Racing Previews

Sunday Preview: Munhwa Ilbo, Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo (November 6)

Busy day of racing at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday with big prizes at both tracks for imported 2-year olds. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:50 to 17:00.

Ottug Ottugi

Oaks Winner Ottug Ottugi faces Perdido Pomeroy on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

At Seoul, It’s the Munhwa Ilbo Cup and Spirit Of Hansen looks set to be favourite for a race that has attracted a full field of fourteen runners. Fourteen go too in Busan’s equivalent, the Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Cup, a really open event in which the excellently named I’m Your Father, Sillaui Jeonseol, and Wonder Wall are likely to be among the favourites.

Also at Busan, there is an intriguing match-up in the finale as two of the track’s best sprinters, Oaks winner Ottug Ottugi and Korea/Japan Cup winner Perdido Pomeroy face off over six furlongs. Races 9-11 at Seoul will be shown in Australia on Sky Racing 2. English race cards are here. Notes on those three races below:

Race 9: Class Open – The Munhwa Ilbo Cup / 1200M / Allowance (2yo Only) / KRW 200 Million / 16:35

Following three 2nd place finishes, (5) SPIRIT OF HANSEN was perhaps a touch fortunate to get his maiden victory last time out when his main rival missed the break enabling him to comfortably make all. Nevertheless he has shown enough to suggest he should be favourite to take this valuable prize with champion jockey Moon Se Young on board for the first time. (14) NEW CITADEL made his own breakthrough last time with a visually impressive win over 1400M and while the draw is far from ideal, looks the main danger. There are plenty of unknowns in the race though. (7) CHEONGDAM DOKKI and (2) GRACE CITY have both won their only starts to date and will have backers while (8) DOLKONG may have only managed 2nd on debut behind one of his rivals at the end of August but clearly needed further and gets it today. (12) INGWANGDO has also shown promise in two outings so far and is to be considered.

Selections: (5) Spirit Of Hansen (14) New Citadel (7) Cheongdam Dokki (8) Dolkong
Next Best: 12, 2, 11
Rating: 5, 14, 4, 1=2
Fast Starters: 3, 4, 5, 12
Start-200M: 12, 4, 3, 14, 10
200M-Finish: 8, 11, 7, 13, 14

Race 10: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 17:30

Nice competitive race here and while (6) SMART TIME found herself overmatched in the Jeju Governor’s Cup last month, she should go much better here in more amenable company. She races best when she gets a forward position from the gate and can do that today. (2) GREY KAISER beat a couple of these when racing 3rd over 1200M a month ago and will also be on speed today while (3) BAEKSAN can improve on a 6th place in tough company last start. (4) CUPID POWER and (12) SUN SHOT look best of the rest.

Selections: (6) Smart Time (2) Grey Kaiser (3) Baeksan (4) Cupid Power
Next Best: 12, 5, 1, 8
Rating: 85=85, 83=83, 82
Fast Starters: 2, 5, 6, 12
Start-200M: 12, 5, 1, 10, 2
200M-Finish: 4, 8, 7, 12, 3

Race 11: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 18:00

It took (10) WINNER RED six starts to get his maiden win but he’s now won four of his last five and tackles class 1 opposition for the first time here with every indication being that he can be equal to the task. Also up in class is (11) SAMBONG. He was a, eight-length winner over 1900M last month but is a very solid sprinter too and must be considered. (7) DIPLOMATIC MISSION was 2nd at class and distance three weeks ago and can match that today while (1) WORLD JJANG and (6) CITY HUNTER have proven competitive at this level, the latter having returned from seven months out with a solid 3rd last month. (4) SUN STRONG and (12) GUMANSEOK are longer shots who also can’t be ruled out.

Selections: (10) Winner Red (7) Diplomatic Mission (11) Sambong (4) Sun Strong
Next Best: 12, 1, 6
Rating: 12, 8, 10, 2=7
Fast Starters: 2, 7, 8, 9
Start-200M: 8, 9, 10, 2, 7
200M-Finish: 6, 11, 1, 2, 10

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 5)

There are twelve races at Seoul on Saturday with the first at 10:50 and the last at 18:00. English language race cards are here. Notes on races 5-12 below:

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:40 

Nice competitive one to start with and (8) WINNER BLACK came from off the speed to land 2nd place, beating (6) GOLD JANGGUN by a length in the process, over 1300M a month ago. The latter will be on speed today and both will be competitive with Winner Black slightly favoured once more. (2) SARYEONI WIN was an encouraging 4th on debut last month and can build on that today while (4) GOLDSTAR HILLS, who beat Saryeoni Win in trials, has shown improvement in two starts so far and is to be considered. The very experienced – although without a win in thirty outings – (9) FOUR J is also capable of scoring some money from off the pace.

Selections: (8) Winner Black (2) Saryeoni Win (4) Goldstar Hills (6) Gold Janggun
Next Best: 9
Rating: –
Fast Starters: 1, 6, 7
Start-200M: 1, 6, 2, 5, 4
200M-Finish: 4, 8, 2, 9, 6

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:25 

Another competitive race and while (9) DREAM MISS could only manage 7th when well fancied in a decent all-filly race over this distance at the end of September, she gets another chance here. She is a front-runner but although she weakened that day, back at 1000M today, she is the one to beat. On the other hand (4) THANKS BEAN may prefer further but will be dangerous under Imran Siddiqui while (7) SANGBIGUN is up in class following his maiden win at this distance three weeks ago and looks to have potential for more. He is another who will look to lead early. (3) YONGWANG SIDAE doesn’t enter in form but should have the beating of a few of these while (6) HANIL ENSEMBLE similarly can compete for the money.

Selections: (9) Dream Miss (4) Thanks Bean (3) Yongwang Sidae (7) Sangbigun
Next Best: 8, 10
Rating: 9, 1=10, 7, 4
Fast Starters: 6, 7, 9, 10
Start-200M: 9, 6, 10, 7, 1
200M-Finish 2, 9, 3, 10, 5

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:10 

Four of these enter this filly & mare contest having been winners last time out and it is (5) BOUNDING PARK, a visually impressive eleven length winner at this distance on October 1st, who is the pick to score again. However, her numbers haven’t been that impressive so far and she is up in class so there is plenty of reason to oppose too. Among the other last-time winners, (10) PHILLANIKE looks the most likely. She too caught the eye making all to win by no fewer than twelve lengths at 1200M last month and while the gate is not ideal, can win again. (3) SAETBYEOL ACHIM and (7) ECTON GAYA are proven money winners at this level and both should be aiming to improve on the 4th places they scored last time out. (8) GOODMORNING FUSION, an unexpected winner at this class on October 1st will get more respect this time.

Selections: (5) Bounding Park (10) Phillanike (3) Saetbyeol Achim (8) Goodmorning Fusion
Next Best: 1, 7, 9
Rating: 5=10, 3=8, 7
Fast Starters: 3, 5, 10
Start-200M: 3, 10, 5, 2, 8
200M-Finish: 6, 7, 8, 4, 3

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:00 

Two wins from four so far and a strong 2nd last time at domestic class 4, (3) SILVER HERO looks the pick here sent in against potentially weaker imported opposition. He’ll be on speed early and can go all the way. There are two promising imports sent in against him though. Both (11) DORAON NARI and (12) ANOTHER SMART ONE were 2nd on their respective debuts in early October with Doraon Nari perhaps showing a little bit more, albeit over 1000M. Those two will also want to be on speed early and can be competitive. (6) GONE WALKABOUT was 4th on debut behind Doraon Nalri and can build on that here while (9) CLEAN UP HERO looks the better of two debut-makers having shown some glimpses of talent in an October trial.

Selections: (3) Silver Hero (11) Doraon Nalri (12) Another Smart One (6) Gone Walkabout
Next Best: 8, 9
Rating: 10=11, 12, 3=4
Fast Starters: 3, 11, 12
Start-200M: 12, 11, 10, 7, 3
200M-Finish: 11, 10, 2, 3, 6

Seoul Race 9: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:30 

Brian Dean’s (6) JANGSAN ROCKY has won two of his last three, just getting up by a head in a competitive race over 1400M at domestic class 4. He’ll be on pace early and should have the beating of most of these. Another Korean-bred is the main danger. (9) SO ARA YEOWANG came from just behind the pace to record victory over 1200M at domestic class 4 a month ago. She’s won four of eleven to date and there looks to be more to come. Among the imports, (3) HWAGANG was an encouraging 5th on debut beaten by (7) TODAY WINNER, who was much improved. (5) HIPPOCRENE and (8) GUKJE MYEONGPUM are best of the rest.

Selections: (6) Jangsan Rocky (9) So Ara Yeowang (3) Hwagang (7) Today Winner
Next Best: 5, 8
Rating: 2, 9=12, 6, 1
Fast Starters: 1, 2, 6, 7
Start-200M: 7, 6, 1, 12, 10
200M-Finish: 5, 3, 9, 4, 8

Seoul Race 10: Class 5 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:00 

(4) HONEY BUTTER NINO has disappointed in both his last two starts but does get another opportunity here. If he can get on speed early he can go well and he is sure to be well bet once more in what is a competitive race. (1) CHUL AE and (8) CALL ME JK are both up in class despite neither having yet won but both should be competitive here while (9) SONOGONG and (10) SEUNGNISARANG look best of an average rest.

Selections: (4) Honey Butter Nino (1) Chul Ae (8) Call Me JK (9) Sonogong
Next Best: 10, 6
Rating: 9, 4, 2=3, 7
Fast Starters: 4
Start-200M: 9, 7, 3, 5, 2
200M-Finish: 5, 3, 4, 10, 7

Seoul Race 11: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 17:30 

(10) JANGSAN CITY could only manage 5th when coming from off the pace in a solid race at this class over 12000M on October 1st and back to 1400M today he can get it right. Brian Dean’s (2) OFFI SAEMI looks the main danger coming in after a solid 3rd place over 1200 in a tough race three weeks ago and likely to be ridden forward early today. (11) PRETTY BOY and (8) ÉCLAIR HUMOR ran 2nd and 3rd over class and distance on October 9th and both have potential to repeat today while (3) ON THE STAGE has been a surprise winner of both her last two outings and must be given some respect here.

Selections: (10) Jangsan City (2) Offi Saemi (11) Pretty Boy (3) On The Stage
Next Best: 8, 1
Rating: 3, 1, 11, 5=10
Fast Starters: 2, 3, 4, 8
Start-200M: 4, 8, 3, 6, 2
200M-Finish: 1, 2, 10, 11, 3

Seoul Race 12: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00 

(8) CHEONHABI was 5th when favourite in a tight finish over 1700M on October 9th. He drops back to 1400M today, will be on speed early and is one of three standouts here. (4) BLUSHING VOW returned from five months off with a good win at class and distance on October 1st and can follow up here. He will also want to be upfront early on. (5) HUGHES ROAD is two starts into a comeback following a six-month absence. He showed improvement last time at 1900M and should come on more today. (2) GIANT KILLER and (9) STORYTELLING should also show well.

Selections: (8) Cheonhabi (4) Blushing Vow (5) Hughes Road (9) Storytelling
Next Best: 2, 3
Rating: 8, 3=5, 4, 10
Fast Starters: 4, 8
Start-200M: 8, 4, 1, 5, 6
200M-Finish: 3, 8, 4, 2, 6

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 4)

November is here and it has been a suitably cold week on the Korean peninusla with temperatures dipping below freezing for the first time since March. It could be a long winter. And right on cue, Friday’s Busan races shift to daytime meaning the first of eleven events get underway at 11:30 and the last at 18:00.

There is plenty of action on Sunday too but for now English racecards are here and notes of Friday’s Busan races 4-11 are below:

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:35 

(6) EGSEU BAND tries further than the minimum distance for the first time and it could be what the 2-year-old colt needs. He’s been traveling nicely for 4th in each of his last two and can go better here. (4) DREAM ACE beat (1) HWAJEONG as the pair raced together at this distance on October 7th. The latter was favourite that day and although Dream Ace went on to record another 3rd place later that month it is Hwajeong who will be the more fancied here with a top jockey taking over in the saddle. (10) PYEONDAEMYEONGMUN was a much improved 3rd at the minimum at the end of September and looks ready to stretch back out to 1300M; she’ll be on speed early along with (2) SAMHYEONGJE, disappointing behind Egseu Band last time but with potential for improvement.

Selections: (6) Egseu Band (1) Hwajeong (10) Pyeongdaemyeongmun (4) Dream Ace
Next Best: 2, 9
Rating: –
Fast Starters: 2, 9, 10
Start-200M: 2, 6, 10, 4, 9
200M-Finish: 1, 2, 9, 6, 7

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:20 

Two 2nd places at class 6 sees Peter Wolsley’s (4) DINAH forced up in class today here but there’s little to be intimidated by here and she could well pull off her maiden victory. The main danger is (3) MOMENT, 2nd at class and distance on October 14th and the experienced gelding can at least match that here. Neither will necessarily lead from the gate. That’s more likely to be (6) KWAEDO YEOGEOL, 2nd in a weak race over this distance in early October having been beaten by Moment the time before. She’ll be competitive. (1) B.K. ONE and (7) LADY CHARTERED look best of the rest.

Selections: (4) Dinah (3) Moment (6) Kwaedo Yeogeol (1) B.K. One
Next Best: 7
Rating: 3, 6, 1=4, 8
Fast Starters: 1, 6, 8
Start-200M: 6, 8, 1, 4, 5
200M-Finish: 8, 4, 3, 2, 6

Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:05 

A winner on debut and then 3rd on her first try at this class three weeks ago, (1) YUSEONG FIRST is the pick to claim this all-filly (and one mare) affair. (10) BLUE TIME steps up in class and distance having secured her own maiden victory over five furlongs on October 14th and will be one of the main dangers. The experienced (3) USEUNG CHEONJI landed a very good 3rd place in a solid race over 1300M just two weeks ago and can seek the money once more. (6) DANCING BLAZE has been inconsistent in four starts so far but has a 2nd place at this distance at class 6 and showed she can compete at this level with a 5th place in a decent race on October 9th. She’ll also be on speed early. (4) FOCUS LINE looks to have scope for improvement.

Selections: (1) Yuseong First (3) Useung Cheonji (10) Blue Time (6) Dancing Blaze
Next Best: 4, 8
Rating: 1, 10, 5=7, 6
Fast Starters: 1, 6, 10
Start-200M: 10, 1, 6, 4, 8
200M-Finish: 10, 3, 4, 5, 6

Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:50 

It took Bart Rice’s (2) SWOOP seven races to get his maiden win but he’s gone on to land three in a row and, taking on potentially weaker imported opposition here, has every chance to get his fourth. Apprentice Choi Eun Gyeong is unbeaten on him and can continue that record today in Barry Irwin’s Team Valor colours. Another Korean-bred, (12) KWAEHAN MYEONGPUM, disappointing last start, looks among the main contenders to stop him. Aside from a disappointing run in wet conditions last start, she’s been in good form of late and must be considered. Among the imports, (8) SINHEUNG QUEEN won her trial in decent fashion and we’ll look for a promising debut while (11) POINT LUCK was a creditable 4th at his first attempt a month ago. (3) TAEGWON CHAMP is yet to win in eighteen but at this distance and in this company, should be looking for the money.

Selections: (2) Swoop (8) Sinheung Queen (12) Kwaehan Myeongpum (11) Point Luck
Next Best: 3, 1
Rating: 6, 9, 2=12, 3
Fast Starters: 1, 4, 6, 8
Start-200M: 1, 6, 11, 12, 2
200M-Finish: 3, 10, 7, 11, 9

Race 8: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:35

Kim Young Kwan’s (3) HWANGJEUI TANSAENG has won two of his last three and was only narrowly defeated last time. He’ll be on speed early here from a good draw and can go all the way. (7) SEUNGJEONPILSA and (8) SHARP WIN are both up in class after victories last start but you’d fancy both have plenty to find here which leaves (6) FIVE VICTORS, 6th behind Hwangjeui Tansaeng last start and (9) GANGHAN NAMJA, also beaten by Hwangjeui Tansaeng on his last start as the main dangers. (10) KWAEHAN YEONGUNG and (11) GIFTED SUN both look competitive at this level and should be considered.

Selections: (3) Hwangjeui Tansaeng (9) Ganghan Namja (6) Five Victors (11) Gifted Sun
Next Best: 2, 10, 7, 8
Rating: 3, 6, 2=4=9
Fast Starters: 3, 7, 11
Start-200M: 11, 7, 3, 4, 8
200M-Finish: 4, 9, 8, 5, 2

Race 9: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 17:00

Open contest this with a number having claims. (1) PUT IT BACK TIM beat three of these when racing 3rd over 1400M at the end of September. He’s a strong finisher and can come from off the pace here. He has only won once in fourteen starts though and at today’s distance, one of those he beat last time, (6) YOU’RE HILARIOUS has every chance of overturning that result. (11) GOLD MOON drops back in distance after several tries around two turns and is to be considered while the very experienced (5) JILJU HWASIN was 3rd in a decent contest at class and distance just two weeks ago and can repeat. (2) KWAESEOK BARAM and the reliable (8) FOR MY SIS are others to consider for the money.

Selections: (6) You’re Hilarious (11) Gold Moon (1) Put It Back Tim (8) For My Sis
Next Best: 5, 2, 9
Rating: 6=11, 5, 7, 3
Fast Starters: 3, 4, 7, 11
Start-200M: 7, 9, 3, 11, 6
200M-Finish: 8, 10, 2, 11, 6

Race 10: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 17:30 

(6) GASOK ENGINE defeated (11) HOSEUNGJIBYEOK as the pair ran 1st and 2nd over class and distance in wet conditions on September 30th. They should battle it out again and we’ll go for the Korean Oaks 3rd place-getter Hoseungjibyeok to take the honours today. (7) BARAMUI JEONSEOL is up in class following two consecutive wins and looks most likely to upset the favourites with (8) SEONGSAN PAECHEONG and (9) JEONGSANG JEAP the best of the rest.

Selections: (11) Hoseungjibyeok (6) Gasok Engine (7) Baramui Jeonseol (8) Seongsan Paecheong
Next Best: 9, 3
Rating: 6=8, 4=1, 7
Fast Starters: 4, 6, 9, 10
Start-200M: 9, 4, 10, 6, 7
200M-Finish: 3, 8, 5, 10, 11

Race 11: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 18:00 

(4) SEOUL BULLET pushed triple-crown winner Power Blade close in a Stakes race over this distance a month ago on what was just his second start back following well over a year off. He was six-for-six before his extended lay-off and can get back to winning ways here. Top-rated (5) WONIL GANGJA comes in looking for a hat-trick of victories. His past two have been achieved at reasonably lengthy odds and the same apprentice who won on him last time takes some weight off today and he can challenge the favourite. (2) MAC AND CHEESE returns to action for the first time since April. He looked is good shape when unhurried in a trial two weeks ago and can put in a good run first-up. (6) GOJI JEONGBEOL and (7) POKPUNG CHOEGANG can compete for minor money.

Selections (4) Seoul Bullet (5) Wonil Gangja (2) Mac And Cheese (6) Goji Jeongbeol
Next Best: 7, 3, 1
Rating: 5, 3, 1, 6, 4
Fast Starters: 1, 5
Start-200M: 3, 2, 5, 4, 1
200M-Finish: 7, 5, 4, 6, 3

Sunday Preview: Nonghyup Trophy At Seoul / Beolmaui Kkum At Busan

Sunday is a big day of racing across the peninsula with good quality match ups at both Seoul and Busan. The unfortunately named Goreous Dream goes after what would be his eighth win on his ninth start in Seoul’s Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy while Beolmaui Kkum, such a disappointment in last month’s Korea Cup, headlines Busan’s feature.

beolmaui-kkum-korea-cup-lead

Beolmaui Kkum quickly led the Korea Cup but quickly faded. He returns to action on Sunday (Pic: Ross Holburt)

Formerly for fillies and mares, this year the Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy has been repackaged as a race for 3-year-olds. And at Seoul, Goreous Dream (yes, he really is actually called “Gorgeous Dream” in Korean, it seems to be a typo but we’re going to go with it anyway) looks a talent, at least at sprint distances. He’s going to be the strong favourite to keep his record going in the 1200M Nonghyup.

Beolmaui Kkum went out like a train in the Korea Cup at Seoul last month but quickly ran out of steam and handed the race on a platter to the two Japanese visitors. There’s a jockey change today with an apprentice coming in to take some weight off but it still won’t be easy for Beolmaui Kkum in the 1800M race 6. Dongbang Daero, Supreme Magic – 6th in the Korea Sprint – and the ever-reliable Heba will also go.

At Seoul there are 11 races from 10:40 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 6 from 12:50 to 17:00. English race cards are here. Three races will be shown in Australia on Sky Racing 2 for betting on the TAB, including the Nonghyup Trophy. Notes on those below:

Race 8: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 14:45

(3) KODIAK LOVE will be the strong favourite here. He didn’t get the greatest of trips in a tough race over this distance on October 2nd but if he can get on speed early today, he has every chance of going all the way in what is slightly weaker company. (9) POWER AND SPEED returned from a full ten months off in September to record an unexpected win at domestic class 4. She’s up in class today but has a strong finish and looks to be the main danger. Also up in class is (10) BARAM SOGEURO. He didn’t disappoint with an all the way win over 1300M and while the draw is less favourable today, he’s should be competitive. (5) SKY JEWANG has a 4th and a 6th from two outings at this level and can build on those today while (1) TAEYANGBYEOL looks best of the rest.

Selections: (3) Kodiak Love (9) Power And Speed (10) Baram Sogeuro (5) Sky Jewang
Next Best: 1, 6, 7
Rating: 3, 10, 4=8, 6
Fast Starters: 3, 4, 5, 10
Start-200M: 4, 3, 6, 10, 5
200M-Finish: 7, 9, 3, 5, 8

Race 9: Class 1 / 1200M / Allowance (3yo only) – The Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy / KRW 120 Million / 16:35

He may be a typo in the registry but (8) GOREOUS DREAM has proved a very effective sprinter on the track. The Sharp Humor colt has won seven of his eight outings to date, almost all of them having led from gat to wire and he will be hot favourite to do exactly the same here. (1) SUN ROK comes in having won his last two and drops back to this distance for the first time since last year. He’s won seven of ten and is a danger. Under the same ownership as Sun Rok (although a different trainer), (5) GWANGBOK CHILSIP is another talent who drops back to a sprint distance for the first time in many months and must be taken seriously. (7) SUSEONG CAPTAIN and (3) SHAMROCKER too will appreciate the distance with the former likely to challenge Goreous Dream and Gwangbok Chilsip for the early lead. It’s a competitive race with seven of the eight having claims (it’s hard to make a case for the still maiden Hwanggeum Cheonha), but the favourite should be too good.

Selections: (8) Goreous Dream (5) Gwangbok Chilsip (1) Sun Rok (7) Suseong Captain
Next Best: 3, 6, 4
Rating: 8, 5, 3, 1, 7
Fast Starters: 5, 7, 8
Start-200M: 8, 2, 7, 5, 6
200M-Finish: 3, 6, 7, 1, 4
Race 10: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 17:30

Small but competitive field here with two standouts. (3) WINNERS GLORY looked like he was heading to the top earlier this year but hasn’t managed to build on a 4th place in the Korean Derby. He managed another 4th in the Ilgan Sports Cup in July but his only race since then was a disappointing run over 1400M. He gets another chance here though and should be on speed throughout. Among those beating Winners Glory in that 1400M race was (2) SEOMGWANGI. He was recording his third consecutive 2nd place finish that day but with champion jockey Moon Se Young back in the saddle, he should also be on speed early and can go one better today. He’s the pick. (4) DIXIE PLOIT, a half-brother to a Derby winner, is up in class following a smart win over this distance last month and looks best of the rest. He’ll come from off the pace as will the next best (7) GRAND PNYX and (8) CARDIFF HWANHUI.

Selections: (2) Seomgwangi (3) Winners Glory (4) Dixie Ploit (8) Cardiff Hwanhui
Next Best: 7
Rating: 7, 2, 6=8, 3
Fast Starters: 2, 3
Start-200M: 2, 3, 7, 1, 5
200M-Finish: 4, 3, 1, 2, 5

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 28)

Evening racing finally wraps up at Busan today. There’s a 10-race card from 14:20 to 21:00. On Saturday there is racing at Seoul while both tracks run daytime cards on Sunday.

English racecards are here. Notes on simulcast races 1-7 are below:

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

(5) ADELE ACE was 3rd on debut on October 7th. He didn’t start especially quickly that day but finished strongly. Expect him to be on speed here and he’ll be the strong favourite. (11) KEUN MABEOP led for much of her debut back in September before fading late on and she can also compete here. Among the debut-makers (1) FREE CARE and (7) CITY WINNER looked best in trials.

Selections (5) Adele Ace (7) City Winner (11) Keun Mabeop (1) Free Care
Next Best 3, 10
Fast Starters 5, 7, 11


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

Thomas Gillespie’s (8) AGNES was a strong finishing 2nd on debut earlier this month (beating Adele Ace who we saw in race 1) and she’s the pick to go one better today. (2) KEUNJAYU and (7) PARTY TONIGHT have both shown promise in their two starts to date and can threaten here while (1) EOREUM GONGJU gets a top jockey booking, should be on speed early and can make a big improvement from her debut. (11) TEUKGEUP GAMDONG, a much improved 4th last time, looks best of the rest.

Selections (8) Agnes (2) Keunjayu (7) Party Tonight (11) Teukgeup Gamdong
Next Best 1, 12
Fast Starters 1, 4, 6


Race 3: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:30 

Nothing much here so Peter Wolsley’s debut-maker (7) TIMELESS has as good a chance as any of making a breakthrough. Kim Young Kwan’s (8) HWANGGEUMBIT JILJU also looks an interesting one having debuted disappointingly in June but was solid in a trial earlier this month. Favourite is likely to be (5) YEONGGWANGUIHUNTER who showed improvement in a decent race over the distance on October 7th and can build on that here. (4) SINMYEONGSEONG recorded back to back 3rd places much earlier this year and returns following seven months off with (1) QUEEN MEDIA and (12) GOLD FLYING looking the best of a limited rest.

Selections (7) Timeless (5) Yeonggwanguihunter (1) Queen Media (8) Hwanggeumbit Jilju
Next Best 12, 4, 11
Fast Starters 4, 5, 7

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 16:15 

(9) BIG GOLD was 2nd on her first try at this distance in what was admittedly, a weak race at the end of September. This one isn’t much stronger though and she has as good a chance as any. She’ll likely try to lead all the way. Also on speed early will be (6) FRENCH GIRL, who should have come on for her debut two weeks ago. (7) AREUMDAN OECHIM has been inconsistent in four prior starts but has shown ability and should be considered while (2) TIME CASTLE and (10) SOUL also have potential for improvement.

Selections (9) Big Gold (7) Areumdaun Oechim (6) French Girl (2) Time Castle
Next Best 10, 11
Fast Starters 6, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:00 

The first of the handicaps and the first of two banker favourites of the day. That’s Thomas Gillespie’s (10) EVERGREEN TREE who impressed with a five-length win on debut and while up in class, should be too good for this lot. Also up in class is (3) TIGER SLAM and he could well prove to be the main danger while (5) REALLY ONE has proven capable of winning money at this level and can do so again. (6) LOOK AT ME was a surprise winner last time beating (7) CHARTERED DREAM. Both are up in class here with the latter looking more likely to be able to make the step up. (8) BEST PERFORMER is best of the rest.

Selections (10) Evergreen Tree (3) Tiger Slam (5) Really One (7) Chartered Dream
Next Best 8, 2
Fast Starters 3, 7, 10


Race 6: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:50 

(1) MADEIN MYEONGSEONG returned from almost ten months off with an encouraging 5th place over 1000M two weeks ago and he can build on that here. Expect him to compete for favourite status with (9) KKOKDAEGI, who was slightly disappointing last time out but can go better here. Also set to improve are (3) GEOWIUI KKUM and (6) NAMYANG TOWER, both of whom have been inconsistent. (12) DONGGWANG JEIL was an improved 5th last start and can match or better it here.

Selections (1) Madein Myeongseong (9) Kkokdaegi (3) Geowiui Kkum (6) Namyang Tower
Next Best 12, 2
Fast Starters 1, 3, 6, 8


Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:30 

(1) DAESTAR will be strong favourite here. He has a win a 3rd and a 2nd in three starts to date and this should be his last appearance at this class. He was 2nd last time ahead of (8) BAEDARI GOSU and it’s that one who is likely to be his biggest danger today. (9) BEAUTIFUL was a narrow winner over 1200M last time and is up in class here. Apart from the favourite there is little to be intimidated about. The very experienced pair of (3) YAKSOKUI SIGAN and (7) SAMDA GONGJU are capable of winning money in this company.

Selections (1) Daestar (8) Baedari Gosu (9) Beautiful (3) Yaksokui Sigan
Next Best 7, 5
Fast Starters 1, 2, 10

Sunday Preview (October 23)

There’s a busy day of racing in Korea today with 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:50 to 17:05. 

Feature race is at Busan in the shape of the Gyeongnam Sinmun Cup, the southern track’s top juvenile race of the year. English racecards here. Just three races will be simulcast overseas today and notes on them are below:

 Busan Race 4: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 15:20

(9) GABO STAR is the one to beat here. He’s won his last two in comfortable style, beating (6) FOR MY SIS by a length three weeks ago at this distance. Both of them are up in class here. Gabo Star should be on speed early and he can complete a hat-trick of victories. The reliable For My Sis can find the money once again but the main danger may turn out to be (10) BIO BLUE. He’s back in the winning habit with two from his last three and while 1200M may be a touch short for him, he’ll be a danger coming from just behind the early pace. (1) JUNGANG YEOJE has suffered a couple of setbacks when favourite in both his last two outings but will surely find at least the places again while (4) ILMANGMUJE weakened late on in a good race over 1400M last month and should go better back at 1200M today.

Selections (9) Gabo Star (10) Bio Blue (1) Jungang Yeoje (6) For My Sis
Next Best 4
Rating 2=8, 3, 10, 7
Fast Starters 1, 4, 7, 9
Start-200M 7, 1, 4, 9, 5
200M-Finish 6, 10, 1, 5, 7

Busan Race 5: Class Open – The Gyeongnam Sinmun Cup / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 250 Million / 16:15

This race is Busan’s top juvenile race of the year with those who perform well likely to go to Seoul in early December to contest the overall Championship. It’s a tricky one too with plenty of unknown quantities. We’ll start with the known though and on that basis, (9) ICE MARINE gets the nod. She’s won three of four so far and beat three of these in a valuable race for domestic sales graduates last month. A fast starter, she’ll possibly be the favourite here. Of those she beat in that race on September 11th, (3) ADELEUI BOM and (7) MUHAN YEOLJEONG look capable of going well here. Trainer Kim Young Kwan saddled winner and runner-up last year; those two went on to win the Oaks and the Triple Crown respectively and Korea’s top trainer comes in well-armed again today. (2) EUROPA is the pick of his pair. He tied up from two furlongs out when up against older horses over 1300M last start but has had two months off since and should be factor here. Kim’s other entrant (6) SINUIPUMGYEOK was 3rd in challenging company at the distance last month and is also likely to have come on. (4) ILLYU STAR comes in two for two and is another who’ll want to be on speed early while (1) QUEEN’S QUEEN and (11) HWARANGUI HUYE are the wildcard picks, both running under in-form expat jockeys.

Selections (6) Sinuipumgyeok (9) Ice Marine (2) Europa (11) Hwarangui Huye
Next Best 4, 10, 3, 1
Rating –
Fast Starters 2, 4, 9
Start-200M 9, 4, 7, 2, 8
200M-Finish 11, 4, 1, 7, 3

Busan Race 6: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 17:05

Another competitive race and while (10) SAEROUN STEALTH demonstrated that he can get two turns with a solid 2nd over 1800M last month but it is at this distance and shorter where he has excelled most so far and he is very much the one to beat here. (4) PUREUN ACE beat (2) AJU CHOEGANG when the pair ran 4th and 5th at class and distance exactly a month ago and both can challenge here with the latter favoured to overturn that result while (3) SEONGSAN PAECHEONG returned to form with a 2nd place at class and distance two weeks ago and can build on that here despite carrying an extra three kilos. (11) MORNING DAERO enters following back to back 2nd place finishes most recently at class and distance and can be fancied for a late charge here.

Selections (10) Saeroun Stealth (2) Aju Choegang (11) Morning Daero (4) Pureun Ace
Next Best 3, 8, 7
Rating 4, 1=11, 2, 3
Fast Starters 5, 6, 10
Start-200M 5, 6, 11, 10, 7
200M-Finish 2, 11, 3, 4, 5

Clean Up Joy Romps Home In KRA Cup Classic

Clean Up Joy today showed why he’s the highest-rated horse at Seoul with an easy win in the KRA Cup Classic on a rainy afternoon in the Korean capital.

Jockey Ham Wan Sik departed from his normal tactics on Clean Up Joy and despite 5-year-old leaping rather awkwardly out of the gate opted to push forward to join the early leaders. On a wet track, it paid off handsomely. Clean Up Joy hit the front as the field entered the home straight and ran on to win by a comfortable seven-lengths on the line.

Clean Up Joy (Purge) was recording his 10th win on what was his 20th career start. He was 3rd behind Bold Kings in last year’s Grand Prix Stakes and 4th in this summer’s Busan Mayor’s Cup, beaten only by Beolmaui Kkum, Triple Nine and Success Story. Despite a reverse at the hands of Winning Andy – who also tried his luck here – when conceding 8kg in August, he fully vindicated punters who sent him off at long odds-on today.

Running 2nd was the ever-reliable Unbeatable (Eddington) while long-shot Cheonjeok (Shakespeare) got up for a very creditable 3rd place.

Clean Up Joy was a $14,000 purchase from the OBS two-year-old sale in Florida in June 2013. He’s now won in excess of $800,000 in prize-money.

KRA Cup Classic (KOR G2) – Seoul Racecourse – 2000M – October 16, 2016

1. Clean Up Joy (USA) [Purge – Greta’s Joy (Joyeaux Danseur)] – Ham Wan Sik – 1.3, 1.1
2. Unbeatable (USA) [Eddington – Baxter Hall (Rahy)] – Song Jae Chul – 3.2
3. Cheonjeok (USA) [Shakespeare – Celtic Song (Giant’s Causeway)]
Distances: 7 lengths / 3 lengths
Also Ran: 4. Clean Up Cheonha (USA) 5. Dynamic Jilju (USA) 6. Bichui Wangja (USA) 7. Areumdaundonghaeng (USA) 8. Winning Andy (USA) 9. Chief Red Can (USA) 10. Damyang Chukje (USA)

KRA Cup Classic Day Preview

KRA Cup Classic day has dawned overcast in Seoul. Ten runners will go to post this afternoon for the 400 Million Won race with Clean Up Joy, 4th in this summer’s Busan Mayor’s Cup likely to be the favourite.

DE4_4671

Chief Red Can and Park Eul Woon won the KRA Cup Classic last year. They return for another try today (Pic: Ross Holburt)

The KRA Cup Classic is the highlight of an 11 race card at Seoul which runs from 10:40 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 12:50 to 17:05. English racecards are here. Notes on the three Sky Racing races, including the Classic are below:

Race 8: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap: Horses which are imported to Korea have to start at class 4 whereas those bred domestically can begin at class 6. Therefore Korea-bred horses who have made it up to this level are generally proven winners. That’s the case with (4) SUBAEKYANG, who has a 2nd and a 3rd from her last two and is favoured to score here with a late run. On speed will be (2) GYODUBO and (11) FLY WING. Both have won at this distance already and they look the main dangers. Also on speed early should be (1) KKUMUI CLUB who tries this distance for the first time and can go well. Also attempting the 1700M for the first time is (7) WANGUI DAERO, who is yet to score in eleven but has often come close and can beat plenty of these.

Selections: 4, 2, 11, 1
Next Best: 7, 6, 12, 3
Rating: 12, 2=4, 11, 7
Fast Starters: 2, 9, 11, 12
Start-200M: 12, 10, 1, 9, 11
200M-Finish: 12, 2, 7, 4, 1

Race 9: Class Open – The KRA Cup Classic (KOR G2) (2000M) Weight for Age: Big prize money on offer here and (9) CLEAN UP JOY is favoured to take it home. He’s the top-rated horse at Seoul and won his first three races this year before refistering a by no-means disgraced 4th place in a very tough Mayor’s Cup at Busan in July. On his return to the capital in August he was somewhat surprisingly beaten by (6) WINNING ANDY over 1400M but he was giving 8kg away and should overturn that under weight for age today. Clean Up Joy is expected to drop right to the back of the field early and then close strongly. His stablemate (2) CLEAN UP CHEONHA is two races into a comeback following a lengthy spell. Neither suited and he is expected to improve today. (3) BICHUI WANGJA was a gate to wire winner over this distance in July and while he disappointed, he should get an uncontested lead here and can be considered to stay all the way. (1) DYNAMIC JILJU, an also-ran in the Korea Cup last month and (10) CHIEF RED CAN, winner of this race in 2015, are others to be respected.

Selections: 9, 3, 1, 2
Next Best: 6, 1, 7, 5, 8, 4
Rating: 9, 2, 1, 10, 5
Fast Starters: 3
Start-200M: 2, 3, 5, 1, 9
200M-Finish: 9, 6, 5, 2, 4

Race 10: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap: Competitive race to finish with. (4) GAIA THUNDER looks to be the pick, having been a class and distance winner in August before going on to beat four of his rivals here when running 2nd over 1700M a month ago. He’ll settle just behind any early leaders and has a strong finish. (3) CHOWONUI CHANGA was 4th in that race, just under a length behind (10) MIRACLE CAT – who was over-performing – and will be a danger today. (11) GEUMGANGJEGUK was a surprise winner over 1200M on August 27th beating (1) LAST CODIE and (9) BEST ROAD. All three of them find themselves up in class here and Last Codie especially, with three wins from five outings to date, looks set to overturn that form today.

Selections: 4, 1, 3, 9
Next Best: 2, 7, 11, 10
Rating: 4, 2, 5, 11, 7
Fast Starters: 1, 2, 6, 7
Start-200M: 1, 9, 6, 2, 7
200M-Finish: 4, 10, 3, 11, 9

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 14)

Friday racing is about to get underway. Here’s the preview of the simulcast races:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 13:20 (SIN)

Second on debut, Peter Wolsley’s (1) DINAH should be making the breakthrough here in this all-filly event. (9) BLUE TIME looked good on debut and while she was a slightly disappointing 5th when well backed on her re-appearance, she looks the main danger here. (10) QUEEN’S BULLET was a much improved 2nd a month ago and can go well once more while the only debut-maker (3) FRENCH GIRL and the most experienced filly in the race (4) AQUA QUEEN look best of the rest.

Selections: (1) Dinah (9) Blue Time (3) French Girl (10) Queen’s Bullet

Next Best: 4, 6

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 13:45 (SIN)

Trainer Kim Young Kwan gives Francisco Da Silva a good opportunity to score here on (4) FOUR NINES. The colt showed improvement with a 3rd place two weeks ago and can win this. Also much improved last start was (5) KING SIMON who appreciated the slight additional distance and should be competitive again here. (6) OPEN THE SKY didn’t impress on debut but should be given another chance to show what he can do here with (1) KING ICE, (8) TRIPLE KING and first-timer (9) GOLDEN TROPHY among others to note.

Selections: (4) Four Nines (5) King Simon (6) Open The Sky (9) Golden Trophy

Next Best: 8, 1

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:30 (SIN)

(3) RED YOUNG MYEONGUN has been close on both his last two starts and in more modest company today, will be strong favourite to make the breakthrough. Bart Rice’s (4) SILENT LAGO returns for the first time since May. She looked sharp in a September trial and should go well under an apprentice jockey who is flying at the moment. (5) SWEET WHY should be on speed early and can at least match her best finish to date of 3rd while (2) GOLDEN BULLET and (6) MACH IMPACT are others to watch.

Selections: (3) Red Young Myeongun (4) Silent Lago (5) Sweet Why (2) Golden Bullet

Next Best: 6, 1

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:15 (SIN)

Kim Young Kwan and Francisco Da Silva partner once more, this time with (3) PINK BLADE, who just came up short as favourite three weeks ago at this distance but will be strong favourite to put things right today. (4) CAPI RUN showed good potential with a 3rd place on his first try at the distance and comes back after three months off to be the main danger here while (5) MAPLE CLASSIC put in a solid debut at the end of August and can build on it here. (7) ARMAGEDDON had shown little in the way of talent before a shock 3rd place last start and punters will be more mindful of him here while (6) YES QUEEN too put in a career-best finish on September 23rd and can follow up today.

Selections: (3) Pink Blade (4) Capi Run (5) Maple Classic (6) Yes Queen

Next Best: 7, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:00 (SIN)

The first of the handicaps and Peter Wosley puts apprentice Choi Eun Gyeung on (3) MACHEON CHIRON, who was just beaten into 2nd on his first try at this class last month and he is the one to beat today. There’s plenty of talent here though and (9) DANCING STAR was 3rd on her own first attempt at the level and dropping back to 1000M today will be a danger. Since winning on debut in July, (1) SUPER JJANGJJANGI hasn’t quite got to grips with the stiffer competition at class 5 but can’t be ruled out while (5) MADEIN MYEONGSEONG returns to action for the first time since January and looked decent when requalifying. Disappointing behind Macheon Chiron last time (7) MOMENT can be given another chance today.

Selections: (3) Macheon Chiron (9) Dancing Star (5) Madein Myeongseong (7) Moment

Next Best: 1, 8

Race 6: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 16:50 (SIN)

Good line-up here but Bart Rice’s (6) BUHWARUI BANSEOK should have too much for them. He’s won his last two well, most recently at class and distance and will be strong favourite to complete a hat-trick here. Also on a hat-trick and winner of five from seven to date is (9) LUCKY TIME. He can go well but is up in class and does have something to find here. Instead the main danger may be (2) TARIAT TALE, 2nd at this class behind the very good Tohamsan last month and tries this distance for the first time. (5) BAEDARI BOBAE was 3rd in the final leg of the Triple Crown in July and while up in class here, can place again while as indeed can (8) GOSOK JILJU, who beat him last month. (7) CHOEGANG PLUS looks best of the rest.

Selections: (6) Buhwarui Banseok (5) Baedari Bobae (2) Tariat Tale (9) Lucky Time

Next Best: 7, 8

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:30 (SIN)

Big competitive field to finish with and with a 3rd and a 2nd from his last two, we’ll go with (10) INDIAN CHIEF to take the honours. (7) SHNE STAR won on debut and while he was a little lacklustre last time out gets another chance here while (3) BONGHWANGUI KKUM won at this class in September and despite carrying an extra 4kg here, can be competitive. (6) YAKSOKUI SIGAN and the usually fast finishing (11) BIGBANG BID are next best.

Selections: (10) Indian Chief (3) Bonghwangui Kkum (7) Shine Star (11) Bigbang Bid

Next Best: 6

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 9)

While at Busan, Power Blade is the main attraction on Sunday, there’s a big card at Seoul too with 11 races from 10:40 to 18:00

English racecards can be found here. Notes on all Seoul races below:

Key

Rating Top five official rated
Fast Starters Expected to lead the race early
Start-200M Fastest average time for the first 200M (up to 6 most recent races)
200M-Finish Fastest average time for the final 200M (up to 6 most recent races)

Race 1: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 10:40

 (8) CLEAN UP SKY was 3rd in the valuable HKJC Trophy on September 10th and would probably have won had he not been one of two who shifted outwards abruptly away from the whip in the closing stages, losing a lot of ground. The other who did that was a winner last week and in Korea, Clean Up Sky will be odds-on to follow suit here. Next best is (3) YEOKDAE CHOESANG who closed strongly for 2nd last start and will appreciate the extra furlong today. (5) RULE OF SUM was an encouraging 5th on debut in August and can come on here while (4) PHILLANIKE and (12) JEULGEOUN HAMSEONG are perhaps best of the rest although (11) MEGA CHAMP won his trial and will have some backing.

Selections (8) Clean Up Sky (3) Yeokdae Choesang (5) Rule Of Sum (12) Jeulgeoun Hamseong
Next Best 11, 4, 9
Rating –
Fast Starters 4, 6, 8
Start-200M 8, 4, 12, 2, 3
200M-Finish 5, 3, 12, 7, 9

Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 11:05

The market will be slightly more balanced in this one with all except (5) HALO TIME likely to have at least some support. (2) QUEEN PRINCESS and (7) EUNBIT NARAE recorded 3rd places at 1200M and 1300M respectively in August and while both struggled on reappearance last month, they can return to some semblance of form here. It’s similar for (1) GANGJASEUNG, the most experienced one in the race, who failed to follow up on an August 2nd place. (3) YEONGUNG GEONMA’s best I three outings so far came at this distance and will benefit from the services of Djordje Perovic, while (6) GOLDIE EARTH finally showed some improvement in a weak race last month and carries the lightest weight here.

Selections (3) Yeongung Geonma (2) Queen Princess (1) Gangjaseung (6) Goldie Earth
Next Best 7, 4
Rating –
Fast Starters 2
Start-200M 3, 2, 4, 6, 7
200M-Finish 5, 3, 1, 7, 2

Race 3: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 11:30

Another competitive race. Slight pick and likely favourite is (6) MABEOP TANHWAN, a class and distance winner on September 3rd when not fancied at all. He came from just behind the early leaders that day and beat (5) GALKKOTBI in 3rd by almost two lengths. This race isn’t significantly stronger although (2) DONGHAE VICAR and (3) KING LIGHT, both of whom struggled on their first try at this class and both should welcome the step down in trip today. That’s true too of (10) GANGNAMGUL while (8) JEOMIPGASOK returns for the first time since May and looked lively enough in a trial last month.

Selections (6) Mabeop Tanhwan (3) King Light (2) Donghae Vicar (10) Gangnamgul
Next Best 8, 1, 5
Rating 3=10, 6, 1=2
Fast Starters 2, 3, 10
Start-200M 7, 3, 10, 2, 6
200M-Finish 8, 6, 4, 1, 9

Race 4: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 12:10

After back to back 3rd places in all-filly races at this class and distance and prior to that a solid 2nd at 1400M, (11) BEST QUEEN looks ready to win again here. She’s usually steadily away so the outside gate shouldn’t be an issue. Finding one too quick once more may be an issue though and if that happens, the most likely is (8) NEULPUREUN KOKO. She was a well-beaten 2nd at this distance a month ago but is a winner at this distance and will be on speed early. (9) YONGDUSAN showed tentative signs of a return to form with a 4th place at class and distance in August and can go well here too while (6) EIGER and the oddly named (1) VET TIME look best of the rest.

Selections (11) Best Queen (8) Neulpureun Koko (9) Yongdusan (6) Eiger
Next Best 1, 10
Rating 5, 11, 7, 8, 6
Fast Starters 5, 8
Start-200M 8, 5, 1, 9, 6
200M-Finish 11, 3, 1, 2, 6

Race 5: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:15

Another competitive race and we’ll make (1) LAKE LOUISE, 3rd on her first try at this level on September 11th, the pick to score. She led until the closing stages that day and with half a furlong less to worry about today, can go all the way this time. (6) SUN MASTER was 5th, a length and a half behind Lake Louise that day and can go closer here. (7) LA FENICE was a winner at this class over 1000M last month and while that seems to be his ideal distance, he should be able to be competitive at 1200M and will challenge for the lead early. (4) SILVER HERO is up in class having won two of his first three outings and is to be considered while (8) SO ARA YEOWANG drops back to this distance for the first time since beating Lake Louise over it in July. Trainer and jockey combination is bang in form right now.

Selections (1) Lake Louise (4) Silver Hero (6) Sun Master (8) So Ara Yeowang
Next Best 6, 2
Rating 2, 7, 5, 1, 8
Fast Starters 1, 3, 7
Start-200M 7, 3, 1, 5, 6
200M-Finish 9, 5, 8, 2, 4

Race 6: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:05

Since beginning his career with a pair of wins, (11) SIDAEUIYEOWANG has never finished any worse than 4th but has always managed to find at least one too quick. He can put that right today. The main danger looks to be the up in class (6) GWACHEONUI HAMSEONG who’s won two from four and attempts 1400M for the first time. He’s likely to try to make all while Sidaeuiyeowang will be ridden more patiently. Also on speed will be (8) EOJJUGURI, who should be close at the end although the distance may be a slight concern. (2) PRETTY BOY and the up in class (10) DIXIE SMILE, who landed his 2nd win at the 26th time of asking last month, are others in contention.

Selections (11) Sidaeuiyeowang (6) Gwacheonui Hamseong (8) Eojjuguri (10) Dixie Smile
Next Best 2, 5, 12
Rating 11, 3, 1, 8, 2
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6, 8
Start-200M 5, 11, 8, 4, 6
200M-Finish 6, 9, 2, 12, 10

Race 7: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55

There are three stand-outs here in a very average looking race and among them (5) NEW CITADEL, 2nd on debut over 1300M on August 27th, is favoured to take the honours. (7) BANYA DONGHAENG was an encouraging 5th on debut last month and can build on it here while (1) GOOD TO YOU is yet to win in eighteen outings but beat three of these when running 3rd over this distance last start in August and should beat plenty again. It’s slim pickings beyond those so well give a chance to debut-maker (8) HWAGANG, who was 2nd in a trial just last week and also to (12) USEUNG GONGGAM who has a strong of recent 4th places that he should be looking to match or better in this company.

Selections (5) New Citadel (7) Banya Donghaeng (1) Good To You (8) Hwagang
Next Best 12, 3
Rating 5, 3=7=8, 1
Fast Starters 3, 5
Start-200M 3, 5, 10, 6, 7
200M-Finish 7, 5, 1, 12, 2

Race 8: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45

(4) SPIRIT OF HANSEN has been 2nd on each of his three outings so far and he should be close by once more. It’s possible though that he might have to settle for 2nd – or worse – as he finds himself up in class today in what is a competitive race. (9) DAEBAKIDA and (5) HWANGGEUM DEULPAN have both shown they can be contenders at this level and should go close while (2) DAEMA JIJON has already won at class and distance and can be dangerous. (10) EUNBIT HWANHUI has won two of her last three and is accordingly up in class here. She tries the distance for the first time and it should suit.

Selections (4) Spirit Of Hansen (9) Daebakida (10) Eunbit Hwanhui (5) Hwanggeum Deulpan
Next Best 2, 6, 3
Rating 3, 12, 1=2=5
Fast Starters 1, 2, 11
Start-200M 1, 3, 4, 11, 2
200M-Finish 6, 10, 4, 2, 9

Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:40

Both (1) CHEONHABI and (7) IGWANGSASEOK enter here having won their last two starts, the latest for each of them being at this class and accordingly both must be respected here. We’re going to make (2) SIMBA the pick though. His two latest defeats have been in tougher company than this and he looks very nicely in here. (8) LITTLE BROWN was 2nd, just over a length behind Igwangsaseok, at class and distance on August 28th and can go close again while (6) VALLEY STAR, last behind Cheonhabi last time out, can improve today.

Selections (2) Simba (1) Cheonhabi (7) Igwangsaseok (8) Little Brown
Next Best 6, 3
Rating 3=8, 1=2=5
Fast Starters 1, 8
Start-200M 8, 1, 7, 2, 4
200M-Finish 3, 1, 2, 7, 8

Race 10: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:30

Seven of these raced each other at class and distance on August 28th and it was old-stager (8) GUMANSEOK who surprisingly got the best of them. He hasn’t been respected by punters in either of his last two races but has defied his odds both times to finish 2nd. He’ll be much shorter today. (1) SPACE PORT was just a neck behind Gumanseok in that race and may well start favourite here but the other likely fancies here didn’t go that day. (12) BRIG returned to form with a solid 2nd place over 2000M at the beginning of September and should be strong here while (9) MENI MONEY was 3rd over this distance in June’s SLTC Trophy and enters in good form. (10) HALLA CHUKJE, who will most likely set the early pace and (7) WOLRD JJANG are others to look out for.

Selections (12) Brig (1) Space Port (8) Gumanseok (9) Meni Money
Next Best 10, 7, 2
Rating 1, 3, 4, 10, 2
Fast Starters 3, 4, 10
Start-200M 3, 1, 7, 9, 6
200M-Finish 7, 2, 10, 8, 5

Race 11: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 18:00

Two who are up in class look to be the ones to beat in the finale. (1) MENI MUSIC and (3) SNOW CHARISMA were class 3 winners at the start of September over 1200M and 1400M respectively, both of them making all and they will fight it out early in the race with one of them having the potential to go all the way. (4) SINGGEUREOUNBOM and (8) CUPID CHONGAL, have the best chance of stopping them with (10) KEUNBADA a longer shot in what is another competitive race.

Selections (3) Snow Charisma (1) Meni Music (4) Singgeureounbom (8) Cupid Chongal
Next Best 10, 11,
Rating 10, 1, 8, 2, 11
Fast Starters 1, 3
Start-200M 10, 4, 3, 8, 12
200M-Finish 1, 12, 2, 7, 6