Author: gyongmaman

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 10)

International weekend gets underway at Seoul Racecourse on Saturday and while the Cup and Sprint are tomorrow, there’s still plenty going on. There are four exchange “Trophy races” with the Macau Jockey Club, Singapore Turf Club, Hong Kong Jockey Club and Horse Racing Ireland as well as the official launch of the new 127 metre-long screen. In total there are 13 races from 14:00 to 21:00. English racecards here, brief notes on races 1-10 below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 14:00 

Nine of the twelve debut here and trial “winner” (7) RAON QUANTUM is set to be the one to beat. He finished strongly in his trial, beating a couple who also debut here and should go well under the champion jockey. Among other debut makers, (6) MY VISION and (10) USEUNGUI CHUEOK caught the eye in trials, however the main danger is likely to be one of those with experience. (3) YEOKDAE CHOESANG was 3rd on debut at the end of July and can have come on for that.

Selections (7) Raon Quantum (3) Yeokdae Choesang (6) My Vision (10) Useungui Chueok
Next Best 1, 8, 11, 4
Outsiders 2, 5, 9, 12
Fast Starters 6, 8, 9

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 

Big field and despite a trainer/jockey combination that isn’t in form (3) RECONQUISTA has to be slight favourite here. He beat three of these when running 2nd a month ago at this distance and can go one better today. (11) CALL ME JK comes in following a career best 2nd the same day and can come close once more as can (14) GANGJASEUNG, who improved under an apprentice jockey last time out and has the same rider returning today. Brian Dean’s (2) CALEDONIA can also improve on his debut run behind Reconquista while (1) WON AGAIN – yet to win – is the other one to consider.

Selections (3) Reconquista (2) Caledonia (11) Call Me JK (14) Gangjaseung
Next Best 1, 8, 5, 10
Outsiders 4, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13
Fast Starters 5

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:30 

Another full field and this race is part of a brief challenge for some of the jockeys in town for Sunday’s international races. The Koreans have got the best of the draw with (6) DARK AMBER likely to be disputing favourite status with (10) MONDAY MONEY. Both look ready to win. (9) MENI VET has come close on each of her last four outings and should do so again while among the foreign riders, Abderahim Faddoul has perhaps the best draw with (7) YESANGBAEK SEUNG. Also in with a shout is (5) IBAEGJEOM.

Selections (6) Dark Amber (10) Monday Money (9) Menu Vet (7) Yesangbaek Seung
Next Best 5, 4, 14, 8, 3, 13
Outsiders 1, 2, 11, 12
Fast Starters 7, 9, 10, 12

Race 4: Class 4 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:15 

The first of the trophy races so a big prize on offer here. (4) GWANGYANG DOLPUNG Is favourite to land it having been a close 2nd his first try at class and distance last month. He’ll settle handy and could have too much late on. (7) SUBAEKHYANG and (2) DIXIE PLOIT come in having run 2nd and 3rd respectively at this distance on August 20th and will be competitive again while (5) RAON NARA and (8) DEVIL MAN are both up in class and nicely in here.

Selections (4) GWangyang Dolpung (2) Dixie Ploit (7) Subaekhyang (5) Raon Nara
Next Best  
Outsiders  
Fast Starters  

Race 5: Class Open – The Singapore Turf Club Trophy / 1400M / KRW 150 Million / 16:45

Some of the visiting jockeys return here for this filly-only trophy race although again it’s a local who has the best of the draw with Kim Yong Geun pulling out (9) RAON AMOS. The filly has won her last four with varying degrees of ease and while she faces a stiffer test here, she should be on speed early and can win again. (7) BLAZING STAR gives Tadgh O’Shea an opportunity to show what he can do; the 3-year-old won three in a row between April and June and should also be on speed here. (4) OUR CAT, (5) REWARD HIGH and (8) JEWELRY PARK look best of the rest in a nicely competitive race.

Selections (9) Raon Amos (7) Blazing Star (8) Jewelry Park (5) Reward High
Next Best 4, 2
Outsiders 1, 3, 6
Fast Starters 4, 7, 9

Race 6: Class Open Allowance / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 200 Million / 17:15 

The inaugural Hong Kong Jockey Club Trophy is for 2-year-olds who passed through local sales and there’s a huge prize on offer. (10) ROCKET QUEEN didn’t impress on debut last month but went back to trail just last week and absolutely flew through and Brian Dean’s filly comes into contention as a result. (3) CLEAN UP SKY and (9) LEAD MONEY were perhaps the most impressive on their debuts with (2) PHILLANIKE and (8) NEW WHY FI also showing potential for improvement.

Selections (10) Rocket Queen (3) Clean Up Sky (9) Lead Money (2) Phillanike
Next Best 8, 11, 1, 5, 12
Outsiders 4, 6, 7
Fast Starters 3, 5, 9, 10

Race 7: Class Open / 2000M / Weight for Age / KRW 150 Million / 17:55 

(5) SUN STRONG and (1) GASOKBULPAE ran 1st and 2nd over this distance in the Sports Chosun Cup in June. While Sun Strong struggled on reappreance at class 1 in July and Gasokbulpae han’t raced since, both look strong here. Gasokbulpae will try to lead from gate to wire. (2) CHEONJI STORM was a good 2nd in the Ilgan Sports Cup at the end of July and should be competitive on his first try at this distance while (3) ROYAL VICTORY and (7) HOWIMUSA look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Gasokbulpae (5) Sun Strong (2) Cheonji Storm (7) Howimusa
Next Best 6, 3, 4
Fast Starters 1

Race 8: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:35 

Back to the big fields. (10) WANJEON MULGYEOL provided trainer Kim Dong Chul with his first ever winner last month and it is possible he could provide him with his 2nd here. It won’t be easy though. (13) HAPPIEST was beaten by Wanjeon Mulgyeol last time but should get closer today while (2) CUPID PARK and (4) GEUMBIT SONATA can both improve on slightly disappointing outings last time while (12) CHOWON BOLT can build on a 3rd and a 2nd in his last two starts. (6) GWACHEON WONDER is up in class following a 2nd place over this distance and while he is yet to win in ten attempts, he looks nicely in here.

Selections (6) Gwacheon Wonder (10) Wanjeon Mulgyeol (12) Chowon Bolt (2) Cupid Park
Next Best 13, 4, 1, 8, 5
Outsiders 3, 7, 9, 11
Fast Starters  

Race 9: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 19:00 

(10) SILLA HWARANG is up in class following his maiden win on his second start and he is favoured to keep improving her. He should come from just behind an early pace that could be set by (11) PINK STAR, who has just the one win in 25 races but has been coming close recently. (2) DRAGON SPEED comes in following an improved 3rd in July and then ten weeks off and can go well while (3) HWANHUIUISUNGAN and (8) HWANSANGUI DOYAK look best of the rest.

Selections (10) Silla Hwarang (11) Pink Star (2) Dragon Speed (3) Hwanhuiuisungan
Next Best 8, 7, 1
Outsiders 4, 5, 6, 9
Fast Starters 5, 6, 11

Race 10: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 19:25 

Two standouts here with (3) VIVA TRINITY a class and distance winner on August 20th. He carries more weight today but can follow up. (6) SEONGBULOREUM’s recent form is better than 6th and 5th from her last two suggest – both were tight and with more luck she could have got closer coming from off the pace. (7) PRO MATEUS is inconsistent but can improve here while (2) SHINE CLOVER and (12) INDIE RUNNER are others to take into account.

Selections (3) Viva Trinity (6) Seongbuloreum (12) Indie Runner (7) Pro Mateus
Next Best 2, 10, 5, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 9, 11, 13, 14
Fast Starters

Korea Cup & Sprint Countdown: Numbers Drawn

The barrier draws for Sunday’s Keeneland Korea Cup and Sprint took place at a downtown Seoul hotel this morning. Each race features seven overseas-trained horses up against nine Korean-trained. We’ll have a full final preview of both races up on Saturday. For now, here are the fields (all pictures by Ross Holburt for KRA):

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The Sprint will be simulcast live by the Hong Kong Jockey Club during Sunday afternoon’s Sha Tin meeting and Super Jockey, one of the favourites for the race, drew gate number 2.

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Owner Tony Lau draws Super Jockey’s number (Pic: Ross Holburt for KRA)

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Kim Yong Geun is less than amused at pulling gate 16 out for Power Blade in the Cup

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Sprint connections

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Cup connections

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Team GB! (& Australia)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 9)

The barrier draws for Sunday’s inaugural Keeneland Korea Cup & Sprint were held this morning in Seoul. Before we get to that though, we have plenty of regular action to take care of. The weekend’s racing starts in Busan on Friday where there are 11 races from 14:20 to 21:00. English racecards are here and notes on races 1-9 are below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 14:20    

Italian jockey Francisco Da Silva makes his Korean debut here and it could be a winning one on (3) BAEKDUBONG. The colt was a solid 2ndon debut in July and can go one better here. Main danger is (7) DAREUMBAKJIL, also 2nd on debut last month behind a decent winner. Debut-makers (6) TRIPLE KING looks next best while (5) EORIN YEOWANG can improve from his debut last month.

Selections (7) Dareumbakjil (3) Baekdubong (6) Triple King (5) Eorin Yeowang
Next Best 1, 2, 4
Fast Starters 1, 6

Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 14:45 

Only three of the eight have raced before and of those, (7) CHOEGANG DRIVER was an improved 6th on her second start behind some promising ones and can progress again here. Da Silva gets another opportunity on (4) SUMMIT DAY, 2nd in a trial last month and who along with (2) GOLDEN BULLET, looks the most promising of the debut-makers. The two others with racing experience, (3) EGSEU BAND and (8) QUEEN’S BULLET are next best.

Selections (4) Summit Day (7) Choegang Driver (2) Golden Bullet (3) Egseu Band
Next Best 8, 1
Outsiders 5, 6
Fast Starters 3, 4, 7

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:10 

With two 3rds from three outings to date, filly (1) AREUMDAUN OECHIM is strongly favoured to strike this time as the standout in a big but limited field. Bearing in mind the quality – or lack thereof – of the opposition, Peter Wolsley’s (6) COURAGIO, the only debut-maker, has to be well supported while (5) PYEONGDAEMYEONGMUN, with two 4ths from three starts, can also go well. Plenty of experience, if not necessarily talent, among the rest so (4) CHASEDAE and (10) AQUA QUEEN should be capable of competing for the money.

Selections (1) Areumdaun Oechim (6) Couragio (5) Pyeongdaemyeongmun (4) Chasedae
Next Best 10, 2, 9, 8, 12, 3
Outsiders 7, 11, 13, 14
Fast Starters 5, 13

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 

Another Peter Wolsley debut-maker. (4) YUSEONG FIRST, looks the one to beat here in this all-filly affair. She looked promising in trials and can get off to a winning start in less than intimidating company. (6) LADY LUCK should be scoring the best result of her career to date, coming in following a 3rd and a 4th in her last two starts. (1) BEST ECTON and (7) SWEET WHY, both under apprentice jockeys can also improve on what they’ve done before.

Selections (4) Yuseong First (6) Lady Luck (1) Best Ecton (7) Sweet Why
Next Best 3, 8
Outsiders 2, 5
Fast Starters 2, 4, 7

Race 5: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:40 

We’re finally done with the maidens and onto a competitive looking race. As we often do in these type of class 4 races, we’ll go for the experienced Korean breds over the imports. (1) YEONGTO DAEWANG is up in class   following her second win just two weeks ago. She looks a good sprinter and can make all here. Also a good looking sprinter is (9) V DIVA. She returned from four months off to triumph over this distance on August 7th and is too up in class here with solid claims. (8) HUIMANG QUEEN has finished no worse than 4th in eight runs to fate and should keep that record intact today. Among the imports, (5) BARAMUI HEUNJEOK can improve on the 6th he scored on debut while first-timer (11) PASSION D’OR looked promising in trials.

Selections (1) Yeongto Daewang (9) V Diva (8) Huimang Queen (11) Passion D’Or
Next Best 5, 4, 10, 3
Outsiders 2, 6, 7, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3, 4

Race 6: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:25 

Competitive race here and Bart Rice’s (7) FOCUS LINE just gets the verdict. Yet to win in four but looked ok first up at this level a month ago and can improve from just off the pace. (12) CHOEGANG ADVENTURE has a 2nd and a 3rd at this level and if he can get to the front from gate 12, could have strong claims while (2) JERAJIN, who didn’t find it easy in an all-filly race at this class three weeks ago can also improve today. (5) BAEDARI HAENGUN and (6) WONDERFULCHEONGHAE look best of the rest.

Selections (7) Focus Line (12) Choegang Adventure (2) Jerajin (5) Baedari Haengun
Next Best 6, 1, 14, 10, 8, 2
Outsiders 3, 4, 9, 11
Fast Starters 3, 10, 11, 12

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:05

(14) BRACHAH beat four of these when finishing 3rd over class and distance just two weeks ago and despite drawing the outside gate here is favoured to beat them once more and this time come home in front. It won’t be easy though. (3) CHEONGCHUN CHAMP is up in class following a pair of 2nd places at class 6 and looks to have scope for development while (2) MAKGANG JILJU has come close in each of her last four and can do so again. (4) GAMSEONG POKBAL is up in class following her maiden win at this distance. She has plenty to find but can be competitive while (8) OH MY CAPTAIN and (11) FIRST SUN are others to consider.

Selections (14) Brachah (3) Cheongchun Champ (2) Makgang Jilju (11) First Sun
Next Best 8, 4, 7, 6, 9
Outsiders 1, 5, 10, 12, 13
Fast Starters 8, 11, 14

Race 8: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:45 

Another really competitive race with (6) USEUNG CHOEGO marginally favoured to improve on 3rd place at class and distance on August 12th. Main danger is (9) GERMAN JEONCHA, 2nd on his first try at the distance three weeks ago and likely to set the pace here. He looks a potential talent at this and further distances. (7) THE STARS has only won once but is always dangerous; she beat (8) GO JJANG by a length last time out as the pair ran 3rd and 4th over a mile and both should be competitive again here. Up in class and distance, (2) HUIMANG PARADE may also be considered.

Selections (6) Useung Choego (9) German Jeoncha (2) Huimang Parade (7) The Stars
Next Best 8, 10, 3, 11
Outsiders 1, 4, 5
Fast Starters 9

Race 9: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 19:35 

Bart Rice’s (6) JANGGUNEUI HUYE comes in having won three from three since being a little overmatched in the Korean Oaks in June. She’s a talented sprinter and should have too much for this opposition. (8) V MAN, a Korean Derby also-ran, and (10) GIGA SPEED can go close but will have to find a little extra to compete with the favourite while (4) SINSEGYE SINHWA and (7) GANGJA DAERO also look in the running for the places.

Selections (6) Jangguneui Huye (8) V Man (10) Giga Speed (4) Sinsegye Sinhwa
Next Best 7, 11, 12, 3
Outsiders 1, 2, 5, 9
Fast Starters 5

All Systems Go For Korea Cup & Sprint

All fourteen overseas-trained horses who will participate in Sunday’s historic inaugural running of the Keeneland Korea Cup and Keeneland Korea Sprint have arrived at Seoul Racecourse.

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Hong Kong’s Super Jockey worked at Seoul Racecourse on Tuesday morning under assistant trainer Beverly Millard (Pic: Ross Holburt for KRA)

Following the withdrawals of Hong Kong pair Gun Pit and Rich Tapestry from the Cup and the Sprint respectively, there are a total of seven overseas-trained horses set to go in each race (Full list of entries here). The arrivals began last Friday with horses from Japan and Singapore and concluded on Sunday evening when France-trained Famous Mark was the last to take up residence in the newly expanded international stables at Seoul Racecourse.

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Chrysolite & jockey Joe Fujii (Pic: Ross Holburt for KRA)

The horses have been working since arrival; very early in the mornings because of quarantine regulations – although on Tuesday they received a bit of a lie-in due to Korean horses at the track not working (Tuesday is traditionally a day-off in Korean racing and old habits die-hard – even with those due to be racing in the big ones this weekend), so the visitors had the track and parade-ring, which the Japanese horses schooled in, to themselves.

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Both Cup and Sprint look fascinating affairs with the Sprint, despite its lower prize-money, seeming especially competitive. The “Supers”, Hong Kong’s Super Jockey and Singapore’s Super Winner, as well as the newly Irish-trained Wild Dude join UAE pair of Art Wave and Beachy Head and Japanese duo Million Volts and Grape Brandy will face the hugely promising Busan-trained Perdido Pomeroy. While proven quality is on the side of the visitors, the sand-track can be a great leveler as was shown when Choegang Schiller, who will also run, won last year’s Asia Challenge Cup. Due to Super Jockey’s presence, the Sprint will be simulcast live to the Hong Kong Jockey Club.

The Japanese raiders look like they mean business and the pair of Chrysolite and Kurino Star O seem especially formidable in the Cup where they will line-up with Famous Mark as well as Singapore’s Infantry and Order Of The Sun, UAE’s Need To Know and Great Britain’s Solar Deity in taking on Korean Triple Crown winner Power Blade.

The barrier draw which, with 16 runners set to run in each race, could be crucial, will take place on Thursday lunchtime.

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 4)

Plenty going on at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday. In the capital there are 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00 while down on the South coast there are 6 from 13:00 to 17:00. English race-cards are here. Notes on most races below:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 10:50 (KST)

Half the field make their debuts but it’s to one with experience we turn. (7) REBECCA was 3rd on debut and should have too much here. She’ll be strong favourite. (8) NHA TRANG has raced twice and was an improved 3rd on August 13th and looks to be the main danger while (2) BLUE LADY can also improve on debut when she was 6th in the same race as Rebecca. Among the debut-makers, (5) KING MESSENGER looked the best in trials.

Selections (7) Rebecca (8) Nha Trang (5) King Messenger (2) Blue Lady
Next Best 1, 3, 4, 6
Fast Starters 2, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 11:15 (KST)

Not a strong lot here but we’ll go for (8) CHEONHA JAEPAE, the only one who comes in following a respectable result in his last start to make the breakthrough here. He was 3rd at class and distance last time and should have too much here. (1) NEULPUREUN JUMBO has a 2nd place to his name, achieved at this distance in June and looks clear 2nd best. Less said about the rest the better with (4) GEUMSU, (5) BYEOLJUNGUIBYEOL and (9) WHITE TIME perhaps with the most chance of improvement.

Selections (8) Cheonha Jaepae (1) Neulpureun Jumbo (4) Geumsu (9) White Time
Next Best 5, 7
Outsiders 2, 3, 6
Fast Starters 4, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 11:40 (KST)

(2) EONJE EODISEONA was a solid 2nd on her first try at this class on August 14th. He was prominent throughout and although well beaten by a good winner, can push on today. He’ll be on the early speed and should win this all-filly affair. (5) BEST QUEEN has come back into form of late with a 2nd and a 3rd from her last two. A strong finisher, she should be competitive again. (3) MONSTER QUEEN is up in class following her maiden win and has little to fear here while (6) SHINE QUEEN and (8) MARI look best of the rest.

Selections (2) Eonje Eodiseona (5) Best Queen (3) Monster Queen (8) Mari
Next Best 6, 7, 1, 4
Fast Starters 1, 2, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 12:20 (KST)

(4) SUN EAST was a shock 85/1 winner on a sloppy track at this class over 1400M in July and still an outsider, followed it up with a creditable 4th at this distance last month. He needs more respect today and could very well return to the winner’s circle. Newly licensed at Seoul, Italian jockey Marcello Belli debuts at Seoul this weekend and he has a chance here on (10) GEUMBIT ULLIM. Yet to win in ten outings, the colt has had several near misses recently and Belli could be the difference today. Likely early pace will come from (3) SPECIAL SHINE, who returns following almost five months out and looked in decent shape in a trial last week while (1) SUPER MOON and (8) NEW DOLPUNG look best of the rest.

Selections (10) Geumbit Ullim (4) Sun East (3) Special Shine (8) New Dolpung
Next Best 1, 9
Outsiders 2, 5, 6, 7
Fast Starters 3

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:25 (KST)

Competitive sprint this and we’ll look to three ones up in class to battle it out here. Gate 10 isn’t ideal but if he can get away well, (10) GANGHO CHEONNYEON can edge out (1) LA FENICE and (2) ARGO FLYING. The latter has only raced twice since coming last in the KRA Cup Mile (the opening leg of the Triple Crown) in April but was a good winner last time. Djordje Perovic is back in town having spent the last few months fulfilling licensing requirements overseas and will be eager to start riding winners again and (9) CIGAR ACE won’t be favourite but can be competitive. (4) PERFECT CLONE is another to consider, at least for the places.

Selections (10) Gangho Cheonnyeon (2) Argo Flying (1) La Fenice (9) Cigar Ace
Next Best 4, 5, 11
Outsiders 3, 6, 7, 8
Fast Starters 1, 2, 9, 11

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(5) EOJJUGARI, winner of back to back races at domestic class 5 in May and June looks craftily entered here among relatively soft imported opposition and has every chance of returning to winning ways. The other Korean-bred runner in the race (8) SPECIAL ROAD HILL looks to have been entered for similar reasons and will also be expected to show improvement form her last start and is likely to be the main danger. Among the six imports few stand out so we’ll give trial winner (4) BANYA DONGHAENG a chance on his racecourse debut with (3) DALLYEORA BEONGAE the other to consider.

Selections (5) Eojjugari (8) Special Road Hill (4) Banya Donghaeng (3) Dallyeora Beongae
Next Best 7, 1
Outsiders 2, 6
Fast Starters 5, 7

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 (KST)

Big field but big favourite too. (4) CITY STAR has two wins and two 2nd place finishes from four outings to date and should be superior here. He will likely lead all the way. (9) SIDAEUIYEOWANG was 4th to City Star’s 2nd over 1400M at this class on July 23rd and could be the one to get closest to him once more although (11) MAJUNGMUL, 4th on her first try at this level following back to back wins, can also be considered. Plenty more vying for places with (1) PRETTY BOY, (3) KKUMUI CLUB and (8) CHEONJI TAP chief among them.

Selections (4) City Star (9) Sidaeuiyeowang (11) Majungmul (1) Pretty Boy
Next Best 7, 3, 5, 8, 12, 6, 2
Outsiders 10, 13, 14
Fast Starters 2, 4, 8

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45 (KST)

Another big field and another where many have claims. (8) KODIAK LOVE is slightly favoured following two 2nds and a 3rd at this level. He’ll look to come from just off the early pace. There will be plenty on speed early including (5) SHARK MANSE. The two-year-old was a 4-length winner on debut on August 13th and should be fine up in class and distance today. Also on speed will be (1) SMOKEN JOE, a solid 2nd on a wet track at the end of July and likely to benefit from gate 1 here. (3) GOOD TYPE will also be away quickly and go well while attempting to come from off the pace will be (13) HUGHES ROAD. He’s back after eight months out and looked fast and competitive in an August trial.

Selections (8) Kodiak Love (5) Shark Manse (1) Smoken Joe (13) Hughes Road
Next Best 3, 11, 10, 12, 14
Outsiders 2, 4, 6, 7, 9
Fast Starters 1,2, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:35 (KST)

Up in class after back to back wins and five for seven in total, (7) MIDAS ROAD tries further than the minimum distance for just the second time. There are few opportunities at his preferred distance at this class so it will be interesting to see if he can stay on today. He will sit handy. Main danger is (10) MENI MUSIC, who comes in following back to back 2n places at lass and distance and will be on the early speed. She’ll be tough to pass as will (3) SANGGAM MAMA and (5) KATIE STAR, both of whom have claims. (4) DARK LADY, 5th behind Meni Music and Katie Star last time looks best of the rest.

Selections (7) Midas Road (10) Meni Music (5) Katie Star (3) Sanggam Mama
Next Best 4, 8, 11, 1
Outsiders 2, 6, 9
Fast Starters 1, 3, 5, 10

Seoul Race 10: Class 1 / 2000M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:30 (KST)

(4) GWANGBOK CHILSIP looked good when making all for a 7-length win over 1900M at class 2 on July 31st. He is up in class here but carries little weight and can win. Also nicely in here is (8) PINOT NOIR. She’s won a Listed race and a Stakes race already this year and was 2nd coming back from four-month absence last time out. Top weight – and top-rated – is (3) BICHUI WANGJA. He won a similar race at class and distance in July carrying even more than he is today and must be respected. He will look to lead all the way so the early dynamic between him and Gwangbok Chilsip, coming out of neighbouring gates, will be interesting. Plenty of other decent ones here as well with (5) MAGIC TAP, up at class one for the first time, and (6) HWANGGEUM TAP, looking the most promising.

Selections (4) Gwangbok Chilsip (3) Bichui Wangja (8) Pinot Noir (5) Magic Tap
Next Best 6, 10, 2, 11
Outsiders 1, 7, 9
Fast Starters 3, 4

Seoul Race 11: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 18:00 (KST)

Another competitive event to finish with. (3) SPECIAL HARBOR beat three of his rivals here on his way to victory at class and distance three weeks ago. The same apprentice jockey who rode him that day keeps his carried weight down once more and he looks the one to beat. (7) DONGCHON ARTIST returned from eight months out to win first-up on a wet track in July and will be well backed as well while (9) CLEAN UP STAR may have only won once in thirty outings but he got his sixth 2nd place finish last time out and can repeat today. (1) THUNDER STEP and (6) S ROSE, look best of the rest.

Selections (3) Special Harbor (7) Dongchon Artist (1) Thunder Step (9) Clean Up Star
Next Best 6, 4
Outsiders 2, 5, 8
Fast Starters 1, 4, 7

Marcello Belli To Debut At Seoul As Perovic Returns

A new foreign jockey debuts at Seoul this Saturday afternoon. 44-year-old Italian Marcello Belli, a one-time champion jockey in Italy will take his first Korean mount in race 9. Also on Saturday at Seoul, Djordje Perovic makes his long-awaited return.

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Marcello Belli (Pic: supplied by jockey)

Marcello Belli debuted in 1988 and has ridden approximately 1650 winners in Italy including success in Italian Group and listed races. Over the past three years he has maintained a win rate of 9.3% and a place rate of 21.6%. He is riding at Seoul on an initial three-month license until the end of November.

Although Belli has just the three mounts across the weekend, he has at least one live chance in the shape of Geumbit Ullim in Sunday’s race 4.

Fellow Italian-licensed jockey, Serbia’s Djordje Perovic, has been absent the past couple of months having had to fulfill license requirements elsewhere. Hhowever, the “Balkan Wolf” remains in 3rd place in the Seoul Jockey Championship and will be looking to pick up from where he left off with 14 rides across the weekend.

Belli and Perovic join Imran Chisty as the foreign contingent at Seoul.

Belli’s countrymen Pasquale Borelli and Paolo Aragoni are riding at Busan. Borelli rode a winner on Friday as did the third overseas member of the Busan jockey colony, Japan’s Yonekura Saoshi. Satoshi partnered Ms. Margaux to victory in the class 1 feature race for trainer Thomas Gillespie. Bart Rice also trained a winner on the day. Another foreign jockey has also been licensed at Busan as from September.

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Yonekura Satoshi and Thomas Gillespie’s Ms. Margaux win at Busan (Pic: Ross Holburt)

Saturday sees racing at Seoul and Jeju starting from 2pm and running until 9pm. Daytime cards at Seoul and Busan on Sunday.

Click here for English Racecards.

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September2)

The weekend’s racing gets underway on Friday afternoon with an 11-race card at Busan. The first is at 2.20pm and the last is at 9pmEnglish racecards are here. Notes on selected races below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 14:20

Ten of the twelve are first-time starters and of them, (1) QUEEN’S QUEEN showed the most in trials, comfortably defeating a couple of the others who debut here and she should go well. The other market leader is going to be (7) MORNING PARK. He’s one of the two who has raced before, finishing a creditable, if unspectacular 4th on debut last month and can push on from that. (10) FOUR NINES, from Kim Young Kwan’s stable will also be backed despite an average trial. Among the other debut-makers, (2) HWANHUIUI BARAM, (6) NAMYANG QUEEN and (9) RICH BOLT look most promising at this stage.

Selections (1) Queen’s Queen (7) Morning Park (10) Four Nines (9) Rich Bolt
Next Best 2, 3, 6, 5, 8
Outsiders 4, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 9

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 

Third on debut at the minimum distance last month, (9) GASOK ACE is likely to be strong favourite to strike here. He should lead all the way. This is a big field though and there are dangers. (1) SAMHYEONGJE comes in following consecutive 2nd places and while apprentice jockey Jung Do Yun is yet to ride his first winner, it could come here. He’ll be on speed early too. (6) ISIDAE YEONGGWANG and (7) DON’T STOP are both more experienced and both have recent 2nd places to their names and can repeat while (11) MISWICK MYEONGUN is two starts into a comeback following a lengthy absence and can build on a much improved 3rd place last start.

Selections (9) Gasok Ace (1) Samhyeongje (6) Isidae Yeonggwang (11) Miswick Myeongun
Next Best 7, 8, 10, 12
Outsiders 2, 3, 4, 5
Fast Starters 1, 8, 9

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:10 

(7) FERNANDO has been close on a number of occasions and back from three months off during which time he was gelded, is one of a number who can win this modest contest. Similarly (9) BAROGA has shown potential in this type of company before and can be close for an in-form stable. (1) GREAT PEARL is generally badly behaved but is quick and if jockey Seol Dong Bok can channel her energy in the correct direction, she has a chance; she will be on the early speed. (2) SEUNGNI JEONGSEONG was a much improved 4th last time out while (5) IGIPPEUM GEUDAERO is unlikely to get a maiden win on her 35th start but can compete for the placings.

Selections (7) Fernando  (9) Baroga (1) Great Pearl (2) Seungni Jeongseong
Next Best 5, 10, 8
Outsiders 3, 4, 6, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3

Busan Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 

The last of the maiden races and (8) DANCING STAR, who led for much of her last start in a similar all-filly race on August 12th only to be comprehensively beaten by a good winner in the final furlong, looks to be the one to beat here. (10) DESTINY enters following a solid 3rd place (beating Baroga, who we saw in race 3) and should be competitive here too. (6) DORAON GASOKDO struggled in that same race but gets another chance here. (3) LOOK AT ME and (9) NANDANALA look best of the rest.

Selections (8) Dancing Star (10) Destiny (6) Doraon Gasokdo (9) Nandanala
Next Best 3, 11, 2
Outsiders 1, 4, 5, 7
Fast Starters 1, 2, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:40 

(6) DONGBANG BULPAE was just beaten a nose by a long-shot last start on July 22nd. That was his second attempt at this level and he is favoured to go one better here and is likely to try to lead from the gate. (5) SUPER SWEET won on debut back in April and showed he too is getting to grips with this class following a solid 2nd place just two weeks ago while (3) MINIME comes in following back to back 3rd place finishes which she should be looking to at least match here. (9) BONGHWANGUI KKUM and the up in class (10) GEOWIUI KKUM, the latter of whom beat a number of horses who we have seen earlier today, are the others to consider.

Selections (6) Dongbang Bulpae (5) Super Sweet (10) Geowiui Kkum (9) Bonghwangui Kkum
Next Best 3, 1, 4
Outsiders 2, 7, 6, 78
Fast Starters  

Busan Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:25 

Competitive race this. (7) SUPER BLADE looks the likely favourite having been narrowly defeated at class and distance on August 12th after leading until close to home. (3) PANGPANG LEGEND, a prolific placer and (4) SUPERNOVA IJI, a strong 3rd in a good race for this level on August 7th, will also be well backed. (8) DAESTAR and (5) JEOKDOUI HWASIN are up in class having finished 1st and 2nd on the former’s debut on August 7th. Both will need to find a bit more here but can’t be completely ruled out. (9) SHARP QUEENS was an easy winner of an all-filly race three weeks ago and up in class, will also need to find more today.

Selections (7) Super Blade (4) Supernova Iji (8) Daestar (9) Sharp Queens
Next Best 3, 5, 1, 2, 6
Fast Starters 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:05 

Thomas Gillespie’s (9) JUNGANG YEOJE suffered a surprise defeat at the hands of a dark-horse debut-maker on August 7th but should have enough to get back to winning ways here. She’ll be on the early pace along with (1) DIVINE TOUCH, who showed promise with a 2nd place on what was just his second start three weeks ago. (5) GOLDEN QUEEN was 4th behind Jungang Yeoje last time and can get close once more with (7) JEONSEOLUI SIJAK and (3) WIRYEOKGIMA also having potential to improve.

Selections (9) Jungang Yeoje (1) Divine Touch (5) Golden Queen (3) Wiryeokgima
Next Best 7, 11, 6, 4, 10
Outsiders 2, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 9

Busan Race 8: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:45 

(6) SONATA ZONE recorded a really good win, closing late to score by a nose in a decent race at this class over 1400M last month. She’ll need respect here too but we’ll go for the up in class (7) CAPITAL GANGJA to get the job done today after a pair of 2nd places in good company at class 5. She’ll be on pace early whereas Sonata Zone is likely to try to do it the hard way again today and may run out of track this time. (3) VALKYRIE has finished no worse than 3rd in each of her last four outings and can extend that run today while Bart Rice’s (8) KKEUTPAN BOOSTER is up in class and should be competitive.

Selections (7) Capital Gangja (6) Sonata Zone (3) Valkyrie (8) Kkeutpan Booster
Next Best 5, 9
Outsiders 1, 2, 4
Fast Starters 3, 7

Busan Race 9: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 19:35 

(8) STEALTH’s last three races have been the three legs of the Triple Crown. He finished 3rd, 3rd & 5th in them respectively. Back in this company and at this distance, he has to be strongly favoured to return to winning ways. (7) YUSEONG TIGER was 2nd in Busan’s Oaks Trial in March although she didn’t run in the filly Classic itself, instead struggling against older fillies and mares in July’s KNN Cup. She is another who will be much happier dropped back in trip and should be competitive. (3) STEAL THE SHOW WHY did make it to the Oaks. She was 6th of 9 and has won since. She is likely to get a comfortable early lead here. (Among the older contenders here, (6) SANGSEUNG JUNIOR and the up in class pair of (5) BIO BLUE and (9) PRIVATE DANCER look capable of going well.

Selections (8) Stealth (7) Yuseong Tiger (3) Steal The Show Why (6) Sangseung Junior
Next Best 9, 5, 1, 10, 2
Outsiders 4
Fast Starters 3

Santa Gloria Strikes In Jeju Trial

Trials for October’s Jeju Governor’s Cup were run at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday and it was on the south coast where the standout performance took place where Santa Gloria gave Italian jockey Paolo Aragoni his biggest Korean winner to date.

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Santa Gloria and Paolo Aragoni win the Busan leg of the Jeju Governor’s Cup Trials (Pic: Ross Holburt)

Despite having broken the 1300M track record the last time she raced, Santa Gloria was only sent off as third-favourite for the 1400M trial with two fillies she finished behind in the Korean Oaks in June, Special Rookie and Hoseungjibyeok, being favoured by punters.

On a very sloppy track, Santa Gloria made a mockery of those odds though. Hoseungjibyeok began tamely and never featured while Special Rookie, despite getting to the front rounding the turn, was unable to find another gear in the home straight. Aragoni meanwhile was patient on Santa Gloria and when he pulled the trigger with just over a furlong to go, the rest had no response.

The winning margin was three-lengths with  Sharp Gale getting the closest in the end. Santa Gloria (Menifee) will now be one of the favourites for the Jeju Governor’s Cup race itself – a valuable race for Korean bred fillies and mares – in Seoul in October. Hopefully Aragoni will get the opportunity to keep the ride.

In Seoul, Santa Gloria is likely to be facing Chang Se. She ran out a decent winner in the capital’s own trial for the race thirty minutes later. Chang Se (Forest Camp) now has seven wins from thirteen starts.

Jeju Governor’s Cup Trial – Busan Racecourse – 1400M – August 28, 2016

1. Santa Gloria (KOR) [Menifee – Pupil (Unbridled)] – Paolo Aragoni – 6.6, 2.1
2. Sharp Gale (KOR) [Creek Cat – My Sister Jess (Sligo Bay)] – Song Keong Yun – 3.6
3. Special Rookie (KOR) [Menifee – Swing City (Carson City)] – Kim Yong Geun – 1.2
Distances: 3 lengths / 0.5 lengths – 8 ran

Jeju Governor’s Cup Trial – Seoul Racecourse – 1400M – August 28, 2016

1. Chang Se (KOR) [Forest Camp – Daecheonpung (Fiercely)] – Lee Chan Ho – 1.8, 1.1
2. Smart Time (KOR) [Ft. Stokton – Charon (Jade Robbery)] – Ham Wan Sik – 2.3
3. Meni Money (KOR) [Menifee – Pocketful Of Money (Running Stag)] – Moon Se Young – 1.4
Distances: 1.75 lengths / 1 length – 10 ran

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

Trials at both Seoul & Busan for October’s Jeju Governor’s Cup are the main events at both tracks today. Big firleds at Seoul, slightly smaller in Busan but plenty of action nonetheless Seoul has 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00 and Busan 6 from 13:00 to 17:00.

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Vision 127 – so called because it’s 127 metres long, was switched on at Seoul yesterday. It is supposedly the largest of its type in the world

English race cards are here. Notes on selected races below:

Busan Race 1

Selections (2) Impassioned Marine (4) Major Winner (5) Amazing Daeji (6) Choegang Monster
Next Best 7, 1, 3
Outsiders  
Fast Starters 4, 5

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13.35

(3) MIRACLE TO YOU and (6) YEONDARA are both up in class following maiden wins last start and while the former has a good chance of following up here it may be that at the 16th time of asking, (1) SEMYEONG LIGHT finally makes the breakthrough here. She was a good 2nd in a decent event a month ago and can come from off the pace here. (2) MISUJAE and (4) YEOUI KING should go close while another long-time maiden (8) JOEUN DAY also looks n with a shout of the placings.

Selections (1) Semyeong Light (3) Miracle To You (4) Yeoui King (2) Misujae
Next Best 8, 6, 7, 5
Outsiders 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 13.45

(4) JANTEUGAREU has won three of five so far and is banker favourite here to provide apprentice jockey Jung Do Yun with his first race victory. He should get an easy lead and make all. The others are up against it but (2) MAHURU and (7) TAEGWON CHAMP are always competitive and can run the favourite close, with (1) YEONGGWANGUICHUBOK and (6) PARTYINTHEDESERT other contenders to place.

Selections (4) Janteugareu (2) Mahuru (7) Taegwon Champ (6) Partyinthedesert
Next Best 1, 3
Outsiders 5, 8
Fast Starters 4

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:10 

We’ve had (7) DIDORPHIN on top plenty of times before and he’s let us down but after four 2nd places, we have to make him top choice once more to finally score. There’s not a huge amount of pace here and the race can set up nicely for him. (3) NAREUMUI YEONGHON was 5thbehind Didorphin back in March and returned to action after four months off in July with a solid 3rd place at class and distance and should be looking to better that today. (5) BOM DON I is highest rated and is already a winner at class and distance while (6) HWANHUIUISUNGAN and (10) MINSON also look set to be competitive.

Selections (7) Didorphin (3) Nareumui Yeonghon (5) Bom Dong I (10) Minson
Next Best 6, 11, 1, 2
Outsiders 4, 8, 9
Fast Starters 4

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:30 

(7) RUN STAR made all to pull off a surprisingly comprehensive victory over class and distance on July 24th. An apprentice jockey keeps the weight down nicely here and he must be respected. He may not be favourite though. Both (4) USEUNG CHEONJI and (6) BAEKDU YEONGUNG are capable performers at this level and the latter in particular, following two 2nd places at this distance, beaten by decent ones both times, looks ready to win. (3) MAYA COUNTRY was 7th behind Run Star last start and can get closer today while Thomas Gillespie’s (5) MUJEOK SINHWA can also improve on recent efforts.

Selections (6) Baekdu Yeongung (7) Run Star (4) Useung Cheonji (3) Maya Country
Next Best 5, 8, 2, 1
Fast Starters 5, 7

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 

Big competitive field here but (2) JINDALLAE, whose one prior start was all the way back last October, gets the nod based on an impressive – and very quick – performance in a recent trial. The only prior winner in the field, (7) HAPPY TODAY was slightly disappointing dead-heating for 5th last time out but gets another chance here in softer company while (8) JEOLDAE BYEONGGI has been getting closer in two recent outings at 1000M and will be on the speed early. (4) TOTAL WALKER will also be a fast starter and can stay on to dispute the places with (10) LEGEND KING and (14) LOST IN DRAMA looking best of the rest.

Selections (2) Jindallae (7) Happy Today (14) Lost In Drama (4) Total Walker
Next Best 8, 10, 3, 6, 12, 5
Outsiders 1, 9, 11, 13
Fast Starters 2, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 4

Selections (6) Blue Storm (10) Haneolui Jilju (7) Baramui Jeonseol (8) Pokpung Sinhwa
Next Best 11, 1, 2, 9
Outsiders 3, 4, 5
Fast Starters 3, 6, 9

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:45

(1) SAMBA FESTIVAL has won three from nine and while yet to strike at this class, she wasn’t far off in an all-filly event at this distance last month. Expect her to lead here from gate 1 and once there she may be difficult to dislodge. (2) FLY WING is up in class and back in trip following a six-length victory over 1700M and with the stable on top form now, looks dangerous again. (6) SARYEONI KING disappointed on his first try at this level last start but can be given another chance here while the up in class pair of (7) JEONGSANGUI BIT and (10) RAIN SKY look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Samba Festival (2) Fly Wing (6) Saryeoni King (10) Rain Sky
Next Best 7, 9, 4, 8
Outsiders 3, 5, 11
Fast Starters 1, 6

Busan Race 5: Class Open / 1400M / Allowance / KRW 150 Million / 16:10

Fillies and mares only in this trial for a Group race at Seoul at the beginning of October. (3) HOSEUNGJIBYEOK was 3rd in the Korean Oaks in June but is more suited to races around just the one turn and she’s the pick here having struck by almost three lengths at this distance a month ago. Main danger is another three-year-old. (6) SPECIAL ROOKIE was an eye-catching thirteen-length winner over 1200M three weeks ago. She was 4th in the Oaks and there looks to be plenty more to come from here. 5th in the Oaks was (7) SANTA GLORIA. She returned to action last month and smashed the track record for 1300M when winning by eight lengths. Different conditions today but she will be competitive. While the three-year-olds look to have the edge here, (1) HWANGGEUMBITJIJUNG and (2) JIBONG SARANG can be considered.

Selections (3) Hoseungjibyeok (6) Special Rookie (7) Santa Gloria (2) Jibong Sarang
Next Best 1, 8, 5, 4
Fast Starters 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 9: Class Open / 1400M / Allowance / KRW 200 Million / 15:35 

Seoul’s trial for the same Group race. (2) CHANG SE was a very good winner over this distance at the end of last month, her second consecutive dominant win and she could very well make all here. (7) MENI MONEY looks to be finally living up to her early potential. She beat a couple of these last start when an impressive class 2 winner at this distance and is the main danger here. Those two look superior to the rest although (4) QUEEN CREEK CAT will be on speed early and can keep her run of recent good form going. (5) SMART TIME was beaten by Meni Money at 1800M in June but is a proven performer in tougher company than this while (10) SINGGEUREOUNBOM beat Chang Se back in May and comes in here in good form.

Selections (2) Chang Se (7) Meni Money (4) Queen Creek Cat (5) Smart Time
Next Best 10, 9, 3
Outsiders 1, 6, 8
Fast Starters 2, 4

Busan Race 6 / Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 17:00 

(10) BIT BLADE has won seven of eight in an interrupted career so far and having beaten three of these when winning at this distance by a neck at the end of June, breaking from gate 10 that day too, he is favoured to prevail once more. It won’t be easy though. (7) JIBONG SEUNGNI got within five lengths of Rock Band over 1800M last month, has a 4.5kg weight advantage and will come from just off the pace here. A solid class and distance winner in June, he has every chance. Those two will be the market leaders although (1) CHOEGANG PLUS can be respected having beaten four of these when unexpectedly winning at class and distance last month. (3) QUEEN TWO HEARTS and (5) PUREUN ACE were among those beaten that day but will be favoured to go better here.

Selections (10) Bit Blade (7) Jibong Seungni (5) Pureun Ace (3) Queen Two Hearts
Next Best 1, 8, 4
Outsiders 2, 6, 9
Fast Starters 3, 10

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 17:30 

(1) GUY START has just the one win from 29 outings but could be on for a second having gone well in recent outings. Top weight is an issue though and the up in class and distance (4) DAEBOBAE could be the one to take advantage. A solid winner of an all-filly event over 1300M on July 23rd, she looks very nicely in here. As does (5) IGWANGSASEOK who is up in class but was a winner at this distance on July 31st. He made all that day but may be content to let others lead here. (3) CHARISMA QUEEN and (7) LITTLE BROWN look best of the rest.

Selections (4) Daebobae (5) Igwangsaseok (1) Guy Start (3) Charisma Queen
Next Best 7, 6
Outsiders 2, 8
Fast Starters 2, 4, 7

Seoul Race 11: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 18:00 

Big competitive class 1 handicap to finish with. (2) SILVER WOLF was a very good 3rd in the KNN Cup at Busan last month and as one of a number carrying light weights, looks very nicely in here to return to the winner’s circle for the first time since one day under a year ago. (1) HALLA CHUKJE hasn’t raced since a similarly impressive 2nd in the Ttukseom Cup in early June and will join Silver Wolf in racing prominently early on. She is a threat. (13) SAMJEONG JEGUK is better than his four wins from seventeen suggest and can be considered. (8) GUMANSEOK returned to form with a 2nd place over 2000M last month just a neck in front of (12) SPACE PORT and the latter will have backers here.

Selections (2) Silver Wolf (1) Halla Chukje (13) Samjeong Jeguk (12) Space Port
Next Best 8, 3, 4, 5, 7
Outsiders 6, 9, 10, 11
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 11

Seoul & Busan Sunday Preview (August 21)

Updated accepted nominations of overseas-trained horses for September’s Keeneland Korea Cup & Sprint have been posted on the KRA’s English language homepage here. After the sad passing of Franklin D, another horse from the UK, Solar Deity, is set to make the trip. There are also alterations to horses from Japan and the UAE. Today in Korea, there are 11 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 13:00 to 17:00.

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Seoul Racecourse has really changed…A “Baskin Robbins”: outlet opened in the grandstand this weekend

English racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races (overseas simulcast) are below:

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(9) SPIRIT OF HANSEN led until just before the very end of his debut race on July 10th and he’s the pick to hold on this time at the same distance. Chasing him down will be (1) ACE RUNNER, a creditable 3rd on his own debut last month and a decent prospect himself. Korean-bred (13) SEUNGNI ANGEL, winner of her last two in the domestic ranks, takes her chance against perceived weaker imports here and should go well although she likes to be prominent early and will have to work hard from gate 13. (10) DALLYEORA BEONGAE, 4th to Seungni Angel last time, can match or better that here. A note too for debut-maker (2) COMPETIR, a rare NZ bred in Korea by Mr. Nancho, looked quick in her trial.

Selections (9) Spirit Of Hansen (13) Seungni Angel (1) Ace Runner (2) Competir
Next Best 10, 7, 11, 14, 5, 6
Outsiders 3, 4, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3, 4, 7, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:45 (KST)

(9) JERAJIN got her maiden win at the third time of asking last start and while up in class here, has claims to follow-up right away in this all-filly affair. She may not be favourite though. That should be (7) TEXAS RUSH who, while yet to win in seven outings, comes in following three consecutive 2nd place finishes, last time at class and distance and she’ll be well backed to make the breakthrough here. Having won on debut, (5) CHALLAUI JUIN was very disappointing when favourite on her reappearance last month but gets another chance here while (2) MAKGANG JILJU and (3) WINNING GILI, the latter 3rd behind Texas Rush last time, should be competing for places.

Selections (7) Texas Rush (9) Jerajin (5) Challaui Juin (2) Makgang Jilju
Next Best 3, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 6
Fast Starters 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:10 (KST)

No fewer than eight of these are up in class for here, six of them following wins last start. Among them, we’ll go for (11) JANGSAN CITY, three length winner of a decent race in June, ahead of (7) KING AHEAD, to follow up. (14) INTO THE WILD prevailed by an eye-catching eight lengths at this distance on July 16th and needs to be considered while (13) CHEONJI SEONGGONG was promoted without a class 5 win but still looks competitive at this level. Of those with prior class 4 experience, Brian Dean’s (8) CHEONGCHUN YEOLCHA, a winner at this class three weeks ago is the pick ahead of (1) TOKTOK YEOJANGGUN.

Selections (11) Jangsan City (8) Cheongchun Yeolcha (14) Into The Wild (13) Cheonji Seonggong
Next Best 1, 5, 6, 7, 3, 4, 12
Outsiders 2, 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 10, 12, 14

Busan Race 3: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 (KST)

Banker favourite of the day here as (1) EUROPA, two for two so far steps up in class but should have little difficulty in handling this filed. A gate to wire win seems most likely. The two others up in class, (5) JANGGUNEUI HUYE and (6) GIGA SPEED, both looking for winning hat-tricks of their own, look best placed to stop him with (2) FIRST KING and (3) CLEAN CHOEGANG set to compete for the minor money.

Selections (1) Europa (6) Giga Speed (5) Jangguneui Huye (2) First King
Next Best 3, 4, 8
Outsiders 7, 9
Fast Starters 1, 5

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 (KST)

(3) SOKBO WANGJA defeated (11) RAON ROUIS by a length as the pair ran 1st and 2nd at class and distance on July 24th and they will be the market leaders. Sokbo Wangja’s victory that day was unexpected and the tables may well be turned today. It’s no two-horse race though, (6) SUN MASTER comes in following back to back 2nd places at class 5 and while up a level here, will be competitive with (1) STAR BONNY BEE and (5) DOLJIN among others with claims. (12) MONGGEULMONGGEUL, winner of two from four returns up in class from a couple of months off and can go well too. There will be quite a dash for the first corner with lots of these wanting to be on the early speed.

Selections (11) Raon Rouis (3) Sokbo Wangja (6) Sun Master (5) Doljin
Next Best 12, 1, 9, 8, 9, 10
Outsiders 2, 4, 7, 13
Fast Starters 2, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45 (KST)

(6) SUN ROK should get back to winning ways here following a surprisingly comprehensive reverse at the hands of Suseong Captain on a muddy track last month. He will lead here and this time can make all. (2) RAON BOLAVEN, also rather disappointing last time out, looks to be the main danger although the experienced (4) CARDIFF HWANHUI unexpectedly returned to form with a 3rd place over this distance on July 24th and must be respected a little more today. (3) GRAND CAMP and (7) VALLEY STAR are others who can improve.

Selections (6) Sun Rok (2) Roan Bolaven (4) Cardiff Hwanhui  (7) Valley Star
Next Best 3
Outsiders 1, 5, 8
Fast Starters 3, 6