The Korean Triple Crown of 2022 reaches its climax on Sunday afternoon and while the Triple Crown itself isn’t on the line, champion three-year-old honours very much are as KRA Cup Mile winner Captain Yankee and Derby winner Winner Star are among a full sixteen-strong field in the Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G2).
Winner Star won the Derby (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)
Captain Yankee was a 40/1 winner of the first jewel, the KRA Cup Mile (1600M KOR-G3) at Busan on April 17th, launching a late run to thread through leaders Complete Value and Seungbusa to score. Winner Star was an impressive winner of the Derby (1800M KOR-G1) at Seoul on May 15th, swooping from a handy position and winning by two lengths from Seungbusa and Captain Yankee.
This time they have an additional furlong to contend with as well as a maximum field of sixteen. In addition to Winner Star and Captain Yankee, Seungbusa, with a 3rd and a 2nd from Cup Mile and Derby returns, as does Complete Value, last year’s champion juvenile, who was sent off as favourite for both races, finishing 2nd and 6th. A bold showing in the final leg can’t be ruled out from the son of Girolamo and he could end up being sent off as favourite again.
Wow Wow and Tiz Barows produced strong Derby performances and may appreciate the additional distance while among those who skipped one or both of the first two legs of the series, Beomi Naeyeo Onda and Burui Geom look perhaps the most likely to step up.
Beomi Naryeo Onda will be ridden by Franco Da Silva, one of four foreign jockeys to have rides in the race. Djordje Perovic will partner Winner Star, as he did in their Derby success, while Johan Victoire will be aboard Tiz Barows, and David Breux on Nubi Gangja.
The Minister’s Cup is race 8 on a 10-race program at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday. Here is the horse-by-horse:
1. FLYING THE CHAMP [Cowboy Cal – Thebignbadestbunny (Smart Strike)]
5(2/1/1) KRW 62,800,000
O: Kim Hyeong-sun T: An Woo-sung J: Park Jae-i
Class 5 winner over 1400M at Busan before stepping up to 1800M at class 4 and running 2nd to Burui Geom. Top jockey comes up from Busan to ride him and a money finish is possible.
2. TEN BAGGER [Cowboy Cal – Sugar Victory (Peace Rules)]
There are 9 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open with admission available on the gate. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Tricky maiden for three-year-olds to open with but we’ll side with the favourite. (6) MAGIC MOCCASIN has two 4th place finishes and a 3rd from three starts so far with the 3rd coming at her latest start at this distance on May 7th when handy throughout. It wasn’t a fast time but she draws well here to get to the lead and she won’t need to improve too much on that performance to win. (5) CLASSIC STAR ran a solid 3rd on debut in an all-filly race on April 16th. She should have benefited from that experience and with some natural improvement can run well again today. (1) CHANCELLOR improved at start number two on May 1st when running on pleasingly enough at this distance for 3rd and from a great draw on the inside, he can aim to bank some money. (2) LONDON MYEONGGA has the fastest time among these at the distance and can be competitive from a good draw. (7) K N TIZWON among others with placing claims
Selections
(6) Magic Moccasin (5) Classic Star (1) Chancellor (2) London Myeongga
Next Best
7, 8
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 6
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
More three-year-old maidens. (8) DAPHNE unseated her jockey coming out of the gate when coming out of the gate having been sent off as favourite at this distance on May 29th. She was due to be first-up that day following almost six months out and had trialed nicely. She completed the course under her own steam that day and as long as that didn’t take too much out of her, she can be given another chance here. (1) DAECHEON BEAUTY has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place last time out at this distance on May 14th when on pace throughout. He draws the same gate today and can go well. (7) GANA FASHION was a good 2nd on debut at this distance on May 15th when settling forward, then dropping back and running on. She was well beaten by a good winner but it was encouraging nonetheless and a repeat of that run will see her in the finish again. (11) TOP POSITION and (3) CHAPEL PRINCESS can enter the calculations too.
Selections
(8) Daphne (1) Daecheon Beauty (7) Gana Fashion (11) Top Position
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
3, 6, 7, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
A weak maiden but accordingly a very competitive one with no standouts but plenty of possibles. We’ll take a chance on (7) BARO QUEEN, who carries a lighter weight and draws a better gate than in her recent outings. She has two 3rd places to her name, has enough early speed compared with the rest of these to get to the front, and she has as good a chance as any. (1) QUEEN OF RACING has been relatively consistent across her most recent starts. She too draws well to contest the early lead and she will be in this a long way. (2) BURUI JILJU has mixed his form in his four starts so far but has hinted at ability with his 3rd place in a fair time over 1200M two starts back. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races but the additional half furlong today may suit. (6) TIZ FIGHTING and (9) EUREKA among others in minor money contention.
Selections
(7) Baro Queen (1) Queen Of Racing (2) Burui Jilju (6) Tiz Fighting
Next Best
9, 4
Fast Start
1, 6, 7, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(8) JAY PHOENIX debuted with an encouraging 3rd last December but didn’t reappear until May 8th when he made all to win by a full nine-lengths over this distance. He comes up in class today but the manner of that victory suggests that there is more to come and he has to go on top here. (3) COMPLETE TIME looks the logical second-pick. She races for the first-time since March 13th when she came from a wide gate to run 3rd in a fast time at this distance. She draws better here and even comes down slightly in the weights, and she can play a big role. (5) BLOOD MOON also gets a better draw than she did when 5th on her first try at this class on May 8th and can go closer today. (6) LONDON SKY has two 4th place finishes in two attempts at this class, both over today’s distance and both in times good enough to make him a contender here. The up in class (4) HWIPARAM another who will be on the early speed and who can be considered.
The final leg of the 2022 Triple Crown, the Minister’s Cup will be run on Sunday at Seoul but the weekend’s action gets underway at Busan with an eight-race card on Friday running from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Friday
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener and it’s hard to go past (8) HUIMANG PUNCH. She debuted last October, beating just one home and then didn’t reappear until a trial in April. She was encouraging in that heat to the extent that she was well-fancied on her return to racing on May 13th when an on-pace 2nd at this distance. Her time for the 1200M was faster than any of the others here have achieved and she should win. (2) MORNING MUSE improved to 3rd place on her latest start on May 20th when she overcame a wide draw to sit handy and then ran on. She comes into a better gate today and can go close. (5) PURE MAGIC debuted in that May 29th race, running a solid 5th. He should have come on for that run and with some natural improvement can go closer this time. (6) EURO STAR and (1) WONDERFUL TRICKS among others with scope to improve.
Selections
(8) Huimang Punch (2) Morning Muse (5) Pure Magic (6) Euro Star
Next Best
1, 3
Fast Start
2, 5, 7, 8
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
More three-year-old maidens. It’s not a strong field so we’re willing to take a chance on one of the two first-time starters. (3) WIDAEHAN HAMAN enters having won a May trial in which she looked assured, breaking well and then responding to urging late on and running through the line well. The time wasn’t fast but she demonstrated enough to suggest a bold showing first-up is possible. (7) SEOGWI CHUKJE was an improved 3rd at start number four on May 6th when settling back in the field and running on. An apprentice keeps her weight very light and she can place again. (1) STAR MATTA was well-backed on debut on May 8th having won a trial in April in a fast time. While he settled handy, he didn’t quite see the race out and ended up only beating one home. He should have benefitted from that and could be a different prospect today. The other first-timer, (2) SILVER ROAD, trialed fairly and along with (6) TAP STAR is another to consider.
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(1) WONDERFUL BOBCAT enters in consistent form with a strong 2nd last time out when close to the pace over a mile. He has run well at this distance too and draws very nicely here to drop in behind the early speed and run on. This is his fourth start since returning from almost a year out and he could be peaking here. (10) MY SONG was a much-improved 2nd at her latest appearance on May 13th when she sat handy and ran on and while a long way behind a good winner, a similar run today will see her in the finish. (11) QUEEN’S DAERO beat both Wonderful Bobcat and My Song when 2nd at this distance on April 15th. That was her best result in eight starts so far and while she could only manage 6th behind My Song on her re-appearance last month, she should be competitive here. (3) RHIANNON POINT and (2) BLUE CAPTAIN are among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(1) Wonderful Bobcat (10) My Song (11) Queen’s Daero (3) Rhiannon Point
Next Best
2, 5
Fast Start
2, 3, 5, 10
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(2) WONDERFUL SECRET comes in having won just the once but with no fewer than eight top-four finishes from twelve starts. That includes his latest on May 13th when at this class and distance he beat three of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place having settled midfield and run on behind a good winner. From a good draw he will be on pace here and is the one to beat. (7) CENTUM THOR is yet to win in sixteen attempts but is ultra-consistent with thirteen top-five finishes. He has run good times at this distance and was 5th in the May 13th race. He comes down slightly in the weights here and can be competitive. (1) ADELE BOSS was 3rd in that same race having led for much of the way around. That was his first try around two turns and he should benefit from it. (3) DIA FORCE and (6) B J’S TERMS are others to take into consideration.
Selections
(2) Wonderful Secret (7) Centum Thor (1) Adele Boss (3) Dia Force
Next Best
6, 8
Fast Start
1, 2, 6, 7
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A maiden winner at this distance two starts back at class 6 level, (5) INDIE MAGIC ran a solid 3rd on his first try at this class on May 1st when settling back in the field and steadily improving. He looks to have scope for more development and from a fair gate will probably be a bit closer to the speed this time around and he can win. The biggest danger may well be his stablemate. (10) PURPLE MANGO comes up in class following an all the way score at this distance on May 15th. While the draw is not ideal, she can get forward again and a Rice-quinella looks a real possibility. Also up in class is (4) INTO MARINE. He similarly made all over this distance on March 4th and comes in fresh after three months. He comes down in the weights, draws well, and can go close. (8) SPICE INDIE and (3) JEONGDEUN-RO others in the frame.
The Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares gets underway on Sunday and Raon First will be hot favourite to score in the Ttukseom Cup (1400M KOR-G2). There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:35 to 16:15. Here are the previews:
Raon First will be favourite for the Ttukseom Cup (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener and (11) MARUMA is the one to beat. He has the fastest time among these at the distance, recorded at his last start on April 23rd when he sat in 3rd place the entire way around. The wide draw shouldn’t be too much of an issue and he won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. (10) TRIPLE JOY has raced fairly in two starts so far, finishing in 3rd and 5th. He steps up to this distance for the first time and can make further progress. (9) OCHEONBOK has come from off the pace in both of her races to date, finishing 4th and then 2nd, the latter at this distance on April 30th. She has posted impressive final furlong times and so long as she doesn’t get too far back, can be a danger late on. (1) GEUMA CHIC and (7) KING HONOR are others to take into consideration.
Selections
(11) Maruma (10) Triple Joy (9) Ocheonbok (1) Geuma Chic
Next Best
7, 12
Fast Start
6, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(1) ACE PLAN has looked to be working towards a win from his latest few appearances, culminating in a 3rd place last time out on May 21st when he was an on-pace 3rd at this distance. He returns just two weeks later and from a better draw, should be on or close to the pace from the start and he will be favoured to win here. Coming out of the opposite end of the gate will be (12) APPLE MINT. He has started to hit some form in his latest two and an apprentice jockey brings the weight down considerably today. He has settled midfield or worse in those two recent outings so the wide draw may not be too much of an inconvenience. (6) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE has four to-five finishes from six outings to date and can continue her solid run of form following a last start 3rd. (7) FLYING BARBIE and (11) TORUK MAKTO others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(1) Ace Plan (12) Apple Mint (6) Neoreul Eongwonhae (7) Flying Barbie
Next Best
11, 4
Fast Start
1, 6, 10, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
A competitive maiden for three-year-olds gets things underway on the south coast. We’ll go with (8) WORLD FOUR A, who after participating in a fast trial to qualify in April, ran a good 2nd on debut at 1200M on May 22nd when he was on pace throughout and led in the straight. He should have come on for that run and with some natural improvement can win here. (4) TRIPLE THUNDER is yet to finish any worse than 5th in four career outings. He was an on-pace 2nd at this distance on May 8th and form a nice draw, will be expected to be on the early speed again and to be in this a long way. (11) DOCTOR PERSIA has run fairly across three starts. He got a long way back last time out but ran on well enough for 5th and if given slightly more of a chance here, can get closer. (2) MAHAMERU and (1) WIND WINNER are others to consider.
Selections
(8) World Four A (4) Triple Thunder (11) Doctor Persia (2) Mahameru
Next Best
1, 9
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(12) GLOBAL PRIME returned from a couple of months out to run an improved 2nd in what was an admittedly slow race at this distance on April 10th. He had hinted at a bit of speed before though and despite the wide draw, in this company, he has every chance. (4) SPEED GALLOP has finished outside the top-five only once in five attempts so far. At her latest appearance back in February, she ran a good 3rd at this distance in an all-fily race having sat back from a wide draw. She comes in fresh here and can go close. (2) YONGCHEON JISANG was a much-improved 2nd at start number three on May 8th at this distance. He should have come on for that experience and can aim for at least the places again. (8) EPIPHANY and (6) KING MOUNTAIN are among others who may be considered for the minors.
Selections
(12) Global Prime (4) Speed Gallop (2) Yongcheon Jisang (8) Epiphany
Next Best
6, 3
Fast Start
5, 6, 11, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Fillies (and two mares) only here. It’s a full sixty-seven weeks since we saw (7) BLACK OLIVE make her one solitary appearance, but it was memorable as she led from gate to wire over 1000M scoring comfortably. Her setbacks hopefully behind, she caught the eye when fairly bolting up in a barrier trial in late April and having won first-up before, she can do so again, especially as she gets another crack at class 6 what with that race last year being run for significantly reduced prize money. (12) FANTASTIC MAGIC has hinted at ability across seven outings so far. She ran a good 4th at her latest on May 15th and can be running on well here. (9) HAPPY SONG SONG seemed to take a few goes to figure out what she’s supposed to do but she now has a pair of 3rd place finishes and a 4th from her latest three. (11) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL and (5) TAKE ADELE others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(7) Black Olive (12) Fantastic Magic (9) Happy Song Song (11) Seungriui Bulgil
Next Best
5, 4
Fast Start
5, 6, 7, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
A competitive race here with two standouts. We’ll tentatively side with (2) WILD SOCKS. He was a winner at this distance at class 6 level and comes in off a good 2nd place at 1300M at this class on May 21st when he settled midfield and ran on. He draws nicely here and can win. The big danger in (5) WONDERFUL KITTY. She may be yet to win in six starts but has three-runner-up finishes to her name, including on her latest start at class and distance on May 8th when, as has tended to be her style, she went right back and finished fast. An apprentice jockey brings her weight right down today and that could be crucial when she launches her late challenge. (10) TOUCH NINE comes up in class after a good win over this distance on May 15th. He drew wide that day as well and can measure up in this company. (9) GLOBAL BOBAE and (6) RIVER TAEYANG are others in the hunt.
Selections
(2) Wild Socks (5) Wonderful Kitty (10) Touch Nine (9) Global Bobae
Next Best
6, 1
Fast Start
3, 4, 6, 8
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
It’s hard to go too far past (11) DONGBU WORLD here. While he does remain a maiden after five attempts, he is yet to finish outside the top-four and has three runner-up finishes. That includes his latest outing, which was at this class and distance on May 13th when he was on pace throughout and went down narrowly. He does come up 2kg in the weights and may need a touch of luck at the start, given the wide draw, but he is still the one to beat. (3) ACE GUY races for the first time since last September. He had put together a good run of form before the layoff and looked well when trialing up at the end of April. He has a strong finish on him and a bold-showing is possible first-up here. (6) YOUNG BOSS has got a bit far back in his latest two races but there is ability there and he has won at this distance. He may be worth another chance here at a probable each-way price. (5) MONEY BAG and (1) MAJOR FORCE among others with placing chances.
Selections
(11) Dongbu World (3) Ace Guy (6) Young Boss (5) Money Bag
Next Best
1, 8
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 11
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (5) SIRIUS ALPHA got her maiden win two starts back over 1200M at class 6 level with an on-pace run and then overcame the widest gate to lead until the closing stages on her first try at this level over 1400M on May 1st. She looks nicely in here from a better draw to get to the lead and she may well go all the way. (3) WILD RUNNER comes up in class following smart win over 1200M when odds-on favourite at start number three on April 23rd. She stalked the leader before striking the front a furlong out and running away for a comfortable win. This is harder but she draws well to be on pace again and should measure up in this company. (4) CONCORD QUEEN weakened when in a promising position over 1400M on her first try at this class on May 1st. She was favourite that day having been a strong winner at class 6 over 1200M the time before and can be given another chance today. (8) CHEONEUNCHONG and (7) RISING HAWK others to look out for.
The filly Triple Crown – the “Triple Tiara” – comes to a close at Seoul Racecourse on Saturday with Golden Power, who has won the first two jewels, the Luna Stakes and Korean Oaks, looking to complete a clean sweep. The Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup is race 7 on a 9-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Golden Power once more faces Raon The SPurt and Chamjoeun Chingu (Pic KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open the program. (5) CHANGER is probably worthy of favourite status, following a good 2nd at his latest start on April 23rd over this distance when he led for much of the way around. From a good draw, he can lead again and this time can go all the way. (3) RAY BOLT was significantly improved at start number three on April 16th when settling midfield and running on for 2nd place. It was a slowly run race but she looks nicely in here again and can go close. (1) RUN BOY RUN won a trial in April and then ran a decent 2nd on debut on May 7th, racing handy throughout. He should have come on for the experience and with some natural improvement should be in the finish again. There are four first-time starters and among them, (9) HIDDEN BLADE looks the more likely to make an impression first-up. (8) CLASS HEEMANG has been through a lot of trials and ran on well from an unpromising position in the latest of them.
Selections
(5) Changer (3) Ray Bolt (1) Run Boy Run (9) Hidden Blade
Next Best
8, 6
Fast Start
1, 5, 10, 12
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Maiden fillies only here. (3) CAMP SAVER has steadily improved across six starts so far, culminating in 3rd place at this distance on May 7th when settling handy and running on. She was the beaten favourite that day but she looks well in here and from a good draw, should be looking for another career-best finish. (1) CHEONDUNG OREUM is the probable betting favourite, based on a last start 2nd place on April 24th when settling back and running on well with a couple of today’s rivals back down the track behind her. She draws nicely on the inside to drop in again and she will be working home well. (5) DONGSEO YEOGEOL enters off a useful 4th place at this distance on March 20th in a fast, though wet assisted, time. She’ll be challenging Camp Saver for the early lead and can be in this a long way. (11) GUK HYANG was one of those beaten by Cheondung Oreum on April 24th and while drawn wide again can get closer today. (9) AL SIMON another in the placing frame.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(2) MIRACLE DAUGHTER’s maiden win had been coming and it arrived in emphatic style as she made all to score by nine-lengths over this distance on April 30th. She comes up in class here but keeps a nice light weight, draws very nicely and the manner of that win suggests there can be more to come. (7) MAKALU POWER returns to action for the first time since December when finally broke through at the twenty-first time of asking. It came at this class over 1400M and while he comes up in weight and will probably need this run, he looked sharp when trialing on May 13th and can go well first-up at an each-way price here. (6) GREENBACK took a couple of races to get accustomed to this level. Having previously raced forward, including on her maiden win at 1000M, last time out she was slowly away and went right back, running on well for 4th. She carries a light weight and should go close here. (1) YUKWAEHAN SEONTAEK, another racing for the first time since December, and (12) SONGAM BEST are other potential placers.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(10) RAON THE PEARL is yet to finish any worse than 4th in four attempts with her win coming at 1200M at class 6 level two starts back. On her first try at this class and distance, she ran 4th on April 16th, settling in midfield and finishing off pleasingly enough. She may need a touch of luck from the gate given the wide draw, but if she can find a decent position, she has the strongest finish of any of these and is the one to beat. (3) CUPID WAY enters off a fair showing at this class and distance on May 8th when 5th. She likes to settle behind the speed and run on and she should be a danger late on here. (4) ROAD ACE went right back on his most recent appearance on April 24th, before finishing off strongly for 4th and he can match or better that here. (1) HOEDURYEONG mixes his form but has run a great time at this distance and from a good draw looks a place chance. (12) SMART HIGH another in the frame.
Selections
(10) Raon The Pearl (3) Cupid Way (4) Road Ace (1) Hoeduryeong
Next Best
12, 2
Fast Start
2, 9, 10, 12
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(3) PIEONADA has shown signs of getting back into form and was a good 2nd at this class and distance on May 8th when prominent throughout. Under today’s handicap conditions she comes down 2kg in the weights, draws well and is she can get on the early speed, could well go all the way. The main danger is (5) DREAM SPEED. A model of consistency having missed the top-five on only one of nine starts so far, she comes in off back-to-back runner-up finishes at this class, both over 1300M. This is her first try over 1400M and an apprentice jockey keeps her weight down. She has a big chance. (4) ORAE HAMKKEHAJA was a gate-to-wire winner on debut on May 7th. He comes up in class and in distance here but is down in weight and another bold showing is possible. (11) SMART JEONSA and (10) REAL PACK are others in the placing hunt.
June kicks off with the final leg of the filly Triple Crown, the Gyeonggi Govenor’s Cup at Seoul on Sturday before the capital track hosts the Ttukseom Cup. the first leg of the Queens’ Tour, on Sunday. Before that there is an 8-race program at Busan on Friday which runs from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan,
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open proceedings, with four of the twelve racing for the first time. Among the newcomers is probable hot favourite (5) CAPTAIN GOLD. He produced one of the most impressive trial performances seen recently when leading all the way and crossing the line thirteen-lengths ahead of anything else and only asked for minimal effort. If he brings anything like that form to the races, he’ll win easily. (11) JOSEPHINE QUEEN is the best of the experienced ones. She’s finished in the top five on all four of her starts so far, registering fair times in the process. She can go close here. (9) CHONGAL CHARM has hinted at ability in three outings to date and should be in the placing frame here. (10) GRAPHENE KING and (12) TOMYRIS are other first time starters who looked well in trials.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
There is one debut-maker among this field of maidens and (11) INDIE BULPAE is likely to attract plenty of interest. He’s a half-brother to KRA Cup Classic winner Mr. Afleet and debuts here having improved in the second of two trials. This is not a very strong race and a bold showing first up looks on the cards. (1) DOCTOR KONGDOLI mixes his form but does have a runner-up finish to his name and from a good draw today can be competitive. (10) DAEJI SPECIAL has been reasonably consistent across his seven outings to date and drops back in trip following recent starts at 1400M and a mile. He is a touch one-paced but will can run on into some money here. (9) GALLOP BOY and (6) RUNNING WARRIOR are among others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(11) Indie Bulpae (1) Doctor Kongdoli (10) Daejii Special (9) Gallop Boy
Next Best
6, 3
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 7
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(4) CHOEGANG FORCE looks to be the one to beat here. He races for the first time since February, when he ran a good 3rd at this distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He does tend to get a bit far back in his races but he has a strong finish and he should prove too good for this lot. (1) CHOEGANG DUDEURIM enters off her two best finishes having run 3rd and 2nd. She too can leave herself a bit too much to do, but from a good draw and with an apprentice keeping the weight right down again, she can go close. (2) DOCTOR CANDY beat a couple of these on her way to 5th place over a mile last time out. She has run fairly at this distance too and can be in the placing frame at least here. (7) URI JOEUNNAL and (3) MY PAL are others to consider.
Selections
(4) Choegang Force (1) Choegang Dudeurim (2) Doctor Candy (7) Uri Joeunnal
Next Best
3, 5
Fast Start
2, 3, 5, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A small field of fillies here but it is competitive. We’ll give a chance to (7) DOKBO, who comes up in class having registered her maiden win on her third start in May 6th when leading all the way. She looks to have scope for more development and can be on pace here and win again. The probable favourite is (2) CHEONGHO BOSS. She’s yet to finish outside the top five and was a smart winner over this distance at class 6 level. At her latest start on May 6th, she beat a couple of today’s rivals on her way to 2nd place and from a great draw, will be in this a long way. (5) HAMAN YEOHANGSAN got her maiden win two starts back and then ran 3rd on her first try at this class over 1300M on April 24th. She has a strong finish on her and can be competitive here. (8) BLUE CARSON and (4) BURNING PASSION are others in the hunt.
Selections
(7) Dokbo (2) Cheongho Boss (5) Haman Yeohangsan (8) Blue Carson
Next Best
4, 1
Fast Start
4, 6, 7, 8
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(4) GOLD TAP was a winner on debut back in February and since then has run 5th an d 2nd in two assignments at this class. The most recent of those was on his first try at a mile on May 8th when prominent throughout and leading for part of the home straight, and he will be expected to return to the winner’s circle here. (2) WONDERUL FILE was a good winner over 1300M two starts back to get promoted to this class and ran 3rd on her first crack at it over the same distance on April 29th. She comes up in trip here but it can suit and she should be going close. (8) CHOEGANG MARINE and (7) GRAND CHUKJE can both have a line drawn through their respective latest starts. The former is a winner at this distance while the latter has placed at class and distance. (9) HOLLYWOOD QUEEN another who can be competitive.
Selections
(4) Gold Tap (2) Wonderful File (8) Choegang Marine (7) Grand Chukje
Next Best
9, 1
Fast Start
1, 2, 4, 8
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
A small field but a very competitive affair. (5) GALLANT WARRIOR was a class and distance winner on May 6th when on pace throughout. Both his wins have come at this distance and while he does come up 2kg from that run, he has every chance of winning again. (1) ROSE BULLET came home in 3rd place in that race having been on pace throughout. He draws nicely here and can be a danger again. (8) CHEONGHO LEADER enters off a solid runner-up finish at class and distance on May 15th. He came from well off the pace that day and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (3) GREAT DANCE is another who comes out of that May 6th race when he was 5th. While he only has the one win to his name, he has ten top-three finishes and should be close again. (7) YEONGWON POWER another to consider.
Selections
(5) Gallant Warrior (1) Rose Bullet (8) Cheongho Leader (3) Great Dance
Next Best
7, 6
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 6
Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(12) BEAUTIFUL KING won back-to-back races over this distance in March and April the second of which was at this class. He weakened in the straight at 1400M on his latest outing on May 8th but this looks a more suitable assignment and he can return to winning ways. It’s a tricky race though. (6) A ONE PLUS is yet to win in twenty-one attempts but has no fewer than thirteen top-five finishes. He has some fair performances at this distance to his name and under a light weight again, can go close. (11) ROCKET SORI didn’t do too much wrong on debut at this distance on April 29th. He should have benefitted for the experience and with natural improvement can get closer today. (2) MUJEOK CHARLIE and (8) ONE PICK are among others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(12) Beautiful King (6) A One Plus (11) Rocket Sori (2) Mujeok Charlie
Next Best
8, 1
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 11
Busan Race 8: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million
A very competitive race to finish with. (10) SONIC KING IJI might be ready to return to the winner’s circle. He’s been getting closer across his latest few appearances and ran 2nd at class and distance on April 22nd, beating plenty of today’s rivals in the process. The draw is not ideal but he doesn’t need to lead and while he comes up 2kg in the weights, he has a chance. (11) ILNYEOM TONGCHEON won back-to-back races at this distance in March and April. She comes in off a 4th place when dropped back to 1200M on May 6th but back up in trip today, she can be a big threat. (1) COPY THAT beat Ilnyeom Tongcheon in that May 6th race having previously run 2nd to her at this distance. He gets a great draw here and can be a danger. (6) GEUMA PSYCHIC and (3) BABEL HIT are others to consider.
Selections
(10) Sonic King Iji (11) Ilnyeom Tongcheon (1) Copy That (6) Geuma Psychic
The second leg of the Stayer Series, the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3) highlights the 11-race Sunday card at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there is a class 1 sprint headlining the 6-race program from 12:00 to 16:45. Click here for a runner-by-runner guide to the YTN Cup. Here is the race-by-race:
Moonhak Chief won the YTN Cup during his breakout 2019 season (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open the program with four of the twelve racing for the very first time. (7) DAPHNE has hinted at some ability when 3rd over 1000M at start number three last December. She hasn’t raced since but looked well when 2nd in a trial on May 6th and from a likely on pace position, she has as good a chance as any here. (3) OKCHEON CHOEGANG has finished in 4th place in both outings so far, both of them over this distance and most recently when beating a couple of today’s rivals on April 30th. He’ll be challenging Daphne for the early lead and has every chance of going all the way. (6) CHOEGO BLACK was 5th behind Okcheon Choegang on what was his debut on April 30th. He should have come on for that run and can get closer today. Of the first-time starters, (4) EURO TEUKGEUP improved in his second trial and from a great draw can go well first up. (9) KINGS EYE another in the frame after an adequate debut.
Selections
(7) Daphne (3) Okcheon Choegang (6) Choego Black (4) Euro Teukgeup
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 7
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Filly maidens only here. (5) TIFFANY BLUE looks to be the one to beat following an on-pace narrow runner-up finish over 1300Mon April 10th. She has run well at this distance too and with an apprentice jockey taking 3kg off her back, she looks extremely well in here. (6) SWEET KAKAO similarly gets the benefit of an apprentice claim, in her case a full 4kg. That brings her down from her back-to-back 4th places in her latest two where she has settled behind the early speed and run on. There isn’t much early speed here so she should be on the pace and can go all the way. (10) NAMSAN KKOT was 5th behind Sweet Kakao on her latest appearance on May 1st having run 4th the time before that and should be in at least the placing frame here. (2) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER and (11) NAEGILUI BYEOL are others who can enter the calculations.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
It has been a full forty-nine weeks since we last saw (7) VICTORY SAM in a race. He did quite well that day to, running 2nd over 1000M on her third career outing. She has had setbacks since but seemed very much over them with a bold showing in a trial on April 22nd when she led from gate to wire. She couldn’t really pick a nicer race to return in and despite her absence, she will be a strong favourite here. (4) SHINE MUSIC is yet finish in the top-two places in fifteen starts but she has shown some consistency in her latest few outings and comes in off a useful enough 5th at her latest start on May 8th. She can settle behind the early leaders here and run into some money. (3) FAMILY CAPTAIN has a 2nd place to his name at this distance three starts back and after two indifferent spins when carrying 56kg, gets a 4kg allowance with an apprentice climbing aboard. That should bring him into the placing frame here. (12) GLOBAL CASTLE and (2) BEST BIG BANG are others in the hunt.
Selections
(7) Victory Sam (4) Shine Music (3) Family Captain (12) Global Castle
Next Best
2, 5
Fast Start
3, 5, 7, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old filly maidens in the South Coast opener. (1) QUEEN ALLIE gets the nod following an encouraging debut over 1200M on May 6th when she settled back before running on well for 2nd place. She should have come on for that run, she has a great draw, and the additional half furlong should pose no problems. (8) HANEUL JILJU has improved across her three starts to date, culminating in 3rd place last time out when leading until the closing stages. She will be on pace again and should be in this a long way. (5) ALL CROWN already has positive experience at this distance, running a good 2nd at it on her latest appearance on March 20th. She settled back and ran on and similar can be expected here. (9) STAR CATCH ad (2) CROWD ONE are others with at least placing claims.
Selections
(1) Queen Allie (8) Haneul Jilju (5) All Crown (9) Star Catch
Next Best
2, 6
Fast Start
2, 6, 8, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies only here and while plenty enter in good form, (7) RAON THE WEEKEND is the one to beat. Her solitary win to date came at this distance in a good time at class 6 level three starts back and since then she has run well in two attempts at this level. First, she overcame gate thirteen to get to the speed but ultimately end up 6th over 1200M and then most recently, on April 9th, went right back after a slow start but finished off well for 4th. With a better start today, she will prove hard to go past. (4) INVICTUS is the logical second pick. Her win over 1200M at class 6 at the beginning of April had been coming and she showed she can measure up at this level when 4th over 1400M on May 1st. She can sit on the speed or settle back and run on and should be a factor here. (2) GREEN JJANG took a couple of tries to get to grips with this level but has been coming back into form in her latest two, especially her last start 2nd at 1200M. From a good draw, she can be on the speed here and go close. (11) CUPID JUMBO and the up in class (6) V QUEEN among others in the hunt.
Selections
(7) Raon The Weekend (4) Invictus (2) Green Jjang (11) Cupid Jumbo
Next Best
6, 5
Fast Start
2, 3, 7, 9
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(7) GEUMA INFINITE ran a solid 3rd place on debut over 1300M on May 8th when settling midfield and finishing off well. The additional half-furlong should suit and with some natural improvement from that run, he should be winning this. He will be a hot favourite in a field where the form of the rest is less than convincing. (2) BOUNTY HUNTER doesn’t look in any danger of winning a race, but he has picked up minor money on five of eleven occasions so far. An apprentice brings him down 3kg in the weights here and from a good draw, he can be aiming for a career best finish. (10) MILK DAY too has been loitering around the minors, most recently beating a couple of these on his way to 4th place over 1300M on May 13th. The wide gate shouldn’t matter, and he looks a solid placing chance. (5) THE PRINCESS and (8) YEONGGWANGUI RIDER others who can find some minor money although the latter does tend to save his best for barrier trials.
Selections
(7) Geuma Infinite (2) Bounty Hunter (10) Milk Day (5) The Princess
Next Best
8, 4
Fast Start
4, 6, 8, 10
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
After seven top-five finishes, it’s about time (7) REMARKABLE finally came home in top. He enters after back-to-back 3rd places at class and distance, both in good times and once more carries a light weight. He draws fairly, and today can be his day. (6) NONSTOP CAT enters off two consecutive runner-up finishes at class and distance, both times having been drawn wide. From a better gate today, he can pose a threat again. (1) K N SKETCH is up in class following a maiden win over 1300M on May 1st when he sat behind the leader before taking things up just before the furlong pole and never looking back. He draws well for Antonio to sit handy here and he should measure up at this level. (12) COMPLETE WEAPON was a winner at start number two at 1200M on April 2nd. It wasn’t a fast time, but he looks to have potential the wide draw isn’t too much of a concern. (5) CONCORDE SPURT among others with placing chances.
Selections
(7) Remarkable (6) Nonstop Cat (1) K N Sketch (12) Complete Weapon
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open proceedings. (4) TWO TWO COIN is the one to beat and will be a warm favourite. She’s shown improvement across five starts so far and enters off a strong 3rd place over this distance on May 13th when prominent throughout. She likes to be on pace, so draws well here and she won’t need to improve much, if at all, on that last run to win here. (11) SHAKA races once last September, putting in a fair run in a fast race over 1000M. He’s not been seen since but he remains in Kim Young-kwan’s stable and he looked very well when leading for much of a trial on May 14th, ultimately crossing the line 3rd in a good time. The draw is not ideal but a bold first-up showing is possible. (10) SUPER CRACK improved significantly at start number four over this distance on April 29th when settling midfield and running on and is another who can be dangerous. (7) PRETTY CHARM and (1) SPECIAL WIND among others with placing chances.
Selections
(4) Two Two Coin (11) Shaka (10) Super Crack (7) Pretty Charm
Next Best
1, 12
Fast Start
1, 4, 8, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
It’s hard to look too far past (4) CUTE GUY here. Having trialed up well, he was sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on March 4th and while he led for much of the way around, he ultimately ran a close 2nd to Green Cheetah. He’s had almost three months off since and while he carries more weight and comes up in trip, he will be the one they need to beat. (5) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE’s best finish to date came at this distance three starts back when on pace and finishing 2nd. The time was the fastest that any of these have posted at this distance and he can go close again here. (2) BAEDARI GANGHO can have a line drawn through his latest outing on May 13th when he was drawn wide and got a long way back. From a much more favourable gate today, he should be a different prospect. (6) NAREUCAT and (9) VIEW AMAZING others who can aim for the minor money.
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Small but competitive field here. (9) MAN OF THE STAR may still be a maiden and may be up in class here but there is no reason why he can’t measure up. He has posted competitive times across his four starts to date, and at his latest on February 27th, he worked hard to get to the lead from a similarly wide gate, ultimately finishing 2nd. He comes in fresh here, is sown in the weights and today could be his day. He will vie for favourite status with (5) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG. He was slowly away at his latest start but gets a much better gate today and can be a different prospect, having already registered some good times at this distance. Expect him to be on pace this time. (2) KING BID finished ahead of Eunseong Yeongung last time out and has the best time of any of these at the distance. He likes to settle back and run on and so long as he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he can be a danger late on here. (8) STATICE and (4) BABEL PHOENIX among others with chances.
Selections
(9) Man Of The Star (5) Eunseong Yeongung (2) King Bid (8) Statice
Next Best
4, 6
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A small field of fillies and mares here but a competitive one nonetheless. (4) TTEUGEOUN MANNAM looks set to go well. Her solitary victory was all the way back in December 2020, before she missed the majority of her three-year-old campaign, returning to action in October following eight months out. Since then she has been working her way back into form and was a good 3rd at class and distance last time out on April 10th. In this company she could well be on the early speed and she can win here. (6) HAMAN BONGHWASAN has only raced four times, winning at start number two over 1300M. She comes in having run 3rd over 1400M on her latest start at the beginning of April and drops back to this distance for the very first time. She can settle handy here and run on. (3) HAVANA JANE took seventeen goes to get her maiden win and come up in class but she has seemed comfortable enough in three subsequent outings at this level and should be there or thereabouts again, (5) JEONGDEUN-RO and (8) BAEK GU others to enter the calculations.
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
The second division of the filly/mare handicap and it’s as equally open as the first. We’ll tentatively side with (6) ARTIE’S GAL to finally make the breakthrough at start number ten. She comes in off a front-running 2nd place at 1300M on April 29th and while she is ostensibly up in class here, this isn’t an intimidating set of opponents. She comes down in the weights, draws well, and she has as good a chance as any here. (4) RUN AND GUN is yet to finish in the top two but has no fewer than nine top-five finishes in fourteen attempts. She comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes and can settle back and run on to go close again here. (5) MYEONGSEONG MAGIC had gone a little cold prior to spending almost six months on the sidelines from last November. She returns to action here having won a trial at the end of April and could be heading back into form. (8) GUARDIAN ANGEL and (3) COLORFUL WIND others in the placing frame.
Selections
(6) Artie’s Gal (4) Run And Gun (5) Myeongseong Magic (8) Guardian Angel
Next Best
3, 1
Fast Start
2, 3, 5, 6
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(4) HAMYANGEUN SANSAM won his first two in fine style at 1300M before being tried arounf 1800M on May 6th, his first try at this class. That proved to be too much too soon and having led early, he knocked up very quickly in the home straight. This is a much more suitable assignment with a much better draw and so long as that chastening experience three weeks ago didn’t take too much out of him, he can return to winning ways today. (6) MIRACLE SON returned from eight months out to run a strong 2nd place over class and distance on a muddy track on April 29th. He had put together an impressive set of results before the layoff and should be better for April’s run. He can sit handy here and be strong late on. (3) SANGSEUNG BOY has raced just four times with two wins and two 3rd place finishes to his name. The latter 3rd was his first try at this class and from a good draw, he can be expected to be on pace from the start and to be in this a long way. (5) CHOEGANG CUPID comes up in class but down in weight after a good win at this distance and can measure up at this level. The wildcard is (2) BEASTLY. Who returns to action for the first time since June last year. He looked well when winning a trial earlier this month.
Selections
(4) Hamyangeun Sansam (6) Miracle Son (3) Sangseung Boy (5) Choegang Cupid
Next Best
2, 7
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 5
Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
Good race this. We’ll stick with (2) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI, who scored on his first try at this class on May 13th, tracking the leader and then running on for a narrow victory. He comes up 4kg in the weights, but that is balanced a little by a better draw and another win isn’t impossible. The big danger is (1) WINNNG DANCER. A class and distance winner in a fast time three starts back in January, he has since run 3rd and 4th, beating plenty of today’s rivals and will probably start as the favourite here. (4) ACE DAY is also a recent class and distance winner, having made all in February to win in a fast time. His only subsequent run was three weeks ago when he worked hard to get to a forward position from an unhelpful draw, only to weaken in the closing stages over 1400M. Today’s assignment looks a better one for him and he should go close. (5) BURNING FLY and (6) REVERSE SWEEP are both experienced at this class and capable of finding the money.
Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million
It took (2) CALM STRONG several attempts to figure things out but she seems to have got there, winning her latest two in fine style and fast times over the 1400M. She comes up in class and also up in distance to two turns for the first time here, but in this company she looks to have solid claims to win again. (6) YEOKJEON MYEONGSU came back into form with a strong class and distance 2nd at his latest start behind his very good looking stablemate Tuhonui Banseok on April 29th. He has run some good times at the distance and if Calm Strong gets found out, he could well be the one to take advantage. (9) SUNLIGHT BOY managed a good class and distance 2nd two starts back, beating several of today’s rivals and can go close. (7) QUATTRO MAX and (5) MALIBU BYEOL are others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Calm Strong (6) Yeokjeon Myeongsu (9) Sunlight Boy (7) Quattro Max
Can Hit Yegam upset Raon The Fighter in the SROA Chairman’s Trophy? (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Big field of three-year-old maidens in the opener. The one to beat is (4) BLUE INDY. Having trialed up well, he ran 3rd on debut over this distance on April 23rd, when settling midfield and finishing off well. With some natural improvement here, he may be hard to beat. (10) BURUI JILJU showed significant improvement at start number three on March 27th when settling right back and running on strongly for 3rd in a fair time on a wet track. The manner of that run suggests the wide draw won’t be a problem and he should be running on strong again. (2) EUNHYE GUY was ordered back to trial after his debut last place on March 19th. He looked a completely different prospect when passing that trial on April 29th and from a much better draw, compared to the widest on debut, he may go much better. (9) PERMISSION TO WIN and (1) NB JEONSA are others to consider.
Selections
(4) Blue Indy (10) Burui Jilju (2) Eunhye Guy (9) Permission To Win
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 2, 6, 12
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
The first division of a split maiden. (9) TROT QUEEN has steadily improved across six starts to date with her best two finishes coming in her latest two with a 3rd place at 1300M and then 2nd at 1200M, the latter having led almost the entire way around on April 17th. She was favourite that and will probably be so again and this time she can go one better. (4) EAST MAGIC comes in following his joint-best finish so far when 4th at this distance on April 2nd. From a good draw he can join Trot Queen on the early speed and should be in this a long way. (6) SINJURYU has gone well in his latest two and the engagement of an apprentice today brings his carried weight right down. He can settle handy or midfield and has the fastest final furlong average time in the field so should be running on strong. (8) GEOLJAK MAN and (5) POSA POSA are others in the hunt.
Selections
(9) Trot Queen (4) East Magic (6) Sinjuryu (8) Geoljak Man
Next Best
5, 7
Fast Start
3, 4, 6, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
The second division of the split maiden. It’s not a strong race so we’re prepared to take a chance on one of the two first-time starters, (2) RED WARRIOR. He was on pace throughout his heat, eventually crossing the line in 2nd place and while it wasn’t a fast time, he is not exactly facing a lot of speedy types here. He gets a great draw, and the stable is in form. (1) DOWN THE ZONE took a few goes to figure things out but her latest two have been fine efforts, finishing in 3rd place on both occasions, both at this distance and both stalking the leader. She draws well again, carries the same weight, and could well start as the betting favourite. (4) OKDONG GONGJU has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before. She comes in with her recent form reading consistently and looks set to be in the finish here. (3) QUEEN OF RACING and (6) GLOBAL STORM others who can compete for the minor money.
Selections
(2) Red Warrior (1) Down The Zone (4) Okdong Gongju (3) Queen Of Racing
Next Best
6, 10
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 9
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies in the South Coast opener and it’s a small but tricky field. (4) HAENGBOKAN HAMAN ran 4th on debut over 1200M on April 29th having been handy to the speed throughout. She should have come on for that run, she draws nicely again and is a leading contender here. (3) GOLD SWEET has a 2nd and a 4th to her name from three appearances so far with the 2nd, both of those coming at 1200M. She ran on pace in both of those and is nicely drawn to compete for the early lead again and to be in this a long way. (5) TWO TWO BRAIN and (2) GAMDONG ENERGY came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at 1200M on April 22nd. Two Two Brain came from off the pace while Gamdong Energy was up with the leaders throughout although the former ultimately came off best by three-lengths. Both can be in the hunt here. Among the rest, (6) EURO STAR perhaps has the potential for improvement.
Selections
(4) Haengbokan Haman (3) Gold Sweet (5) Two Two Brain (2) Gamdong Energy
Next Best
6, 1
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 6
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only here and (9) CHEONMA BISANG is set to be hot favourite. Her solitary win came two starts back at this class in a similar all-filly affair at this class and distance before running 4th, again at class and distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She is yet to finish outside the top five and her style means the relatively wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. She can settle back and be too strong in the run here. (2) SILVER STAR hinted at a return to form at her latest start in a similar race to this on April 2nd when settling midfield and running on for 4th. She draws well here and should be available at an each-way prince. (11) HAPPY MIX finished well back behind Cheonma Bisang two starts back but that has been her only poor showing to date. She led in her latest at class and distance on April 24th, ultimately finishing 3rd, and while drawn wide and up slightly in weights, can be in the mix today. (8) ONE MORE RUSH and (4) WONDERFUL SAM are others to consider.
Selections
(9) Cheonma Bisang (2) Silver Star (11) Happy Mix (8) One More Rush
Next Best
4, 7
Fast Start
1, 7, 8, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
This is a weak maiden. (9) SINUI JEONSA raced twice without distinction around the turn of 2020 and 2021 and then did not reappear until this spring. When he did, he looked a much better prospect, showing well in a trial before running 3rd on his racecourse return over this distance on April 24th, sitting on pace throughout. With the same apprentice keeping his weight light, he is the one to beat today. (2) WORLD FOUR A will get plenty of backers. Not only is he from the Kim Young-kwan stable, but he is also a half-brother to World Day (nine wins from nineteen) and he ran a fast time in what was admittedly a fast run trial. He draws well and couldn’t ask for a better race to debut in. (8) BLUE CAPTAIN comes in having run 3rd at this class over 1300M on April 15th having led early. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and can aim for at least the places again here. (4) VICTORY NINE and (3) DOCTOR PENTAGON are others in the minor money frame.
Selections
(9) Sinui Jeonsa (2) World Four A (8) Blue Captain (4) Victory Nine
The cream of Korea’s speedsters will meet the starter in the second leg of the 2022 Korea Sprint Series in the SROA (Seoul Racecourse Owners’ Association) Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.
Raon The Fighter will bid to get back to winning ways on Sunday (Pic: KRA)
Raon The Fighter will be looking to return to winning ways after suffering his first career defeat in the first leg of the series, the Busan Ilbo Sprint on April 24th. He will be hot favourite to do so with his conqueror that day, Eoma Eoma, ruled out through a sprained fetlock.
Bursting onto the elite scene with victory over Eoma Eoma in this race last year (when it was held in November due to the pandemic-affected season), Raon The Fighter was sent off a prohibitive favourite in the Busan Ilbo, only to stumble coming out of the gate and then take a heavy bump. Eoma Eoma was able to gain his revenge with Raon The Fighter a gallant 2nd in the circumstances, however, a third match-up will have to wait with Eoma Eoma not having been in work since.
That still leaves a formidable set of rivals. Morfhis won this race two years ago while East Jet is also a Group winner at the 1200M distance. Simjangui Godong won last year’s President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) and comes back to the sprinting ranks after two class 1 wins at 2000M this year. Then there is Hit Yegam, a winner of two legs of last year’s Triple Crown, yet also a formidable sprinter in the past.
Other up and comers include Yeongung Louis, Jangsan Clear and Black Musk and despite Eoma Eoma’s absence, Raon The Fighter is going to need to be on his game to return to the top.
The SROA Chairman’s Sprint is race 8 on an 11-race card at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday. Here is a full run-down of every horse:
SROA Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G3)
1. SINGSING MARY (USA) [With Distinction – Amylimehouse (Limehouse)] 6-M
Owner: Jeon Seok-ho Trainer: Bae Hou-jun Jockey: Park Eul-woon
The only filly or mare in the race, she was the longest shot on the board in the Busan Ilbo Cup and probably will be again here. Good draw but she probably doesn’t have the early speed to get on the pace nor the late speed to mount a strong challenge at the business end of the race. Lowest rated by some nineteen points.
The 2021 President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) winner drops back to this distance for the first time since November 2020. It is a distance he has won at, claiming the Segye Ilbo Cup in January of 2020, just before racing closed down for the pandemic, but is nevertheless a surprising entrant. In his last two starts at 2000M, both of which have been class 1 wins, he has sat on the pace, and he is drawn very nicely to do similar here. Can go close and is a candidate for second-favourite status.
O: Kim Joon-hyun T: Bang Dong-suk J: You Hyun-myung
13/9/3/0 – KRW 872,700,000
Wins in the KRA Cup Mile and Minister’s Cup along with a narrow 2nd place in the Derby made Hit Yegam (no longer “Heat”) last year’s Champion Three-year-old having been Champion Juvenile the year before, when he won the Breeders’ Cup at this distance. He suffered a surprise defeat to Daemangui Gil on his only start so far this season which was at this distance at class 1 level in Busan on February 27th, but it was probably only intended as a pipe-opener for a horse who has been very sensibly campaigned. He led that day, as he has done in all his starts so far. He has never finished worse than 2nd and while this is his toughest ask, he gets a very good draw to be on pace again and he should be in this a long way.
4: YEONGUNG LOUIS (USA) [Violence – Don’t Stop To Shop (Unbridled’s Song)] 4-C
O: Ko Hee-chong T: Kwon Sung-ju J: Franco Da Silva
12/6/3/1 – KRW 273,740,000
Burst onto the scene on his only previous visit to Seoul when 3rd behind Eoma Eoma and East Jet on the SBS Sports Sprint in October. It’s fair to say he has mixed his form since then with an excellent win over 1400M at class 1 level in Busan followed by a slightly disappointing 7th of ten in the Busan Ilbo when he bumped with Raon The Fighter at the start and wasn’t much of a factor. Being back at Seoul may galvanize him and the draw is kind. Place line.
Horse Racing in Korea 