Author: gyongmaman

Oaks Day 2021: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (November 14)

The 2021 Korean Oaks will be run at Busan on Sunday afternoon – full horse-by-horse preview to follow. There are 7 races at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40 and 10 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. The racecourses and all betting locations are open at restricted capacity, however, there is no walk-in admission and attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is also required. Here are the previews:

Uaryung won the Oaks last year (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A small field of juvenile maidens assemble for the opener with a few standouts. Both of (5) CHEONJI JIDAE’s starts to date have been over 1000M and both times he has recorded decent times, finishing in 3rd and 4th and running on well. He steps up to 1200M here and should have solid claims to be on pace throughout. The main danger is (8) CHAMJOEUN CHINGU. She too has operated only at 1000M prior to today and ran an improved 3rd on her second start on October 17th. She’s from a red-hot stable and can continue to show progress here. (6) SPEED GALLOP similarly improved to 2nd place at start number two on October 10th. She was a long way behind a good winner, but she ran on well and the additional furlong may suit. Solitary debut-maker (3) TITAN SOCKS led in his most recent trial, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place in a fair time and can go well first-up. (4) JILJUE BADA is one of only two who have tackled the distance before and could challenge for the places.

Selections(5) Cheonji Jidae (8) Chamjoeun Chingu (6) Speed Gallop (3) Titan Socks
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Small field of two and three-year-old maidens. (8) WONDERFUL FAGER looks set to be the one to beat, despite returning from twenty-two weeks out. He’s finished 3rd in three of his four starts and finished in that very same position in a trial two weeks ago. He can sit handy here and run on strong. (2) DAEHO NURI comes in having taken his chance in a Listed juvenile race last time out when he ran 6th of ten in a fair time over this distance. He showed handy to the lead that day and will be expected to do similar today with solid claims to be in this a long way. Also likely to be on pace this time will be (3) ADELE CHUKBAE, who may appreciate the step up in trip. All three of his starts so far have been at 1000M and with a slightly less intense early part of the race here, he can find a better position. (5) NEW CROWN and (6) WONDERFUL DIGGER are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(8) Wonderful Fager (2) Daeho Nuri (3) Adele Chukbae (5) New Crown
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Big field and from the inside spot, (1) SARYEONI FIRST may prove hard to beat. He ran 2nd to Aspen Taeyang on debut before finishing 3rd behind Meni Wonderful and Icheon Arch at his second start on October 3rd. Both were over 1000M, and he made good ground late both times. The additional furlong can suit, and he’ll be favourite to salute at the third time of asking. (3) LONDON POWER enters off a good 4th place finish at class and distance on October 16th. She draws similarly well today and should be able to grab an early lead. She won’t necessarily be easy to go past. There is one first-time starter in the shape of (5) BE CRAZY. There are sure to be plenty of eyes on the three-year-old gelding as he is a half-brother to top line Seoul-based sprinter East Jet. He won a barrier trial in an unhurried fashion a month ago and has every chance of going well first-up. (10) SMART JEONSA and (6) DONGSEO YEOGEOL are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(1) Saryeoni First (3) London Power (5) Be Crazy (10) Smart Jeonsa
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

After an inauspicious debut, (10) DAEJI CHOICE has run well in three subsequent starts including a 3rd place in the Listed Areumdaun Jilju n Stakes for juveniles at his latest outing on October 3rd over 1200M when he emerged out of the pack late on, a long way behind the winner but well clear of 4th. The step up in trip may be to his benefit and he can win here. The big danger is (3) DAEHOMA. The three-year-old comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on October 17th when always on pace from the same gate he has drawn today and beating several of these in the process. He’ll be the one to aim at here and could go all the way. (8) HANSEN ICHEON races for the third time, having improved to run 3rd behind Daehoma at start number two. He was on pace that day and is likely to be challenging for the lead again here. (11) GIANT CAL and (1) GWANGDAESEUNGCHEON, who also went in that race, are others in the hunt.

Selections(10) Daeji Choice (3) Daehoma (8) Hansen Icheon (11) Giant Cal
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) JIGEUMYEOGIE did precisely nothing across twelve starts at sprint distances up until August. He was then given a couple of months off, trialed up well and then tried over 1700M for the first time, a distance at which he proceeded to make up excellent late ground and to run 2nd. The time was not quick but quick is one thing he will not need to be in this race and frankly, he is hard to oppose. (6) HANI ran 4th behind Jigeumyeogie at his latest start and that’s enough to bring him too into contention here while (3) TAEYANGTAGO also scored a career-best 4th on her first try at this distance a month ago and similarly can be looking to go at least one better today. As for the rest, (10) SOUTH BAN and (2) SAENAE HWANGJE perhaps have the best chance of competing for a place.

Selections(1) Jigeumyeogie (6) Hani (3) Taeyangtago (10) South Ban
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 10

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

(3) PURE KING is the one to beat here. A good winner over 1200M at class 6 level two starts back, he then beat a couple of these on his way to a runner-up finish on his first try at both this class and distance on October 8th when he was on pace throughout. He only comes up marginally in the weights and draws well again and should have enough to see off this small field. (4) MONGTTANG comes up in class having registered his maiden win when coming from midfield to score over 1200M just two weeks ago. The additional trip can suit and under a light weight and a nice draw, he should measure up at this level. (6) RUN FIGHTER and (2) DOCTOR TEXAS came home in 5th and 4th respectively behind Pure King a month ago and both can be considered for at least places here. (7) SMARTY DOLPUNG comes up in class and in distance following a coast-to-coast score over 1300M in September. He has had nine weeks off since but can’t be left out of the calculations here.

Selections(3) Pure King (4) Mongttang (6) Run Fighter (2) Doctor Texas
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

Quite a good race with boosted prize money as it is a race where either the sire or dam of a runner must have raced in Korea. (7) WONDERFUL K is a perfect one for one at this distance having come from a handy position to score emphatically on his first crack at it at class 6 level on October 10th. He’ll probably need to run a faster time to repeat today but he looks to have scope for improvement. (1) TYCHE FIRE is a winner at this class and distance and comes in having run 4th in each of his latest four outings. He comes in having beaten a few of these at this latest start over 1400M, running on strong from the back as is his style and he will probably start as favourite here. (9) MAKALU POWER comes up in trip having run on well in his latest outings over shorter. A nineteen-race maiden, he doesn’t seem a likely winner but could place. (6) RUFFIAN PARK and (3) GYEONGBU DORYEONG are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(7) Wonderful K (1) Tyche Fire (9) Makalu Power (6) Ruffian Park
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 12

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

A good race but (8) WONDER BLADE should have the edge. He raced twice in October for 2nd and 4th places, both at this class, first at 1200M and then at 1400M. He does come up a full 4kg in the weights for that latest effort, but Perovic climbs back aboard, and he looks firmly in the hunt. (12) CLIFTON KING was a good winner on debut which led him to be sent off as favourite for the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes on October 3rd, a juvenile Listed race. That status was perhaps more to do with his stable rather than his actual prospects in that race, but he should have come on for the experience and can go much closer here. (2) NAMED races for the first time since getting her maiden win back in ay when she made all in a fast time at this distance. That in turn was nine-months after her debut as a juvenile so we know she can go well first up. She trialed up nicely a couple of weeks ago and gets a nice gate. (3) CROWN KING STAR comes up in class after a good win over the distance on October 15th. From a good gate he can sit handy and be competitive. (7) GLORY KING was well back behind Wonder blade on his first try at this class six weeks ago but has proven himself capable of running good times at this distance and is perhaps worth another chance here.

Selections(8) Wonder Blade (12) Clifton King (2) Named (3) Crown King Star
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

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

Tricky race. (3) GOLD SPIKE is the narrow top pick having won at this distance in a fast time at class 6 level two starts back before running a good 4th on her first try at this class on October 10th. Her style is to sit back and run on and she has as good a claim as any here. (8) RAON THE TIGER had a poor day at the office at his latest start back on August 21st. He had a couple of months off after that and only came back into full work at the end of last month but going on prior form where he has run and won in fast times at this distance, he has to come into the calculations and is a probable front-runner. (2) MEOTJIN GUY enters with almost identical form to Gold Spike having won two starts back at class 6 level before finishing 4th on his first try at this class, both at today’s distance. He too tends to get back in his races before running on and is a chance here. (7) FLYING FULL MOON comes up in class following an all the way win over this distance four weeks ago and is another who should be on pace. (9) OLD SPECIAL has mixed form at this level but is another who has run a fast time at this distance and could challenge for minor money at least.

Selections(3) Gold Spike (8) Raon The Tiger (2) Meotjin Guy (7) Flying Full Moon
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Competitive race. We’ll take a chance on (5) COOL GUY, a colt who has never finished worse than 3rd in seven outings to date but who steps up in trip to a mile for the first time. Both his wins have come at 1200M, but he has posted decent times at 1400M and has finished off his races well. He comes in here off a nine-week layoff but trialed up last week in good order and can win. (1) MAGIC FLYING is the probable favourite. He may have only won two of his thirty-five starts so far but he has a further ten top three finishes to his name and enters after an excellent 2nd place behind Sky More over 1800M on October 17th. Tactically versatile, he draws well here and has every chance. (10) HAPPY WOMAN was a fast winner over 1400M at class 5 level on October 3rd and then three weeks later, stepped up to this class and distance and ran a super 3rd with a number of today’s rivals behind her. She carries next to no weight at all and despite the wider draw, has a winning chance again. Plenty of others are in at least the placing frame with (3) SEUNGNI TOUT and (6) CRONUS the most prominent.

Selections(5) Cool Guy (1) Magic Flying (10) Happy Woman (3) Seungni Tout
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 13)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations across the country, including the three racecourses, are open at limited capacity. Attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 are required. No walk-up admission is available. Here are the previews:

It’s autumn in Seoul

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

Juvenile maidens get the weekend underway in the capital and five of the eleven are racing for the first time. Much of the experience is promising though, including top pick and probable favourite (3) DUSON FANTASTIC. He finished in the pack on his first start in September, but the performance was good, and he showed solid improvement to then run 2nd on his reappearance on October 16th. He is a front-runner; he draws well here, and he can win. Among those challenging him for the early speed will be (4) RAON THE DASH. After winning a July trial, she has finished 5th in both race starts to date, both in quick times. Look for her to be challenging for better here. (9) COMPLETE LUCKY significantly improved at start number two with an on-pace 3rd a month ago. Expect her to be in this a long way. (1) CHAMP STYLE has run on well in both starts to date and while she may want a little further, she can’t be ruled out from the inside gate. As for the first-time starters (2) SMART BYEOL improved across two trials and perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(3) Duson Fantastic (4) Raon The Dash (9) Complete Lucky (1) Champ Style
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

Juvenile filly maidens with five of the ten racing for the very first time. It’s very hard to go past (6) ICHEON ARCH. Having only just scraped through her trial, she was totally unfancied on debut on October 2nd but ran around in 2nd place the entire way behind a good winner in a fast time. If she runs to anything near that today, then she should win. Frankly it’s also hard to look past (7) MAGIC JUDE for 2nd. She’s raced twice and finishes 6th twice in fair times for the respective conditions. She draws better today and won’t need to improve much to get on the board. Of the first timers, (3) NAOL CHAMP beat a couple of these in an October trial when handy to the lead early and just getting a little tired towards the end. If she’s trained on since, then she should have a placing chance first up. (1) WONDERFUL KITTY and (2) GEUMA WITTY others who may have a say.

Selections(6) Icheon Arch (7) Magic Jude (3) Naol Champ (1) Wonderful Kitty
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only here. The logical pick is (8) GEUMGUKHWA, who seems to be working towards a win especially going on her latest two outings, especially her last start 2nd at this distance when she ran on strong from midfield to be beaten only by a good winner in a decent time. In this company she may well be ridden further forward earlier, and she has solid claims. (9) EAST MAGIC returned from almost eight months off to run an improved 4th over 1200M on October 9th. She should have come on for that run and the additional half-furlong today may well suit. (2) LUCKY CROWN has made all three starts so far at 1000M and at the latest of those was an improved 3rd in a fast time. She draws well to get on the pace here and is firmly in the hunt. (7) ELITE RULES came home 5th behind East Magic at her latest start and should be competitive again here while (5) LAGERTHA is the sole runner to have winning experience. It came at this distance four starts back and while she hasn’t done much in her other outings, that alone is another to bring her into the calculations in this kind of race.

Selections(8) Geumgukhwa (9) East Magic (2) Lucky Crown (7) Elite Rules
Next Best5, 12
Fast Start2, 8, 12, 13

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Not the greatest of maidens here with none of the fourteen coming in having finished any better than 6th at their respective latest starts. (7) DESK TAP is the one to beat. He enters with the greatest consistency having finished in the top five on five of eight outings so far and can step up to 1300M for the first time with confidence. He has the fastest star in this field and from a decent enough draw and with David Breux taking over in the saddle, he can win. Draw a line through the latest offering from (12) REAL CONCORD when she was hampered early and in general got a bad trip. Instead go on her 2nd place two starts back at this distance as well as her 5th place the time before when she beat a couple of these, and she figures to be the main danger. Get the ruler out again and draw another line through the last showing of (3) MAIN OF KING. He comes back in trip today, draws well and comes down 4kg in the weights with an apprentice up and can go much better. (13) WONDERFUL CAT has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and while it was some time ago, that alone means she shouldn’t be completely ruled out in this company. (11) BARAMGWA HAMKKE another with placing chances.

Selections(7) Desk Tap (12) Real Concord (3) Main Of King (13) Wonderful Cat
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another maiden where the form going in is distinctly average. That makes (10) SUPER BIRD a standout on the basis of her runner-up finish at her latest start on October 9th when she came from well off the pace to run on strong over 1200. She ran 3rd on her only previous try at this distance and looks to be the one to beat here. (14) K N PARK has only raced the once and should have come on for that 6th place finish over 1200M back in August He draws badly here but looks worthy of consideration in a weak race. (3) GREAT EYE has mixed his form across five starts so far but draws nicely here and should be in the mix. He got way too far back last time but should have an easier run of it here. (12) GABO SARANGHAE has mixed her form but is capable of running good times and along with (1) VIENTO, is another in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Super Bird (14) K N Park (3) Great Eye (12) Gabo Saranghae
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 12, 14

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) RAON CHAMPSELY returned from five months off on October 3rd and looked very much as tough she needed the race, knocking up very quickly and finishing last in a fast race at 1300M. She is way better than that though and should come in today race fit and ready to win from a nice draw. (6) JISANGUN comes up in class after an all the way win over 1200M on October 16th. He had been working up to that win for a while and it was a dominant one in a time faster than any of today’s rivals have achieved at the distance so he certainly should measure up class wise. (7) GEUMA FLAWLESS is yet to win in eleven attempts but has been consistently close with six top-three finishes. He generally settles back and runs on and will coming on strong late once more. (3) DREAM PELLA races for the first time since winning over this distance at class 6 level in May. He looked well in a trial three weeks ago and has every chance of going well first-up. (8) WOL YEONG I another in the placing hunt.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 12)

It’s Korean Oaks weekend with the Filly Classic taking place at Busan on Sunday. The weekend’s racing gets underway on the south coast on Friday with seven races from 12:40 to 18:00. All betting locations throughout the country are open to punters, however there is a capacity cap and attendance must be pre-booked through the My Card app – no walk-up admission is available. Those booking through the My Card app must also be able to provide evidence of full vaccination against Covid-19. Here are Friday’s previews:

It’s Friday. It’s…Busan before they built all those factories around the track

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens and a likely hot favourite in the shape of (4) MAN OF THE STAR. After winning an early September trial, the Menifee colt ran 2nd on debut on debut on October 1st in a fat race on a very wet track over 1000M when he led for much of the way around before going down narrowly to a good winner with the pair of them well clear of 3rd. He should have come on for that run, the additional distance shouldn’t be a problem and from a good draw he can lead all the way. (9) STELL LUNA has raced twice already, finishing 4th and 3rd over 1000M. Both times B. K. Marshall was not far ahead of her and that filly went on to win at class 5 last week. Stepping up to six furlongs, she should go close. There are just two debut-makers and of the pair, (7) CAPTAIN YANKEE looks best placed to make an immediate impact. He made all to win a trial in fine order in October and with a good start should be in the frame first-up. (2) HWARANG ACE and (3) GOLDEN BROOM are others in the frame.

Selections(4) Man Of The Star (9) Stell Luna (7) Captain Yankee (2) Hwarang Ace
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Filly maidens here. (5) UNBRIDLED QUEEN debuted inauspiciously last December but has been a much different prospect since returning from nine months off in September, running 2nd and 4th, both at this distance and both in fair times, sitting midfield and running on. She draws nicely here and with a bit of improvement can win this. The favourite will be (2) SONHADOR. While she has mixed his form across four outings so far, she comes in having run 3rd in a good time over 1200M on October 22nd. She too steps up to 1300M for the first time and it may well suit. (7) SAEMANGEUMUIVISION has raced over this distance already and possesses the fastest time among those in the field who have. That was recorded two starts back when 5th and she enters with form consistent enough to suggest she can compete for at least a place here. (4) RUN AND GUN was 7th behind Unbridled Queen but she too has hinted at ability back up in trip today can go close. (1) HAVANA JANE another in the hunt.

Selections(5) Unbridled Queen (2) Sonhador (7) Saemanguivision (4) Run And Gun
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Not much to choose between the top two here to the extent that (3) SEONGSIL SONYEO and (9) WONDERFUL WORLD dead-heated with one another for 4th place at their respective latest starts at class and distance on October 24th. From the widest gate Seongsil Sonyeo found the rail and then ran on the best of the pair, so with a much better draw today we’ll just about side with her to get the better of things here. (6) CARIBBEAN DAY has tended to get a bit far back in his races so far before running on. He steps up to a mile for the first time and it is possible that it may suit. (1) GRAND CHUKJE offered very little across eight starts up ti mid-August. After a couple of months off though, he did hint at potentially being a bit better when 2nd in a trial at the end of October in a fair time. From a nice inside draw and a very soft race to return in, he has a chance to improve. (2) HOLLYWOOD QUEEN perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(3) Seongsil Sonyeo (9) Wonderful World (6) Caribbean Day (1) Grand Chukje
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

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

(3) INDIAN PARTY and (2) CHOEGANG LIGER came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other at class and distance on October 15th on what was for both of them their latest outing. Both are still maidens after thirty-five starts between them but both are regular place-getters. Today looks like the best chance for one of them to finally get that maiden victory and we will go for them to fill the quinella, and tentatively for Indian Party and Perovic to be the one to make the breakthrough. (6) TWO TWO LIME comes up in class having got her maiden win at start number five on October 8th when she made all over 1200M. She steps up in class distance too but can be on pace again and should be in this a long way. This three look head and shoulders above the rest although (4) ALPHA HEART has run competitive time at the distance and along with (8) CHOEGANG BEONJJEOK looks the most likely to challenge for the minors.

Selections(3) Indian Party (2) Choegang Liger (6) Two Two Lime (4) Alpha Heart
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(6) DOCTOR TAKE stepped up to this distance for the first time on October 29th and ran a very good 2nd place, having gone right back at the start before making up ground in the home straight. He comes up just the one kilo for that run and looks to be the one to beat. (7) QUEEN HARLEY got her maiden win at start number six on October 15th on what was her first try at this class and also her first go at a mile. She broke well that day before settling back in midfield and then proving too strong. Her racing style suggests that two turns may suit and with an apprentice still keeping the edge off the weight, she looks to have solid claims to be competitive here. (4) GOLDEN KAISER was favourite for that mile race on October 15th but didn’t get off to the greatest of starts and found himself a bit far back before running on well for 2nd. He gets another crack at Queen Harley here and it’s possible he could overturn the form. (1) WONDERFUL LADY continues to be solid competitor who while never really looking in danger of winning, rarely runs a bad race and can be in the money hunt again. (11) ACE FOUR TEN another who can go close.

Selections(6) Doctor Take (7) Queen Harley (4) Golden Kaiser (1) Wonderful Lady
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 11

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(5) ECOPIA was an also-ran in last month’s Luna Stakes Oaks trial and accordingly skips Sunday’s filly Classic to swim in the shallower waters of this class 4 affair. Two starts back she was a super winner over this distance at class 5 level in an excellent time and from a decent draw is likely to be on pace from the start and is the one to beat. (8) GREAT GOOD is a winner of three from nine so far and comes back up in trip following a good score over 1200M in an all-filly race on October 17th, when she settled right at the back and ran on extremely well. She was first-up that day following a seven-month layoff and she looks nicely in to run well again here. (2) BOLAVEN remains a bit of an unknown quantity having raced just the once when 4th back in July. He certainly looked the part when blitzing an October trial and surely has claims first-up here. (6) KINGS LANDING is very consistent and has proven capable of running the kind of times needed to be in the hunt here while (9) QUEEN MARVEL IJI is another who can go close in a competitive race.

Selections(5) Ecopia (8) Great Good (2) Bolaven (6) Kings Landing
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 7: Class 1 (2000M) Allowance / KRW 110 Million

(4) FANTASTIC MAN is an intriguing entry here. He is still at class 2 rating-wise, and has only raced once at that level, but his back-to-back wins in August and September over 1800M at class 3 level were impressive. He doesn’t know his rating though and there isn’t much to fear here so he can settle midfield and run on and win. (10) GREAT KING is the best horse in the race and while he again gives weight away, he ran well for 3rd over 1800M on his latest outing on October 8th. The draw won’t be a problem for him and he will be running on strong at the end as ever. (2) JUMBO BLADE is joint top-weight with Great King and he may benefit from having had three months off. He looked very well in a trial at the end of October and can put in a bold showing first-up. (6) SMART PRINCE will be running on well late on as ever and can aim for the money with Great King’s stablemate (1) ALPHAKING IJI another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Fantastic Man (10) Great King (2) Jumbo Blade (6) Smart Prince
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 10

Winner’s Man Denies Heat Yegam By Nose In See-Saw Korean Derby

In the end it didn’t disappoint as what was billed in advance as potentially the greatest Korean Derby so far, went down to the very last stride at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon when Winner’s Man denied Heat Yegam a shot at completing the Triple Crown, by the narrowest of possible margins.

On a weekend when racing fans were allowed into Seoul Racecourse for the first time in over a year Heat Yegam, the runaway winner of the KRA Cup Mile at Busan a month ago, was sent off as a slightly better than even-money favourite for the second jewel in the Crown, the Korean Derby (KOR G1).

Winner’s Man began as second-favourite but was slowly out of the gate for the 1800M Classic as Heat Yegam bounded into an early lead with a perennially keen – and badly drawn – Heungbaragi bounding across to join him. So began a topsy-turvy race which saw Heat Yegam and jockey You Hyun-myung a constant on the front but there was a constant shifting of fortunes behind.

Winner’s Man was ridden up towards the pace before fading and then finding a second wind, while Heungbaragi similarly fell away on the turn for home only to reappear in contention once more. With a furlong to run there were still six in it with Heat Yegam finally collared by Heungbaragi, with Mr. Indie not far behind on the rail and Winner’s Man, Chief Indy and outsider Choegang Game in the centre.

Just as it looked like Heat Yegam was beaten, he rallied and even retook the lead with just 50M to go as Heungbaragi faltered. But all the time Winner’s Man was closing and in the very final strides, Choi Si Dae got one last burst out of his charge to sweep past. It went to a photo-finish but there was no doubt; Winner’s Man had got it on the line.

Heungbaragi, just as in the KRA Cup Mile, was the big loser from the barrier draw but put in a big run to finish 3rd. Choegang Game was a revelation in 4th while Mr. Indie did nothing wrong in 5th.

For Winner’s Man [Musket Man – Winner’s Marine (Volponi)] it was an eighth win on his twelfth career start. Jockey Choi Si-dae, who picked up a substantial fine for his use of the whip in the closing stages, won his second Derby having partnered Yeongcheon Ace to victory in 2015. Trainer Choi Ki-hong, who has been licensed since 2004, won his first Group race of any description.

The brave Heat Yegam lost little in defeat on a dry and heavy track and will surely be back to fight another day. Whether that is in the final leg of the Triple Crown, the Minister’s Cup over 2000M back at Seoul on December 12th, remains to be seen. One thing is for sure though is that this year’s Classic crop certainly measures up. Winner’s Man won today, but the quest for ultimate supremacy in the three-year-old ranks goes on.

Korean Derby 2021 – Horse-By-Horse Preview

The second leg of the delayed 2021 Korean Triple Crown takes place at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon when eleven runners go to post for the Korean Derby (KOR G1). CLICK HERE FOR THE REGULAR RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW.

The top five placegetters from the first jewel in the Crown, the KRA Cup Mile at Busan a month ago, all return including Heat Yegam, the all the way winner of what was by some margin, the fastest Cup Mile on record.

Heat Yegam has drawn barrier five and will be hot favourite to score again but Heungbaragi, Chief Indy, Mr. Indie and Winner’s Man all return in a bid to prevent the Take Charge Indy colt from going one step closer to emulating Power Blade and sweeping the Triple Crown. Local racing media in Korea is confident they won’t, with twelve out of fifteen racing publications placing Heat Yegam on top.

Moon Hyung-chul, representing trainer Bang Dong-suk, said after the barrier draw on Thursday that Heat Yegam is ready. “It’s his first time traveling to another track to race but he’s adapted well, he works well, and we don’t need to do very much with him. (The Derby) is an extra furlong but that shouldn’t be a problem for him.”

Heungbaragi put in a huge race in the Cup Mile, overcoming barrier fifteen to run on strongly. Trainer Lee Joon-chel, who actually rode him in his first few races before taking up his trainer’s license this summer, laughed wryly when he drew the widest gate. “My foreman says he is in as good a shape as he has seen him. When he won at 1800M he led all the way and that won’t be easy to do but there are many ways to win a race and we will just have to see what happens on Sunday. I’m looking forward to it.”

Lee certainly knows about winning. In just forty-two starts since getting his license, he has already sent out eight winners.

Winner’s Man was sent off as second-favourite in the Cup Mile and tried matching Heat Yegam for speed early on, only to end up weakening for 5th. The Musket Man colt has though raced and won twice at the Derby distance of 1800M, whereas Heat Yegam goes further for a mile for the first time.

Kim Ji-min, representing trainer Choi Ki-hong, reckoned punters didn’t see the best of Winner’s Man at the KRA Cup Mile. “He has done well at 1800M before and while Heat Yegam was very good in the Cup Mile, I think Winner’s Man is going well now and we are looking forward to it. As for rivals: “Obviously Heat Yegam and Heungbaragi are very strong, but I was very impressed with Chief Indy at the Cup Mile, especially as he was first-up after a layoff; 3rd place was a really strong performance.”

The Korean Derby will be run over 1800M and is race 8 on Seoul’s Sunday card with a post time of 17:05 KST. Here is a full run-down of the field.

1. MR. INDIE [Indie Band – Candace Gold (Seeking The Gold)] – A winner of three from six including over this distance at class 4 level. In the KRA Cup Mile, he was ridden hard early to get a position settling on the fence in midfield. He stayed on the rails saving ground, into the straight and kept fighting in the straight to maintain a clear 4th in a strong run. The Wolsley stable is in fine form, Seo Seung-un stays aboard, and he can go close.

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Korea Derby Day 2021: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (November 7)

It’s Korean Derby day at last! The latest Derby in history goes to post at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon with race fans in attendance (attendance must be pre-booked using the My Card app – there is no walk-up admission). Heat Yegam won the KRA Cup Mile, the first leg of the Triple Crown, at Busan last month, and will be favourite again. A full horse-by-horse preview of the Derby will be up soon but in the meantime, here is the full race by race preview of the 10-race card at Seoul (10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (7 races from 11:10 to 16:40):

Heat Yegam won the KRA Cup Mile last month (Pic: KRA)

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

The juvenile maidens get us underway with five of the eleven racing for the first time. And it’s one of those debut-makers who is set to be favourite. (1) PINE FARM first trialed up in May in good style but didn’t make it to the track that time around. He requalified in mid-October, running fast time behind Moonhak Chief and from a good gate should be on pace from the start and can lead all the way. The big danger has some experience. That’s (7) RAON THE ARIA, who was anonymous in her trial but debuted well with a strong 4th p lace at this distance on October 2nd when she sat handy all the way. She won’t need to improve much to be right in this. (10) NO SMALL SUN was a decent 4th on what was her second start on October 10th and if she can continue to make progress here can go close. Returning to the debut-makers, (4) NAMSAN HORANGI impressed when winning an October trial in a fair time and has every chance of going well first-up. (2) P N S LIN didn’t do much wrong in his heat and has an outside chance of sneaking into the money.

Selections(1) Pine Farm (7) Raon The Aria (10) No Small Sun (4) Namsan Horangi
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 10

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

Maiden juveniles start the card at Busan with seven of the twelve racing for the very first time. There is some ability among the experienced ones though, so we will side with (5) MAHAMERU, who after an encouraging trial, ran 6th on debut in September in a fast time on an admittedly wet track. He should have come on for that run and Perovic climbing aboard is a plus. (6) GREAT CHEONGHO was a good 4th on debut just two weeks ago when prominent throughout. It was a fair time on a dry track, and he can go closer today. (7) KING SATURDAY is perhaps the standout of the first timers. While indifferent in his mandatory trial in September, he was sent through a voluntary one just last week and significantly improved, posting a fast time and leading for much of the way. So long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can go well. (3) PLAY THE INDY didn’t do much wrong in what was a slow trial and could also play a part. The wildcard is (12) ANASTASIA, who raced twice uncompetitively in summer but recently went through two trials, winning the latter.

Selections(5) Mahameru (6) Great Cheongho (7) King Saturday (3) Play The Indy
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A big field of maiden fillies and plenty look to have the potential to make the breakthrough. (14) GOLD KAISER is going to need to navigate her way from the widest gate, but if she can do that then she looks to have solid claims. Having won a September trial, she ran 3rd on debut over this distance in a fair time, having been handy early. If the draw is a concern, then (5) RUBY CAT is the one to be on. She has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 4th place last time out over 1300M. She can sit just off the pace here and it could be her day. (12) V QUEEN came home 5th in the same race in what was an uptick in form. She has a good finish on her so the draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can get even closer today. (3) SMART HIGH and (1) FLYING BARBIE are among others with placing potential.

Selections(14) Gold Kaiser (5) Ruby Cat (12) V Queen (3) Smart High
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 14

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (7) ANNIKA GIRL stepped up to this distance at her latest start and ran a fair 5th place in a reasonable time in what was a tougher race than this. She sat handy that day and ran on and in this company, has every chance of breaking through. (1) DARI TTEUNI is the only one to have won a race and then alone brings her into contention. The victory was in May, and she hasn’t looked like repeating, however, she did beat a couple of these on her way to 6th place over 1300M two starts back. (12) WORLD FLOWER stepped up to this distance on October 8th and came from off the pace to run a useful 6th place in a fair time and a repeat of that run would be competitive here. (14) BAEK SEOL QUEEN was disappointing at her latest start in August but had previously registered some decent efforts. She trialed up a couple of weeks ago looking well and may have benefitted from the twelve weeks off. (8) USEUNG GANGJA is another in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Annika Girl (1) Dari Tteuni (12) World Flower (14) Baek Seol Queen
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another big field and a competitive race. (9) ROAD ACE has been working towards a win with steady improvement over his three starts so far, all of them at 1000M and culminating in a 2nd place last time out in a good time. He steps up in trip for the first time but should be on pace and can win. The presence of Moon Se Young aboard (5) KOREA GIJEOK may make the Hansen gelding favourite. He’s scoreless following fifteen attempts but enters in good form with a 2nd and a 4th from his latest two appearances, both at today’s distance and coming from off the pace. He can go close again. (6) DOUBLE TAKE too comes in with recent form reading positively. She comes in off a last start 4th when settling midfield at this trip and Munro stays aboard today. (3) GEOSEN DOLPUNG steps up to this trip for the first time. He was an on-pace 3rd in a fair time over 1200M on his last outing in September and will be expected to show the way again here. (11) POSA POSA perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(9) Road Ace (5) Korea Gijeok (6) Double Take (3) Geosen Dolpung
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 13

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(7) VICTOR BASIUM is an intriguing entry here. He has only raced once, back in May, but he raced well, finishing in 4th place in a respectable time over the five furlongs. He trialed up smartly two weeks ago and in shallow waters here, has good claims first-up. (9) WONDERFUL REALTY comes out on top in plenty of indicators in this race. He the fastest finish on him as well as the fastest time at this distance. He comes in off a good class and distance 3rd place on October 1st and while the draw isn’t the best, he should be going close. (6) RAPIDO QUEEN has led both her latest starts at 1300M and 1400M before finishing back in the pack. The slight drop back in trip may be in her favour here and she should enter the calculations. (5) HAEUNDAE BLUE and (12) MYEONGSEONG CHARGE among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(7) Victor Basium (9) Wonderful Realty (6) Rapido Queen (5) Haeundae Blue
Next Best12, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

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

(2) JANGSAN LASER returned to make his second start a full nine months after his first and it proved successful as he came from midfield to score over 1200M on October 3rd. As a result, he comes up in class but neither that, nor the step up in trip should be a problem and he can make it two in a row here. The main danger is (5) BEOLMAL DAEJANG. He comes in having posted two excellent times at this distance in his latest two outings, which ended in 4th and a very close 2nd. He comes up slightly in the weights today but has very solid claims. (3) COOL PRINCESS comes up in class following a win at this distance on October 2nd. She will need to improve on that performance but has drawn very nicely to lead and can measure up. (4) FIGHTING NOW has plenty of class and distance experience and along with (11) GRAY CAT is another with at least placing chances.

Selections(2) Jangsan Laser (5) Beolmal Daejang (3) Cool Princess (4) Fighting Now
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Small field of fillies here and after a string of near-misses, (7) NEW LUX should be winning. Two starts back she ran 3rd at class and distance in a super time on an admittedly wet track, continuing her consistent run of form. At her latest she was 5th over 1800M. She likes to sit handy or midfield and should have too much for these at the business end of the race. (1) GOLD LUCK comes up to the mile for the first time. She has got caught a bit far back in a couple of her latest starts but from a good draw on the inside this time, coupled with the additional distance to play with, she may push the favourite close. (8) TAMNA HWANGHU came from well off the place for a slashing 4th at class and distance on October 15th. She mixes her form but if she gets up a head of steam in the straight, she can run a few of these down. (4) QUEEN OF HEARTS and (6) GREAT GO are others with money chances.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 6)

Seoul will race in front of punters for the first time in a year on Saturday. There are 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Attendance at the racecourse must be pre-booked using the My Card app and evidence of Covid-19 vaccination is required. Here are the previews:

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

As ever it’s the juvenile maidens up first with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. And it’s first-timer (7) NEMO PRINCESS, who is the stand out. She easily won her second trial on October 22nd and with Moon Se Young aboard, is set to be a warm favourite. (12) SKY SONG trialed up well beating a couple of these in the process in a fair time. He settled back in midfield and ran on so the wide gate may not be too disadvantageous and he can go well first-up. (1) PURGE DAY debuted over 1200M finishing back in the pack. He previously trialed well and from the inside gate should be improving for that run. (9) ONE MORE RUSH ran pleasingly enough on debut, well back behind a good winner but posting a fair time and should have some natural improvement here. Returning to the debut-makers, (11) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER looks next best having led her trial early and finishing at her own pace when passed by Munhak Chief.

Selections(7) Nemo Princess (12) Sky Song (1) Purge Day (9) One More Rush
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(8) AMAZON KING has run well on both starts so far and was an improved 2nd at start number two in a fast race behind a good winner over 1000M on October 17th. He has been on-pace in both starts so far and the additional furlong shouldn’t pose a problem here. The principle danger is (3) ORGALIM, who significantly improved at his second start on October 2nd when he sat handy throughout, ultimately finishing 3rd in a good time at this distance. He draws well today and will surely be in the finish. (2) TES GO DAEBO won a trial before finishing 4th on debut over 1000M on October 16th. He went right back before running on well and may appreciate the extended trip today. (4) MEOTJIN GIROK and (10) GEUMSEONG CROWN are among others with placing hopes.

Selections(8) Amazon King (3) Orgalim (2) Tes Go Daebo (4) Meotjin Girok
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

One of the weakest maidens in some time but something has to win. On the grounds of having done least wrong so far, we’ll go with (1) MORNING PEARL. She’s raced twice so far, both at 1000M and both times she has made up good ground in the closing stages. She comes up in trip today, draws well and can win. (2) THUNDER HORSE is the only one in the field to have a top-three finish to his name, and that was recorded more than a year ago. That and his last start 4th over 1700M may be enough to make him favourite here and he has as good a chance as any. (12) WONDERFUL HAWAII has run consistent times and while they haven’t necessarily been fast, they look competitive here and she can run into at least a place. (11) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN races for the first time since January and having looked well when 3rd in a trial in a fair time a month ago, can have claims first-up. (5) MUNHAK FOREST another who can run into a place here.

Selections(1) Morning Pearl (2) Thunder Horse (12) Wonderful Hawaii (11) Sojunghan Dangsin
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Big field here but (7) SANGSEUNG POWER looks ready to win. She comes up in trip following back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1300M, both times settling midfield and finishing off well. She should be able to sit handy here and be too strong late on. (14) SMART POWER has been consistent across four starts so far and comes in following a 4th place over this distance on October 2nd. He is the only previous winner in the race and despite the wide draw, he has every chance of going close here, but may need a bit of luck to find a position early. (1) SINUI HANSU comes back in trip following a good 3rd place over 1700M on October 10th when he ran in mid-division most of the way around before finishing off well. He has beaten a few of today’s rivals across his latest couple of starts and should be beating plenty again. (12) RUNNING NUMBER ONE similarly drops back in trip, in his case following 2nd place over 1700M three weeks ago. That was an uptick on recent form and he can maintain that momentum with a bold showing here. (13) GRAND STAR has the fastest time among these at the distance and could make for an interesting outsider.

Selections(7) Sangseung Power (14) Smart Power (1) Sinui Hansu (12) Running Number One
Next Best13, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 11, 14

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

(12) BYEOLUI SUNGAN comes up in class following three near-misses. On all three occasions, he has gone down to good horses though and has run well, recording good times. Her running style so far has shown she can run on so neither the wide draw or the slight step up in trip should be to her detriment and she can win. To do that she will need to pass (2) COWBOY KING. He sat handy and then ran on for a good win on debut over 1000M back on September 18th. He is up in both class and distance here but draws nicely to be on pace and could maintain his 100% record. (9) K N UNDERKING comes up in class having won at this distance at start number two on October 3rd. He sat midfield and ran on strongly that day and should measure up in this company. As for those with experience at this level, (5) COWBOY TANGO comes back in trip after a decent 4th on a very wet track over 1400M a month ago and along with (7) HWANGGEUM POWER, looks a place line here.

Selections(12) Byeolui Sungan (2) Cowboy King (9) K N Underking (5) Cowboy Tango
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (8) GREEN FEELSTAR has finished in the top five in all six of her outings to date, with her one win coming at this distance. She comes up in class following a close 2nd at this distance on November 3rd but looks well in here and sit behind the early speed and run on strong. (1) GUEOKMAAL has consistently run fast times at this distance and is experienced at this class. She comes in following a good 4th place at this distance in a slightly tougher race than this a month ago and from a great draw should go close. (6) HANGANG MAGIC swept home from off the pace to win smartly over 1000M at start number two on October 9th. She comes up in class and in distance but neither should be an issue and she has the potential to back up with another win. (3) BLACK SILVER comes slightly back in trip and significantly down in weight from her latest start what with an apprentice on board. She has a runner-up finish to her name at class and distance and should be in the placing frame here. (11) HWA SSI BYEOK another with money claims.

Selections(8) Green Feelstar (1) Gueokmaal (6) Hangang Magic (3) Black Silver
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 11

Seoul Race 7: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(8) LUISA beat four of these when coming from just off the pace to win at class and distance on October 9th. That was her third win but she has never run worse than 5th in fourteen starts so far. She comes up slightly in the weights here but looks very much the one to beat. (1) BEST LINE got closest to Luisa in that October race having led until midway down the home straight and holding on for 2nd. She too comes up in the weights but draws very nicely and can be a danger again. (12) DAEJIUI YEOIN won her first five in a row but while she has stalled a little since reaching this class, she hasn’t been running badly with a 4th and a 3rd in fast times. The draw does her no favours today but a return to form shouldn’t be ruled out. (10) JANGSAN BADA returned from six months out to run a good 4th place over 1800M three weeks ago. He should have come on for that run and is in the hunt today. (11) WHIZ MOMENT races for the first time since June and looked well when winning an October trial.

Selections(8) Luisa (1) Best Line (12) Daejiui Yeoin (10) Jangsan Bada
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start4, 8, 11, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(5) MIGHTY POP came close at his latest start when beaten by Heungrok Daebu at class and distance on October 2nd. That was his first go around two turns after posting fast times at 1400M and it seemed to suit well. He is joint-top weight here but is the one to beat. Clear second choice is (10) NAMSAN SIDAE. A winner of two from five he has never finished any worse than 3rd and won gate to wire over 1400M last start. He steps up to this trip for the first time today but there is no reason why it won’t suit and he has solid claims. (12) LIONETTE ran 5th behind Mighty Pop on October 2nd and while she draws the widest gate here, she can be running on strong at the business end and should be in the placing frame. So too (9) JEONGSANG KINGDOM, who always comes from way back and will benefit from Alan Munro aboard today. (4) UNCLE BELL, who pinched an excellent 3rd place under an enterprising ride at his latest start could again be in the hunt for some minor money.

Selections(5) Mighty Pop (10) Namsan Sidae (12) Lionette (9) Jeongsang Kingdom
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 10, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(12) ACE HAMSEONG was beaten into 3rd on his latest start which came over 1700M just two weeks ago when he went right back and ran on strongly. He comes back up slightly in trip today and that may be what he needs to return to the winner’s circle. (7) A. P. PATEK comes in off a strong 3rd place at 1700M on October 3rd. He can mix his form and can find himself getting a bit far back but he looks to have solid claims here. (11) STAR BLADE had a poor day at the office on his latest at his latest start behind A. P. Patek but is perhaps worth another chance based on his class and distance runner-up finish two starts back as well as his earlier class 5 win. He does tend to go best when on pace though so the draw is not helpful. (10) DREAM FASHION comes up in class after his second class 5 win at the distance on September 18th. He is nicely weighted here and his times should measure up at this class. (4) MANSE among others in the minor money frame.

Selections(12) Ace Hamseong (7) A. P. Patek (11) Star Blade (10) Dream Fashion
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 10: Class 1 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million

(1) WINNER GOLD is giving away at least a full 6kg to everything in this field but that is because he is rated a full twenty points higher than anything else. He comes in following back-to-back 4th place finishes in tougher company than this over 1800M and back at one-turn today can return to the winner’s circle here. (10) CHEONGDAM JEWANG possesses a super time at this distance and ran well for 4th place behind Eoma Eoma at it back in September. He doesn’t need to lead so the draw shouldn’t matter and he should be a big danger here. (8) CUPID GUY enters off a great 2nd place in a fast time at class and distance behind the excellent filly Raon First on October 17th. He made up great ground late that day and will be aiming to do the same here. (3) MIGHTY GO and (9) PENETRO among those in the minor money hunt

Selections(1) Winner Gold (10) Cheongdam Jewang (8) Cupid Guy (3) Mighty Go
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Area Locations Reopen To Punters – Busan Friday Race-By-Race Preview (November 5)

Remember remember the 5th of November, because it is the day that customers are finally permitted to re-enter Seoul Racecourse as well as the Seoul and Gyeonggi Province OCB locations after almost two years of constant closure. Attendance will initially be capped at 50% of indoor capacity and must still be pre-booked using the My Card app. Further, all punters are required to provide proof of being “fully vaccinated” against Covid-19 for a minimum of fourteen days prior to the race meeting.

That means that Seoul can welcome just over 11,000 punters to the racecourse on each race day. Taking all OCBs into account, a total of 47,000 across the country will be able to attend a racecourse or an OCB this weekend. Last week, when only Busan Racecourse and a small number of southern OCBs were open, only 5,700 were able to be accommodated.

To save time and repeated hassle on every race day, punters are able to pre-register their vaccines and have it linked to their My Card app. The only non-vaccinated customers permitted are those with a written medical exemption from a Doctor and punters who are in that category will need to provide a negative PCR test from within 48 hours of the race meeting in question. This is in line with the policies adopted by the Korea Baseball Organization for its post-season matches which began earlier this week.

Catering will be somewhat limited. The first meeting the Seoul locations will be open for is Busan’s Friday card which involves 7 races from 12:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (8) DAEJI SPECIAL debuted on July 16th running 5th over this distance in what has turned out to be a hot race with Yeonggwanguilegend, who has since won two Listed Juvenile races, running 2nd. The time was good on a dry track and while he could only manage 7th on his return over 1200M in September, that’s probably enough to warrant making him top pick here. (3) FANTASTIC MAGIC has run 5th in both starts so far, both of them at this distance. She draws well again and can continue to improve here. (11) GOLDEN POWER came from off the pace to run 3rd on debut at this distance on September 3rd before stepping up to 1400M and running 5th when sat handy to the pace on October 8th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can be main danger. (10) B.K. HANA ran 5th on debut before finishing back down the field in the Rookie Stakes. Among more amenable company, she should be better today. Among the debut-makers. (1) BEOLMAUI STAR has the best chance of making an impact first-up following a decent showing in his trial.

Selections(8) Daeji Special (3) Fantastic Magic (11) Golden Power (10) B.K. Hana
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

While it’s fair to say that (1) HOT PLAY has mixed his form across four starts so far, he’s hard to go past here. He comes up 4kg from his 3rd place over this distance on October 15th when he was handy throughout but he draws much better here and should really be leading from gate to wire. (3) NEW RUBY actually beat Hot Play two starts back as the pair ran 3rd and 4th over 1000M and therefore shapes as the logical main rival here. She has tended to get a bit too far back in her races, but she does run on and from a good draw may be ridden a little closer this time. With an apprentice aboard, (5) CHEONHA NUMBER ONE comes down a full 4kg in the weights on recent starts. Back in August he ran 3rd over this distance and is capable of running competitive times. He is inconsistent but in the frame here. (8) DOCTOR CANDY and (9) TAEPUNGI are others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Hot Play (3) New Ruby (5) Cheonha Number One (8) Doctor Candy
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another hot favourite here who it will be hard to oppose. (1) NAMDO ILDEUNG beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place at this distance on October 3rd when, from the same barrier as today, she was up with the pace throughout and ran on well in a decent time. A similar performance today, in what is a weaker race, and she will be very hard to beat. More than half the field is partnered by apprentice jockeys so there are plenty claims being utilized. (2) STORM BROWN comes down 3kg in the weights from when he was 9th behind Namdo Ildeung at his latest start. He does have a 3rd place to his name and should be aiming to go close here. No weight claim for Djordje Perovic on (7) DONGBU STAR but he does have some claims to go better than last time, when he too was beaten by Namdo Ildeung. That was his first try at a mile and only his fourth in total and he may improve. (8) ADELE CROWN and (9) OMEGA GIRL are others that may compete in a race that offers little in the way of convincing form.

Selections(1) Namdo Ildeung (2) Storm Brown (7) Dongbu Star (8) Adele Crown
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 10, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies only here and another favourite that is hard to oppose. (2) THE FIRST FACTOR has won just once of thirteen so far but has been working towards another in recent starts with consecutive 3rd place from her latest two. She has been on pace both times, draws very nicely here and should have far too much. (1) DONGBANUI SIJAK has gone faster than The First Factor at this distance, something she achieved when winning at this class three starts back on September 10th. She then ran 3rd at 1400M before finishing well back behind The First Factor two weeks ago. She comes up in weight but draws much better and can go close. (8) ECHO LADY has done well at this distance so far with a 4th and a 5th as well as competitive times in her record. She carries a light weight under an apprentice and should be in the placing frame. (5) HAEUNDAE BADA and (7) HAMAN BANGEOSAN others in the hunt.

Selections(2) The First Factor (1) Dongbanui Sijak (8) Echo Lady (5) Haeundae Bada
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

It’s becoming quite a theme of the day but there is another hot favourite here. (8) SPEED MATCH took six goes to get his maiden win but he evidently quite enjoyed it as he promptly followed up with another. Both were at 1400M with the first being an all the way romp, while the second saw him come from behind the speed. Both winning times were fast and while he is up in class today, he should make it three in a row. (10) YEONGWON POWER comes up in class but back in trip following a good score from off the pace over 1800M on October 10th. The wide draw should be no problem and he comes down in the weights. He can measure up in this company. (4) HAPPY WITCH on the other hand comes up to this trip for the first time. It may well suit as she has been doing her best work late and Perovic climbing aboard can’t hurt her chances either. (2) SUNLIGHT BOY has won at this distance at class 5 level and is rarely far away. He’ll sit handy from a good barrier and can be a danger. (3) ALPHA AGAIN among several others with placing claims.

Selections(8) Speed Match (10) Yeongwon Power (4) Happy Witch (2) Sunlight Boy
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 11

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

Competitive race. (3) AMOR FATI has consistently run fast times at this distance including in his latest two when 2nd and then 6th at this class. He gets a much better draw today than in either of those outings and with a good start, that could be enough to tip things in his favour. The big danger is (11) TIZ HEARTED. The filly has shown improvement over three starts to date, culminating with a 2nd place at class and distance on August 29th when she led almost all the way, getting passed in the closing stages. She has had a couple of months of since and while the draw isn’t ideal, she has a real chance. (6) ACE BOOM looks quite nicely in here. She comes back in trip following a nice 3rd place a couple of weeks ago over 1400M when she led early and could sneak a place again. (2) WINNING POST and (12) MAN OF THE WORLD are others who can compete for at least places.

Selections(3) Amor Fati (11) Tiz Hearted (6) Ace Boom (2) Winning Post
Next Best12, 1
Fast Start3, 7, 10, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 2 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 90 Million

(7) B.K JOHN snapped a streak of four consecutive runner-up finishes to win a fast race over this distance at class 3 level just two weeks ago. He comes up in class here but down in the weights and his promotion to this level is, if anything, overdue. He can win again. The big danger is (10) GEUMA MYSTIC. Two starts back he beat several of these on his first crack at this class when running 2nd to the very good Barbarian and this distance before dropping back to 1400M and finishing 3rd in a fast time in September. He does come up a little on the weights on both of those performances but the wide draw isn’t too much of a concern and he should be right in this. (2) GYEONGJUUI DUREBAK surprised plenty when winning at class and distance two starts back and then ran a useful 5th on reappearance two weeks ago. She can continue her run of form by competing for a place here. (11) DIAMOND MARINE and (12) MALIBU BYEOL are other dangers in a competitive finale.

Selections(7) B.K John (10) Geuma Mystic (2) Gyeongjuui Durebak (11) Diamond Marine
Next Best12, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 11

Yeonggwanguilegend, Aspen Taeyang Land Juvenile Prizes On K-Breeders’ Cup Trail

The race to become Champion Juvenile took a big step towards its big decider in the Korean Breeders’ Cup in December as Yeongwanguilegend backed up his Areumdaun Jilju Stakes win by claiming the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup at Busan on Sunday afternoon. Half an hour later, Aspen Taeyang announced his arrival on the two-year-old scene with a hard-fought victory in Seoul’s NACF Chairman’s Trophy.

Yeonggwanguilegend was the only runner who participated in the Areumdaun on October 3rd to take his place in the Gimhae Mayor’s starting gate and therefore the only one to compete in all three of Busan’s prep races for the Breeder’s Cup, having also run in September’s Rookie Stakes. Several who ran in that race did return, but it was Yeonggwanguilegend who was sent off as the favourite.

Djordje Perovic, who rode Yeonggwanguilegend in the Areumdaun, got on to Man Of The Year, so Franco Da Silva climbed aboard the favourite and immediately had Yeonggwanguilegend sit handy to the lead being set by Juvenile Series newcomer Doctor Caesar and the filly Adele Rosario, 2nd in the Busan Rookie Stakes.

Having set a punishing early pace, Doctor Caesar led until the middle of the straight when, with Adele Roasrio already done, Yeonggwanguilegend took command and Da Silva’s mount had enough in reserve to see off the late challenge of Perovic and Man Of The Year, the margin of victory just under a length on the line.

Yeonggwanguilegend [Concord Point-Perfect Scip (Scipion)] moves on to three wins from five starts and will head to the Breeders’ Cup race among the top line of favourites. For Franco Da Silva, who is closing in on 250 Korean winners and won the Korean Derby in 2018 on Ecton Blade, it was a welcome return to the big race winner’s circle. With the Breeders’ Cup being run at 1400M though, Perovic, who won the Derby last year on Save The World, may be thinking his and Man Of The Year’s day is yet to come.

Seoul’s third prep race for the Breeders’ Cup race saw Aspen Taeyang, who participated in neither the capital track’s Rookie Stakes nor Munhwa Ilbo Cup but arrived a perfect two for two, maintain his unbeaten start to his career.

With Rookie Stakes and Munhwa Ilbo winner Complete Value absent, Aspen Taeyang was sent off as hot favourite in a small field of eight in the NACF Chairman’s Trophy. He was made to work hard though as Seungbusa, 3rd in the Rookie Stakes, got onto Aspen Taeyang’s shoulder and struck the front for a time from a furlong and a half out.

With just 100M to go, Moon Se Young roused another effort out of Aspen Taeyang, who retook the lead and then held off the late challenge of the fast-finishing Double Edge, the first three crossing the line with just half a length between them.

Aspen Taeyang [With Distinction – Aspen Light (Bernardini)] now has three wins from three starts, making him, along with Complete Value, who hasn’t been in work since his Munhwa Ilbo win one of only two of the leading juveniles to remain unbeaten.

The Korean Breeders’ Cup race to determine champion juvenile will take place over seven furlongs at Busan Racecourse on Sunday December 5th. Next weekend, attention shifts back to the three-year-old division with the Korean Derby, the second leg of the 2021 Korea Triple Crown, at Seoul on Sunday afternoon with Heat Yegam, the impressive KRA Cup Mile winner, set to be the favourite.

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 31)

Juveniles take centre-stage at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday afternoons with the running of the Gwacheon and Gimhae Mayor’s Cups. There are 9 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:10 to 17:30. Here are the previews:

Could it really be the last day behind closed doors?

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

Juvenile maidens get us underway with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) REMARKABLE is set to be favourite though. He ran 2nd in a good time on debut over this distance on September 18th before being tried in the valuable Munhwa Ilbo Cup for his second start at 1200M on October 3rd. From a wide draw he never really got going, finishing 6th of nine on the day but dropping back here in shallower waters, drawing well and getting Moon Se-young on his back, there is plenty to like about him. (3) DREAM SPEED has raced twice before, improving in her second outing, when she led at this distance, ultimately finishing 4th in a decent time. She should have made more progress for that and can continue to improve here.  (1) GIANT KILLING ran 3rd on debut on August 22nd, settling midfield and running on. He comes in fresh after ten weeks off and can improve on that here. Among the first-time starters, (7) WONPYEONG GWANGYA was the fastest in trials and can go well first-up.

Selections(4) Remarkable (3) Dream Speed (12) Janggun Byeol (3) Dream Speed
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) NEW STAR YEONGCHEON comes in off two strong showing at 1200M, racing on pace and finishing 3rd and 4th, the latter time having come out of gate twelve. He draws the inside here and while he steps up in trip for the first time, he won’t need to improve much to win this. (5) K N TEUKGEUP also comes up in trip. He has mixed his form across six starts so far but has a 3rd place to his name and generally finishes off well. He gets a good draw and with Antonio Da Silva in the saddle can be aiming for a career best finish. (2) BIG ENERGY has been doing his best work late on in his latest two starts, both times running on strong for 4th over 1200M. The additional half furlong may well be what he needs to get even closer today. (8) SEMYEONG NARAE is the only one in the field to have a runner-up finish in her record and she comes in after beating a couple of these on her way to a fair 6th place at 1200M last start. She also has experience at 1400M which may be of benefit here. (9) MASEONG CHEONHA comes in having scored an on-pace 3rd at his latest start on September 4th and is another in the hunt although he will need a good start from an unfavourable gate.

Selections(1) New Star Yeongcheon (5) K N Teukgeup (2) Big Energy (8) Semyeong Narae
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A tricky race with two standouts. (5) ONE JI is already a winner having struck at class 6 level two starts back when leading all the way at this distance. He then ran a solid 3rd place at this class and distance on September 19th. He is well drawn here, and he could well get to the lead and win again. The main danger is the up in class but sure to measure up (3) YUKWAEHAN SEONTAEK. He has a 3rd, and two runner-up finishes from three starts so far, all of them over 1000M. He has run on-pace all three times and should be able to do the same here from a great draw. He has winning claims. (6) CRAZY TANK comes up in class having broken through at start number five over this distance on September 4th. He was second-up into a comeback after a few months out and could well have progressed further. He likes to be on pace, but can may settle handy and run on here. (11) FASHIONED PASSION has developed a bit of a habit of getting a bit far back in her races. The wider draw may actually help here as she can avoid traffic problems and she certainly has plenty late speed. (4) BIG RED among others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) One Ji (3) Yukwaehan Seontaek (6) Crazy Tank (11) Fashioned Passion
Next Best4, 12
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (1) GREEN SPEED looks the one to beat. He has run 3rd and 4th in two starts so far, both of them at 1000M, finishing off strong both times. He steps up in trip to 1200M for the first time and it may well suit. (11) WINNER FALCON is a debut-maker sporting the Yoshida colours. The Smart Falcon fill is a late-starter at four-years-old but trialed very competently in a decent time and looks set to make a positive first race start here. (7) CHEONGMA POWER has certainly mixed his form across four starts so far but has run well twice at this trip including his latest start when he was 2nd having been handy throughout. He can settle just behind the early speed here and be a danger at the business end again. (5) MONGTTANG was an improved 4th on his third career start on October 3rd and his first at this distance. The jockey/trainer combination will make plenty take note. First-timer (12) CHOEGANG MIJIGAE another in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Green Speed (11) Winner Falcon (7) Cheongma Power (5) Mongttang
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Seoul Race 4: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) SPOT FLATTER comes back into shallower waters following an unsuccessful tilt at the KRA Cup Mile, the first leg of the Triple Crown, at Busan three weeks ago where he tried to sit behind an extremely hot pace but got overwhelmed, although he still finished with an extremely creditable time. How much that took out of him is a valid question but if he picks up his class 4 form where he left off, winning here on August 14th, then has every chance. (9) LAST BOSS is up in class following a good win over this distance on October 2nd. The time he recorded certainly measures up at this class and Moon Se-young taking the mount won’t harm his chances. (10) TIZ BLACK comes up in class having won his latest two, both at 1200M, by narrow margins. That takes him to three from six in total and he steps up in trip here with solid claims to make it three in a row. The draw is not ideal, but he can go close. Surely lightning doesn’t strike three times in a row with (5) CHEONJI POKPUNG. Twice in a row he has been unfancied yet swept home late to score over 1300M. He is up in class and in distance, but significantly down in weight and warrants some – perhaps reluctant -respect. (2) ULTRA KING another who is up in class today but comes down hugely in weight and draws well.

Selections(4) Spot Flatter (9) Last Boss (10) Tiz Black (5) Cheonji Pokpung
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(10) LANE KILLER has run on very strong for two 3rd place finishes and a 4th in three stats so far, each time making up good ground late. He steps up to a mile for the first time and his racing pattern, suggests that it will suit and that the draw won’t matter. The step up may suit (8) OLD CHEONHA too. He returned to action following six months out on October 17th but didn’t really get into the race finishing down the field. He should have benefited from that though and can improve today. (7) CHEONGMA YEONGUNG ran an improved 3rd over 1200M on his latest start three weeks ago. He has tended to get well back in his races before running on and the additional distance to play with here can suit. (12) SINBIHAN GANGJA is the only one in the race to have a runner-up finish to his name, which came at this distance three starts back and he should be in the placing frame here. (6) TEN TEN QUEEN has the fastest time among the four who have tackled the mile before and she too can have placing aims.

Selections(10) Lane Killer (8) Old Cheonha (7) Cheongma Yeongung (12) Sinbihan Gangja
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(3) GOLDEN BADGE is yet to score in eleven attempts buy has been consistently close and took to this distance well when stepped up at her latest start back in August when she ran 2nd to promising three-year-old Royal Road. This is her first start since then, but a top jockey is engaged and from a good draw, she can sit handy and run on strong. (5) REDBACK returned from almost six months out to run 3rd behind Last Boss over 1400M on October 2nd. He settled midfield and ran on strong and can step up to two turns with confidence that it will suit. He still looks to have plenty more development in him and has strong claims here. (7) TANK SOCKS has been at this class for a long time, picking up a win at 1200M but she too steps up to this distance for the first time today. She has been running consistent times over 1400M in her latest three appearances and there is no reason why she can’t be in the mix here. It’s a similar story with (6) HEUKRYONG GAMU, who comes in with the fastest average time for the final furlong of all of these. He made up excellent ground late on over 1400M to go from almost last to 4th and is another for who the step up in trip may suit. (4) RUN RUN RUN struggled on his first try at this distance in September but can be given another chance here.

Selections(3) Golden Badge (5) Redback (7) Tank Socks (6) Heukryong Gamu
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 10
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