Racing Previews

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 18)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

(10) LEGAL HIGH is the most experienced of these with five starts behind her and she looks to be working towards a win. Her last outing was her best when a close 2nd over 1300M having been handy throughout. The draw is a touch wide, but she may just prove too good. (4) THUNDER BLUE raced once last summer without distinction, but looked much better when reappearing six months later on January 15th when he was handy throughout and came home 2nd over this distance. He should have come on for that run and is firmly in this. (12) MR QUALITY led for much of his debut race on January 14th, ultimately having to settle for 2nd place. He is done no favours by the draw here but with a touch of luck at the start should be in it a long way again. (3) ZEROBAEKFOUR improved considerably last time out and along with (9) FLY DAY is another worth thought.

Selections(10) Legal High (4) Thunder Blue (12) Mr Quality (3) Zerobaekfour
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 12

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies. A few of them come in looking ready to win but (1) DONGHAENG FIRST gets the decision. Having run 4th on debut over 1000M she stepped up to this distance on January 15th and ran 3rd, having sat handy throughout. The time was quicker than any of the others have achieved at this distance and she draws very nicely in the inside gate. (3) NAOL HAENGBOK has a 2nd and a 4th from her two appearances, both times having raced on the pace. She draws much better than she did last time and can be a danger here. (11) CUPID CHAMP overcame a similarly wide gate to run 3rd over 1300M on January 8th. She’s raced well on all three occasions so far and with any top-three finish meaning she will be in class 5 next time, it’s not impossible that she could bow out of the bottom level with a win. Those three look the clear best but the two debut-makers, (8) GEUMSEONG REVERE and (7) BAEKPYO both hinted at ability when trialling together on January 13th and bold showings are possible.

Selections(1) Donghaeng First (3) Naol Haengbok (11) Cupid Champ (8) Geumseong Revere
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

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

(2) NAOL GONI registered his maiden win at start number three over 1300M on January 14th, making all. It was not a surprise, based on her his previous two outings and while he is up in class here, he comes down in the weights, draws very nicely, and has every chance of leading all the way again. Slightly more unexpected was (6) GANGHAN QUEEN getting her maiden victory on January 7th, she too leading all the way. She is a front-runner and carries a very light weight here and could measure up at a probable each-way price. (8) DOLBAE has plenty of experience at this level and while she can mix her form, she enters off a strong 2nd place at class and distance a month ago when settling midfield and running on. She is up in the weights but is in the frame. (5) CLAIR BEST and (4) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM are others who may enter the calculations.

Selections(2) Naol Goni (6) Ganghan Queen (8) Dolbae (5) Clair Best
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here and for once, (7) THE FAVORITE will be exactly that. And a warm one too having beaten a few of these on her way to 2nd place in a very similar race over 1300M on January 29th when settling in midfield and running on strongly. The additional half-furlong can be in her favour and at start fourteen, she can finally make the breakthrough. Should she find one too quick again, it could be (3) QUEEN OF BEST. She does know how to win, having done it on three occasions and enters off a useful class and distance 4th on January 7th when she came from off the pace. An apprentice claim takes her weight down and she can be considered. (1) GREEN FEELSTAR was one of those behind The Favorite last month when going right back and running on too late. Coming back up to 1400M may suit. (12) V QUEEN and (8) TROT QUEEN among the minor money hopes.

Selections(7) The Favorite (3) Queen Of Best (1) Green Feelstar (12) V Queen
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) GIPPEUM HWANHO took a very narrow win over 1200M at class 5 level on January 15th. It was his maiden score but it came after three consecutive runner-up finishes and while he is up in class here, he comes down significantly in the weights he draws well, and he can win again. (11) GANA FASHION is the principal danger. She won at class and distance in December before dropping back to 1200M and finishing 5th of twelve on January 14th. She carries 3kg more than when she won but the wide draw shouldn’t be problematic and she has a chance. (12) K N SKETCH has run consistently good times at this distance and also holds a win at it. He comes up 2kg from his latest but is another who won’t be perturbed by the wide gate and can be working home well. (5) WOLF PLAY and (10) BODY STAR among other placing chances.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 17)

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

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. The favourite will be (4) CHEERFUL LIFE, who having run 5th on debut over 1000M, stepped up to this trip at start number two on January 15th and ran 2nd having led for most of the way around. He draws nicely to be on pace again and this time will be expected to go all the way. (7) SKY MOUNTAIN is the most credible danger. She’s bee on pace in both he starts so far finishing 4th and 5th at 1000M and 1300M, recoding good times on both occasions. She’ll be up with the speed and in this a long way again. (1) LEMON BULPAE was green and slow on debut in December but has since been back to trial where he delivered a much more assured (and quicker) performance. If he brings that form to the races, he can be in the finish here. (8) MORO and (3) SEONGSIL STAR others in the money hunt.

Selections(4) Cheerful Life (7) Sky Mountain (1) Lemon Bulpae (8) Moro
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies here. The one to beat is (2) HERE THE QUEEN who was a solid 2nd when stepped up to this distance on what was her second appearance on January 15th when slowly away before running on well. She draws a much better gate this time and the same apprentice jockey keeps her carried weight low. She should go one better. (4) B.K. NUMA hinted that she may be figuring things out when an improved 5th in a decent time at this trip on January 15th. She beat a couple of these in the process and can maintain her upward trajectory here. (5) MASARANGGIL settled back in the field on debut at this distance on January 27th before running on well for 2nd. The time wasn’t fast, but she should have derived benefit from the run and can be in the mix again here. (12) NEXT MARINE and (11) AMAZING MOVE are done no favours by the draw, but both look to have potential to improve.

Selections(2) Here The Queen (4) B.K. Numa (5) Masaranggil (12) Next Marine
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 12

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

Tricky one but given the paucity of form of the opposition, it is tempting to go with the solitary debut-maker (9) ACE A MOCA. She was close to the pace in her trial and stopped the clock in a fair time. Seo Seung-un is aboard and there looks to be plenty to like about the four-year-old. (5) VELOCIRAPTOR has shown steady progress across five starts so far with a close 5th over 1300M on January 13th her best so far when she was ridden much closer than usual. She draws well to be handy again and should be aiming for another best finish to date. (2) ECTON POWER struggled over a mile last time out but went into that race following a 3rd and a 5th. He carries a light weight with an apprentice claim and may not be far away. (1) BINGO MAN has been back to trial since his latest – when he was first-up after seven months out – and should be better today. (12) WONDERFUL SMARTY another who in this company can aim for minor money.

Selections(9) Ace A Moca (5) Velociraptor (2) Ecton Power (1) Bingo Man
Next Best12, 3
Fast Start7, 8, 10, 12

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

(10) SUCCESS MOCCA got his maiden win at start number two over this distance on January 8th, overcoming the widest gate to get to the front and lead every step of the way, scoring by as many lengths as he pleased. He is up in class here and draws a touch wider than ideal again, but both can be overcome, and he is the one to beat. (2) HANEUL SEUNGNI was slowly away from a wide draw on his first try at this class on January 13th. He had been on pace in all his previous starts and from a much better draw, he can get an easier run here and looks the main danger. (11) EVER STAR beat both Success Mocca and Haneul Seungni when winning at class 6 level over 1000M back on November 4th. This is her first start since and while she is done no favours by the draw, she can measure up in this company under a feather weight. (6) WORLD FLOWER is yet to win in twenty-four but has twelve top-five finishes including a last start 2nd and can be in the hunt. (7) TAEYANG EUTTEUM among other place chances.

Selections(10) Success Mocca (2) Haneul Seungni (11) Ever Star (6) World Flower
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 10

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

(9) RELEASE EDITION has been working towards a second win and comes in off a runner-up finish on January 13th over this distance in what was a phenomenally quick time, albeit on a very wet and fast track. Despite the draw, in this company he should be on or close to the pace and if he runs to his best may take some beating. (1) HAMPYEONG IS BACK made all over this distance to get his maiden win at the third time of asking on January 1300M. He come sup in class here but is well-weighted and nicely drawn and he looks to be the testing material. The form drops off precipitously after those two. (2) CHEONGMA YEONGUNG has got too far back in his three most recent outings. He does though have a runner-up finish to his name at this class when ridden closer to the pace and from a good draw and in modest company, may get an easier early run this time. (7) KING BOSS and (5) THUNDER CROWN others who may trouble the scorers at their best.

Selections(9) Release Edition (1) Hampyeong Is Back (2) Cheongma Yeongung (7) King Boss
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race. (12) YEOSU FIGHTER overcame a similarly wide draw and then a slow start to run 2nd, admittedly well beaten by a good winner, at class and distance on January 29th. He will need a touch of luck at the start but if he breaks cleanly and finds a good position, he has winning claims here. (8) YEONGGWANGUI ACE is the main danger and possible favourite. He made all to get his maiden win at class 6 level over 1200M two starts back before running 5th on his first try at this level when settling midfield and running on. He comes up to this distance for the first time but can be on pace here and should be in this a long way. (10) BACKTOTHELEGEND ran 5th behind Yeosu Fighter on that January 29th race. That was his first go at this distance having won at his previous start over 1200M and he should go close again. (5) GOLDEN POINT and (1) QUALITY QUEEN are others to keep safe.

Selections(12) Yeosu Fighter (8) Yeonggwangui Ace (10) Backtothelegend (5) Golden Point
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 12

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(2) SEUNGNIMAGIC KING won his first two races before suffering his first setback on his first try at this class and distance on January 27th when settling midfield and the being shuffled further back before running on strongly for 2nd. That experience could have benefitted him, and he is strongly favoured to return to winning ways today. (3) SEOBU BIGSTEP has mixed his form a little in five starts so far. He led over a mile last time out on what was his first try at this class but should be better today back at a distance he has won at and with a good draw and a light weight. (5) CAPTAIN GOLD is yet to finish any worse than 4th in seven appearances. He likes to race on pace and while he may once again find one or two too quick, he should be maintaining that consistent record here. (7) MENIFEE SONG beat Captain Gold when winning at class and distance on January 6th when settling midfield and running on. He comes up 3kg in the weights but warrants respect here. Up in class but down in weight (6) RUN AND GUN is one of plenty of others with at least placing chances.

Selections(2) Seungnimagic King (3) Seobu Bigstep (5) Captain Gold (7) Menifee Song
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 8: Class 4 (1800M) Special Weight B / KRW 60 Million

(5) KING GRACE doesn’t exactly win out of turn but it’s rare for him to be very far away. He enters off a close 2nd at class and distance on January 13th when settling right at the back of the field before steadily improving and almost getting there and while he comes up 1kg in the weights, he is the one to beat today. (8) MACH WONDER won back-to-back races in November and December to be rapidly promoted to this class. He then ran 5th on his first try at this level and at this distance on January 29th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He is nicely weighted here and can be competitive. (9) GEUMA INFINITE comes in off a runner-up finish over a mile at this level just two weeks ago. He is up in the weights today but still looks nicely in. (6) DEMON SPY and the up in class (10) NEW CROWN are others to keep safe.

Selections(5) King Grace (8) Mach Wonder (9) Geuma Infinite (6) Demon Spy
Next Best10, 12
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 9: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(7) GEUMA PASSIONATE saw his unbeaten record come to an end when 3rd behind Again Touch at class and distance on January 13th. He did though beat several of today’s rivals and while he comes up slightly in weight, he will be favoured to return to winning ways here. (6) SANGSEUNG BOY was one of those beaten in that January 13th race. He is a winner at this class over 1400M and in this company can be close to the pace and in this a long way. (1) YEONGGWANGUI STAR was 4th in that January 13th race. Two starts back he made all to win over this distance on his reappearance after eleven months out and under a light weight and from a great draw, he must be considered. (3) WINNING DANCER and (8) SPICE ECTON among others in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Geuma Passionate (6) Sangseung Boy (1) Yeonggwangui Star (3) Winning Dancer
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 10

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (February 12)

There is a bumper day of racing on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and six at Busan from 11:05 to 15:40. There are no Listed or Graded races but plenty of competitive action to get stuck into. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. (5) APEX did nothing on debut but significantly improved when stepped up to this trip in a similar all-filly race on January 15th, settling back before running on for 3rd in snowy conditions. She can be ridden further forward here and today can be her day. (9) KKUMUI SUNGAN was a quick 2nd on debut over 1000M before weakening having led on her first try at this distance on January 8th. She was favourite that day and with Moon Se-young remaining aboard, will probably start as the market leader here too. (3) J.Y. COCO put in a solid effort on debut to run 4th of eleven over 1200M when settling midfield and finishing off well. She should have derived benefit for that run and can match or better today. (8) AREUMDAUN SAI and the solitary debut-maker (7) BEAUTIFUL MELODY best of the rest.

Selections(5) Apex (9) Kkumui Sungan (3) J.Y. Coco (8) Areumdaun Sai
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens with three of the twelve racing for the first time. (6) MULTI HIT looks the one to beat having shown steady improvement across three outings to date, culminating in a 3rd place last time out of January 15th when settling handy and finishing well over this distance. The time was significantly quicker than any of his rivals here have managed and he won’t really need to improve in order to win. In a race where the exposed form is so patchy, any first-timer who trialled well needs to be given a chance. (4) JORDAN FIGHTING fits the bill having run 3rd in his heat in a good time, showing close to the place. He draws well and the favourite aside, couldn’t pick a softer race to debut in. (3) HANEUL BULPAE beat a couple of these on his way to a fair 6th on debut on January 8th, having been very slowly away and last until the final furlong when he started to make up good ground. That puts him in the frame here. (11) JEONGMUN SPECTER and first-timer (1) OK DREAM, who led a trial, others to keep safe.

Selections(6) Multi Hit (4) Jordan Fighting (3) Haneul Bulpae (11) Jeongmun Specter
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 11

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

Three-year-old maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. There are two standouts both of who will need to be forgiven slightly lacklustre latest outings. (11) MAESTRA finished in 3rd place on both her first two starts, both at 1000M She was favourite for her first try at this distance on December 18th and she led until weakening for 6th. She should have come on for that experience and can get it right today. (4) HANGANG POWER stepped up to 1300M on his last start on January 7th, racing in midfield throughout and finishing 6th. Going on his previous 3rd place over 1000M though suggests he has a bit of speed about him and he too gets another chance today. (6) MY ONE improved at start number three running 4th over this distance and stopping the clock in a good time. A repeat will put him in the mix here (3) HALLSTATT and (9) SEONGEUN CROWN among others to consider.

Selections(11) Maestra (4) Hangang Power (6) My One (3) Hallstatt
Next Best9, 12
Fast Start7, 10, 11, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(3) JEOLDAE BOSS gets the nod here having been knocking on the door across his four starts so far. His latest, on January 13th, was his best so far when he settled midfield and steadily improved up to 2nd on the line having overcome a wide draw. That was over 1300M and there is no reason why the additional half furlong can’t suit. (7) CHONGAL CHARM put in a good showing when on pace over 1300M on December 11th and finishing a close 2nd. The same apprentice keeps the weight light, and he can put in a bold showing again. (8) TOP FRIEND came from well off the pace to run 2nd over 1300M on January 13th. He has got a long way back in each of his starts so far, but the additional half-furlong today may be to his benefit. (4) POWER RIDE and (9) SAEKDAL FIGHTER among others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Jeoldae Boss (7) Chongal Charm (8) Top Friend (4) Power Ride
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

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

Not a strong maiden so we can accept (11) MIR POINT’s 5th place on Christmas Eve when he used up plenty of petrol coming out of the widest gate and getting to the speed. The time before he had run 2nd over 1000M. The draw is not ideal again but against this opposition, with a touch of luck at the start, he can win. (4) CUPID WOW has a 3rd place to his name over this distance. He draws well to be on pace here and he should be in this a long way. (12) GOLDEN LUCKY will need a line drawn through her latest over 1300M when knocking up very quickly and only beating two. If we go on her start prior to that though, she ran a good 2nd at this distance and she can be given another chance here. (9) DONGTEUJA WAY and (7) HIGH BORN ME others who can compete for the minor money.

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 12 races from 10:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Moon Se-young is back from suspension on Saturday: Pic: KRA

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens get proceedings under way with five of the twelve racing for the first time. Unusually we’ll take a chance on a first timer and (8) AUSTIN LEADER. He showed well in his trial when handy and running though the line well in a fast time on an admittedly wet track. 1200M can suit first up and if he brings that trial form to the races, he has every chance of a win on debut. Trials don’t always translate to the real thing though as was the case with (1) BULGEUN POKPUNG who barely scraped through qualifying after a strong of slow efforts. That led to him being sent off the longest but one shot on the board on debut on December 17th, but he defied that to come from off the pace for 3rd. The step up in trip should suit and a similar effort will see him in the finish. (2) MAGUMA has a 2nd place at this distance in a good time. Draw a line through his latest at 1300M when drawn widest because he gets a much better gate this time and comes down in weight. Returning to the debut makers and (7) K N GOLDEN KING and (9) YEONGWON FIGHTER look next best.

Selections(8) Austin Leader (1) Bulgeun Pokpung (2) Maguma (7) K N Golden King
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 12

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies. (11) RAON EMPIRE has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far most recently over this distance on Christmas Day when handy and running on. She has a strong finish so the wide draw may not be a hindrance and while she has twice been a beaten favourite, it could be third time lucky here. (5) PEERLESS is the main danger. She has finished 3rd in both starts so far with the latest being at this distance on January 14th in a tight finish. It was a good time and from a good draw she can sit behind the speed and run on strong. Those two look a cut above the rest with (9) DAERYUN SIDAE the clear next best. That’s based on her latest effort on January 15th when stepped up to this trip for the first time and settling back and running on for 4th. (4) HERO GANGJA and (7) SKY TEN others who can potentially improve.

Selections(11) Raon Empire (5) Peerless (9) Daeryun Sidae (4) Hero Gangja
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens and it’s hard to look past (8) DAEWANG SOCKS.  After a midfield finish on debut over 1000M when slowly away and running on he was on pace at start number two over this distance on Christmas Eve, having overcome the widest gate, and ultimately finished a very close 2nd to the favourite. Although he draws wide again, the smaller field should enable him to get an easier run and he will be difficult to get past. (9) GEUMBIT CHEONHA has shown progress over four starts so far with his best finish being his most recent when 3rd over 1300M on January 14th having settled back from a wide draw. He comes down slightly in the weights here and will be running on strongly again. (3) CHOEGANG HYEONMA is another seemingly on the right trajectory having improved on his second outing on January 8th, settling midfield and running on for 3rd, ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He can aim to match or better that here. (7) SECRET WANGJA and (4) TUAREG NINE others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) Daewang Socks (9) Geumbit Cheonha (3) Choegang Hyeonma (7) Secret Wangja
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) MAGLE DAY was an improved 2nd at start number three over this distance on January 14th when handy to the lead and then running on well stopping the clock in a fast time. He draws well to be on or close to the pace again today and won’t need to improve much here in order to win. (8) RAON THE CHARLIE enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at 1200M and 1300M having settled back and run on both times. He has the fastest finish of all of these and will be coming home strong again here. (6) EFFEL TAP should be on pace from a good draw. Moon Se-young rode him on his best finish to date when 3rd at 1200M last October and he can go well in this company from the front. (5) THUNDER BRAVO is rarely too far away and comes up to this trip for the first time. (7) DONGBANG SAGI another in the frame.

Selections(4) Magle Day (8) Raon The Charlie (6) Effel Tap (5) Thunder Bravo
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

(1) STRENGTH made all to get his maiden win at start number three over 1200M on January 14th, winning by as many as he pleased. It was an eye-catching performance and while he is up in class and slightly in trip today, he draws the same inside gate and it would be no surprise were he to repeat. (4) RAON AMERICAN is winless in five outings but got promoted to this class with a pair of runner-up finishes. He measured up well on his first try at this level when 4th over 1200M on January 15th and under a light weight again looks firmly in this. Another yet to win, in her case from eleven attempts, is (3) MORNING PEARL. She is very consistent though and has a 2nd and two 3rd place finishes among her latest four outings all at this class. She tends to settle back and run on, and it would be a surprise if she didn’t run into a place again here. (10) DESIRE TO WIN is another up in class following a maiden score, which came over 1400M on January 15th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can be competitive. (9) SUNGAN TOUCH another in at least the placing frame.

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday where there are 9 races from 11:00 to 18:00:

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

Debut-maker (6) BLACK MAMBA trialled very nicely, settling off the pace and then running on strongly to cross the line in front in a good time on a very wet track without being asked for very much. First up at 1300M should suit, and if he brings that form to the races, he has every chance.  (12) UNJU OREUM was much improved when stepped up to 1200M for start number two on January 13th, settling midfield, then dropping further back before running on well for 2nd. She was a long way behind a good winner but the additional half furlong can be to her benefit and the wide draw shouldn’t matter. (1) DALLILLAEYO has been knocking at the door in his latest couple with a 3rd place at 1200M followed by a 4th when tried at a mile. He draws nicely on the inside today and should be a threat. (4) HAERANG THE ONE and (3) FLYING AARON among others with placing chances.

Selections(6) Black Mamba (12) Unju Oreum (1)  Dallillaeyo (4) Haerang The One
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 11

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies. (7) GOLDEN WAVE will be a warm favourite, having run on an pace 2nd on debut over 1200M on January 6th, well beaten by a good winner but having had to overcome gate eleven. She had previously shown well in a trial and with some natural improvement from her debut, may take some beating here. (10) U PING is done no favours by the draw but should have enough speed about her to get a forward position. She has been on pace in both her 2nd and 3rd place from her two starts to date and shapes as the main danger to the favourite here. (11) AQUA MAGIC ran 4th behind Golden Wave in that January 6th race, having sat handy throughout. She is another not favoured by the draw but can go close. (6) HAPPY TAEYANG and (1) UNMATCHED are potential improvers.

Selections(7) Golden Wave (10) U Ping (11) Aqua Magic (6) Happy Taeyang
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start6, 7, 10, 11

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

Standard maiden here and while (6) WIDAEHAN SEONTAEK remains scoreless from eleven starts, he come sin off his best finish to date when 2nd over 1200M on December 18th when settling midfield and running on. The engagement of a 4kg claiming apprentice means he carries even less weight this time, and today could well be his day. (12) PLAY THE INDY also has a runner-up finish to his name, achieved two starts back over this distance. He weakened having led over 1300M at his latest outing last month but while he does draw wide, can be given another chance here. (1) DOCTOR SHARK is yet to be in the top two but has finished between 3rd and 5th in no fewer than six of her seven starts to date. She comes back in trip today and should be close once more. (10) WONDERFUL APPEAL and (4) TWOTWO FLYING among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(6) Widaehan Seontaek (12) Play The Indy (1) Doctor Shark (10) Wonderful Appeal
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(1) SPECIAL ROAD is yet to finish any worse than 3rd from three outings to date and got her win at class 6 level two starts back when making all over this distance in an all-filly maiden in a good time. She then ran a front running 3rd when stepped up to 1300M for her first try at this class, again in filly company. She draws a great gate, carries a light weight and has every chance of leading all the way again. (7) BUDDY BUDDY made all on his second start to win over 1000M before finishing 5th of eight in the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy for juveniles. He weakened late over 1400M on his most recent start n January 6th but should find this more suitable. (2) BEOLGYOUI KKUM is another all the way winner, his coming at start number two over this distance. He then led on his first try at this class over 1400M just two weeks ago, ultimately finishing in 4th place and is another who may appreciate the step back in trip. (5) DIABLO QUEEN and (8) PHANTOM ACE – the latter up in class here but one of few fancies who should be happy to take a sit and avoid a speed duel – others to consider.

Selections(1) Special Road (7) Buddy Buddy (2) Beolgyoui Kkum (5) Diablo Queen
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

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

Fillies and mares only here and this lot really know how to mix their form so we need to catch one on a good day. That could be (12) SKY JEJUHYANG who seems to alternate good performances with poor ones. Her latest fell into the latter category but if we go on her showing two starts back when runner-up at class and distance then she has to be in with a chance. She does carry more weight than that day and has drawn wide but against this modest opposition, has as good a chance as any. (4) QUEEN OF SPIRIT is another who needs a line drawn through her latest effort but before that ran 4th and 2nd at 1300M and 1400M, both at this class. She tends to get a bit far back but similar runs to those two put her in with a winning chance here. (3) A. ONCE came out of gate ten and from off the pace to run 4th at class and distance on January 27th. She comes out of a better gate here and under a light weight, can be in the hunt. (1) KF OGONG and (5) TITAN K others who can place on their day.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (February 5)

There is Sunday racing at both Seoul (11 races from 10:40 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:05 to 15:40). Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. (8) META BLADE will be the favourite. Having run 2nd on debut over 1000M, she followed up with 4th and 3rd in two starts over today’s trip, last time out coming from midfield to finish off well. She can settle back again here and should be too strong. (4) JAEWOO SIDAE comes in off a promising 3rd place at this distance on January 8th. She’s not shown a whole lot in terms of speed but draws nicely here and an apprentice keeps her weight light. (10) YUKWAEHAN SARANG is done no favours by the draw but ran 4th, just half a length behind Meta Blade in November over 1200M. She followed up with a 5th on Christmas Eve and while she may need a touch of luck at the start, she has claims. (6) ÉCLAIR STAR and (7) CANDY GLOW among plenty of others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(8) Meta Blade (4) Jaewoo Sidae (10) Yukwaehan Sarang (6) Éclair Star
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens with five of the ten racing for the very first time. (5) GOOD MAGIC will be favourite, based upon her runner-up finish on debut over this distance on January 8th when she sat just behind the early speed and while well beaten by a good winner, she stopped the clock in a decent time and with some natural improvement, should prove too good. The main dangers lurk in the first-time starters. (6) SINHAE MANGCHI went through three trials, winning the most recent of them in January when on pace throughout. If he brings that form to the races, he will go very close. (7) RAON STRONG looked well when 2nd in a trail late last November. He too can put in a bold showing first-up. Also looking good in trials was (10) BEOMHAN GOLD, who won a heat on January 7th when handy and running on. The draw isn’t ideal but with a touch of luck, he can be in this too. Returning to those with experience, (2) GLOBAL SARANG is perhaps the one with most potential to improve.

Selections(5) Good Magic (6) Sinhae Mangchi (7) Raon Strong (10) Beomhan Gold
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

Three-year-old maidens with three of the ten racing for the first time. The only one who has shown anything resembling form is (6) JUMONG CHEONHA and he accordingly will be the odds-on favourite He was 4th on debut and then 2nd at start number two, both over 1000M. He hasn’t appeared for fourteen weeks, and he does come up in trip but if he runs at anything like his previous level, he won’t be beaten here. (1) RAON HOLIDAY has finished no better than 7th across four starts so far. He has run some fair times though from a good draw, won’t need to improve much to place here. Of the first-time starters, (5) THEME TANSAENG trialled up the best crossing the line 4th of seven back in November. That form in this race will see him close. (2) SSEULMO and (8) ARGO SMILE others who could potentially improve.

Selections(6) Jumong Cheonha (1) Raon Holiday (5) Theme Tansaeng (2) Sseulmo
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies and it’s a competitive race. (8) GOHEUNG CLASSS has raced three times, notching a 2nd place over 1000M before finishing 3rd on her first try over 1200M on January 6th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She can lead or settle back and run on and the additional half furlong may well be to her benefit. (1) DUBAI PYEONGJEONG has made steady progress across her latest three appearances, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on January 8th when overcoming the widest gate. Her style has been to settle back and run on, but she gets a great draw this time and can be a big danger. (10) FLYING DIA has run fairly for two 4th place finishes from her two prior appearances and should be aiming to match or better that here. (6) FLYING TOUCH and (9) MOVIE MORE among others with potential to improve.

Selections(8) Goheung Class (1) Dubai Pyeongjeong (10) Flying Dia (6) Flying Touch
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 11

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

(6) SUPREME STAR will be expected to break through here. She hasn’t finished outside of the top-five across six prior outings and comes in off a smart 3rd place over this distance on January 7th when settling midfield and finishing well. She has run consistent times on her best form as shown so far, she can win. The main danger is (4) UNICORN KINGDOM His best finish so far is a 2nd place over 1000M two starts back but ran fairly on his first try at this distance on December 17th. He draws nicely here and should get an easy run to the speed and be in this a long way. The form falls off a bit after those two but (7) FOUR ACE enters off back-to-back 4th places, both at this distance and beating a couple of these in the latest of them. She should be aiming to match or better in this company. (2) ARGO MUJEOK has a 3rd place to his name two starts back and draws well here. (3) ARCH RIVER another with potential to improve.

Selections(6) Supreme Star (4) Unicorn Kingdom (7) Four Ace (2) Argo Mujeok
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

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

(4) DOCTOR TIFFANY was an all the way winner over 1200M on January 6th, winning by plenty. She comes up in class and boldly up in trip, but she comes down in the weights, draws very nicely, and she could win again. It won’t be easy though. (8) BARAMBARAM’s only disappointment to date came in the Breeders’ Cup champion juvenile race in December when slowly away and failing to get a foothold. He has two positive runs over 1400M though and the step up in trip may suit (10) GREEN PAPAGO is a model of consistency who is rarely far away and has beaten a few of these across her latest few outings. She should beat plenty again, (6) CHEONMA HASEO beat Barambaram when the pair ran 2nd and 4th respectively over 140M on January 13th. He doesn’t exactly win out of turn, but he knows who to pick up a minor cheque and has done so at class and distance on more than one occasion. (3) ROCK AND ROLL is up in class and in trip following a maiden win at start two over 1300M on January 6th. He comes down in the weights and draws well.

Selections(4) Doctor Tiffany (8) Barambaram (10) Green Papago (6) Cheonma Haseo
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

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

It’s hard to go too far past (8) WONDERFUL TIZZY here. He ran a good 2nd – albeit well beaten by a very good winner – over 1200M two start s back, before finishing an adequate 5th of ten in a slow race over 1300M on January 8th. Without the benefit of an apprentice claim today, he comes up 3kg in the weights but that’s balanced by Antonio climbing aboard, and in this company, he should be able to get a prominent position early and potentially lead all the way. (6) GOLD KAISER is yet to finish in the top two but has finished between 3rd and 5th on five occasions from her ten starts and that’s enough to put her in the frame here. Similarly (5) BEST PLAN has two 3rd places to her name, most recently three starts back in a good time over 1300M. Like every other runner, she comes up to the 1400M for the first time and she can be close. (10) MONEY STONE and (1) JANGHEUNG CLASS, the latter who perhaps could be most suited to the step up in trip, are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) Wonderful Tizzy (6) Gold Kaiser (5) Best Plan (10) Money Stone
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(1) WIND WINNER comes in having missed the top-four on only one of nine occasions so far. His latest saw him run 3rd over this class and distance when emerging from the widest gate on January 8th then racing midfield and running on. He carries the same weight today and from a much better draw, can win. Disputing favourite status will be (11) STAR MATTA. He too has been super-consistent and enters off a class and distance win on January 13th when prominent throughout and beating three of today’s rivals. The engagement of an apprentice jockey means he carries less weight this time and while the draw is a touch wider than ideal, he has every chance. (2) B.J. CHIEF was 6th behind Star Matta in that January 13th race having worked hard to get to the lead from the widest gate. The draw is much kinder today and the same apprentice keeps his carried weight light. (4) YONGCHEON comes up in class and in distance after a good win over a mile – beating B. J. Chief – in early December. He can measure up in this company. (10) SINJIN GANGHO another in the minor money frame.

Selections(1) Wind Winner (11) Star Matta (2) B.J. Chief (4) Yongcheon
Next Best10, 12
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 12

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

(6) BEST SUN was a winner on debut over 1000M last October and comes in off a front-running 3rd place over this class and distance on January 7th. He will surely be on pace here and has every chance of going all the way. The primary danger is (3) SECRET PLAY. He got his win over 1200M two starts back when settling right back and running on before trying the same and ultimately finishing 4th on his first try at this class on January 8th. He draws well and the slight step up in trip should suit. (8) SMART POWER is another consistent type who may not win out of turn but is rarely far away. She comes back in trip after back-to-back 4th place finishes at 1700M and 1400M but has run quick times at 1200M too and is firmly in the money frame again. (11) CRAZY LOVE and (1) DAECHEON BEAUTY – the latter out of sorts last time out – are others who can enter the calculations.

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are 12 races from 10:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener with five of the eleven racing for the first time. The favourite is the only one who has raced twice already. (3) RICH GATE was 5th on debut over 1000M in October before improving to 2nd when stepped up to 1200M at start number two on December 11th. From a good draw he can be on pace here and it should third time lucky. The most convincing dangers also have prior experience. (11) S.I. COCO overcame the same widest draw as today to go down a narrow 2nd on debut over 1000M on Christmas Day. It was a slowly run race, but he was doing his best work late and the step up in trip can suit. (8) SMARTY FIGHTER went through a plethora of trials before running 5th on debut at this distance, also on Christmas Day, and should benefit from the experience. Of the debut-makers (2) HEUIMANGUI CHANGA and (10) CHEONJI SKY look the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(3) Rich Gate (11) S.I. Coco (8) Smarty Fighter (2) Heuimangui Changa
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 10

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies here with three of the eleven racing for the first time. (4) ANYANG POKKYEOKGI is set to be hot favourite, based on her latest two which both ended in 3rd place, most recently over this distance on Christmas Day when overcoming the widest gate to lead. From a much better draw, she should get a more comfortable run today and may take some beating. Clear second favourite is (5) LADY TAEPUNG. She sat handy on debut over this distance on January 7th, finishing 3rd in a slowly run race and with some natural improvement, she can get closer today. (9) FALL IN LOVE looks the pick of the first timers. She went through two trials, improving significantly in the 2nd when 3rd across the line in a fair time having sat midfield and run on. The distance should suit first up, and a bold showing is possible. (2) MUNHAK CENTRAL and (11) BARAMUI HYANGGI others in the frame.

Selections(4) Anyang Pokkyeokgi (5) Lady Taepung (9) Fall In Love (2) Munhak Central
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens. (8) SAENAE KHAN comes in with a 2nd and two 4th places from three outings to date, most recently as beaten favourite over this distance on January 7th. He led that day on what was his first stretch out at further than 1000M and he can go all the way this time. That will mean overturning the form on (10) BULUI NALGAE, who has really mixed his performances across four starts so far, two good and two poor. He was 3rd in the January 7th race having sat right back and then made ground late on passing tired horses. He shapes as the danger here along with (5) GEOSEN CHAMP who like Saenae Khan, has run 4th in both his latest two. He posted a good time over 1200M two starts back and can settle back and run on here. The form drops off a bit after those three but (1) LEGEND K and (9) BLACK GUN have hinted at ability and can be place chances.

Selections(8) Saenae Khan (10) Bului Nalgae (5) Geosen Champ (1) Legend K
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A regular but very tricky maiden. There’s no clear favourite so we’ll take a chance on (2) TES MARY who has raced just twice, improving to 2nd on January 8th over 1200M when drawn wide and settling right back and running on. She draws much better here and should be running on strong again. (8) TWO ACE is yet to score in sixteen but has been ultra-consistent of late with a 2nd and two 4th place finished from his latest three. An apprentice keeps the weight light here and today could be his day. (11) JEONGWOO FOREVER is, like Tes Mary, another who can still have improvement in him. He has raced just three times and has finished no worse than 5th. He has finished off his races well and the step up in trip can be to his benefit. (1) BARAMSAL and the returning (3) ARCH SIN, who was on pace when requalifying in a trial a month ago, are among others who can place.

Selections(2) Tes Mary (8) Two Ace (11) Jeongwoo Forever (1) Baramsal
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

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

(3) SUPER FINISH has finished no worse than 5th in four starts so far but remains a maiden. He is up in class here having got his second runner-up finish over this distance on Christmas Eve. He comes down slightly in the weights, draws very nicely and in a race that isn’t much stronger than he would have faced at class 6, he is the one to beat. It’s a very similar story with (6) GEUMSEONG SIDAE. He’s never finished any worse than 4th and comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes, both times when on pace and most recently over this distance on January 8th. He comes down 2kg in the weights and has solid claims here. (9) HIT POWER was a winner on debut over 1000M being finishing down the field in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy. Though he could only mange 8th on his most recent outing at this distance on Christmas Eve, the time was good, and he beat a couple of today’s rivals. He should be much closer in this company. (4) COWBOY TANGO and (2) BIG SMART, the latter needing to be forgiven his latest effort, the logical other money chances.

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 9-race card from 11:00 to 18:00. Seo Seung-un, who rode a remarkable 14 winners in January, is suspended while You Hyun-myung had surgery following a fall last week and will be out for some months. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener and there will be a hot favourite. (7) DAHAMKKEDALLIJA has raced twice so far, finishing 3rd on both occasions most recently over this trip in a good time on January 13th when handy and running on. He will be up to class 5 with any top-three finish and can be expected to win here. (1) POWER PLANE was a much improved 4th at start number two over 1200M on January 8th settling back and running on. The additional half-furlong should suit and he gets a much better draw today. (2) SUPER KANEL also showed marked improvement on his latest appearance four weeks ago, running on for 2nd over this trip. With an apprentice engaged today he comes down significantly in the weights and should be going close again. (8) NAKDONG JEONSAN and (9) STORMY DAY others with the potential to improve.

Selections(7) Dahamkkedallija (1) Power Plane (2) Super Kanel (8) Nakdong Jeonsa
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start2, 8, 10, 11

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

More three-year-old maidens and another hot favourite. This time it is (9) MY MANTRA. After running 5th of twelve over 1000M on debut in November, Peter Wolsley’s filly was an on pace runner-up when stepped up to this trip on December 18th. Despite being drawn a touch wide, she can be on pace again and should be too good for this lot. (8) DOCTOR CUCKOO comes in having run a very solid time over this distance on his latest start on January 15th. His 4th place that day, coming from off the pace, was his best so far and he can continue to make progress here. (7) HONOR LORD raced twice over 1000M late last summer. He comes in here having looked very well across two trials and will be backed first-up. There are two first time starters and both (4) GREEN LEGEND and (2) YONGSAN KEUNBYEUL did enough in their trials to suggest they can measure up in this somewhat limited company. Both should be on pace from good draws.

Selections(9) My Mantra (8) Doctor Cuckoo (7) Honor Lord (4) Green Legend
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

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

Standard maiden here. (7) SOUTHERN JOY has been relatively consistent across her five outings to date and her runner-up finish on her latest start on January 6th when she overcame the widest draw to settle midfield and run on for 2nd place is enough for her to get the nod here. (2) FAST FURY could only manage 6th when well supported in the same race, but she previously ran the quickest time of all of these at the distance when runner-up back in October. She should be on the speed again here and can be in this a long way. (11) THEIA ran fairly for 5th on debut over 1300M on January 13th. She should have come on for that experience and with some natural improvement may offer some value at an each-way price. (6) GOLDEN RACER and (8) ALPHA BRAVO are others who have demonstrated ability and can be in the money frame here.

Selections(7) Southern Joy (2) Fast Fury (11) Theia (6) Golden Racer
Next Best8, 12
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It could be thirteenth time lucky for (3) YEOSU TORNADO here. He’s been knocking at the door in his latest few and most recently got his first runner-up finish when overcoming a wide draw to sit handy to the speed and then run on over this distance on January 13th. He draws much better today and a similar run can see him home on top. The main danger looks to be (7) ARTHUR KING IJI. He was 3rd in that January 13th race on what for him too was his first try at a mile having raced prominently throughout. He has three-lengths to find on Yeosu Tornado but perhaps has more scope for further improvement than the favourite. (12) HAMAN BAEIKISAN was 5th in that race having settled back and running on when it was too late. He was runner-up at this distance two starts back and with the same apprentice keeping the weight down, he can run into some money again. (1) ECTON POWER and (6) SPECIAL FACT among others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Yeosu Tornado (7) Arthur King Iji (12) Haman Baekisan (1) Ecton Power
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 9

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

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Segye Ilbo Trophy Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (January 29)

The Stakes race program for 2023 finally gets underway at Seoul on Sunday when Raon First and Raon The Spurt head the field for the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy over 1200M. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:05 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Raon First faces danger from her own stablemate in the Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener with all at least one start behind them and (10) TOUCH CHARM will be the warm favourite. She ran 3rd on debut over 1000M on November 26th before improving to 2nd on her next start on December 18th when stepped up to 1200M in filly only company. She comes up in trip again, and slightly in weight, but she should have too much. (8) NEULGAEUL is the only one in the field to have prior experience of this distance having finished a close 3rd on December 17th. That experience should stand him in good stead for this and he can be the main danger. (2) KARIZMA ran fairly enough for a midfield finish on debut over 1000M a month ago. He should have derived benefit from that and can improve today. (6) BEST CLONE returns after almost five months out and looked well in a trial earlier this month and along with (9) INDIANUI BYEOL, who began his career with a 2nd and a 3rd, can be considered for a place.

Selections(10) Touch Charm (8) Neulgaeul (2) Karizma (6) Best Clone
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 10

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

(10) HWANGOO MONEY has come from well off the pace to run 3rd in both starts to date, both over 1200M and both from gate eleven. The wide draw certainly won’t be an issue and the additional half furlong should give him plenty of time to get the job done this time. (4) FAST GUN was anything but fast out of the gates on debut over 1000M on December 16th, but he finished off swiftly enough, passing plenty to finish 3rd. He should have come on for the run and he is another for who the extra distance can suit. (2) BRAVE CAPTAIN was much closer to the pace on her debut, scampering across from gate nine and ultimately running 4th over 1000M. With some natural improvement and from a better draw, she can match or better that today. (7) K GOLD BAR and others (9) SKY PUNCH are others who are in the placing hunt.

Selections(10) Hwangoo Money (4) Fast Gun (2) Brave Captain (7) K Gold Bar
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

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

Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the very first time. That experienced one didn’t do anything on debut to warrant recommendation so it’s to the trial videos we turn and the one who caught the eye the most was (5) TAMRA CHOEGANGJA. He sat handy in his heat before finishing well to cross the line in front, stopping the clock in a fair time. If he brings that form to the races, he won’t need to improve much to win this. (3) FANCY PLAY recorded the second fastest time in trials when leading in a heat in early December, ultimately finishing 2nd. He draws well to be on pace here and should be in it a long way. (12) CHECK POINT went through the same trial as Tamra Choegangja and while he does have five-lengths to make up, he ran on well and neither the wide draw nor the trip should be a hindrance first-up. Speaking of the trip, that sole one with experience, (7) THIS WEEKEND was slowly away and with a better start and in the absence of too many standout first-timers, can improve. (9) COMPLETE LEADER another debut-maker to keep an eye on.

Selections(5) Tamra Choegangja (3) Fancy Play (12) Check Point (7) This Weekend
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

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

(6) HANEUL JEWANG enters off an improved 2nd place at this distance on December 16th when settling handy and finishing well to record a time faster than any of the others here have managed for the distance. He should be on or close to the speed again and in this company, will be warm favourite to go one better. The main danger is (8) META QUEEN. She was 5th behind Haneul Jewang in that December race but at the start before registered a runner-up finish of her own when on pace over 1000M. This is just her fourth career start and there could be some more improvement. (9) WONDERFUL CHACHA ran an improved 4th on his latest outing over 1300M on December 2nd. An apprentice keeps the weight light and he be in the mix here too. (10) SKY SHOT and (4) UNJU MACH among other minor money contenders.

Selections(6) Haneul Jewang (8) Meta Queen (9) Wonderful Chacha (10) Sky Shot
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start6, 8, 10, 11

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

More three-year-old maidens with all but one of the twelve having raced at least once before. The debut-maker is notable though as he is set to be favourite. (3) JANGSAN SPO blitzed a trial in November, stopping the clock in a fast time some fourteen lengths clear of the next across the line. That showing, coupled with the modest opposition he faces here, makes him a heavy favourite, despite the big gap between trial and race. Only two of the experienced ones have positive form. (5) BEAT RUNNER is the clear second pick with a 6th and a 4th in two starts at 1000M and 1200M, the latter at this distance and both in fair times. A similar showing will see him place again. Draw a line through (4) MENI POCKET’s second appearance and instead go on her debut last summer and she is clear third choice although the length of time between starts isn’t reassuring. (8) CLAIR QUEEN and (11) GREEN SPECTER potential improvers.

Selections(3) Jangsan Spo (5) Beat Runner (4) Meni Pocket (8) Clair Queen
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Tricky race. We’ll take a chance on (9) WITH SUN, who was a strong winner on debut over 1200M in November when coming from off the pace before running 4th in a slow race over this distance on his first try at this level. The wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and today there should be a bit more early speed to chase down. The probable favourite is (2) BACKTOTHELEGEND. He overcame the widest gate to get on pace over 1200M on Christmas Day and ultimately went on to win well. He is up in class and in distance here but draws much better and has solid claims. (3) BYEOLGYOUI KKUM was an all the way winner at start number two over 1200M on Christmas Day. He too comes up in class and distance but draws well to get on the speed again and should be in this a long way. (11) ALL OR NOTHING ran out an eye-catching winner on debut in December. It was at 1000M, but he can measure up here. (1) FASHION FORCE ONE another in the frame.

Selections(9) With Sun (2) Backtothelegend (3) Beolgyoui Kkum (11) All Or Nothing
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

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

Fillies (and two mares) here. There is very little to choose between the top two, both up in class following maiden wins. The coin toss comes down on the side of (3) WONDERFUL SLEW, who came from off the pace on debut over 1200M on December 18th to just get up to for the win. She comes up in trip here, but it can suit, and she can win. That’s true too for (5) JEOMSUNI GO. She was slowly away on debut over 1000M before rattling home late for a desperately near miss. She then took a very tight victory second-up at 1200M on Christmas Eve. She too comes up in class and distance and there is very little between them. If you fancy them both to get beat, then (11) GREENBACK maybe the place to turn. She has plenty of experience of this level and enters in consistent form. The draw isn’t ideal but with a touch of luck at the start, she can run on. (7) TOUR QUEEN and (6) DUSON CLASSIC, who was slowly away last time but should be on pace here, are others to consider.

Selections(3) Wonderful Slew (5) Jeomsuni Go (11) Greenback (7) Tour Queen
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 11, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(10) EUNSEONG WINNER ran out a strong winner at class and distance on December 23rd, settling just behind the early speed before taking things up at the top of the stretch and winning well. A word of caution in that she was found to have bled for the first time but she came through the mandatory trial earlier this month without issue. (8) ARCTURUS was 4th in that same race having led for much of the way in what was his first try at two turns. He has won well at a mile and can be a danger today. (6) HORAENGI is yet to win in fifteen attempts but has no fewer than twelve top five finishes including on her last start on Christmas Day when she came from well off the pace to run a close 2nd over a mile. She comes up in class here but is nicely weighted and has placed more than once at this distance already. (2) I WILL BE FREE and the rapidly up in class having won his latest two (1) MACH WONDER, are among plenty of others to consider.

Selections(10) Eunseong Winner (8) Arcturus (6) Horaengi (2) I Will Be Free
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 8, 10, 12

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

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2023 Stakes Schedule Underway Sunday as Raons Clash in Segye Ilbo

Horses with the word “Raon” in their names took home eight Korean Listed or Graded races in 2022 and as the 2023 Stakes race season kicks off at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday with the Segye Ilbo Trophy (1200M KOR-Listed), two of those winners in the green silks of owner Son Chun-soo are set to be at the top of the market as the six-year-old mare and defending champion Raon First, clashes with up-and-coming stablemate and potential heir-apparent, four-year-old filly Raon The Spurt.

Choi Bum-hyun rode Raon First to President’s Cup glory but he gets on Raon The Spurt in Sunday’s Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

Last year’s winner RAON FIRST is the top filly or mare in Korea, with twelve wins from twenty-two starts and a hugely versatile repertoire as shown by her 3rd place in the Korea Sprint (1200M – IG3) last August and then her sensational victory in the President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) in November. It was a first ever victory for a filly or a mare in the nation’s most valuable race for older in-country bred runner, with Korea Cup champion Winner’s Man back in 3rd. Raon First finished off what had been a remarkable campaign with an in no way disgraced 6th place in the Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) as Winner’s Man returned to the summit.

In the early half of her three-year-old campaign, RAON THE SPURT was forced to play second fiddle in the Triple Tiara (filly Triple Crown) races, running 3rd in the Luna Stakes and then 2nd to Tiara winner Golden Power in both the Korean Oaks and Gyeonggi Govenor’s Cup. She finished off the season strongly though, winning the Singapore Turf Club Trophy at 1200M, running 2nd to Wish Me in the Jeju Govenor’s Cup (1400M KOR-G3) and then winning the Gyeongnam DoMin Ilbo Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Busan. Her star is very much in the ascendency.

Jockey Choi Bum-hyun has ridden both of the Park Jong-kon trained pair in recent starts. For their first head-to-head meeting, he rides Raon The Spurt.

It’s not necessarily a two-horse race though. WISH ME has done something she never usually does and drawn a good gate for a front-runner. She had to contend with gate eleven when 2nd to Raon The Spurt in the Singapore Turf Club Trophy over 1200M in September, before reversing the form with a stunning track-record breaking performance in the Jeju Governor’s Cup from gate twelve. She found 2000M was not her go last time out, but back in sprinting territory and from the plum barrier two, she can’t be ruled out.

While it’s the fillies and mares who are most favoured, the race is open to males as well and a strong set have shown up. DAEHAN JILJU was a break-out 4th in the Korea Sprint last September before running 2nd to that day’s winner Eoma Eoma in the Kookje Shinmun Trophy (1400M Listed) at Busan on October. He is capable of running fast times and the wide draw should prove no distraction. Group winner EAST JET as well as the in form JANGSAN LASER, 4th in the President’s Cup, are among others who can provide testing material.

Only one Busan-trained horse has made the trip to the capital. That’s HAPPY FEVER, a six-year-old who, while he doesn’t win out of turn, enters in consistent form and has posted fast times. At his best he can challenge for some minor money. Jockey Kim Hye-sun has come with him to ride at her former track and has picked up five additional rides across the weekend.

The Segye Ilbo Cup is race 8 on an 11-race program at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon with a local post time of 16:35.

Selections: (4) Raon The Spurt (1) Raon First (2) Wish Me (12) Daehan Jilju