SPEED YOUNG has spent most of his career playing second-fiddle to stablemate Global Hit but that wasn’t the case in last year’s Busan Owners’ Cup, and it won’t be this time either as the defending champion will be favourite when he takes on fifteen rivals on Sunday afternoon (1600M KOR-G3).SEE HERE FOR A FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 RACES ACROSS SEOUL AND BUSAN ON SUNDAY.
Can Wonpyeong Storm step up? (Pic: KRA)
A successful defence for Speed Young will require him to overcome some very promising younger horses. WONPYEONG STORM won his first five races before being well beaten when sent in against the elite in the first leg of the Stayer Series over 2000M in March. That proved to be too much too soon but after a couple of months rest, he returned to win at this distance in May, and he should be a different prospect here.
Fellow three-year-old FINAL K has won five from six and is also an exciting prospect while DESPITE WIN, a year older, has won five from nine and bog things are expected.
Among the more established rivals, SUCCESS BAEKPA and BLACK MAMBA are done no favours by the draw but their quality can see them in the mix, while BLACK MUSK is the wildcard. He can blow hot or cold but on his day is as good as any.
The Busan Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) is the concluding race 6 on Sunday’s card at Busan with a local post time of 16:30. There are also 11 Sunday races at Seoul.
1. DESPITE WIN – Winner of five from nine in total including twice at this distance. Comes off a class 1 (rating capped at 95) win at 2000M on May 30th and while this is a big step up in quality, can be competitive. Seo Seung-un rides.
2. FINAL K – Only defeat came behind Wonpyeong Storm over 1200M last November. Most recently won a Trophy race for three-year-olds in April over 1800M, settling handy and running on. Big step up in grade but loads of potential.
3. WONPYEONG STORM – The Herald Business proved too much too soon in March but after a couple of months off, he returned to winning ways at a mile at Class 1. High ceiling and a big chance.
4. BYEOLNARA JILJU – Lowest rated in the race, he only beat one home in last month’s Busan Mayor’s Cup, and he will be one of the longest shots on the board again.
5. BOLT MAN – A multiple winner at class 1 including over this distance. He was well back in the first two legs of the Stayer Series though and this isn’t much easier.
6. NAOL SNIPER – Always runs in top class company and was 6th of fourteen here in last month’s Busan Mayor’s Cup. Form to overturn here but at his best can be a place chance.
7. BLACK MUSK – Graded race winner who mixes his form. He was huge 2nd in SBS Sports Sprint in April before struggling in the SROA Chairman’s Sprint last month. First go at a mile since running midfield in this race three years ago. Third-up so may be peaking.
The Busan Owners’ Cup headlines Sunday racing. The final Group race until August is the concluding event on the 6-race program at Busan which runs from 12:05 to 16:30. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Speed Young will be favourite to successfully defend his Owners’ Cup crown (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive maiden with three of the eleven racing for the first time. (4) RAON THE BIG RED went back to trial between his first and second starts and was much improved in the latter, running 3rd at this distance on May 25th. Third up he can be peaking and from a good draw, he can win. (8) AFLEET RUN has four top five finishes from his five outings to date with his best being a 2nd place at this distance in March. He should be on pace here and can be in this a long way. Among the first timers, (2) MUJEHAN GEUP looks the most likely to make an immediate impact based on trials. Returning to the experience, (7) BEST DREAM and (10) SPICE BAND may improve.
Selections
(4) Raon The Big Red (8) Afleet Run (2) Mujehan Geup (7) Best Dream
Next Best
10, 6
Fast Start
1, 6, 7, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (7) GYEOUL JANGMI enters off a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at 1300M and both times settling midfield and running on. The step up to 1400M can suit and she is the one to beat here. The danger is (10) CLUB Q. She has a 3rd and a 2nd in her two outings, the latter at 1300M on June 1sr. She too has been doing her best work late and third up she can be peaking. (11) WONDERFUL CATHAY was an improved 3rd at start number five when tried at this distance for the first time on May 24th and while she has the challenge of the widest gate, she can build on that here. (9) GEOLJAK CHUKJE and (2) TRIPLE JENNY among plenty of others in the placing frame.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) KING WARRIOR got his maiden win two outings back at this distance and followed up with a solid 4th place at 1400M on his first try at this class on May 18th when he led for much of the way around. He is fairly weighted, draws well to lead, and cut slightly back in trip he can go all the way. (7) YEONGGWANGUI SKY had been building towards a maiden win, and it duly arrived on May 25th when he led all the way over 1200M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but he is down in weight, and he can measure up. (4) POWER BAND has a 3rd and a 4th from his latest two, both at this class over 1400M and under a light weight she can be there or thereabouts again. (8) SONE SONJABGO and (3) FREE TIME are the other minor money chances.
Selections
(2) King Warrior (7) Yeonggwangui Sky (4) Power Band (8) Sone Sonjabgo
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 7
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. After an ordinary debut, (11) GRAND MORE was a significantly improved 2nd at start number two on May 16th, leading for most of the way and only going down very narrowly. He needs to navigate the widest gate but if he gets to the front he will be difficult to pass. (4) WORLD TOP TIER was a creditable 3rd on debut over 1200M on May 23rd. She should have come on for that run and shapes as the main danger. Among the first timers, (7) CHAMPUI SIDAE ran 3rd in a fair time in a trial in late May and if she brings that form to the races, she can be competitive first up. (5) JIJONSANBANG also hinted at ability across two heats and can be considered. Returning to experienced ones, (3) OWNER CHAMP is perhaps the next most likely to improve.
Selections
(11) Grand More (4) World Top Tier (7) Champui Sidae (5) Jijonsanbang
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
1, 4, 8, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(6) FUNNY TAP raced twice last autumn for one win over this distance and then didn’t re-appear until May. She looked very good on her return, finishing 2nd at this class and distance on May 24th. She should strip fitter for that run, and she will be a hot favourite to go one better here. It’s been a while since (8) SOLAIRE got his solitary win, but he comes in with recent form reading well with a 3rd, a 2nd, and a 4th from his latest three, most recently behind Funny Tap in that May 24th race. He likes to come from off the pace, and he can be a danger late here. (5) GANDAGO was a winner at this class over 1400M two starts back and while he can mix his form, can be in the finish again. (2) GROW, a big price winner at this class last time, along with (4) ARCH RUNNER, are other place chances.
Selections
(6) Funny Tap (8) Solaire (5) Gandago (2) Grow
Next Best
4, 1
Fast Start
3, 4, 6, 9
Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(8) BITNARA has run 3rd in both his latest two at 1300M and 1400M, racing close to the pace both times. He can be on pace here again and is favoured to go one better against this set of opposition. (9) SEOUL NONGBU has a 5th and a 4th from his two outings so far, most recently at this distance in a very slow race on March 30th. He comes in fresh after thirteen weeks out and can go closer. (4) RAON THE BELMONT came home in 3rd place on his latest start on May 18th despite racing ungenerously for much of the way. He was sent back to trial as a result and having come through that well, with better manners here, he can be a threat. (2) BULGUKSIDAE and (6) X FACTOR others in the frame.
Selections
(8) Bitnara (9) Seoul Nongbu (4) Raon The Belmont (2) Bulguksidae
Next Best
6, 11
Fast Start
2, 5, 7, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Not the strongest of maidens. (10) MALSGO comes in off a best to date 2nd place on May 24th over this distance when handy throughout. He is the only one in the field to have placed – he has done it twice – and despite the wide draw he should have enough about him to get to the speed and win. (5) GOLD SPINNING was an improved 4th at start four over 1200M on May 11th and can continue to make progress here. (2) GANGCHEOL POWER comes back in trip after recent efforts at further including two 4th places form his latest four and that’s enough to put him in the placing mix here. (7) ROAD TO SPEAR and (4) BLUE DRAGON others who could feature.
Selections
(10) Malsgo (5) Gold Spinning (2) Gangcheol Power (7) Road To Spear
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Small but quite competitive field. (3) HEEMANGBAND has recorded her best results so far since stepping up to this distance with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two. She likes to settle back and run on and with Moon Se-young aboard for the first time, today can be the day. (4) SEUNGNI BAROWS enters off back-to-back 3rd places over 1400M, coming from off the pace both times. He steps up to two turns for the first time and it can suit. (6) BLUE SUN has two 5th places and a 3rd from his three outings to date. He too comes up to this trip for the first time and can be a danger late on. (7) BLACK SMILE and (8) TTOSUNI SEOUL need lines through their respective latest outings but can be in the placing frame.
Selections
(3) Heemangband (4) Seungni Barows (6) Blue Sun (7) Black Smile
Next Best
8, 1
Fast Start
4, 6, 7, 8
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(4) DRAGON KILLER is yet to win in four attempts but has never finished any worse than 3rd. That’s where he finished on his first try at this class over 1300M on June 1st having led for part of the way around, and he has every chance here. (11) WESTERN GUN has mixed his form across six starts so far with three strong performances and three somewhat less so. He hasn’t raced at this trip before but looks worth a chance in this company. (3) JOSE was an all the way maiden winner on June 6th at this class and distance. She is up 2.5kg in weight, but that’s balanced by a good draw, and she can be a danger again. (7) GOOD FIGHTER and (2) GEOSEON POKJU others to consider.
Selections
(4) Dragon Killer (11) Western Gun (3) Jose (7) Good Fighter
Next Best
2, 9
Fast Start
3, 5, 9, 11
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Friday’s racing is at Busan with 8 races from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) SHACKLE SUN has picked up in his latest two, with a 2nd and a 4th place at 1300M and at this distance. From a good draw, he can get a soft run to the lead here, and he can win this. (6) SEUNGCHUNHANEUNHAE is second up following four months off and has already beaten plenty of these. He should strip fitter for his May run and go close. (10) CRUELLA enters off a best to date 3rd place at this distance on May 25th when racing handy throughout. She had a similarly wide gate that day and she can be a danger here. (11) FLYING ICE has nine top five finishes from seventeen starts so far including a 3rd place at this distance. His recent work has been over a mile so he may appreciate the drop back in trip and can be there or thereabouts again. (7) REAL RESPECT another in the hunt.
Selections
(4) Shackle Sun (6) Seungchunhaneunhae (10) Cruella (11) Flying Ice
Next Best
7, 8
Fast Start
4, 6, 8, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 30 Million
(1) STUKA has two 3rd place finishes and a 4th from his four starts so far, that latter coming when sent off as favourite over a mile on May 30th. He comes back to 1400M for the first time, draws well to lead, and he can go all the way. (7) MEANINGFUL TIME enters off a close 2nd place at start number three over this distance on May 4th when racing on pace. Seo Seung-un stays aboard and he should be a big danger here. (6) SUN LIGHT has a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, coming from well off the pace both times and she can be involved late on again here. (3) LIKE DRAGON and (5) WIND ROSE are among plenty of others who have hinted at ability.
Selections
(1) Stuka (7) Meaningful Time (6) Sun Light (3) Like Dragon
Next Best
5, 9
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 8
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(1) STAR FORCE laid in for the final 300M last time out over this distance on May 18th to the extent she got sent back to trial. It didn’t stop her from finishing a close 2nd though and having come through the trial, if she behaves herself this time, she can win. (2) DIA MATE stepped up to this distance for the first time on June 13th and registered her best finish so far with a 3rd place coming from off the pace. She makes a quick return and can build on that here. (5) BORYEONGJEOKTOMA has beaten a few of these in his latest two, both times running 3rd at this distance and he can be there or thereabouts again. (10) GRACE CAL and (3) HOUND POKER, both tackling the mile for the first time, are others to consider.
Selections
(1) Star Force (2) Dia Mate (5) Boryeongjeoktoma (10) Grace Cal
Next Best
3, 11
Fast Start
1, 8, 9, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) INDY GHOST stepped up to this distance on April 18th and got her maiden win on what was her fifth career start, leading all the way. It was at this class, so she comes up 3kg in weight, but she draws nicely to lead again, and she can repeat. (5) YURIM SKY was a maiden winner over a mile two starts back, before running a solid 2nd on his first try at this class and distance on May 30th. He can settle behind the speed here and can be in the finish again. (4) TOHAMSAN TAEYANG ran in the Korean Oaks in May and then beat a couple of these on her return to shallower waters at a mile on June 8th. She continues under a light weight, and she can be in the mix. (3) FLYING THE KHAN and (8) PHANTOM KING others in the frame.
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juveniles with eight of the ten racing for the first time. Pegasus Farm’s Air Force Blue is an exciting addition to the stallion ranks and their home bred (5) AIRFORCEONE makes his debut here. He looked very assured when comfortably winning a trail on May 29th from the front and if he brings that form to the races, he will be hard to beat. (10) JILPUNGA rana fair 5th on debut on May 31st. The time wasn’t quick, but the actual race experience should be beneficial, and he can improve here. (1) ANYANGBITCHUISOKDO ran 2nd in his trial and from the inside gate can be on pace and put in a bold showing. (2) MADE and (3) SAENAE FIGHTER others who hinted at ability in trials.
Selections
(5) Airforceone (10) Jilpunga (1) Anyangbitchuisokdo (2) Made
Next Best
3, 7
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 5
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (9) GLORY QUEEN was 2nd when sent off as favourite over this distance on May 11th, continuing a run of positive efforts. She laid out for part of the race to the extent she got sent back to trial, but if she can behave herself today, she should go one better. (3) NESSUN DORMA raced three times last year with a best of 4th. She’s not raced since last September but she looked very well when 2nd in a May trial (beating Glory Queen) and if she brings that form to the races, she can be a danger first-up. (2) JISAN FRIEND has hinted at ability across her four starts so far and drawn well, she should be at least a place chance. (4) SEOHAE BADA and debut-maker (10) SONGDANG PARTY others who could have a say.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Could today finally be the day for (7) MIGHTY BOM? He has placed ten times without winning including last time out when 2nd at this class and distance on May 25th, coming from off the pace. An apprentice keeps his weight low, and he has as good a chance as any. (4) WANGCHOEGO is also a maiden but comes in after a sharp class and distance 2nd on May 10th and should be in the mix again. (8) WONDERFUL TECHNO races for the first time since getting his maiden win at 1700M last July and a chip fracture. He has been in and out of work since February but got his act together finally with a solid trail win last Thursday. So long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can go well first up. (6) CALIPH and (10) ARCH DAY, the latter needing a line through his latest, others in the frame.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(11) CYCLONE STAR has won his latest two, both over this distance, and most recently at this class on April 26th when settling midfield and running on. He comes up 3kg in weight, and has the challenge of the widest gate, but a hat-trick can’t be ruled out. (2) STUNNING WORLD is yet to win in seven attempts but has been getting ever closer, culminating in a 2nd place over 1300M on May 18th. That brings her up in class here, but she comes down in weight, she draws well, and she can measure up. (5) FLYING CONCORD returned nine months after his debut to win at this distance on April 20th. He is up in class but down in weight and if anything, should strip fitter for that April run. (1) ECLIPSE LUCKY and (10) DUSON EUTTEUM others who can challenge.
Selections
(11) Cyclone Star (2) Stunning World (5) Flying Concord (1) Eclipse Lucky
Next Best
10, 9
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 5
Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Friday’s racing is at Busan with 8 races from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (4) AREUMDAUNNALDEUL ran 6th on debut and has followed up with back-to-back 3rd places at 1300M and 1200M in contrasting styles. Seo Seung-un stays on and from today’s draw, she can be expected to be on-pace from the start, and she can win. (8) SEONGSIL WORLD has shown progress across three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place in a similar race over this distance on May 18th. Franco gets on for the first time, and she can be a danger. She will need to overturn the form on (11) SEUNGNI YEYAK who was a much-improved 2nd in that May 18th race, coming from off the pace. She has the challenge of the widest gate but can be in the finish again. (10) BREEDO QUEEN STAR and (5) QUEEN RACE, the latter an all the way trial winner since her latest start, others to consider.
Selections
(4) Areumdaunnaldeul (8) Seongsil World (11) Seungni Yeyak (10) Breedo Queen Star
Next Best
5, 6,
Fast Start
1, 4, 5, 6
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) BUGYEONG TRIPLE beat a couple of these on his way to a best to date 2nd place over 1300M on May 11th. The step up to 1400M can suit and he has every chance of going one better this time. (1) COME ON GLORY was 5th in that race but has since recorded a 2nd of his own on May 30th when settling midfield and running on over a mile. From the inside gate, Franco can pick his spot, and they can be challenging late. (6) JADE PALACE ran a solid 5th on debut over 1200M on May 23rd, racing handy throughout. She should have come in for that run and with some natural improvement, she can get closer today. (2) TEUTA and (5) WORLD TAEYANG among plenty of others with placing chances.
Selections
(4) Bugyeong Triple (1) Come on Glory (6) Jade Palace (2) Teuta
Next Best
5, 11
Fast Start
4, 6, 9, 10
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) SHOOT FOR THE MOON got her maiden win at start two over 1300M on May 2nd before running 2nd on her first try at this class on June 1st when she settled midfield and ran on. She is up 2kg in weight, but the step up to 1400M can suit, and she can prove too strong late on. (3) CHOEGANG TRIPLE got his maiden win two starts back over 1200M and then finishes a solid 4th at 1200M on May 23rd when handy throughout. He looks the logical early leader here and he can be in this a long way. (7) TEAM SURPRISE is still a maiden but had a spin round in the Oaks last month. She has multiple places and this class and while she may find one or two too quick again, she can be in the mix. (11) BURUI TONGCHI and (4) GLOBAL HEROINE other place chances.
Selections
(2) Shoot For The Moon (3) Choegang Triple (7) Team Surprise (11) Burui Tongchi
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 10
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Seo Seung-un continues his very promising book of rides with (4) SO GOOD. A winner at start four over 1200M in March, he was 2nd on his first try at this class over 1300M on April 11th, coming from off the pace and with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He comes in fresh following ten weeks out and he shapes as the one to beat. (1) ROAD TO PARTY races for the first time since last November, having had a chip fracture. He looks very well when 2nd in a quick trial in May and he can be a danger first up here. (5) KING FIGHTER was a beaten favourite when 4th over 1300M on May 16th. From a good draw he can be on the speed here and is worth another chance. (6) RACE MAN and (7) TAEYANG EUTTEUM others in the frame.
Selections
(4) So Good (1) Road To Party (5) King Fighter (6) Race Man
Next Best
7, 10
Fast Start
5, 6, 10, 11
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
There is a Triple Crown on the line at Seoul on Sunday when Oasis Blue makes his run for glory in the Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G2). There are 11 races at Seoul on Sunday from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:05 to 16:35. Here are the previews:
Oasis Blue (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (6) WINNER GLORY returned from over three months out to run a much-improved 2nd at this distance on May 4th, racing handy throughout. Expect similar tactics today and she won’t need to progress very much to win this. (7) RAON THE CAVIAR enters off back-to-back 3rd places at this distance, racing handy both times. She’ll be behind the speed again and can be in the finish. She will need to overturn form on (1) CRAZY MARI, who beat her as the pair finished 2nd and 3rd respectively in a similar race to this on April 12th. Crazy Mari returns for the first time since, and she should be in the mix. (4) LADYBIRD and (2) SOON LIKE others who can compete for the minors.
Selections
(6) Winner Glory (7) Raon The Caviar (1) Crazy Mari (4) Ladybird
Next Best
2, 3
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 6
Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(6) VINCERO CUE had been working his way to his maiden win, and it duly arrived over this distance on April 12th when on pace throughout. He comes up in class but is down in weight and in fresh after nine weeks out, he can measure up. It’s been a while since (4) SEGWANG JILJU got his maiden win, but he has been coming back into form recently, and was a front-running 2nd last start at this class and distance. He will be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (5) QUEEN ABIGAIL enters off a 3rd place at this class and distance on May 17th, coming from off the pace and she should be there or thereabouts again. (9) ALL NUT and (10) SAMGIM DAEPYO are the other minor money chances.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(1) GOLD QUEENS has been a beaten odds-on favourite in both of her latest outings at 1200M and 1300M, running 2nd both times. She is yet to finish any worse than 4th in her five career starts and from another good draw, she can make it third time lucky. (2) HAKSAN CAIRO is yet to win in ten attempts but has never been outside of the top five. He has a 2nd and a 4th in two tries at this distance and while he may once more find one too quick, he can be in the mix again. (4) MAX PARTY has a win and a 2nd from his last two starts and while that means he carries his fair share of weight, he can be a danger once more. (8) GRACE ROUTE and (3) VINCERO KING other place chances.
Selections
(1) Gold Queens (2) Haksan Cairo (4) Max Party (8) Grace Route
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 8
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After doing nothing on debut, (9) VICTORY STORY has run 4th in both his subsequent starts, both at 1200M and in contrasting styles. Munro stays in, the slight step up in trip can suit, and he has as good a chance as any here. (4) LION MAGIC has finished between 2nd and 5th in each of his four starts so far and has actually beaten Victory Story as well as a couple of the others who go here. He can settle behind the pace and big a big danger late on. There is one debut-maker. (8) POWER STONE led all the way in a May trial, stopping the clock in a fair time, and if he brings that form to the races, he can be competitive first up. (6) JUST SHINY and (11) GOLDEN CARD are the others to consider.
Selections
(9) Victory Story (4) Lion Magic (8) Power Stone (6) Just Shiny
Next Best
11, 10
Fast Start
2, 7, 9, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(9) ACAPEL returned from five months out on May 11th and duly won over 1300M, settling midfield and running on. She comes up 2.5kg in weight, but she should strip fitter for that run, the 1400M can suit, and she can follow up here. (8) STUNNING FLATTER is the main danger. Two starts back in February, he beat three of these on his way to a front-running 2nd at this class and distance and then ran 5th in slightly stiffer company on his return on May 18th. He has the fastest final furlong average time in the field and will be running on strong. (4) POWER BAND has a win and a 3rd from her two tries at this distance, the latter coming at this class on May 31st. She makes a quick return and can be in the mix again. (1) J ONE POWER and (5) WONDERFUL SPIRIT others in the frame.
Selections
(9) Acapel (8) Stunning Flatter (4) Power Band (1) J One Power
Next Best
5, 3
Fast Start
3, 4, 7, 9
Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(1) BLAZING MAN was a class and distance winner two starts back before running a disappointing 7th when stepped up to 1800M last time out, starting badly and never really look like being a threat. He comes back to a trip at which he has two wins and two places, he draws much better and even gets a slight weight drop. (3) RAON THE MASKE is up in class having won over 1400M on May 11th when on pace all the way. He is up to a mile for the first time but is down in weight and can more than measure up. (5) ROCK AND ROLL had gone a bit cold but hinted at a return to form when 3rd at this distance on May 30th. He likes to come from off the pace and can be a danger late here. (7) STELL LUNA and (6) YEONGGWANGUIHAMSUNG others to consider on a place line.
Selections
(1) Blazing Man (3) Raon The Maske (5) Rock And Roll (7) Stell Luna
Next Best
6, 2
Fast Start
1, 3, 7, 8
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
There are 9 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(10) LOVE SCARLET debuted all the way back in January 2024 but then didn’t appear again this March. She has a 4th and a 2nd in two starts back, both at this distance and most recently on April 6th, coming from off the pace. She has had a further ten weeks off since, but the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can be a big danger late here. (2) PERFECT DANAEUN has mixed his form across five starts so far with his best being a 4th. He races for the first time since March but looked sensational when winning a trial at the end of May, leading all the way and stopping the clock in a fast time, many lengths to the good. So long as she didn’t leave her race there, she has every chance. There is one first-timer. (5) SILLAUI FIGHTER posted a fair time in his trial and with Moon Se-young booked will have backers. (1) HAEMAJI and (9) CLAIR BIG BANG other place chances.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
The second division of the 1300M maiden. It’s hard to go past (2) DONGJIN THUNDER here. She has a best of 2nd from six starts recorded at this distance three outings back when setting a time considerably quicker than any of the others have achieved. She draws nicely to be on pace, and she will take some beating. (10) BEST JOY did nothing on debut last August after which he was put away and gelded. He has been back in training for a couple of months and looked a totally different prospect when 2nd in a May trial. He can go well first-up here. (9) NAEGEROWAJWO was an improved 4th last time out and can maintain that momentum in this modest company. (1) HERO GOLD and (4) SOMETHING DARK others in the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Dongjin Thunder (10) Best Joy (9) Naegerowajwo (1) Hero Gold
Next Best
4, 5
Fast Start
2, 5, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) BLACK SATANG has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far, the latter being a close reverse at this distance on June 1st. She makes a quick return here, third-up she can be peaking fitness wise, and she can go one better. (5) EUNPA SWEET stepped up to this distance at start five on May 18th and came from off the pace to beat three of today’s rivals on her way to a best to date 3rd. She should have benefited from that experience and can go even closer today. (9) DYNAMIC SONG was 5th in that same race and can similarly aim to get a bit nearer here. (1) ECLIPSE TANGO and (4) COMMANDING LEAD others who can be backed on a place line.
Selections
(3) Black Satang (5) Eunpa Sweet (9) Dynamic Song (1) Eclipse Tango
Next Best
4, 2
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 6
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies only here. (5) CHARMING QUEEN ran 2nd on debut in April before getting her maiden win at start number two over this distance on May 11th, settling midfield before striking the front just over a furlong out and winning by plenty. She is up in class but down in weight and she can win again. It’s been a long time since (7) YEOWANG SOCKS got her sole win, but her recent form reads well and going on her last start 3rd place over 1400M, she should be in this from on the pace. (4) VIVA CHEONGSU came from well back to run 3rd last time out at class and distance and should be in the mix again. (9) RAON THE AFFIRMED and up in class (2) SONEULNAEMILEO others in the hunt.
There is a Triple Crown on the line at Seoul on Sunday but in the meantime, the weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Eight juveniles racing for the first time. (1) DOCTOR CENTUM is the only trial winner among them, scoring in his heat from the front and stopping the clock in a fair time. He draws well to lead again and can go all the way first up. (7) BEOLMAUI GANGJA registered the fastest trial time among these, coming from off the pace to run 3rd and looking competent enough. He will dispute favourite status here. (4) SOMANGUIGIL went through two trials with a front-running 2nd in the first of them and then a midfield position in a quicker time from a wide draw in the second. On that showing he can play a part here. (6) CARAT KING and (3) HEY BROTHER others who hinted at ability in the morning.
Selections
(1) Doctor Centum (7) Beolmaui Gangja (4) Somanguigil (6) Carat King
Next Best
3, 5
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 7
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (1) PURE MARINE returned from three months out to win an improved 3rd over this distance on May 11th. She should strip fitter for that run and from the inside gate can be on pace and is the one to beat. (5) NAMYANG RUBY has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record although they were both recorded before a five-month layoff. She hasn’t shown much in two starts back, but third-up she can be peaking fitness wise and can show her old form in this limited company. (8) WONDER MOCCASIN also has a 3rd place at this distance and that’s enough to make her a place chance here. (11) WORLD TRIPLE CAT and (2) GAMDONGUI DOLPA the other chances.
Selections
(1) Pure Marine (5) Namyang Ruby (8) Wonder Moccasin (11) World Triple Cat
Next Best
2, 9
Fast Start
1, 4, 5, 7
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(8) HEAVY DUTY was a much-improved 2nd when stepped up to this distance for the first time on May 30th, leading all the way and beating three of today’s rivals. He should have benefited from that experience and won’t need to improve much to win this. (3) STORM POINT has been getting closer across his nine starts and enters off his best to date with 3rd at 1400M on May 9th, racing handy and running on. He comes up to the mile for the first time and it can suit. (6) FLYING ICE was 5th behind Heavy Duty in that May 30th race. He has a lot of experience at this distance and should be challenging for the places here. (1) DIA MATE and (5) GOLDEN SPOT others in the hunt.
Selections
(8) Heavy Duty (3) Storm Point (6) Flying Ice (1) Dia Mate
Next Best
5, 2
Fast Start
3, 7, 8, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(7) YULIM SEASANG was a winner at this class and distance two starts back when leading all the way, before running 4th, ahead of a couple of today’s rivals, on May 9th when leading into the closing stages. Seo Seung-un, who has ridden him to both of his wins, returns to the mount, and he can win here. (4) QUEEN TYCHE is up in class following a 2nd place at 1200M on May 18th when overcoming gate 10. She laid in to such an extent that she was sent back to trial which she came through in fine fashion and, under a light weight, if she behaves herself, she can be a danger. (1) GOLDEN AIR was found to be slightly lame after her underwhelming latest effort. She gets a class drop here and while that means a hefty weight rise, she can be close. (6) BUSAN TODAY and (8) AMAZING BOSS are the other place chances.
Selections
(7) Yulim Sesang (4) Queen Tyche (1) Golden Air (6) Busan Today
Next Best
8, 5
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 7
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Next weekend all eyes will be on Oasis Blue’s attempt to become the first three-year-old since Power Blade almost a decade ago to sweep all three-legs of the Triple Crown. This Sunday at Seoul Racecourse, Fantastic Value has the opportunity to become the third filly in four years to claim the Triple Tiara as she starts the hot favourite for the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3).SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 SUNDAY RACES ACROSS SEOUL AND BUSAN.
Fantastic Value and Oneuldo Smile were 1st and 2nd in the Oaks and meet again (Pic: KRA(
After winning the Luna Stakes and the Korean Oaks in 2022, Golden Power successfully completed the set with victory in the Gyeonggi while a year later Jeulgeounyeojeong did the same. Having pulled off dominant victories in both the Luna and the Oaks, FANTASTIC VALUE should be joining them.
All of the top five in the Oaks return with runner-up ONEULDO SMILE the probable second-favourite. Having skipped the Luna, she entered the Oaks with a perfect four from four record but while she led for much of the way, she was powerless to stop Fantastic Value from sweeping by and was five-lengths in arrears on the line.
CC Wong will be aboard Oneuldo Smile once more and it will be interesting to see whether they employ the same tactics and lead again.
BORYEONGLIGHTQUEEN was 3rd in both the Oaks and the Luna and should be in at least the placing mix again, while a newcomer to the Series is ROCK CANDY. The Bart Rice trainee gets her chance having won two of her last three up to class 5 and a mile and her running style suggests that she could be a filly who can make the step up in trip.
The Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup is race 7 on the 9-race Sunday card at Seoul.
1. FLASH RUN – Only win came in maiden company at 1300M but she was a good 5th in the Oaks as the longest shot on the board and from the widest gate. Further improvement is possible.
2. BORYEONGLIGHTQUEEN – 3rd in both the Luna and Oaks but she has won over 1800M. Hard to see her overturning the form on Fantastic Value but shapes as a place chance and the additional trip can suit.
3. LIME TREE – Class 4 winner over a mile and 4th in both the Luna and the Oaks, eight-lengths behind Fantastic Value in the later. Will race handy and can match or better that 4th.
4. RISING MO – 2nd in the Luna Stakes coming from well off the pace but only beat one him in the Oaks. Has run better when coming from a long way back but too inconsistent to confidently recommend for a place
5. ONEULDO SMILE – Won her first four up to Class 4 and 1200M and then led the Oaks before being passed by Fantastic Value. She has five-lengths to make up but will probably be on pace again and will be 2nd favourite.
6. ECLIPSE THE QUEEN – Enters off her maiden win over 1400M on April 5th when coming from midfield. Fresh after nine weeks off, but big step up here.
7. FANTASTIC VALUE – Comfortable winner of the first two legs of the series and no reason to suggest that the step up in trip, or the new environment at Seoul, will be a problem. She will be the strong favourite.
8. ROCK CANDY – Gets her chance having won two of her last three up to class 5 and a mile, coming from off the pace. Extended trip may suit and may offer some each-way interest.
9. ALPHA FEMALE – The only maiden in the race, she hasn’t even finished in the top three. Seirene won this race as a maiden for the same owners last year but surely lightning does not strike twice.
Selections
(7) Fantastic Value (5) Oneuldo Smile (2) Boryeonglightqueen (8) Rock Candy
Horse Racing in Korea 