Racing Previews

Sunday Seoul & Yeongcheon: Race-By-Race Preview (November 8)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 17:55) and at Yeongcheon (6 races from 12:45 to 16:30). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens. After a good trial, (5) SAMJEONG RACE was a fair 2nd on debut, striking the front briefly close to home before going down by half a length. He can come on for that run on here and go one better. (3) FIRE TIGER was less impressive in his trial but did nothing wrong on his first trip to the race, also finishing 2nd over this distance, in his case on October 3rd and just beaten a neck. The time wasn’t quick, but he draws well to be on pace here and he has every chance. (10) WILD PITCH came from a long way back to run 5th on debut on October 11th and can get closer today. (2) GWANAKSAN JUMP and (8) SLING SMILE others who should be in the mix.

Selections(5) Samjeong Race (3) Fire Tiger (10) Wild Pitch (2) Gwanaksan Jump
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) RAON THE RIPON has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over 1200M on October 4th when handy throughout and beaten just half a length. The slight step up in trip can suit and he can win this. (1) SMART GRAND has been getting closer recently with a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two at 1400M and 1700M. Andre rode him last time and stays on today and he can sit behind the leaders and finish well. (9) PASA ACE has placed twice over this distance already and Franco climbing on for the first time catches the eye. He can be in the finish. (2) TOO BIRD HIT and (3) GRAND POKPUNG are the other main contenders.

Selections(7) Raon The Ripon (1) Smart Grand (9) Pasa Ace (2) Too Bird Hit
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) FOREVER HIT debuted around this time last year and recorded a 3rd and 4th but then didn’t reappear until this September 5th when she finished 4th over 1300M. She improved to 2nd in a filly only maiden on October 11th, showing close to the pace throughout and third-up here she should be nice and fit and will be favourite to make her breakthrough. It’s not a strong set of opponents. (8) COMPLETE TURBO returns for the first time since finishing 5th on debut all the way back in January. He looked well enough when 3rd in an October trial and has every chance of going well first up again. (4) STAR PLAY has a 2nd on his record and overcame a slow start to run 5th last time out. That’s enough to have him in the numbers here. (5) ROAD TO PERFECT and (7) MIGHTY POINT others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(10) Forever Hit (8) Complete Turbo (4) Star Play (5) Road To Perfect
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start5, 9, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

It’s hard to go past (3) G B ACE. He got his maiden win at start three over 1200M on September 6th when on pace throughout and then finished 4th on his first try at this class on October 3rd, beaten less than four-lengths when much further back than usual. Expect him to be back on the speed today, and he should win. (5) HAKSAN SWORD needs a line through his latest when luckless and beaten early. Instead, we’ll go on his close 2nd at this class over 1300M on September 13th on which form puts him in with claims here. (2) EXCALIBUR is up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes in contrasting styles. Both were at this distance, and the weight drop should allow him to be competitive in this company. (6) POWER BEST and (8) KARA K are the other main chances.

Selections(3) G B Ace (5) Haksan Sword (2) Excalibur (6) Power Best
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

Yeongcheon Race 1: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Weak opener at Yeongcheon. (3) TRIPLE J did nothing on his first visit here in early October but returned two weeks later to run 4th at 1300M. It wasn’t a great effort as he was beaten almost five-lengths, but he has won over this trip, and the paucity of opposition means it is enough to make him a strong favourite. Nothing else can be recommended with much confidence. (4) ROAD TO FIGHTER got a long way back from a wide draw on his first visit here on October 11th and with a better draw should go better. (2) UNIJOA similarly found himself stuck in traffic a long way back in the same race and better drawn and in this smaller field, can be more comfortable. (7) WORLD GOAT and (6) REMENT perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(3) Triple J (4) Road To Fighter (2) Unijoa (7) World Goat
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 7)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener. (5) WILD CAVIAR won her trial and then ran 3rd on debut over this distance on October 4th, settling handy and running on. Kozzi gets on this time and she has every chance. (7) SILVER WAVE led her debut on September 19th, ultimately finishing 2nd, beaten a length and a quarter. She should be on pace again and will probably start as the favourite. (4) HAENGUN STAR has raced twice, running 4th on debut in August over this trip and then 2nd, five-lengths behind the winner, over 1200M at start two on October 5th. Third-up she can have a fitness edge here, and she can be in the finish. Solitary debut-maker (6) DANAEUN QUEEN was fast when 2nd in her trial. It was back in July so match-fitness must be taken on trust but on that evidence, she has a chance first-up. (8) RAON THE SKY, 4th behind Wild Caviar on debut, is another in the frame.

Selections(5) Wild Caviar (7) Silver Wave (4) Haengun Star (6) Danaeun Queen
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) BLITZ CARA was 4th of nine in Listed juvenile company two starts back and then ran 2nd when favourite over 1300M on October 10th, beaten twelve-lengths by Eco Bolt. He has a fine finish on him so the slight step up in trip can be in his favour and assuming there are no bolts from the blue this time, he is the one to beat. (4) WONDERFUL CATHY is yet to finish in the top two after sixteen attempts, but she comes in off her joint best to fate finish in 3rd over this distance on October 10th. Both her 3rd places have come over this distance and with Luis staying on she can match or even better it here. (8) BLUE HORIZON was a much-improved 2nd last time out on October 18th. It was a slow race, but she is a placing chance again. (2) CHEONMAUI HANSEONG and (1) GOLDEN WARRIOR are others to consider.

Selections(3) Blitz Cara (4) Wonderful Cathy (8) Blue Horizon (2) Cheonmaui Hanseong
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) MYEONG POWERFUL has made progress across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over 1400M on October 3rd when coming form off the pace and beating a couple of today’s rivals. His running style suggests the two-turns should suit, and he can go one better today. (10) SINCHEON HEART has taken well to this distance finishing between 2nd and 4th on all four tries at it to date. She likes to be on pace so she is drawn a touch wider than ideal, but she should be there or thereabouts again. (2) GEUMSEONG BULPAE was 4th behind Myeong Powerful on October 3rd. He already has a 3rd place to his name over this distance and can be in the finish again. (6) JISAN FOREVER and (4) BROWN SUGAR other place chances.

Selections(9) Myeong Powerful (10) Sincheon Heart (2) Geumseong Bulpae (6) Jisan Forever
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) SENNA K has finished 3rd in both her starts so far, at 1000M and 1200M, the latter on October 5th when close to the pace throughout. She comes up in trip again and in this company, she should be making her breakthrough. (5) UNICORN PRINCE trialed a couple of times as two-year-old but never made it to the track. He finally debuted over 1200M on October 24th, settling midfield and running for 4th, finishing off pleasingly. He should have derived benefit from that run and can get closer today at a furlong further. (6) INTO THE GALAXY was an improved 3rd at start three over 1200M on October 3rd. He too has been doing his best work late and appreciate the trip increase. (3) ROAD TO SPEAR and (4) WONDERFUL TUNE UP are others who can compete for the minors.

Selections(9) Senna K (5) Unicorn Prince (6) Into The Galaxy (3) Road To Spear
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 6)

There is a 10-race card at Busan this Friday between 10.45 and 17.55 and it is arguably the most competitive of the weekend. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. (2) FLY SKY took four tries to qualify but looked competent in his latest two. Running 2nd in a heat in August and then winning one on September 17th when leading all the way and stopping the clock in a good time. From a good draw, if he can bring that form to the races, he is a big chance first-up. After a good trial, (4) TOHAMSAN STAR didn’t show much on debut when drawn in the widest gate over 1200M. He gets a much better draw this time and can have come on for that run. (11) TRIPLE GANGJA was a fair 5th on debut all the way back in July and he can be a factor today. (8) CUPID GOLD and (10) B.K AXLE can potentially improve.

Selections(2) Fly Sky (4) Tohamsan Star (11) Triple Gangja (8) Cupid Gold
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

This race has divided and both divisions are pretty good. (3) YONGBI SHARK stepped up to this class on October 2nd and ran 2nd over this distance, coming from well off the pace. He has won over this trip as recently as August, and while he is up 2kg in weight, he has an excellent chance today, probably widen forward a bit earlier, like he was when he won. (7) BEST TIGER has won his latest three, all over 1400M when racing handy, most recently at class 5 level on October 4th. There are caveats. Two starts back he was second across the line but awarded the race in the stewards’ room and last time out, he prevailed by just a nose. He is up in class without a weight drop and up in trip as well, but he can be competitive again. (6) KING BLACK gets a 2kg weight swing from when he was 4th to Yongbi Shark’s 2nd in that October 2nd race and with less than a length to make up, should be firmly in this. (1) TTANBONG QUEEN and the up in class (2) DOCTOR PUNCH are others in the frame.

Selections(3) Yongbi Shark (7) Best Tiger (6) King Black (1) Ttanbong Queen
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

The second division on the class 4 handicap over a mile. (8) P.D SPECIAL ran 2nd in the first race to ever be run at Yeongcheon over 1800M in September before returning to Busan and winning in a filly only race at this class and distance on October 9th. She is up 1.5kg here but shouldn’t need to improve much to win this. (1) WIDAEHAN HEART is up in class having won over 1300M on October 2nd. She goes best on pace, but she was slow away on her only previous try over a mile in July. Down in weight and drawn on the inside, she can be close today and can measure up. (3) BAMTORI BAMBAM is yet to win but has six top three finishes and has finished 2nd in each of his last three outings. That brings him up in class today, as well as in distance, but he is down 4.5kg in weight, which should make him competitive. (7) YONGBI JJANG and (5) SOMANGUIGIL other place chances.

Selections(8) P.D Special (1) Widaehan Heart (3) Bamtori Bambam (7) Yongbi Jjang
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maidens with three of the eleven racing for the first time. (5) MODERN BOY has raced twice, running 5th on debut over 1000M in August and then an improved 3rd at the same trip on October 9th coming from off the pace both times. Third up he can be peaking and the step up in trip can suit. (2) BREEDO SAMSON went through plenty of trials and debuted on October 9th with a solid 3rd place over this distance, albeit eleven-lengths behind a good winner. He should have come on for that run and shapes as the danger here. Of the debut-makers. (6) SHINING WORLD was the standout in trials, showing on pace and finishing in 3rd in a decent time in his second attempt. If he brings that form to the races, he can be in the finish first-up. (4) OASIS HANSEN has been back to trial since his inauspicious debut and could be much better today. So too (3) LEGACY MARINE.

Selections(5) Modern Boy (2) Breedo Samson (6) Shining World (4) Oasis Hansen
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Busan Race 5: Class 3 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

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Sunday Seoul & Yeongcheon: Race-By-Race Preview (November 1)

November gets underway with Sunday cards at Seoul (11 races from 10.35 to 17.55) and at Yeongcheon (6 races from 12:45 to 16:30). Here are the previews:

Yeongcheon (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but one racing for the first time. (10) AWESOME MORNING was the quickest in trials although he did have the advantage of having a certain Roshe to aim at. He was eight-lengths behind him but seven lengths in front of anything else and that’s enough to have him on top here. (9) NURI CHAMP won his trial, showing on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a fair time. He can get to the front here and can be a danger. (5) WINNER RISING posted a decent time when leading in her trial, ultimately running 3rd behind an experienced racehorse. Clutch Champ, who debuts on Saturday, was 2nd, half a length in front of Winner Rising, so it may be worth seeing how he goes. (11) WAWA SOCKS won her trial and must be considered, with (4) NOW DAYS another who hinted at ability.

Selections(10) Awesome Morning (9) Nuri Champ (5) Winner Rising (11) Wawa Socks
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start5, 9, 10, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens although all have raced before and there are two standouts. (6) MYEONG BEAUTIFUL debuted over 1200M on September 12th, settling in midfield and running on for 3rd place in a decent time. She should have come on for that run and the way she worked home suggests that the increased trip can be in her favour. (2) POWER RACER debuted back in July over 1000M and ran 3rd, eleven-lengths behind Samjeong Chef, who hasn’t quite kicked on. He was spelled for six weeks from mid-August but as been back in work since the beginning of this month and while he hasn’t trialed, he can go well first up. (7) OVER AND OVER was 5th on debut over 1000M on September 13th, running through the line well and he can improve here. (3) CANDLES STAR and (4) BAEKSAN RACE others to consider on a place line.

Selections(6) Myeong Beautiful (2) Power Racer (7) Over And Over (3) Candles Star
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) MIGHTY CHAMP has two 3rd places from three starts so far, most recently when leading over this distance on October 4th. He won’t need to improve much on that effort to win here. (3) TOUCH THE SKY beat Mighty Champ as the pair came home in 3rd and 6th when they raced each other over this distance on September. She debuted all the way back in March 2025 and has only raced three times so while she comes in again after seven weeks off, she still has scope for improvement. (4) MY DOLPUNG put in a poor effort in that September 13th race but prior to that registered a 3rd and a 4th and wit Andre on for the first time, can be given another chance. (1) FULL STRIKE and solitary debut-maker (11) HANWHARYUNG others in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Mighty Champ (3) Touch The Sky (4) My Dolpung (1) Full Strike
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(6) SURPRISE recorded a 2nd and a 1st in his two first appearances over the turn of the year but then didn’t appear again until October 5th when he almost managed to lead from gate to wire but ultimately fell to a half-length defeat. He should strip fitter for that run, and he will be a short price to go one better today. (1) STUNNING SERVE enters off back-to-back 3rd places at this class over 1400M. Luis knows him very well and he can be there or thereabouts again today. (4) CHOWOLMA has been very consistent at this class and enters after a narrow defeat at the hands of the longest shot on the board at this class and distance on September 12th. He can settle behind the speed and run on here. (9) RAIN STAR and (7) JEJU BLUE, the latter up in class following a maiden win, are others to consider.

Selections(6) Surprise (1) Stunning Serve (4) Chowolma (9) Rain Star
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7

Yeongcheon Race 1: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) ACE CROW has raced three times and has finished as runner-up three times, most recently leading on her first try at this class and distance on October 2nd and being passed late. She comes to Yeongcheon for the first time, she can lead again, and it may suit. (2) YEOUN is another who seems to enjoy finishing 2nd. She has a win to her name but also has four 2nd places, including her latest two at this class over 1300M and 1200M. She can sit just behind the speed and be in the finish again. (1) CHOEGANG LOUIS came to Yeongcheon on October 11th at this class and distance and proceeded to lead from gate to wire to score his maiden win at start twenty-one. He comes up a full 4kg in the weights, but a repeat shouldn’t be ruled out. (5) OASIS KINGDOM and (10) WORLD BOLD MAN are the other main chances.

Selections(7) Ace Crow (2) Yeoun (1) Choegang Louis (5) Oasis Kingdom
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(9) EAN FIRST returned from ten months off on October 4th and while he only managed to finish 7th of eleven, the margins weren’t big, he had shown plenty of promise before the layoff, and he can improve enough to win today. (1) BEOLGYO EMPEROR had a hard time over 1700M last time out. He drops back in trip today and based on his form prior to his latest he should be in the mix. (8) WONDERFUL CHIEF remains a maiden but comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes over 1300M. He has been back to trial since his latest run, winning it, and down in weight, he can be competitive in this company. (4) BREEDO GALAXY and up in class (6) ILGEUP BISEUL among others who can compete for the minors.

Selections(9) Ean First (1) Beolgyo Emperor (8) Wonderful Chief (4) Breedo Galaxy
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

Yeongcheon Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 31)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden to begin. (7) BONBON TIARA has two 4th places and a 5th from three starts so far, most recently stepping up to this trip for the first time on September 20th. She’ll race handy, the in-form Asano stays on, and she can win. (3) SEOBU KING was an improved 2nd over 1300M at start five on September 19th. He was beaten seven-lengths by a good winner but doesn’t face anything like that here and won’t have to improve much to go very close. (11) LOVING PURPLE led for much of is latest on October 10th over this distance, ultimately only going down by a length and a quarter. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but can be in the mix again. (5) LEGEND MONSTER and (3) WALLSTREET other minor money chances.

Selections(7) Bonbon Tiara (3) Seobu King (11) Loving Purple (5) Legend Monster
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 11

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

Imported maidens for northern hemisphere two-year-olds and southern hemisphere three-year-olds with five of the eight racing for the first time. (4) CLUTCH CHAMP went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them (2nd from gate twelve in 62.7 seconds on September 17th). He draws well here and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (2) CASTELLA debuted in July with a solid 4th place over 1000M. He had a setback afterwards but has been back in full work since the start of this month and he is the main danger. (8) HERO MITOLE was a close 2nd in his trial just last week when leading close to home. So long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can be competitive first up. Another first timer (1) NAREUSYA GLORY, along with (5) EAST WINNER, who has raced twice for a 3rd and an 8th, are the others to consider.

Selections(4) Clutch Champ (2) Castella (8) Hero Mitole (1) Nareusya Glory
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. After a couple of good trials, (9) LUMINOUS finished in 3rd place on debut over 1000M on October 3rd, coming from off the pace and only beaten just over a length. He should have come on for that run, the step up in trip can suit, and he is the one to beat. (8) GHOST THUNDER ran 6th on debut before improving to 4th at start two over this distance on October 5th. Both times he has come from well off the pace and as the only one in the race with two outings behind him, e may have a fitness edge here. (6) WONPYEONG CAT came from a long way back to run 6th of eleven behind Luminous on October 3rd and is another wo should benefit from a bit further. Of the first-time starters, (5) PLOTTER and (7) MANY BLITZ were the best in trials, the former having won his. One thing to be aware of is that there is no obvious early speed in the field.

Selections(9) Luminous (8) Ghost Thunder (6) Wonpyeong Cat (5) Plotter
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the nine racing for the first time. (5) DAON HUNTER showed on pace over this distance on debut on September 6th, ultimately coming home in 2nd place, beaten four-lengths. He should have come on for that run, he can lead again here, and he can go one better. (7) CRAZY BLUE was similarly only about four-lengths behind the winner, albeit back in 4th place, on his debut on September 13th over 1000M. he too can be on pace again and in this a long way. (4) YEONGWONHAN BOSS won his trial from the front and from a central draw, can put in a bold effort first up. (3) MR. BULLS and (9) POINT WIND also hinted at ability in their respective heats.

Selections(5) Daon Hunter (7) Crazy Blue (4) Yeongwonhan Boss (3) Mr. Bulls
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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ROSHE RETURNS: KOOKJE SHINMUN PREVIEW AND FORM COMMENTS

Friday sees the Korea Premier Series return and with it the more eagerly awaited reappearance of the unbeaten Roshe, who heads a full field of sixteen in the Kookje Shinmun Cup (1400M KOR-G3) at Busan. SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 9 FRIDAY RACES AT BUSAN.

Roshe (Pic: KRA)

ROSHE is a perfect six from six and the three-year-old American import is yet to be troubled in any of his outings to date, including when he stepped up to Group company for the first time in the Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) in June when he recorded a facile ten-length win.

He hasn’t raced since, and while the Seong Sang-hyun trained Roshe did miss a scheduled trial a week ago, he had already come through one earlier in October and under regular jockey Jang Chu-youl, he should have too much for this field.

Several come out of creditable efforts in the international Korea Sprint over 1200M last month. They include MUNHAK BOY, who won this race last year before losing form completely. That slide may well have been arrested by a big 4th place in the international race, and he has Seoul Premiership leader Kozzi Asano aboard.

WINNER CLEAR, SILVER RAIN and HAKSAN SPEED also come out of the Korea Sprint while SUPER FINISH was 3rd in the international race last year and was a strong class 1 winner over this trip at the end of August. All will be backed on a place line.

GANGSEO GIANT and BIWOL are set to be the next bests. Here is a full run down of the field:

1. SUPER FINISH – Four-time winner over the distance most recently at the end of August at class 1 level. Beaten late on a very wet track when seemingly about to win but somehow finishing 4th two weeks ago. Good draw to lead and to be in this a long way. Place chance.

2. SINUI EREUM – Four-time winner whose recent form has been cold and whose rating as just dropped back to class 2. Big outsider here.

3. SILVER RAIN – More a 1200M horse, he was a fair 8th of sixteen in the Korea Sprint in September, prior to which he was 2nd in very quick race at class 2 level. Well-drawn to sit handy and while not favoured, he can beat plenty.

4. MAENGNYONG – A bit of a wildcard. He jumped up from class 3 to class 1 in May and won at this distance before finishing a decent 6th behind Roshe in the Owners’ Cup. Hasn’t raced since but won a trial in fine fashion on October 15th and 1400M is his go. Each-way chance.

5. SUNNY ROAD – Has been racing in Listed or equivalent company recently and has been well down the field. As won over this distance but on current form it is hard to see him making an impact in this company.

6. WINNER CLEAR – Second in two legs of the Sprint Series before running 6th in the Korea Sprint itself, each time settling well back and running on. He hasn’t ad much joy at 1400M but the way he has finished off recently suggests he is ready for another go. Second favourite.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 30)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday and it’s a bug one with the Kookje Shinmun Cup (1400M KOR-G3) the feature with the unbeaten Roshe seeking to go seven-from-seven. That’s race 6 on the 9-race card which runs from 11:10 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Munhak Boy won last year’s Kookje Shinmun (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. (4) OASIS CELEB came from off the pace on debut over 1000M at the end of August. Nine weeks down the line, she can strip fitter, and the step up in trip can suit. Of the debut-makers, (1) POWERFUL BRIDGE was the best in trials. She went through two of them, first in September and then on October 8th when she improved to 3rd in a quick time having led. With a good start today, she should be in this a long way. (8) SECRET FOG was 3rd on debut over 1000M on September 18th when settling midfield and running on. Like Oasis Celeb, she too should appreciate the step up in distance and can match or better that today. (2) GOSOK QUEEN and (6) QUEEN CLEAVER are the other first-timers who will be supported.

Selections(4) Oasis Celeb (1) Powerful Bridge (8) Secret Fog (2) Gosok Queen
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. There are three standouts and they all finished 4th on their respective debuts. (4) TO WIN came out of gate ten on debut over 1000M before settling handy and running on for a solid 4th place. She finished off very well, the big step up in trip can suit, and she has as good a chance as any. (9) FLEX TEUKGEUP beat To Win in their trial and then came from off the pace to run 4th on debut on October 2nd. He too should have come on for that run and is a danger here. (7) SUPEX MAGIC debuted over 1200M on September 18th, beating two of today’s rivals on his way to 4th. He was doing his best work late and he is another who can benefit from the additional distance. By virtue of the jockey booking, (1) MILLION TREE will be the best backed of the debut-makers. (3) BULPAEJILJU was a fair 5th on debut and can improve.

Selections(4) To Win (9) Flex Teukgeup (7) Supex Magic (1) Million Tree
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

A regular maiden but there are four debut-makers. (6) MAX LEVEL will be a strong favourite. He didn’t do much on debut in July, but subsequently went back to trial, which he won, and he was a very close 2nd on his return to racing on September 4th when he led for much of the way, ultimately only going down by a nose. He can lead again here and this time he shouldn’t be denied. (11) GOING TO WIN probably isn’t, at least not just yet, but he was the best of the newcomers in trials and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, if he can bring that form to the races, he can be close. (2) OASIS WANGJA has been through several trials and while none were especially quick, he did lead his latest and that’s enough to give him a chance of going well first-up against this very modest opposition. (1) FOR THE VICTORY and (3) BRAVO QUEEN look the most likely of the experienced ones to improve.

Selections(6) Max Level (11) Going To Win (2) Oasis Wangja (1) For The Victory
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) BLUE TREE was 2nd on debut over 1300M at the end of August before running 3rd at start number two on October 9th, both times racing close to the speed. He should be on pace again here, Seo Seung-un climbs on for the first time, and today can be the day. (3) SKY WON was a fair 5th of eleven on debut over 1200M on September 6th, coming from off the pace. She should have come on for that run, she comes into a better gate, and the slight step up in trip can suit. (4) GREY WIND was 5th behind Blue Tree in that October 9th race. She also has a 2nd place to her name over 1000M, and she can be in the mix again here. (11) SIERRA GOLD and (5) OASIS SHACKLE among plenty of others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Blue Tree (3) Sky Won (4) Grey Wind (11) Sierra Gold
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Sunday Seoul & Yeongcheon: Race-By-Race Preview (October 25)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55, and at Yeongcheon where there are 6 races from 12:45 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) GEOLJAK MARU was 3rd at start two over 1200M in August and was then given a run in the Listed Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy where, as the longest shot on the board, he ran a creditable 5th of nine. That form is far superior to anything else here. (7) METAL INVADER hasn’t raced since finishing 4th over 1200M back in March. He’s been back in work a long time though and has been gelded since we last saw him. He showed at the front in a trial at the start of this month and while he did weaken, he couldn’t have a softer race to return in. (11) DANAEUN RUBY has a 3rd and a 4th to her name and that’s enough to put her in line for a place here. (1) INDIE MINISTER and (3) LOOM CHUKJE other contenders for the minors.

Selections(10) Geoljak Maru (7) Metal Invader (11) Danaeun Ruby (1) Indie Minister
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 23, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After running 4th on debut in July, (4) GOLD X has finished 3rd in two subsequent tries, both of them over this distance and both times coming from off the pace. Expect similar tactics today and he should be too good late on. (10) PNS LEAF comes in off a much-improved 3rd over 1300M on October 5thh when slow out and running on. The time was slow, but he steps up to 1400M for the first time today and it may well suit. (11) CHEONGGANG GYEOUL similarly was an improved 3rd last time when ridden forward much earlier than in previous efforts. She has the challenge of the widest gate this time but with a touch of luck at the start, she can be in this. (5) THUNDER RUN and (7) CHEONMAUI HANSEONG are the other main contenders.

Selections(4) Gold X (10) PNS Leaf (11) Cheonggang Gyeoul (5) Thunder Run
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

It took (1) GEOLJAK TIARA a couple of goes following her maiden win to get accustomed to this level, but she has been very consistent since, with two 2nd places and two 4th places from her latest two. In this company and from the inside gate, she can be on pace, and she can win. (6) SUNGANUI FIGHTER was a winner at this class and distance two starts back before running 3rd on September 12th, coming from off the pace. He is up 4kg from his win but can be challenging late again. (2) DONGBAEK comes up in class following and all the way win over this distance on September 19th. This is tougher, but the manner of that victory suggests that there can be more to come. (10) STORM CRUSH and (9) HOT FEVER are among plenty of other chances.

Selections(1) Geoljak Tiara (6) Sunganui Fighter (2) Dongbaek (10) Storm Crush
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(3) MAEUM HANA is a winner of five from eight so far, most recently at this class over 1200M in August. He weakened to 5th having led when tried at 1800M last time out on September but back down in trip he should be much more comfortable today and looks hard to beat. (11) RAON NIZHINSKII needs a line drawn through his latest but going on his 2nd place at this class and distance on August 29th, he is worth another chance here. (8) LUCKY FRANK was a beaten favourite last time out but is a multiple placer at this level and is also worth another chance. (5) DREAM HONOUR and (6) CHEONGRYONGUI CAL are others who can ave a say in the finish.

Selections(3) Maeum Hana (11) Raon Nizhinskii (8) Lucky Frank (5) Dream Honour
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 10

Yeongcheon Race 1: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only. (1) RACE NINE was 2nd on debut before getting her maiden win in a lightning quick time over 1000M at start number two in August. She was then 3rd on her first try at this distance on September 18th. She comes to Yeongcheon for the first time, she can be on pace, and she can win. (2) FANTASTIC QUEENS was an on-pace winner over 1000M in an all-filly maiden on September 18th. She is up in class and in trip but there’s nothing to suggest that she can’t measure up. (9) YEONGGWANGUIROOKIE enters off a useful 3rd place at this class and distance on September 6th and can aim to match that here. (3) GOLDEN CODE, who got her maiden win last time out, is another contender. The form falls off after those four, with (5) BLACK WAVE probably the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Race Nine (2) Fantastic Queens (9) Yeonggwanguirookie (3) Golden Code
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 24)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10-races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. (3) NIGHT THUNDER was a trial winner in August before debuting over 1000M on September 19th and overcoming a slow start to motor home for 4th. The step up in trip should be very much in her favour and she will be a short price to win this. (2) GEOSEN BEONGAE similarly did his best work late on debut over the shortest trip on September 6th. He was the longest shot on the board that day after a couple of unimpressive trials, but he is another who can show more over a longer trip. (8) FLYING UNO looks the best of the first-time starters. He was an on pace 2nd in his trial and if he brings that form to the races, he should be firmly in this. (4) RISING KILLER beat a couple of these on debut and can improve while (6) VELOCE is a debut-maker who hinted at ability across two trials.

Selections(3) Night Thunder (2) Geosen Beongae (8) Flying Uno (4) Rising Killer
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

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

Juvenile maiden although all but one have prior experience. (2) NAREUSYA GOAT was 5th on debut over 1000M in August before running 2nd at start number two over this trip on September 20th when he led for most of the way (before a very good winner cruised by) and beat several of today’s rivals. From the same gate he can lead again and this time he can go one better. (6) GRAND PAS CLASSIC has finished 2nd in both his starts so far, both over 1000M and both times showing on pace. He is up in trip and can be in the finish again. (3) ESSENTIAL FORCE was 3rd in that September 20th race. E only has a length to find on Nareusya Goat and comes into a much better gate. (7) FLASH BOLT and (1) CLASSIC AUTUMN are the other main contenders in a decent-looking race.

Selections(2) Nareusya Goat (6) Grand Pas Classic (3) Essential Force (7) Flash Bolt
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) INFERNO was a front-running 3rd on debut over 1000M on September 6th. He should ave come on for that run, Franco stays on, and he has every chance of going one better today. (3) BEAT STAR as a couple of 4th places and a 5th from three outings so far. From a good draw, he should be on the pace, and he should be aiming for a better finish today. (11) WONPYEONG DREAM looked good in trials and was then a close 3rd on debut over this distance in July when he came from well off the pace. He then went lame but has been back in full work for most of this month and can run well on return. (6) URIUI GIPPEUM was a much-improved 2nd on September 13th, with Beat Star back in 4th. He can build on tat here. Of the two debut-makers, (1) UNICORN PRINCE looked fair enough in trials.

Selections(7) Inferno (3) Beat Star (11) Wonpyeong Dream (6) Uriui Gippeum
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) SEOUL BIHAENG is yet to win in seven attempts but has no fewer than four runner-up finishes, including his latest at this class and distance on August 29th when he raced handy throughout. He is up 2kg, but draws well and in this company, today could be the day. If he does find one too quick again, it might be (2) CRAZY CHAMP, who enters off a close 2nd place at this class and distance on October 11th when he led until the closing stages. He is up 3kg in weight but draws better to get an easier run to the front. (9) THUNDER MATA was an on-pace winner over 1000M on September 13th. He is up in class and in distance, but he can measure up. (7) HOLLY TIARA ran three times across the turn of the year, winning once at this distance. She hasn’t raced since January, but she looked well when winning a trial at the start of this month and she can be in this. (8) PARKA SHINE perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Seoul Bihaeng (2) Crazy Champ (9) Thunder Mata (7) Holly Tiara
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup (Queens’ Tour Fall/Winter 2nd Leg): Form Comments

The second leg of the Queens’ Tour Fall/Winter is set for Busan on Friday afternoon when the three-year-old generation gets another crack at their elders in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3). SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 9 RACES AT BUSAN ON FRIDAY.

Fantastic Value is a two-time Queens’ Tour winner already this year (Pic: KRA)

It was the established fillies and mares who came out on top in the Jeju Governor’s Cup (1400M KOR-G3), the first leg of the series a month ago as four-year-old FANTASTIC VALUE added the race to the Ttukseom Cup she won earlier in the year. Last year’s Oaks winner is set to be a short-price favourite to prevail again on Friday and in the process seal the title of Champion filly/mare with a race to go.

At six-years-old, RAON FOREST is the oldest in the race. Last year’s KNN Cup winner was 2nd behind Fantastic Value in the Jeju Governor’s a month ago and beat plenty of repeating rivals when winning the Listed Donga Ilbo Trophy back in March. She has every chance of beating all her younger rivals again.

BORYEONGLIGHTQUEEN was 2nd in that Donga Ilbo. She has a habit of getting a long way back in her races and then taking too long to go through the gears in the home straight, but she is one of only two in the race to have won over the distance and her ability isn’t in question.

As for the three-year-olds, CLEARLY WINNER heads the crop. The Luna Stakes winner and Oaks runner-up was 4th in the Jeju Governor’s and looks to have scope to get better. Oaks winner CATCH RACE along with SUNRISE, who won the final leg of the Triple Tiara over the same 2000M distance as Friday’s race, are the other up and comers.

The race is the 6th on the 9-race Friday card with a local post time of 16.00. Here’s how they line up:

1. TIGER ROAR – 3rd in both the Korean Oaks and Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup, coming from off the pace both times. 7th in the Jeju Governor’s last time out. She has only won once and that probably won’t change today but she will stay on and can beat plenty.

2. EXCELLENT MATTA – Won five starts back and but has been bouncing around in midfield worse at class 3 and class 2 over 1800M and 1200M in four outings since. Outsider here.

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