Racing Previews

Eoma Eoma, Beolmaui Star, Ssonsal Face-Off in Sprinters’ Final Showdown of 2023

The first eight local horses home in September’s international Korea Sprint will reassemble on Sunday afternoon at Busan Racecourse among a full field of sixteen going a furlong further in the final big prize of the year for the speedsters, the Kookje Shinmun Trophy (1400M KOR-G3). While nothing could trouble Japanese star Remake in the Sprint, runner-up Beolmaui Star will take his place in the line up as will 2022 Korea Sprint winner Eoma Eoma and SROA Chairman’s Trophy victor Ssonsal.

Eoma Eoma won the Kookje Shinmun in 2022 (Pic: KRA)

EOMA EOMA is the defending champion, having won last year’s Kookje Shinmun shortly after his Korea Sprint win, and also holds victories in similar Group races, the SBS Sports Sprint and Busan Ilbo Sprint. He was 5th under a conservative ride when attempting to defend his Korea Sprint crown on September 10th, a full ten-lengths behind winner Remake and six behind Beolmaui Star, who he faces again. Antonio Da Silva climbs aboard for the first time and given their respective draws, plenty will be expecting Eoma Eoma to overturn the form at a distance over which he is the track record holder at Seoul.

BEOLMAUI STAR was the standout local in the Korea Sprint. Under bold tactics by jockey Seo Seung-un he overcame gate ten to lead and while there was nothing he could do to repel Remake, who went on to win by four-lengths, he held off the challenge of Goldolphin Mile and Saudi 1351 Turf Sprint winner Bathrat Leon by a comfortable margin with Hong Kong’s Duke Wai and Eoma Eoma further back down the track. He is still only four-years-old and has trialled very well since the Korea Sprint. He is done no favours by the draw as he won’t get an easy lead but heh overcame gate thirteen in the Korea Sprint, and with an additional furlong, there is plenty of time before they reach the bend for him to find position.

Beolmaui Star (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

SSONSAL had a strong summer with 3rd places in the Busan Ilbo and SBS Sports Sprints followed by a victory in the SROA Chairman’s Sprint when as is his style, he arrived late with a last gasp burst of speed to deny Raon First and Eoma Eoma. That led him to be sent off fourth in the betting for the Korea Sprint and while he ultimately came home in 8th place, it wasn’t a bad run. A return to 1400M can suit.

Plenty of other big names fill out the field. Grand old galloper MORFHIS may have lost a yard of pace since his two SBS Sports Sprint wins, but he remains competitive and was 8th in the Korea Sprint. He is another for who the step back up to 1400M can suit and will be running on late. DAEHAN JILJU was 6th in the Korea Sprint and very nearly won this race last year before being overhauled by Eoma Eoma in the shadow of the post.  He certainly loves the 1400M with six wins and two runner-up finishes from eight attempts at it.

CALM STRONG, RAON TAP MAN and BLACK MUSK finished 9th to 11th in the Korea Sprint and all return too. Calm Strong in particular followed up the Sprint with an eye-catching class 1 win over a mile in October when she came close to Blue Chipper’s track record for that distance. She draws much better than she did in the Sprint and receives the filly and mare allowance. Among the eight who didn’t go in the Sprint, the three-year-old filly GANGSEO GIANT looks the most intriguing.

The Kookje Shinmun Trophy is race 5 on the 6-race card at Busan on Sunday with a local post time of 15:45. There are also 11 races at Seoul on the day.

SELECTIONS: (3) Eoma Eoma (16) Beolmaui Star (6) Ssonsal (4) Calm Strong

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 11)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Moon Se-young is aboard a lot of good chances on Saturday, including Youngyoung Socks, who he won September’s Gold Circle Trophy on (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener. (7) EXCELLENT MATTA beat three of these on her way to 3rd place at this distance on October 14th when on pace throughout. That followed a previous runner-up finish at 1000M. She did get sent back to trial for laying in throughout he home straight, but she came through that in good order at the end of last month and she will be the favourite here. The biggest threat could come from one of the two debut-makers. (6) URIGA was an on-pace 2nd in her trial, stopping the clock in a fair time and if she brings that form to the races, she can go close. (3) LOVE MUNMAK was 4th in that October 14th race, just half a length behind Excellent Matta and can be in the finish again. (4) CHAMJOEUN INYEON and (2) MISS FINAL are others in the frame.

Selections(7) Excellent Matta (6) Uriga (3) Love Munmak (4) Chamjoeun Inyeon
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

The second division of the juvenile filly maiden. (8) GEUMAK STAR comes in having taken part in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy last month. She finished down the field behind the likes of Nice Time and Lala K, but she got her chance there courtesy of her previous 2nd over 1000M on September 10th. Returning to significantly shallower waters today, she should be too good. (6) STUNNING CHAMP ran well on debut for 5th, coming from well off the pace over 1000M. She should have come on for that run and the increased trip here can suit. (5) ANYANG TSUNAMI was slow on debut but showed improvement second-up when racing on pace over 1200M and just getting tired at the end. If she can continue on the same upwards trajectory, then she can be in the place hunt here. (2) B.K. BELLE and (3) SPARK THUNDER others to consider.

Selections(8) Geumak Star (6) Stunning Champ (5) Anyang Tsunami (2) B.K. Belle
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A regular maiden here but another warm favourite and Moon Se-young is aboard again. This time it’s (1) PLAN B who comes in off a very close 2nd place at this distance on October 14th when coming from off the pace and almost getting up. She comes into a better gate, and she should be too good. Should you prefer to have a plan b, then it may be (6) GANGCHEOL BUDAE. He has hinted at ability in his latest two when unlike in previous efforts, he has been ridden much handier. In this company he can be on pace and can be in this a long way. (8) FIGHTING K debuted all the way back in November of last year, finishing midfield and then wasn’t seen again. He finally returns fifty-one weeks later, gelded, and having looked good in an October trial. He couldn’t get a softer race to return in and he has to be considered. (9) NAEGILUI CAPTAIN has a 2nd place on his record and that is enough to put him in the minor frame along with (7) JEONGSEONG VICE.

Selections(1) Plan B (6) Gangcheol Budae (8) Fighting K (9) Naegilui Captain
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens and we may have the hottest favourite yet. (4) RAON TAP PLAY won his trial before running 2nd on debut over 1200M on October 15th, settling back and finishing well. He should have come on from that and in this company and from this gate may well be ridden hand like he was in his trial. He should win. (9) SAHARAMOND ran 3rd on debut in September over 1000M before finishing 4th in that October 15th race. He draws wide again but shapes as a potential danger. So too (7) STORM GUY, who got sent back to trial after a lacklustre August debut but looked much better on his return on October 8th when an on pace 3rd. He has the quickest start and can lead here. (1) MY KHAN and debut-maker (2) LEGEND TANSAENG are others to consider.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 10)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener. After winning a late August trial, (6) WORLD DRAGON debuted over 1200M on October 8th and beat three of today’s rivals when a front-running 3rd in a decent time. He should have come on for the run, he’ll be on pace again, and he can win. Debut-maker (5) VALHALLA led all the way in his trial, stopping the clock in a good time. It was only last Saturday so as long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can go well first-up. (4) BINNANEUNGIL has two 4th places and a 2nd in three outings to date. Last time out he led over 1400M before fading late and he should be in the mix here. (8) SUCCESS BAEKPA was 4th behind World Dragon in that October 8th race and can get close again. (3) BROWN FALCON another seemingly on the right trajectory.

Selections(6) World Dragon (5) Valhalla (4) Binnaneungil (8) Success Baekpa
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Standard maiden here. (5) STRIKE ZONE has a 4th, a 3rd, and a 2nd from three starts so far with that latter being his most recent on October 27th when on pace throughout before going down to a good winner. He comes up to 1300M for the first time, he should be on pace again, and he can go one better again. (7) MOST RAPID led for the first tie on October 13th over 1400M, ultimately staying on for 2nd. He ran 5th on a previous try at this distance and should be in the mix today. (1) DOCTOR CAPTAIN overcame gate eleven to run a fair 5th in a decent time at 1200M three weeks ago. He draws much better today, and a similar run can see him in the finish this time. (8) DORAON ZETTA and (9) GEUMSON CLASS others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(5) Strike Zone (7) Most Rapid (1) Doctor Captain (8) Doraon Zetta
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies. (7) ALICE MARINE has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two with a 3rd and a 4th, both at this distance in both in fair times having been ridden forward. She’ll be on or close to the pace here, Seo Seung-un climbs on, and she has as good a chance as any. The main danger is (5) ROAD STAR. Another front-runner, she has posted consistent times at 1000M and then at 1200M. She’ll be competing for the lead from the start and will be in this a long way. (6) SMART SMILE was a much-improved 3rd at start number two on over this distance on October 20th when settling back and running on and she can build on that here. (10) PERFECT WINNER and (9) CHOEGANG WEEK among others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Alice Marine (5) Road Star (6) Smart Smile (10) Perfect Winner
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(6) WONDERFUL IMPACT has finished between 3rd and 5th on no fewer than six occasions from ten starts including her last start 4th over this distance when settling just behind the speed and finishing off well. Antonio Da Silva, in town to ride in Sunday’s Group race, is aboard and in this company, she can win. She’ll be favourite, ahead of (3) DAEHO PREDATOR, who despite only just scarping through a qualifying trial debuted well in late September, settling back and running on for 5th over this trip. He should have benefitted from the experience and can get closer this time. (1) CHEONSU SIDAE pulled out a career best 4th last time out at big odds and coming from well off the pace and beating a couple of these. An apprentice keeps the weight down and a repeat or better isn’t impossible. (5) MIRACULUM and (4) AQUARIUS others in the placing frame.

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Juvenile Series Part 2 Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 5)

The Juvenile Series continues at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday afternoon with the two tracks having their final separate races before they come together for the Breeders’ Cup finale in December. Baekduui Kkum will be hot favourite for the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy at Busan having won both the Rookie Stakes and Areumdaun Jilju Stakes, while at Seoul, with the first two home in the Monhwa Ilbo Trophy not in attendance, Lala K will be favoured to get back to winning ways. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here are the previews:

Lala K will be expected to return to winning ways at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener with all but one racing for the first time. (3) WONDERFUL PASS gets the nod having won her trial in a fair time on October 20th when racing handy throughout. She draws nicely here and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (9) NESSUN DORMA came through the same trial, finishing 2nd lest than a length in arrears. She had led for much of the way around so she has to contend with a slightly wide draw here, but she should be competitive. (7) RAON PANORAMA went through two trials and showed a bit more maturity in the second of them when a close 3rd in an average time. That’s enough to put her in contention here. (6) SHACKLE POINT and (2) BRGHT HANSEN others who hinted at ability in their respective heats.

Selections(3) Wonderful Pass (9) Nessun Dorma (7) Raon Panorama (6) Shackle Point
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) WINNER DRAGON looks the one to beat here. He has a 2nd place to his name and comes in off a last start 3rd over this distance on October 7th when he settled midfield and ran on, not going down by much. He has the fastest time among these for the distance by some margin and may prove hard to beat this time. (8) HAKSAN MACHO has shown steady progress across three starts so far, most recently 4th over this distance on October 7th when settling right back and running on. He has a good finish on him and can run into some money again. (10) HEY MAMA has a couple of 3rd places in her recent form and with Johan climbing aboard today can aim for the places. (11) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG and newcomer (4) DREAM CARD are others who could potentially go close.

Selections(3) Winner Dragon (8) Haksan Macho (10) Hey Mama (11) Seongsil Yeongung
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here (7) STARTER was sent off as favourite on debut over 1000M on October 7th and duly obliged, leading every step of the way and crossing the line three-lengths to the good in a quick time. She comes up in both class and distance today, but neither should be an issue, and in restricted filly and mare company, she will be strongly favoured to maintain her 100% record. (11) TAEPYEONG FIGHTER got her maiden two starts back over this distance before running 2nd on her first try at this class on October 9th. She likes to race handy so she has to deal with the wide draw as well as an additional 3kg on her back, but she can go close again. (4) AL SIMON has been working her way back into form in recent efforts and there is no reason why she can’t come off the pace to at least match her last starts 3rd. (10) SMART SOCKS and (3) HAPPY PLAY others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Starter (11) Taepyeong Fighter (4) Al Simon (10) Smart Socks
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) CHARMING BEST took a couple of goes to find his feet but has looked to be figuring things out in his latest two with a 4th and most recently a 2nd place over this distance. Last time out he led for much of the way and stopped the clock in a time significantly quicker than any of today’s rivals have managed. He draws well and should win. (7) KING FIGHTER too comes in off a good 2nd place at this distance on October 6th when he led until the closing stages. An apprentice keeps the weight down and he should be on pace and in this a long way once more. (6) WONDERFUL ONE raced well for 3rd over 1300M two weeks ago. He makes a quick return here and can be in the finish again. (8) LAND BANK and (11) COLONEL FLYING are among plenty of other placing chances.

Selections(3) Charming Best (7) King Fighter (6) Wonderful One (8) Land Bank
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

The favourite here will be (4) ONE SPEAR. He got his maiden win two starts back over 1400M and then ran a strong 3rd over this class and distance on October 7th when settling right back and then finishing off smoothly.  He draws slightly better today to be ridden perhaps in midfield and he can use his strong finish to return to the winner’s circle. (8) ARGO MUJEOK comes back in trip after middling efforts at slightly further. The last time he raced at 1300M he won, albeit at class 6, and he can be a danger here. (10) EINSPANNER hasn’t quite lived up to his impressive debut but comes in off a front-running 3rd place over 1200M and will probably cross and attempt to lead again. If he can find a forward position and save some energy, then he can be in this a long way. (3) NAOL SKY and (11) CHADOL RUN other possibles.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 4)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens to begin with. (9) WORLD SHANNONS was a trial winner in September before running 3rd on debut over 1000M on October 7th when on pace throughout. He should have come on for that run and has every chance here. The most experienced runner is (6) SMART CLAIR. He has raced five times, finishing between 3rd and 5th on every occasion. That 3rd was on his latest over this distance on October 8th when handy throughout and he should be aiming for a better finish today. (3) CHEONGRYANGSAN is another who ran 3rd on debut, in his case over 1000M on October 7th. He draws nicely to be on pace again and is another who with some natural improvement can be a danger. (4) GREAT STORM and (1) SEOUL DOLPUNG are others with the potential to improve.

Selections(9) World Shannons (6) Smart Clair (3) Cheongryangsan (4) Great Storm
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens. (5) GLOBAL CODIE will be a warm favourite having trialled well and then run 4th on debut over 1000M on October 7th when handy throughout. He should have benefitted from the experience, the additional furlong can suit, and he won’t need to improve much on that run to win here. (10) SEOCHEON LION has raced twice, finishing 5th and 4th, most recently when on pace at this distance. The draw isn’t ideal, but he should be going close again. There are three debut-makers and of them (9) MAX GOLD looks the best. He settled midfield in his trial before running through the line well and this is a nice race to debut in. (2) SPALTA and (4) CROQUIS others with the potential to improve.

Selections(5) Global Codie (10) Seocheon Lion (9) Max Gold (2) Spalta
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies here. (10) MENI CHARM enters off a decent 3rd over this distance on October 14th when on pace and briefly leading in the straight. She may need a touch of luck at the start but if she can get to a forward position, she can make it thirteenth time lucky. (6) NEMO SPIRIT looks to be the main danger. She’s been knocking at the door in recent starts including a 3rd place at this distance back in August. She can get a bit far back in her races but if she can be in contention in the straight then she has a chance. (3) RAON SPIKE returned to action on September after almost a year out. She should have benefited from the run and can improve here. (4) MARUBYEOL and (7) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL others in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Meni Charm (6) Nemo Spirit (3) Raon Spike (4) Marubyeol
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(8) LAFAYETTE is the one to beat here. He comes in off two 4th places and a 3rd from his latest two, most recently over 1300M on October 9th when settling midfield and running on. There isn’t much in the way of early speed in this race so today, he can be expected to be ridden on pace and he can go all the way. (6) RAON JUMP has a 3rd and a 2nd in her record. She has a strong finish on her and the step up to 1400M can suit. (3) SANGIM DAEPYO and (9) HEUIMANGUI CHANGA come in having run 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced one another at this distance on October 8th. It wasn’t a quick race, and both were sent off at big odds, but both can be competitive again in this company. (1) LAST PITCH another who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) Lafayette (6) Raon Jump (3) Sangim Daepyo (9) Heuimangui Changa
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start2, 8, 10, 11

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

(5) ILDONG BAKSU has never won or even finished 2nd but she does seem to love coming 3rd, something she has done on five out of six occasions. She generally likes to lead and from a good gate, could get quite an easy run to the front. In this company, it could be her day. If she once more finds a couple too quick, then among the leading contenders is (6) ORAEDAHAMKKE. He made the breakthrough over 1200M at start number three before finishing a beaten favourite on his first try at this level on October 9th. He has proven to have a fast finish and he can be a danger here. (3) SMART CAT ran out a good winner over 1200M on October 8th, settling midfield and running on. He comes up in class and slightly in trip here but should be equal to both. (10) GEUMBIT GANGHO and (7) MAGIC MOCCASIN others in the hunt.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 3)

November’s racing kicks off on Friday at Busan with 9 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (5) SEKWANG CHOEGANG, who after a positive trial ran well for 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 6th, settling back and finishing off well. He should have improved for the run and the additional furlong looks set to suit. (10) BIG MORE is the pick of the newcomers. He led for most of the way around in his trial, ultimately finishing 2nd and stopping the clock in a time faster than Sekwang Choegang posted in his actual race. He draws a touch wide for comfort here but if he can bring that form to the races, he will be a big danger. (3) FANTASTIC HUMOR came through the same trial, finishing 3rd, albeit a good distance behind Big More, and can go well first up. (8) DAEJIUIYEOJEONSA debuted well for 4th place in a quick race at 1000M in September and can build on that here. (11) CONCORD PARK was an improved 3rd over 1400M at his latest start and looks a good shout for minor money here.

Selections(5) Sekwang Choegang (10) Big More (3) Fantastic Humor (8) Daejiuiyeojeonsa
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies. (7) RUNNING TREE trialled up fast in August before finishing 6th on debut over this distance on September 22nd having shown on pace. She should have come on for that experience, Seo Seung-un climbs up, and she looks the one to beat here. (3) SSING GA is the only three-year-old and the only one with a top-two finish to her name. That came two starts back at 1300M when ridden handy. She followed it up with a fair 4th last time out and from a nice gate, she can sit behind the speed and challenge late here. (9) MAGIC ELEVEN comes in off front-running 3rd place in a similar filly race at this distance on October 6th. She was well beaten by a good winner but only narrowly beaten out of 2nd and she can go close again. (1) THE BIG SHOT and (4) LOLLY are others in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Running Tree (3) Ssing Ga (9) Magic Eleven (1) The Big Shot
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) ACE GOOD JOB is the pick here. She ran well on debut but then seemingly lost her way before figuring things out again in her latest two when she was 2nd and 4th, both over 1200M. She finished off well both times and the step up to 1400M can see her coming home on top today. (4) WONDERFUL CHACHA enters off a runner-up finish over this distance on September 10th when ridden much further forward than usual. He’s drawn well for similar tactics today and looks a solid placing chance again. (9) JANGSAN LEMON ran like the proverbial lemon when favourite on debut in March but followed it up with a 2nd and 4th. He hasn’t raced since June but looked well when 3rd in an October trial and he should be competitive here. (3) TAEPUNGUI CHUKJE also returns after a lengthy absence and will need to be taken on trust although he had an easy trial last Saturday. (10) CAPTAIN CHARLIE another in the hunt.

Selections(5) Ace Good Job (4) Wonderful Chacha (9) Jangsan Lemon (3) Taepungui Chukje
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

An also-ran in the Rookie Stakes, (4) BLACK SPRING bounced back to get his maiden win at start number three over 1200M on October 8th, settling handy and finishing off well. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be a problem and he can win again here. (9) BORN DIA was a winner on debut in July over 1000M before also getting her chance in the Rookie Stakes. She too was an also-ran, but she finished ahead of Black Spring. She then ran 6th of eight in the Listed Areumdaun Jilju Stakes for juveniles. She returns to shallower waters here and can get close. (7) KING ANYDAY was a maiden winner at 1400M in July and while a try at a mile didn’t go well, he has found his feet at this level with a 3rd and a 4th over 1200M in his latest two. He can be on pace and in this a long way. (8) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE and (6) UNMATCHED other potential contenders for the minors.

Selections(4) Black Spring (9) Born Dia (7) King Anyday (8) Choegang Mujigae
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

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

No fewer than four of these come up in class following last start maiden wins and they will be at the top of the market here. Favourite will be (6) TEAM PERFECT, who ran 3rd on debut over 1000M at the start of September before winning at start number two at this distance on October 6th when making all. The margin was a dominant one and she won’t need to improve much to win again. (2) LAST DRAGON was sent off as favourite on debut having impressed in a trial and he duly obliged despite being slow out of the gate and having to come from behind over 1000M. He should have matured because of that and can get close again with the extra furlong perhaps being beneficial. (1) OUR DESTINY won her trial and won her debut on October 6th, leading all the way over 1000M. It wasn’t a fast time, but she draws well here and can measure up. (7) GLORY CROWN ran in the Rookie Stakes and came out of it to score his maiden win over this distance on October 6th, coming from off the pace. He can challenge late here. Among those with prior experience at this level, (8) DAHAMKKEDALLIJA is the best.

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Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (October 29)

The best filly or mare in Korea returns to action on Sunday as Jeulgeounyeojeong, the Triple Tiara winner, lines up for the second leg of the Queens’ Tour fall and winter in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Busan on Sunday afternoon. The big race is race 5 of a 6-race card at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong should be too good again on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens and plenty look like they have a win in them. (1) GEUMAK JINJU has a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts so far, both over 1000M in good times and racing on pace. He draws very nicely here, the additional furlong shouldn’t be a problem, and he can win. (6) MULLEBANGA comes in off a strong 3rd place over this distance on September 23rd when settling midfield and running on. It was a decent time, and a similar performance would put him in the finish again. (8) YONGAM MARENGO similarly enters following a good 3rd place, in his case over 1000M on September 16th. He was doing his best work late and the additional furlong can suit. (9) FINAL GO and (4) MAGIC STRONG are among plenty of others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(1) Geumak Jinju (6) Mullebanga (8) Yongam Marengo (9) Final Go
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) SUPER ONE will be hot favourite in this ordinary maiden. He’s shown steady improvement across his latest couple of starts with a 5th and a 4th, the latter at this distance on September 23rd when racing much handier than in his previous starts. From a good gate he should so the same here and is the one to beat. (10) MAX MA enters off back-to-back 4th places in the summer, leading both times. He has been back to trial since his latest outing and looked well. He draws a touch wide but if he can get on pace, he should go close. (6) AUSTIN LEADER has a 2nd place on his record over this distance and should be there or thereabouts again. (11) SHOUT KURO and (4) HEART K are others with the potential to improve.

Selections(2) Super One (10) Max Ma (6) Austin Leader (11) Shout Kuro
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(9) LONDON ACE ran out a class and distance winner on September 24th when settling just behind the pace and running on strongly. She comes up 2.5kg in the weights but has every chance of striking again. (6) RAON THE COBRA was a strong winner over this distance in May, making all and has subsequently run 5th in both starts at this level. He should be on pace here and shapes as a potential danger. (7) GEUMJEONSA settled midfield and then ran on to score a tight win on debut over 1000M on September 22nd. He comes up in class and in distance here but should have benefited from that run and with some natural improvement can be competitive. (1) MEOTJIN GIROK and (5) HIGH PARK among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(9) London Ace (6) Raon The Cobra (7) Geumjeonsa (1) Meotjin Girok
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but one racing for the first time. We’ll not dismiss the experience though, because (12) SHINE FOREST ran well on debut over 1000M on September 15th racing midfield and running on for 3rd in a quick time. With that in the tank, she may just be a bit further down the line than the rest of these and she goes on top. The pick of the first timers is (5) SAENAE HIT. She looked assured in her trial, running through the line well in a fair time, and the 1200M can suit first up. (11) ROADTOMOMENTUM beat a couple of these in her heat when crossing the line 4th in a decent time and with some natural improvement can be in the finish here. (4) FLEX DAY and (1) MOTHER WONDERFUL others who caught the eye in qualification. 

Selections(12) Shine Forest (5) Saenae Hit (11) Roadtomementum (4) Flex Day
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

After twelve tries and plenty of near misses, it’s about time that (5) DAEHEUNG CLASS got his maiden win. He has placed in each of his last seven races, the five most recent being at this class. Moon Se-young climbs on for the first time and it should finally be his day. Should he mange to find one too quick yet again, then it might be (11) GLADIUS. A good winner on debut over 1000M, she ran a very close 2nd on her fist try at this class over 1200M on September 17th. She draws a touch wide, but she should have plenty of scope for more development and she can be a big danger here. (2) STAND BY ME got his sole win at this distance and enter off a fair 4th over 1400M last time out. He races for the first time since July so comes in fresh and in with a shout. (10) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG and (1) DORIPO others to keep safe.

Selections(5) Daeheung Class (11) Gladius (2) Stand By Me (10) Challanhan Pokpung
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) GANGSEO BULPAE will be hot favourite in this maiden. She ran a close 2nd on debut in June having led for most of the way before being an on-pace 3rd on her return three months later in September. Both were at 1200M and both times she was the beaten favourite, but she should strip fitter for the shorter layoff this time and she can win here. (4) YONGBI STAR is the main danger. She enters off a strong 3rd place finish over 1300M when she was ridden much further forward than her previous starts. Expect her to drop in handy here and challenge late. (9) HI LEGEND ran a fair 5th on debut over 1000M earlier this month having taken an age to get into top gear. The extended trip should suit, and he can get closer this time. (8) DOCTOR LICA and (6) GREAT BOY looks to be the other placing chances.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 28)

There are 11 Saturday races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Autumn colours are out at the track (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (7) PUNGUNJIMA, who after a promising trial, ran 2nd on debut over 1000M on September 23rd.  He stopped the clock in a good time and with some natural improvement can be the one to beat here. (3) BLACK BELT dead-heated for 3rd on debut over 1000M. That was back in July so he comes in fresh after sixteen weeks off and can be a contender here. (6) GOLDBERG ran 3rd behind Pungunjima on debut last month having led for much of the way around. She’ll be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (2) VICAR NAREUMA and trial winner (4) GEUMAK DIA are others in the hunt. 

Selections(7) Pungunjima (3) Black Belt (6) Goldberg (2) Vicar Nareuma
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens, this time with six of the twelve making their racecourse debuts. Again, we will side with experience and there are two standouts. (7) GIANT FORCE debuted over this distance on September 10th and ran well, racing handy and finishing 4th in a decent time. She won’t need to improve much on that to go close here. (3) CUPID MIR was also 4th on his debut. That came over 1000M on September 2nd when he settled back and ran on very nicely. The step up in trip should suit and he can be a big danger. (11) KNIGHT CHARM has raced twice already, positing a 5th and a 4th and should go close again. (9) SAMAEBEONJJEOK and newcomer (10) MYEONGSEONG CHUKJE are others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Giant Force (3) Cupid Mir (11) Knight Charm (9) Samaebeonjjeok
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Maiden juvenile fillies here. (8) CHADOL DIA has raced twice for a 2nd and a 3rd at 1000M and 1200M. She has been on pace both times and should do the same again here and she has an excellent chance to make the breakthrough. (3) SEIRENE did nothing on debut but has run well for 2nd and 3rd in two starts since, both at this distance. She draws nicely to settle just behind the speed and run on here and the presence of Moon Se-young may mean that she starts as the betting favourite. The form falls away significantly after those two but (6) HAMPYEONG JANGMI has hinted at ability across four starts so far and is a possible pacesetter. (5) JERAQUEEN and (9) STAR CHANGER are others in the hunt.

Selections(8) Chadol Dia (3) Seirene (6) Hampyeong Jangmi (5) Jeraqueen
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A very modest maiden and (10) MENI SHARK will be favourite. We’ll need to draw a line through her latest over this distance on October 9th when having been prominent throughout, she weakened late, but her form prior to that was superior to anything else here and she can be given another chance. (9) MACH YEOJE improved significantly to run 4th at start number two on September 24th, settling back and running on. A similar effort will see her in the finish here. It would be a surprise if those two don’t fill out the quinella, but (5) TAENGGEURI hinted at improvement on his latest outing. He tends to get a bit far back in his races, but he should pass plenty late here. (7) GEOMOON and (11) TES JOY others in the minor money hunt.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 27)

Fillies and mares will take centre-stage this weekend as the Queens’ Tour resumes with the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup at Busan on Sunday. The south-coast track kicks off the action on Friday with a 9-race card from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong will be in action on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (6) HWANGGEUMSEONG has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M, racing close to the pace both times. He draws well to be on the speed again and he can make it third time lucky. (3) STRIKE ZONE has a 4th and a 3rd from his two previous outings. The 3rd came over this trip on September 22nd when he settled back and finished off very well. He comes into a much better gate today and he can win. (7) BLACK FALCON went through a couple of trials and then ran fairly for a midfield finish on debut. He can improve here. (11) LIGHT BROWN was slowly away and well back on debut but much improved on her second start on September 10th when 3rd over this distance and racing on pace. She isn’t done any favours by the draw here, but she can be competitive. Among the first timers, (10) BEAT DRAGON looks the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(6) Hwanggeumseong (3) Strike Zone (7) Black Falcon (11) Light Brown
Next Best10, 12
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Two standouts here. (6) SEVEN DRAGON has been sent off at long odds-on in both start so far and has come up short in 3rd over 1000M on debut and then 4th over this distance on September 8th when he led for much of the way around. His times have been good, he should be on pace again and he can get it right at the third time of asking. (8) WONDERFUL CHEROKEE was sent off at big odds, on debut on September 22nd but ran a strong 2nd over this distance having been on pace throughout. He should have derived benefit from the experience, and he has every chance here.  (10) TRICKSTER did nothing on debut all the way back in March but trialled up nicely earlier this month and can be a different prospect this time around. (9) ANOTHER ONE and (2) CHEOGANG WEEK other minor money chances.

Selections(6) Seven Dragon (8) Wonderful Cherokee (10) Trickster (9) Another One
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A very modest maiden. (8) SINCHEON FIRST has a pair of 4th places among three starts so far, most recently at this distance on September 22nd when handy throughout. He can be ridden similarly here and has as much chance as any. (1) HAPPY BRIANNA enters off her best finish to date when 2nd in an all-filly race on October 6th. She settled right back that day before running on and while she was well beaten by a good winner, a similar run will see her firmly in the mix here. (5) UNJU TWO HEARTS showed solid improvement when 2nd at start number two back in August. She comes in here fresh after eleven weeks off and should be on pace. (11) NONSTOP DUTY and (4) WIDAEHAN SEONTAEK are the other placing contenders.

Selections(8) Sincheon First (1) Happy Brianna (5) Unju Two Hearts (11) Nonstop Duty
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(1) SINHAN GAMBLE will be a warm favourite here. That’s based on his last start 2nd on October 8th when, as has been his style, he went right back but then ran on strongly and was only narrowly denied the win. Three of today’s rivals were behind him and he should be beating all of them here. (2) RUN TO KING enters off a fair 4th place at this distance on September 24th. He comes into a better gate today and can aim to better that finish. (4) QUEEN OF JOY returned from five months out to run 5th of twelve over 1300M on September 22nd. She should strip fitter for that run and the step up in trip can suit. (10) ANY SINGS and (7) ROCKS are among others who can be in the hunt for the minor money.  

Selections(1) Sinhan Gamble (2) Run To King (4) Queen Of Joy (10) Any Sings
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) STAR DAERO was a winner on debut over 1000M on September 1st when settling handy and running on very well. He comes up in class and significantly in trip, but neither should be an issue and he can win again. (6) BEST CHAMP got his maiden win over this distance on September 15th, settling midfield before being ridden up to the pace and then running on. He is up in class here, but the extended trip can suit, and he can measure up. (9) HWANG YO remains a maiden but has never finished outside of the top-three. That includes his latest on October 6th when on pace and 2nd over 1200M at this class. He remains lightly weighted and should be there or thereabouts again. (8) RISE THE THRONE was an emphatic maiden winner last time out and comes up in class with the potential to measure up. (10) FABULOUS BEATER is the other logical placing chance.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (October 22)

It’s a rare Stakes race free Sunday but there is still plenty of action at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00, and Busan with 6 from 11:50 to 16.35. Here are the previews:

Yongam Boss – one of several contenders in an interesting class 1 finale at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported juveniles (and one southern hemisphere three-year-old) here. The most experienced, with three starts to her name already, is (3) UWARYUNG. She hasn’t finished outside the top four and has run consistently good times. From a good draw, in this company she should be on or close to the speed and she can make the breakthrough here. (10) OHRA KHAN beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over 1200M on debut when starting slowly but running on well. He should have derived benefit from that experience and can match or better today. (1) WHIZ RUNNER was 6th in that race on what was his debut too. He rana fast time at this distance in his trial and can improve today. There are four first-time starters and of them, (9) VELOX BOY and (6) TRAUM QUEEN look the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(3) Uwaryung (10) Ohra Khan (1) Whiz Runner (9) Velox Boy
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with all tackling the 1300M for the first time. (1) YEONGWON GIANT was a much-improved 2nd at start number three on September 16th over 1200M when he raced further forward than he had done previously and finished off well. He beat several of today’s rivals in the proves and from a great draw, he can go one better today. (4) LUCKY PARTY was 4th in that race having been sent off as favourite following a strong 3rd place on debut. He’ll be on pace again here and can be given another chance. (9) PURGE KING came home in 3rd place on September 16th. That continued the steady progress that he has made since his debut, and he is another who should be in with a shout. As for those who didn’t go in the September 16th race, (6) SEOUL CHOEGANGJA looks the best. He comes in off a solid 3rd place in a good time at 1200M a month ago and Moon Se-young climbing on will tempt plenty. Newcomer (3) NAEGILUIKING another to keep an eye on.

Selections(1) Yeongwon Giant (4) Lucky Party (9) Purge King (6) Seoul Choegangja
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens. (2) EUNPA SARANG has a 3rd and two 5th place finishes from three starts to date and has posted a couple of very good times. He has got a bit far back in his races so far but he finishes off very well and if he is in striking distance at the top of the straight, he could be the one to beat. He will need to get past (4) CHEONHAENGCHAT. She has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record, both times racing on pace. She draws well to get forward here and should be in this a very long way. There are a couple of first-time starters and (6) RUBY PORT looked good in her trial, leading almost the entire way around and crossing the line a close 2nd. She can go well first up. (9) OSONGEUI BYEOL and (7) DONGJIN TEUKGEUP are potential improvers.

Selections(2) Eunpa Sarang (4) Cheonhaengchat (6) Ruby Port (9) Osongeui Byeol
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens and (4) FLYING KHAN will begin as hot favourite. After a good trial, he overcame gate ten on debut to run 3rd over this distance in a quick time. He comes into a much better gate today and should get an easier run to the front. He will take some beating. (1) AUTUMN BREEZE was an improved 3rd at 1300M on September 17th, racing handy throughout. From the inside gate, she should be close to the pace here and can be competitive again. (2) ARA NURI made good progress on her second start, finishing 3rd over this distance in a good time. She can settle just behind the leaders here and finish strongly. (11) DOCTOR CAPTAIN looks to be on the right trajectory too and along with first time starter (7) HARVEST MOON, is another to consider for the places.

Selections(4) Flying Khan (1) Autumn Breeze (2) Ara Nuri (11) Doctor Captain
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) GOLDEN DRAGON remains a maiden after three starts but comes up in class here having secured back-to-back runner-up finishes over 1200M, both in quick times. He comes down 2kg in the weights, and from a good draw, he can make the breakthrough here. (1) MUNHAK CENTRAL got her maiden win at the seventh time of asking over 1200M on September 16th when she made all. She too comes up in class and while she only gets a 1kg weight drop, she draws well and can measure up in this company. (7) MY CENTER has placed at this class and distance and also ran a fair 6th in the Rookie Stakes at the end of August. He has consistently run good times and he should be in the mix again here. (5) DAONDI was very close 2nd to Munhak Central last time and accordingly joins her up in class with every chance of being competitive. (10) BEST CLONE another in the hunt.

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