Racing Previews

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 6)

After a week off, racing returns to the peninsula on Friday as the 2023 season gets underway at Busan. As there are just two weeks until another weekend off, there are lots of races and every one of them has a big field. Friday sees 10 races at Busan from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The 2023 Korean racing season kicks off with a series of maidens with the opener for three-year-olds. Following a fast trial, (10) ROCK AND ROLL was sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on November 20th. He was on pace throughout and while he could only manage 3rd, the time was good and with some natural improvement for the run, he could be hard to beat here. (5) POWER RIDE was slowly away on debut over 1200M on November 27th and loped along at the back resenting the kickback at one stage tailing the field by a full six-lengths. Once he found his rhythm, he did work home well though and with a better start and additional half furlong to play with, big improvement here is possible at a probable each-way price. (7) STORMY DAY ran a good 4th on debut and while he couldn’t follow-up on his second appearance, that alone is enough to put him in the place frame here. (6) CHOICE ROAD and (9) NINE FORCE ONE others to take into consideration.

Selections(10) Rock And Roll (5) Power Ride (7) Stormy Day (6) Choice Road
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10  

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies here and (8) GOHEUNG CLASS will be a warm favourite, having improved significantly at start number two over 1000M on December 9th when she almost made all, ultimately running a close 2nd. The step up in trip shouldn’t be a problem and she is the one to beat. There are three first-time starters and two of them looks to have very solid claims first-up. (11) GOLDEN WAVE doesn’t draw the best showed decent speed in her trial and with a touch of luck at the start to find a handy position, can go close. (1) DOCTOR TIFFANY put in a similar run in her trial and with no concerns about the draw from the inside gate, she too can put in a bold showing on debut. (2) U PING rana creditable 2nd place over 1000M on debut on December 2nd, beating plenty of today’s rivals when overcoming a wide draw to get on pace. She gets much luckier with the barrier this time and should have come on for the run. (9) DAEHO NARA, 3rd in that December race, another in the frame.

Selections(8) Goheung Class (11) Golden Wave (1) Doctor Tiffany (2) U Ping
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Two standouts here, one a first timer and one with two starts in the bank already. Without much conviction, we’ll side with experience in the shape of (1) ROAD TO DREAM. After running 2nd on debut, he ran a good 3rd second-up behind a winner who has gone on to win again at class 5 and a runner-up who has since got his own maiden victory. That form should stand up here, the additional furlong can suit, and he could win. The debut maker who shapes as the main danger and possible favourite is (6) WISE KING. He went through two trials running on pace in both and stopping the clock in a fast time in the second of them. He won’t need to improve much to go very close here. It’s hard to look past the pair of them for the quinella and indeed past (2) FAST FURY to complete the trio. He draws well to be on pace here and going on his 2nd two starts back in a fast time at this trip, he should have the beating of most here. (12) SOUTHERN JOY and the very experienced (not necessarily a good thing at this level) (4) WONDERFUL SMARTY are the other logical money hopes.

Selections(1) Road To Dream (6) Wise King (2) Fast Fury (12) Southern Joy
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 0

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s about time that (11) HWANGU FIGHTER broke through. He has raced five times finishing between 2nd and 4th on each occasion. His latest was his best when on November 25th he ran out a very close 2nd over 1200M having settled to the front of midfield and then run on. Any kind of top three finish will see him in class 5 next time and the step up to 1400M may be just what he needs to do it with a win. The main danger is probably (2) B. K. HUNTER.  He enters off a solid 3rd place over 1300M in November when settling right at the back of the field and then running on well. The 1400M can suit and he should be close. (4) WISE BOY has mixed his form to date, but he comes into a good gate today, has Franco climbing aboard, and he is another who can appreciate the slight step it up to 1400M. (1) QUEEN ROMANCE and (10) ECTON POWER are among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(11) Hwangu Fighter (2) B.K. Hunter (4) Wise Boy (1) Queen Romance
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Having finished up his juvenile season with 3rd place in the Listed Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy before running a creditable 6th of fourteen in the G2 Breeders’ Cup, it will be hard to go past (6) WORLD LEGEND here. His maiden win over 1200M was a dominant one and he has already proven he can compete at today’s distance. He’ll be going higher than this level. (1) BRAVO HAMYANG is yet to win but has five top-four finishes from seven starts. He was drawn wide over a mile in his latest outing and didn’t feature but back in trip, down in weight and into a better gate, he can be competitive here. (7) BUDDY BUDDY ran 5th behind World Legend in the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy. This is his first start since and just his fourth in total, and he can be in the mix today. (4) ADELE STELLA and the ultra-consistent but still yet to win (3) TITAN K are others to be considered.

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Christmas Day Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (December 25)

Every restaurant booked out in Seoul for Christmas? Plenty of space at the racecourse! Both thoroughbred tracks are in action as usual on Christmas Day with 11 races at Seoul and 6 in Busan. With racing taking a break next weekend, it’s the final meetings of 2022. Here are the previews:

Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy winner Raon Giant is in action in the concluding race of the year at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with ten of them fillies and all twelve racing for the very first time. Based on trials (11) CHILSAN DAEGYO will be a warm favourite. She made all in her heat, stopping the clock in a fast time and while she draws a touch wider than ideal, any improvement on that, will make her hard to beat. Another trial winner is (7) MUNHAK CENTRAL and she will be second favourite. She too led from gate to wire and while her time wasn’t as fast as that of Chilsan Daegyo (in a different heat on the same day), if she brings that form to the races, she can go well first up. (10) BARAMUI HYANGGI registered a time in her trial that while not on the fast side, suggested some potential and she will probably be the next in the market. (4) CHOEGANG NICE and (3) GREEN SHIELD others who can stamp their authority on debut.

Selections(11) Chilsan Daegyo (7) Munhak Central (10) Baramui Hyanggi (4) Choegang Nice
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Juvenile fillies but a rare race at class 4 level which gives the imports (imported horses must begin at class 4) a rare chance to compete. Four of these raced one another in a very similar event on October 30th and the winner that day was the appropriately named (3) RACE WINNER, who settled handy early and proved too strong. The weight conditions are the same, the gate if anything is better, and she can win again. (4) MIGHTY Q was 2nd in that October 30th race sitting on the heels of Race Winner until the closing stages. She has four lengths to overturn on that day’s winner but can get closer here.  (7) MEDICI WOLF has beaten a few of these across two starts so far and can accordingly be backed to do similar. Most significantly her latest outing saw her run 3rd in the Listed Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy and a similar run will put her firmly in the mix. (2) BS POWER and (9) LOTUSMIREU others who can go close in a competitive race.

Selections(3) Race Winner (4) Mighty Q (7) Medici Wolf (2) BS Power
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with two standouts. (4) BADEN BADEN was an on-pace 2nd on debut over 1000M on November 26th. She was well-beaten by the standout winner Phoenix Serve but it was an encouraging first outing nonetheless and from a good gate and under a light weight, she can be on pace here and has every chance. Her rival for favourite status is (9) BULGOM MADRE. After winning a trial in October, she debuted on December 12th and having sat in midfield in the early stages of the 1000M test, she ran on strong to just go down by a neck, traveling significantly quicker than the winner. The additional furlong should suit, and she has every chance.  There are four first time starters. Among them (7) NAOL JEONGSANG trialled pleasingly enough, running 2nd in a fair – if unspectacular – time. This is a nice race to debut in and he has a chance. Another debut-maker, (6) SMARTY FIGHTER, along with the second-up (2) LUCKY BOUNCE are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(4) Baden Baden (9) Bulgom Madre (7) Naol Jeongsang (6) Smarty Fighter
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with only two of the twelve having previous racing experience. They are going to be the two leading contenders in the market though as they both raced well. (4) BLUE MORE will be hot favourite. He was an on-pace 2nd on debut over this distance on November 27th, well beaten by a good winner but well clear of the rest. He draws well and with some natural improvement may take some beating. (12) BACKTOTHELEGEND also debuted over this distance in a different race on November 27th. He settled midfield and ran on for 3rd in a good time and is set to be the main danger here. As for the first-timer starters, a few did enough in trials to suggest they can compete for places. (9) KING OF THE YEAR was on pace in his heat and stopped the clock in a good time while (3) EVERY KING IJI and (7) SMILE KING also did enough to suggest they should be kept safe.

Selections(4) Blue More (12) Backtothelegend (9) King Of The Year (3) Every King Iji
Next Best 
Fast Start 

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile fillies and on the final day of a season which have seen the Raon Organisation dominate, the appropriately named (3) RAON EMPIRE will be hotly favoured to win. She was favourite on debut over 1000M on November 13th but while she overcame gate ten to get to an eventual handy position, she could only manage 3rd. She should have come on for that run and from a much better gate, will be hard to beat. Second favourite will be (9) HERO QUEEN She has gone right back on both starts so far but rallied very well at her latest to run 3rd over this distance eon November 26th. The wide draw won’t be a problem and she will be challenging late. (12) ANYANG POKKYEOKGI was an improved 3rd in a quick time at start number two over 1000M on November 12th and may appreciate the step up in trip here. (10) AMAN BAROWS and (11) TAURUS QUEEN join the ranks of those drawn wide to be in the hunt.

Selections(3) Raon Empire (9) Hero Queen (12) Anyang Pokkyeogi (10) Aman Barows
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Juvenile fillies with five of the eleven racing for the first time. Both (1) GANGSEO GIANT and (2) ALPHA THOR come out of the Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Trophy where Alpha Thor was the best of them in 5th to Gangseo Giant’s 8th. Coming back in trip, they look set to battle out the honours here with Gangseo Giant sightly favoured to overturn the form. (3) CARPE BABEL debuted in the Do Min Ilbo Trophy, which was always going to be a tough ask first-up and from a wide gate she wasn’t a factor. She had previously won a trial in good order and it’s fair to give her a fresh start today. Among the first-time starters, (7) JOY JUNMA and (10) MACH BULLET perhaps have the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(1) Gangseo Giant (2) Alpha Thor (3) Carpe Babel (7) Joy Junma
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

More maidens and it’s hard to look past (10) POWERFUL HWASEONG. That’s based on two of his latest three outings when 3rd and 2nd over this distance in times that were both faster than anything else here has achieved. He has a decent finish on him and doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw is of little concern, and at start number five, he looks ready to win. The main danger is (6) DONGBANG SAGI. She enters off an improved 2nd place over 1300M on November 27th when on pace throughout and beaten only by a good favourite. She’ll be on the speed again here and can be in this a long way. (4) CAMINO has only raced once, finishing midfield over 1300M on November 20th. He should strip fitter for that experience and can go closer today. (12) ULTRA GALAXY and (2) WINNER DRAGON are among others in the frame.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 24)

Christmas Eve racing is in Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Hangang Ace is back Seoul on Christmas Eve (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with nine of the twelve having prior racing experience. (2) YUKWAEHAN SARANG won a trial before running 2nd on debut over 1000M and then 4th when tried at this distance on November 27th, settling handy and running on well. She is the only one in the field to have tackled the 1200M before and it can stand her in good stead here. Probable favourite is (1) JEOMSUNI GO. Underwhelming in trials, she was sent off at big odds-on debut over 1000M on November 27th but defied that to run a very close 3rd in a very fast time having been slowly away and settling back. The additional furlong should suit, and she has a big chance here. (3) INDIANUI BYEOL has run well for 2nd and 3rd in two prior outings, both over the 1000M. Last time out he drew gate ten and settled midfield but from a better draw he can be expected to be on the speed here and in this a long way. (12) DAEWANG SOCKS and (6) ILDONG BAKSU offered signs of ability on their respective debuts and can feature here too.

Selections(2) Yukwaehan Sarang (1) Jeomsuni Go (3) Indianui Byeol (12) Daewang Socks
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens and (4) DAEBAK SOCKS looks to be the one to beat. He ran 4th on debut and then 3rd on his second start on November 27th when leading almost the entire way around over 1000M, stopping the clock in a quick time and only narrowly beaten. The extended trip should pose no problems and from another good draw, he can be on pace again and this time go all the way. (5) SUPER FINISH is the logical second pick. After an ordinary debut, he has run 2nd and 3rd over five-furlongs, showing on pace both times. He too draws well to get forward and he can be a danger. Neither (12) LEMON BLADE nor (10) ARGO MUJEOK are done any favours by the draw, but it may be less of a hindrance for Lemon Blade. Both enter off encouraging last start showings. (2) GHOST CHARM another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Daebak Socks (5) Super Finish (12) Lemon Blade (10) Argo Mujeok
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It took him a few goes to figure things out but (8) UCHEONGRYUNG has been knocking on the door in his latest three with two 4th places and a 2nd, all in good times at 1200M and 1300M. He settles handy or midfield and runs on, although with not much early speed here, he may well be on pace, and he won’t need to improve very much to win. (5) ARCH MEMORY has five top-five finishes from seven appearances although is yet to feature in the first-two. She comes in off a solid 3rd place over this distance on November 19th when she settled midfield and ran on strong and under the same weight and from a good gate, she can go close again. (12) MIR POINT has run solid times over 1000M and comes in off a last start runner-up finish on November 12th. It’s his first time at further than the minimum distance today and he can be competitive although may need a touch of luck from the start from the wide gate. (2) SEMYEONG CAPTAIN and (9) CHIMING BOY others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(8) Ucheongryung (5) Arch Memory (12) Mir Point (2) Semyeong Captain
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) GOLDEN HONOR has only finished outside of the top-four on one occasion and while a win remains elusive, he has put in some solid performances at this class and last time out, at this distance. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races, but he runs on well and so long s he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he is the one to beat here. (3) ECHO ZONE has only won once but has been a model of consistency with eight top-five finishes. He comes in off a good 2nd place over 1400M at this class and his win came over this distance. This isn’t impossible for him. (10) SINUI BANJEON has three runner-up finishes from five starts including her latest at this class and distance on November 27th. She is nicely weighted here, the draw shouldn’t be problematic, and she rates as a chance. (5) GEOLJAK DREAM and the up in class (8) MAUIWAY are others in the frame.

Selections(4) Golden Honor (3) Echo Zone (10) Sinui Banjeon (5) Geoljak Dream
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

(1) SOMETHING LOST was a winner on debut over 1000M in a fast time (beating Jeomsuni Go from race 1). He comes up in class and up in distance here but neither of those should be an issue and he will be a warm favourite to maintain his 100% record. Except on debut, (3) GLOBAL POWER hasn’t finished outside the top four. He enters having beaten a couple of these on his way to 3rd place when overcoming a wide gat at this class and distance on November 27th. The draw is more favourable today and he can go close. (10) BEST TORCH showed promise earlier this year but hasn’t raced since finishing in midfield in the Luna Stakes, the first leg of the Triple Tiara, back in April. She has two runner-up finishes at this class and distance though and looked well when coming through a November trial in a decent time. She can go well first-up. (8) HUIMANG CHAMP and the up in class (12) SPRING WATER are among others who can enter the calculations.

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

It’s the final racing weekend of the year and the action gets underway at Busan on Friday where there are 9 race from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all the twelve runners making their racecourse debuts. Plenty showed promise in their trials. (8) OK DREAM is the marginal top pick. She showed on pace in her heat, crossing the line 3rd and stopping the clock in a good time. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (10) FANTASTIC DAY was similarly on the speed in his trial at the end of November before being passed by a couple of experienced horses late on. That showing provided cause for optimism and she will be vying for favourite status here. (1) DAY BY DAY is another who led her trial, ultimately only passed by a two-time winner. She draws very well here to get on pace again and should be in this a long way. (2) WONDERFUL PHONE improved significantly in the second of two trials and along with (12) JUST BE HAPPY is another in the hunt.

Selections(8) OK Dream (10) Fantastic Day (1) Day By Day (2) Wonderful Phone
Next Best12, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A maiden for juvenile maiden fillies with two of the twelve racing for the first time. There are two standouts and they are the only ones who have two starts behind them already. (9) WORLD CLASS CAT ran fairly on debut but then beat three of these on her way to 2nd place at start number two on November 25th when drawn widest and running on strongly. The gate therefore shouldn’t be an issue and she will be a danger here. The other contender is (1) WONDERFUL TOP. She too improved on her second appearance, finishing 3rd over this distance on November 25th when settling back and running on. She comes into a much better gate this time and has strong claims. The exposed form drops off after those two so it might be worth taking a chance on one of the first-timers. (5) MOVIE MORE trialed up competently enough and benefits here from a nice draw and an apprentice claim. (2) DALEHOLRINGWANGDAE and (12) TTANBONG QUEEN among others in the frame.

Selections(9) World Class Cat (1) Wonderful Top (5) Movie More (2) Daleholringwangdae
Next Best12, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 8

Busan Race3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(9) MY LULLABY will be a warm favourite here. She was well back on debut but a much-improved 2nd over 1200M on December 9th. She makes a quick return here and while she’s drawn a touch wider than ideal, she looks to be the one to beat. (3) USEUNGMUPAE has also raced twice, improving second-up when 4th over 1200M in a fair time. He was working home well and can be dangerous here. (11) VEREUDA has also demonstrated some late speed in both her starts to date. The wide draw shouldn’t be much of an impediment and the slight step up in trip may be to her benefit. (1) COOL RUNNING and (7) SKY SHOT are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(9) My Lullaby (3) Useungmupae (11) Vereuda (1) Cool Running
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) JEONGMUN COBIT made all to win at start number three over 1200M on November 6th before very nearly repeating the trick on his first try at this class and distance on November 25th, ultimately coming home 2nd. He only comes up 1.5kg in the weights, he draws very nicely, and he has every chance of going all the way here. This is a competitive field though. (12) K.AI led all the way to get his maiden win over 1200M at this class on November 11th. He overcame gate eleven that day so the wide draw isn’t an issue and an apprentice claim means he carries even less weight today. (3) BURUICHUKJE is still a maiden but comes up in class having run 2nd in both starts so far. She settled back and run on both times and she should be competitive in this company. (11) WORLD FLOWER and (7) TEUKGEUP CAMP are among plenty of others in the placing hunt.

Selections(4) Jeongmun Cobit (12) K.Ai (3) Buruichukje (11) World Flower
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 12

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

(2) ALEC KING IJI ran out a gate to wire winner on debut at the end of October over this distance. He comes up in class here but draws well to get to the lead again and has every chance of maintaining his 100% record. (6) WORLD FIVE similarly made all on her debut 1000M on November 25th. It was in all-filly company and she perhaps has a bit more to find compared with the favourite but she can measure up in this company. (12) RELEASE EDITION has mixed his form across six appearances to date but comes in off a good 3rd at class and distance on November 25th and can be dangerous here. (5) PATRIOT also has a class and distance 2nd to his name and while slightly disappointing last time out, can be given another chance here. (9) HANGANG SAVER, up in class following a good win on his second start, is another in the frame.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (December 18)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:15 to 16:40). The program at both tracks includes a number of trophy races for big prize money as part of the Retired Racehorse Benefit day. These are essentially just normal races at between class 5 and class 3 level (as noted below in the comments). Here are the previews:

Race 5 at Busan marks Winner’s Man’s Korea Cup and Grand Prix victories (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener and there are plenty of promising ones among them. Stepping up to 1200M for the first time, (9) MAESTRA gets the nod. She was 3rd in both her previous starts, both at 1300M, first by leading and then by settling back and running on. Moon Se-young continues aboard and today can be her day. (11) NAOL HAENGBOK ran 2nd in a fast time on a wet track over 1000M on debut on November 13th settling handy and running on. She draws a touch wide for comfort here, but the trip can suit, and she can challenge. (1) TOUCH CHARM is the big winner from the draw. She was a strong 3rd on debut over 1000M on November 26th and is another who can appreciate the additional furlong. Plenty of others in the hunt including (7) DASI TAEEONADO and the first-time starter and trial winner (4) WONDERFUL SLEW.

Selections(9) Maestra (11) Naol Haengbok (1) Touch Charm (7) Dasi Taeeonado
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 11, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(3) CHOEGANG MIRAE debuted without distinction back in April and then didn’t return until the end of October, only beating two home over 1300M. He had won a trial just the week before in a quick time demonstrating that he has some speed and was an improved 5th when tried at this distance on December 3rd. He draws much better here and third-up this could be his day. (4) TWO ACE has a runner-up finish to his name over this distance two starts back when coming from off the pace and followed up with a 4th at his most recent outing. An apprentice takes 3kg off his back and he should be going close. (8) MIRACLE K beat a couple of these on her way to 4th at this distance on November 20th having led for much of the way around and that’s enough to bring her into contention here. (12) DAESEUNG GAON and (9) GOLD KAISER among others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Choegang Mirae (4) Two Ace (8) Miracle K (12) Daeseung Gaon
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

After three consecutive runner-up finishes, it’s about time (11) PURGE DAY won. He has finished 2nd from the front, as he did two starts back at class level, and he has finished 2nd settling back after a slow start and running on, as he did on his first try at this class on October 29th. That latter performance was fast and suggests the wide draw won’t be an issue as he steps up to this distance for the first time. (7) MENI ACE comes up in class and in distance following a maiden win over 1200M on November 12th when for the first time he was on or close to the pace throughout. He carries a light weight, can sit handy here and can run on to challenge again. (10) TOHO SKY comes in having finished a respectable midfield in Listed Nonghyup Chairman’s Cup for juveniles a month ago. He had previously run out a winner in a good time at 1200M and should go close in this company. (2) BICHUICA and (9) WONDERFUL INDY are among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(11) Purge Day (7) Meni Ace (10) Toho Sky (2) Bichuica
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 6, 10, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies open proceedings on the south coast with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (2) SPECIAL ROAD is the favourite, having run 2nd on debut on November 25th over 1000M, having previously run a similarly quick time in a trial. She draws well, carries a very light weight and the additional furlong can suit. The biggest threat looks to be one of the first-time starters. (1) ACE HORANGI won her trial in double quick time, leading all the way. She draws the same inside gate for her first race start and won’t need to improve much on the trial to go very close. (5) MY MANTRA ran on pleasingly enough for 5th place in a good time on debut at 1000M on November 11th and with some natural improvement can go closer today. Debut-makers (11) NEXT MARINE and (6) AMAZING MOVE are others capable of putting in bold showings first-up.

Selections(2) Special Road (1) Ace Horangi (5) My Mantra (11) Next Marine
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1600M) Allowance / KRW 150 Million

(9) MACH STAR is favoured here. A maiden winner at start number two over 1200M at class 6 level on October 23rd, she than ran a good 2nd over that same distance on her first try at this level on November 19th. She has shown herself able to come from off the pace so the big step up in trip may be to her advantage and she is the one to beat. Plenty of others come in with recent form reading well. Chief among those is (8) LUCKY POWER, who was an also-ran in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy in October but ran on well for 2nd over 1300M at this class on November 6th. He is another who can appreciate the additional trip and can be considered. (1) NUT PLAY started his career well but his latest two have seen him first get a long way back from a wide gate and then have a hard time in the Listed Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy. From the inside draw and against more amenable company, he will have fewer excuses here. (4) HWARANG TODAY and (7) ROSE GOLD are among others to consider.

Selections(9) Mach Star (8) Lucky Power (1) Nut Play (4) Hwarang Today
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

An extremely ordinary maiden which sees (8) SPECIAL JOHN, who has raced thirteen times and is yet to finish in the top-two, as the favourite. He has been getting better of late though, with two 3rd places and a 4th from his latest three and in the process set a time for this distance almost a full second faster than anything else here that has tackled the 1200M has managed. He won’t get a better chance than today to make the breakthrough. (2) MORNING MUSE comes back in trip and shapes as the logical danger having been on pace and then faded in her latest outings at further. She is up in the weights but that’s balanced by a good gate. The form, such that is, falls off after that with (7) WIDAEHAN SEONTAEK and (6) SPEED MAST the only others to have respectable showings among their most recent appearances which is enough to bring them into play here. (10) VELOCIRAPTOR did at least run on at start two over 1000M last time so may go better at this trip but is hardly convincing.

Selections(8) Special John (2) Morning Muse (7) Widaehan Seontaek (6) Speed Mast
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1700M) Allowance (Rating 1-35) / KRW 150 Million

Competitive race here. (12) WONDERFUL JOY overcame the widest gate to sit handy and then run on to win at class 5 level (which is essentially what this is), with three of today’s rivals behind him over this distance on November 12th. The set weight scale means he only comes up 1kg and that, combined with the widest gate again, might not be enough to prevent him winning again. (2) SPO BLADE is turning into a useful type. He got his maiden win at class 6 level two starts back over 1200M before running 2nd at 1300M on his first try at class 5 on November 19th. He has proven tactically versatile at the shorter distances and can go well on his debut over two turns. (5) FEDERAL KING and (7) K N TIZWON came home 2nd and 4th respectively behind Wonderful Joy in that November 12th race and both can be looking to go close again. (4) GAMGOK SUNSHINE another who can enter the calculations.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 17)

It’s turned very cold in Korea the past couple of days and temperatures in the capital are forecast to remain below zero for the foreseeable future. Nevertheless, the sun will probably be shining and there are 10 races in Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here and every single one of the twelve is racing for the first time so we must head for the trial videos. Most of these took more than one attempt at qualifying and that applies to the probable favourite (5) BLACK MOTION, who wasn’t ready on his first attempt in July. He has since been gelded and looked much more assured when winning a heat on November 25th sitting handy and then running on, crossing the line in a decent time ten-lengths to the good. If he can bring that form to the races, he can win. Going on times, (4) AGAPANTHUS is the second pick. His heat was first due to the presence of Grand Prix Stakes 4th placed Saryeoni First and Korean Oaks 3rd Chamjoeun Chingu but he stuck with both and can go well here. (8) DONGHAENG FIRST and (1) KARIZMA came through the same trial, and both hinted at ability while (9) VILLARRICA is another who offered some evidence of potential when 2nd on his heat two weeks ago in a fair time.

Selections(5) Black Motion (4) Agapanthus (8) Donghaeng First (1) Karizma
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens although this time only one of twelve is appearing for the first time with the rest all having raced once apiece. The three lowest drawn look set to dispute it. Of them (1) ACHIM DONGJA is the only one who debuted at this distance, starting slowly on November 5th but running on strong for a good 3rd place in a good time. He should have derived benefit for the experience and with a better start, is the one to beat. (2) STRENGTH showed speed when 4th on debut in a quick time over 1000M on November 27th. He finished off well and the additional furlong shouldn’t prove problematic from a good gate. Similarly, (3) NAOL GONI ran on for 4th on debut over 1000M a month ago and looks to be the other legitimate winning chance. Among the rest, (8) SAVANA CHARLIE was also 4th on debut, albeit in a slower time. He did though finish off very well and the step up in trip can benefit. Debut maker (12) THUNDER PRINCE went through two trials, improving in the latter, and may go well first-up at probable big odds.

Selections(1) Achim Dongja (2) Strength (3) Naol Goni (8) Savana Charlie
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens, all with racing experience. (1) G MOTION is the warm favourite, having finished no worse than 4th in three starts so far, with two of them coming over this distance in good times. He draws very nicely here, and he won’t need to improve much to win this. (5) CHROMITE came home 5th to G Motion’s 4th when they raced each other on November 19th. He has three lengths to find on the favourite but that was his first try at this distance and he may improve for the experience. (8) DALGEUM comes up in trip for the first time after back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1000M. Both times she was doing her best work late on and the additional furlong can suit here under a very light weight. (6) UNICORN KINGDOM is similarly up in class following an improved 2nd over 1000M at start number three and along with (2) MISS WIN STAR is another in the frame.

Selections(1) G Motion (5) Chromite (8) Dalgeum (6) Unicorn Kingdom
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Regular maiden open to all ages. (12) EUREKA has never finished any better than 4th but that is something he has achieved on no fewer than five of his nine starts so far. He draws wide here but given his running style, that may not be much of a problem. His times at this distance have not exactly been electrifying, but that’s true for everything else here too and he has as good a chance as any. (10) BEST BIG BANG has the fastest – though that’s relative – time of those who have attempted the distance before. That was achieved when beating Eureka as the pair ran 3rd and 4th on October 16th. He remains nicely weighted under an apprentice and can go close. (6) DEVIL K has a couple of 3rd place finishes to his name and that’s enough to put him firmly in contention in this company. In the absence of any early speed, he may lead and can be in this a long way. (4) CHOEGO POINT and (9) MADISON MOUNTAIN are others who could be in the mix.

Selections(12) Eureka (10) Best Big Bang (6) Devil K (4) Choego Point
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start2, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

It’s hard to look too far past (10) HIGH GRAND here. After back-to-back 4th places over 1000M, he stepped up to 1200M on November 5th and very nearly made all, ultimately coming home 2nd in a quick time. He has the challenge of the wide gate here so may need a touch of luck at the stuck but if he can get a forward position, he will take some beating. (2) SERYUNG comes in off 4th places in his latest two outings, both at 1200M. He draws nicely here to sit on pace or handy and the extra half furlong can suit. (1) MORNING PRINCE enters having run good times in his latest two at 1200M for 3rd and 5th. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races so far but runs on well and is another for who the additional trip can suit. (6) BEST PLAN and (12) HOUYHNHNM others with minor money claims.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 16)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but one racing for the first time. (3) GEUMA DEFT blitzed a trial leading for most of it before crossing the line 2nd behind experienced winner Fashion Blade and stopping the clock in a very fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he’ll be a winner on debut here. (12) RUNNING POWER is the only one with experience. It’s good experience too as he was a very narrow 2nd over this distance on November 18th having raced handy throughout. The time was fast and while he has the challenge of a wide draw here, he can build on that. (7) FAST GUN trialled up alongside some experienced horses and while he couldn’t quit e match their times, he showed ability and can go well first up. (2) PIMI and (5) HAPPY BRIANNA are others who can considered for bold showings on debut.

Selections(3) Geuma Deft (12) Running Power (7) Fast Gun (2) Pimi
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens although this time with just one racing for the first time. We’re happy to take a chance on him though. (2) SEUNGNIUIYEONGUNG won his trial with a front-running effort in a fair time. He draws nicely here to get on pace again, he’s from the top stable at the track, and he has every chance. (10) GOODY has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating with   2nd place finish on his latest on November 13th, when settling midfield before quickly racing up to join the leaders and then ran on. He has the fastest time by some margin among those who have tackled the distance before, and he is a big chance here. (11) META QUEEN ran midfield behind Goody on debut but returned on November 11th to run a solid 2nd over 1000M. With some more natural improvement today, she can go close again. (5) DOCTOR PANGPANG and (9) GLOBAL SKY among others in the frame.

Selections(2) Suengniuiyeongung (10) Goody (11) Meta Queen (5) Doctor Pangpang
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A very ordinary maiden here. (5) ARTHUR KING IJI has hinted at ability across three outings so far with his most recent, a 5th place when on pace over 1200M on November 27th, his best. He draws well here, the step up to seven furlongs can suit, and he has as good a chance as any. Also stepping up in trip is (12) DOCTOR SHARK. She comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at 1000M and 1200M and while she is done no favours by the draw, she has been finishing off her races well and the extended trip could be beneficial. (8) FLEX SHINHWA also has a couple of 3rd place finishes to his name and can be a placing chance again, while (11) CUQUENAN and (4) FIGHT FAMILY, who came home 4th and 6th respectively when racing one another on November 18th, are among others to consider.

Selections(5) Arthur King Iji (12) Doctor Shark (8) Flex Shinhwa (11) Cuquenan
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 11, 12

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

Having won an October trial, (2) SEUNGNIMAGIC KING was sent off as favourite on his debut on November 18th and he duly obliged, sitting on pace, and gradually wearing his rivals down for a narrow score in a fast time. He comes up in both class and distance here but draws nicely, is weighted well, and he can maintain his 100% record. (8) GRAPHENE RAP WORLD also comes up in class and trip. She ran 2nd on debut in October before getting her maiden win at start number two over 1000M on November 11th when making all. She carries a light weight again and should be measuring up in this company. (10) WONDERFUL VOW was a winner on debut before struggling in Listed company last time out. She returns to shallower waters here and can be given another chance. (6) MOTHER MOUNTAIN and (9) PUNGUN JOHWA are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(2) Seungnimagic King (8) Graphene Rap World (10) Wonderful Vow (6) Mother Mountain
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start2, 8, 10, 11

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

(10) HANSEN COD GIRL was an also ran in the Listed Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Trophy last month but her form prior to that was good with a win and two 3rd place finishes. The most recent of those 3rd places was over this class and distance on October 30th when she overcame an even wider gate to get on pace and she looks the one to beat here. (3) JEONGDEUN-RO enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes in all-filly races at this class and distance. She draws nicely here and can be in the placing hunt again. (6) DOCTOR KONGSUNI is yet to win in ten attempts but has no fewer than seven top-five finishes and from a fair draw can be on pace and in this a long way.  (7) HALLA BAEKDU and (4) GLOBAL CHOEGO are among others with at least placing claims.

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Grand Prix Stakes Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (December 11)

It’s Grand Prix Stakes Sunday with the traditional season finale bringing together sixteen of the country’s best horses at Seoul for the 2300M Group 1 test. See here for a full runner-by-runner guide. The Grand Prix is race 8 on the 11-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There is also a 6-race card at Busan from 12:15 to 16:45. The Grand Prix is at 16:15. Here are all the previews:

Haengbok Wangja won last year’s Grand Prix. He returns to try to defend his title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener with three of the small field of eight racing for the first time.  (8) RAON CITY GIRL has race twice and was an improved 3rd in the second of them over this distance on November 6th when handy throughout and finishing in a fast time. The small field means she should be able to get on pace again and she is the one to beat. The biggest danger looks to be one of the first timers. (1) EINSPANNER was an on-pace 2nd in her trial in a fair time and from a great draw can put in a bold showing first up. (2) BLUE ARCH has raced twice at this distance and just like Raon City Girl, she improved in the second of them, settling handy and running on for 4th. With some more improvement she can be in the mix here. (3) GEOMIBULU is a debut-maker who must be taken seriously having won her trial in November when settling midfield and running on. (7) GROW can improve on her midfield finish on debut.

Selections(8) Raon City Girl (1) Einspanner (2) Blue Arch (3) Geomibulu
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile filly maidens this time with four of the eight making their racing debuts. (7) ICE CREAM will be the hot favourite. She led for much of her debut at this distance on October 16th, ultimately finishing back in 4th but with close margins and a quick time. She should have derived benefit from the experience and if she runs to that level again, she should win. (1) NANGJU YEOGEOL has raced twice already, finishing 5th both times and stopping the clock in exactly the same time. A similar run will put her into the places here. Among the first-time starters, (2) BULGOM MADRE looks to be the pick. She came from off the pace to win her trial in a fair time and if she brings that form to the races, she can go close in this company. (4) GREEN SPECTER led for most of her trial, crossing the line 2nd. She draws well to be on pace and can be in this a long way on debut. (3) GOOD SIMON perhaps needs trying at further but can aim for minor money.

Selections(7) Ice Cream (1) Nangju Yeogeol (2) Bulgom Madre (4) Green Specter
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens again, this time open to colts as well as fillies. Four of the eight race for the first time. (8) GEOSEN CHAMP is the favourite. He ran an improved 4th at start number two over this distance on November 5th, beginning slowly and then settling right back before finishing strongly, well beaten by winner Farciarz but posting a more than respectable time. With some natural improvement, he may take some beating. (6) RICH GATE ran pleasingly enough for a midfield finish in a good time on debut on October 30th. He can have benefited for the run and can be in the mix here. (3) HALLSTATT and (4) SEUNGRIUI YEONGHON both put in fair efforts on their respective debuts and can build on them here with the latter likely to be on the early pace. The first-time staters didn’t exactly leap out of the trial highlights reels. (7) CHRYSOL SMILE is the first foal by 2016 Korea Cup winner Chrysolite to make the track.

Selections(8) Geosen Champ (6) Rich Gate (3) Hallstatt (4) Seungriui Yeonghon
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 6

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens get things underway on the south coast with two of the ten racing for the first time. (3) HANEUL SEUNGNI races for the third time, having run 3rd and 2nd in two previous outings, both at 1000M and both in good times. He draws nicely to lead here and can go all the way. (6) STAR FURY went through two October trials, improving significantly in the second of them (which as it was a voluntary trial, may not appear in all race cards). In that trial he crossed the line within two-lengths of Touch Star Man and Top Mate, experienced winners (the former a Classic winner) and he can be given a chance here. (1) STORMY DAY beat a couple of these on his way to a very creditable 4th place over this distance on debut on November 13th. He doesn’t have the benefit of an apprentice claim today, but that’s balanced somewhat by a better draw, and he can go close. (7) DALLILLAEYO was 5th in that race on November 13th when settling right back and running on. That was an improvement from his debut, and he can continue to make progress here. (4) REMEMBER ME another who can improve.

Selections(3) Haneul Seungni (6) Star Fury (1) Stormy Day (7) Dallillaeyo
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile filly maidens. (1) HANGANG JILJU looks ready to win. She improved at start number three when an on the pace 4th over 1000M and coming up in trip for the first time and from a good draw, may take some beating. (7) BAEDARI GONGJU has made steady progress across three outings so far, with her 4th place on what was her first try at this distance on November 13th, her best so far. She has tended to get a bit far back in her races but can run on and challenge here. (8) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL similarly demonstrated improvement at start number two. She has drawn wide every time so far, but in today’s smaller field, it may not be much of a hindrance. (4) CATS WOMAN and (6) RED TAEPUNG are others with claims on the minors

Selections(1) Hangang Jilju (7) Baedari Gongju (8) Gangcheol Yeogeol (4) Cats Woman
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Another maiden where it is hard to look past the favourite. (4) PAN STAR has steadily improved across three starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on November 18th when she came close to making all. The additional half furlong shouldn’t be an issue and she can go one better today. (6) HEARTBREAKER also improved at start number two on November 11th when sitting midfield and getting back well for 3rd over 1200M. He stretches out a little further in trip today and with some natural improvement, he can go close. (5) ADELE HORANGI has four top-five finishes from his five starts to date. His best was a second place in October over this distance when handy to the speed and he can be a danger here. (8) JEONGMUN CHITA and (7) BOOMY STAR the others in the hunt.

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GRAND PRIX STAKES 2022 FORM COMMENTS

It’s the one they all want to win.  The Korea Cup may offer more prize money, but the Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) is into its fortieth year as the traditional finale to the Korean racing season and no owner, trainer or jockey can say their career is complete without a win on their CV.

Raon The Fighter and Moon Se Young will be bidding to win the Grand Prix on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

This year a full field of sixteen are set to go to post at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, nine from the host track and seven from Busan, to decide the title of champion Korean racehorse of 2022. The defending champion, Haengbok Wangja is among them, but all eyes will be the rematch between Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter, winner and runner-up in the international Korea Cup.

Both have raced once since that day in September, and it is Raon The Fighter who enters in the better form. He was a spectacular winner of the KRA Cup Classic (2000M KOR-G2) and from a plum draw in gate two, he is set to start the favourite. Not that Winner’s Man will mind his wide draw. Last Year’s Korean Derby winner could only manage 3rd in the President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) in November but that was his first defeat of the year, and he is sure to put in a big effort again.

The President’s Cup winner Raon First bids to become the first filly or mare to win the race since Gamdonguibada in 2012, while the consistent King Of The Match, 2nd to Raon The Fighter in the Cup Classic is another in the top line of contenders. Here is a full run-down of the field:

1. GEUMA MYSTIC – Yet to win at class 1 level but was 3rd in the YTN Cup in May and 5th in KRA Cup Classic in October, both over 2000M. At the latter he sat back and ran on and while he doesn’t shape as a winning chance here, he can give a good account of himself.

2. RAON THE FIGHTER – The most exciting galloper in Korea right now, he was runner-up in the Korea Cup and subsequently won the KRA Cup Classic (2000M KOR-G2) when he used his natural speed to easily cross to the lead from a wide draw and then exploded into the straight before being eased in the closing stages. That was his first try at 2000M and there’s no reason 2300M should be a problem. Will look to lead from a great draw and is a winning chance. Jockey Moon Se-young is bidding for his second win in the race, fifteen years after his first, on Bally Brae in 2007.

3. SARYEONI FIRST – A progressive three-year-old, the only one in the race, he ran 4th in the Minister’s Cup over 2000M in June. He comes in having won his latest three up to class 3 level and 1800M, but he has been campaigned with this race in mind. The distance seems likely to suit and he gets the three-year-old weight allowance.

4. KING OF THE MATCH – A consistent performer, if non-winner, in elite races this year with standouts being 4th in the Korea Cup and 2nd in the KRA Cup Classic, this race has always clearly been the target. In the Classic, he raced further forward than usual, settling handy, and he benefited. At the furlong pole, while not making ground on Raon The Fighter, he was running away from the rest. Ignore his 4th at 1400M last month. Distance should suit and settling handy again, he has a chance. You Hyun-myung, who won the Grand Prix on Mister Park in 2010 is in the saddle

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

It’s Grand Prix Stakes Eve! Before the big race at Seoul on Sunday, the capital track hosts a Saturday meeting with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Haengbok Wangja won last year’s Grand Prix. He returns to try to defend his title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the eight racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on one of the debut makers in the shape of (6) J MOTION. He made all to win his trial by a big margin and in a quick time in mid-November. If he can bring that form to the races, he can win first-up. The main danger is one of the ones with prior experience. (8) CLOUD NINE has raced twice, not doing much on debut but then improving to 3rd when stepped up to this trip on October 23rd. He sat right back early before running on and so long as he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he can be competitive here. (2) SINUI HAMSEONG has been through a load of trials. The most recent (which was voluntary so may not appear on all race cards) on November 11th saw his overcome a wide draw to sit off pace and hen run on very nicely to cross the line 1st in a good time. The distance should suit for his debut here. (4) CLUB D is another trial winner and along with (7) NONSTOP THUNDER is also with claims to go well.

Selections(6) J Motion (8) Cloud Nine (2) Sinui Hamseong (4) Club D
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maidens and it’s hard to look far past (11) GEUMBITMA. He has three top-four finishes from his four prior starts, alongside a solid 6th place in the listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy. He comes in off a solid 3rd place last time out on November 5th when sitting handy throughout and while he has the challenge of the wide gate, he should have too much. (5) RAON AMERICAN ran 5th in that November 5th race, settling midfield and finishing off well. He also has a 2nd place to his name at the distance and getting a much better draw than the favourite, can be a danger under You Hyun-myung, who is in town to ride in Sunday’s Grand Prix Stakes. (4) HUMMING BIRD enters off a last start runner-up finish over the distance and while she was well beaten by a good winner, she comes into a much better gate today and can go close again. (3) SUPREME STAR and (1) RAON THE CHARLIE among others with credible placing chances.

Selections(11) Geumbitma (5) Raon American (4) Humming Bird (3) Supreme Star
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) here and it looks to be between two last start winners. (11) WONDERFUL WEEK was a super winner at start number two over 1000M on October 30th, settling handy and running on to stop the clock in a fast time. Neither he extended trip, or the class rise should be a problem and while the draw isn’t ideal, she looks to have plenty of potential. (6) MAPARAM was a fine winner over 1300M at this class on November 5th, making all in a quick time. The engagement of an apprentice jockey keeps the weight down and from a good gate, she should be in this a long way again. (8) CONCORD QUEEN has finished in 6th and 7th in her latest two, but the margins haven’t been big, and she can be a factor here. (4) GEUMA ALLURE and (9) JAKDUKONG are among a lengthy list of other placing contenders.

Selections(11) Wonderful Week (6) Maparam (8) Concord Queen (4) Geuma Allure
Next Best9, 12
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 11

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

A very competitive affair in prospect here. We’ll side with (2) EUNPA CHAMPION, an all the way winner on debut in a fast time over 1000M on November 6th having previously won a trial. He is up in class and up a furlong and a half in distance, but he can be equal to both. (5) NAOL CHEONJI was a winner on debut over 1000M in October and then followed up with a 3rd place over 1300M on her first try at this class on November 5th. She should have benefited from that latter experience, she should be on pace here, and she has every chance. (3) YONGBI SEOUL is another who comes up in class having won on debut, in his case on October 29th when settling handy to the lead and running on over 1000M. He too can measure up in this company. It took (9) SECRET KING a few more goes to get his maiden win but he did it in fine style over 1200M on November 19th and can be competitive. (8) GEOMEUN JILJU another in the hunt.

Selections(2) Eunpa Champion (5) Naol Cheonji (3) Yongbi Seoul (9) Secret King
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) K N POST remains a maiden but it’s about time that changed. She has been consistent across her eight starts to date with her only disappointing recent effort coming when drawn very wide at this trip. She comes in off a strong runner-up finish over 1400M on October 23rd when she settled back and ran on, and today can be her day. (2) WONDERFUL HWASEONG is another maiden. He also comes in off a spin around 1400M when 5th and while he comes up 2.5kg on that effort, he draws a nice gate and can be competitive here. (9) JILJUE BADA beat a coupe of these on his way to 4th place at class and distance on November 5th. He comes in under the same weight and given his running style, the wide gate shouldn’t be a problem. (7) GRAND STAR and (3) DOUBLE TAKE among others in the minor money hunt.

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