Racing Previews

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 27)

With no racing on Jeju this weekend (Seoul is off next week), there is a huge 15-race card at Seoul on Saturday running from 14:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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Seoul nights with an angry monsoon sky are something to behold

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

(1) HANEUL GONGWON ran a solid 3rd on debut on June 22nd, finishing just a length behind the winner. It was an encouraging start and she won’t need to improve too much to win here. (6) JAENEUNG CHUNGMAN improved to 2nd on her latest start over 1300M. She drops back in trip today and should be firmly in contention. (8) YULONG FLYING put in a couple of promising performances in May and early June. He’s subsequently been back to trial which he came through in competent enough fashion. (4) ACE WIN and (7) GOLDEN ANGLE, the latter of whom may be the early leader – and struggled in the kickback when he didn’t last time – are others to consider.

Selections (1) Haneul Gongwon (8) Yulong Flying (6) Jaeneung Chungman (7) Golden Angle
Next Best 4, 5
Fast Start 7, 10, 11

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

Not the strongest of maidens this so we’ll be looking for something to step up. (7) GOLD HERO ran 3rd on debut on an all-filly affair on June 30th and so naturally draws the eye. The time was slow though and others may be favoured. (6) SAMAE JILJU has shown some ability with a 3rd and a couple of 4th place finishes. She got a bad bump at the start last time and later was found to have bled. Accordingly, she went back to trial and went well. (9) SEONGPAJANG too had excuses last time in that she was found to be slightly lame. Back fully fit she should go much better today. (1) GOLDEN SPARK has been no better than average so far but has arguably been racing in better company so may improve. (2) USEUNG MACHA drops back in trip and can also be considered.

Selections (9) Seongpajang (6) Samae Jilju (7) Gold Hero (1) Golden Spark
Next Best 2, 5
Fast Start 1, 2, 10, 11

Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the ten having raced once before. Of those, (6) K N ROAD is set to be strong favourite here. He ran a decent 3rd on debut on June 15th and while he was a good seven-lengths behind the winner, it was a useful time and he should have come on for the run. (4) JEONGSEONG STAR didn’t do herself any favours on debut when hanging out in the home straight but does look the most credible danger here. Otherwise it’s the first time starters we need to look out and of those, trial winner (7) RUFFIAN PARK looks the most likely, along with (1) ILBO DEUNGCHEON and (9) RAIN K.

Selections (6) K N Road (4) Jeongseong Star (1) Ilbo Deungcheon (9) Rain K
Next Best 7, 8, 3
Fast Start 4, 7, 8, 9

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

Another set of average maidens. (5) GWACHEONUI BYEOL beat (1) RECENT DREAM as the pair came home 2nd and 3rd in a similarly weak affair over the same distance on July 7th. It was an uptick in form for both and they can keep it going here with Gwacheonui Byeol again favoured to come out on top. After a couple of promising trials, (10) WINNER TEMPLAR didn’t do a lot on debut at the end of June but should have come on for the run and can improve today. Similarly, (2) TRUE RUBY underwhelmed on her first star but can build on it here. (3) HWANGGEUM STAR the best of a limited rest.

Selections (5) Gwacheonui Byeol (1) Recent Dream (10) Winner Templar (2) True Ruby
Next Best 3, 8
Fast Start 5, 6, 7, 9

Race 5: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Two and three-year-old maidens and a big prize on the line with just three of them having run before. (12) MYEONGJIN FLY ran a strong 2nd on debut on June 22nd. He was beaten five-lengths by a good winner (King’s Step) but it was promising nonetheless and he looks the one to beat here, even though he will have to overcome the widest draw to get to the front. (11) BRIGADIER GENERAL ran 3rd in that same race just over two-lengths in arrears of Myeongjin Fly. He too has drawn wide but he looks to be the most significant threat. As for the first-timers, (3) MOVIECUS caught the eye when winning a trial just two weeks ago and looks set to go well first up. (6) MUNHAK BOSS also won his heat and can be dangerous. (9) GAYA YEONGBONG best of the rest.

Selections (12) Myeongjin Fly (11) Brigadier General (3) Moviecus (6) Munhak Boss
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 3, 6, 11, 12

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

Since getting her maiden win in December, (1) INDY LADY has been knocking on the door of a repeat with some very respectable recent results almost all of which were in better company than this. That includes her latest 5th place when she led for much of the race. From the inside gate she can get to the front here and should win. (2) CHAMP K got his maiden victory at this distance in April and ran a solid 5th on his first try at this class in May. Granted there were only eight runners but the margins were narrow and he comes in off twelve weeks’ rest with strong placing chances. (3) BLESSING ROAD showed signs of a return to form on his latest outing and should be close to a place here. (7) NAE GIRUI BIT and (8) P.K. GUNHWANG are both up in class following maiden wins at this distance and both should be competitive at this level too.

Selections (1) Indy Lady (8) P.K. Gunhwang (2) Champ K (3) Blessing Road
Next Best 7, 10
Fast Start 1, 2, 3

Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Since being promoted to this level following a win back in March, (7) GENERAL ROSE has registered three consecutive 4th place finishes. It’s time for her to step and she can do that today, likely leading from the start. It won’t be easy though. (1) RAON PATRICK will be on pace too and while she is up in distance for the first time, she looks ready for it and will be a threat. (5) M J PARTY and (4) INDIAN ECO came home 3rd and 4th when they raced each other on June 30th at this distance and both can go close once more. (11) HANSEN BAROWS got a poor trip last time and can go better today.

Selections (7) General Rose (1) Raon Patrick (11) Hansen Barows (4) Indian Eco
Next Best 5, , 106
Fast Start 1, 7, 11

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

(2) BEST EVER seems to have got to grips with this level and ran a decent 4th over 1300M on his latest start in June. A previous attempt at this distance didn’t go so well but he looks ready for another crack and can come from just behind the early pace to go close here. It’s a very competitive race though. (6) BRANDON already has a class and distance 2nd to his name and while he was only 6th last time the margins were tight and he was less than two-lengths behind the winner. He too will come from behind the early lead. (11) EVER THE CHAMP beat three of these on his way to a close at hand 2nd place on June 22nd and is likely to be one of those setting the pace here. (3) EMORY SOCKS and (10) DOLGYEOK APEURO are others in the hunt.

Selections (6) Brandon (2) Best Ever (11) Ever The Champ (3) Emory Socks
Next Best 10, 9
Fast Start 8, 9, 11

Race 9: Class 3 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(4) CLEAR GEOM comes here off a shock win in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup, the final leg of the “Triple Tiara” for three-year-old fillies, a month ago. She came from off the pace to run down a tiring leader that day and has to be given serious respect back in this class today. (7) BODEURAM is a clear danger with a win and a pair of runner-up finishes from his latest two starts. He looks set to lead here and won’t be as easy for Clear Geom to run down over 1700M as those fillies were at 2000M. (6) JUMBO CAPTAIN was a class and distance winner last start, leading all the way, and while he carries an additional 4kg today, is to be taken seriously. (2) GIDONG DAEGANG and (5) LOVELY NUTE are both better than their latest outings suggest and both have placing claims.

Selections (4) Clear Geom (7) Bodeuram (5) Lovely Nute (6) Jumbo Captain
Next Best 2, 1
Fast Start 6, 7

Race 10: Class 3 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Small but very competitive field. (2) KILIUI JEWANG makes a return to this distance following a 2nd place finish in a really good race over 1200M last month. He has to carry top weight but that’s for a reason and under Lee Hyeon Jong, he could win here, likely trying to lead all the way. It’s a tough ask though. (3) INCHEON CHIEF was 4th behind Kiliui Jewang in June and has since run 3rd at 1400M. The Pioneerof The Nile colt steps up to two turns for the first time today and it seems likely to suit. (8) HWANSANG STAR remains a maiden but has several near-misses and should be close at hand again. (1) JUMEOK DOKKI and (7) SAMSAM VICTORY are others more than capable of finding the money.

Selections (2) Kiliui Jewang (3) Incheon Chief (8) Hwansang Star (7) Samsam Victory
Next Best 1, 6
Fast Start 2, 7, 8

Race 11: Class 5 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Another competitive race but (8) SIMON QUEEN ran 3rd on her first try at this level on June 30th. While she was a long way behind classy winner Running Box, it was a good performance that if repeated in this company can see her home on top. (7) KING OF RULES remains a maiden but steps up in class nonetheless today with some solid runs behind him and he should be competitive. Another maiden (1) HANEUL ACE had a poor day at the office on his latest start but is better than that and can demonstrate it here. (2) NONSTOP HAENGJIN steps up in class after a maiden win over 1000M on June 23rd and is in with a shout of at least securing some minor money. (9) BARAMUI SORI looks best of the rest.

Selections (8) Simon Queen (7) King Of Rules (2) Nonstop Haengjin (1) Haneul Ace
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 3, 9, 10

Race 12: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) COLORFUL JOY is moving rapidly up the classes having won his latest two by as many as he pleased. He actually gave up three-lengths with a poor start last time but cruised on by to win by a cool seven on the line. While he can’t afford that kind of start in sterner company today, he should be completing a hat-trick here. (5) BEYOND OVER enters off the back of consecutive runner-up finishes and while he may find one too quick again, shouldn’t be far away. (6) ISCRA was a narrow class and distance winner on June 30th and while he’s up quite a bit in the weights, can hold his own again. (2) WONDERFUL TRUTH and (11) GLOBAL CHEONHA are others to keep an eye on.

Selections (3) Colorful Joy (5) Beyond Over (6) Iscra (11) Global Cheonha
Next Best 2, 7
Fast Start 2, 3, 4, 7

Race 13: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(6) MIGHTY WING remains a maiden after eight attempts and while he came up short as favourite last time over 1700M, he didn’t run badly and is worth another chance down in trip in a similar strength race today. He should be on or close to the early speed and stay on all the way. The main dangers are likely to challenge for the early lead too. The principal one is (11) CHOIN BOLT, a winner of three from four so far to move rapidly up the classes. This is his toughest assignment to date and the draw has done him no favours, but if he gets away well, he could be hard to beat. (3) PRETTY ODD BOY has out in three promising runs since returning from six months off and shouldn’t be too far away. (1) BLUE FIRE and (9) FASHION PEOPLE are others in the placing hunt.

Selections (11) Choin Bolt (6) Mighty Wing (3) Pretty Odd Boy (1) Blue Fire
Next Best 9, 2
Fast Start 3, 5, 6, 11

Race 14: Class 3 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(9) ACTIMON got his maiden win at the sixth time of asking over 1300M at the end of May. He’s had nine weeks off since then and is up in class today but he could well be the one to beat. (3) MALIBU GINGER has been running creditably in tough company recently and should be a danger. He is likely to lead early. (10) NIMUI HYANGGI has a 3rd and two runner-up finishes from three attempts so far at this level. he too will look to lead early and is more than capable of going all the way. (5) DAEBAK HAENGJIN comes in following four consecutive 2nd place finishes. That’s put her up in trip and while she might struggle to get so close this time, she’s a contender for some minor money. (7) DORAON NALRI looks best of the rest.

Selections (10) Nimui Hyanggi (9) Actimon (3) Malibu Ginger (5) Daebak Haengjin
Next Best 7, 6
Fast Start 3, 10

Race 15: Class 2 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(1) ULTRA PUNCH beat three of these on his way to victory over class and distance on June 9th. It was a return to form for a gelding who’s shown bug potential as a juvenile and he can back it up with another win here. (3) YAHO STRONG CAT was 3rd in that race and is a class and distance winner himself. He’s consistent and is set to be a big danger. (6) GIO STAR has plenty of experience at this level and is consistently close. While he usually finds one or two too quick, he can place again. (2) TAP FASHIONED is another with plenty of recent near-misses. Those see him up in class today but he can be competitive under a light weight. (9) SAMSEONG DONGHANG on the other hand is a little bit inconsistent but goes well on his day and could be an interesting outsider.

Selections (1) Ultra Punch (3) Yaho Strong Cat (6) Gio Star (2) Tap Fashioned
Next Best 9, 11
Fast Start 1, 3, 9

 

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 26)

With the Jeju ponies taking their summer weekend off, it makes for a bumper Friday raceday at Busan with 14 races running through the afternoon and evening from 14:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Illumina

Busan nights

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

(9) PAGEUKCHEON came up short when sent off as the odds on favourite on hat was his third start on June 7th. That followed back to back 4ths in his opening two appearances and he can be given another chance to come out on top here. 3rd place getter that day was (6) CHEOGANG WINNER and she seems likely to be the main danger. She has a much better draw today to get to the front early and can take advantage. (2) DAEGYO and (4) HAPPY AGAIN look to have scope for improvement while the wildcard is (10) MYEONG GONGJU, who is returning to action here just over a year since we last saw her. She had shown some ability if four starts before the layoff and trialed up competently last month.

Selections (9) Pageukcheon (6) Cheogang Winner (10) Myeong Gongju (2) Daegyo
Next Best 4, 5
Fast Start 4, 6, 9, 10

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

Weak maiden here so we’ll need to forgive plenty of underwhelming latest starts if we’re to find the winner. (4) TWO TWO WAY was well backed but once again struggled when sent out around 1300M at the end of May. Her last two tries at this distance have been encouraging though and she should be set for improvement here. She’ll be on the early pace with (1) CHODONG DAEJANG, who races for the first time since finishing well back behind three of these on May 10. However, she was found to be slightly lame that day and back fully fit after two months off, she should be a different prospect. (2) YONGHO and (8) BEAUTIFUL KOREA were two of those who finished ahead of her that day. Both have raced since with mixed results but could go close here. (5) ECTON STEALTH is one with potential to improve.

Selections (4) Two Two Way (1) Chodong Daejang (2) Yongho (8) Beautiful Korea
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 1, 4, 5, 6

Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with five of the eleven racing for the first time. A few of the experienced ones have shown some ability though so we’ll start with them. Indeed, four of them raced each other on their respective debuts over 1000M on June 28th. (6) WONDERFUL PEACE came out the best of them that day only beaten a neck into 2nd place. (7) TOP FIRE was 3rd, a length in arrears, while (5) ALPHA KING was back in 5th. All three should be in the hunt again although with the slight step up in trip today, Top Fire, who raced wide throughout that day, could be the one to beat. (4) ECHO SUN put in a good debut of his own a week earlier, running 2nd over the 1000M. He was improving at the end on that race, getting to within a nose of the winner and is another who may appreciate the additional furlong. Of the first-timers, (3) STAR OREUM is the pick. He was an eye-catching trial winner at the end of June and should go well here.

Selections (7) Top Fire (3) Star Oreum (4) Echo Sun (6) Wonderful Peace
Next Best 5, 11
Fast Start 3, 4, 5

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

Another competitive maiden. Three of these raced each other over this distance on June 21st with (1) MAJOR HIT, (6) WONDERFUL WINGS and (9) MS. UP filling out 2nd to 4th respectively. All three will be expected to be in the frame today. Ms. Up can perhaps be the one with the most improvement in her and she’s marginally favoured to come from off the pace and score. Among those who didn’t go in that race, (3) AMOR FATI looks the pick. Having trialed behind Ms. Up in May, he ran 2nd over this distance in June before struggling when sent off as favourite over a mile three weeks ago. Back down in trip today, he should be much better. The other one to consider is (8) NANSAN YEOJE. She ran an improved 3rd at this distance on June 21st on what was just her second career start and is likely to be on pace here.

Selections (9) Ms. Up (3) Amor Fati (1) Major Hit (6) Wonderful Wings
Next Best 8, 11
Fast Start 3, 6, 8

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

(7) PERDIDO ROCKET ran a solid 2nd when up to this trip on his second start on May 31st. He was beaten a full nine-lengths by a good winner but nevertheless, it was a promising performance and one he can build on here. (5) WILD GUY beat no fewer than four of these on his way to a second consecutive 3rd place finish on July 5th. He was only a neck away from 2nd and should be competitive again here. Among the ones Wild Guy beat that day, (4) HIDDEN BOY, who was 4th, looks to have the most potential to get closer although (6) FINAL WIND, who ran poorly in that race, had previously demonstrated ability too. (3) MAJOR PUNCH has lacked a bit of speed but has been consistently close across five starts so far and can be competitive again here.

Selections (7) Perdido Rocket (5) Wild Guy (3) Major Punch (4) Hidden Boy
Next Best 6, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 6

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

A strong favourite is expected here in the shape of (1) HUSE JEWANG. True, he’s fallen short when market-leader twice already but he’s run up against good ones both times and stepping up to a mile for the first time, should have too much. (11) TIZBE looks the main danger. She took to this distance really well on June 28th, beating four of these on her way to 2nd place. The wide draw shouldn’t be too much of a problem and she looks to have more improvement in her. (6) ETERNAL TRON has finished 2nd and 3rd in two efforts at this distance and looks to have a good shout of maintaining that placing record here. (4) BAEDAERI CAPER was 4th behind Eternal Tron last time out and can aim to at least match that today. (5) BICHUI HOWI is best of the rest.

Selections (1) Huse Jewang (11) Tizbe (6) Eternal Tron (4) Baedari Caper
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 6, 10

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

(10) HAPPY YEOGEOL was an unexpected winner on debut over this distance on June 28th having only just barely qualified through her trial. She put in a gutsy performance though to win by a neck and should have come on for the run. Today looks harder but she has a chance. (4) ULSAN JANGGUN has just the one win from fourteen outings to date but he’s down in trip today and looks to have solid claims form a good draw. (2) BONINARA remains a maiden but has two runner-up finishes at this distance and is (more…)

Ilgan Sports Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 21)

Sunday racing sees both Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:40 to 17:10) in action. The feature event is at Seoul with the Listed Ilgan Sports Cup over 1800M. Sports Chosun winner Burui Gori looks set to be favourite to defeat largely the same set of rivals as before in the 1800M feature. Race-by-race for Seoul is below with Busan selections at the bottom:

Burui Gori Sports Chosun

Burui Gori will be aiming for a repeat of his Sports Chosun victory (Pic: KRA)

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(6) YEONGGWANGUI BEAT has shown promise across three starts so far. He was slightly slow away last time but recovered to run a useful 4th and he looks primed to make the breakthrough here. Yeonggwangui Beat had been ridden in his last two starts by Moon Sung-Hyeok but today the apprentice gets on (1) CRAZY QUEEN. This filly has also looked to have some potential with a couple of near-misses and under a light weight here, can go close. (2) GOLD LEVEL weakened having led last start but is worth another chance here while (5) CHOEGANG SINGI and (8) BAEKDU GEOPO are others with placing chances.

Selections (6) Yeonggwangui Beat (1) Crazy Queen (2) Gold Level (5) Cheogang Singi
Next Best 8, 7
Fast Start 1, 2, 9

Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Fillies only here competing for a big prize over the 1300M and a decent set of them have been attracted. Having run 4th on debut, (8) MIGHTY LUCK put in a dominating eleven-length sore on her re-appearance at this distance in early June. She’s up in class today but the manner of that victory suggests there is plenty more to come from here. It took (1) BANGTANMA ten goes to get her maiden win and she followed it up with unsuccessful, yet credible tilts at both the Korean Oaks and the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cups. She’s back in more amenable company today and back at the trip she won at so she should be a big danger. (7) SINGGEUREOUN TIME already has a 2nd and a 3rd to her name at class and distance and can maintain her consistent record here. (10) WHITE QUEEN was a touch slow to begin on debut over this distance in late May but it didn’t stop her winning by four-lengths. This is tougher but she’s in the hunt. (5) COILRO was equally impressive when registering her first score two weeks ago. Alan Munro, who rode both, gets on Mighty Luck but don’t rule out Coilro from another good performance.

Selections (8) Mighty Luck (1) Bangtanma (5) Coilro (10) White Queen
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 3, 6, 8, 9

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

Wide open class 5 affair with plenty entering with their recent form reading well. However, it’s one of the few who didn’t go especially well last time, (4) SEMYEONG STORM, who has as good a chance as any. He was a little one-paced when well back over 1300M four weeks ago, but it wasn’t a bad run and it was in stiffer company than this. He’s drawn better to get on speed today and he can win. (11) LAO JIN is the model of consistency, having run 3rd in each of his latest three starts. The wide draw is not a problem and she can maintain her good record here. (5) QUEEN FORCE ONE beat Lao Jin a couple of starts back and should be in the hunt today as well. (7) AUSPICE is up in class and distance after a good maiden win over five furlongs last start. (10) CHEONNYEONUI BARAM similarly comes in off a first victory and while it won’t be so easy for him to get to the front today, it’s not impossible.

Selections (4) Semyeong Strom (7) Auspice (11) Lao Jin (5) Queen Force One
Next Best 10, 6
Fast Start 4, 5, 7, 9

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

(2) TAEPUNG EYES has plenty of experience at this level and comes in having run 2nd to Victory King in what was arguably a better class and distance race than this on June 15th. That was despite having a warning issued against him for hanging inwards in the home straight. If he fixes his manners today, he has solid claims. (1) CANNON SHOOTER was 6th in that same race and can get closer this time although a more serious threat is likely to be the up in class (7) DAEGUN POWER. He produced a front-running performance to register his maiden win last start four weeks ago and looks to have plenty of potential for further development. (3) IL MARE got a poor trip last time out but still managed to run 5th in a decent affair. From gate three, he’ll be on speed. (8) FOR J.K, another who didn’t have the best of luck on her most recent appearance, looks best of the rest.

Selections (2) Taepung Eyes (7) Daegun Power (3) Il Mare (8) For J.K.
Next Best 10, 1
Fast Start 1, 3, 11

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(8) CHUNGDAM HORANGI beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at this distance on June 23rd. That was just his third career start and he is evidently still learning but he looks to have wins in him, and it would be a surprise if the first of them wasn’t here. (1) HANEOL STAR was 4th in that race and looks the one most likely to emerge as a serious contender here. However, the biggest threats most likely didn’t go in that race. (3) MANSEOK JIGI steps up in trip after an excellent 3rd place over 1300M three weeks ago. (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 19)

Saturday’s afternoon and evening card at Seoul is about to get underway with 10 races from 14:55 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Night Barrier

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

A tough race to kick the day off with as we assess eleven maidens with some rather average form lines. Most of the chances were beaten by big margins last time out but they still ran superior times to their counterparts engaged. (3) GOLD FIELD will line up once again over the 1000m after finishing third last time out. She was beaten eight lengths but ran a time of 1.02.9 on a dry track which reads well for this assignment. Antonio Da Silva will be legged aboard who had just the one ride last weekend for one win. (5) GREEN CINDY ran a similar time last time out. She let a couple pass her in the straight,  but she has the ability to jump well and hold on for a cheque. (4) PARK BLADE drops back to the 1000m after finishing midfield over the 1300m four weeks back. Top rider Kim Yong-Geun will partner the filly once again who handed in a fair performance two starts back over the five furlongs. (2) LADY DIA was beaten ten lengths last time out when third over the 1300m. She looks the best of the rest.

Selections (3) Gold Field (5) Green Cindy (4) Park Blade (2) Lady Dia

Next Best 6, 9

Fast Start 2, 3, 5, 9

 

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

The second on the card sees another field of maidens line up over the short course. (6) CHEONGSU BIG EAR ran through the line strongly last start when second. The Peace Rules filly ran a handy time for this class, it is expected that Manuel Porcu will once again work forward on her with a lack of speed engaged. The other potential pacemaker is the debutant (8) CHODONG ROSE who ran a handy trial when qualifying. The chestnut seemed to respond to Song Jae Chul when he asked for an effort in the straight and there looked to be some gas left in the tank. (10) GOLDEN JAY finishing fourth behind the exciting Running Box last time out. Whilst beaten 12L, she only finished 3.5L behind the second horse and the winner looks something special. (2) JANGSAN EX has shown enough to finish in the money and gets a handy draw.

Selections (6) Cheongsu Big Ear (8) Chodong Rose (10) Golden Jay (2) Jangsan Ex

Next Best 4, 11

Fast Start 6, 9, 11

 

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance 2yo / KRW 60 Million

Nine two-year-olds will take to the track in the third with only one of them having a race start. (2) TK DAY looked impressive trialing on what looked a particularly heavy track for the field to get through. Jo Jae-Ro gave the Musket Man filly a slap with the stick and she responded well coasting through the line for an easy victory in reasonable time. (3) LUCKY BEOPJEON finished fourth behind a handy quinella in his race including Roller Blade who is two from two, and Taktuein who blew them away last time out. There is every chance he will start favourite with the form lines and should be dealt with as a winning chance albeit being beaten 9L on debut. (4) KOREA GIJEOK was nursed in his trial when finishing second running 1.04.4 on a dry track. Whilst hard to gauge it will be interesting to see him fully extended as he lines up for his debuy. (7) BISANGDEUNG ran on fairly in a slow trial. He was nursed by Lim Gi Won who will partner the filly once again.

Selections (2) TK Day (3) Lucky Beopjeon (4) Korea Gijeok (7) Bisangdeung

Next Best 5, 1

Fast Start 2, 3, 4

 

Race 4: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance 2yo / KRW 60 Million

Good to see another 2yo event on the card with the new crop filtering into the racing system. There looks an exciting type engaged in this race in the form of (3) ELITE LADY. She won her barrier trial in brilliant fashion when leading before extending away nicely. She is a well-developed two-year-old but most impressively was the way she did everything right in her trial. Song Jae Chul struck her once with the stick and she hit another gear. She looks the one to beat. (8) TANGO TIME was good in his trial. He coasted through the line running 1.03.6 on a wet track under Yoo Seung-Wan who partners the Hansen colt once again. (6) SAENAE CHOICE ran a handy time in her trial on a good rated track. Seoul’s leading rider will ride the Simon Pure filly who was somewhat green in her trial but looks to have some ability. (4) DALRINEUN BITKKAL finished sixth on debut behind Choin Gangja and looks a place chance.

Selections (3) Elite Lady (8) Tango Time (6) Saenae Choice (4) Dalrineun Bitkkal

Next Best 2, 9

Fast Start 3, 5, 6

 

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

There are plenty of in-form gallopers engaged in the fifth on the card where a field of eleven will line-up. (2) RAON PRO SENSE has been consistent for quite some time over this level and the Menifee colt has ran handy races both times when going over the 1700M. He’s somewhat of a non-winner but finds a field with no standout and with the draw should be right in this at an each-way price. (7) MENI SPEED has finished 3rd at his past five starts including three of them over 1700M. Masa Tanaka will be taking over on the three-year-old and is likely to settle him midfield before allowing him to be saved up for a quick sectional. (8) BARAM KING win in similar class three starts back and (more…)

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 14)

Racing on Sunday is at Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) & Busan (6 races from 12:40 to 17:05). Here are the previews:

RH7_2659

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

 A maiden to kick things off with and having been just beaten a head over this distance on June 9th, (11) HAERANG looks to have as good a chance as any of making the breakthrough here on what will be her eighth career start. She will, however, have to overcome the widest draw to get on pace early alongside (9) JEONGJOUI KKUM, who has shown steady improvement over three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place last time, and can continue his development here. (3) JEJUI YOJEONG also demonstrated improvement on what was just her second outing last month while (4) WHITE COMET and (6) ROYAL REMEMBER look to be others with solid claims of a place.

Selections (11) Haerang (9) Jeongjoui Kkum (4) White Comet (3) Jejui Yojeong
Next Best 6, 8
Fast Start 4, 9, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A field of eleven maidens will line up in the second on the card where there is a severe lack of early pace engaged. (11) BLUE DAEJAYEON will be a beneficiary of this as Jo Jae-Ro should be able to work forward on the three-year-old from a wide draw. The son of Exploit finished second last time out behind Royal Smarty and although beaten five lengths, his form reads well on a relative basis. (6) SOLGAEBARAM ran a much-improved race last time out. He was beaten under three lengths when finishing fifth over 1000m. He settled back and hit the line well suggesting the step up to the 1200m should suit. (10) ROAD HILL STORM will get the services of Moon Se-Young in this race. The Testa Matta three-year-old ran through the line fairly last time out over the 1000m in a respectable time. (9) DIAVOLA has been well beaten of late but looks the best of the rest.

Selections (11) Blue Daejayeon (6) Solgaebaram (10) Road Hill Storm (9) Diavola
Next Best 1, 5
Fast Start 11

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

(1) CHEONHA YEOJE has been going consistently close and with Moon Se Young returning to the mount today, it could be time she made her breakthrough. She looks set to lead in a race that seems to lack much in the way of speed, and she can go all the way. (5) NAE GIRUI BIT may have been indifferent when running two weeks ago but prior to that performed well when beating a couple of these on his way to 3rd place at this distance. One of those behind him that day was (10) BLUE BAND and she should have scope for improvement. (6) PUNGMUNEURO and (9) IRON HEART are others who should be in with a shout of a place.

Selections (1) Cheonha Yeoje (9) Iron Heart (10) Blue Band (5) Nae Girui Bit
Next Best 6, 11, 3
Fast Start 1

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

A field of nine will line up in the fourth where we are likely to see a short-priced favourite. (6) HUSH DAEBO was a brilliant six length winner last time out in Class 6 company. He sat just off the speed before extending nicely and winning in a good time over the 1300m for this class. Expect a similar ride from Moon Se-Young who partners him for the third time. (8) HEY DREAMER looks the main danger. He finished second in similar company last time out behind Private Man. He is likely to settle back from the wide draw as he hasn’t had much gate speed of late. We can take confidence with our on top selection given Moon Se-Young rode both of them late time out and elected to ride Hush Daebo. (7) DREAM MONEY is likely to spring the gates and work forward early. He was a good winner last time out in a weak field. (3) CHEON GOE SEONG managed to place in similar company last time out and should be kept safe in your wider selections.

Selections (6) Hush Daebo (8) Hey Dreamer (7) Dream Money (3) Cheon Goe Seong
Next Best 2, 1
Fast Start 6, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens racing for a big prize here. Two of the twelve have raced before and one of them, (6) TAKTUEIN, looks set to be banker favourite of the day. She ran 2nd in a fast time on debut on June 15th having led until close to home and she should have way too much here. (1) DASI DUSON also ran 2nd on her own debut two weeks ago, albeit in a significantly slower time and she has scope to place again. As for the first-timers, the only trial winner among them is (4) SAMSEONG VIVA and that puts him in the hunt. Expect him to be on speed early. (8) MENI HERO and (9) MEOTJIN GEUMSEONG are others who showed some ability in their respective heats and can go well first-up.

Selections (6) Taktuein (1) Dasi Duson (4) Samseong Viva (9) Meotjin Geumseong
Next Best 8, 10
Fast Start 1, 4, 6, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(1) HALLA HWANGHU has led from gate to wire in both her latest two, the latter of which was at this class. Both were at 1000M and today marks the first time she’s tackled further than the minimum distance but from the inside, if she can get on top again, she can win again. Plenty of other contenders though. (3) B.K. UNO ran 4th in a good class and distance affair in May and looks nicely in to go close again while (2) GIANT’S BIZ ran poorly last start but does have ability and can bounce back today. (9) YEONGGWANGUICHEON has never finished worse than 3rd and is up in class following a maiden win over 1000M last time out. This is tougher but not impossible. (11) JJUUK looks best of the rest.

Selections (1) Halla Hwanghu (3) B.K. Uno (2) Giant’s Biz (9) Yeonggwanguicheon
Next Best 11, 4
Fast Start 1, 4, 9, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
The sixth on the card is not the strongest Class 5 we have seen however there looks to be a few chances. Last start winner (2) WIND RIVER is likely to head the market after a victory in Class 6 company last time out. The Ecton Park filly showed a dazzling turn of foot to gobble up the field at big odds. She is lightly weighted with the claim of Moon Sung-Hyeok, don’t be surprised if she drops out early. (6) GOLD PERILLA looks the leader in a field that lacks early speed. She led and won in her maiden victory three starts back. (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 13)

Saturday sees a 10-race afternoon and evening card at Seoul running from 14:50 to 21:00.  Here are the previews:

Turn

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

A competitive Class 6 event will kick us off on Saturday over the five furlongs. (6) JEONGSANG STAR looks one of the main chances after finishing second behind Prime Queen last time out only beaten 1.5L. The three-year-old sat behind the pacemakers and hit the line well. This looks no harder and she should get every chance with not too much speed drawn inside of her. (5) AN MOK HANG has had just the two career starts to date. The Exploit filly was one paced last time out when beaten four lengths behind Wind River. (2) DALLINEUN ACE is the most experienced galloper in the field with eleven starts under his belt. He will get the services of Kim Yong-Geun for the first time and is coming off successive placed performances. (8) GYEONGGUKJIMA finished second behind Geom Hyang last time out and can figure again.

Selections (6) Jeongsang Star (5) An Mok Hang (2) Dallineun Ace (8) Gyeonggukjima

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

There only appears to be a handful of chances in the second. (4) EAGLE EYE looks hard to beat coming off a last start second behind Hush Daebo. Leading rider Kim Yong-Geun will partner the Thunder Moccasin filly once again and from barrier four she will take some beating. Expect her to settle in the first four. (10) MANA HANA showed a good turn of foot last time out to finish fourth behind Simon Queen. The three-year-old will have the claim of Jo Sang-Beom. Kim Deok-Hyeon will partner (6) MACH THUNDER for the first time. The colt was slightly disappointing last time out when fading in the run home, but the run prior was good. The apprentice’s claim will assist. (9) SPADE MASHIE has burnt punters a few times, but he looks one that will pick up a maiden win eventually.

Selections (4) Eagle Eye (10) Mana Hana (6) Mach Thunder (9) Spade Mashie
Next Best 8, 1
Fast Start 1, 6

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

The third on the card has limited speed engaged in the field of nine. (1) ACHIEVE has begun her career in superb style, winning on debut and following it up with a placed performance last start behind Super Yeowang. Moon Se-Young was aboard for the maiden victory and will reunite with the four-year-old once again. From barrier one she will jump and run and prove hard to beat. (9) QUEEN OF CAMP has had nine starts for five top three finishes. Lim Gi Won was aboard the three-year-old last time out when second behind Young Storm. The filly is still looking for her first win but should be respected in this event. (7) DANGDAE JILJU has placed in similar company. Lee Dong Ha will pilot the Winchester filly after finishing in the money last time out. The 1300m will suit her but she is likely to settle midfield from the gate. (2) FEDERAL CAT has raced well early on in his career finishing in the top three on three occasions from five starts. He is likely to be ran off his feet early, but he will hit the line strong.

Selections (1) Achieve (9) Queen Of Camp (7) Dangdae Jilju (2) Federal Cat
Next Best 4, 6
Fast Start 1, 6

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

A field on nine inexperienced imports will take to the track in the fourth with four of them having their first start in a race. (9) KINGS STEP ran the arms off the clock last time out when running the 1000m in one-minute flat on a good track. The Australian bred has been elevated up the weight scale but should be hard to beat on his recent performance. He looks a short course specialist. (7) AMERICAN FORCE ONE will have his third start in this event. Moon Se-Young will be legged aboard the two-year-old for the first time. The Gemologist colt hit the line strong last time out when it was all over. (4) GEUMJAYU debuts for trainer Park Byeong-Il and will be ridden by Antonio Da Silva. The filly’s trial appeared the best of the debutants engaged. (3) JEONGSAN SMART ran a respectable trial and should be kept safe in any exotic bets.

Selections (9) Kings Step (7) American Force One (4) Geumjayu (3) Jeongsang Smart
Next Best 1, 5
Fast Start 4, 5, 9

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Nine maiden gallopers will line up over the 1700m in the fifth on the card. (6) DALLYEORA SOKBO looks the one to beat coming off successive placed performances including a second over the 1700m last time out. The One Cool Cat only finished three quarters of a length away from Jungdong Dokju which reads well for this race. (8) SUPER VICTORY was a notable improver last time out when third behind Prima Nike. The filly will step up to the 1700m for the first time. Lee Dong-Ha thought she (more…)

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 14:30 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

RH7_2448

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

The first race to get us underway has a field of ten two-year-olds with eight of them having their first start in a race. It seems hard to go past the runners with experience here and (8) TWO TWO FAIRY looks the one to beat coming off a good performance when fourth behind Top Ace. The Hansen filly was beaten less than two lengths when having her first start and should take improvement from the run. (3) YEONGGWANGUI TIME comes out of the same race when finishing sixth. The filly should be able to get an economic run from barrier three with Choi Si-Dae taking the reins. (6) DOCTOR CARSON was good in his trial when running 1.03.2. Whilst not the fastest time on a wet track he was not fully extended by Jin Kyum. (5) WONDERFUL FLASH is another that trailed well and can figure with the right run.

Selections (8) Two Two Fairy (3) Yeonggwangui Time (6) Doctor Carson (5) Wonderful Flash
Next Best 7, 9
Fast Start 3, 6

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

A compact field of eight will line up over the 1300m in the second. (3) MERCI CHERIE brings the strongest form into a race that lacks depth. The Colors Flying colt finished second last time out in similar company when running on well from a midfield position. If he can sit in the first half, he should take some beating. (7) THUNDER BAY is still early in his career and showed improvement last time out. He ran on well last time out and he will get longer to wind up as he steps up to the 1300m for the first time. (2) BICHUI HOWI drops back from the mile where she placed last time out. That was her first top three finish from seven starts. (4) ANGEL KING STAR will have his second career start after finishing fifth on debut. He is another that can improve.

Selections (3) Merci Cherie (7) Thunder Bay (2) Bichui Howi (4) Angel King Star
Next Best 5, 1
Fast Start 1

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

A field of eight lines up in the third once again over the 1300m. (5) PARADISE KING was promising on debut when finishing third behind Spice Rock. The three-year-old placed third in a blanket finish last time out when beaten less than two lengths. Top rider Choi Si-Dae will partner the chestnut once again. (8) MENI QUEEN was good in a recent trial when winning the event over 1000m. She coasted through the line in the event when running a fair time. (2) DARUI BADA ran on well last time out over the 1000m and will appreciate the step up to the 1300m. (3) PARTY WINNER drops back from the mile to line up in this event. The four-year-old has finished in the top five on four occasions from six starts.

Selections (5) Paradise King (8) Meni Queen (2) Darui Bada (3) Party Winner
Next Best 1, 6
Fast Start 1, 5, 8

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

The fourth on the card is by far the hardest race on the card to assess. With Seo Seung-Un suspended You Hyun-Myung has picked up a handy ride on (4) YEONGGWANGUI CHEER. The three-year-old has been racing well of late and backed up his maiden win with a runner-up performance in Class 5 company last time out. He has to carry the 57kg but he looks one of the main chances in a wide open race. (5) ROSE BULLET is another that backed up his maiden with a good performance when second behind Karin. Iaonnis Polluis will pilot the three-year-old from gate five which will suit his racing pattern. (7) PEACE RIDER placed last time out when third behind Daeho Jilju. He is yet to break maiden status but looks an each-way chance. (10) BAENGNICHONG was racing well before a break in weaker grade. The four-year-old has had a trial coming into this preparation.

Selections (4) Yeonggwangui Cheer (5) Rose Bullet (7) Peace Rider (10) Baengnichong
Next Best 6, 8
Fast Start 4, 5, 10

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

The fifth on the card has several chances with a field of eleven to line up over the six furlongs. (7) ULSAN JANGGUN has been thereabouts in this company at his past few starts and comes off a good performance behind Vega Thunder last time out. You Hyun-Myung will ride the three-year-old who should be an each-way price. (1) NAEGA SAEGANGJA goes into this race after trialing mid-June. The Hansen gelding won a Class 6 event last time out in good fashion and has never finished worse than fourth. (11) BAEJJANG saluted in similar company last time out and as a result has been elevated in the weight scale. He is every chance of winning again but the outside draw may prove problematic. (6) NEW JACK SWING retains the services of Choi Si-Dae after finishing fourth last time out. He looks a place chance at best. (more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 7)

There’s a big day of racing on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 races at Busan from 12:40 to 17:05. Here are the previews fro Seoul with Busan selections below:

Moon Se Young 3

Moon Se Young is back from suspension on Sunday and is likely to be among the winners

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Eight maidens line up in the first at Seoul over the 1300m. here appears to be a lack of speed engaged which looks to suit (3) NALARA HILL. The Seo In-Seok trained filly ran well last time out when second to Raon Khan over the six furlongs. The 1300m should be ideal for her and punters should expect Moon Sung-Hyeok to work forward on her early. (7) BAEKSAEK GWANGCHAE has been tried several times over the 1300m and has placed on multiple occasions. The grey colt is not the fastest away but if Kim Hyo-Jung can position him in the first half he will be one of the main players. (8) WONDERFUL PANGPANG showed early speed last time out. If the Chapel Royal filly can bounce out of the gates quick once again she may be able to hold on for a cheque. (5) CHEONJI AEGA is having her second race start in this race. Look for improvement.

Selections (3) Nalara Hill (7) Baeksak Gwangchae (8) Wonderful Pangpang (5) Cheonji Aega
Next Best 2, 1
Fast Start 3, 8

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

Leading rider Kim Yong-Geun looks to have a peach of a ride in the second. The lightly raced (6) O.K. DAY is having his fifth start in this assignment and looks hard to roll based on his recent form. The First Samurai colt went down less than a length las time out when running a handy time for this class on a dry track. Expect a positive ride and the four-year-old to be hard to reel in. (5) IL MARE has finished in the top four on four occasions from six starts. Alan Munro was rubbed out last time he went around but was aboard two starts back when the colt saluted. The Eurosilver three-year-old is another that likes to sit on speed. (2) ENDURANCE looks the best of the remainder after finishing second behind Barameul Geurida last time out. He was beaten a comfortable seven lengths on a wet track but has shown enough early on in his career to suggest he can figure. (7) FLYING JOY looks the best of the rest albeit a twenty start maiden.

Selections (6) O.K. Day (5) Il Mare (2) Endurance (7) Flying Joy
Next Best 9, 3
Fast Start 5m 7

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) 2yo Allowance / KRW 60 Million

We get to see another batch of two-year-olds having their first start in the third event on the card. Trial times (taking into account track conditions) are normally a very good guide to these events and there looks to be a couple of sharp ones in this event. (12) COMPLETE KINGDOM ran 1.01.8 on a good track in his 1000m trial which is just short of a second quicker than the remainder of the field in their respective trials. What made the trial even more impressive was the Colors Flying colt was not asked for entirely. He looks hard to beat. (8) CHOEGANG TEAM won his trial in good fashion. Moon Se-Young will partner the chestnut for his first run after a solid 1.02.8 trial mid-June. (5) RAON BEST MAN is another trial winner who overcame a wide draw in the trial. He will need to improve on that trial which is not out of the question. The owners seem to get some handy types. (9) LEGEND WIN ran a fair time on a rain affected track and should be kept safe in your novelty bets.

Selections (12) Complete Kingdom (8) Choegang Team (5) Raon Best Man (9) Legend Win
Next Best 10, 2
Fast Start 12, 9

Race 4: Class 5 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Another short course event will take place in the fourth with ten gallopers lining up at Class 5 level. (10) GEOM HYANG has improved at each of her starts since having her first run in February. The Clear Attempt filly blew them away last time out when leading throughout and going on to win by five lengths. (8) UTGE HAEJULGE is another that has been consistent early on in his career. The three-year-old won well last time out when winning by a massive eight lengths. Clear Geom ran a faster time on similar track conditions and therefore gets the nod over him. (5) ANYANG LEOPARD comes out of the same race as Utge Haejulge when finishing second. The four-year-old filly will carry just 51kg. (7) DRAGON BOAT was slightly disappointing last time out but can bounce back to a top four finish.

Selections (10) Geom Hyang (8) Utge Haejulge (5) Anyang Leopard (7) Dragon Boat
Next Best 3, 1, 2
Fast Start 2, 3, 7, 8

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

We found the form in the fifth harder to assess than a Mongolian camel race. (1) CHEONJI POKPUNG looks a main chance with Moon Se-Young being legged aboard. The three-year-old has just two top three finishes from eight starts but that form reads well in this race. (3) RECENT DREAM finished midfield last time out over the 1000m when hitting the line fairly. She will appreciate the step up to the 1300m with a bit more experience on her side. (6) HYEONGMA PUBU is second up after finishing well back last time out. Expect improvement with the run under her belt. (8) GAGANA is another that that may improve in a rather uninspiring race.

Selections (1) Cheonji Pokpung (3) Recent Dream (6) Hyeongma Pubu (8) Gagana
Next Best 4, 5
Fast Start 4

Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The sixth on the card has a field of ten and for the first time today, we’re going over the two turns. (6) SLING STONE looks one of the main chances engaged in a wide-open affair. He has been consistent in his seven starts to date and looks one that will appreciate the step up to the 1700m after hitting the line strong last time out. Look for Moon Se-Young to position the Raconteur three-year-old closer to the speed in this assignment. (4) RAON KHAN was a strong three length winner last time out over the 1200m. This is a significant step up but the son of Officer settled nicely last time out and should be considered an each-way chance. (5) ROYAL TANK is another that showed a reasonable turn of foot last time out when coming from last on the turn to finish fourth (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 5)

The summer season gets underway at Busan today with 9 races from 14:30 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Illumina

Busan Nights

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

Eight previously unraced juveniles make their racecourse debuts here. Catching the eye in the pedigree stakes is (7) TOP DAY. He’s the second foal out of 2013 Korean Derby winning filly Speedy First to make the track and the other one, Friday, is a winner of three from seven. Top Day trialed the fastest of these, albeit on a muddy track and is with top trainer Kim Young-kwan, so all signs point to him being a strong favourite. (4) YEONGSEONG BRAVO offered some hints of ability when further back in the same trial on June 8th and looks one of the most likely to challenge here. (5) MARK ONE and (8) YEONGWON DYNAMO are others who showed promise in their respective heats and could go well.

Selections (7) Top Day (5) Mark One (8) Yeongwon Dynamo (4) Yeongseong Bravo
Next Best 3, 1
Fast Start 1, 7, 8

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

(5) HIDDEN BOY has made steady progress across five starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over this distance on June 7th with a couple of his rivals here back down the track behind him. Lim Sung-sil partners him for the third time and today could be breakthrough day. (6) GRAND JILJU was sent up to a mile in late May and struggled to the extent that he was forced back to trial. He looked sharp when winning his heat in mid-June and back at 1300M today, he should be a different prospect. (4) WILD GUY improved considerably last start and can continue to make progress today. (3) ACRA and (9) BORYEONG HWANHO, the latter possibly appreciating the step up in trip, others to look out for.

Selections (5) Hidden Boy (6) Grand Jilju (3) Acra (4) Wild Guy
Next Best 9, 11
Fast Start 4, 6, 11

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

(4) STOLEN BEAUTY ran 3rd ahead of a couple of these over 1000M on June 14th. Bart Rice’s filly has looked to have been figuring things out in her last couple of starts and she steps up in distance for the first time today with a good chance of going very close, likely looking to lead all the way. (8) ZET KING was a slightly disappointing 4th when favourite over this distance three weeks ago. He previously has a 2nd place at this trip, albeit in muddy conditions, and can be given another chance on him here – Lee Hyo-sik, who rode him in his best finish to date, returns to the ride. (7) WONDERFUL SUPAH has shown some aptitude for this trip and can be in the palcing hunt while (10) RINGING FLYING has come home in 4th place in four of her last five outings – she could very well finish in the same position today.

Selections (4) Stolen Beauty (8) Zet King (7) Wonderful Supah (10) Ringing Flying
Next Best 1, 5
Fast Start 4, 6, 10

Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(1) AMOR FATI ran on very nicely indeed on debut over 1300M. Well back early, he ended up in 2nd place and the step up to a mile today looks set to suit. That’s true too for (4) DONGBANG NARAE, who finished off well for 2nd last start over 1300M and also stretches out in trip today for the first time. Both those will look to come from off the pace while the likely early leader is (5) ETERNAL TRON, whose best performance so far by some margin came at this distance in early May. It’s hard to see anything challenging him for the early lead so the only question is how well he stays on. (2) SUPER GREAT also ran creditably on his first attempt at the mile last start and can build on the 5th place he managed. (8) SILVER BEST is another trying the distance for the first time and who could slide into some minor money.

Selections (1) Amor Fati (4) Dongbang Narae (5) Eternal Tron (2) Super Great
Next Best 8, 6
Fast Start 5

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

(10) TRUE VALOR won three in a row in fine fashion between March and May enabling him to take his chance in the Minister’s Cup, the final leg of the Triple Crown, at Seoul three weeks ago. He was 7th over the 2000M that day, but back in trip here and back in more amenable company, he’s the one to beat. The main danger is (2) POWER AMAZING. He is yet to win at this class but comes in following a decent 2nd over this distance last time out and is well drawn to get to his preferred position at the head of the pack. (3) WHITE POINT finished 2nd behind True Valor over 1800M on May 3rd at lengthy odds and while inconsistent, could be a threat again today. (5) VEGA KHAN and the up in class last start winner (7) TEXAS SIDAE are others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections (10) True Valor (2) Power Amazing (7) Texas Sidae (3) White Point
Next Best 5, 9
Fast Start 1, 2, 10

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

(9) WONDERFUL TALE returned from seven months out to win well over 1000M on May 31st. She’s up in class and in distance here but neither should be too much of a concern and she can win again, likely trying to lead all the way. She’ll be joined on the early speed by (8) NEOLBEUN GOEUL, who similarly returned from a lengthy spell out to record his maiden win four weeks ago and comes up in both class and trip today with potential for more. (10) FINE TRUMPET was sent back to trial after being very reluctant to go to the barrier when a hot favourite over 1300M three weeks ago. He won the resulting heat and can be given another chance here. So too can (11) SUCHEOJAKJU, who was scarcely involved over 1000M two weeks ago but is better than that and can aim for the places here. (1) PERFECT ACE is another up in class following a maiden win on his latest start. Today’s assignment is considerably stiffer but he can be competitive.

Selections (9) Wonderful Tale (10) Fine Trumpet (8) Neolbeun Goeul (1) Perfect Ace
Next Best 11, 5
Fast Start 8, 9, 10

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

(2) ULTRA POWER comes in having made all to win by five-lengths at this distance on June 2nd. He’s up in class today but is accordingly very nicely weighted and with Seo Seung-un aboard again, can win again. (5) CHEONNYEONUIJILJU ran 5th behind unexpected winner (9) MYEONGSIN POWER on June 2nd. Thomas Gillespie’s colt is yet to win in nine attempts but has run 2nd on no fewer than five occasions and should be in at least the placing hunt again. (4) CEEYOUDOWNTHETRACK began his career very promisingly and while he seemed to have a bit of a wobble in March and April, he showed signs of returning to form with a 4th place last start and should figure here. (7) SUPER GOLD made a promising return from a lengthy absence at the end of May and is another who can go close. There is one debut-maker and with (1) SYDNEY MANGCHI being trained by Kim Young-kwan and having done nothing wrong in his trial, he has every chance of going well first-up. Watch the market for additional clues about him.

Selections (2) Ultra Power (4) Ceeyoudownthetrack (5) Cheonnyeonuijilju (1) Sydney Mangchi
Next Best 7, 9
Fast Start 2, 5, 8

Race 8: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(3) TOHAM ACE comes in here having won his latest three in an extremely pleasing manner. That’s sent him up to class 3 for the first time here and he’s also asked to stretch out to the 1800M for the first time. Both should be within his capability though and he looks the one to beat. It took (6) FIRST VICTORY a little while to figure things out but he’s won three of his seven to make it up to this class today. Crucially, he has experience of winning at this distance too and he’s a danger here. (1) FRIDAY has just gone off the boil a little in his latest two but returns after six weeks off and can be given another chance. (5) ALPHA RUNNER and (8) STORM GOLD are others whose respective latest appearances don’t reflect their true ability and they may go better here.

Selections (3) Toham Ace (6) First Victory (1) Friday (8) Storm Gold
Next Best 5, 4
Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 8

Race 9: Class 2 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(10) A PURE GOOD MAN beat four of these on his way to a two-length win over 1400M on May 19th. He carries an additional 3.5kg today but he’s won over this distance under similar in the past and he looks the one to beat again. (1) YES PERFECT is a winner of three from seven so far and comes on off a close 3rd place, less than a length behind the winner, in a similar race to this on June 9th. He was on pace for much of that race and should be again here with solid claims of going close. (2) CHERRY VANQUISH was an also-ran in the Ttukseom Cup over 1400M at Seoul last month but was a good class 3 winner prior to that. She tries the mile for the first time and is under a nice light weight. (12) MAKING SEUNGNI and (5) THUNDER FLY finished 4th and 5th behind A Pure Good Man last time out with just a nose separating them. Both should be competing for the places today.

Selections (10) A Pure Good Man (2) Cherry Vanquish (1) Yes Perfect (5) Thunder Fly
Next Best 12, 9
Fast Start 1, 4, 8, 10

Busan Mayor’s Sunday – Dolkong, Cheongdam Dokki, Moonhak Chief, New Legend: Race-By-Race Preview (June 30)

Dolkong is back and Korea’s Dubai World Cup Carnival is straight back in the deep-end as he faces a host of the nation’s top horses in the Busan Mayor’s Cup on Sunday afternoon. There are 6 races at Busan from 12:40 to 17:10 while in Seoul there are 11 from 10:45 to 18:00.

dolkong kra

Dolkong (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Dolkong will have thirteen for company in the race which is often described as the “Summer Grand Prix”. They include last year’s winner Cheongdam Dokki, who comes in having raced surprisingly flat in the YTN Cup last month. That race was won by Moonhak Chief, the up and coming four-year-old, in a dominant performance that may well earn him favourite status here. Also going is New Legend and the ever-reliable Shamrocker.

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

A field of twelve line up over the short course in the first including five debutants with trial form to dissect. (12) NONGBUI SUCHEAHWA handed in one of the better trial performances over the 1000m. The filly bounced out of barrier eight and sat three wide before going down a head. She ran 1.02.2 when ridden hands and heels in sloppy conditions. (8) KOOKA CAT is having her third start and drops back to the 1000m after failing to run a strong six furlongs. His debut run over the 1000m was reasonable and this looks a weaker assignment. (5) DASI DUSON finished second in her qualifying trial. She ran a slow time albeit on a dry track when going down a nose. She had more up her sleeve and can provide a forward showing. (7) GOLD HERO looks the best of the rest in an inexperienced field.

Selections (12) Nongbui Sucheahwa (8) Kooka Cat (5) Dasi Duson (7) Gold Hero
Next Best 10, 6
Fast Start 3, 5, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Not too often we find a Class 5 event as competitive as this event where a case can be made for more than half of the field. (9) RUNNING BOX ran the arms off the clock at her second start when running 59.2 for the 1000m. She is having just her third start and the speedy type finished second over the 1300m at her first start suggesting the 1200m should be ideal. (5) BIG PRO is another that possesses early speed. He looks well weighted in this and from gate five expect the colt to work forward. (4) GENERAL ROSE is yet to finish worse than fourth from four career starts. The consistent type will settle in the leading division and is an each-way chance. (10) SIMON QUEEN broke through at odds last time out when sitting on speed for Moon Se-Young. Kim Hyo-Jung takes over today as the filly has her first run in Class 5 company.

Selections (9) Running Box (5) Big Pro (4) General Rose (10) Simon Queen
Next Best 3, 7
Fast Start 4, 5, 6, 9, 10

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

Plenty of chances line up in the thirds where a field of twelve will go over the 1300m. (4) JANGGUNUI SIDAE ran on strongly last time out when coming from the tail over 1300m. The in-form Lim Gi-Won will have his first ride on the filly who may be able to settle closer with a better draw today. (5) KING OF EAGLE went over the 1700m last time out when feeling the pinch after trying to lead throughout. The three-year-old ran some fair performances over 1300m prior to last start and can figure in this event. (6) NAE GIRUI BIT has placed at his past two runs over the 1300m. The chestnut has to carry 56kg but his consistency should get him a long way in this type of race. (1) GEUMSUNI STAR is another that’ drops back from the 1700m after failing to run on. The Menifee colt placed behind Set The Pace two starts back over the 1300m.

Selections (4) Janggunui Sidae (5) King Of Eagle (6) Nae Girui Bit (10) Geumsuni Star
Next Best 8, 12
Fast Start 5, 6, 10, 12

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

Another field of twelve Class 6 gallopers will go over the 1300m in the fourth on the card. Once again it appears a rather open event with (3) FAMILY PARK looking one of the main chances. The filly is having just her third start coming off a much improved third behind Hwanggeum Doyaji last time out. Alan Munro is back in action this week and will ride her again after he piloted her last start. (2) TO THE VICTORY has placed on two occasions from seven career starts. The Raconteur filly sat third in the run last time out when having to come across from a wide draw. She has finished in the top four her past two starts and with the right run can figure. (4) YAHO M J CAT ran on fairly last time out to pick up a cheque. The Chapel Royal filly may appreciate stepping back up to the 1300m with more maturity on her side. (1) MANSEOK JIGI looks the best of the rest in a race where there could be some large place dividends.

Selections (3) Family Park (2) To The Victory (4) Yaho M J Cat (1) Manseok Jigi
Next Best 11, 12
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 4, 6

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

A compact field of eight line up in the fifth where they will go over two turns. Last start runner-up (6) SUPER DOKKI looks hard to beat after showing a brilliant turn of foot in similar company last time out. The Animal Kingdom gelding finished behind Uri who looks a nice type going forward. (1) DAEGUN ILGAL resumes from a spell and has placed on three occasions from five career starts. The US import has had a trial coming into this preparation suggesting he will be fit enough. The barrier is a slight concern as he has minimal early speed suggesting he could get shuffled back on the fence. (4) MIGHTY WING ran a better race last time out for the Italian jockey Manuel Porcu. The colt sat on speed before going down a narrow margin behind Fast Fashion. (8) UP LIGHT ran on strongly last time out when the race was all over. Expect him to drop out early once again.

Selections (6) Super Dokki (1) Daegun Ilgal (4) Mighty Wing (8) Up Light
Next Best 5, 7
Fast Start 4

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) MAGIC FLYING has raced creditably in four goes at this class since getting his maiden win in February, including to 3rd place to Rock Choice, who won the Minister’s Cup two weeks ago and looks to have a real chance here. (7) GRAND YEONGUNG and (10) EL DRAGON are both up in class having registered maiden wins on their respective latest outings. Both should be competitive at this class with Grand Yeongung perhaps having scope for more rapid improvement at this stage but he is untried at the distance. (3) BUSAN BOLT and (9) EOMJI CHEOK are others with placing chances.

Selections (7) Grand Yeongung (5) Magic Flying (10) El Dragon (9) Eomji Cheok
Next Best 3, 2
Fast Start 6, 7, 8

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

A lack of speed is engaged in the fifth and the beneficiary appears to be (9) STRONG VULTURE. Alan Munro will have his first ride on the three-year-old who comes off a (more…)