Racing Previews

Ladies’ Day Preview: Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup – Punters Try Out New Ratings

It’s Ladies’ Day at Seoul Racecourse this Sunday. The capital’s champion filly or mare will be decided in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup. And while punters are encouraged to wear red, the race will be one of the first opportunities for them to try out Korean racing’s new “rating” system.

Cheonnyeon Dongan won the Donga Ilbo Cup last year - She'll have a different jockey on this week but should be favourite for the Gyeonggi Governor's Cup

Cheonnyeon Dongan won the Donga Ilbo Cup last year – She’ll have a different jockey on this week but should be favourite for the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup

For many years, Korean racing has been divided into 6 classes (5 at Busan due to there being fewer horses there) with horses receiving a fixed number of points for winning and placing and moving up the classes. There is no facility to move back down in class. Under the new system, all races will be reviewed and a horse assigned a new rating after it – if it is low they can go back down in class (more on that and its implications over the next couple of weeks).

The new system has started this month for horses in the existing class 1 only with a base rating for the top-level of 100. This Sunday, the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup – a Korean Group 3 race for Korean-bred fillies and mares – is one such race that has a rating for all entrants. However, to be honest, there isn’t a whole lot to choose between them!

Here is a rundown of the runners and riders with [Pedigree] Age (Runs/1st/2nd/3rd) Rating – Jockey

Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (KOR G3) – Seoul Racecourse – 2000M – Sunday October 26, 16:35

1. Pinot Noir [Capital Spending – Neungnyeokchungman (Pacificbounty)] 4 (14/4/4/2) – 103 – Park Hyun Woo
2. Mighty Forever [Yankee Victor – Redmarina (Sea Of Secrets)] 6 (38/3/6/4) – 101 – Lee Hyeok
3. Bukdaepung [Exploit – Half Fare (Half Term)] 5 (21/6/2/0) – 101 – Lee Dong Kug
4. Choichoro [Concept Win – Eunbiryeong (Mujaazif)] 6 (32/6/2/4) – 104 – Moon Se Young
5. Chowon Yeoje [Forest Camp – Navigation (Big Sur)] 5 (33/5/7/7) – 105 – Ikuyasu Kurakane
6. Chiming Vicar [Vicar – Chiming In (Fasiliyev)] 5 (29/6/2/1) – 101 – Choi Bum Hyun
7. Cheonnyeon Dongan [Ecton Park – Honeycakes (Hennessy)] 4 (16/8/2/3) – 113 – Seo Seung Un
8. X File [Exploit – Dorothy Dee (Woodman)] 5 (26/5/2/9) – 101 – Moon Jung Kyun
9. Full Moon Party [Vicar – Platinum Wildcat (Forest Wildcat)] 5 (23/7/0/5) – 102 – Yoo Seung Wan
10. Bongamsa [The Groom Is Red – Halla Yeoje (Technology)] 5 (38/4/5/2) – 101 – Jung Pyeong Soo
11. Chongal Gongju [Vicar – Isis (Didyme)] 5 (30/3/9/2) – 102 – Kim Hye Sun
12. Dangchan Miso [Concept Win – Chuwol Jasin (Road Of War)] 5 (38/6/2/3) – 101 – Lee Go Hweoi

So there you have it, the ratings say Cheonnyeon Dongan wins this one. And really, she should.

Here’s what’s happening when and where on what is forecast to be a very pleasant autumn weekend:

Friday October 24
Busan Racecourse: 11 races from 11:40 to 18:00
Jeju Racecourse: 9 races from 13:20 to 17:20

Saturday October 25
Seoul Racecourse: 12 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Jeju Racecourse: 9 races from 12:20 to 17:10

Sunday October 26
Seoul Racecourse: 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Busan Racecourse: 6 races from 12:45 to 17:00

It's Ladies Day At Seoul this Sunday

It’s Ladies Day At Seoul this Sunday

Mari Daemul Set For KRA Cup Classic Defence

Mari Daemul heads the field this coming Sunday at Seoul Racecourse as he attempts to successfully defend the Group 3 KRA Cup Classic that he won here a year ago.

Mari Daemul was in the KRA Cup Classic Winner's Circle this time last year

Mari Daemul was in the KRA Cup Classic Winner’s Circle this time last year

He will face eleven rivals. Let’s take a look at them (Name [Pedigree] Age Sex (Runs/1st/2nd/3rd) – Jockey)

KRA Cup Classic (KOR G3) – Seoul Racecourse – 2000M – October 19, 2014 – 16:35

1. Mani Income (USA) [Irish Road – Lemon Zest (Lemon Drop Kid)] 5 G (27/3/4/3) – Yoo Seung Wan
Decent horse who hasn’t finished higher than 4th this year. Probably won’t be getting a whole lot of income out of this race.

2. Samjeong Jewang (USA) [Patriot Act – Ms.Sadira (Dixieland Heat)] 3 G (8/5/0/2) – Ikuyasu Kurakane
Comes into the race off the back of three consecutive wins, including at this class and distance last time out. He beat Indian Blue in that race and while he doesn’t have the same weight advantage here, he ahs every chance of doing it again.

3. My Day (KOR) [Touch Gold – Smart Advice (Smart Strike)] 4 F (23/10/4/2) – Jang Chuyoul
The only Korean bred in the race, this filly has been in good recent form although she was found wanting in her only previous attempt against imported opposition. Good speed and likely to come from just off the pace, she is though, hard to recommend for the win

4. Unbeatable (USA) [Eddington – Baxter Hall (Rahy)] 4 C (25/4/5/6) – Ham Wan Sik
Not the most appropriate name for this one but he does usually finish in the money at least. Has a chance of doing so again but will probably find one or two too quick among this field.

5. Sun Speed (USA) [Pleasant Tap – Eva’s Way (Dixie Union)] 5 H (25/3/5/2) – Kim Hye Sun
Takes his chance after finishing 2nd of 7 in a slowly run race over 1900M last time out. Should get a good position but others will be quicker in the final furlong.

6. Him Jjang (USA) [Pure Prize – Aroarable (Roar)] 4 C (13/4/2/1) – Park Byeong Yun
This one was a really promising 3-year-old but has struggled since making it up to class 1 and is unplaced in three starts since returning from a layoff in June. Will most likely be unplaced again.

7. Rush Forth (USA) [Rush Bay – Fourth Quest (Norquestor)] 4 G (14/4/2/3) – Kim Ok Sung
Another who has the ability to go close without being likely to actually win. Fourth behind Samjeong Jewang and Indian Blue last time out, that seems a reasonable ambition again here.

8. Hwanggeumbiyul (USA) [Indian Ocean – Dixieland Gulch (Gulch)] 5 G (18/6/4/2) – Oh Kyoung Hoan
Three of his six wins have come at class 1 and he comes in after two consecutive triumphs. Likely to be among the frontrunners and with good closing speed, he is not without a chance.

9. Daehan Janggun (USA) [Zanjero – Casual Friday (Fit To Fight)] 3 C (9/3/3/2) – Shin Hyoung Chul
A first try at class 1 for this 3-year-old. He’s never been out of the money in his nine starts to date and has good late speed. May meet his match in his couple of these but shouldn’t be too far away.

10. Indian Blue (USA) [Henny Hughes – Gambler’s Passion (Prospector’s Gamble)] 4 F (20/5/4/5) – Moon Se Young
It really is a travesty that Indian Blue has only won 5 of her 20 races. One of the quickest closers in Korea – and the quickest in this race – she does have a habit of finding just a little bit too much to do. Second place should be a minimum requirement.

11. Mari Daemul (USA) [Go For Gin – Token Beauty (Gold Token)] 5 H (27/9/4/3) – Seo Seung Un
The defending champion hasn’t been seen on the track since finishing a disappointing 9th in the Busan Metropolitan in July. His last run at Seoul ended in success though and while he may not be the favourite, he has a chance of successfully defending his title.

12. Cheonma (USA) [Langfuhr – Rash Decision (Mt.Livermore)] 3 G (11/3/4/1) – Park Eul Woon
Steps up in class and in distance after two consecutive wins at class 2. Likely to be among the front-runners and he is quick, but this field is much superior to anything he has faced before.

Friday October 16
Busan Racecourse: 11 races from 11:40 to 18:00
Jeju Racecourse: 9 races from 13:20 to 17:20

Saturday October 17
Seoul Racecourse: 12 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Jeju Racecourse: 9 races from 12:20 to 17:50

Sunday October 18
Seoul Racecourse: 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Busan Racecourse: 6 races from 12:45 to 17:00

Weekend Preview: Juvenile Championships At Seoul & Busan

It’s that time of year already. Both Seoul and Busan host their Championship races for this year’s 2-year-old crop this coming weekend with the best performers from each race qualifying to face each other in Seoul next month in the Korean Breeders’ Cup to decide 2014’s Champion Juvenile.

Cheongnyong Bisang was Champion Juvenile in 2013. The race to succeed him begins in earnest this weekend

Cheongnyong Bisang was Champion Juvenile in 2013. The race to succeed him begins in earnest this weekend

The races also impact on next year’s Triple Crown. With the first leg, the KRA Cup Mile, being held in early April, it is vital to get points on the board now in order to qualify.

Unbeaten horses look the pick of both events. In the Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup at Seoul on Saturday, Raon Rusa is set to be favourite while Doraon Hyeonpyo is the one to beat in the Gyeongnam Sinmun Cup at Busan on Sunday.

Here are the full line-ups for both races with pedigrees, race records and riders:

Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup – Seoul Racecourse – 1200M – Saturday October 11, 16:00

1. Good Start [Limitless Bid – Yesangbaek (Pacificbounty)] (3/2/0/1) – Yoo Seung Wan
2. Always Winner [Creek Cat – Hallat’Eukkeup (Land Rush)] (2/1/0/0) – Oh Kyoung Hoan
3. Dream Queen [Creek Cat – Fine Jilju (Duality)] (4/2/2/0) – Seo Seung Un
4. The Zone Sesang [Creek Cat – Namdosarang (Chullo)] (2/2/0/0) – Jun Duck Yong
5. Raon Rusa [Pico Central – Kkumaeul (Curia Regis)] (4/1/0/1) – Moon Se Young
6. Hwanhuiuisungan [Sakura Seeking – Ma Home Cat (Tomorrow’s Cat)] (1/0/0/0) – Yoon Tae Hyuk
7. Vulcan [Ecton Park – Maid Of Cognac (Hennessey] (2/1/1/0) – Ham Wan Sik
8. Keunbada [Menifee – Keungori (Essence Of Dubai)] (2/1/1/0) – Jang Chuyoul
9. Comsmos King [Ingrandire – Lovely Shine (French Deputy)] (2/2/0/0) – Lee Hyeok
10. Clean Up Queen [Officer – Hera (Archer City Slew)] (3/1/0/0) – Ikuyasu Kurakane

Gyeongnam Sinmun Cup – Busan Racecourse – 1200M – Sunday October 12, 16:10

1. Yuseong Fighting [Didyme – Maggie’s Prayer (Songandaprayer)] (2/2/0/0) – Jo Sung Gon
2. Rafale [Colors Flying – Dongbang Choego (Al Naba )] (3/2/1/0) – You Hyun Myung
3. Fine Star [Volponi – T’ojong Kosu (Glorify)] (2/0/2/0) – Yang Young Nam
4. Namhae Sinhwa [Vicar – Intriga (Lord At Law) (2/1/1/0) – Kim Dong Young
5. Doraon Hyeonpyo [Colors Flying – Kilcoe Castle (Gone West)] (3/3/0/0) – Jeong Dong Cheol
6. Mac And Cheese [Menifee – Squared (Posse)] (2/1/0/1) (3/1/1/0) – Song Keong Yun
7. Special Line [Ecton Park – Rich Musique (Rizzi)] (3/1/1/0) – Jo Chang Wook
8. Ganghan Baram [Didyme – Benbane Head (Giant’s Causeway)] (3/0/2/0) – Lee Sung Jae
9. Summit Myeongun [Menifee – Summit Party (Ecton Park)] (3/1/1/1) – Masakazu Tanaka
10. Kkumui Hanbal [Colors Flying – Baengman Buja (Successful Appeal)] (3/1/1/0) – Lee Hee Cheon
11. Yeonggwanguitaepung [Menifee – Grand Pass (Grand Slam)] (3/1/1/1) – Chae Gyu Jun

* There is plenty of other action across the weekend. Aussie trainer Peter Wolsley will be looking to follow-up his Minister’s Cup victory last weekend with another class 1 win when My Winner goes in Friday’s feature at Busan. Also on the south coast, Gamdonguibada takes on Beolmaui Kkum and New York Blue in a class 1 race on Sunday.

Here’s what’s happening when and where:

Friday October 10
Busan Racecourse: 11 races from 11:40 to 18:00
Jeju Racecourse: 9 races from 13:20 to 17:20

Saturday October 11
Seoul Racecourse: 13 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Jeju Racecourse: 9 races from 12:20 to 17:20

Sunday October 12
Seoul Racecourse: 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Busan Racecourse: 6 races from 12:45 to 17:05

Seoul All Set For SBS Asia Challenge Cup

The horses have arrived, the speeches have been made, the dinners have been served, the wine has been drunk. Now all that’s left is the actual race. Later on Sunday, the SBS Asia Challenge Cup will finally go to post at Seoul Racecourse.

Can Wonder Bolt keep the Asia Challenge Cup in Korea? (Pic: Elan959)

Can Wonder Bolt keep the Asia Challenge Cup in Korea? (Pic: Elan959)

And an extremely open race it is too. On paper, the three horses visiting from Singapore look too good. El Padrino, Trudeau and Speedy Cat all have ratings well in excess of 100 and are a class above the home team.

However, the race isn’t being run on paper. More to the point, it’s not being run on turf or polytrack either, but on sand. Alien to the blue-blooded visitors, but totally natural to the Korean racers.

Then there is the Japanese challenge. The NAR has great depth in its sprint ranks – arguably more so then the JRA – and while Chocolat Verrine, Pierre Tiger and Toshi Gang Star are no world beaters, they are all proven winners and will have few problems in Seoul’s sandpit.

It’s a wide open contest and while class may eventually win out, it is set to be a great race.

SBS Asia Challenge Cup – Seoul Racecourse – 1400M – August 31, 2014 (17:25 KST / 16:25 SIN)

1. PERSIA WANGJA (CAN) [Ghostzapper – Dynamite Dancer (Lite The Fuse)] 3-year-old Colt (10/5/1/1) – Park Hyun Woo
Unbeaten at this distance, however, this is a far stronger field than he’s ever faced before. Expect him to try to come from just off the pace, but it is going to be very difficult.

2. TRUDEAU (AUS) [Exceed And Excel – Canadian Legacy (Kris)] 7-year-old Gelding (33/7/5/9) – Noel Callow
A big chance with a perfect draw and Noel Callow, who has a 50% strike rate on this track, at the controls. He’ll try to close in the home straight and if he does it, expect Seoul to be drunk dry of wine by the end of the night.

3. CHANGIPARANG (USA) [Touch Gold – Victory Roll (Deerhound)] 5-year-old Mare (27/2/5/3) – Shin Hyoung Chul
Likely to be outclassed here. By no means a bad horse, but doesn’t have the speed to compete in this company.

4. EL PADRINO (NZ) [Mr. Nancho – Crownie (Luskin Star)] 6-year-old Gelding (29/8/5/4) – David Flores
Racked up another big race win earlier this month, how he takes to the sand is the big question. If he does, then he really should be winning.

5. CHOCOLAT VERRINE (JPN) [Gold Allure – Breezy Woods (Timber County)] 5-year-old Mare (24/6/5/3) – Daisuke Mashima
Perhaps the best of the Japanese visitors, certainly on recent form. Should come from just off the pace and has every chance.

6. WONDER BOLT (USA) [Desert Warrior – Little Champ (Great Gladiator)] 4-year-old Colt (19/5/7/1) – Lee Chan Ho
Perhaps the best hope for Korea. Absolutely belted Watts Village and Fly Top Queen last time out and unlike most Korean sprinters, he doesn’t need to lead from gate to wire to win.

7. PIERRE TIGER (JPN) [Cacoethes – Be Fragrant (Daitaku Helios)] 6-year-old Horse (38/13/5/4) – Fumio Matoba
Veteran jockey Matoba won the SBS Cup last year on a relatively unfancied Japanese raider last year. Pierre Tiger should welcome the drop back in trip and could make it a double for Matoba.

8. TOSHI GANG STAR (JPN) [Kurofune – Pisa no Birkin (Sunday Silence)] 7-year-old Horse (46/4/6/0) – Takayuki Yano
The least fancied of the Japanese trio, the grey is likely to be one of the front-runners but may have a hard time staying there.

9. WATTS VILLAGE (USA) [Forestry – Edey’s Village (Silver Deputy)] 4-year-old Colt (14/6/4/1) – Seo Seung Un
Overcame all the odds to record an incredible win for Korea in Tokyo last year but he’s going to have to overcome them again to win here. That 9-length defeat at the hands of Wonder Bolt was a bad one.

10. NEW YORK BLUE (USA) [Candy Ride – Aim For The Moon (Deputy Minister)] 3-year-old filly (11/5/4/0) – Masakazu Tanaka
One of two raiders from Busan and both have a chance. A really good filly with a lot of potential at any sprint distance, she should take to the Seoul track well.

11. INDIAN BLUE (USA) [Henny Hughes – Gambler’s Passion (Prospector’s Gamble)] 4-year-old filly (18/5/4/4) – Ikuyasu Kurakane
An extremely versatile filly, she’s yet another who has the potential to win this. Hasn’t really been herself on two visits to Busan in her last two races but back in Seoul, she should be back to her best.

12. SPEEDY CAT (NZ) [Scaredee Cat – Lane Cove (Magic Of Sydney)] 6-year-old gelding (35/8/7/5) – Danny Beasley
An unhelpful draw but there is plenty of time to overcome it before the turn. He’s not won this year but is a classy horse with classy jockey on board.

13. COWBOY SON (USA) [Cowboy Cal – Nosmallachievement (Smart Strike)] 3-year-old colt (11/8/1/2) – Yoo Hyun Myung
The second of Busan’s entries and this one is just as good. Surprised everybody by grabbing 3rd in the Busan Metropolitan over 2000M, he should love the step back to his favoured sprint distance.

14. FLY TOP QUEEN (USA) [Henny Hughes – Cape Discovery (Cape Town)] 4-year-old Filly (9/6/1/1) – Park Tae Jong
Just like Watts Village, that defeat at the hands of Wonder Bolt dealt quite a blow to her reputation. As a result, she’s likely to start at the longest odds of her career. There’s never been a better time for her to put that right.

Korean Oaks 2014: Queen’s Blade Seeks Derby/Oaks Double – Full Preview

Derby winner Queen’s Blade will head the field in the Korean Oaks at Busan Racecourse this Sunday.

Nothing else in sight. Kim Yong Geun and Queen's Blade win the 2014 Korean Derby (Pic: Ross Holburt)

Nothing else in sight. Kim Yong Geun and Queen’s Blade win the 2014 Korean Derby (Pic: Ross Holburt)

Last year Speedy First landed the Derby/Oaks double and Queen’s Blade, who has run just once since that Classic win – a 12 length stroll – should be the favourite. Here’s a full run down of the runners and riders with pedigrees and race records:

Korea Oaks (KOR GII) – Busan Racecourse – 1800M – Aug 24, 2014 – 18:00

1. First One [Peace Rules – Keep This Cat (Z Z Cat)] (11/3/2/2) – Seong Keong Yun (Busan)
Last when stepping up in class and distance last time out against a challenging field following two consecutive victories. Others are more proven.

2. Nubi Queen [Menifee – Dream Runner (Our Poetic Prince)] (12/4/1/2) – Seo Seung Un (Seoul)
7th in the KRA Cup Mile at Busan in April and 6th in the Seoul Oaks trial. In between that she landed a class 3 victory at this distance to suggest she has potential and Seo Seung Un making the trip to Busan to partner her suggests an outside chance.

3. Jungang Gongju [Menifee – Command And Hope (Commands)] (10/3/3/0) – Choi Si Dae (Busan)
An also-ran in the KRA Cup Mile but has shown steady improvement in two starts since, including a class 3 win at this distance in a reasonably competitive time. Likely to come from just off the pace and could be one to watch in the home straight.

4. Hwanggeumbitjijung [Menifee – Firstclasscat (Catienus)] (8/5/0/1) – Masakazu Tanaka (Busan)
Disappointed in the Gyongnam DoMin Ilbo last time out and hasn’t done anything to suggest that this is her ideal trip. However, she has the fastest recorded final furlong of the whole field and if she stays, she may surprise.

5. Gamun Yeonjanggun [Revere – Wild Triple (Military)] (6/2/1/1) – Kim Do Hyun (Busan)
A bit of an unknown quantity, she’s yet to try further than 1400M. She’s undoubtedly quick though and is not without a chance of sneaking a place.

6. Bravo Life [Peace Rules – Melina’s Fuse (Light The Fuse)] (7/5/0/0) – You Hyun Myung (Busan)
She comes into this race after 5 consecutive wins. The toughest of those was only at class 3 – beating Jungang Gongju by a length. She’ll need to find more to win here but has great potential. Expect her to be looking for the lead early.

7. Secret Garden [Archer City Slew – Powerful Runner (Bertolini)] (12/3/1/1) – Jo Sung Gon (Busan)
Tried her luck against imported horses last month without success. She does have a win at this distance, however, and with Busan’s champion jockey on board, look for her to make a move around the home turn. Whether she’ll be fast enough in the straight is another matter.

8. Ohio Girl [Mupae Gangja – Victor Gypsy (Creek Cat)] (8/1/2/1) – Chae Gyu Jun (Busan)
Korean-bred Sire and Dam means this is the purists’ favourite. Shan’t be the punters’ favourite though. 7 of her 8 starts have been at 5 furlongs and there’s little recommend.

9. Geumbit Hwanhui [Peace Rules – Sincheongchun (Silent Warrior)] (9/4/0/2) – Jang Chuyoul (Seoul)
The winner of the Seoul Oaks Trial by 3-lengths at long odds, she’ll most likely be at reasonably long-odds to repeat. It was a slow time that day and while Geumbit Hwanhui is talented, she may find one or two too quick here.

10. Zenith [Duality – Need More Business (Alzao)] (7/1/0/0) – Lee Gang Seo (Seoul)
Never tried at further than 1300M and hasn’t been especially impressive in the process. Difficult to reccommend here.

11. Daeryuk Gangja [Revere – Rendezvous Bay (Wonderloaf)] (12/0/1/2) – Lee Ah Na (Seoul)
She’s never won in 12 starts to date and that’s unlikely to change here. She’ll find this field very challenging.

12. Queen’s Blade [Menifee – Harboring (Boston Harbor)] (10/6/3/0) – Kim Yong Geun (Busan)
The Derby winner. She’s run once since then, a front-running 12-length win over a mile at class 1 and that was enough to suggest that on form, she’s very difficult to beat here. Physically impressive, she’s a top quality filly.

13. Ua Deungseon [Menifee – Singgereoun (Mr. Adorable)] (6/4/0/0) – Shin Hyung Chul (Seoul)
A 6-length win over this distance at class 3 last time suggests there’s more to come and although she’ll have to go much quicker than she did that day to compete here, she’s not without hope. Could be in with a chance of a place.

14. Argo Asset [Menifee – Honeypit (Fusaichi Pegasus)] (10/4/3/1) – Shinichi Terachi (Seoul)
Sent off as favourite for the Seoul Oaks Trial but finished 4th. She’d already shown she could compete at a higher level. A lot of improvement will be needed here though.

15. Jungang Cheonhae [Creek Cat – Pupil (Unbridled)] 11/3/4/1) – Kim Dong Young (Busan)
Third at this distance in a decent time last month building on some decent results at sprint distances. Was behind Winner’s Marine that day but could go close.

16. Winner’s Marine [Volponi – Graceful Ballerina (Posse)] (9/5/2/0) – Yang Young Nam (Busan)
She won her first 5 races before crashing back to Earth in the KRA Cup Mile. Hasn’t won since but comes into the race off the back of two consecutive 2nd places, including one at this distance suggests that more is to come and she can’t be discounted.

Weekend Race Times

Seoul takes its summer holiday this weekend so Busan moves to Saturday and Sunday.

With Seoul on holiday, the focus is on Busan this weekend

With Seoul on holiday, the focus is on Busan this weekend

Here’s what’s happening when and where:

Friday August 1
Jeju Race Park: 15 races from 13:30 to 19:50

Saturday August 2
Busan Race Park: 10 races from 14:40 to 19:50
Jeju Race Park: 6 races from 13:00 to 15:55

Sunday August 3
Busan Race Park: 15 races from 13:00 to 19:50

Busan Metropolitan City Stakes: Full Preview

The “Summer Grand Prix” is upon us. 15 horses will go to post at Busan on Sunday for what is the fast becoming the most prestigious race of the summer months in Korea, the Busan Metropolitan City Mayor’s Cup.

Who will follow Tough Win as the Busam Metrpolitan winner? (KRA)

Who will follow Tough Win as the Busam Metrpolitan winner? (KRA)

The Cup – known as the Busan Metropolitan for short – has been Open to horses from both Busan and Seoul since 2009 and has been won by such big name horses as Tough Win (twice), Yeonseung Daero and Dangdae Bulpae. There will be a new name in the winner’s circle this year, however.

Here’s full look at the runners and riders:

Busan Metropolitan City – Busan Racecourse – 2000M – Sunday July 20, 17:15

1. Indian Blue (USA) [Henny Hughes – Gambler’s Passion (Prospector’s Gamble)] 4 F (17/5/4/4) – Ikuyasu Kurakane (Seoul)
A really good filly, she was 4th in the Grand Prix in Seoul last December but was well beaten behind Gamdonguibada at Busan in the KNN Cup. The fastest closer in the field, if Gamdonguibada and the other front-runners go too quickly, too soon, she could have a chance.

2. Gamdonguibada (USA) [Werblin – Radyla (Country Pine)] 4 M (19/11/3/3) – Masakazu Tanaka (Busan)
She’s won the first two legs of the Queens’ Tour in imperious style in her last two outings and neither facing the makes nor the step back up in distance will hold any fears here. The 2012 Grand Prix winner is a top quality filly. Lost to Heba at this distance in January when giving away 9kg – that shouldn’t happen here. Huge opportunity for Masa Tanaka replacing the injured Joe Fujii in the saddle.

3. Hwanggeumjijon (USA) [Medallist – Milady Sadie (Meadow Monster)] 5 G (22/2/2/3) – Kim Gui Bae (Seoul)
Nothing to recommend here. His two wins came on his first two starts two years ago. Has never actually made it to regular class 1 racing and he was 12th in this race last year. Connections clearly enjoy the day out at Busan.

4. Chogwang (AUS) [Lion Heart – Colonial Dancer (Pleasant Colony)] 5 H (23/3/5/3) – Kim Hyun Joong (Busan)
A really good-looking 8-length winner last time out at this distance against class 1 horses at odds of nearly 30/1. Unlikely to repeat here but expect him to be challenging for the lead early.

5. Russian To Win (USA) [Mayakovsky – Aristie (Loustrous Bid)] 4 C (14/3/0/1) – Yoon Tae Hyuk (Seoul)
Another from Seoul who’s here for the day out. Was a decent prospect at one time but never really recovered form after a 6-moth layoff last year. Has never graduated from class 2 although usually runs in class 1 company and generally doesn’t do very well. No chance.

6. Bichui Wangja (USA) [Roman Ruler – Quiet Delight (Grindstone)] 4 C (16/6/5/2) – Shin Hyoung Chul (Seoul)
Has two class 1 wins to his name this year and is by no means a bad horse. Likes to come from just off the pace and while he is quick, it’s questionable whether he’ll have enough speed to go past the front-runners here or hold off the likes of Indian Blue late on. Outside chance of a place.

7. Cheongchun Bulpae (KOR) [Milwaukee Brew – Placid Star (Placid Fund)] 5 G (23/12/2/2) – Jo Sung Gon (Busan)
The first of two for trainer Peter Wolsley. He comes into the race off the back of two consecutive wins at this distance against class 1 Korean bred horses. He’ll face tougher opposition here but is quick enough to compete. Likes to be towards to front early on and then stays on the straight.

8. Star Bolt (USA) [Fusaichi Pegasus – D’Oro Doll (Touch Gold)] 4 F (20/3/6/1) – Park Geum Man (Busan)
Third behind Gamdonguibada in the KNN Cup last time out and will probably be aiming for a similar finish here. Likely to be close to the pacesetters early on but it is questionable whether she will have enough speed to get past them in the home straight. A Place bet.

9. Dynamic Jilju (USA) [Forestry – Beat Your Feet (Dixieland Band)] 3 C (15/5/2/1) – Choi Si Dae (Busan)
Hasn’t won in four class 1 starts but has finished in the money on each occasion, second place in the Gukje Sinmun being the highlight. Will expect to challenge for a similar position again. Another who sits just off the lead early on and another who may not be quite quick enough when it counts.

10. Cheonji Bulpae (AUS) [Bernardini – Purrfection (Tale Of The Cat)] 5 H (21/10/0/3) – Kim Yong Geun (Busan)
Peter Wolsley’s second entrant was 3rd in the Grand Prix last December and then won his first two starts of 2014 before showing up out of sorts in his most recent two. When he wins, it’s from a spot just behind the leaders, generally hitting the front early in the home straight. There will be plenty of competition for that position but on his day, Cheonji Bulpae can compete with this field.

11. Nobody Catch Me (USA) [With Distinction – Nana’s Babe (Allen’s Prospect)] 4 G (15/4/4/2) – Yang Young Nam (Busan)
Despite his name, trainer Kim Young Kwan’s second entry doesn’t usually lead from the front and then hope no-one catches him. Beaten 7-lengths last time out by resurgent stable-mate Magic Dancer, he still comes in here not without a chance. Tough to see him winning but should be challenging at the business end of the race.

12. Cowboy Son (USA) [Cowboy Cal – Nosmallacheivement (Smart Strike)] 3 C (10/8/1/1) – You Hyun Myung (Busan)
The biggest earner to date worldwide for his sire, Cowboy Son is so far only proven up to 1500 metres. He undoubtedly has the fastest sprint in the race but whether he can do that after an extra two and a half furlongs is the big question here. Definitely has class, but will he stay? The dark-horse of the field.

13. Mari Daemul (USA) [Go For Gin – Token Beauty (Gold Token)] 5 H (26/9/4/3) – Ham Wan Sik (Seoul)
The somewhat surprising winner of the KRA Cup Classic last autumn has been in reasonable form this year and comes into the race following a win over 1800 metres last month. Generally comes from off the pace and if he runs to his best, can compete.

14. Heba (USA) 4 F [Peace Rules – Sue’s Temper (Temperence Hill)] (21/6/4/1) – Jeong Dong Cheol (Busan)
Scored a win over Gamdonguibada back in January although she had a huge weight advantage that day which she doesn’t have here. Has been in indifferent form since then and will need to step up significantly to compete. Another who will most likely try to come out of the pack as they enter the home straight.

15. Sangnyu (USA) [Borken Vow – Midtown Miss (Yes It’s True)] 5 M (23/5/3/3) – Jang Chuyoul (Seoul)
Was 9th on her last start which was at Busan in the KNN Cup. Hasn’t won for a year and while she has a quick finish, it is highly unlikely to be quick enough to trouble the favourites here.

Weekend Race Times

It’s the Gyeongnam Do-Min Ilbo Cup at Busan on Sunday. Meanwhile, it’s the 2nd Seoul simulcast to Singapore on Saturday on another busy weekend of racing.

It's set to be a warm and humid weekend

It’s set to be a warm and humid weekend

The Do-Min Ilbo is set to be a cracking race this year. Peter Wolsley’s duo of Jungle Jim and Never Seen Before face fellow 3-year-olds Hwanggeumbitjijung, Gumpo Sky, KRA Cup Mile 3rd placer Namdo Trio and the on-a-roll Hangangui Gijeok.

They’re joined by four older horses including Challenger Dream and Mega Bolt in what is potentially the race of the year so far.

There ae class 1 contests on both Saturday and Sunday at Seoul while 10 of the bumper card of 13 races on Saturday will be broadcast live to Singapore. It’s the second of 6 dates of simulcasting throughout this year with the first, by all accounts, passing off reasonably well two weeks ago.

If you’re in Singapore this Saturday, forget shopping and head to Kranji, the nearest OTB or switch on StarHub Sports and join Gyongmaman from 12pm.

Of course, if you’re in Korea, here’s what’s happening when and where:

Friday July 4
Busan Race Park: 11 races from 13:00 to 19:00
Jeju Race Park: 8 races from 13:25 to 17:00

Saturday July 5
Seoul Race Park: 13 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Jeju Race Park: 9 races from 12:20 to 17:20

Sunday July 6
Seoul Race Park: 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Busan Race Park: 6 races from 12:45 to 17:00 including the Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Cup at 16:10

Indie Band Break Leaves Magic Dancer Heading Jeju Cup Field

Genuine stars are few and far between in Korean horse racing at the moment. The glory days of a couple of years ago when the likes of Mister Park, Dongbanui Gangja, Tough Win, Dangdae Bulpae, Smarty Moonhak and Yeonseung Daero made each Stakes race one to savour, are gone.

Indie Band plays up after winning the President's Cup. He'll now be out for up to a year,

Indie Band plays up after winning the President’s Cup. He’ll now be out for up to a year,

The emergence therefore of Indie Band, who stormed to victory first in the President’s Cup and then in the Grand Prix Stakes at the tail end of last year, was warmly welcomed and his return to Seoul to compete for the Jeju Governor’s Cup was hotly anticipated.

The news that came through this week that Indie Band had suffered a fracture to his leg that is likely to keep him off the track for a minimum of nine months. Indeed, whether he ever returns must be open to debate.

Never a very good worker in the mornings, Indie Band had, by all accounts appeared even more out of sorts on arrival in Seoul last week, with an x-ray on Wednesday confirming the break.

His absence leaves just nine in the Jeju Governor’s Cup, a race which was won by another now retired star, Jigeum I Sungan, a year ago. Here’s a full run-down of the field (Name [Pedigree] (Starts/1/2/3) – Jockey (home track):

Jeju Governer’s Cup – Seoul Racecourse – 2000M – June 29, 2014 – 16:40

1. Road To Prince [Pico Central – Ransom Bay (Red Ransom)] (22/9/4/1) – Kim Yong Geun (Busan)
Came back into form after an indifferent spell with a 2nd place last time over a mile. Likes to go from the front and should be in contention for a place.

2. My Winner [Vicar – Bridlingbride (Unbridled’s Song)] (21/6/6/0) – Lee Hee Cheon (Busan)
Peter Wolsley’s entrant has a definite chance here. Unfashionable jockey should mean generous odds and while his last visit to Seoul didn’t go well, we can expect improvement here. Worth investing in at least a place.

3. Singgeureounachim [Vicar – Singgeureoun (Mr. Adorable)] (41/9/7/11) – Seo Seung Un (Seoul)
A very consistent performer who was in the winner’s circle over this distance last time out in May. Likes to come from off the pace and while he’s not the quickest, he has plenty of stamina and will pick off any tired front-runners.

4. Impetus [Exploit – Miss Stravinsky (Stravinsky)] (16/6/2/3) – Choi Bum Hyun (Seoul)
A solid performer although 2000 metres might be at the limits oof his ability. Difficult to recommend to win but is one of a number with the possibility of placing.

5. Magic Dancer [Forest Camp – Wildly Magic (Peterhof)] (14/9/3/0) – Kanichiro Fujii (Busan)
The de-facto favourite was a 7-length winner over this distance at Busan last start. Won from the front that day and will probably try to do so again. Big race jockey on board and difficult to look past.

6. Chowon Yeoje [Forest Camp – Navigation (Big Sur)] (30/5/7/6) – Ham Wan Sik (Seoul)
Another consistent sort who is likely to show at the front early. He’ll be an outsider here.

7. Last Mudae [The Groom Is Red – White Aloe (White Muzzle)] (26/4/6/4) – Moon Se Young (Seoul)
Beaten into 4th by Singgereounachim last time out, he’ll benefit from the return of Moon Se Young to the saddle and has strong place hopes.

8. Cheonnyeon Dongan [Ecton Park – Honeycakes (Hennessy)] (13/7/1/3) – Cho Kyoung Ho (Seoul)
Beaten by Joy Lucky in the Seoul Owners’ Cup last time out, this filly has only run twice all year but if she’s at her best, she will give Magic Dancer a very strong test. Likes to come from just off the pace and she’ll have plenty of support here.

9. New And Best [Trick Of Fate – Yongunch’eon (Phizam)] (56/4/6/3) – Bang Choon Sik (Seoul)
A reliable old handicapper, but New And Best will find a few of these far too quick here.

The KNN Cup: Full Preview

The top fillies and mares on the peninsula are in Busan this weekend for the KNN Cup, the 2nd-leg of the 2014 Queens’ Tour.

Gamdonguibada won the Ttukseom Cup, the first leg of the Queens' Tour

Gamdonguibada won the Ttukseom Cup, the first leg of the Queens’ Tour

Ttukseom Cup winner Gamdonguibada will renew hostilities with Indian Blue and Joy Lucky as a full field of 16 takes on the mile-long test.

Scroll down for a full preview but first, here’s what’s happening when and where on this holiday weekend:

Friday June 6
Busan Race Park: 10 races from 13:00 to 19:00
Jeju Race Park: 9 races from 13:25 to 17:40

Saturday June 7
Seoul Race Park: 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Jeju Race Park: 9 races from 12:20 to 17:10

Sunday June 8
Seoul Race Park: 11 races from 10:50 to 18:00
Busan Race Park: 6 races from 12:45 to 17:05

KNN Cup – Busan Race Park – 1600M – June 8, 2014

1. Baedari Yeongung (KOR) [Yehudi – Recondite (Silver Deputy)] 5 (31/5/2/4) – You Hyun Myung (Busan)
She wins from the front and will likely look to get there early. It’s been a long time since she’s done so successfully though and on recent form is very unconvincing.

2. Shining Future (KOR) [Silver Train – Juliet’s Kiss (Kissin Kris)] 5 (24/4/3/2) – Darryll Holland (Busan)
She was 6th in the Ttukseom Cup and that would appear to be the extent of her ambitions here as well. The booking of Holland is a bonus but even so, a place seems her best hope.

3. New York Blue (USA) [Candy Ride – Aim For The Moon (Deputy Minister)] 3 (9/4/3/0) – Masakazu Tanaka (Busan)
The only 3-year-old in the field, she was a smart winner over 1400M last up. She has the speed and looks like she can go further but company of this calibre may be a little too much too soon.

4. Gamdonguibada (USA) [Werblin – Radyla (Country Pine)] 5 (18/10/3/3) – Kanichiro Fujii (Busan)
Exceptionally impressive leading from gate to wire in the Ttukseom Cup, she’s not been seen on the track since except for a race trial in early May – exactly the same prep she did for the Ttukseom. Joe Fujii, who won the Grand Prix on her, returns to the saddle and she’ll be tough to oppose.

5. Star Bolt (USA) [Fusaichi Pegasus – D’Oro Doll (Touch Gold)] 4 (19/3/6/0) – Kim Dong Young (Busan)
4th in the Gukje Sinmun Cup last month, she usually goes close but rarely wins. That’s likely to be the same here.

6. Chiming Vicar (KOR) [Vicar – Chiming In (Fasliyev)] 5 (25/6/2/1) – Park Sang Woo (Seoul)
Came from just off the pace to grab a class 2 victory in March but was poor last time out on her class 1 debut. Likely to find the going similarly tough here.

7. Silver Classic (USA) [Chapel Royal – Psychic Friend (Star De Naskra)] 5 (24/4/3/2) – Choi Si Dae (Busan)
Was 10th first up after a long layoff last month. Desperately needed the run but is unlikely to have come on well enough to challenge here.

8. Nulpurunchongnyong (KOR) [Master Command – Sea Button (Sea Of Secrets)] 4 (12/5/4/0) – Jun Duck Yong (Seoul)
A nice looking filly who comes into the race in good form. She likes to start slow and then pick them off in the straight with good late speed. Could be a threat although this is by far the toughest field she’s faced.

9. Heba (USA) [Peace Rules – Sue’s Temper (Temperence Hill)] 4 (20/6/4/1) – Jo Sung Gon (Busan)
She has two class 1 wins to her name and was 4th in the Ttukseom Cup. She’s not been seen since – indeed her only other run this year was a nothing to write home about 5th – but is a contender here. She’s won from the front and from clsoing late

10. Indian Blue (USA) [Henny Hughes – Gambler’s Passion (Prospectors Gamble)] 4 (16/5/4/4) – Ikuyasu Kurakane (Seoul)
2nd in the Ttukseom Cup, she came back out and won last time over a tough class 1 field. She’ll be looking to go past the frontrunners in the home straight but can’t give Gamdonguibada such a head start this time. A chance.

11. Kalma (USA) [Dehere – Leeward Passage (Captain Bodgit)] 5 (20/4/1/3) – Kim Hyun Joong (Busan)
Bart Rice lets Kalma take her chance again but there’s little in her recent form to suggest she has any chance here. She’s only monied once in 6 tries at class 1.

12. Joy Lucky (KOR) [Vicar – Proper Gun (Prosper Fager)] 4 (14/10/1/0) – Moon Jung Kyun (Seoul)
2nd to Secret Whisper on her only previous visit to Busan but was poor in the Ttukseom Cup. She bounced back to win the Owners’ Trophy in April and was an impressive class 1 winner last month. She’ll be at the front but can she hold off Gamdonguibada? The suspended Seo Seung Un is replaced by moon Jung Kyun in the saddle.

13. Seungni Laser (KOR) [Menifee – First Base (Grand Slam)] 4 (12/7/0/0) – Kim Yong Geun (Busan)
Bart Rice’s better chance is an intriguing prospect who comes into the race off the back of 4 straight wins. Likes to close from just off the pace but is untried at a mile. Her only starts at 1500M have met with failure there is a question mark as to whether she will stay – but that was last year under a different trainer. If she does stay, she’ll be dangerous, especially if the leaders race themselves out of contention.

14. Black Dia (KOR) [Vicar – Blossom Again (Awesome Again)] 5 (25/5/4/1) – Song Keong Yun (Busan)
A closer who has quietly made her way to class 1. A mile has proved slightly beyond her to date and this could be her weakness here too.

15. Seungbu Sinhwa (USA) [Bluegrass Cat – Island Rhythm (Skip Trial)] 4 (19/0/3/4) – Park Si Cheon (Seoul)
Never won and as she is yet to graduate from class 3, that’s not likely to change here.

16. Sangnyu (USA) [Broken Vow – Midtown Miss (Yes It’s True)] 5 (22/5/3/3) – Bang Choon Sik (Seoul)
Well established at class 1 and another who has an outside chance to close late for a place if the pacesetters blow themselves out early.