Racing Previews

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 20)

Big fields are back at Seoul on Saturday with no fewer than 142 horses spread across today’s 12 races. First race is 2pm, last at 9pm.

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

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

(6) OJEI MYEONGDANG beat two of these on debut when running 2nd last month in a quick race at class and distance and is very much the one to beat here. Those two, (8) SUNKISSED and (10) ARGO AWESOME were 3rd and 5th respectively and both should also look to make progress today. (11) ROYAL PARK was 4th on her own debut last month and also looks to have potential. Among the debut makers, (4) CLEAN UP SKY and (9) MIDEUMUI BIT impressed in trials with the former likely to be well supported here.

Selections (6) Ojei Myeongdang (4) Clean Up Sky (8) Sunkissed (9) Mideumui Bit
Next Best 11, 10, 7, 3
Outsiders 1, 2, 5
Fast Starters 5, 6, 11

Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 (KST)

(10) LION WINNER comes in following a 2nd place at this distance having finished very strongly. She’s been getting closer and closer and while it won’t be easy to come from off the pace, this her best chance yet to get her maiden win. Main danger is (5) BOUNDING PARK. She disappointed when favourite in an all-filly race three weeks ago – her first try at this distance. She was slowly away and used up plenty of energy getting into a good position before fading and can be given another chance today. (3) WON AGAIN should be trying to go better than “fourth again” while (1) PUREUN SEDAE and (7) FIRE BALL look capable of the money. The sole debut-maker is (11) GOOD HEART. She took four attempts to qualify but looked good finally doing it at the end of July and she may be considered first up

Selections (10) Lion Winner (5) Bounding Park (1) Pureun Sedae (3) Won Again
Next Best 11, 7, 2, 4
Outsiders 6, 8, 9
Fast Starters 3, 4, 7

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:30 (KST)

(7) DREAM SLEW, 3rd on debut and then 2nd on his reappearance a month ago, will be strong favourite to go one better this time. He’ll likely settle behind the early pace and should have too much in the closing stages. The rest look distinctly average so the danger may well end up being the only debut-maker (4) SAGYEJEOL. She was very quick in a trial (albeit on a fast running track) at the end of July and if she can translate that form to the races, should go well. (6) MIGHTY MAMBO has shown glimpses in three outings to date while (1) STAR GOLDEN and (2) COUNT DOWN also look to have potential for improvement.

Selections (7) Dream Slew (4) Sagyejeol (6) Mighty Mambo (1) Star Golden
Next Best 2, 9, 11, 12
Outsiders 3, 5, 8, 10
Fast Starters 4, 11

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 16:20 (KST)

The last of the maiden races and a competitive one it is too. It’s just for fillies and (8) MINT is the slight top pick having been 3rd in a similar race last month when she led close to home. She could give apprentice jockey Lee Chel Gyung his first winner. 5th in that race last month was (3) MIRACLE GARDEN. She already has a 2nd place to her name at this distance and should be close by once more. (5) MENI VET is more experienced and enters following a 3rd place at this distance having led almost the whole way round last month. She will lead again here. Among the rest, (11) POKPUNG JEONYA has improved in each of three starts so far and the step up in trip may be beneficial with (9) DARK AMBER looking best of the rest.

Selections (8) Mint (5) Meni Vet (11) Pokpung Jeonya (3) Miracle Garden
Next Best 9, 6, 10
Outsiders 1, 2, 4, 7,
Fast Starters 3, 5 8

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:10 (KST)

Up in class following his maiden win on July 23rd, (6) DAEGI SOKDO is favoured to follow up here. He made all to win by six-lengths that day and will look to lead right from the gate here too. (4) SAETBYEORI will be on speed with him and looks most likely to run him close although the stable is not in form at the moment. (7) HANIL ENSEMBLE drops back in distance following a pair of 4th place finishes at 1300M and should be competitive. (2) VINCERO S is another who may welcome the drop back in trip as should (10) CURRICLE, yet to win in 17, but worthy of another chance here after some decent efforts at much further.

Selections (6) Daegi Sokdo (7) Hanil Ensemble (4) Saetbyeori (10) Curricle
Next Best 2, 8, 1, 3
Outsiders 5, 9, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 4, 6

Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 17:50 (KST)

Big field here and (3) DEOKSAMHO is favoured, as Korean-breds who have won their way up to class 4 often are over the imported horses who have no option but to begin their career at this level. She’s won three of six so far, made all over this distance on July 10th and will look for similar today. Another Korean bred, (8) YEONGGWANGUIGEUNAL beat (4) SMART JOE and set a track record for this distance in the process last month. The conditions are likely to be different today and he carries 5kg more but he needs respect. Smart Joe too can be competitive. (2) BEONGAE FIGHTER has been steadily improving, culminating in a 2nd place on his first try at this distance last month and given a decent start, can match or even better today. Likewise (6) SEONJE ILGYEOK comes in following back to back 2nd place finishes and will be aiming to at least match them here.

Selections (3) Deoksamho (8) Yeonggwanguigeunal (2) Beongae Fighter (4) Smart Joe
Next Best 6, 7, 12, 11, 5, 9
Outsiders 1, 10, 13, 14
Fast Starters 3, 5, 8, 11,

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

Another competitive race and (8) JANGSAN ROCKY beat both (7) SONOGONG and (1) DANGCHANBISANG on a wet track at class and distance three weeks ago. Jangsan Rocky can make the breakthrough here but Dangchanbisang should also perform much better. (2) DUAL POKPUNG struggled in a decent event at 1400M last start but comes following two months off and gets another chance here. (11) EVER A ONE and (12) BEAUTIFUL DON are both winless yet both find themselves up in class following a few too many near-misses at class 6. They’ll find it challenging to make the breakthrough here but should still be competitive in terms of potential for money finishes. Up in class following a win, the modestly named (5) BORN WINNER, also has claims.

Selections (8) Jangsan Rocky (1) Dangchanbisang (5) Born Winner (2) Dual Pokpung
Next Best 11, 12, 14, 7, 13, 3
Outsiders 4, 6, 9, 10,
Fast Starters 4, 8, 14

Busan Friday: Race By Race Preview (August 12)

Just Seoul and Busan this weekend as the Jeju Ponies take their summer vacation and that means its another lond card on the south coast on Friday with no less than 14 races from 14:30 to 21:00.

On Sunday, the feature race race at Busan will be the Owners’ Cup. Korea Cup Day possibles Triple Nine, Rock Band and Success Story are all set to run over a mile in what looks a very solid race. We’ll have a full preview of that on Saturday. In the meantime, English cards are here. Brief notes on races 1-11 below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 13:30 (SIN)

Nine debut makers here and fastest in trials was (8) DAREUMBAKJIL which should be enough to make her favourite. Among others who looked competent in the morning were (5) RACHEL and (6) SILLAUI DALBAM, both of whom have top jockey bookings and should go well. Slightly less eye-catching but worth considering are (2) PARTY AGAIN and (7) KING ICE.

Selections (8) Dareumbakjil (5) Rachel (6) Sillaui Dalbam (2) Party Again
Next Best 7, 3, 9, 1, 4
Fast Starters 4, 6, 8

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:55 (SIN)

(6) NAMYANG TOWER finally gets a chance to go further than 1000M and it could well be what she needs against very modest company here. Main danger is (10) JUNGANG YOJEONG who’s shown promise in two prior starts and comes in fresh following eleven weeks out. (4) CHASEDAE has been coming closer in recent starts and should look to place again while (1) SAEROUN NA and (5) AQUA QUEEN look best of the rest.

Selections (6) Namyang Tower (10) Jungang Yojeong (4) Chasedae (5) Aqua Queen
Next Best 1, 11, 8, 7
Outsiders 2, 3, 9
Fast Starters 3, 6, 7

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 14:20 (SIN)

Apprentice jockey Jung Do Yun will ride his first career winner if he can guide (2) DANCING STAR to victory in this all-filly race. She beat (5) SHARP QUEENS as the pair raced 3rd and 4th over 1000M last month and is the one to beat here. Look for her to try to make all. Bart Rice’s (6) LISA was a decent 4th when unfancied on debut a month ago and can progress further here while (4) SOLYEONJISE and the more experienced (8) PALMYRA have also shown glimpses of ability.

Selections (2) Dancing Star (6) Lisa (5) Sharp Queens (4) Solyeonjise
Next Best 8, 3, 1, 7
Fast Starters 2, 8

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 14:45 (SIN)

Small field with two standouts. (1) TOP OF QUEEN debuted inauspiciously in January and then didn’t return until last month when she dead-heated for 3rd at 1200M. The extra half furlong may suit here. The other top pick is (5) GAMSEONG POKBAL who has a best of 2nd among five prior outings and should also welcome this distance. (2) GOYOHAN JILJU is yet to win in 23 but comes in following back to back 4th place finishes and should place here while (4) ROAD TO SUCCESS is the best of a limited rest.

Selections (1) Top Of Queen (5) Gamseong Pokbal (2) Goyohan Jilju (4) Road To Success
Next Best 6, 7, 3
Fast Starters 4

Race 5: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:10 (SIN)

Aussie import (1) POKPUNGUI JEWANG is one of just two prior winners in this field and underneath the inform Yonekura Satoshi, he’s the pick to win again. His main rival could be another from Australia with (7) BARAMUI HEUNJEOK, a 3-year-old gelding by Equiano, making his debut having shown plenty of potential in a trial last month. Also looking good in a July trial was (9) SINSEGYE SINHWA, who returns from almost four months out to take on the minimum distance for the first time in over a year. Kim Young Kwan’s (4) DIVINE TOUCH will surely improve from his debut while (2) MARION COUNTY did improve to 3rd last start and can keep it going here.

Selections(1) Pokpungui Jewang (4) Divine Touch (7) Baramui Heunjeok (9) Sinsegye Sinhwa
Next Best 2, 6, 10
Outsiders 3, 5, 8
Fast Starters 2, 3, 6, 7

Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:40 (SIN)

With two wins from seven and a 2nd place at domestic class 4 last start, (1) TURBO ENERGY looks very nicely in here against modest imported opposition and should have too much with a gate to wire victory the most likely outcome. Another Korean-bred, (7) LADY CHAMP should also be in with a chance while among the imports, (2) MAERYEOK DEONGEORI, (3) GYERIMUI JILJU and, especially, (6) QUEEN ELEGANCE are best.

Selections (1) Turbo Energy (6) Queen Elegance (7) Lady Champ (2) Maeryeok Deongeori
Next Best 3, 8, 4, 5
Fast Starters 1

Race 7: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:10 (SIN)

(1) FIRST SUN got her maiden win at the second time of asking on July 15th and while up in class and also slightly in distance, she can win again. Expect here to try to come from just behind the early pace. That pace could well be set by (7) BOUND QUEENS, beaten by First Sun on both their debuts in June but a 12-length winner on her reappearance last month and she could go all the way again. Completing a trio of up in class following maiden wins on their second starts is (6) SMART LADY. She’ll be on pace early as well and must be considered. Among those who already have experience at this level, (3) CAPE MAGIC and (8) FOUR STAR look most likely.

Selections (7) Bound Queens (1) First Sun (6) Smart Lady (3) Cape Magic
Next Best 8, 2, 11, 5, 4
Outsiders 9, 10, 12
Fast Starters 4, 6, 7

Race 8: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:40 (SIN)

Large field and really competitive with many having claims. (2) OH MY CAPTAIN beat (3) SUPER BLADE as the pair raced 4th and 6th at class and distance last month. The latter especially will be expected to improve here. (9) BAEDARI HAENGUN is yet to win in twelve but enters following two 2nd places and a 3rd and drops slightly down in distance. She likes to come from well off the pace and the race could set up nicely for her. Similarly (11) DANGCHAN JILJU has come close in recent starts and could well have a win in him at this level. (1) SEUNGJEONPILSA and the up in class (5) TAEYANG GWANGSOK are others to consider in a wide open race.

Selections (3) Super Blade (9) Baedari Haengun (2) Oh My Captain (11) Dangchan Jilju
Next Best 5, 1, 6, 8, 4
Outsiders 7, 10, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3

Race 9: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:10 (SIN)

Barry Irwin’s (5) CHASTITY returned from five months off to get her maiden win over 1400M on July 15th and has every chance of following up here on her first try at a mile. (10) BAEKDU YEONGUNG, 2nd in a challenging race at class and distance a month ago is the clear main danger although (1) BAEDARI GOSU, winner of an all-filly event at 1300M on July 17th is also to be considered. She beat (6) GO JJANG by a nose that day and the latter should be competitive too. (4) THE STARS, 4th behind Chastity last start, looks best of the rest.

Selections (5) Chastity (10) Baekdu Yeongung (1) Baedari Gosu (6) Go Jjang
Next Best 4, 3
Outsiders 2, 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 3, 5

Race 10: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:50 (SIN)

An eight-length winner of a good 1400M race at class 5 at the end of June (6) SMART VALOR looks to have potential for much more and will be warm favourite to lead from gate to wire here. (1) FIVE VICTORS never travelled well and ended up last when well-backed in June but can be given another chance coming in fresh after 7 weeks off and should be the main danger. (4) GANGHAN NAMJA and (7) SAMIL STAR are others who should be challenging for the places.

Selections (6) Smart Valor (1) Five Victors (7) Samil Star (4) Ganghan Namja
Next Best 5, 2, 3, 8
Fast Starters 1, 3, 6

Race 11: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:30 (SIN)

After three consecutive 2nd place finishes, it’s time (1) ILMANGMUJE went one better and got back in the winner’s circle. She’ll look to lead all the way here. (7) HUIMANG QUEEN, winner of three from seven and quick when successful over 1000M last start is a big danger as is (6) VALKYRIE, who was 3rd on her first try at this class a month. Ago. Those three will be the market leaders with (2) WORLD QUICK the best of the rest.

Selections (1) Ilmangmuje (7) Huimang Queen (6) Valkyrie (2) World Quick
Next Best 5, 3, 4
Fast Starters 1, 7

Busan Sunday Notes (August 7)

No racing in Seoul this weekend so Sunday sees a Busan-only day. There are 15 races at the south coast track with the first at 10:50am and the last at 18:00.

English language racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races below:

Race 6: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:30 (KST)

(7) SUPER JJANGJJANGI made all to win comfortably on debut a month ago and while up in class today, should have too much for these. (9) YEONGTO DAEWANG, a much improved 3rd at this class last time should also be off to a fast start and can challenge while (4) V DIVA and (10) FOCUS LINE both return from a couple of months off and can go well here. Best of the rest is (8) JAYUROUN HWANHUI

Selections (7) Super Jjangjjangi (4) V Diva (10) Focus Line (9) Yeongto Daewang
Next Best 8, 3, 5, 2
Outsiders 1, 6, 11
Fast Starters 7, 8, 9

Race 7: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:00 (KST)

(4) MACHEON CHIRON is up in class and distance following a six-length win over 1000M on July 1st and can go on to win again here. She will look to make all as will (6) YUSEONGCHEOREOM, also up in class following victory on her debut in June, albeit slightly less impressively and in slightly weaker company. Yet to win, (2) HAEGA TTEUNDA is also up in class and can come close once more while of those with experience at this level, (10) BIHO JILJU, 2nd at this distance a month ago in decent company looks the best and will be away to a quick start. Trainer and jockey combination means that (8) HWANGJEUI TANSAENG, disappointing on his return from a spell two weeks ago, will be given another chance.

Selections (4) Macheon Chiron (6) Yuseongchereom (10) Biho Jilju (8) Hwangjeui Tansaeng
Next Best 2, 5, 9
Outsiders 1, 3, 7
Fast Starters 4, 6, 10

Race 8: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:30 (KST)

(8) SUPERNOVA IJI was a closely beaten 5th last start at class and distance but from gate 6 today can get to the front early under Yonekura Satoshi. If she can get forward, she can win this. Main danger – and possible favourite – is (8) CAPITAL GANGJA. She’s been getting closer at this level and was 2nd in a decent all-filly race a month ago. She’s beaten (3) AREUMDAUN YEOWANG in each of her last two but that filly has also been improving and is capable of finding the money at this level. (2) YEONGWON CHUKJE and (5) KWAESOK BOLT are also worth considering in what looks a nicely competitive race.

Selections (6) Supernova Iji (8) Capital Gangja (2) Yeongwon Chukje (3) Areumdaun Yeowang
Next Best 5, 1
Outsiders 4, 7, 9
Fast Starters 6

Race 9: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:00 (KST)

Another Bart Rice one on top here with (9) DAEHANUIMYEONGSUNG poised to return to the winner’s circle having come very close in each of her last four starts. She drops down just slightly in distance today and that could make the difference. Thomas Gillespie’s (6) GREAT SONG is yet to win in four but has been getting closer and looks to have a win in him at some stage at this level. He can go close once more although does have to deal with top weight. (12) MUJEOKUI SAMSON was an encouraging 4th when back from four months off on July 1st and can build on that today while both (4) WHITE CASTLE and (10) EOROK both have claims.

Selections (9) Daehanuimyeongsung (6) Great Song (12) Mujeokui Samson (10) Eorok
Next Best 4, 7, 1, 5
Outsiders 2, 3, 8, 11
Fast Starters 2, 12

Race 10: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:30 (KST)

(8) SPECIAL ROOKIE was 4th in the Oaks behind her stablemate Ottug Ottugi and returned to action last month to win over a mile. She drops down to a sprint distance today for her first try at class 4 and should have too much. She makes all here. (6) HWANHUIUI BYEOL, also a fast starter, is the main danger while the up in class (3) WORLD FLASH can be competitive. Always competitive is (7) FOR MY SIS and while (4) GANGJA DAERO is yet to win in 37 outings, he comes in following his sixth 2nd place and can aim for the money again today.

Selections (8) Special Rookie (6) Hwanhuiui Byeol (7) For My Sis (3) World Flash
Next Best 4, 11, 1
Outsiders 2, 5, 9, 10
Fast Starters 1, 3, 6, 8

Race 11: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:00 (KST)

Thomas Gillespie’s (7) JUNGANG YEOJE comes in following three straight wins and looks very nicely in here against this modest imported opposition. She should be looking at four-in-a-row, most likely making all. (5) TAEGWON CHAMP is yet to win in fourteen but enters in reasonable form and should be competitive, however, the main danger may be debut-maker (10) I’M YOUR FATHER, a $50,000 purchase as a yearling who looked good when trialling last month and has a top jockey on board. (3) DANCING CAT and (8) DAEHO GANGJA are best of the rest.

Selections (7) Jungang Yeoje (10) I’m Your Father (5) Taegwon Champ (3) Dancing Cat
Next Best 8, 4, 12, 1
Outsiders 2, 6, 9, 11
Fast Starters 3, 7, 11

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 31)

Just Seoul today and it’s full fields for almost all 15 races as the capital track prepares to take a break next week. There are 15 races from 10:50 to 18:00 with the feature being the Ilgan Sports Cup.

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

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

Competitive race and dropping back to 1000M following a couple of months off after a good 2nd place at 1200M is (6) ONGNYEOBONG and she has as good a chance as any here. She’ll be off to a fast start along with (5) GANGHO CHEONNYEON, who should build on his 5th from last time. (12) MASANG GWIJAE is yet to win in six outings but comes in after back to back 2md places and could make the breakthrough here despite the unfavourable draw. (1) CHOROK YEOLMAE and (8) BALGEUN NAEIL best of the rest.

Selections (6) Ongnyeobong (12) Masang Gwijae (5) Gangho Cheonnyeon (1) Chorok Yeolmae
Next Best 8, 7, 3, 9
Outsiders 2, 4, 10, 11
Fast Starters 2, 3, 4, 6

Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:30 (KST)

Just fillies here and another really competitive event. (3) MORNING SKY and (8) SEOUL QUEEN have both come close to adding to their solitary wins in recent starts and both will be expected to go well here. They will both look to come from just off a pace that could well be set by (1) CLEANUP SEED, beaten two lengths by Seoul Queen last start and who should look to get closer today. (10) CHERRY PICKER was another also-ran that day who can improve while (7) SILVERGRAY CAT is back up to this distance following a pair of decent results at 1000M.

Selections (3) Morning Sky (8) Seoul Queen (1) Cleanup Seed (10) Cherry Picker
Next Best 7, 4, 12, 6, 5
Outsiders 2, 9, 11
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 7

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:00 (SIN)

(1) DANGCHANBISANG beat (12) DIDORPHIN by just over two lengths as the pair raced 2nd and 4th over 1300M on June 26th. The latter has four 2nd places from nine outings but will be well backed once more to finally make a breakthrough. A big danger is class winner (11) BEST TAKER, who came very close to adding another victory in a narrow finish at 1400M last month. Those three should be market leaders although (4) BOM DONG I and (7) TWO KAY also have claims.

Selections (11) Best Taker (12) Didorphin (1) Dangchanbisang (7) Two Kay
Next Best 4, 9, 2, 5
Outsiders 3, 6, 8, 10
Fast Starters 2, 3, 7

Race 8: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:30 (KST)

With four wins from six so far, all of them at this distance and most recently at this class, (4) MIDAS ROAD is very much the one to beat here. He looks a talent at this minimum distance. Main danger is (7) GEUMA BALIOS, who drops back to 1000M for the first time since last year and looks an intriguing entry. (8) OUR CAT was 3rd to Midas Road last time and can match that here while (3) MUHANDOMA and (10) FORESTRY, the latter last in that race behind Midas Road, needing what was his first start of the year, the others with scope for improvement.

Selections (4) Midas Road (7) Geuma Balios (8) Our Cat (3) Muhandoma
Next Best 6, 10, 12, 9
Outsiders 1, 2, 5, 11
Fast Starters 3, 4, 6

Race 9: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:00 (KST)

A long-shot winner over 1000M on June 26th, absolutely flying home from off the pace, (10) CHUGJE HANMADANG requires more respect today and has every chance of making in two in a row. (6) CITY WOLF is yet to win in nine but has two 2nd place finishes from his last three and should set the pace here. (5) FINE TODAY looks capable in this company with (3) PRO MATHEUS looking best of the rest.

Selections (10) Chugje Hanmadang (6) City Wolf (5) Fine Today (3) Pro Matheus
Next Best 2, 9, 1, 11
Outsiders 4, 7, 8, 12
Fast Starters 2, 6
Race 10: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:30 (KST)

(9) HOMERUN MAKER won her first two all the way back around the turn of 2014/2015. Since retuning in March this year she’s been 2nd in three of four starts and looks poised to return to the winner’s circle here. If it is to be another 2nd for Homerun Maker then (6) SWEEP TROPHY looks the one to take advantage. He comes in following solid placings in his last two and he should go well in this company. (2) YONGCHONG is up in class following a good win at this distance in June and can be considered as can (5) PRIME GOLD and (7) CHEONGCHUN YEOLCHA.

Selections (9) Homerun Maker (6) Sweep Trophy (2) Yongchong (5) Prime Gold
Next Best 7, 11, 3, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 10, 12
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 4

Race 11: Class 4 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:00 (KST)

Another very competitive race to conclude and (2) SPECIAL RUNNER, up in class following victory at 1400M on June 25th can be considered for an immediate impact at this level. It won’t be easy. (4) TOTAL WALKER and runner-up specialist (6) IGWANGSASEOK have strong claims too with both proven money winner at this level even if they have just one win between them prior to today. (3) WHIZ BROWN and (5) JWACHEONGNYONG are others who can go close.

Selections (2) Special Runner (4) Total Walker (6) Igwangsaseok (3) Whiz Brown
Next Best 5, 11, 12, 7
Outsiders 1, 8, 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 11

KNN Cup Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (July 24)

Sunday sees the 2nd leg of the 2016 Queens Tour and a strong challenge has headed south from Seoul to Busan for the KNN Cup, which will be run over a mile. Also, three Korea-trained horses are in Singapore for this afternoon’s KRA Trophy at Kranji Racecourse.

img_20160722_130847.jpg

For the first time ever in Korea, a “contest” – not actual betting which remains illegal – will be offered on an overseas race, the KRA Trophy in Singapore

Of those three, it is Busan-based Triple Five that looks to have the most chance of making an impact in what looks a tough race over 1200M. The race will be beamed back live to Korea where punters are being offered a free to enter betting “event”. Plenty going on at home though and English racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races at Seoul and Busan, including the KNN Cup below:

Busan Race 1: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

A comfortable winner on debut over 1000M last month, (3) ICE MARINE steps up in class and is favourite to land this all-filly contest. She should be on speed early and can lead all the way. (8) HWANGGEUM GEOTAP beat (6) TEXAS RUSH and (9) WINNING GILI at 1300M on Jun 24th. All three are accordingly up in class today and Hwanggeum Geotap is favoured to be most suited to this level and looks a danger again. Among those with experience of this class, (7) CHALLANHAN ACE and (10) VICAR HOPE, the latter of whom struggled in wet conditions last start, look the best while front-runner (1) LION PARK can’t be discounted either.

Selections (3) Ice Marine (8) Hwanggeum Geotap (10) Vicar Hope (7) Challanhan Ace
Next Best 6, 1, 2, 4
Outsiders 5, 9, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

A winner on debut, Brian Dean’s (3) JUNGL DRUMMER couldn’t follow up when favourite for his first try at this class on June 25th, finishing 4th. Since then, he’s gone back to trial – which he won – and he should be given another chance here. (8) DOLCE VITA beat (1) MINSON as they finished 2nd and 3rd respectively at class and distance in June. Minson is slightly favoured here. (4) GEUMTAEPUNG and (10) YAHO GIANT look best of the rest.

Selections (3) Jungl Drummer (1) Minson (8) Dolce Vita (10) Yaho Giant
Next Best 4, 7
Outsiders 2, 5, 6, 9
Fast Starters 3, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 13:50 (KST)

Thomas Gillespie’s (1) HANEOLUI JILJU was the easy winner of a weak race at class and distance on July 3rd and should really have too much against similar opposition today. (9) PRIVATE DANCER saw a run of three straight wins come to an end last time out but can be given another chance here while similarly (6) GABOGAPJJANG disappointed when favourite on his return from five months out last month but can go better today. (7) LET’S WIN is yet to, but has shown promise in two outings and looks ready to try this distance again. A $50,000 purchase and impressive in trials, (3) B.K PARK may be considered on debut.

Selections (1) Haneolui Jilju (9) Private Dancer (7) Let’s Win (6) Gabogapjjang
Next Best 3, 11, 10, 2
Outsiders 4, 5, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:40 (KST)

Competitive race this but despite being beaten into 4th when favourite last time we’ll make (2) DOCHI, who tries this distance for the first time, the slight favourite. He started badly last time but should be on the early speed here. (8) MAKGANG JILJU is also up in distance following a solid 3rd last start and can be considered. (3) NOBLE WARRIOR was a class and distance winner just two weeks ago and should go well again – he does carry an extra 3.5kg though. (1) YEONGUNG CHULGYEOK and (7) RUN STAR also look capable.

Selections (2) Dochi (3) Noble Warrior (8) Makgang Jilju (1) Yeongung Chulgyeok
Next Best 7, 11, 12, 6, 4
Outsiders 5, 9, 10
Fast Starters 2, 3

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:05 (KST)

Up in class following two consecutive wins, (7) GOLD MORNING looks very much the one to beat here. She should make all. (8) RAON ROUIS and (9) SSONSALGACHI are capable and should be competitive while (3) SHINE CLOVER and (6) BARWONJI can find at least the places. Two others up in class following wins are (5) S CLASS and (10) SOKBO WANGJA and both have a bit to find today.

Selections (7) Gold Morning (8) Raon Rouis (9) Ssonsalgachi (10) Sokbo Wangja
Next Best 3, 5, 6, 2
Outsiders 1, 4, 11
Fast Starters 3, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 3 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 15:30 (KST)

(6) TOP FIGHTER beat (1) GUMPO MIRACLE (and three others who go again here) by a full ten lengths at class and distance on June 26th. However, while Top Fighter may well end up being favourite, he carries an extra 5kg today and that may be enough to give Gumpo Miracle the edge. (7) BOHEMIAN was another of those beaten that day but can be given another chance here while (2) GOSOK JILJU and (8) MORNING GANGJA look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Gumpo Miracle (6) Top Fighter (7) Bohemian (2) Gosok Jilju
Next Best 8, 4
Outsiders 3, 5
Fast Starters 3, 7

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:55 (KST)

Small but very competitive field. (6) THEME DEUNGGEUK, an also ran in the Korean Derby, is up in class after a facile win at 1300M last month and looks an intriguing prospect here. He will have to deal with another intriguing prospect in the shape of (7) SEOMGWANGI, who tries this distance for the first time following a solid 2nd place at 1200M at this class a month ago. (4) SPACE SHUTTLE and (8) MUSOE are proven at the distance and will be dangerous while (3) INBEACTIVE looks best of the rest.

Selections (7) Seomgwangi (6) Theme Deunggeuk (8) Musoe (4) Space Shuttle
Next Best 3, 5
Outsiders 1, 2
Fast Starters 6, 7

Busan Race 5: Class Open – The KNN Cup (KOR G3) /1600M / Allowance (Fillies & Mares) / KRW 400 Million / 16:30 (KST)

The 2nd leg of the Queens’ Tour and many see this as a contest between the winner of the 1st leg (14) BICHUI JEONGSANG and (8) NEW YORK BLUE. The latter was 3rd in that race, the Ttukseom Cup and has home-track advantage this time. Bichui Jeongsang looks strong though and the wide gate shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Both look very competitive as does TJK Trophy winner (1) AREUMDAUNDONGHAENG who champion jockey Moon Se Young returned a week earlier than expected from injury in order to ride. Last year’s Oaks winner (4) JANGPUNG PARANG was 5th in the Ttukseom Cup and will be more suited to today’s distance. (13) MS. MARGAUX and (6) SILVER WOLF are among a number of others set to be dangerous.

Selections (14) Bichui Jeongsang (8) New York Blue (13) Ms. Margaux (1) Areumdaundonghaeng
Next Best 4, 6, 9, 15, 11, 5
Outsiders 2, 3, 7, 10, 12
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6, 11, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 17:00 (KST)

(8) CHANG SE is up in class following a smart win at 1200M a month ago. Back in March, she won the Sports Seoul Oaks Trial at this distance and it’s hard to see her getting beaten here. The experienced pair of (1) OSAENG MYEONGJANG and (9) CLEAN UP STAR can be competitive in this company while (4) GREY KAISER and (5) BLACK DIA are others to take into consideration.

Selections (8) Chang Se (9) Clean Up Star (1) Osaeng Myeongjang (4) Grey Kaiser
Next Best 5, 2, 7
Outsiders 3, 6
Fast Starters 4, 6, 8

Busan Race 6: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 17:30 (KST)

(1) READY WHEN YOU ARE was surprisingly beaten by Power Bullet last start at 1400M having led for most of the way, but coming in after seven weeks off and back at 1200M today, can reverse that form. (6) MORNING DAERO and (7) WORLD LOVE are capable at this class and can go close. (3) POKPUNG CHOEGANG has beaten plenty of these recently and while the new apprentice jockey may deter some, there’s no reason why he can’t perform well.

Selections (1) Ready When You Are (6) Morning Daero (3) Pokpung Choegang (7) World Love
Next Best 8, 4
Outsiders 2, 5
Fast Starters 1, 2, 5

Seoul Race 10: Class 1 / 2000M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 18:00 (KST)

Really competitive event to end with and while (3) SPACE PORT was overmatched in last month’s Busan Mayor’s Cup and is carrying 59kg today, he should still be very competitive. At the other end of the weight scale, (5) GOLDHOLIC looks beautifully in here and should have a chance. (8) BICHUI WANGJA will be on speed early and could go all the way while (7) IMPETUS and the returning from a short spell (2) DAEHAN JANGGUN could also be dangerous.

Selections (5) Goldholic (3) Space Port (8) Bichui Wangja (7) Impetus
Next Best 11, 9, 2, 12
Outsiders 1, 4, 6, 10
Fast Starters 4, 8

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 23)

It’s evening racing at Seoul on Saturday. 12 races from 14:00 to 21:00. There’s also a card of pony racing on Jeju.

English racecards are here. Notes on races 1-9 at Seoul below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 14:00 (KST)

(4) DAEGI SOKDO was 2nd on debut on June 26th and while well beaten by a good winner, will be strong favourite to go one better today. (9) MIGHTY MAMBO was 5th in that very same race, following on from an encouraging 4th on debut and can get closer today. All except one of the rest are debut-makers and among them (5) REBECCA and (6) DOUBLE A looked best in trials.

Selections (4) Daegi Sokdo (9) Mighty Mambo (5) Rebecca (6) Double A
Next Best 3, 1
Outsiders 2, 7, 8
Fast Starters 1, 4

Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 (KST)

(4) LUCKY EYE has shown the most of these so far and while she could only manage 3rd when sent off as favourite over 1200M last month, back at the minimum distance today she is very much the one to beat again, (2) FIRE BALL looked promising when less than a length behind Daegi Sokdo, who we saw in race 1, last time and can go close while (5) PRIVATE PARK and (7) GASOKDOLPUNG look to have scope for development. Returning from eight weeks out, (1) BONGWHA DON should also like the drop back in distance.

Selections (4) Lucky Eye (2) Fire Ball (5) Private Park (7) Gasokdolpung
Next Best 1, 3, 11, 8
Outsiders 6, 9, 10, 12
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 6

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:30 (KST)

Two standouts here and we’ll go with (2) CLAY SHOOT to just get the better of (3) NEULPUREUN KOKO. Both fillies enter having come close to their first win and both will be on the early speed. Best of the rest is (5) GWACHEON WONDER, 5th at the distance last time and capable of better here. (7) AGAIN SINHWA has been well supported in both his starts so far but is yet to perform. An apprentice jockey takes some weight off today and he’ll be backed once more. (8) CHOEGOUI CHANSA returned from six months out in June and looked promising and can go better today.

Selections (2) Clay Shoot (3) Neulpureun Koko (7) Again Sinhwa (5) Gwacheon Wonder
Next Best 8, 10,
Outsiders 1, 4, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 3, 7

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 16:20 (KST)

With two 3rd places among her past three, (7) CHEONJI GONGSA is the pick to get it right today. She’ll come from behind the early speed and can finish strongly. On the speed will be the main danger (3) MENI VET, the only one of these with 2nd place to her name and not without a chance of finally making the breakthrough. (4) LION WINNER is consistent and should find the money again with (2) PUREUN SIDAE also likely to be involved. (5) EONJE EODISEONA and (10) CHOEGODA DANGSIN put in creditable debuts last month on which they can both build.

Selections (7) Cheonji Gongsa (3) Meni Vet (2) Pureun Sidae (4) Lion Winner
Next Best 10, 5, 8, 6
Outsiders 1, 9, 11
Fast Starters 3, 6, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:10 (KST)

Competitive race here in which any number have claims. (3) SAETBYEORI and (7) ELECTRIC CHROME both come in following 2nd place finishes last start. Saetbyeori is generally quicker away and that could be key here. (1) YEOUI KING makes a quick return following a dreadful effort just two weeks ago and should go better today. (9) BRAVO JINSEONMI and (10) NEW NANCHO looks best of the rest.

Selections (3) Saetbyeori (7) Electric Chrome (1) Yeoui King (9) Bravo Jinseonmi
Next Best 10, 4, 5
Outsiders 2, 6, 8
Fast Starters 2, 3, 9

Race 6: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 17:50 (KST)

This race is open to imports but the favourites are likely to be the Korean-bred runners who have won their way up this level. (5) BONGHWA SARANG and (1) KKUM KAERA were both winners at this distance on their respective last starts and both should go well here with Bonghwa Sarang the slight pick. (10) TIZ KING and (2) OPEN BANK also have strong claims while the best of the imports is (4) GANGTA, who is yet to win but is quick and should be looking for a career-best finish here.

Selections (5) Bonghwa Sarang (1) Kkum Kaera (4) Gangta (10) Tiz King
Next Best 2, 6, 11
Outsiders 3, 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 1, 2, 7, 8

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

Another competitive event, this one for fillies & mares only. (1) BEST QUEEN is the slight pick having come from well off the pace to finish a strong 2nd on June 18th over 1400M. So long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do here, she has strong claims. (8) BOKDEOGI is up in class and distance following her maiden win over 1200M and should be competitive while (3) GEUMGOKSEONG can improve on a 4th place in a similar event last month. (4) HEEL TOWER and (6) ECTON GAYA are among others capable of finding the money.

Selections (1) Best Queen (8) Bokdeogi (3) Geumgokseong (6) Ecton Gaya
Next Best 4, 2, 5
Outsiders 7, 9
Fast Starters 3, 4, 8, 9

Race 8: Class 5 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 19:00 (KST)

(5) CHOWON GANGTA is up in class following victory on his return from almost a year out and he can be considered once more today. (8) HONEY BUTTER NINO was slightly disappointing in a tough race at this distance last month and should go much better today while (6) WELLBEING STORY proved he can be competitive at this class with a battling 4th last time out and can build on it here. (2) WANJEON MUGYEOL and (7) LUCKY SHARP may also provide some interest.

Selections (5) Chowon Gangta (8) Honey Butter Nino (6) Wellbeing Story (7) Lucky Sharp
Next Best 2, 9
Outsiders 1, 3, 4
Fast Starters 2, 4, 6, 9

Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 19:30 (KST)

Another really competitive one but Brian Dean’s (7) MUHUDAEJE looks superior having beaten two of these when winning over 1800M last month. (1) NIGHTOUTONTHETOWN, 4th in that race, and (10) ROYAL JIBBLY look to be the main dangers, the latter being a class and distance winner and racing for the first time since a 5th place in the YTN Cup at the end of May. (6) USEUNG HOUSE and (9) NAESARANG DAMYANG look best of the rest.

Selections (7) Muhudaeje (1) Nightoutonthetown (10) Royal Jibbly (6) Useung House
Next Best 9, 8, 4
Outsiders 2, 3, 5, 11
Fast Starters 1, 8

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 22)

It’s another big weekend of racing on the peninsula, culminating in the KNN Cup, the second leg of the Queens Tour at Busan on Sunday. It’s at Busan where things get underway on Friday with a ten-race card from 14:30 to 21:00.

English racecards can be found here. Notes on Busan races 1-9 below:

A number of jockeys from Seoul are in town today and Seoul’s champion jockey Moon Se Young combines with Busan’s top trainer Kim Young Kwan in races 1 and 4. Also to note is that trainer Bart Rice has a win rate of 40% in July so far and could conceivably have three more winners this afternoon.

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 (KST)

Nine of these twelve two-year-olds are debut-makers and the most promising of those looks to be (12) ADELE STAR, one of two who come in having won their trial. The outside gate isn’t ideal and the start will be important but he looks promising. The other trial winner is (7) S PARIS and he too will have backers. (10) PARK MAN and (11) BRACHAH both put in encouraging debuts last month. The latter is trained by Kim Young Kwan and with Seoul’s champion jockey Moon Se Young on board, he is sure to have a lot of support. (2) INDIAN KING looks best of the rest at this stage.

Selections (11) Brachah (12) Adele Star (7) S Paris (10) Park Man
Next Best 2, 9, 3, 1
Outsiders 4, 5, 6, 8
Fast Starters 7, 12

Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:55 (KST)

(5) SMART LADY was 3rd on debut in an all-fully race last month and she’s the pick to go on and score here. Main danger is (12) MISS CANBERRA, who has been close in each of her five outings to date without making the breakthrough and is sure to be close again. (1) ROAD TO SUCCESS has shown signs of improvement across his three starts so far as has (7) DANCING STAR and both can be considered. (3) MACH IMPACT, who also improved on what was his second start last month is another who can go well in a race where most will be vying to lead from the gate.

Selections (5) Smart Lady (12) Miss Canberra (7) Dancing Star (1) Road To Success
Next Best 3, 2, 11, 4
Outsiders 6, 8, 9, 10
Fast Starters 1, 5, 6, 8, 12

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:45 (KST)

Just fillies here with and Bart Rice’s stable continuing to be in excellent form, (11) MAJESTIC BEAUTY has to be the pick to score, lengthening out to 1300M for the first time. She’ll be strong favourite. (1) DANCING BLAZE was 2nd on debut in a relatively weak event over 1000M on June 24th, a full five-lengths ahead of (2) SOLYEONJISE, and can build on that here. (7) RAPA CHUKJE beat a couple of these when 3rd at 1000M in May and returns after two months off while (5) OH DAEBAK is yet to win in fourteen outings but is capable of placing. (4) QUEEN STEALTH can build on a quietly encouraging debut.

Selections (11) Majestic Beauty (1) Dancing Blaze (7) Rapa Chukje (5) Oh Daebak
Next Best 4, 8, 2, 6
Outsiders 3, 9, 10
Fast Starters 6, 8, 11

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 16:35 (KST)

Kim Young Kwan and Moon Se Young combine once more, this time with (11) JERAJIN, who was 4th on debut three weeks ago. The additional distance should be in her favour here and she can win. (9) GORYEOUI KKUM was beaten a long way into 3rd by a couple of good ones last month but can get much closer today. (8) PYEONGDAEMYEONGMUN is another who was 4th on debut last month and will likely join Jerajin on the early speed. She too should appreciate the extra distance. (10) TONGHAP ACE looks the best of an average rest.

Selections (11) Jerajin (9) Goryeoui Kkum (8) Pyeongdaemyeongmun (10) Tonghap Ace
Next Best 1, 5
Outsiders 2, 3, 4, 6, 7
Fast Starters 8, 11

Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:25 (KST)

(10) EUROPA steps up in class and distance having been a four-length winner on debut on June 17th. He made all that day and will be on speed once more and should be competitive. (9) COT WING is yet to win in nine starts but has finished no worse than 4th in any of his last seven outings and a breakthrough is possible. (3) SEUNGNIUI CHUKJE was last seen out of his depth in the Korean Derby two months ago but back at 1300M and in this company, he should be much happier and should be looking to lead early. (2) GOLD SUN and (5) GIFTED SUN are similar in name and in record and both can be looking to at least place here.

Selections (10) Europa (9) Cot Wing (3) Seungniui Chukje (2) Gold Sun
Next Best 5, 1, 4, 11
Outsiders 6, 7, 8, 12
Fast Starters 2, 3, 10

Race 6: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:05 (KST)

Another Bart Rice prospect here, (7) CHALLAUI JUIN was a winner on debut on July 1st, coming from off the pace to win well at this distance and while up in class here, looks the one to beat. (3) PANGPANG LEGEND comes in following three consecutive 2nd place finishes including last time at this class, beating a couple of the others who go here and she looks to be the main danger. One of those she beat last time was (8) DONGBANG BULPAE, who was making his first start at this level and can be considered for improvement. Kim Young Kwan’s (5) HWANGJEUI TANSAENG returns for the first time since winning in January and looked decent in a trial last week while (10) BIGBANG BID is yet to win in seventeen and probably won’t here but is capable of placing.

Selections (7) Challaui Juin (3) Pangpang Legend (8) Dongbang Bulpae (5) Hwangjeui Tansaeng
Next Best 9, 10, 12, 6, 2
Outsiders 1, 4, 11
Fast Starters 1, 2, 6, 12

Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:45 (KST)

Two wins from four and up in class today, (1) JANTEUGAREU looks to have promise and he can make all here to keep his good run going. (4) WONIL ROOKIE, a class and distance winner already, did disappoint last start, beaten by (5) ACE MARINE, among others, but can go better today although more favoured is likely to be (6) KWAEHAN MYEONGPUM who has been no worse than 4th in each of her last four outings and can go close again. (10) MAJOR WINNER, just beaten a neck into 2nd on her first try at this level on June 26th, is another strong contender.

Selections (1) Janteugareu (4) Wonil Rookie (6) Kwaehan Myeongpum (10) Major Winner
Next Best 5, 7
Outsiders 2, 3, 8, 9
Fast Starters 1, 4

Race 8: Class 4 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 19:35 (KST)

Competitive race this but (8) QUEEN ELEGANCE is slightly favoured to get her maiden win at what will be her tenth attempt. She comes in following a decent 2nd place at class and distance, beating a couple of these in the process on June 10th and can go one better today. Main danger looks to be (12) MAGIC LINE, who tries this distance for the first time while (2) ARION METAL and (3) CHOEGOUI SUNGAN, who finished 2nd and 3rd over 1400M on June 24th should be competitive again. (11) OHHWAMA looks best of the rest.

Selections (8) Queen Elegance (12) Magic Line (3) Choegoui Sungan (2) Arion Metal
Next Best 11, 6, 4, 7
Outsiders 1, 5, 9, 10
Fast Starters 8, 12

Race 9: Class 3 / 1900M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 20:30 (KST)

Banker favourite of the day here is (4) BUHWARUI BANSEOK. He has beaten plenty of these in recent starts; has never finished any worse than 3rd and should really be returning to the winner’s circle here. Main danger looks to be (6) GOLD BLUE, 3rd over this distance last start and with potential for improvement. (3) IRON TRAIN and (8) GOLD MOON ran 5th and 6th behind Buhwarui Banseok and can chase him home once more with (2) DASEOT ME the other one to consider.

Selections (4) Buhwarui Banseok (6) Gold Blue (3) Iron Train (2) Daseot Me
Next Best 8, 1, 5, 7
Fast Starters 6, 8

Triple Crown Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 17)

Sunday is potentially Triple Crown day. Power Blade aims to add the Minister’s Cup to his KRA Cup Mile and Korean Derby triumphs at Seoul Racecourse at 2.20pm.

There is plenty more happening though. English Racecards are here. Notes on selected races as follows:

Busan Race 1: Class 5: 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

Open contest to begin with but we’ll make (10) YUSEONG VICTORY, 3rd in a similar contest last month and with the in-form Seo Seung Un on board the slight favourite to prevail. (6) WHITTE QUEENS was 2nd in Busan’s top juvenile race last year but only ran one more time before getting injured and requiring surgery. She’s back after eight months out, looked recovered in trials and is a contender. Also back after a spell, albeit not as long is (8) GIGA SPEED. A winner at this class in March he was very sharp in a trial last weekend and is a contender here. The up-in-class (2) NORTHERN TRACE can go close as can (4) TRIPLE PARTY.

Selections (10) Yuseong Victory (6) Whitte Queens (8) Giga Speed (2) Northern Trace
Next Best 4, 3, 5, 11
Outsiders 1, 7, 9, 12
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(2) SILVERGRAY CAT beat (5) CHEONJI TAP and (4) NAREUSYA QUEEN as the three of them raced 2nd, 3rd & 4th at class and distance on June 19th. Cheonji Tap led for much of the way that day and we’ll go for her to lead all the way this time. Aside from those three, Brian Dean’s (9) HAPPY EAGLE, who was stepped up to 1200M for his first attempt on class 5 last month, should be happier back at 1000M today while (1) PERFECT BIC C has struggled of late but is another for whom the distance should suit.

Selections (5) Cheonji Tap (2) Silvergray Cat (4) Nareusya Queen (9) Happy Eagle
Next Best 1, 7
Outsiders 3, 6, 8
Fast Starters 1, 2, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 13:50 (KST)

Three of these are up in class today and should be competitive. (3) HAENGUN MANNAM was a solid winner at 1000M last start, has a strong finish and can go well. (7) DYNA’S DREAM has won four of her last five with the only defeat coming in the KRA Cup Mile in April. She’s had a couple of months off but will be on speed early and can go well. (5) GASI GONGJU hasn’t been seen since March when she came 2nd on what was just her second outing, coming from well off the pace. She’ll likely go forward here. None of them may be favourite though with (4) B.K. PHIL, 3rd at class and distance a month ago looking to be the one to beat. The down in class (1) GOLDEN LASS may also be considered.

Selections (7) Dyna’s Dream (3) Haengun Mannam (4) B.K. Phil (5) Gasi Gongju
Next Best 2, 1, 6, 8
Fast Starters 5, 7

Seoul Race 6: Class Open “The Minister’s Cup” / 2000M / Allowance, 3yo Colts & Fillies / KRW 500 Million / 14:20 (KST)

The final leg of the 2016 Korean Triple Crown sees (7) POWER BLADE looking to complete the set having been a dominant winner of both the KRA Cup Mile and the Korean Derby. He came from off the pace in the Mile and made all in the Derby and whatever tactics jockey Kim Yong Geun employs today, he will be favourite. The main danger is his stablemate, Korean Oaks winning filly (4) OTTUG OTTUGI who is one of only two horses to have beaten him. She will lead from the gate and Power Blade will have to come past. 2nd in the Derby, (8) ZETTABYTE can go well again and should like the extra furlong with (3) STEALTH and (5) SISEON POCHAK next best in a race that isn’t necessarily going to be simply a procession for Power Blade.

Selections (7) Power Blade (4) Ottug Ottugi (8) Zettabyte (3) Stealth
Next Best 5, 1, 2, 6
Fast Starters 4

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:50 (KST)

Bart Rice’s stable is in top form right now and that should continue here with (11) SUPERNOVA IJI, who can overcome the outside gate to get the lead here and get her second win in this filly-only race. Thomas Gillespie’s (5) MAJOR SLAM, 2nd at class and distance on June 24th, looks to be the main danger although (6) MISS BLUE, who has finished no worse than 3rd in each of her last four outings may also be considered. (2) BAEDARI GOSU was 4th, beaten by (9) GO JJANG on her first try at this class last month. (8) MACH BOLT ran poorly in that race but can improve today.

Selections (11) Supernova Iji (5) Major Slam (2) Baedari Gosu (6) Miss Blue
Next Best 8, 7, 10, 9
Outsiders 1, 3, 4
Fast Starters 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:15 (KST)

Competitive race this but we’ll make (3) SSAENGSSAENG DORI the narrow top pick. He was beaten by (7) SHINING TRY when favourite over class and distance last month but can overcome that form today and win from the front. Shining Try will be a danger once more, however, perhaps more backed will be (5) CHEONHABI and (1) MR. TANK, who ran 3rd and 4th at class and distance on June 18th and who both look to have wins in them at this level.

Selections (3) Ssaengssaeng Dori (5) Cheonhabi (1) Mr. Tank (7) Shining Try
Next Best 6, 4, 2
Fast Starters 3, 5

Busan Race 4: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:40 (KST)

5th in the Korean Oaks on her last start (10) SANTA GLORIA is favoured to get back to winning ways taking on for what is the most part modest imported opposition here. Indeed it is fellow Korean breds that provide the main danger, chief among them (4) VALKYRIE, who comes up in class following a good four-length win at this distance last month and the consistent (3) SSI F STAR, who can improve on recent minor money fishes. (6) ROCKET BLADE is also up in class but races for the first time since early April and has plenty to find. Among the imports, (8) PARTYINTHEDESERT looks the best.

Selections (10) Santa Gloria (4) Valkyrie, (3) Ssi F Star (8) Partyinthedesert
Next Best 12, 6, 9, 11
Outsiders 1, 2, 5, 7
Fast Starters 4, 6, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:05 (KST)

A really open race here but we’re going to go for (12) HANBIT NARA to finally get her maiden win. She’s yet to win to win in eight starts but has been runner-up on no less than five occasions including last time at this distance. If she is to be defeated again, (1) WHIZ RUN looks to be the most likely to do it, looking ready to return to two turns after winning two of his last three. (7) RAON BOLAVEN is up in class following a win at this distance on June 19th while (4) SEOCHANG BIHO and (6) SUPER COMMANDO, the latter being the only one of the twelve who is yet to race at this distance, others to look out for.

Selections (12) Hanbit Nara (1) Whiz Run (7) Raon Bolaven (6) Super Commando
Next Best 4, 5, 2, 9
Outsiders 3, 8, 10, 11
Fast Starters 1, 12

 

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 17:00 (KST)

(4) SUN ROK is up in class today having won five of his first seven starts. He has both a win and a loss at this distance but should be on speed early here and have too much for this field. Clear second-favourite will be (2) SUSEONG CAPTAIN. He is up in class following back to back wins at 1400M and 1300M and while he tries this distance for the first time, he should be competitive. He will likely join Sun Rok in looking to lead from the gate. (5) LUCKY HEART generally comes close and can place while (1) GEUMGAGI and (3) VALLEY STAR are best of the rest.

Selections (4) Sun Rok (2) Suseong Captain (5) Lucky Heart (3) Valley Star
Next Best 1, 7, 6
Fast Starters 2, 4

Seoul Race 10: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 18:00 (KST)

(8) GOREOUS DREAM is up in class having won five of his six previous outings. He generally leads from gate-to-wore and that’s what he’ll try to do here too. He does get a jockey change for the first time due to his regular rider being injured but Lee Chan Ho is a capable replacement. Also up in class is (2) THUNDER STEP following a really quick win over 1300M in May. He has had a couple of months off and can go close here. (1) SHARK and (3) HOLIDAY DREAM have experience at this level and both can put in solid races. Joining Goreous Dream setting the early pace will be (7) JANGSAN HORANGI, who showed signs of coming back into form when racing 4th over 1400M three weeks ago.

Selections (8) Goreous Dream (2) Thunder Step (3) Holiday Dream (1) Shark
Next Best 7, 4, 6
Outsiders 5, 9
Fast Starters 5, 7, 8

Triple Crown Final Leg: Minister’s Cup Runner-By-Runner Preview

The final leg of the 2016 Korean Triple Crown is at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon and Power Blade is set to be favourite to win the Minister’s Cup and complete a sweep of the Crown.

D3

Power Blade won the Derby in the rain in May. He returns to Seoul as favourite to complete the Triple Crown on Sunday (Pic: Ross Holburt)

He has seven rivals in the 2000M race which is being run at the early time of 2.20pm due to the attendance of a government delegation. Korean Oaks winner Ottug Ottugi who, like Power Blade is trained by Kim Young Kwan is expected to be the main danger.

Here’s a full run down of the field:

The Minister’s Cup (KOR GII) – Seoul Racecourse – 2000M – July 17, 2016 (14:20)

1. Saeroun Stealth (KOR) [Colors Flying – Captive (Mutakddim)] (7/3/1/1) Sang Young Lee –Makoto Okabe
Distance is a concern. His one run at 1800M in the Derby and he finished 8th, beaten by four of these. Returned to win over 1300M last month but he has a lot to find in this company. He settles in the middle of the pack.

2. Kkeutpan Hero (KOR) [Colors Flying – Ya Ya Sunshine (Elusive Quality)] (3/3/0/0) Sung J-Kwon – Chae Sang Hyun
Unbeaten in three starts to date, he joins the Classic trail late. He won by half a length over a mile on his last start on June 10th at class 4. He’s done nothing wrong so far although it is hard to gauge him in terms of the opposition he’s faced. It’s a big step up here.

3. Stealth (KOR) [Colors Flying – Missed The Tower (Woodman)] (10/4/0/3) Sang Young Lee –Ikuyasu Kurakane
Same owner and trainer as Saeroun Stealth, he’s come 3rd in both legs of the Triple Crown so far. He came from well off the pace in the Derbyand while he was a full six-lengths behind Zettabyte in 2nd, he may appreciate the extra furlong. He will settle towards the rear of the field once more. A chance.

4. Ottug Ottugi (KOR) [Forest Camp – Main Objective (Lion Heart)] Filly (10/7/2/0) Young Kwan Kim – Choi Si Dae
Power Blade’s stablemate, she beat him at Busan last autumn but Power Blade has since bested her no fewer than three times including in the KRA Cup Mile. She passed on the Derby and instead went to the Oaks, which she won easily. In every race there have been concerns about her stamina and that’s true here too but she is very quick, she will lead and anything that wants to win this race will have to come past her.

5. Siseon Pochak (KOR) [Colors Flying – Myeongseo Gongju (Carry The Flag)] (14/3/4/3) Jang Ki Min – You Hyun Myung
Back to back wins in April enabled him to take his chance in the Derby in which he finished a creditable enough 7th. Disappointed on his return to Busan and to a mile last month. That will make him an outsider here. Likely to be ridden patiently.

6. Baedari Bobae (KOR) [Colors Flying – Geumgang Gongwon (Pacificbounty)] (11/3/5/1) Chung Yul You – Lee Sung Jae
A latecomer to the Classic trail, he gets to take his chance following as good 2nd place on his first try around twoturns at the end of May. Comes in fresh but he does have plenty to find here.

7. Power Blade (KOR) [Menifee – Cheonmacheong (Lost Mountain)] (8/6/2/0) Young Kwan Kim –Kim Yong Geun
He is the favourite and even visually, looks superior. Unbeaten since losing to Ottug Ottugi in Busan’s champion juvenile race last autumn, he was a facile winner of both the Cup Mile and Derby. At the Derby, jockey Kim Young Geun defied instructions in the rain and took him to the front right from the gate. It paid off. It’s most likely he will let Ottug Ottugi lead here but if Power Blade is at anything like his best, he completes the Triple Crown. There is little downside to this horse.

8. Zettabyte (KOR) [Menifee – Fight Back (Sakura Seeking)] (9/3/3/1) Keum Man Lim – Lim Sung Sil
He was 4th in the Cup Mile and then 2nd in the Derby, three lengths adrift of Power Blade but six clear of Stealth in 3rd. The distance will suit him, he will look to come from off the pace and he has a chance.

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 15)

Eight of Busan’s best three-year-olds have traveled up to Seoul to contest the final leg of the Triple Crown on Sunday but it is at the South Coast track itself where the weekend’s action gets underway on Friday with 10 races from 14:30 to 21:00.

The Unions are strong here and their jockey members who have the temerity to ride in a big Stakes race at the other track on a Sunday are not permitted to ride at their own track on the other days. That means a number of top jockeys are absent on Friday. That leaves Seo Seung Un as the jockey to follow this afternoon although the Italian pair of Paolo Aragoni and Pasquale Borelli have opportunities too.

English racecards are here.  Here are notes on all races 1-10:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance (2yo) / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 (KST)

Nine of these two-year-olds make their racecourse debut here. (2) SEGI GANGJA is a half-brother to top sprinter Cheongu and looked good in a trial last month. He’ll be one of the favourites as will (3) ADELEUI BOM, a trial winner in May and (9) GOLD FLYING. The other fancied ones have raced before albeit only once. (4) FIRST SUN and (10) ZENITH COUNTY were 2nd and 4th respectively at this distance a month ago with both showing promise. The former is favoured today.

Selections (4) First Sun (2) Segi Gangja (3) Adeleui Bom (10) Zenith County
Next Best 9, 7, 5, 1, 11
Outsiders 6, 8, 12
Fast Starters 2, 10, 12

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:55 (KST)

Weak race and in such circumstances we’ll give another chance to (8) RED YOUNG MYEONGUN who hasn’t raced since a dreadful performance back on March 25th. He’d shown potential before that and looked ok in a recent trial and with a top trainer and jockey combination makes him favourite. (6) DYNAMIC DIVA struggled a little on a sloppy track last start when reasonably well backed and can improve today while (2) BOUND QUEENS should have progressed from an indifferent debut last month. (5) HWAJEONG and debut-maker (9) URI GIPPEUM are others to look out for.

Selections (8) Red Young Myeongun (6) Dynamic Diva (2) Bound Queens (9) Uri Gippeum
Next Best 5, 7, 1
Outsiders 3, 4
Fast Starters 6

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:45 (KST)

He’s not been too far away and it’s about time (8) DORAON GASOKDO stepped up here. Jockey Borelli should take the initiative and lead and if he does, he can win. (2) CHEONGMA DAEJANGUN was a solid 5th of 12 last time out, is a strong finisher and so long as he isn’t left with too much to do, can go close while (7) TAEGWON MISO is similar and also looks to have scope for improvement. (9) GOYOHAN JILJU was an unexpected 4th last time out and is capable of finding the money in this company while we will look for improvement from (1) GERMAN JEONCHA who was a touch disappointing when well supported on debut last month.

Selections (8) Doraon Gasokdo (1) German Jeoncha (2) Cheongma Daejangun (9) Goyohan Jilju
Next Best 7, 5, 4
Outsiders 3, 6
Fast Starters 1, 8

Race 4: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:35 (KST)

(6) THE QUEEN beat a couple of these when easily winning a modest race at class and distance back in April and while she has been slightly disappointing when well-backed in two starts since, she is the fastest o these and can return to winning ways here. The main dangers look to be (3) SAEBYEOK BADA, who actually beat The Queen in May and should be happy back at 1000M today and (9) BIO BLUE who raced for the first time this year two weeks ago and should build on the 5th place he scored that day. Third behind The Queen in April, (1) GIPPEUM HAE is capable of finding the money at this class while (7) GOLD SKY gives apprentice jockey Jung Do Yun his first ever race ride and is not without a chance.

Selections (6) The Queen (9) Bio Blue (3) Saebyeok Bada (7) Gold Sky
Next Best 1, 8
Outsiders 2, 4, 5
Fast Starters 2, 6

Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:25 (KST)

(2) LIMITLESS WIN won on debut last year before suffering an injury and undergoing surgery. He returned in June with a 5th place, looked good in a trial last week and can win here. It won’t be easy. (4) CHOEGANG ADVENTURE has finished no worse than 3rd in four outings to date and was 2nd in a good event at class and distance on June 17th, having led for much of the race. He’ll be on speed again here and is a big danger. (5) REALLY ONE has beaten both Limitless Win and Choegang Adventure and must be respected here while (1) CAPE MAGIC is up in class following his maiden win and should be competitive. (6) CHOA may also be considered for at least a place.

Selections (2) Limitless Win (4) Choegang Adventure (1) Cape Magic (5) Really One
Next Best 6, 9, 12, 3
Outsiders 7, 8, 10, 11
Fast Starters 3, 4, 6, 12

Race 6: Class 5 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:05 (KST)

(1) THE STARS and (2) BAEDARI HAENGUN were 2nd and 3rd – a full twelve lengths behind a very good winner – over a mile last time and they look to be the top picks here. Both like to come from off the pace with The Stars slightly favoured once more. (9) LUCKY HANMA is getting to grips with this class, could well get an uncontested lead in a race which doesn’t contain much early speed and can go close while (3) KWAEHAN YEONGUNG struggled last start but can be given another chance here. He struggled in a race in which (7) SHARP WIN was the shock winner. He must be respected today but he does carry an extra 5kg today and the odds are against him repeating. The up-in-class (6) EUNGNIBYEOSU makes for an interesting outsider.

Selections (1) The Stars (2) Baedari Haeungun (6) Eungnibyeosu (9) Lucky Hanma
Next Best 7, 3, 5, 4, 8
Fast Starters 9

Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:45 (KST)

(3) SAMIL STAR beat (5) BLUE STORM by half a length at 1300M on June 24th. Samil Star was a 25/1 outsider that day and while he’ll be nothing like that long today, Blue Storm can overturn that form. He led until close to home and back at 1200M can get it right this time. Another fast starter is (9) POKPUNGUI JEWANG. The Aussie-bred colt was a class and distance winner on June 19th, beating a couple of these in the process and can continue his good form today. (1) SANGSEUNG MULGYEOL and (2) DAEHO GANGJA look best of the rest.

Selections (5) Blue Storm (3) Samil Star (9) Pokpungui Jewang (1) Sangseung Mulgyeol
Next Best 2, 12, 11, 10
Outsiders 4, 6, 7, 8
Fast Starters 2, 5, 9

Race 8: Class 4 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 19:35 (KST)

(3) WISH ME LUCK was a twelve-length winner at this distance on June 17th (beating The Stars and Baedari Haengun, who we saw in race 6 into 2nd and 3rd) and following a 14-point bump in rating, is accordingly up in class here. He’s favourite to lead all the way again here although he does face (4) OCEAN LINE, who beat him at this distance in May. Bart Rice’s (1) DAEHANUIMYEONGSEONG comes in after back to back 3rd place finishes at this class and equalling those should be a minimum requirement today while (10) FIRST KING and (11) HWARYEOHANHAMSEONG are both capable at this class.

Selections (3) Wish Me Luck (1) Daehanuimyeongseong (4) Ocean Line (10) First King
Next Best 11, 6, 7, 9
Outsiders 2, 5, 8, 12
Fast Starters 3, 8

Race 9: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 20:30 (KST)

(1) MIRACLE BOLT was over-matched – and going significantly further than suitable – when a distance last in the Korean Oaks on June 12th. Back down at a sprint distance today, she should be a different prospect. (2) RISING CHAMP won on his second start back last December but was then injured and underwent surgery. He looked very sharp when breezing through a trial at the end of last month and looks dangerous first-up here. (4) ULTRA MAGIC is up in class following a battling win at this distance in June 26th while (7) ILLYUCHEON and (8) KWAEHAN JILJU look best of the rest.

Selections (2) Rising Champ (1) Miracle Bolt (8) Kwaehan Jilju (4) Ultra Magic
Next Best 7, 5
Outsiders 3, 6
Fast Starters 1, 2

Race 10: Class 2 / 1900M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 21:00 (KST)

(1) BAEKDU was a very impressive winner on his first try at class 2 on June 24th and while he is top weight here, he looks in fine form and can win again. Peter Wolsley’s (5) TURNPIKE is up in class following two eye-catching successes, both at this distance and he looks to be the main danger. Baekdu and Turnpike both beat (6) DAEJONGCHEON in May but that one finally got his maiden win at the fourteenth attempt on June 24th. He is up in class here but he is consistent and should be competitive. Last year’s Derby winner (3) YEONGCHEON ACE, still yet to return to the winner’s circle since that day and (4) CHEOGANGIJI are others to look out for.

Selections (5) Turnpike (1) Baekdu (6) Daejongcheon (3) Yeongcheon Ace
Next Best 4, 8, 9
Outsiders 2, 7
Fast Starters 5