Racing Previews

Power Blade Faces Four In Kookje Sinmun

Triple Crown winner Power Blade will be the prohibitive favourite when he makes his return to his home track of Busan for the first time since winning the first jewel in the Crown all the way back in April. He has scared off all but four other entrants in the Kookje Sinmun Cup which will be run over 1400M on Sunday afternoon.

Power Blade Banjiui

Power Blade, seen here becoming Champion Juvenile on the last occasion he raced at 1400M, faces four in the Kookje Sinmun Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

While still lightly campaigned – Power Blade has only raced a total of ten times in his career, there were fears among some that a trip to Seoul for the Korea Cup last month would be a race too far. He defied those to some extent by finishing 4th in the Cup, albeit a full twenty lengths behind winner Chrysolite and four lengths behind Stablemate Triple Nine in 3rd.

It’s another stablemate that could provide the main danger in Sunday’s kookje Sinmun. Seoul Bullet, who was six for six before injury struck in Spring of 2015 and perhaps returned a little too soon when racing last when finally reappearing in August. Significantly better is expected of him today.

Kookje Sinmun Cup (Listed-Weight for Age) – Busan Racecourse – 1400M – Sunday October 9 (16:15)

1. Power Blade (KOR) [Menifee] 3 C (10/7/2/0) – Kim Yong Geun
The Triple Crown winner drops back to seven furlongs for the first time since he was a juvenile – a race in which he recorded a faster time than any of his oppponents here have managed at this distance. Tactically versatile, fully fit or not, he should have far too much for these.

2. Hangangui Gijeok (KOR) [Didyme] 5 G (15/10/1/0) – Choi Si Dae
Two years ago he was one of the best horses on the peninsula. Ruled out with tendinitis for seventeen months from March of 2015 until August of this year, his return was an inauspocious one, only beating one home over 1200M. Two months down the line we’re expecting improvement. We’re not expecting him to beat Power Blade. Likely to lead.

3. Yuseong Fighting (KOR) [Didyme] 4 C (21/6/3/0) – Oh Kyoung Hoan
Decent sprinter whose connections are never afraid to send him out in tough company. Beat Seoul Bullet on the latter’s return from injury. He’ll join Hangangui Gijeok in looking for the early lead and he he should stay on to be competitive.

4. Seoul Bullet (KOR) [Peace Rules] 5 G (7/6/0/0) – Seo Seung Un
Sent to Florida as a juvenile he raced there four times for one third before returning to Korea towards the end of his three-year-old season. Stronger, fitter and more muscular than his contemporaries, he promptly went six for six before injury intervened. He lost his unbeaten record on his return after fifteen months out in August, behind Yuseong Fighting. He’ll settle handy probably close to Power Blade.

5. Royal Impact (KOR) [Cielo Gold] 5 H (33/5/6/0) – Song Keong Yun
Drops back to 1400M for the first time in some considerable time, he has struggled to make an impact in class 1 but scored a creditable 5th behind Triple Nine in the Owners’ Cup at a mile in August. He’ll settle at the back and try to be the closer here.

The Kookje Sinmun Cup is the feature among a 6-race card at Busan from 12:50 to 17:05. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00. The Seoul meeting will be broadcast live on Sky Racing in Australia and a full race-by-race preview will follow.

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (October 2)

It’s a big day of racing in the peninsula as Oaks winner Ottug Ottugi heads the line-up in Seoul in the Jeju Governor’s Cup, a race that brings together some of the top Korean bred fillies on the peninsula. At Busan, Macheon Bolt is the one they have to beat in a top class feature handicap.

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Ottug Ottugi and Choi Si Dae, seen here at the Korea Sprint, return to Seoul Sunday (Pic: Ross Holburt)

English Racecards are here. All Seoul races are available on the TAB in Australia.Race-by-race preview (except Busan race 1) 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)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 10:40 

Two standouts here and we’ll go with (11) SMART PARK to beat (9) LEAD MONEY. The latter would perhaps have won last time had he not shifted inwards away from the whip in the closing stages and gets another chance here. Among the rest, (6) CUPID FLOWER was beaten by Lead Money on debut in August and can improve for it while (2) LUIBAN, (3) RAON ROCKY and (10) GOLDEN STEP look best of the first-timers.

Selections (11) Smart Park (9) Lead Money (6) Cupid Flower (3) Raon Rocky
Next Best 10, 2
Rating –
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 6
Start-200M 9, 4, 5, 11, 6
200M-Finish 11, 8, 6, 9, 5

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

(6) NHA TRANG has improved on each start so far and was 2nd in a weak race over 1000M a month ago. He tries 1300M for the first time today and can win from on the early speed. Main danger is (4) HAWK EYES, narrowly beaten into 3rd last start and with a strong finish. The rest look indifferent at best. It’s not a good sign to still be at class 6 after 23 starts but (1) DREAM KING should be capable of beating a few of these while (2) PROUD and (9) NONGBON OREUM can also compete for places.

Selections (4) Hawk Eyes (6) Nha Trang (2) Proud (1) Dream King
Next Best 9, 3
Rating –
Fast Starters 6, 9
Start-200M 6, 4, 8, 2, 9
200M-Finish 4, 6, 2, 3, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 11:30 

(3) NO MERCY was 2nd on debut at the beginning of September, having briefly led close to home and he is one of the main contenders here. He’ll look to lead all the way. (5) BINNANEUN TALLYEOK was a much improved 2nd on what was her fourth start at the end of August. She’s not a fast starter and may appreciate the extra half furlong today. (1) I AM CAPTAIN was a slightly disappointing 6th last time but gets another chance while (4) SUNNY SKY and (6) HIMCHAN CHULBAL look best of the rest.

Selections (3) No Mercy (5) Binnaneun Tallyeok (1) I Am Captain (6) Himchan Chulbal
Next Best 4, 7
Rating –
Fast Starters 3, 7
Start-200M 3, 7, 1, 2, 4
200M-Finish 6, 5, 8, 4, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 12:10 

(9) RAON CONDOR was a three-length winner on debut a month ago and while she had little to beat that day and is up in class here, she will be competitive. (5) STORM RYKER has been knocking on the door of the places at this class and should be going close here while (3) GEUMBIT ROAD returns after nine months off and looked sharp in a trial in the summer. (7) SUPER ROCKET and (8) SAEBYEOCK BULKKOT both improved last start and may be considered.

Selections (5) Storm Ryker (9) Raon Condor (7) Super Rocket (3) Geumbit Road
Next Best 8, 11
Rating 1, 5, 7, 4=9
Fast Starters 3, 7, 8, 9
Start-200M 9, 7, 3, 5, 8
200M-Finish 3, 11, 4, 2, 1

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:15 

Really open race all-filly race. (1) PUREUN JILJU was a winner on debut last month but will have to find plenty if she’s to repeat. Just as likely to make the step up is (11) GEUMSAEKJO, who looked good making all to get her own maiden win on August 28th. (7) EONJE EODISEONA and (8) MARI have both run twice at this level and should be competitive while (2) ECTON GAYA and especially (3) DOLCE VITA are others to consider.

Selections (11) Geumsaekjo (7) Eonje Eodiseona (3) Dolce Vita (1) Pureun Jilju
Next Best 8, 2, 10
Rating 7, 8, 11, 1, 2
Fast Starters 6, 7, 8, 10
Start-200M 8, 7, 10, 6, 5
200M-Finish 2, 11, 10, 9, 1

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:40 

(11) GASOK ACE is up in class following his maiden win last time and looks nicely in for a repeat today. Rivals are (9) GOLDEN KINGS returned from five months off to record a solid 5th place earlier this month and should have come on for the run and (10) KWAESEOK BOLT, already a winner at this level and top weight here. The inconsistent (3) ACE POWER looks best of the rest.

Selections (11) Gasok Ace (10) Kwaeseok Bolt (9) Golden Kings (3) Ace Power
Next Best 1, 5, 6
Rating 10, 6, 11, 3, 9
Fast Starters 3, 11
Start-200M 3, 11, 9, 1, 8
200M-Finish 11, 9, 7, 2, 10

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

Only one previous winner amongst this lot and that’s (12) GYODUBO, who races for the first time since that victory, achieved on a muddy track in July. He’s top weight but has claims again. (1) BROOKS comes in following a 3rd and a 2nd from his last two and should place again while (2) TOTAL WALKER is always well-supported and may find conditions more favourable today. (8) SINGIPARANG is one start into a comeback following over a year off and can improve with (7) MUSTANG STRONG, (9) ALL KILL and (11) GUKJE MYEONGPUM among a number of others to watch.

Selections (12) Gyodubo (1) Brooks (2) Total Walker (7) Mustang Strong
Next Best 8, 11, 9, 10
Rating 8, 12, 10, 1, 2
Fast Starters 1, 7, 8, 12
Start-200M 7, 8, 6, 10, 12
200M-Finish 12, 8, 10, 2, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 

(2) CAPITAL GANGJA comes in following three consecutive 2nd place finishes and taking her chance against imports can go one better here. She beat (5) KKEUTPAN BOOSTER into 3rd last time out and both should be in contention with the latter carrying 3kg less today. Main danger is Kim Young Kwan’s (8) MATCH POWER, 3rd on his second start a month ago and surely a winner at some stage. (10) DEVIL KING and (11) YEGEURINA are also to be considered.

Selections (5) Kkeutpan Booster (8) Match Power (2) Capital Gangja (11) Yegeurina
Next Best 10, 4
Rating 11, 6=9, 7, 4
Fast Starters 1, 3
Start-200M 1, 2, 5, 11, 3
200M-Finish 11, 4, 6, 5, 8

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

Competitive race here. (1) MISUJAE and (3) DANGCHANBISANG are up in class after slightly unexpected wins at 1200M and 1300M respectively. They’ll have a bit to find today but can be competitive. (2) SPECIAL ROAD HILL secured her second career win against softer opposition earlier this month and will also need to improve. (9) WHIZ SPEED, with two wins and two 2nds from his last four looks the one to beat although strong finisher (4) SUPER BROAD can improve on recent starts too. (6) CHEOLLI and (11) OFFIDAY also with claims.

Selections (9) Whiz Speed (4) Super Broad (1) Misujae (3) Dangchanbisang
Next Best 11, 6, 2
Rating 9, 11, 2=8, 4
Fast Starters 1, 3, 9, 11
Start-200M 9, 5, 3, 6, 1
200M-Finish 4, 11, 6, 2, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:20

(3) GABO STAR has been sent off at odds-on for all but one of his seven starts to date. He’s only won the two but while he is up in class here, he should be leading all the way from a favourable draw and making it three. He’s up against (7) GIFTED SUN though, a sharp winner over 1000M last month who is similarly up in class today and can provide a stern examination. (1) PHANTOM BLADE hasn’t lived up to early promise but can come on for his 5th place back from a spell three weeks ago while (2) SANGSEUNG MULGYEOL, (9) FOR MY SIS and (10) GIMAKIN JILJU are always reliably competitive.

Selections (3) Gabo Star (7) Gifted Sun (1) Phantom Blade (9) For My Sis
Next Best 10, 2
Rating 9, 10, 2=3, 6
Fast Starters 3
Start-200M 7, 3, 1, 4, 2
200M-Finish 2, 9, 5, 11, 10

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45 

(11) MIDAS ROAD stepped up in class last time just didn’t quicken enough, finish in 3rd at this distance. He gets a chance to return to winning ways today. He narrowly beat (7) KATIE STAR into 4th that day and she too will be competitive as indeed will (9) SUPER START, who beat Katie Star at class and distance in July before going on to disappoint when stepped up to 1400M last month, a race in which (2) ARGO CHAMP finished 2nd. (1) HUIMANG ROCKET was 5th on her first attempt at this level last month and should look to better it here while (8) JINNYEONGUI GEOIN is up in class today and has a bit to find but will be backed.

Selections (11) Midas Road (9) Super Start (7) Katie Star (2) Argo Champ
Next Best 8, 1
Rating 3, 10, 4=9, 11
Fast Starters 1, 3, 5, 7
Start-200M 7, 3, 10, 5, 9
200M-Finish 11, 7, 9, 8, 1

Busan Race 5: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 16:10 

 Small but competitive field and Peter Wolsley’s (3) PRIVATE DANCER showed he’s capable at this level with 2nd place (to a long-shot winner) at the beginning of the month, beating (2) WIN GO MAN into 3rd and can match or better that here. (4) BEOLMAUI SIN is the main danger, up in class and with more wins likely to come. (5) MACHU PICCHU was a strong 4th at class and distance a month ago and can look for the places here with (6) YEONGUNG BOLT the best of the rest.

Selections (3) Private Dancer (4) Beolmaui Sin (5) Machu Picchu (2) Win Go Man
Next Best 6
Rating 5, 6, 3, 4, 2
Fast Starters 2, 5
Start-200M 3, 2, 5, 4, 7
200M-Finish 4, 3, 5, 6, 1

Seoul Race 9: Class Open – Jeju Governor’s Cup (KOR G3) / 1400M / Allowance / KRW 300 Million / 16:40 

(6) OTTUG OTTUGI won the Korean Oaks and was 7th in the Korea Sprint here at Seoul three weeks ago. So far, the top filly of her generation, she can prove that here. She will try to make all. Her stablemate (3) SPECIAL ROOKIE was surprisingly beaten by (5) SANTA GLORIA in a trial for this race at the end of last month and both those will be contenders here. (8) CHANG SE was the winner of the corresponding trial at Seoul, beating (1) SMART TIME into 2nd, and will be dangerous as will (9) TOUCH FLYING and (13) RAON AMOS, both of whom come in on a run of four consecutive victories. The experienced Stakes winner (7) PINOT NOIR can never be ruled out of finding the money either and nor can (11) INDIAN STAR.

Selections (6) Ottug Ottugi (3) Special Rookie (8) Chang Se (5) Santa Gloria
Next Best 13, 7, 11, 9, 1
Rating 7=11, 6=9, 8
Fast Starters 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13
Start-200M 11, 6, 8, 13, 4
200M-Finish 12, 5, 7, 9, 2

Busan Race 6: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 17:05

(2) MACHEON BOLT was 2nd to Hong Kong’s Super Jockey in the Korea Sprint in Seoul three weeks ago over 1200M. He prefers further and has to be favourite to take the honours here. (8) GAMDONGUIBADA was an also-ran that day but should be much happier back on her home track while (9) MS. MARGAUX won on her first outing for trainer Thomas Gillespie earlier in the month and shouldn’t be too far away. (3) HEBA seems to have lost a touch of form recently but an apprentice jockey gives her much less weight to carry than usual. (6) TAPIPOINT, 3rd to Macheon Bolt last start, can look to place.

Selections (2) Macheon Bolt (8) Gamdonguibada (3) Heba (9) Ms. Margaux
Next Best 6, 4
Rating 8, 3, 2=9, 4
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6
Start-200M 6, 8, 5, 4, 2
200M-Finish 3, 2, 9, 7, 8

Seoul Race 10: Class 2 / 1900M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 17:30 

(4) SHAMROCKER is giving plenty of weight away but remains a strong contender here to get what would be his 3rd win in his last four starts. A beneficiary of that weight is (9) SAMBONG, who was a strong 2nd on his first try at this class at the beginning of the month. He may try to lead all the way. (3) SUPER COMMANDO is up in class and has a bit to find but may be considered. (1) NEULPUREUN TIGER and (10) NAMSAN CHUKJE may also contest for places.

Selections (4) Shamrocker (9) Sambong (3) Super Commando (10) Namsan Chukje
Next Best 1, 11
Rating 4, 5, 7, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 3, 9
Start-200M 10, 6, 3, 9, 5
200M-Finish 4, 7, 3, 9, 8

Seoul Race 11: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00

Both (4) ACE RUNNER and (8) KENTUCKY YEONIN are up in class following maiden wins on what for both of them was their second start last time out. Both made all and both will be looking for the same again here. (10) KODIAK LOVE beat a number of these when running 2nd at class and distance on September 4th and will be in contention once more with (6) KOREA JEONGSANG and (12) JEONMUHUMU among a number of others with claims.

Selections (8) Kentucky Yeonin (4) Ace Runner (10) Kodiak Love (12) Jeonmuhumu
Next Best 6, 8, 7
Rating 2, 10, 9, 8=12
Fast Starters 3, 4, 5, 8, 9
Start-200M 11, 5, 8, 4, 3
200M-Finish 4, 6, 11, 10, 2

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 23)

Horse racing in Korea gets back to business this weekend. Busan gets things going on Friday with an 11-race card from 14:20 to 21:00, Seoul goes on Saturday with a card running from 14:00 to 21:00 while both tracks operate daytime racing on Sunday.

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Paolo Aragoni was 3rd in the korea Cup on Triple Nine – he returns to busan on friday (Pic: Ross Holburt)

 

English racecards are here. Nores on Friday’s races 1-9 are below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 13:20 (SIN)

Only one of these has raced before, (6) BEONGGEULBEONGGEUL. She was 3rd on debut last month and can go on here. She probably won’t be favourite though as two of the debut-makers, (3) I’M ADELE and (7) TWO TWO RAPTOR, won their trials, with the latter looking especially impressive in the process. Peter Wolsley’s (10) SECRET MARINE showed promise in their own trials as did (1) KEUN MABEOP and (11) HWARANGUI HUYE. (5) CAPTAIN BLADE is from Korea’s top stable and is sure to well-backed also.

Selections (6) Beonggeulbeonggeul (7) Two Two Raptor (10) Secret Marine (3) I’m Adele
Next Best 1, 11, 5, 8
Outsiders 2, 4, 9, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3, 11

Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 13:45 (SIN)

Maiden fillies (and one mare) here and top trainer Kim Young Kwan’s (11) PINK BLADE is favourite to score after an encouraging enough 3rd place on debut on August 26th. She beat (7) RECHAE into 4th that day and Rechae too can go close again. (5) SWEET WHY was an improved 3rd at this distance just two weeks ago and can be considered while (8) NIPSYS should have come on from their debuts. The more experienced (9) PALMYRA is the wildcard while even (10) IGIPPEUM GEUDAERO, winless in 35 outings, can find the minor money.

Selections (11) Pink Blade (7) Rechae (5) Sweet Why (8) Nipsys
Next Best 9, 10, 6, 3, 4
Outsiders 1, 2, 12
Fast Starters 1, 5, 6, 9

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:10 (SIN)

Another maiden race and (8) CHOEGANG OFFICER and (10) PARK MAN both try further than the minimum distance for the first time. It should suit both but while the former will be on speed early, the latter can finish quickly and is strongly favoured to prevail here. (9) MAGIC WINNER beat two of these when recording his best finish to date three weeks ago and will be at much shorter odds today. (1) SUPER WINGS was much improved when dropped back in trip to 1000M last time but can be given another chance here while (3) HAPPY LIGHT and (4) SAMHYEONGJE are others to consider.

Selections (10) Park Man (8) Choegang Officer (9) Magic Winner (1) Super Wings
Next Best 3, 4, 5, 2, 13
Outsiders 6, 7, 11, 12, 14
Fast Starters 4, 8, 14

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 14:55 (SIN)

The last of the maiden races. (10) INDIAN KING disappointed when well fancied on debut but showed plenty of improvement at the end of August when running 2nd. The step up in trip today may be exactly what he needs. He’ll want to be on speed early as will (14) MAJOR DANCER, also a much improved 3rd last start and with potential to go on. (3) TAEGWON MISO, (4) ROAD TO SUCCESS and (7) PUREUN GANGJA are all capable of placing at this level. While the only debut-maker, Peter Wolsley’s (9) ROYAL RUBY can also be considered first up following a good trial.

Selections (10) Indian King (14) Major Dancer (9) Royal Ruby (3) Taegwon Miso
Next Best 4, 7, 11, 1, 12
Outsiders 2, 5, 6, 8, 13
Fast Starters 10, 14

Race 5: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:40 (SIN)

(11) I’M YOUR FATHER beat some decent horses when winning on debut last month and can follow up here. Should thrive with an extra furlong. Thomas Gillespie’s (4) ACE SINHWA has come close in recent starts and looks nicely in here under an apprentice jockey. (1) JUNGANG DAERO is up in class following two wins from his last three and can be competitive while (5) PAMAPAS FARM and (7) ARION METAL are both yet to score but are capable of moneying in this company.

Selections (11) I’m Your Father (4) Ace Sinhwa (1) Jungang Daero (7) Arion Metal
Next Best 5, 3, 8
Outsiders 2, 6, 9, 10
Fast Starters 10, 11

Race 6: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:25 (SIN)

(6) RACHEL made all to win on debut at this distance last month. She’s up in class today but Bart Rice’s filly is favoured to repeat. (11) YUSEONGCHEOREOM was also a debut winner but could only manage 4th on his first try at this level in August. Dropped back to 1000M today, he should be closer. Yuseongcheoreom did manage to beat (3) MACHEON CHIRON last time and she too should see improvement back at the minimum today. (4) MISS CANBERRA and the up in class (8) HUIMANG CHANGA are others with claims.

Selections (6) Rachel (11) Yuseongcheoreom (3) Macheon Chiron (4) Miss Canberra
Next Best 8, 2, 1, 7, 5
Outsiders 9, 10, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3, 6, 11

Race 7: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:05 (SIN)

A four-length winner on debut, (1) SINUIPUMGYEOK is up in class and distance but should surely have too much for this field. (11) SHINE STAR was an even more ye-catching winner on his debut in July and followed up with a 3rd place at this level on August 26th and looks the main danger. (14) WHITTE QUEENS closed strongly for 2nd last start at class and distance and will want to be closer to the speed today while (2) YAKSOKUI SIGAN and (7) REALLY ONE look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Sinuipumgyeok (11) Shine Star (14) Whitte Queens (7) Really One
Next Best 2, 4, 5, 12, 9
Outsiders 3, 6, 8, 10, 13
Fast Starters 1, 7, 8, 14

Race 8: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:45 (SIN)

Competitive race and while (10) TEXAS RUSH is yet to score in eight, she’s come close and we’ll go with her to come from just off the pace to finally get it right today. (2) DAEJIUI HUIMANG beat Texas Rush last time and should be competitive again. She’ll look to lead early along with (3) DANCING STAR and (14) FOCUS LINE, both of whom can stay on. A danger from the back is (5) BIGBANG BID. He’s closed strongly to get a win and a 2nd place from his last two outings and can go well again here.

Selections (10) Texas Rush (2) Daejiui Huimang (5) Bigbang Bid (3) Dancing Star
Next Best 14, 8, 4, 6, 12
Outsiders 1, 7, 9, 11, 13
Fast Starters 2, 3, 9, 14

Race 9: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 18:35 (SIN)

(13) GABOGAPJJANG and (3) LET’S WIN are both up in class having finished 1st and 2nd racing over 1200M at the end of last month; the time before they were 2nd and 3rd. They both look nicely in here with GABOGAPJJANG favoured once more. (2) SUPER CHEOLIN is two starts in a comeback following a lengthy spell and looks to be coming back into form while (11) SOUL BLADE and the up in class pair of (4) GANGJA BONSAEK and (9) JILJUUI SIN should be capable of going close.

Selections (13) Let’s Win (2) Super Cheolin (3) Let’s Win (11) Soul Blade
Next Best 4, 9, 10, 5, 1, 12
Outsiders 6, 7, 8, 14
Fast Starters 5, 7, 11, 12

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Full Preview (September 11)

It’s Keeneland Korea Cup & Sprint Day at Seoul. There are 11 races in the capital from 10:50 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 5 races from 12:20 to 15:55. English race cards are here. Full race-by-race preview below:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 10:50

Djordje Perovic picked up where he left off last week on his return to Korea after three months away and he can strike quickly with (2) EORIN WANGJA here. The colt was an improved 3rd on July 31st and can go even better today. First timers (8) HAENGUN MONEY and (10) RAON KINGDOM looked good in trials and can compete while (4) GOLDSTAR HILLS and (6) SIMCHEONG SADAL also look to have promise.

Selections (2) Eorin Wangja (8) Haengun Money (10) Raon Kingdom (4) Goldstar Hills
Next Best 6, 5, 11, 12
Outsiders 1, 3, 7, 9,
Fast Starters 2, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 11:15

2nd on debut three weeks ago, (5) SAGYEJEOL is strongly favoured to go one better today. She should lead from the gate and should have too much. (4) GEUMA BENIR has come close in recent starts and should be placing as should (7) FULL GAIN, an improved 3rd last start. (8) EUNBIT NARAE was beaten three lengths by Sagyejeol in that August 20th race but can beat some of these today.

Selections (5) Sagyejeol (4) Geuma Benir (7) Full Gain (8) Eunbit Narae
Next Best 6, 1, 3, 2
Fast Starters 1, 5

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

Brian Dean’s (2) JUNGL DRUMMER won on debut in May and looks ready to win again having flown through a trial last week under today’s jockey Jo Sung Gon. He’s the one to beat. (5) RUNNER QUEEN and (6) SERA KING look to be the main dangers having run 4th and 3rd respectively in a good race at this distance a month ago. (3) DEOKSUNG ILHO, up in class following her maiden win, and (7) STORM RYKER are others in the hunt.

Selections (2) Jungl Drummer (6) Sera King (5) Runner Queen (7) Storm Ryker
Next Best 3, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 5, 6

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00

Full field in this all-filly race but probably the banker favourite of the day. That’s (11) HYESEONG YEOWANG, up in class after a facile 9-length win over the minimum on August 21st. This is her first time going further than 1000M but she should have too much. Also up in class is (5) EVA ROAD and she can be considered once more while (6) DIXIE SMILE and (10) SOKDO SHINHWA are both experienced money winners – if not actual winners – at this level. Yet to win at all is (12) MAMBO CHEONHA but she’s finished no worse than 3rd in her last six outings and could maintain that today.

Selections (11) Hyeseong Yeowang (6) Dixie Smile (12) Mambo Cheonha (10) Sokdo Shinhwa
Next Best 5, 3, 9, 1, 2, 7
Outsiders 4, 8, 13, 14
Fast Starters 8, 9, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:45

(9) ULTRA ROCKET landed his maiden win at class and distance three weeks ago, he’ll be on speed early here and there’s no reason why he can’t make it two in a row. In this company (4) HIGH VET and (11) DANGCHANBISANG can improve, likewise the modestly named (3) BORN WINNER, who struggled on his first try at this level last month but has the services of Djordje Perovic aboard today. (7) HAPJAKPUM looks best of the rest.

Selections (9) Ultra Rocket (11) Dangchanbisang (4) High Vet (3) Born Winner
Next Best 7, 5, 8, 10, 1
Outsiders 2, 6, 12
Fast Starters 5, 9, 11

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:35

Plenty of unraced imports go here but it’s a Korean-bred who is likely to be favourite. (11) ATHENA THUNDER is two for two and is therefore up in class. He could be craftily entered to maintain his 1000% record although he is tried at further than the minimum distance for the first time. Main danger and almost certain to be 2nd favourite is (9) SPIRIT OF HANSEN. He’s been 2nd in both starts to date and surely has a win in him soon. (2) MEGA IMPACT resumes nine weeks after scoring his maiden win in a similar race to this at 1000M and can be considered while (14) GANGTA beat (1) SMOKEY VALE on what was the latter’s debut last month and both can be considered here.

Selections (11) Athena Thunder (9) Spirit Of Hansen (14) Gangta (2) Mega Impact
Next Best 1, 3, 6, 5, 12
Outsiders 4, 7, 8, 10, 13
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6, 11, 12

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:25

Big and competitive field. (2) GEUMA ZEUS was a class and distance winner last start, closing strongly and while he carries more weight today, can be respected. Looking for a hat-trick of wins is (11) NABOM CASTLE. He races for the first time in three months and carries top weight but can be considered. He’ll try to lead, as will (6) HURI BARAM, who disappointed on his first try at this class last month, when beaten by (12) RULES, but gets another chance today under champion jockey Moon Se Young. Up in class (5) SUN MASTER and (8) ÉCLAIR HUMOR need to improve but can go well.

Selections (2) Geuma Zeus (6) Huri Baram (5) Sun Master (12) Rules
Next Best 8, 11, 4, 7, 1, 13
Outsiders 3, 9, 10, 14
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 6, 8

 Seoul Race 8: Class Open – The Keeneland Korea Sprint (KOR G1) / 1200M / Weight for Age / KRW 700 Million / 16:25

FULL PREVIEW. The first of two international races on the card and Singapore’s (9) SUPER WINNER, in sparking form at Kranji over the summer has settled into Seoul Racecourse well, has drawn adequately if not ideally and is a serious contender for this big prize. He is likely to be the favourite. Main dangers look to be Hong Kong’s (2) SUPER JOCKEY, who has proven himself over similar surfaces in the past and US Group 1 winner (10) WILD DUDE. Among the Korean entries, (8) PERDIDO POMEROY is the pick with Oaks winner (7) OTTUG OTTUGI and last year’s Asia Challenge Cup winner (when he beat El Padrino) (6) CHOEGANG SCHILLER, the wildcard.

Selections (2) Super Jockey (10) Wild Dude (9) Super Winner (8) Perdido Pomeroy
Next Best 7, 6, 13, 3, 1, 4, 14
Outsiders 5, 11, 12, 15, 16
Fast Starters 6, 7, 8, 13

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:55

(1) SPACE SHUTTLE was overwhelmed in a couple of Stakes races earlier this year but can go well in this company and is one of a number of contenders here. (3) GAIA THUNDER comes in off back to back wins and tries this distance for the first time as does (11) CHOWONUI CHANGA. Both can be considered here as can (4) CHEONHABI, who made all to win at 1300M a month and is up in class here. (7) VALLEY STAR and (9) QUEEN HUDSON, both prior winners at the distance are the wildcard picks

Selections (3) Gaia Thunder (11) Chowonui Changa (4) Cheonhabi (1) Space Shuttle
Next Best 10, 8, 7, 9
Outsiders 2, 5, 6
Fast Starters 4, 10

Seoul Race 10: Class Open – The Keeneland Korea Cup (KOR G1) / 1800M / Weight for Age / KRW 1 Billion / 17:30

FULL PREVIEW. The second international race looks very competitive. Singapore’s (15) INFANTRY hasn’t drawn well but if he can find a decent position from the outside, he has every chance of going well having taken to the Seoul track a little better than the other Kranji raider (1) ORDER OF THE SUN. The Japanese pair of (3) CHRYSOLITE and (7) KURINO STAR O look the ones to beat with jockey Joe Fujii’s Seoul experience perhaps being a crucial factor on the former. UK all-weather specialist (8) SOLAR DEITY and French visitor (2) FAMOUS MARK provide intrigue. There could be a Korean winner. Triple Crown winner (16) POWER BLADE has had a long season but home fans will be hoping for a solid performance from him and stablemate (13) TRIPLE NINE. However, it may be that (5) BEOLMAUI KKUM is the most dangerous member of the home team.

Selections (3) Chrysolite (5) Beolmaui Kkum (16) Power Blade (15) Infantry
Next Best 7, 13, 1, 8, 2, 10, 4
Outsiders 6, 9, 11, 12, 14
Fast Starters 5, 9, 12

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

(5) GOREOUS DREAM didn’t get into the Korea Sprint so instead he tries class 1 for the first time here. He also stretches out to 1400M which may be more of a concern that the step up in class but if he does handle the distance, he should win. (3) ALWAYS WINNER also steps up to class 1. He wan the JRA Trophy at this distan ce in June before struggling at Kranji the following month. Back at Seoul, he should be dangerous. The two “suns” (11) SUN SHOT and (14) SUN BURSTER look best of the rest.

Selections (5) Goreous Dream (3) Always Winner (11) Sun Shot (14) Sun Burster
Next Best 7, 6, 10, 9, 1, 13
Outsiders 2, 4, 8, 12
Fast Starters 3, 4, 5, 10

Korea Cup: Final Preview

It’s time. The Keeneland Korea Cup and Sprint are upon us. I went into detail about the Korea Sprint at the Hong Kong Jockey Club website so we’ll focus on the Cup here.

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A quick word on the Sprint though, I’m going to stick with Super Jockey although Super Winner will almost certainly begin as favourite and deservedly so on recent form. Wild Dude looks very dangerous. As hoped for, it’s a really open race which any number could win. As indeed is the Cup. Let’s get into it.

First off, the draw. At first glance, (16) POWER BLADE and (15) INFANTRY were the big losers. Jockey Kim Yong Geun’s theatrics at the barrier draw certainly suggested that, however, while nobody would have chosen gate 16, Power Blade began the Cup Mile from gate 10 and the Derby from gate 12. There are other reasons why it may be tough for Power Blade, which we will return to. As for Infantry, he can overcome it and having adapted to the sand reasonably well, is one of the main contenders.

The Japanese pair of (3) CHRYSOLITE and and (7) KURINO STAR O do look very dangerous. The track should hold no concerns for them and the draw has been very kind. With Joe Fujii on board, it is possible that Korean punters may make Chrysolite the favourite. He should settle reasonably handy and has a great chance.

(1) ORDER OF THE SUN is a capable sort but he was well-beaten by Infantry over a mile in July and that, combined with concerns on the sand, will make him less fancied that his fellow Singapore raider. Representing the UAE is (6) NEED TO KNOW. It’s not the racing season there right now so he hasn’t raced since April. Even with Tadhg O’Shea on board, this is a tough ask.

Europe is represented by Jane Chapple-Hyam’s (8) SOLAR DEITY. He’s an all-weather specialist who can’t be judged on his recent turf form (he’s been racing in very strong company) and while he won’t be among the favourites, a strong performance is possible under Darryll Holland, who rode this track when based in Korea at Busan. Moroccan bred (2) FAMOUS MARK represents France. He is another who hasn’t found it easy on the turf but was 3rd in a Listed race on dirt in Sweden in May and is another with a good draw today.

As for the Korean horses, Power Blade does have to catch the eye as we don’t really know how good he is yet. He won the Triple Crown without being seriously tested but this is a challenge of a whole different order and while he has only raced four times this year, can he be in peak condition once again? One hopes so but while a sizable minority in the Korean racing media have him to win, a top five finish would be creditable. That’s true too for stablemate (13) TRIPLE NINE, winner of last month’s Owner’s Cup over a mile.

Perhaps the most likely of the Korea-trained contingent is (5) BEOLMAUI KKUM. He made all to beat Triple Nine by five lengths in the Busan Mayor’s Cup in July, finally taking out a big race. Some observers argue that he is one of the most gifted horses to ever run in Korea but suffered from overwork in his early career. At 6, he now looks to be at his best and if he runs at it on Sunday, he could even win. He will almost certainly look to lead from gate-to wire.

Joining Beolmaui Kkum on the early speed will be (12) SAENGIL GIPPEUM and possibly (9) GUMPO SKY. Both are more than capable at this distance but staying on in this company will be tough. (11) DYNAMIC DASH has just been found a little wanting in good domestic company in his last couple of starts while Seoul-based (14) DYNAMIC JILJU hasn’t really faced much in the way of quality opposition. (4) MIRAE YEONGUNG and (10) WONDER BOLT are likely to be slower away. Both have strong finishes and are capable of picking off a few in the closing stages.

Fingers crossed for a good and safe race.

Selections: (3) Chrysolite (15) Infantry (5) Beolmaui Kkum (7) Kurino Star O (16) Power Blade

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 10)

International weekend gets underway at Seoul Racecourse on Saturday and while the Cup and Sprint are tomorrow, there’s still plenty going on. There are four exchange “Trophy races” with the Macau Jockey Club, Singapore Turf Club, Hong Kong Jockey Club and Horse Racing Ireland as well as the official launch of the new 127 metre-long screen. In total there are 13 races from 14:00 to 21:00. English racecards here, brief notes on races 1-10 below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 14:00 

Nine of the twelve debut here and trial “winner” (7) RAON QUANTUM is set to be the one to beat. He finished strongly in his trial, beating a couple who also debut here and should go well under the champion jockey. Among other debut makers, (6) MY VISION and (10) USEUNGUI CHUEOK caught the eye in trials, however the main danger is likely to be one of those with experience. (3) YEOKDAE CHOESANG was 3rd on debut at the end of July and can have come on for that.

Selections (7) Raon Quantum (3) Yeokdae Choesang (6) My Vision (10) Useungui Chueok
Next Best 1, 8, 11, 4
Outsiders 2, 5, 9, 12
Fast Starters 6, 8, 9

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 

Big field and despite a trainer/jockey combination that isn’t in form (3) RECONQUISTA has to be slight favourite here. He beat three of these when running 2nd a month ago at this distance and can go one better today. (11) CALL ME JK comes in following a career best 2nd the same day and can come close once more as can (14) GANGJASEUNG, who improved under an apprentice jockey last time out and has the same rider returning today. Brian Dean’s (2) CALEDONIA can also improve on his debut run behind Reconquista while (1) WON AGAIN – yet to win – is the other one to consider.

Selections (3) Reconquista (2) Caledonia (11) Call Me JK (14) Gangjaseung
Next Best 1, 8, 5, 10
Outsiders 4, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13
Fast Starters 5

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:30 

Another full field and this race is part of a brief challenge for some of the jockeys in town for Sunday’s international races. The Koreans have got the best of the draw with (6) DARK AMBER likely to be disputing favourite status with (10) MONDAY MONEY. Both look ready to win. (9) MENI VET has come close on each of her last four outings and should do so again while among the foreign riders, Abderahim Faddoul has perhaps the best draw with (7) YESANGBAEK SEUNG. Also in with a shout is (5) IBAEGJEOM.

Selections (6) Dark Amber (10) Monday Money (9) Menu Vet (7) Yesangbaek Seung
Next Best 5, 4, 14, 8, 3, 13
Outsiders 1, 2, 11, 12
Fast Starters 7, 9, 10, 12

Race 4: Class 4 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:15 

The first of the trophy races so a big prize on offer here. (4) GWANGYANG DOLPUNG Is favourite to land it having been a close 2nd his first try at class and distance last month. He’ll settle handy and could have too much late on. (7) SUBAEKHYANG and (2) DIXIE PLOIT come in having run 2nd and 3rd respectively at this distance on August 20th and will be competitive again while (5) RAON NARA and (8) DEVIL MAN are both up in class and nicely in here.

Selections (4) GWangyang Dolpung (2) Dixie Ploit (7) Subaekhyang (5) Raon Nara
Next Best  
Outsiders  
Fast Starters  

Race 5: Class Open – The Singapore Turf Club Trophy / 1400M / KRW 150 Million / 16:45

Some of the visiting jockeys return here for this filly-only trophy race although again it’s a local who has the best of the draw with Kim Yong Geun pulling out (9) RAON AMOS. The filly has won her last four with varying degrees of ease and while she faces a stiffer test here, she should be on speed early and can win again. (7) BLAZING STAR gives Tadgh O’Shea an opportunity to show what he can do; the 3-year-old won three in a row between April and June and should also be on speed here. (4) OUR CAT, (5) REWARD HIGH and (8) JEWELRY PARK look best of the rest in a nicely competitive race.

Selections (9) Raon Amos (7) Blazing Star (8) Jewelry Park (5) Reward High
Next Best 4, 2
Outsiders 1, 3, 6
Fast Starters 4, 7, 9

Race 6: Class Open Allowance / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 200 Million / 17:15 

The inaugural Hong Kong Jockey Club Trophy is for 2-year-olds who passed through local sales and there’s a huge prize on offer. (10) ROCKET QUEEN didn’t impress on debut last month but went back to trail just last week and absolutely flew through and Brian Dean’s filly comes into contention as a result. (3) CLEAN UP SKY and (9) LEAD MONEY were perhaps the most impressive on their debuts with (2) PHILLANIKE and (8) NEW WHY FI also showing potential for improvement.

Selections (10) Rocket Queen (3) Clean Up Sky (9) Lead Money (2) Phillanike
Next Best 8, 11, 1, 5, 12
Outsiders 4, 6, 7
Fast Starters 3, 5, 9, 10

Race 7: Class Open / 2000M / Weight for Age / KRW 150 Million / 17:55 

(5) SUN STRONG and (1) GASOKBULPAE ran 1st and 2nd over this distance in the Sports Chosun Cup in June. While Sun Strong struggled on reappreance at class 1 in July and Gasokbulpae han’t raced since, both look strong here. Gasokbulpae will try to lead from gate to wire. (2) CHEONJI STORM was a good 2nd in the Ilgan Sports Cup at the end of July and should be competitive on his first try at this distance while (3) ROYAL VICTORY and (7) HOWIMUSA look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Gasokbulpae (5) Sun Strong (2) Cheonji Storm (7) Howimusa
Next Best 6, 3, 4
Fast Starters 1

Race 8: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:35 

Back to the big fields. (10) WANJEON MULGYEOL provided trainer Kim Dong Chul with his first ever winner last month and it is possible he could provide him with his 2nd here. It won’t be easy though. (13) HAPPIEST was beaten by Wanjeon Mulgyeol last time but should get closer today while (2) CUPID PARK and (4) GEUMBIT SONATA can both improve on slightly disappointing outings last time while (12) CHOWON BOLT can build on a 3rd and a 2nd in his last two starts. (6) GWACHEON WONDER is up in class following a 2nd place over this distance and while he is yet to win in ten attempts, he looks nicely in here.

Selections (6) Gwacheon Wonder (10) Wanjeon Mulgyeol (12) Chowon Bolt (2) Cupid Park
Next Best 13, 4, 1, 8, 5
Outsiders 3, 7, 9, 11
Fast Starters  

Race 9: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 19:00 

(10) SILLA HWARANG is up in class following his maiden win on his second start and he is favoured to keep improving her. He should come from just behind an early pace that could be set by (11) PINK STAR, who has just the one win in 25 races but has been coming close recently. (2) DRAGON SPEED comes in following an improved 3rd in July and then ten weeks off and can go well while (3) HWANHUIUISUNGAN and (8) HWANSANGUI DOYAK look best of the rest.

Selections (10) Silla Hwarang (11) Pink Star (2) Dragon Speed (3) Hwanhuiuisungan
Next Best 8, 7, 1
Outsiders 4, 5, 6, 9
Fast Starters 5, 6, 11

Race 10: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 19:25 

Two standouts here with (3) VIVA TRINITY a class and distance winner on August 20th. He carries more weight today but can follow up. (6) SEONGBULOREUM’s recent form is better than 6th and 5th from her last two suggest – both were tight and with more luck she could have got closer coming from off the pace. (7) PRO MATEUS is inconsistent but can improve here while (2) SHINE CLOVER and (12) INDIE RUNNER are others to take into account.

Selections (3) Viva Trinity (6) Seongbuloreum (12) Indie Runner (7) Pro Mateus
Next Best 2, 10, 5, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 9, 11, 13, 14
Fast Starters

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 9)

The barrier draws for Sunday’s inaugural Keeneland Korea Cup & Sprint were held this morning in Seoul. Before we get to that though, we have plenty of regular action to take care of. The weekend’s racing starts in Busan on Friday where there are 11 races from 14:20 to 21:00. English racecards are here and notes on races 1-9 are below:

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

Italian jockey Francisco Da Silva makes his Korean debut here and it could be a winning one on (3) BAEKDUBONG. The colt was a solid 2ndon debut in July and can go one better here. Main danger is (7) DAREUMBAKJIL, also 2nd on debut last month behind a decent winner. Debut-makers (6) TRIPLE KING looks next best while (5) EORIN YEOWANG can improve from his debut last month.

Selections (7) Dareumbakjil (3) Baekdubong (6) Triple King (5) Eorin Yeowang
Next Best 1, 2, 4
Fast Starters 1, 6

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

Only three of the eight have raced before and of those, (7) CHOEGANG DRIVER was an improved 6th on her second start behind some promising ones and can progress again here. Da Silva gets another opportunity on (4) SUMMIT DAY, 2nd in a trial last month and who along with (2) GOLDEN BULLET, looks the most promising of the debut-makers. The two others with racing experience, (3) EGSEU BAND and (8) QUEEN’S BULLET are next best.

Selections (4) Summit Day (7) Choegang Driver (2) Golden Bullet (3) Egseu Band
Next Best 8, 1
Outsiders 5, 6
Fast Starters 3, 4, 7

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:10 

With two 3rds from three outings to date, filly (1) AREUMDAUN OECHIM is strongly favoured to strike this time as the standout in a big but limited field. Bearing in mind the quality – or lack thereof – of the opposition, Peter Wolsley’s (6) COURAGIO, the only debut-maker, has to be well supported while (5) PYEONGDAEMYEONGMUN, with two 4ths from three starts, can also go well. Plenty of experience, if not necessarily talent, among the rest so (4) CHASEDAE and (10) AQUA QUEEN should be capable of competing for the money.

Selections (1) Areumdaun Oechim (6) Couragio (5) Pyeongdaemyeongmun (4) Chasedae
Next Best 10, 2, 9, 8, 12, 3
Outsiders 7, 11, 13, 14
Fast Starters 5, 13

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 

Another Peter Wolsley debut-maker. (4) YUSEONG FIRST, looks the one to beat here in this all-filly affair. She looked promising in trials and can get off to a winning start in less than intimidating company. (6) LADY LUCK should be scoring the best result of her career to date, coming in following a 3rd and a 4th in her last two starts. (1) BEST ECTON and (7) SWEET WHY, both under apprentice jockeys can also improve on what they’ve done before.

Selections (4) Yuseong First (6) Lady Luck (1) Best Ecton (7) Sweet Why
Next Best 3, 8
Outsiders 2, 5
Fast Starters 2, 4, 7

Race 5: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:40 

We’re finally done with the maidens and onto a competitive looking race. As we often do in these type of class 4 races, we’ll go for the experienced Korean breds over the imports. (1) YEONGTO DAEWANG is up in class   following her second win just two weeks ago. She looks a good sprinter and can make all here. Also a good looking sprinter is (9) V DIVA. She returned from four months off to triumph over this distance on August 7th and is too up in class here with solid claims. (8) HUIMANG QUEEN has finished no worse than 4th in eight runs to fate and should keep that record intact today. Among the imports, (5) BARAMUI HEUNJEOK can improve on the 6th he scored on debut while first-timer (11) PASSION D’OR looked promising in trials.

Selections (1) Yeongto Daewang (9) V Diva (8) Huimang Queen (11) Passion D’Or
Next Best 5, 4, 10, 3
Outsiders 2, 6, 7, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3, 4

Race 6: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:25 

Competitive race here and Bart Rice’s (7) FOCUS LINE just gets the verdict. Yet to win in four but looked ok first up at this level a month ago and can improve from just off the pace. (12) CHOEGANG ADVENTURE has a 2nd and a 3rd at this level and if he can get to the front from gate 12, could have strong claims while (2) JERAJIN, who didn’t find it easy in an all-filly race at this class three weeks ago can also improve today. (5) BAEDARI HAENGUN and (6) WONDERFULCHEONGHAE look best of the rest.

Selections (7) Focus Line (12) Choegang Adventure (2) Jerajin (5) Baedari Haengun
Next Best 6, 1, 14, 10, 8, 2
Outsiders 3, 4, 9, 11
Fast Starters 3, 10, 11, 12

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:05

(14) BRACHAH beat four of these when finishing 3rd over class and distance just two weeks ago and despite drawing the outside gate here is favoured to beat them once more and this time come home in front. It won’t be easy though. (3) CHEONGCHUN CHAMP is up in class following a pair of 2nd places at class 6 and looks to have scope for development while (2) MAKGANG JILJU has come close in each of her last four and can do so again. (4) GAMSEONG POKBAL is up in class following her maiden win at this distance. She has plenty to find but can be competitive while (8) OH MY CAPTAIN and (11) FIRST SUN are others to consider.

Selections (14) Brachah (3) Cheongchun Champ (2) Makgang Jilju (11) First Sun
Next Best 8, 4, 7, 6, 9
Outsiders 1, 5, 10, 12, 13
Fast Starters 8, 11, 14

Race 8: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:45 

Another really competitive race with (6) USEUNG CHOEGO marginally favoured to improve on 3rd place at class and distance on August 12th. Main danger is (9) GERMAN JEONCHA, 2nd on his first try at the distance three weeks ago and likely to set the pace here. He looks a potential talent at this and further distances. (7) THE STARS has only won once but is always dangerous; she beat (8) GO JJANG by a length last time out as the pair ran 3rd and 4th over a mile and both should be competitive again here. Up in class and distance, (2) HUIMANG PARADE may also be considered.

Selections (6) Useung Choego (9) German Jeoncha (2) Huimang Parade (7) The Stars
Next Best 8, 10, 3, 11
Outsiders 1, 4, 5
Fast Starters 9

Race 9: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 19:35 

Bart Rice’s (6) JANGGUNEUI HUYE comes in having won three from three since being a little overmatched in the Korean Oaks in June. She’s a talented sprinter and should have too much for this opposition. (8) V MAN, a Korean Derby also-ran, and (10) GIGA SPEED can go close but will have to find a little extra to compete with the favourite while (4) SINSEGYE SINHWA and (7) GANGJA DAERO also look in the running for the places.

Selections (6) Jangguneui Huye (8) V Man (10) Giga Speed (4) Sinsegye Sinhwa
Next Best 7, 11, 12, 3
Outsiders 1, 2, 5, 9
Fast Starters 5

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September2)

The weekend’s racing gets underway on Friday afternoon with an 11-race card at Busan. The first is at 2.20pm and the last is at 9pmEnglish racecards are here. Notes on selected races below:

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

Ten of the twelve are first-time starters and of them, (1) QUEEN’S QUEEN showed the most in trials, comfortably defeating a couple of the others who debut here and she should go well. The other market leader is going to be (7) MORNING PARK. He’s one of the two who has raced before, finishing a creditable, if unspectacular 4th on debut last month and can push on from that. (10) FOUR NINES, from Kim Young Kwan’s stable will also be backed despite an average trial. Among the other debut-makers, (2) HWANHUIUI BARAM, (6) NAMYANG QUEEN and (9) RICH BOLT look most promising at this stage.

Selections (1) Queen’s Queen (7) Morning Park (10) Four Nines (9) Rich Bolt
Next Best 2, 3, 6, 5, 8
Outsiders 4, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 9

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 

Third on debut at the minimum distance last month, (9) GASOK ACE is likely to be strong favourite to strike here. He should lead all the way. This is a big field though and there are dangers. (1) SAMHYEONGJE comes in following consecutive 2nd places and while apprentice jockey Jung Do Yun is yet to ride his first winner, it could come here. He’ll be on speed early too. (6) ISIDAE YEONGGWANG and (7) DON’T STOP are both more experienced and both have recent 2nd places to their names and can repeat while (11) MISWICK MYEONGUN is two starts into a comeback following a lengthy absence and can build on a much improved 3rd place last start.

Selections (9) Gasok Ace (1) Samhyeongje (6) Isidae Yeonggwang (11) Miswick Myeongun
Next Best 7, 8, 10, 12
Outsiders 2, 3, 4, 5
Fast Starters 1, 8, 9

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:10 

(7) FERNANDO has been close on a number of occasions and back from three months off during which time he was gelded, is one of a number who can win this modest contest. Similarly (9) BAROGA has shown potential in this type of company before and can be close for an in-form stable. (1) GREAT PEARL is generally badly behaved but is quick and if jockey Seol Dong Bok can channel her energy in the correct direction, she has a chance; she will be on the early speed. (2) SEUNGNI JEONGSEONG was a much improved 4th last time out while (5) IGIPPEUM GEUDAERO is unlikely to get a maiden win on her 35th start but can compete for the placings.

Selections (7) Fernando  (9) Baroga (1) Great Pearl (2) Seungni Jeongseong
Next Best 5, 10, 8
Outsiders 3, 4, 6, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3

Busan Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 

The last of the maiden races and (8) DANCING STAR, who led for much of her last start in a similar all-filly race on August 12th only to be comprehensively beaten by a good winner in the final furlong, looks to be the one to beat here. (10) DESTINY enters following a solid 3rd place (beating Baroga, who we saw in race 3) and should be competitive here too. (6) DORAON GASOKDO struggled in that same race but gets another chance here. (3) LOOK AT ME and (9) NANDANALA look best of the rest.

Selections (8) Dancing Star (10) Destiny (6) Doraon Gasokdo (9) Nandanala
Next Best 3, 11, 2
Outsiders 1, 4, 5, 7
Fast Starters 1, 2, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:40 

(6) DONGBANG BULPAE was just beaten a nose by a long-shot last start on July 22nd. That was his second attempt at this level and he is favoured to go one better here and is likely to try to lead from the gate. (5) SUPER SWEET won on debut back in April and showed he too is getting to grips with this class following a solid 2nd place just two weeks ago while (3) MINIME comes in following back to back 3rd place finishes which she should be looking to at least match here. (9) BONGHWANGUI KKUM and the up in class (10) GEOWIUI KKUM, the latter of whom beat a number of horses who we have seen earlier today, are the others to consider.

Selections (6) Dongbang Bulpae (5) Super Sweet (10) Geowiui Kkum (9) Bonghwangui Kkum
Next Best 3, 1, 4
Outsiders 2, 7, 6, 78
Fast Starters  

Busan Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:25 

Competitive race this. (7) SUPER BLADE looks the likely favourite having been narrowly defeated at class and distance on August 12th after leading until close to home. (3) PANGPANG LEGEND, a prolific placer and (4) SUPERNOVA IJI, a strong 3rd in a good race for this level on August 7th, will also be well backed. (8) DAESTAR and (5) JEOKDOUI HWASIN are up in class having finished 1st and 2nd on the former’s debut on August 7th. Both will need to find a bit more here but can’t be completely ruled out. (9) SHARP QUEENS was an easy winner of an all-filly race three weeks ago and up in class, will also need to find more today.

Selections (7) Super Blade (4) Supernova Iji (8) Daestar (9) Sharp Queens
Next Best 3, 5, 1, 2, 6
Fast Starters 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:05 

Thomas Gillespie’s (9) JUNGANG YEOJE suffered a surprise defeat at the hands of a dark-horse debut-maker on August 7th but should have enough to get back to winning ways here. She’ll be on the early pace along with (1) DIVINE TOUCH, who showed promise with a 2nd place on what was just his second start three weeks ago. (5) GOLDEN QUEEN was 4th behind Jungang Yeoje last time and can get close once more with (7) JEONSEOLUI SIJAK and (3) WIRYEOKGIMA also having potential to improve.

Selections (9) Jungang Yeoje (1) Divine Touch (5) Golden Queen (3) Wiryeokgima
Next Best 7, 11, 6, 4, 10
Outsiders 2, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 9

Busan Race 8: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:45 

(6) SONATA ZONE recorded a really good win, closing late to score by a nose in a decent race at this class over 1400M last month. She’ll need respect here too but we’ll go for the up in class (7) CAPITAL GANGJA to get the job done today after a pair of 2nd places in good company at class 5. She’ll be on pace early whereas Sonata Zone is likely to try to do it the hard way again today and may run out of track this time. (3) VALKYRIE has finished no worse than 3rd in each of her last four outings and can extend that run today while Bart Rice’s (8) KKEUTPAN BOOSTER is up in class and should be competitive.

Selections (7) Capital Gangja (6) Sonata Zone (3) Valkyrie (8) Kkeutpan Booster
Next Best 5, 9
Outsiders 1, 2, 4
Fast Starters 3, 7

Busan Race 9: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 19:35 

(8) STEALTH’s last three races have been the three legs of the Triple Crown. He finished 3rd, 3rd & 5th in them respectively. Back in this company and at this distance, he has to be strongly favoured to return to winning ways. (7) YUSEONG TIGER was 2nd in Busan’s Oaks Trial in March although she didn’t run in the filly Classic itself, instead struggling against older fillies and mares in July’s KNN Cup. She is another who will be much happier dropped back in trip and should be competitive. (3) STEAL THE SHOW WHY did make it to the Oaks. She was 6th of 9 and has won since. She is likely to get a comfortable early lead here. (Among the older contenders here, (6) SANGSEUNG JUNIOR and the up in class pair of (5) BIO BLUE and (9) PRIVATE DANCER look capable of going well.

Selections (8) Stealth (7) Yuseong Tiger (3) Steal The Show Why (6) Sangseung Junior
Next Best 9, 5, 1, 10, 2
Outsiders 4
Fast Starters 3

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 28)

Trials at both Seoul & Busan for October’s Jeju Governor’s Cup are the main events at both tracks today. Big firleds at Seoul, slightly smaller in Busan but plenty of action nonetheless Seoul has 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00 and Busan 6 from 13:00 to 17:00.

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Vision 127 – so called because it’s 127 metres long, was switched on at Seoul yesterday. It is supposedly the largest of its type in the world

English race cards are here. Notes on selected races below:

Busan Race 1

Selections (2) Impassioned Marine (4) Major Winner (5) Amazing Daeji (6) Choegang Monster
Next Best 7, 1, 3
Outsiders  
Fast Starters 4, 5

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13.35

(3) MIRACLE TO YOU and (6) YEONDARA are both up in class following maiden wins last start and while the former has a good chance of following up here it may be that at the 16th time of asking, (1) SEMYEONG LIGHT finally makes the breakthrough here. She was a good 2nd in a decent event a month ago and can come from off the pace here. (2) MISUJAE and (4) YEOUI KING should go close while another long-time maiden (8) JOEUN DAY also looks n with a shout of the placings.

Selections (1) Semyeong Light (3) Miracle To You (4) Yeoui King (2) Misujae
Next Best 8, 6, 7, 5
Outsiders 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 13.45

(4) JANTEUGAREU has won three of five so far and is banker favourite here to provide apprentice jockey Jung Do Yun with his first race victory. He should get an easy lead and make all. The others are up against it but (2) MAHURU and (7) TAEGWON CHAMP are always competitive and can run the favourite close, with (1) YEONGGWANGUICHUBOK and (6) PARTYINTHEDESERT other contenders to place.

Selections (4) Janteugareu (2) Mahuru (7) Taegwon Champ (6) Partyinthedesert
Next Best 1, 3
Outsiders 5, 8
Fast Starters 4

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:10 

We’ve had (7) DIDORPHIN on top plenty of times before and he’s let us down but after four 2nd places, we have to make him top choice once more to finally score. There’s not a huge amount of pace here and the race can set up nicely for him. (3) NAREUMUI YEONGHON was 5thbehind Didorphin back in March and returned to action after four months off in July with a solid 3rd place at class and distance and should be looking to better that today. (5) BOM DON I is highest rated and is already a winner at class and distance while (6) HWANHUIUISUNGAN and (10) MINSON also look set to be competitive.

Selections (7) Didorphin (3) Nareumui Yeonghon (5) Bom Dong I (10) Minson
Next Best 6, 11, 1, 2
Outsiders 4, 8, 9
Fast Starters 4

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:30 

(7) RUN STAR made all to pull off a surprisingly comprehensive victory over class and distance on July 24th. An apprentice jockey keeps the weight down nicely here and he must be respected. He may not be favourite though. Both (4) USEUNG CHEONJI and (6) BAEKDU YEONGUNG are capable performers at this level and the latter in particular, following two 2nd places at this distance, beaten by decent ones both times, looks ready to win. (3) MAYA COUNTRY was 7th behind Run Star last start and can get closer today while Thomas Gillespie’s (5) MUJEOK SINHWA can also improve on recent efforts.

Selections (6) Baekdu Yeongung (7) Run Star (4) Useung Cheonji (3) Maya Country
Next Best 5, 8, 2, 1
Fast Starters 5, 7

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 

Big competitive field here but (2) JINDALLAE, whose one prior start was all the way back last October, gets the nod based on an impressive – and very quick – performance in a recent trial. The only prior winner in the field, (7) HAPPY TODAY was slightly disappointing dead-heating for 5th last time out but gets another chance here in softer company while (8) JEOLDAE BYEONGGI has been getting closer in two recent outings at 1000M and will be on the speed early. (4) TOTAL WALKER will also be a fast starter and can stay on to dispute the places with (10) LEGEND KING and (14) LOST IN DRAMA looking best of the rest.

Selections (2) Jindallae (7) Happy Today (14) Lost In Drama (4) Total Walker
Next Best 8, 10, 3, 6, 12, 5
Outsiders 1, 9, 11, 13
Fast Starters 2, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 4

Selections (6) Blue Storm (10) Haneolui Jilju (7) Baramui Jeonseol (8) Pokpung Sinhwa
Next Best 11, 1, 2, 9
Outsiders 3, 4, 5
Fast Starters 3, 6, 9

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:45

(1) SAMBA FESTIVAL has won three from nine and while yet to strike at this class, she wasn’t far off in an all-filly event at this distance last month. Expect her to lead here from gate 1 and once there she may be difficult to dislodge. (2) FLY WING is up in class and back in trip following a six-length victory over 1700M and with the stable on top form now, looks dangerous again. (6) SARYEONI KING disappointed on his first try at this level last start but can be given another chance here while the up in class pair of (7) JEONGSANGUI BIT and (10) RAIN SKY look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Samba Festival (2) Fly Wing (6) Saryeoni King (10) Rain Sky
Next Best 7, 9, 4, 8
Outsiders 3, 5, 11
Fast Starters 1, 6

Busan Race 5: Class Open / 1400M / Allowance / KRW 150 Million / 16:10

Fillies and mares only in this trial for a Group race at Seoul at the beginning of October. (3) HOSEUNGJIBYEOK was 3rd in the Korean Oaks in June but is more suited to races around just the one turn and she’s the pick here having struck by almost three lengths at this distance a month ago. Main danger is another three-year-old. (6) SPECIAL ROOKIE was an eye-catching thirteen-length winner over 1200M three weeks ago. She was 4th in the Oaks and there looks to be plenty more to come from here. 5th in the Oaks was (7) SANTA GLORIA. She returned to action last month and smashed the track record for 1300M when winning by eight lengths. Different conditions today but she will be competitive. While the three-year-olds look to have the edge here, (1) HWANGGEUMBITJIJUNG and (2) JIBONG SARANG can be considered.

Selections (3) Hoseungjibyeok (6) Special Rookie (7) Santa Gloria (2) Jibong Sarang
Next Best 1, 8, 5, 4
Fast Starters 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 9: Class Open / 1400M / Allowance / KRW 200 Million / 15:35 

Seoul’s trial for the same Group race. (2) CHANG SE was a very good winner over this distance at the end of last month, her second consecutive dominant win and she could very well make all here. (7) MENI MONEY looks to be finally living up to her early potential. She beat a couple of these last start when an impressive class 2 winner at this distance and is the main danger here. Those two look superior to the rest although (4) QUEEN CREEK CAT will be on speed early and can keep her run of recent good form going. (5) SMART TIME was beaten by Meni Money at 1800M in June but is a proven performer in tougher company than this while (10) SINGGEUREOUNBOM beat Chang Se back in May and comes in here in good form.

Selections (2) Chang Se (7) Meni Money (4) Queen Creek Cat (5) Smart Time
Next Best 10, 9, 3
Outsiders 1, 6, 8
Fast Starters 2, 4

Busan Race 6 / Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 17:00 

(10) BIT BLADE has won seven of eight in an interrupted career so far and having beaten three of these when winning at this distance by a neck at the end of June, breaking from gate 10 that day too, he is favoured to prevail once more. It won’t be easy though. (7) JIBONG SEUNGNI got within five lengths of Rock Band over 1800M last month, has a 4.5kg weight advantage and will come from just off the pace here. A solid class and distance winner in June, he has every chance. Those two will be the market leaders although (1) CHOEGANG PLUS can be respected having beaten four of these when unexpectedly winning at class and distance last month. (3) QUEEN TWO HEARTS and (5) PUREUN ACE were among those beaten that day but will be favoured to go better here.

Selections (10) Bit Blade (7) Jibong Seungni (5) Pureun Ace (3) Queen Two Hearts
Next Best 1, 8, 4
Outsiders 2, 6, 9
Fast Starters 3, 10

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 17:30 

(1) GUY START has just the one win from 29 outings but could be on for a second having gone well in recent outings. Top weight is an issue though and the up in class and distance (4) DAEBOBAE could be the one to take advantage. A solid winner of an all-filly event over 1300M on July 23rd, she looks very nicely in here. As does (5) IGWANGSASEOK who is up in class but was a winner at this distance on July 31st. He made all that day but may be content to let others lead here. (3) CHARISMA QUEEN and (7) LITTLE BROWN look best of the rest.

Selections (4) Daebobae (5) Igwangsaseok (1) Guy Start (3) Charisma Queen
Next Best 7, 6
Outsiders 2, 8
Fast Starters 2, 4, 7

Seoul Race 11: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 18:00 

Big competitive class 1 handicap to finish with. (2) SILVER WOLF was a very good 3rd in the KNN Cup at Busan last month and as one of a number carrying light weights, looks very nicely in here to return to the winner’s circle for the first time since one day under a year ago. (1) HALLA CHUKJE hasn’t raced since a similarly impressive 2nd in the Ttukseom Cup in early June and will join Silver Wolf in racing prominently early on. She is a threat. (13) SAMJEONG JEGUK is better than his four wins from seventeen suggest and can be considered. (8) GUMANSEOK returned to form with a 2nd place over 2000M last month just a neck in front of (12) SPACE PORT and the latter will have backers here.

Selections (2) Silver Wolf (1) Halla Chukje (13) Samjeong Jeguk (12) Space Port
Next Best 8, 3, 4, 5, 7
Outsiders 6, 9, 10, 11
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 11

Seoul & Busan Sunday Preview (August 21)

Updated accepted nominations of overseas-trained horses for September’s Keeneland Korea Cup & Sprint have been posted on the KRA’s English language homepage here. After the sad passing of Franklin D, another horse from the UK, Solar Deity, is set to make the trip. There are also alterations to horses from Japan and the UAE. Today in Korea, there are 11 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 13:00 to 17:00.

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Seoul Racecourse has really changed…A “Baskin Robbins”: outlet opened in the grandstand this weekend

English racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races (overseas simulcast) are below:

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(9) SPIRIT OF HANSEN led until just before the very end of his debut race on July 10th and he’s the pick to hold on this time at the same distance. Chasing him down will be (1) ACE RUNNER, a creditable 3rd on his own debut last month and a decent prospect himself. Korean-bred (13) SEUNGNI ANGEL, winner of her last two in the domestic ranks, takes her chance against perceived weaker imports here and should go well although she likes to be prominent early and will have to work hard from gate 13. (10) DALLYEORA BEONGAE, 4th to Seungni Angel last time, can match or better that here. A note too for debut-maker (2) COMPETIR, a rare NZ bred in Korea by Mr. Nancho, looked quick in her trial.

Selections (9) Spirit Of Hansen (13) Seungni Angel (1) Ace Runner (2) Competir
Next Best 10, 7, 11, 14, 5, 6
Outsiders 3, 4, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3, 4, 7, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:45 (KST)

(9) JERAJIN got her maiden win at the third time of asking last start and while up in class here, has claims to follow-up right away in this all-filly affair. She may not be favourite though. That should be (7) TEXAS RUSH who, while yet to win in seven outings, comes in following three consecutive 2nd place finishes, last time at class and distance and she’ll be well backed to make the breakthrough here. Having won on debut, (5) CHALLAUI JUIN was very disappointing when favourite on her reappearance last month but gets another chance here while (2) MAKGANG JILJU and (3) WINNING GILI, the latter 3rd behind Texas Rush last time, should be competing for places.

Selections (7) Texas Rush (9) Jerajin (5) Challaui Juin (2) Makgang Jilju
Next Best 3, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 6
Fast Starters 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:10 (KST)

No fewer than eight of these are up in class for here, six of them following wins last start. Among them, we’ll go for (11) JANGSAN CITY, three length winner of a decent race in June, ahead of (7) KING AHEAD, to follow up. (14) INTO THE WILD prevailed by an eye-catching eight lengths at this distance on July 16th and needs to be considered while (13) CHEONJI SEONGGONG was promoted without a class 5 win but still looks competitive at this level. Of those with prior class 4 experience, Brian Dean’s (8) CHEONGCHUN YEOLCHA, a winner at this class three weeks ago is the pick ahead of (1) TOKTOK YEOJANGGUN.

Selections (11) Jangsan City (8) Cheongchun Yeolcha (14) Into The Wild (13) Cheonji Seonggong
Next Best 1, 5, 6, 7, 3, 4, 12
Outsiders 2, 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 10, 12, 14

Busan Race 3: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 (KST)

Banker favourite of the day here as (1) EUROPA, two for two so far steps up in class but should have little difficulty in handling this filed. A gate to wire win seems most likely. The two others up in class, (5) JANGGUNEUI HUYE and (6) GIGA SPEED, both looking for winning hat-tricks of their own, look best placed to stop him with (2) FIRST KING and (3) CLEAN CHOEGANG set to compete for the minor money.

Selections (1) Europa (6) Giga Speed (5) Jangguneui Huye (2) First King
Next Best 3, 4, 8
Outsiders 7, 9
Fast Starters 1, 5

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 (KST)

(3) SOKBO WANGJA defeated (11) RAON ROUIS by a length as the pair ran 1st and 2nd at class and distance on July 24th and they will be the market leaders. Sokbo Wangja’s victory that day was unexpected and the tables may well be turned today. It’s no two-horse race though, (6) SUN MASTER comes in following back to back 2nd places at class 5 and while up a level here, will be competitive with (1) STAR BONNY BEE and (5) DOLJIN among others with claims. (12) MONGGEULMONGGEUL, winner of two from four returns up in class from a couple of months off and can go well too. There will be quite a dash for the first corner with lots of these wanting to be on the early speed.

Selections (11) Raon Rouis (3) Sokbo Wangja (6) Sun Master (5) Doljin
Next Best 12, 1, 9, 8, 9, 10
Outsiders 2, 4, 7, 13
Fast Starters 2, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45 (KST)

(6) SUN ROK should get back to winning ways here following a surprisingly comprehensive reverse at the hands of Suseong Captain on a muddy track last month. He will lead here and this time can make all. (2) RAON BOLAVEN, also rather disappointing last time out, looks to be the main danger although the experienced (4) CARDIFF HWANHUI unexpectedly returned to form with a 3rd place over this distance on July 24th and must be respected a little more today. (3) GRAND CAMP and (7) VALLEY STAR are others who can improve.

Selections (6) Sun Rok (2) Roan Bolaven (4) Cardiff Hwanhui  (7) Valley Star
Next Best 3
Outsiders 1, 5, 8
Fast Starters 3, 6