Racing Previews

TRIPLE CROWN 1st LEG: KRA CUP MILE – RUNNER-BY-RUNNER PREVIEW

It’s just four months since the delayed 2021 series was completed, but the Triple Crown season is back in Korea this weekend with the KRA Cup Mile – the Korean 2000 Guineas – being run at Busan on Sunday.

Complete Value was Champion Juvenile of 2021 and will be favourite for the KRA Cup Mile (Pic: KRA)

And it’s a thrilling race in prospect with arguably ten of the thirteen runners having legitimate winning claims, and the other three hardly being no-hopers themselves.

Six of the entrants have traveled down from Seoul, including probable favourite Complete Value, last year’s Champion Juvenile. However, it was a Busan filly who won the Luna Stakes (Korean 1000 Guineas) last weekend, and the home side fields a strong line up too.

All races in the Korean Triple Crown Series, which comprises the Cup Mile, the Derby and the Minister’s Cup are restricted to Korean-bred horses. There were two main trial races for the series, the Sports Seoul Trophy, at Seoul, and the Gyeongnam Shinmun Cup at Busan, both run over 1400M.

Sports Seoul Trophy video:

Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy video:

Here’s a full run down of the field:

1. BEOLMAUI STAR [To Honor And Serve – Gaya Gongju (War Zone)] – The wildcard of the field. He won his first two starts with dismissive ease before running 3rd on his third appearance at 1400M, leading most of the way but weakening. That was in January, and he hasn’t raced since although he did win a fast trial in February. He has a great draw to challenge for the lead and a jockey who knows how to win these races, but the mile is a big question.

2. MAN OF THE YEAR [Federalist – Over Speed (Menifee)] – 5th in the Breeders’ Cup but an impressive winner of the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy when he settled on the pace but was wide most of the trip before running away for a big win. He also has a 3rd place at 1800M at class 4 level so the trip should not be an issue. He draws well to be on pace or handy and will be one of the favourites.

3. DOUBLE EDGE [Cowboy Cal – Blade’s Edge (Corinthian)] – A winner of just one of six starts but was runner-up to both Aspen Taeyang in the Nonghyup Trophy and Complete Value in the Breeders’ Cup. Also has a 3rd place over 1700M at class 4 level and ran 5th in the Sports Seoul Trophy. He goes back and runs on and has the fastest final furlong average time in the field. He has to overturn form on a lot of these though and a place line is realistic.

4. ASPEN TAEYANG [With Distinction – Aspen Light (Bernardini)] – A high class galloper with three wins from six including the Nonghyup Trophy. Blew the start of the Breeders’ Cup before running on for 4th and was then 3rd in the Sports Seoul Cup when handy all the way and running on late. First time further than 1400M but that should not be a problem. Moon Se-young aboard will tempt plenty and he will probably start second or third favourite. On pace and in this a long way.

5. COMPLETE VALUE [Girolamo – Ft. Sduction (Ft. Stockton)] – The winner of the Breeders’ Cup to be crowned champion juvenile of last year and unbeaten until his latest start when 2nd in the Sports Seoul Trophy to Seungbusa. He was first-up that day off an eight-week break and raced keenly and a little wide, making up plenty of ground late. Expect progress from that, the mile should suit, and he is hard to hold out here if at his best.

6. CAPTAIN YANKEE [Old Fashioned – Can’t Rezist (Action This Day)] – Won two of his first three but came to light with a solid 2nd in the Gyeongnam Shinmun when after taking a bump at the start, he settled on the pace and was strong in the straight. That was his first run at further than 1300M and he should have derived much benefit. Expect similar tactics here and he could provide some each-way interest at probable big odds.

7. BYEOLUI SUNGAN [Menifee – Free Release (Dixie Union)] – A winner up to 1400M at class 5 level, he ran a solid 4th in the Sports Seoul when from a wide draw, he settled back and then ran on well.  That is perhaps the strategy that will be employed here as well as he does have some speed on his inside, and he can run on well. Not among the top line of favourites but could run into the minor money.

8. WINNER STAR [Concord Point – Jangguneui Huye (Gaeseon Janggun)] – He ran 3rd behind Complete Value and Double Edge in the Breeders’ Cup when coming from well off the pace before stepping up to take two spins around 1800M at class 4 level, finishing 2nd in the first of them and winning the latest when settling handy and running on. He may be more a Derby horse, but he has run a good time when 3rd at this distance too and is a serious contender.

9. BEOMI NARYEO ONDA [Take Charge Indy – To Live Fore (Pass Rush)] – Of the four horses here who have tackled a mile before, he has the fastest time among them, recorded when 2nd to Old Cheonha at class 5 level in January. He does have plenty of form to overturn here though having only beaten one home in the Breeders’ Cup and then 3rd in the Gyeongnam Shinmun when he sat midfield and ran on. Jockey has won this race three times, but a place line seems most realistic.

10. SEUNGBUSA [Mischieviously – T P Mc G (Flatter)] – The form horse of the race, he didn’t run in the Breeders’ Cup but has won his latest three in fine style, including the Sports Seoul when he made all and never looked like being caught. He is a front-runner and while he draws wide, he should have enough speed to get to the front. The mile is going to be the big question though. Will be among the favourites.

11. P N S HAENGBOK [Colors Flying – Haengbok Cheonsa (Menifee)] – Just the one win from five starts so far and that was over 1200M at class 6 level when he sat handy and ran on. He has enterprising owners, and with a spot available, takes his chance. This is going to be a big ask though and he is likely to be the longest shot on the board. He’ll settle midfield or back and see what happens.

12. MONGTTANG [To Honor And Serve – Miss Stravinsky (Stravinsky)] – The sole representative of trainer Kim Young-kwan, who has won the race four times, he blundered in the Breeders’ Cup and finished well back, but was a solid 4th in the Gyeongnam Shinmun. He does have a 3rd place at class 4 level over a mile and a good run is possible, but the jockey/trainer connection may make his local odds shorter than they should be and it is a hard ask from gate twelve.

13. UNJU HERO [Cowboy Cal – Black Ruby (War Zone)] – The only horse in the race to have won at this distance, he did that at his latest start at class 5 level on March 27th when he settled midfield and steadily improved, taking a narrow victory. He is in much better company today though and accordingly will find it much harder. From the wide draw, his best hope is perhaps to drop back and look to run on, but he will need improvement.

Selections: (5) Complete Value (8) Winner Star (2) Man Of The Year (6) Captain Yankee

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 16)

The Cherry Blossom season comes to its conclusion at Seoul Racecourse this weekend. There are 9 races on Saturday form 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open and it is now possible to buy non-reserved tickets on the gate. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. There will be a hot favourite and it is indeed hard to look past (10) TIZ SUCCESS. Having won a trial in a good time, she ran 2nd on debut, well beaten by Meni Spear, on a sloppy track on March 13th. It was a good start and with some natural improvement for that run, she should be very hard to beat here. (9) CHAPEL PRINCESS was a bit slower on her debut on March 19th but ran pleasingly enough for 4th having settled handy. She too should be better for the experience and can get closer. There are three debut-makers. Of them, (3) MADISON MUSIC and (5) WONDERFUL MUSIC have the same owner but different trainers, and they recorded identical times when both finishing in 2nd place in their respective trials a week apart. Both have every chance of going well in this modest company. Of the others with experience, (2) RAY BOLT is perhaps the most likely to improve.

Selections(10) Tiz Success (9) Chapel Princess (3) Masidon Music (5) Wonderful Music
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

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

Tricky maiden here. (1) NAMSAN HORANGI races for the first time since January having finished in 5th place in all three of his starts so far. He has finished off his races adequately. Comes up slightly in distance and gets a very good draw. Today can be his day. (4) GEONGONILCHEOK enters off a good 3rd at 1200M on March 20th when he was ridden midfield early and finished off well. He looks nicely in here and with Antonio climbing aboard can be in the finish again. (3) RESERVED JOHN has put in two fair performances for 3rd and 4th, the latter of which was at this trip on March 12th. At his first start he went right to the back before finishing off very well but was ridden handy on reappearance and from the same gate, that will probably be the tactic again today. (9) THE FAVORITE has four top-four finishes from five starts so far. She steps up to this trip for the first time and it can suit. (8) G STAR has tended to get a bit far back in his races but has a decent turn of foot and may run into some money.

Selections(1) Namsan Horangi (4) Geongonilcheok (3) Reserved John (9) The Favorite
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A wide-open maiden here. (7) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE’s only bad run to date did come on her only previous try at the distance but other than that she has been consistent. In this race, where there isn’t much early speed, she should be able to get a prominent position and she has shown she can finish races off well. She has as good a chance as any here. (2) EPIPHANY has steadily improved across his latest few starts, culminating in a career-best 2nd place at his latest outing on March 19th. That was at 1700M so he comes back sharply in trip today, but he draws nicely and can go close. (9) NANA LAND showed signs of figuring things out at what was start number four on April 3rd at 1200M when settled midfield and then ran on for a close 2nd. That was the first time she didn’t get too far back in a race and while today’s draw is not as good, if she can get away well, she isn’t without a chance. (6) POSA POSA and (1) CINDERELLA are others with money claims.

Selections(7) Neoreul Eungwonhae (2) Epiphany (9) Nana Land (6) Posa Posa
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 11

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

(3) SAENAE POWERFUL gained his sole win to date at this distance at class 6 level three starts back and comes in having run 2nd at this class over 1200M on March 12th when settling midfield and running on for a narrow defeat. He comes up 2kg in the weights today but that’s balanced by a much better gate, and he has every chance of going one better today. (10) BARAMGWA HAMKKE remains a maiden following ten attempts but at his latest start overcame gate fourteen to run a very good 3rd over 1400M. He is down in the weights on that run and can settle back and challenge late on here. (9) RAON THE PEARL comes up in class and slightly in trip, having recorded her maiden win at start number three on March 5th. She can settle midfield here and should measure up at this level. (11) DREAM SPEED and (6) KING CRUSH are both also up in class following last start maiden wins and neither should be too far away.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 15)

This weekend sees the first leg of the 2022 Korean Triple Crown with the running on the KRA Cup Mile at Busan on Sunday. We’ll have plenty more on the big race over the next couple of days but in the meantime, the weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies open proceedings. (3) GOLD SWEET improved at start number two running 2nd at this distance on March 11th when handy throughout. There looks to be more to come and with some further improvement, she can win this. The favourite will probably be (2) SEOBU TEUKGEUP. She was a good 4th on debut at this distance on March 18th in a fast, although wet track assisted, time. From a great draw expect here to be on pace or handy and she will be in this a long way. There are three first time starters and among them, (9) RED QUEEN looked well when 2nd in a trial in a fast time. It was in the slop so not too much should read into it, but if she can bring that form to the races, she won’t be far away. (5) FANTASTIC YEOGEOL and (8) WONDERFUL CUTIE are others to consider.

Selections(3) Gold Sweet (2) Seobu Teukgeup (9) Red Queen (5) Fantastic Yeogeol
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

More three-year-old maidens. It’s hard to look too far past (1) WONDERFUL FILE. She has shown improvement across her four starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place at her latest at this distance on March 25th when coming from off the pace. From the inside gate, Choi Si-dae can pick his spot and he should be too good. Nothing else here has a top-three finish to their names yet. That’s going to change for a couple and (6) STAR CATCH looks a contender. She improved at start number two when 6th at this distance in a fair time on a sloppy track. She does come up in the weights with no apprentice allowance here but looks to have the potential to get better. (5) MAGIC WHISPER raced once last summer without distinction and was then put away until this year. He won a January trial before running fairly for a midfield finish first-up on February 18th and should come on for that here. (4) WIN STING and (3) SPECIAL FACT other potential improvers.

Selections(1) Wonderful File (6) Star Catch (5) Magic Whisper (4) Win Sting
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

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

A few of these looked like they are finally figuring things out at their respective latest starts, but it is hard to have very strong opinions on any. (9) GLOBAL CHOEGO is probably the favourite. He has steadily improved across his eight starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish in a fair time at 1200M on March 27th. Kim Hye-sun climbs aboard, and he won’t need to get much better to win this. (4) BLUE CAPTAIN has mixed his form across seven outings so far. He draws well today, should be on pace and can go close. (7) WONDERFUL BOBCAT comes in off a 3rd place at his latest start when he was returning from almost a year out. He should have come on for that run and can be a danger here. (5) WONDERFUL REALTY and (10) QUEEN’S DAERO are others to consider.

Selections(9) Global Choego (4) Blue Captain (7) Wonderful Bobcat (5) Wonderful Realty
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 10

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

He might not have finished in the top two in any of sixteen starts so far, but (8) MAJOR FORCE is favoured to get off the mark here. His recent form reads well, and he comes in having run a good 3rd at this distance in a good time on March 25th and a similar run here can see him home on top. (3) JIN MARK is another who has been knocking at the door for some time without having made the breakthrough. He too has been consistent in recent starts, has recorded good times at this distance, and can go close again here. It’s similar with (9) STATICE, who at least does have a 2nd place finish to her name. She comes back up in trip but can settle midfield or further back and then run on strong to find some money here. (4) VIEW AMAZING and (5) HAEUNDAE BLUE others not without chances in this limited company.

Selections(8) Major Force (3) Jin Mark (9) Statice (4) View Amazing
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

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

A competitive race but (10) GOOD STAR looks ready to win again. His sole victory was all the way back on debut, but he has recently put in some solid efforts at this class over 1400M and the mile. He tends to go back in his races and then run on so the wide draw isn’t a concern, and he can win this. (5) GRAND CHUKJE comes up in class after too many near-misses. He has a lot of experience at this distance and will be sure to be running on late. The jockey booking catches the eye, and he is not to be discounted. (7) STORM BROWN is another non-winner, but he is established at this level with a 2nd place at this distance two starts back. He can sit handy early here and be in this a long way. (11) YEONSEUNG BRAVO and (4) SUSO POWER are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(10) Good Star (5) Grand Chukje (7) Storm Brown (11) Yeonseung Bravo
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 12

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(8) DONGBU WORLD comes up in class following a 4th and then back-to-back 2nd places in three starts at class 6 level. The class rise is balanced by a weight drop and he has every chance of measuring up in this kind of company. (12) A ONE PLUS is a prolific runner-up, having finished in that position on no fewer then five occasions. He was a touch disappointing when beaten by a couple of these at his latest start three weeks ago, but he has fair claims to get back in the money. (1) YOUNG BOSS is up in class following his maiden win at start number six on March 18th when he sat handy early before taking command on a sloppy surface over 1300M. Nicely drawn on this inside, he should be in this again. (11) ADELE CHUKBAE and (6) SEOBU QUEEN are among others to take into account.

Selections(8) Dongbu World (12) A One Plus (1) Young Boss (11) Adele Chukbae
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

A winner of three of his last five, (2) SPEED MATCH has been sent off as an odds-on favourite in all of his last four starts and may well be again here. He races for the first time since January, when he was 3rd over 1400M on what was his first try at this class and he drops back to this trip for the first time in a year, so there are a couple of question marks, but he should be too good. (4) WORLD SOCKS is up in class following a pair of runner-up finishes at class 6 level, both times from on the pace. He draws well to get forward here and can be competitive in this company. (9) NEU DAT enters off a good class and distance 2nd on MARCH 6th when he led almost the entire way around.  The draw isn’t great here but in this small field shouldn’t matter too much and he can go close again. (8) MUJEOK BULPAE and (1) JANGSAN BOBBY others in the frame.

Selections(2) Speed Match (4) World Socks (9) Neu Dat (8) Mujeok Bulpae
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 8: Class 1 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million

(5) BARBARIAN will be hot favourite to return to the winner’s circle here. He won back-to-back races at class 1 level, including at this distance, before running 2nd to the excellent Yeongung Louis over 1400M at his latest start on March 27th. He does come up in the weights, but he should have too much ability for this field. (3) GOOD CASTING carries even more but he is ultra-consistent and from a nice gate can find a good position to launch his challenge. He finished runner-up to Barbarian at 1400M two starts back and can challenge him again. (4) HUNCH races for the first time this year, having rounded out his four-year-old campaign with two tricky races in the KRA Cup Classic and Grand Prix. He comes back in trip here and while this may be a pipe-opener, don’t rule him out. (9) KING OF THE MATCH jumps two classes to take his chance here. That gives him a featherweight to carry and serious claims. (2) MACH TITAN among others with placing hopes.

Selections(5) Barbarian (3) Good Casting (4) Hunch (9) King Of The Match
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

Luna Stakes Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (April 10)

The Filly Triple Crown gets underway on Sunday at Busan as fourteen – seven from the south-coast and seven from Seoul – line up over a mile in the Luna Stakes. There are 6 races at Busan from 12:00 to 16:40 and 11 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

A small field of three-year-old maidens with three of the eight racing for the first time. (3) FUN CRAZY is set to be a warm favourite. After an inauspicious debut over 1300M, he significantly improved at start number two at this distance on February 27th, when settling back in the field and running on strongly for 2nd. In this field, he should have too much. It took (6) TWOTWO KITTEN three trials to qualify but when she did, she did it in style, winning a March heat on a wet track in fine fashion, sitting handy and running through the line well. That should see her in good fitness for her racecourse debut and ready for a bold showing. (5) SONGAM DRAGON was also a trial winner last month and she too can make an impression first-up in this company. Returning to those with prior experience, (4) GLOBAL PRIME and (8) NAMSAN MUJEOK can improve.

Selections(3) Fun Crazy (6) Twotwo Kitten (5) Songam Dragon (4) Global Prime
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

Another small field and another warm favourite, this time (3) USEUNG BARAM. He has a 2nd and a 3rd from two starts to date, over 1000M and 1200M. He has settled in midfield and run on both times and from a friendly barrier, should make it third time lucky today. We’ll give another chance to (5) JEONGMUN JILJU. He got a long way back on debut but did run on to finish 9th of fourteen. Prior to that he won a trial in good order and with a better start today can get much closer. (7) SINHAN TEUKSONG ran on fairly for 4th on her debut on February 27th. She was a long way behind a good winner but should have come on for that experience and with some natural improvement can be in this. (6) CAMP SAVER and (1) FLYING GOLD others who could have placing claims.

Selections(3) Useung Baram (5) Jeongmun Jilju (7) Sinhan Teukseong (6) Camp Saver
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(10) P N S CHANCE overcame the widest gate at her latest start on March 20th, to sit just off the speed and then run on for 2nd place behind Concorde Queen. Kim Yong-geun, who rode her that day, remains on board and this filly, who is out of a Korean Oaks winner, can make her breakthrough here. (8) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER has shown improvement since being stepped up to this trip, with a 4th and a 5th from two attempts at it. On her latest start, she led from gate eleven until mid-stretch, ultimately not losing by a huge amount. She should be on or close to the pace again and can go close. (7) ACE PLAN has a runner-up finish to his name over 1200M. He too should be on pace here and is at least in the placing hunt. (4) TIFFANY BLUE and (3) RAON THE WILD, have both hinted at ability and should be competing for at least the minor money.

Selections(10) P N S Chance (8) Hampyeong Fighter (7) Ace Plan (4) Tiffany Blue
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 10

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

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings on the south coast. It’s competitive but we’ll tentatively side with (3) SOUTHERN KING, who ran a good 2nd at this trip when settling forward for the first time on March 13th. He draws even more favourably here and won’t need to improve too much to win. (5) BAEK GU looks the primary danger. She beat three of these on his way to 2nd place over 1200M on March 11th when settling handy to the lead and running on well. That was her best finish in five starts to date but she has only missed out on the top five once, and she has solid claims here. (7) ADELE ALLIE’S ran 4th behind Baek Gu in tat March race. That was just his second start and showed significant improvement from his debut. If he can maintain that trajectory, there could be more development here. The solitary debut-maker (2) YASAENGHWA trialed up pleasingly, settling back and running on and this seems a suitable first race for her to make an impression in. (9) MEOTJIN HARU another who can progress.

Selections(3) Southern King (5) Baek Gu (7) Adele Allie’s (2) Yasaenghwa
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies (and one mare) and a lot of last starts are going to need to be forgiven here, including that of the pick and probable favourite (11) BARO QUEEN. She was sent off as favourite two weeks ago but on a very wet track while she was quickly into the lead, she just as quickly faded. We will instead go on her two starts leading up to that when she ran 3rd on both occasions. She has a good start, last time aside, generally finishes off her races, and she is worth another chance here. (7) KKANGDORI looks logical second pick. While she too only managed 7th at her latest start, she did at least beat a couple of today’s rivals and at the start before she ran well for 2nd at 1300M. She will be on pace here and will be in this a long way. (2) LUXURY GOLD was one of those beaten by Kkandori last time out but from a great draw, can get an easier trip today and be competitive. (8) PRINCESS DAY and (5) GEUMGUKHWA others who can go close.

Selections(11) Baro Queen (7) Kkangdori (2) Luxury Gold (8) Princess Day
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

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

(11) INDIE MAGIC comes in here having run 3rd at his latest start on March 20th, when from the same gate as today, he got to a handy position, and then ran on well, in the process recording a time more than a second faster than any of today’s have managed at the distance. A similar run here will see him home on top.  (7) DOCTOR TANGO is yet to finish in the top three but enters off a solid 4th over 1300M when settling back and running on strong. The time was fair, and, in this company, she can be aiming to match or better. (10) CHONGAL CHARM races for the first time since bearing Doctor Tango as the pair ran 4th and 5th at this distance on March 11th. That was just his second start and with some natural improvement he too should be in this a long way. (9) NAREUCAT and (4) GOLDEN BROOM are others in the frame.

Selections(11) Indie Magic (7) Doctor Tango (10) Chongal Charm (9) Nareucat
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 10, 11
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 9)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open but attendance should be pre-booked though the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

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

A small field of maidens line up in the opener with four of the eight racing for the very first time. (3) BLOOD MOON significantly improved on her third start, coming home in 3rd place at this trip on March 13th. While the time was good, it was assisted by the wet track, but she won’t need to go much better to win this. Two of the first timers enter having won their respective trials in identical times. (4) KINGS EYE and (6) GOLDEN HONOR both sat back in their heats before working through the line well and this looks a very suitable first assignment for both, (8) PURPLE STORM has gone quite far in his two races so far but has finished off well enough to run 5th and 6th. Once again, he draws the widest gate but in this smaller field, it should be less of a concern, and he can improve. (5) HERA BLADE another who has hinted at ability and can aim for some money.

Selections(3) Blood Moon (4) Kings Eye (6) Golden Honor (8) Purple Storm
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

(7) TOUCH NINE registered his best finish on debut last November when 3rd over 1000M. Most recently he ran 4th in a small field at this distance having led for much of the race. Today he can sit handy and run on and in this modest company has every chance of a maiden win. (8) FAMILY CAPTAIN overcame a wide draw to finish a career-best 2nd at this distance on a sloppy track on March 13th. He goes back up a bit in the weights without an apprentice aboard, but that was an encouraging performance, and a similar showing today will have him right in this. (2) ORGALIM has five top-five finishes from seven starts. He draws well to be on pace here and will be in this a long way. (5) BLACK KING and (3) TIZ FIGHTING are among others with the potential to improve and challenge for the places.

Selections(7) Touch Nine (8) Family Captain (2) Orgalim (5) Black King
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky race this. On the grounds that he perhaps has better potential for improvement, we’ll side with (5) APPLE MINT, who will be the likely favourite having run 3rd over this distance on his latest start on March 13th when handy throughout and registering a time faster than any of today’s rivals have achieved. He draws a good gate and won’t need to go much better to win. (8) CLOUTER comes back in trip following back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1700M. Those were his best finishes from sixteen starts and he was ridden much more forward than he had been in previous outings. Another career-best finish is possible here. (1) DIVINE POWER actually beat Apple Mint when they raced over 1700M three starts back. He has since finished twice behind Clouter but comes back to a distance at which he has posted a good time and from the inside gate can be considered. Another back in trip following a pair of decent efforts at 1700M, including a runner-up finish, is (7) COUNTRY ROAD, and he along with the returning (3) SWEET JUICE BAR, who races for the first time in almost a year, are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(5) Apple Mint (8) Clouter (1) Divine Power (7) Country Road
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

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

Fillies and mares only here. (7) SUNNY BLADE got her maiden win two starts back over 1200 at class 6 level before running 5th on her first try at this level over 1300M on February 20th. She was handy throughout and while there was a good winner that day, Sunny Blade was only half a length behind 2nd. She should be close to the pace here again and, stretching out to 1400M for the first time, has solid claims. It’s been a while since (3) FORT SEUONE’s solitary win but at this level she regularly picks up a cheque. She too comes up to this distance for the first time and she too has every chance. (9) CHEONGDAM WICKED is two starts into a comeback following eight months out. She has previously run well at this trip and third-up today could be coming back to peak fitness. (1) CHEONSA PARK and (12) CUPID WONDER are others who can be in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Sunny Blade (3) Fort Seuone (9) Cheongdam Wicked (1) Cheonsa Park
Next Best12, 5
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 12
(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-by-Race Preview (April 8)

The Triple Crown for fillies gets underway on Sunday at Busan in the form of the Luna Stakes. Seven fillies from Seoul have made the trip and that means seven jockeys have too and the likes of Moon Se-young, Park Tae-jong, Ham Wan-sik and Song Jae-chul are all in action on the south coast on Friday as well. There are 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. All betting locations are open but attendance should be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Moon Se-young is among several Seoul jockeys in action at Busan this weekend

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

Maiden three-year-olds open proceedings and it’s very competitive. (1) PYEONGHWA CHUKJE probably has enough to make her a worthy favourite. She led on debut at this distance on February 20th, ultimately coming home in 4th place. She draws nicely again and with a bit o natural improvement she can win here. There are four first-time starters and among them, (11) LET IT GO caught the eye when a close 3rd in a trial in a fast time. The track was very wet so the time may be a bit artificially quick but if she brings that kind of form to the races, she will go close. (9) TRIPLE THUNDER has run fairly in two starts so far and should be in the mix here, while (3) CROWD ONE too has improved across her three outings. Seoul’s perennial champion jockey Moon Se-young is in town this weekend to ride in Sunday’s Luna Stakes and accordingly (10) DOKBO may not offer much value but likewise shouldn’t be discounted.

Selections(1) Pyeonghwa Chukje (11) Let It Go (9) Triple Thunder (3) Crowd One
Next Best10, 12
Fast Start1, 4, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies (and one mare). (2) GASOK DAY has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over 1200M on March 4th when she settled midfield and ran on well. She draws well here, the additional half-furlong can suit, and she looks to be the one to beat. (12) MISS VALOR makes her racing debut having gone through two trials. She improved at the latest of those two weeks ago and while the time may have been assisted by the very wet track, she looks capable of a bold showing first-up here. (8) BAEDARI ICON is at the other end of the experience scale, having raced twelve times already. She comes in here following the best of those when 3rd at his distance on February 18th. She tends to get a bit far back in her races, but this should suit and it’s not impossible it could be her day at last. (11) LADY GOLDEN and (10) ADELE GOLD among others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Gasok Day (12) Miss Valor (8) Baedari Icon (11) Lady Golden
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A competitive maiden here. Despite the draw, we’ll take a chance on (12) HAPPY SONG SONG, who showed good improvement at her latest start on March 13th when she sat handy and ran on well for 3rd place over 1300M. She steps up to this trip for the first time and while she may need a touch of luck in the early stages, she can win. (5) DOCTOR KONGDOLI has certainly mixed his form across four starts so far but has registered a 2nd and a 4th. He has a good draw today and looks right in this. (7) HERO MAN has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before and in this company can be aiming for the places. (1) B.J. CHIEF was an improved 3rd over a mile at his latest start and along with (10) ZET CASH is another who in the minor money frame.

Selections(12) Happy Song Song (5) Doctor Kongdoli (7) Hero Man (1) B.J. Chief
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Draw a line through the latest showing from (11) RAON THE TANK when 7th of ten in the Gyeonnam Shinmun Cup, Busan’s Classic trial. At the start before, he was a good winner over 1300M at class 6 level and while he does draw wide here, has every chance of returning to the winner’s circle today. We will extend the same courtesy to (1) DOCTOR KONGSUNI, who used up a lot of energy early from a wide gate last time out. While she is yet to win from four starts, she recorded two good runner-up finishes at class 6 level and from a much better gate today, can go close. (4) SKY WIN and (9) CHEONGMA YEONGUNG came home 3rd and 4th when they raced one another over class and distance on March 4th. They both come in under the same conditions here and should be competitive again. (2) GALAXY ORB gets a long overdue class drop and is among others in the frame.

Selections(11) Raon The Tank (1) Doctor Kongsuni (4) Sky Win (9) Cheongma Yeongung
Next Best2, 12
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

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

After trying to hurdle the rail on debut, (5) USURP has won both subsequent starts in good fashion most recently when handy and running on over 1300M at class 5 level on February 25th. He comes up in class again today but comes down slightly in weight and has every chance of winning again. (11) ALIVE STAR has had an interrupted career so far but has been finally able to put together a string of races and is showing his talent. He comes up in class here following an 2nd place and a 3rd place at class 5 and while he doesn’t get the best of the draw, he should be measuring up at this level. (2) INDIAN PARTY is an interesting one. Still a maiden after twenty-six attempts, he nevertheless has a remarkable eleven top three finishes. He comes up in class here but is very solid at this distance, comes down in the weights, draws well and may not be far away again. (1) BUSAN MISO and (6) ILBEONJI, who can have a line drawn through her latest, are others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Usurp (11) Alive Star (2) Indian Party (1) Busan Miso
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 11

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI has been a model of consistency across eight starts so far, picking up three wins. He was a touch disappointing last time out on March 13th when 5th at class and distance, but from a good draw and slightly down in the weights, looks well worth another chance in this company. 3rd in that same race was (1) NAEGA SAEGANGJA. The experienced six-year-old was totally unfancied that day but is well established at this class, comes down in the weights under today’s handicap conditions, has a top jockey booking and should be dangerous. (11) AMAZING FOOT returns to action for the first time since last November. He had lost his way a touch before the layoff but had shown ability and had run some fast times. We won’t read too much into his fast trial a couple of weeks ago, but he could go well first-up today. (10) TOP ACE and (7) QUEEN MARVEL IJI are others to take note of.

Selections(3) Busanhang Galmaegi (1) Naega Saegangja (11) Amazing Foot (10) Top Ace
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 10, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

The banker favourite of the day goes around here. (4) WININNG DANCER was a very good winner in a fast time at class and distance two starts back before running 3rd at his latest outing on March 6th. From a good draw, he can sit handy early here and should prove too strong at the business end of the race. (7) DOCTOR FASHION is a class and distance winner too and while his latest two have been a little lackluster, he comes in fresh following a twelve-week layoff and may well benefit. He should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (3) WONDERFUL PEACE came home 4th behind Winning Dancer in that March 6th race and from a much better gate, can be considered for equal or better here. (6) BURNING FLY comes up in class but shouldn’t have too much to fear here while (2) B.K. LOOKS races for the first time since October but trialed well last weekend.

Selections(4) Winning Dancer (7) Doctor Fashion (3) Wonderful Peace (6) Burning Fly
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 8: Class 1 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million

A winner of seven from eight so far with his only defeat coming in a Group race at a mile, (7) SUCCESS MACHO makes his class 1 debut here having won at this distance at class 2 level in a fast time on February 13th. That was his first try at this trip, he carries a very light weight here and he has every chance of measuring up. (10) SMART PRINCE is a multiple winner at class 1 level already, including two of his latest three. He remains nicely in the weights here and such is his running style, the widest gate won’t matter. He will be rattling home late on. (9) DOMINATION ran 2nd to Success Macho in that February 13th race and joins him up in class. While there are perhaps a few more question marks over him than the favourite, this is the kind of race where he has every chance of measuring up. (3) GEUMA MYSTIC and (1) POWER WONDERFUL are others in the frame.

Selections(7) Success Macho (10) Smart Prince (9) Domination (3) Geuma Mystic
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 9

Sunday Seoul & Busan International Exchange Race Day: Race-by-Race Preview (April 3)

Big prizes on offer with five international trophy exchange races to be run on Sunday. At Seoul, where there is an 11-race card from 10:45 to 18:00, the Turkey Jockey Club (TJK) Trophy and the Gold Circle Trophy will be run. At Busan, where there is a 6-race card from 12:00 to 16:40, the Selangor Turf Club, China Horse Industry Association, and Tokyo City Keiba Trophies are all on the agenda. All betting locations are open, but attendance should be pre-booked using the MyCard app:

Do Kki Blade goes in a non-Trophy Class 1 race on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Maiden three-year-old fillies in the opener and a couple come in looking ready to win. (1) SUPERDIA ran 3rd on debut over 1000M in January before stepping up to this trip on February 27th and leading for much of the way, ultimately coming home in 5th place, around four-lengths behind the winner. Drawn nicely, she can lead again, and this time go all the way. (4) WONDERFUL KITTY has claims on favourite status. She has the fastest time among these for the distance and comes in following a good 3rd place last time out. Her style has been to go back and to run on, she has some good final furlong times and will be coming home strongly here. (10) MAGIC MOCCASIN hasn’t been seen since her debut on Boxing Day when she led over 1000M, finishing 4th. Despite the wide draw, she can be on or close to the pace again and can be a danger. (2) LAROMANEE and (8) HIGH RUNNER, who came home 4th and 5th when they raced each other on February 19th, are others who can at least challenge for places.

Selections(1) Superdia (4) Wonderful Kitty (10) Magic Moccasin (2) Laromanee
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A very competitive maiden. (9) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN looks among the readiest to win, coming in as she does off a good 2nd place at class and distance on February 20th, when she was handy to the lead throughout. She should be on or close to the pace again and will be in this a long way. (11) OKDONG GONGJU has registered some good times for the distance and while she is yet to win in twelve attempts, she is consistent and enters having run 4th at her latest outing. She will probably be ridden patiently again and can run home strong. The draw doesn’t do her any favours though and nor does it for (12) EUNHYE DREAM although given her running style in her latest two, it may not be too damaging to her chances. She has run on for 3rd and a pair of 4th place finishes from her latest three and can be in the money hunt again. (2) V QUEEN and (4) HELLO GEUMSEONG are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Sojunghan Dangsin (11) Okdong Gongju (12) Eunhye Dream (2) V Queen
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start3, 9, 10, 12

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

Tricky maiden. (11) LONDON POWER has a decent start, a decent finish and has registered acceptable times for the distance and that combination may be enough to see her home on top here. The draw means she may need a touch of luck in the early stages, but if she can find a good position, she can win. (2) ONCHEONHA has a 2nd and a 3rd to his name from seven starts so far. He draws well to be able to take up a spot just behind the speed and then run on. (9) CHEONJI JIDAE also has a 2nd place to his name at this distance. Draw a line through his latest when he drew gate fourteen and he can be given another chance in this limited company. Given that this is not a deep field form wise, the two first-time starters can also be given a chance. (3) TROTTING RILEY and (6) GRAY THOR both posted fair times in their heats and couldn’t really ask for a softer race to start their careers in.

Selections(11) London Power (2) Oncheonha (9) Cheonji Jidae (3) Trotting Riley
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) GOLD TAP ran out a winner on debut over 1200M, sitting handy early and then running on well for a narrow score. He comes up in class and in trip today but draws significantly better and has every chance of measuring up in this company. The logical main danger is (7) DOCTOR TEXAS. He has run some good and consistent times at this distance, should be on pace here and can be in this a long way. He will need to overturn the form on (4) FRIGATE BIRD, who beat him when they raced each other at this distance back on January 28th. Frigate Bird is up 3kg in the weights on that day but enters in solid form and can have placing ambitions again. (9) GEUMBIT SKY has shown hints of returning to some kind of form in his latest two, and along with (3) SUN MOUNTAIN, is among the others who can find some minor money.

Selections(2) Gold Tap (7) Doctor Texas (4) Frigate Bird (9) Geumbit Sky
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 9

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

(5) FLYING ATHENA has been beaten into 2nd place in both of her last two starts, both times as favourite. She accordingly has to come up in class here, but she looks to have more improvement in her and from a nice draw she can win. She only has a nose to overturn on (12) WILD SOCKS, who beat her when they raced each other at this distance at class 6 level on March 5th. Wild Socks sat back that day and ran on, just getting there in time. He comes up in class too and the draw isn’t ideal, but he will certainly be a danger again. (11) BURUI KKOT is yet to win in five outings and like Flying Athena, got promoted to this level with back-to-back runner-up finishes. However, she has never finished worse than 5th and she has already been tested at this class and came through it well when 3rd over 1400M on February 26th. She can be a danger here. (2) COMPLETE LUCKY is another maiden up in class but is nicely in here to get a forward position early and can be in this a long way. (4) REMARKABLE also in the hunt.

Selections(5) Flying Athena (12) Wild Socks (11) Burui Kkot (2) Complete Lucky
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Draw a line through the latest outing from (4) MONEY CASE, his first at this class, on February 25th when drawn in gate thirteen over 1300M he worked hard to find a position and ultimately came home in midfield. Instead go on his effort two starts back when making all to win over 1200M at class 6 level. Back in trip today and nicely drawn, he looks the one to beat. (9) ALPHA SONGDANG is up in class having secured her maiden win at start number two over this distance on February 25th. She made all that day and while the draw isn’t quite ideal, she should have enough early speed to get across to challenge for the lead and can potentially go all the way. (6) HARDY CHARLIE can mix his form. He got a bit left behind last time out when never a factor over this distance, but he draws better today and with a better start, can go close. (3) OREUDA and (10) OMEGA GIRL among others who can challenge for some minor money.

Selections(4) Money Case (9) Alpha Songdang (6) Hardy Charlie (3) Oreuda
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

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

(7) TEAM IMPACT led from gate to wire on debut over 1200M on February 26th. He comes up in class here and marginally in trip as well but can get to the lead again and should have too much for this field. (5) BLACK MASK remains a maiden after four outings, but has never finished any worse than 3rd, a finish she achieved at this class and distance on March 6th, when she led for much of the race. She comes up slightly in the weights today but has solid claims to go close once again. So too (1) HEUNGHAENG DAEBAK. He too led at his latest start at class and distance on February 27th, ultimately running a very close 2nd to a good winner. He gets a great draw here and will be a threat. (12) ECTON JILJU doesn’t get a very good gate but comes in off a 2nd place at class and distance and with some early luck can be in this too. (2) CHAMPION GAMUN was 3rd behind Ecton Jilju on March 5th, a race he was sent off as favourite for, and can also be given another chance here.

Selections(7) Team Impact (5) Black Mask (1) Heunghaeng Daebak (12) Ecton Jilju
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12
(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 2)

The weekend’s racing moves on to Seoul on Saturday with a nine-race card from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings. (6) CLAIR BEST is the clear pick. Having run 4th on debut last September, he didn’t appear again until February 26th when he settled midfield and ran on strongly for 2nd place over 1200M. He should have come on for the run, the additional half-furlong should suit, and he can win this. (1) CUPID SAFE has had a similarly interrupted career, racing once last autumn and then not again until February 19th. She too showed improvement, stepping up to this trip and running 3rd. Nicely drawn on the inside she can make further progress here. (3) DONGBANGUI HON looks to be figuring things out after four appearances, grinding out a solid 3rd place at this distance and can build on that here. (4) DISCO BOY and the solitary debut-maker (8) NAMSAN BYTE are others who could potentially trouble the scorers.

Selections(6) Clair Best (1) Cupid Safe (3) Dongbangui Hon (4) Disco Boy
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 9

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

More three-year-old maidens. (5) COMPLETE WEAPON was sent off as favourite on debut on having won a trial in fast time. While he was up with the pace early, he didn’t quite see the race out, ultimately finishing 7th of fourteen. He should have come on for that experience though and with not much to beat here, will be favourite again and this time should make no mistake. There are four first-time starters and of them (1) HANGANG DOLPUNG looks to have the best first-up claims. He ran on well enough in his trial in a fair time and the 1200M looks a suitable starting point for him. (7) SAEBYEOK BAND should have come on for a debut where he didn’t do too much wrong when 7th of eleven over this distance having drawn the widest gate. With some natural improvement he can go close here. (2) SONGAM LEGEND and (3) WHIZ UP are others to enter the minor money calculations.

Selections(5) Complete Weapon (1) Hangang Dolpung (7) Saebyeok Band (2) Songam Legend
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

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

Another set of three-year-old maidens. (4) EAGLE POINT races for the first time since January but did manage to catch the eye in his opening two races, especially when a swift 2nd on debut last November. In both his starts he has settled back and run on, and he should be too good here in a race with very limited form. Of those with prior experience, (8) NONSTOP ALI is the only one to have shown anything when 5th at his most recent outing on March 6th. He does though possess a little bit of early speed and that should be enough to put him right in this. Aside from that, we turn to the first-time starters. (1) ROMA BLADE did at least win her most recent trial although the time was so slow, she was the only one to qualify out of it. (5) KING HONOR improved on his second trial and with natural improvement here can challenge for some minor money. Returning to the experienced ones, (2) CONCORD SPARK has been back to trial since her inauspicious debut and may be ready for another go.

Selections(4) Eagle Point (8) Nonstop Ali (1) Roma Blade (5) King Honor
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (6) EAST MAGIC has put in some consistent, if unspectacular, performances across eight starts so far and while she has never finished any better than 4th, that should change here. She has a solid start, can run on well and has posted some acceptable times. That together may be enough to see her home on top here. (2) INVICTUS was a much-improved 2nd at her latest start over 1300M on March 6th, only going down narrowly. She draws a much better gate this time, Johan Victoire remains aboard, and a similar performance will see her going very close here. (11) HWANGGEUM DALBIT has two 3rd places to her name and races for the first time since Christmas Day but did show reasonably well in a trial at the end of February. She likes to be on pace so may need a touch of luck from the wide draw but shouldn’t be dismissed. (8) HWARYEOHAN MISO and (1) DAESEUNG GAON are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(6) East Magic (2) Invictus (11) Hwanggeum Dalbit (8) Hwaryeohan Miso
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start5, 6, 10, 11

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

It’s hard to look too far past (3) TIZ BAROWS here. He has a win, and two runner-up finishes from three starts so far with the latest of those 2nd places coming at this class and distance on February 19th when sitting handy to midfield from gate twelve and running on, beaten only by a long-shot winner. His draw is significantly better today, and he should have too much. (7) SPEAR GUN is the logical second pick, based on his last start runner-up finish at class and distance on March 5th, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. He is likely to settle handy here and can run on strong again. (10) RUFFIAN PARK enters in good form with back-to-back 3rd place finishes from his latest two appearances, both at this class and distance. He has no fewer than six 3rd place finishes to his name and could be in line for another here. (1) STORM WARRIOR ran 4th behind Spear Gun two starts back and then repeated that finish two weeks ago, again at class and distance. Drawn well today, he can go close. (6) CHEONGSAN GANGHO among others in the placing frame.

(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 1)

April’s racing gets underway with an 8-race card at Busan on Friday running from 12:00 to 18:00. All betting locations will be open, however, attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens to kick things off and there are a few who look ready to win. (3) TWO OF US won a trial in good style, leading her to be sent off as favourite on debut at this distance on February 25th. She sat handy throughout, ultimately finishing in 2nd place and with some natural improvement, as well as a good gate, can go one better this time. (2) SAEROUN HAMAN has been consistent across three starts so far with his best being 3rd place in a time a full second faster than any of the others have achieved at this distance. He tends to get back in his races but finishes off well and can go close here. The other logical on at the top of tickets will be (6) DONGBU WORLD. He was well back on debut before running on for 4th but was handy to the lead on his second outing on March 6th at 1300M when he ended up in 2nd and a similar run will put him firmly in this. There are two first-time starters and of them (12) GOLDEN POINT looked well in his trial and can put in a bold showing first up. (5) DOCTOR PENTAGON another in the frame.

Selections(3) Two Of Us (2) Saeroun Haman (6) Dongbu World (12) Golden Point
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 9

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

Maiden fillies and mares here. (9) DOCTOR CANDY has shown an uptick in form in her latest two, most recently just two weeks ago when 3rd over 1300M with a front-running performances. She backs up quickly, looks nicely in here, and this could be her day. (6) FANTASTIC MAGIC returned from four months out to run 2nd over 1200M on March 4th when handy early and briefly leading. She won’t need to go much better here to have winning chances. (4) MAHAMERU didn’t exactly catch the eye in two outings last autumn when 6th on both occasions at 1000M. The latest of those was on November 6th, but she looked a completely different prospect when on pace and 2nd in a fast time in a trial two weeks and improvement will be expected here. (10) ARTIE’S GAL has been well backed on all her seven outings to date with a best finish being two 3rd places. Despite the wide draw she should be on pace here and can go close. Under a very light weight, (7) SEUNGNIUI BULGIL may sneak some minor money.

Selections(9) Doctor Candy (6) Fantastic Magic (4) Mahameru (10) Artie’s Gal
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(3) JJANG I first trialed up all the way back in August 2020 and finally makes it to the races. It’s hard to have a huge among of confidence in him as his most recent trial was back in January but it was a good performance, as he led and ultimately was a close 2nd in a fast time. He draws well to be on pace, and he won’t find a better race to debut in. (8) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG hasn’t shown much in the way of speed across four starts so far, but he has run consistently, finishing no worse than 5th and with a best of 2nd, two starts back at 1200M when she went right back and ran on. At her latest she was ridden on pace, coming home 3rd, and she should be a big player here. For the first time (1) MILK DAY draws a decent gate for the first time, having received no better than in gate nine in six previous outings. That may have contributed to him getting a long way back, but he overcame that for a good 3rd at his last start and should be in the hunt today. (2) SORI TAEPUNG and (11) GALLOP BOY are others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Jjang I (8) Eunseong Yeongung (1) Milk Day (2) Sori Taepung
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 12

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

A small field here and it’s hard to look very far past (7) HAMYANGEUN SANSAM. He was flawless on debut just two weeks ago when leading all the way for an eleven-length win and while he is up in class today, he comes down in the weights and should have too much. (8) JATNAMUGIL was a winner three starts back at class 6 level and since then has run 5th and 2nd in two outings at this class. He overcame gate twelve last time out and can be handy and then running on strong here. (4) UNJU BULPAE comes up in class having secured his maiden win at start number six on March 6th. It had been coming with two placings leading up to it, including a 3rd behind Jatnamugil, and he should be able to measure up in this company. (2) JUMAL BOBAE is another who has beaten Unju Bulpae, which he did when getting his sole win to date in January. He comes in after an in no way disgraced 5th place in the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy over 1400M, and this is a softer assignment. Another up in class, (3) GREEN CHEETAH, can also enter the calculations.

Selections(7) Hamyangeun Sansam (8) Jatnamugil (4) Unju Bulpae (2) Jumal Bobae
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 8

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

(2) FLYING THE CHAMP broke through in emphatic fashion at start number three on March 6th when he settled midfield but having struck the front midway through the race, ran on to win by nine-lengths over the 1300M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip but draws very nicely and is very much the one to beat again. (9) POWER GUY was a winner on debut at 1200M on March 4th when settling back and then running on very pleasingly. He comes up in class and in trip but neither should be an issue and he can be a danger to the favourite. So too can (4) HAMAN BONGHWASAN. She will need to be forgiven her first attempt at class and distance on March 4th when she weakened, but she had shown ability in her previous two and can bounce back here. (3) GREEN PAPAGO too only ran fairly on her first try at this class. She too had gone well previously and can be given another chance here. (8) QUEEN STAR another who could place.

Selections(2) Flying The Champ (9) Power Guy (4) Haman Bonghwasan (3) Green Papago
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Competitive race. (6) HWARANG BEST comes back in trip following a 5th place over 1400M at his latest start on February 11th. He has won at this distance and has posted good times as well and from a good gate, can win this. (10) H DAY is probably going to be the favourite. She comes up rapidly in class having won two of four starts so far, including at this distance last time out. He has won when racing handy and when settling back, and under a light weight she will be a major player here. (9) BEAUTIFUL KING comes up in class after an all the way win over this distance on March 4th. Today’s conditions means that despite the class rise, he also goes up in the weights, but he can still be competitive in this company. (5) DONGNAM BULPAE is another up in class following a last start win at 1400M. From a good draw, he should be on pace here and be in this a long way. (11) BANJIUI MAGIC another in the minor money hunt.

Selections(6) Hwarang Best (10) H Day (9) Beautiful King (5) Dongnam Bulpae
Next Best11, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Small but competitive field. (1) JESSIEUI KKUM comes up in class following back-to-back wins over this distance at class 4 level. He draws well here, comes down slightly in the weights and can settle back and run on to complete a hat-trick of wins. (7) GEUMA PSYCHIC has been doing his recent work over 1200M, posting some consistently good times. He has six top-two finishes from eleven starts and has run well at this distance too. Tactically versatile, he will probably go forward to the speed here and can be considered. (6) QUATTRO MAX is a bit of a non-winner with just one of his eleven top-three finishes being on top. He is of course a model of consistency and comes back in trip after recent efforts over a mile and 1800M. He has solid placing claims again in this company. (2) BABEL HIT has the fastest time of any of these over the distance and while he can mix his form, he has placing claims here, along with (8) JANGSAN BOBBY.

Selections(1) Jessieui Kkum (7) Geuma Psychic (6) Quattro Max (2) Babel Hit
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

Busan Race 8: Class 2 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(9) FANTASTIC MAN broke the track record at 2000M (albeit on a very fast running surface) last November, which punched his ticket to the President’s Cup in Seoul later in the month. His 5th from gate fifteen that day wasn’t bad and while he hasn’t really impressed in three starts since, there is evident ability there and this looks set to suit. (5) B.K JOHN was a class and distance winner last November and has been consistent in three starts since with two 4ths and a 3rd. He can sit midfield here and run on and has every chance of going close. (7) MAN OF TOP was a swift winner over a mile at class 3 level two starts back before running well for 5th over 2000M on his first try at this class on March 6th when handy to the lead throughout. He is nicely weighted again and can be a danger. (6) JANGSAN DOKKI and (3) DIAMOND MARINE are others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Fantastic Man (5) B.K John (7) Man Of Top (6) Jangsan Dokki
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

Donga Ilbo Trophy Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-by-Race Preview (March 27)

Sunday is Donga Ilbo Trophy day at Seoul where there are 11 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Busan also runs a card with 6 races from 12:00 to 16:40. The Donga Ilbo is for fillies and mares and it could be something of a family affair with Raon First set to be hot favourite with her younger “full” sister Raon Pink one of her leading rivals. Also at Seoul Haengbok Wangja makes his first appearance since winning the Grand Prix Stakes in December, while at Busan there is a very tasty feature in prospect as the up and coming Barbarian takes on KRA Cup Classic winner Mr. Afleet, as well as Yeongung Louis and Doctor Carson in a cracking class 1 sprint over 1400M. All betting locations across Korea are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Raon First is in action at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens open the card with four of the twelve racing for the very first time. We’re set for a hot favourite in the shape of (5) QUEENUI JILJU. Having finished 3rd on debut over 1000M on Boxing Day, she stepped up to this trip on February 12th and ran 2nd having been handy throughout. The time was only fair although faster than anything else here has achieved so far and a similar run here will see her hard to beat. (3) MARUMA ran 5th from a wide gate on debut over 1000M before only managing 8th second-up at this trip. He should have come on for those experiences and in this company can be given another chance. (2) OKCHEON CHOEGANG debuts following two positive trials, crossing the line 2nd and 3rd in fair times. That’s enough to see him firmly in the hunt first up. (8) BURUI JILJU and (1) NAOL SESANG perhaps have the potential to improve.

Selections(5) Queenui Jilju (3) Maruma (2) Okcheon Choegang (8) Burui Jilju
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 11

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

Maiden fillies here and it’s competitive. We’ll go with (5) BARO QUEEN who seems to be figuring things out with five starts underneath her best. She comes in following back-to-back 3rd places at this distance, last time away slowly from a wide draw and then working home well. The draw is in her favour this time and she may well lead. If she does, she has every chance of staying there. (10) GOLDEN SCOOP will probably be the favourite. She beat Baro Queen when 2nd on January 22nd and followed it up with a 3rd place, again at this distance, a month ago.  She’s trialed well since then and looks to have big chance. (9) NAMSAN KKOT has raced just the once, when 3rd at this distance last October in a good time. She didn’t offer too many clues when trialing earlier this month, but she should be kept safe. (6) HWIPARAM and (3) WONDERFUL HAWAII among others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Baro Queen (10) Golden Scoop (9) Namsan Kkot (6) Hwiparam
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 10

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

It’s hard to look too far past (11) FLY STAR here. Having run 5th on debut at 1400M, he dopped back to 1300M for his second start on February 27th and led almost the entire way around, ultimately ending in 2nd, beaten by a very good winner. He comes back in trip again and while the gate is not the best, he is very much the one to beat. (5) MIDAS CAMP had a hard time from a wide draw on his latest outing over 1300M on February 20th. Disregard that and instead go on is 3rd place in a good time in January. He can sit on speed or handy here and should be a different prospect today. (4) NAOL ACE improved at start number two on January 22nd when handy throughout and finishing 4th. He comes up in trip for the first time today and there is no reason why it can’t suit. (1) MUNHAK FOREST and (12) MABAWI are among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(11) Fly Star (5) Midas Camp (4) Naol Ace (1) Munhak Forest
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener on the South-Coast. There is plenty of winning potential among them but (9) JOSEPHINE QUEEN should have a little too much. She was a good 2nd in a super time over this distance on February 13th when she sat handy then briefly led before being beaten by a good winner. She can sit handy again and a similar run will see her home on top here. (7) FLOWING RIVER has run 3rd in both starts so far at 1000M and 1200M. The little extra trip may well suit and he should have some more to offer. Park Jae-I rode Flowing River in both his races so far but today he stays aboard (3) GREAT CAPTAIN. He comes in having beaten three of these on his way to 3rd place at class and distance on February 27th. He draws a similarly good gate, carries the same weight, and can be a danger again. (5) DOCTOR PERSIA came home 5th in the same race on what was his first start, and he can build on that here. (8) INDY CHOICE another in the hunt.

Selections(9) Josephine Queen (7) Flowing River (3) Great Captain (5) Doctor Persia
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

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

Tricky race. (3) KING MOUNTAIN weakened late on having led for much of the way around over 1700M on February 27th, ultimately finishing 6th of twelve. Two starts back, he ran a very good 2nd over 1300M behind Titan Socks, who has since won again at a higher level. He can be on pace again today and the drop back in trip should suit. (4) K N PARK showed significant improvement at his latest outing over this distance on February 20th, when going back and improving late on. The same apprentice jockey keeps the weight nice and light today and he should be working home well again here. (5) HONEY PUNCH too showed improvement at her most recent appearance on February 26th. She has gone back in all her races so far, but this time made up really good ground late on and a similar run will put her right in this. (7) TIFFANY BLUE and (2) FLYING BARBIE are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(3) King Mountain (4) K N Park (5) Honey Punch (7) Tiffany Blue
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 10

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

(1) RADAR has been a beaten favourite on both starts to date, most recently at odds-on when 3rd having been a close 2nd on debut. She had the excuse of gate fourteen that day but should get a much easier run to the lead from the inside this time around and it really should be third-time lucky. (2) HWARANG ACE showed some ability as he gradually got closer across three starts last autumn, with a best of 4th at this distance in November. He hasn’t raced since but looks to have held his form if his trial two weeks ago is anything to go by when he led, crossing the line 2nd in a fast time. Expect him on speed and in this a long way. (3) EUNBIT JILJU wet right back on debut but made-up good ground for 5th. She should have come on for that run and can get closer today. (8) BOOMY STAR and (5) BABEL PHOENIX are others capable of putting in good runs.

Selections(1) Radar (2) Hwarang Ace (3) Eunbit Jilju (8) Boomy Star
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4
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