. (3) SEOBU GENTLEMAN comes in having run 2nd and 3rd in his latest two and should be close by again. (6) KING DOMBO too was an improved 2nd on his latest over a mile and looks in with a shout of the places again. (5) GOLDEN MANE PARIS and (7) JILJU YEOHAENG are others in the placing hunt.

Selections (9) Daemangui Gil (3) Seobu Gentleman (6) King Dombo (5) Golden Mane Paris
Next Best 7, 1
Fast Start 3, 9

Race 5: Class 4 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

It took (1) ROYAL SOLDIER a couple of goes to figure things out but he has shot rapidly up in class having won his latest two in fine fashion. Both were at this distance and both were in fast times and a similar performance here should see him home on top again. (3) RAPTOR CORE ran 3rd in a fast time last start and while she was well beaten by a good winner, should go close here. At the other end of the experience scale, (4) RACHEL comes in following some consistent recent performances and should go close again. (5) EURO SHINHWA and (6) YEONGGWANGUICHEON are others in the hunt.

Selections (1) Royal Soldier (3) Raptor Core (4) Rachel (5) Euro Shinhwa
Next Best 6
Fast Start 1, 3, 6

Race 6: Class 4 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) BANJIUI YOJEONG wan four times between March and June, winning two of them and returns here for the first time in five months. She absolutely blitzed a trial in the middle of October and if she brings that form to the races, she’ll be very hard to beat. (7) HAPPY YEOGEOL is up in class having won well over this distance four weeks ago, taking her record to two wins from three and she is the main danger here, most likely joining the favourite on the early pace. (6) SO MUCH GO led for much of his debut appearance a month ago, weakening a little late on and should have come on for that run. (1) B.K. SOUND and (4) JEONSAUI JILJU are both better than their respective latest outings suggest.

Selections (3) Banjiui Yojeong (7) Happy Yeogeol (6) So Much Go (4) Jeonsaui Jilju
Next Best 1, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 6, 7

Race 7: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(5) ONE CHANCE has been consistent across eight starts so far and comes in following a strong 2nd place at this distance last time. She can settle just behind the early pace here and could well come out on top. (8) TRIPLE SILVER and (9) TOHAM STAR are both up in class having come home 1st and 2nd when they raced each other at this distance on October 11th. There was just a neck between them that day and both should be competitive at this level. The experienced (3) YEONGGWANGUIFACTOR had a poor day at the office over a mile last time but can be better dropped in trip today. (11) JOEUN HAE looks best of the rest.

Selections (5) One Chance (9) Toham Star (8) Triple Silver (3) Yeonggwanguifactor
Next Best 11, 1
Fast Start 6, 7, 9, 11

Race 8: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(1) KAHEKILI raced three times between April and June, winning one and running 2nd and 3rd in the other two. She hasn’t raced since but looked well when a close at hand 2nd in an October trial and she’ll be the one to beat here. (6) DAEJI JARANG remains a maiden but is up in class having run a good 2nd at this distance lats start and should be competitive at this level. (2) HAPPY AGAIN struggled last start over 1300M but should be better dropped in trip today. (3) LEMON EYE and (7) CHEONGPUNG NANHYANG are others who can find the places.

Selections (1) Kahekili (6) Daeji Jarang (2) Happy Again (3) Lemon Eye
Next Best 7, 4
Fast Start 1, 2, 8

Race 9: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) GRAND JILJU and (1) LEGACY were 1st and 2nd when they raced each other on a wet track at class and distance on October 18th. The pair of them look set to be the leading contenders here with Legacy slightly favoured to come out on top this time. (10) CENTUM BEONGAE recorded his maiden win at the third time of asking last month and is accordingly up in class today but with solid claims to be competitive at this level. He’ll be on pace from the start. (4) HIDDEN BOY and (9) MAJOR PUNCH are others who can go close.

Selections (1) Legacy (8) Grand Jilju (10) Centum Beongae (4) Hidden Boy
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 2, 4, 8, 10

Race 10: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(8) REVERSE SWEEP returned from almost eight months off to run a good 2nd at class and distance on October 11th. He should have come on for that run and will be the one they need to beat today. (1) ECHO SUN is rapidly up in class having won his latest two in fine style, most recently at this distance, and he’ll be competitive today. (2) SANGSEUNG POWER has run 4th and 5th in two starts at this class following a good win back in August and he too looks nicely in here. (7) AMAZON YEOGEOL hasn’t quite lived up to her early promise but could improve today while (9) WONDERFUL COUNTRY is another who will be expected to go close.

Selections (8) Reverse Sweep (2) Sangseung Power (9) Wonderful Country (1) Echo Sun
Next Best 7, 10
Fast Start 1, 6, 9

Race 11: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(8) SEONGSAN SIMON come sin off back to back runner-up finishes, both at 1400M and both times in similar strength company to today. He led last time before getting headed late on and back down in trip today can go one better. (1) FASHION OF MARINE was beaten by Seongsan Simon two starts back but ran a good 2nd behind the talented Seobu Cat a month ago and should be in the hunt here. (3) DAEJI CHAMP is another who has a recent reverse to Seongsan Simon but can get closer today. (6) CHEONNYEONUI BADA returns for the first time since March and looked good in trials.

Selections (8) Seongsan Simon (1) Fashion Of Marine (6) Cheonnyeonui Bada (3) Daeji Champ
Next Best 7, 2
Fast Start 1, 3, 4

President’s Cup 2019: Full Preview / Seoul & Busan Sunday Race-By-Race (November 3)

This decade there have only been four different President’s Cup winners. From 2010 to 2012, the great Dangdae Bulpae monopolised the race. Indie Band and Gyeongbudaero then each took a turn in the winner’s circle before Triple Nine won the first of what would be four straight successes in 2015.

There will be a new name on the trophy this year. Now aged seven, Triple Nine is back in training but he hasn’t made the starting gate and instead sixteen horses will vie to succeed him in winning the President’s Cup (KOR G1-2000M), the nation’s richest age-open race for Korean-bred horses at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:10. Race-by-race notes for Seoul below followed by Busan selections.

Simjangui Godong KRA

Simjangui Godong (Pic: KRA)

It’s a deep field. The last two Korean Derby winners, Ecton Blade and Wonderful Fly, are present but both will be outsiders in a bunch headed by Simjangui Godong. The three-year-old ran 2nd in the Derby and 6th in the Minister’s Cup but has since embarked on a purple patch of three wins including the Ilgan Sports and HRI Trophies.

Jockey Moon Se Young had more than one option but ultimately plumped for Simjangui Godong. However, a heavy fall on Saturday that landed him in hospital, seems likely to rule him out of the mount and a chance of winning one of the few elite races still to elude him.

Speaking after Thursday’s barrier draw, Moon had been bullish about Simjangui Godong’s chances and excited to ride a horse on whose sire, Jigeum I Sungan, he finished 3rd in the race in 2013. “I rode his sire in this race. We didn’t win it, but he was a great horse and I would love to win on his son. He’s a good horse, so it’s down to me. He’s so good that we can overcome even one mistake – obviously if we make more, it will be difficult”.

In gate 5, Simjangui Godong also has the plum draw. “In the President’s Cup, it’s so hard to win if you’re not within the inside 10. Gate 5 is perfect”, said Moon. Should Moon not make the race, a replacement rider has yet to be confirmed.

New Legend hasn’t quite lived up to his early promise. A Korea bred, he spent the early part of his career in the United States, even winning at Arlington Park, and for his first few outings back home looked unstoppable. The he hit the elite level and things haven’t been so easy with his latest being a disappointing run in the Keeneland Korea Cup (KOR G1).

This time though, New Legend faces only domestically-bred rivals and Kim Uk, assistant trainer to Kim Young-kwan, believes better is to come. “There is a myth that Menifee’s progeny aren’t good around 2000M or further, but we know that’s not true after Gyeongbudaero and Power Blade (both Grand Prix Stakes winner at 2300M). But we heard it again after New Legend was beaten (in May’s YTN Cup). We think he’s ready. After the Korea Cup he had a bit of a rest then we brought him back and started training him early with this in mind. We put him through a trial, and he went really well, and we think he is a chance here.”

Another serious chance is New Legend’s stablemate Captain Force. The four-year-old, by Peace Rules, is a winner of nine from twenty so far, but last raced in June. That doesn’t concern jockey Lee Hyo-sik. “He has been out a while and we initially wanted him to run once before this race, but we trialled him and felt he wasn’t ready so went back to training. We trialled him again at the beginning of October and were really happy with him so decided to come straight here. He did his fast work on Thursday and he was excellent. He’s exactly where we want him to be.”

Busan’s strong challenge is fortified by Final Energy. The Testa Matta gelding ran 5th behind Blue Chipper in the Keeneland Korea Sprint (KOR G1) in September but showed his staying credentials when beating fellow contender here Toham Ace in a strong race over 1800M five weeks ago.

Jockey Lim Sung-sil won this race on Indie Band in 2013 and likes what he sees in Final Energy. “It’s his first time around 2000M so we’ve been working on his stamina. He’s got good gate speed so I wasn’t worried about the draw although getting gate 7 is great, we just have to make sure he sees out the whole race. If he does that then he’s right in there. He travelled well, has eaten well and he likes it at Seoul – the stable here is bigger!”

There are plenty of other contenders too. Among the three-year-olds, Minister’s Cup winner Rock Choice takes his chance while top filly Clear Geom will also be in the gate. Among older contenders, the prolific winner Dokdo Jigi, a winner of eight from eleven lifetime starts, returns to action for the first time in five months and while he was given an easy time in a barrier trial last week, has plenty of quality about him. As for foreign interest, Thomas Gillespie saddles Toham Ace while Richard Oliver rides Ecton Blade and Ioannis Poullis gets the big leg-up on New Legend.

Seoul Comments

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(5) GEOSEN JILU comes in having run 2nd and 3rd in two starts so far, both at 1000M and both times running on well. She steps up in trip for the first time today and could well be the one to beat. (4) DAESEUNG QUEEN ran well for 2nd on debut on October 5th. She too steps up in trip for the first time and looks to be a danger. (7) ILBO DEUNGCHEON does have experience of this distance having run 4th in what was quite a strong race last start and must be considered for improvement. (2) CHOGANGGUK and (8) BAEKDUSAN CHEONJI look to be the best of the rest.

Selections (5) Geoseon Jilju (4) Daeseung Queen (7) Ilbo Deungcheon (8) Baekdusan Cheonji
Next Best 2, 6
Fast Start 5, 6, 7

Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Competitive – if not especially strong – maiden. (6) SHARK JJANG and (4) EAST BAN came home 5th and 6th respectively when they raced each other on September 28th. That was just East Ban’s second start and e should have improvement in him. He’s drawn better today to get to the lead and can win. (2) MUNHAKUI JEONSA already holds a win over 1200M and while he disappointed last start can be given another chance today back at the minimum. (9) POP STREET comes in off a very narrow defeat last time out over 1700M and is interesting dropped all the way back to 1000M today. (5) GOLDEN SERVICE (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 2)

There are 12 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10.45 to 18.00. Here are the previews:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

We begin with juvenile maidens with five of the twelve having raced before. Of those five, (7) SHINY FIRE and (8) GYORYONGDEUKSU will be expected to push on from competent debuts and go close here. The favourite will be a first-time starter though. (4) BAEKSAN THUNDER ran out a ten-length winner of a trial on October 11th making all in a facile manner in a faster time than any of the experienced ones here managed on their racing debuts. If he brings that to the track today, he’ll not be beaten. Of the other newcomers, (6) HURRICANE SOCKS and (9) EAST ONE look to have the most promise at this stage.

Selections (4) Baeksan Thunder (8) Gyoryongdeuksu (7) Shiny Fire (6) Hurricane Socks
Next Best 9, 3
Fast Start 4, 7, 8, 12

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens this time with just three having previous experience. None of them have really caught the eye although the pair who have raced twice, (1) WONDERFUL ORANGE and (8) LUCKY MYEONGHO will be expected to improve here. That leaves us once more with first-timers. There were three standouts in trials. (11) RIDE LUCKY came from off the pace to record a strong 2nd in a good time. His stable has been in solid form of late and he is the likely favourite. The only trial winner among them is (10) USEUNG GAK, who made all to take his heat by a neck. It wasn’t particularly fast, but Moon Se Young is aboard, and he will attract plenty of support. (2) CUPID HONEY recorded the fastest trial time of any of them when 5th in a good heat last month.

Selections (11) Ride Lucky (10) Useung Gak (2) Cupid Honey (1) Wonderful Orange
Next Best 8, 6
Fast Start 1, 3, 8, 10

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(4) JOEUN GAMUN ran an improved 3rd on what was his second career start on September 21st. He’s had six weeks off since and is nicely drawn to get to the lead here with solid claims of coming out on top this time. (1) DANGCAHN BARAM has run in two solid performances so far, last time finishing 5th in what was arguably a better race than this. She too should be on pace from the start and can go close. (9) STUNNING AGAIN has been up and down across eight starts so far but should be beating plenty of these. (6) DALRINEUN BITKKAL and (11) PEACE OF RULES look best of the rest.

Selections (4) Joeun Gamun (1) Dangchan Baram (9) Stunning Again (11) Peace Of Rules
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 1, 4, 9, 11

Race 4: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) CAPTAIN BEST comes in having run 2nd and 3rd from his latest two and needs only a top three finish to be bumped up in class. Last start he hung inwards to the extent he gave his jockey great difficulty riding him out and was accordingly sent back to trial. He came through that and if he behaves himself today, he should win. Main danger looks to be (3) JANGSU NABOM. After an indifferent debut, he’s recorded a 2nd and a 3rd, both at this distance and should be challenging Captain Best for the early lead. (10) P.K. DOLPUNG was well back in a good race last time but proved himself capable of running a decent time and can improve today. (4) SPECIAL CHAMP and first-timer (9) KING KANMOREU are others who can go close.

Selections (2) Captain Best (3) Jangsu Nabom (10) P.K. Dolpung (4) Special Champ
Next Best 9, 11
Fast Start 2, 3, 10

Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(1) NOLBU CHEONHA was an improved 3rd on his second career start on October 6th. He perhaps left himself a bit too much to do from a wide draw that day, but this time has the inside and can settle just behind the early speed and if he quickens the same way again, can win. (5) SAMSEONG VIVA also improved on his second start and should go even better stepped up in trip today. He’s the main danger although (7) PENUMBRA already has a 2nd place to his name at this distance and should go close again too. (2) SAEROUN BOBAE and (4) JACKS KHAN are others who can challenge for at least places.

Selections (1) Nolbu Cheonha (5) Samseong Viva (7) Penumbra (2) Saeroun Bobae
Next Best 4, 9
Fast Start 2, 3, 9

Race 6: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Good race this. (2) GALLOP CURLIN has run 2nd and 3rd in his latest two, both over this distance and a win seems likely sooner rather than later. He’ll go right to the front here and it could be today. (1) MIGHTY WING ran a good 2nd over 1700M last time out and dropping back in trip today looks to be the main danger, also from the front. (5) DAEGUN ILGAL has been hovering around the periphery of the places and also drops back from 1700M and into contention. (9) BEST EVER and (10) ACE CHAN are others who can be competitive in this company.

Selections (2) Gallop Curlin (1) Mighty Wing (5) Daegun Ilgal (10) Ace Chan
Next Best 9, 8
Fast Start 1, 2, 4

Race 7: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(5) STUNNING HANSEN should have too much here. A very good winner in a fast time over this distance on debut last month, she is up in class today but really should be repeating. (6) YULONG FLYING got his maiden win in impressive fashion at the start of September before running a solid 2nd on his first try at this class. He’ll join the favourite in challenging for the early lead and can go close. (4) SENTOSA is a maiden but rarely misses by much and should be around the places again. (10) BLUE DAEJAYEON and (11) LOOKING GOOD – the latter racing for the first time in six months but was looking good in an October trial – are others to consider.

Selections (5) Stunning Hansen (6) Yulong Flying (4) Sentosa (11) Looking Good
Next Best 10, 7
Fast Start 5, 6, 10, 11

Race 8: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(3) BLADE STORM returned from six months off to get his maiden win first-up in September. He followed that up by running 3rd on his first try at this class on October 5th. Both those races were over 1000M, but he looks ready to tackle the increased distance and is the one to beat here. (12) MASEONG JILJU steps up in class having registered his maiden win at the fourth time of asking in October. It was at this distance and he made all and has very chance of being competitive at this level. (9) WONDERFUL RUBY only managed 7th last start but the margins were narrow, and she was first-up after four months. She should improve today. (2) ROYAL GHOST and (11) IL MARE are others in the placing hunt.

Selections (3) Blade Storm (12) Maseong Jilju (9) Wonderful Ruby (11) Il Mare
Next Best 2, 7
Fast Start 3, 9, 12

Race 9: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(1) BUCKETFUL GOLD is a winner of one form eight so far but comes in having been runner-up in each of his latest three outings, including the most recent at class and distance. From the inside gate he should be prominent early and can go one better. It took (4) BACK SPIN five attempts to make her breakthrough but she clearly enjoyed winning as she immediately followed up with another. That’s brought her rapidly up in class and while this is obviously tougher, she should be competitive again. (7) CHODONG BOBAE won three in a row between April and July and has continued her solid form with a pair of 3rd place finishes. 3rd would be a minimum requirement today. (3) HANSEN BAROWS and (11) RAON PATRICK are others who can compete for places.

Selections (1) Bucketful Gold (7) Chodong Bobae (4) Back Spin (3) Hansen Barows
Next Best 11, 6
Fast Start 1, 4, 7, 8

Race 10: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(5) DAEBAK HAENGJIN beat a couple of these on her way to 2nd place at class and distance on September 22nd. She remains a maiden after ten attempts but that was her fifth runner-up finish. She has a chance here and should be on pace but may have to settle for 2nd again. That’s because (3) KILIUI JEWANG is also present. He drops back in trip following spins around 1700M and 1600M. This should suit better, and he could well lead gate to wire. (12) CHOIN BOLT won three of his first four and while he may well have found his level now, he should be very competitive here. (2) JANGSAN BEARS and (7) K.N ACE are others with claims on at least the places.

Selections (3) Kiliui Jewang (5) Daebak Hanegjjin (12) Choin Bolt (7) K.N Ace
Next Best 2, 4
Fast Start 3, 9, 10, 12

Race 11: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(12) PRIMO ran 3rd in a good race at class and distance on September 22nd. He has plenty of solid results at this level and while drawn wide, he doesn’t need to lead, and could well come home on top here. (6) MONEY DAERYUK drops back in trip after a good 2nd over 1400M at the end of September. She came from well off the pace today and will look to do similar here and even at the shorter distance is capable. (1) BACK TO BACK wilted in that same race behind Money Daeryuk last time but is better than that and back in trip today should be better. (3) GEUMA THUNDER and (9) GLOBAL NEWS, the latter returning for the first time since March, are others in the hunt.

Selections (12) Primo (6) Money Daeryuk (1) Back To Back (9) Global News
Next Best 3, 7
Fast Start 3, 4, 7, 9

Race 12: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(1) SUPER FLUID and (11) CHEUNGDAM GENIE came home 1st and 2nd with just a head between them when they raced each other over class and distance on September 22nd. They are both up in the weights today although the raise is more severe on Super Fluid and that may well be enough for that form to be reversed today. (7) JJANG KONG drops back in trip following a decent 4th over a mile on October 6th and should be in the hunt to improve here. (4) RAPIDOCUS and (6) SIN DOLGYEOK are others with placing claims.

Selections (11) Cheungdam Genie (1) Super Fluid (7) Jjang Kkong (4) Rapidocus
Next Best 6, 2
Fast Start 2, 11