Racing Previews

Korean Derby Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 2)

It’s finally here. The generation that risked being forgotten or worse, finally gets its Derby at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. There are 12 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 while there is also a card at Busan. Racing remains behind closed doors.

Roller Blade

Roller Blade is back. But have the others left him behind? (Pic: KRA)

KRA Cup Mile winner Touch Star Man heads the field but it’s a race with at least nine live chances. Champion juvenile Roller Blade finally returns while the likes of Determination look to have been screaming out for this kind of distance.

Here are previews of all of Seoul’s Sunday races with horse-by-horse for the Korean Derby, which has a post time of 5pm in Seoul:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

The Korean-bred two-year-old gallopers will kick the twelve-event card off at Seoul on Sunday. The trial of (6) WHITE CHARM last month was very good suggesting the Cowboy Cal colt can put his best foot forward on debut. With a central draw it is expected that Kim Dong-soo will work forward on the grey and find a position in the leading division. The time he clocked in the trial was good enough to ensure he is there come the business end of the race. (11) CHEONGDAM WICKED is another debutant that trialed well back in June. The Menifee filly is another likely to be fired up early and sit prominent in the run. (8) JILJU DAERO is one of a few runners engaged that has had a previous start. The colt finished fourth on debut behind the impressive Heungbaragi. (7) ELITE RULES looks a place chance at best after a trial that was fair.

Selections (6) White Charm (11) Cheongdam Wicked (8) Jilju Daero (7) Elite Rules
Next Best 9, 3
Fast Start 3, 6, 11

 

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

Three-year-old maidens here with all but one of them having raced at least once before. Only one of them has troubled the judges so far. That’s (8) YONGMARU GU, who ran an improved 2nd on his second outing on July 4th at this distance beaten by well thought-of Soseono Legend. In doing so, he recorded the best time of any of these who have attempted this distance and while that is an extremely modest achievement, it should be enough to put him firmly in the frame here. (6) EUNHYE PADO has shown herself capable of running a useful time as well and tries her luck in softer company today. She gets well back in her races but seems to have a good finish on her and should improve today. (11) PIEONADA got a dreadful trip but still managed to finish 5th on debut at this distance and can build on it today. As for the solitary debut-maker, (2) MYEONGMA TIME went through a couple of trials in good order, running through the line well in both of them and couldn’t really have picked a more accommodating race to debut in.

Selections (8) Yongmaru Gu (6) Eunhye Pada (2) Myeongma Time (11) Pieonada
Next Best 9, 10
Fast Start 5, 11

 

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

The third on the card has a mixture of two and three-year-old gallopers to line up over the 1300m. (7) NINE EYE comes out of much stronger events where he clocked some good times over the short course. The Menifee colt has been hitting the line in good style which suggests the 1300m should suit. Moon Se-young will be legged aboard the two-year-old for the first time, which is always a good sign. (2) GOLDEN SWITCH is second up after a midfield performance behind Hansen Choice last start. The filly’s times have been fair and with some improvement second-up, she can run into the money. (1) GOVERNANCE looks next best and with a good draw is capable of sitting closer to the speed today. She passed a couple in the straight last time out over the six furlongs. (4) ACE HAMSEONG looks an each-way chance after finishing second last time out over the 1300m. His time was only fair but with some improvement he is a chance of figuring.

Selections (7) Nine Eye (2) Golden Switch (1) Governance (4) Ace Hamseong
Next Best 10, 8
Fast Start 8

 

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

(9) GAJA PLAN was an impressive all the way maiden winner over 1000M on July 5th on what was her third career start. She is up in both class and distance today but while the draw may not be as favourable for her getting an easy lead, she has claims again. (8) GOLD FIELD also got her maiden win at her latest start, albeit for her it was the fifteenth time of asking. So long at class 6 would suggest the transition to the higher grade isn’t going to be easy, however, the time she ran was faster than all but one of her rivals here have achieved at this distance and she must be given another chance. Another up in class is (1) GLORY FIGHTER. She remains a maiden but has finished 3rd on three occasions. Moon Se Young rode her on the most recent of those and sticks with her today. She should be competitive. As for those with experience of this level already, (2) YEOLRIN MUN ran out a solid 2nd over 1400M on July 5th. He has won at this distance already and is nicely drawn to get to the lead once more.

Selections (2) Yeolrin Mun (9) Gaja Plan (1) Glory Fighter (8) Gold Field
Next Best 7, 6
Fast Start 2, 5, 6, 9

 

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

Ten Korean-bred gallopers line up in the fifth where the majority of the runners appear to be out of form. (9) RIDE LUCKY is the one engagement that brings a last start win into the race, which he brought up at start two. He will carry the same weight with the claim of Moon Sung-hyeok being applied. He showed plenty of speed first up when clocking a good time for this grade. (1) NONGBUI SUCHEAHWA looks to map in the first four in running. Kim Yong-geun will be legged aboard for the first time, with the filly drawn the inside for her ninth assignment. She has placed on four occasions from eight starts and this looks weaker than previous assignments. (8) MENI STAND is second up after a reasonable performance when finishing fourth behind Songnam Tiz first up. The Menifee filly should improve off the run, 1200m is not an ideal distance with her best performances over 1000m. She will need to start running out a strong six furlongs (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 1)

Saturday is Korean Derby Eve in Seoul and there are 15 races (sadly behind closed doors) running from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Mask Gaon Champ

Mask, seen here denying Gaon Champ in the Sports Seoul a couple of years ago, returns on Saturday (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

The two-year-old gallopers will kick proceedings off as they line up over the short course. With ten debutants lining up it is always hard to know what they are hiding up their sleeve. Whilst saying that, we are happy to elect (6) BLACK CHARM as the on top selection, who is one of two gallopers who has had a start. The Testa Matta colt flew from the tail on debut when near last on the home turn, to finish third behind Fort Seuone. The danger lies with how far back he gets but if he is in touch, he should go past these. (10) CHIEF INDY will be watched with interest as he lines up for his first start. The colt was not overly asked for in his trial and will have the services of Moon Se-young. (8) LUCKY CLUB finished midfield behind a very handy type in Heungbaragi last time out where they clocked a good time. He looks an each-way chance in the event. (7) ADAMS APPLE looks next best of the debutants coming into the race. The Hansen filly clocked a reasonable time on a dry track, with some improvement out of the trial she can run into the money.

Selections (6) Black Charm (10) Chief Indy (8) Lucky Club (7) Adams Apple
Next Best 11, 3
Fast Start 3, 9, 10

 

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

A big prize on offer for imported juveniles (and Happy Birthday to the two southern hemisphere runners who turn three today but remain eligible). (6) AUCKLAND SOCKS went up against another promising newcomer, Legend Day, on debut on July 19th. He came off second best over 1200M but should have come on for the experience and looks nicely in here. In the same race, (2) GEOMISON ran 7th in the same race which was somewhat disappointing after he debuted well behind Mighty New, who has since won again, in June. He should be on speed early though and dropping back to 1000M may help. There are some promising first-timers. Moon Se Young rode Auckland Socks two weeks ago but this time gets on (5) SIRIUS A for top trainer Park Dae-heung. The Malibu Moon colt trialed up solidly, if unspectacularly three weeks ago. Most impressive in trials though was (7) BALVENIE, who after qualifying in April went through another in June. The Will Take Charge colt won both and looked especially well in the second of those.

Selections (6) Auckland Socks (7) Balvenie (5) Sirius A (2) Geomison
Next Best 4
Fast Start 2, 4

 

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

The third on the card is a speedy affair where the Korean-bred maidens will up over the six furlongs. Expect (2) SHADOW QUEEN to fire out of the gates hard and take up the running. She looked the winner at the furlong pole last time out before being reeled in by Shiny Fire. She should be better for the run and punters know they will get a good sight with her racing pattern. (6) THUNDER K also felt the pinch late last start but clocked a reasonable time considering the race he is lining up in. He is another one that will end up in the leading division early on. (11) ULTRA ANNIE showed enough last preparation to suggest she will be one of the improvers in the event. The filly will be suited by the drop back to the 1200m after having enough in the latter stages of the 1400m event she lined up in last start. (3) BIANCA showed improvement last time out and looks a place chance at best.

Selections (2) Shadow Queen (6) Thunder K (11) Ultra Annie (3) Bianca
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 2, 3, 6, 11

 

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

(10) TONGIL JILJU showed significant improvement when running 2nd over this distance on July 12th at what for him was start number six. In doing so, he recorded the fastest time that any of these have set over 1200M and it’s not impossible he could come from off the pace to win today. (11) CUPID BISANG has been more consistent across her five outings so far. Her best came on debut at 1000M and the test for her will be if she can get to the lead – where she really needs to be – without using too much energy; a tough ask from the outside gate. Nevertheless, she shouldn’t be far away. (6) CHEON CHONG ran 4th behind Tongil Jilju three weeks ago and like that one, could finally be figuring things out. (9) ROAD ROSE has at least troubled the scorers on one occasion and looks nicely in here. (8) ANYANG HORANGI has good speed from the gate – at least compared with the rest of this lot – and should get to the lead/ The question is how long she can hold onto it.

Selections (10) Tongil Jilju (11) Cupid Bisang (6) Cheon Chong (8) Anyang Horangi
Next Best 9, 2
Fast Start 8, 9, 11

 

Race 5: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The three-year-old colts and fillies will line up in the fifth where there looks a handful of chances engaged. (4) DOKDO SARANG goes on top after finishing second on debut behind Raon Fashion. The Colors Flying filly let down with a nice turn of speed and whilst the time for the 1200m was not all that fast, it should be good enough to figure once again here. (11) A. P. PATEK is another that resumed in good style to finish second behind J.S. Power. The colt is likely to slot over after the start and stalk the leaders, before being asked for by Kim Yong-geun at the top of the straight. (6) HAECHAN has led and capitulated at both of his runs to date. He didn’t go down by a big margin last time out, at his second run back he should show improvement. (8) CHOTOMA debuts after some very handy trials. If he breaks cleanly it will be interesting to see what he can do. Keep him safe on an each-way basis.

Selections (4) Dokdo Sarang (11) A. P. Patek (6) Haechan (8) Chotoma
Next Best 2, 9
Fast Start 5, 6, 9

 

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

Just the fillies going here. (9) HAPPY MONTH has gone close on a number of occasions without having made the breakthrough. He ran a decent 4th at the distance last time and (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 31)

It’s finally Korean Derby weekend. The big race is at Seoul on Sunday but before that there is a 15-race card at Busan on Friday running from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Deep Mind 2019 Korean Oaks

Last year’s Korean Oaks winner Deep Mind goes around at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(3) TWO TWO WILD THING and (6) DREAM STEALTH ran home 4th and 5th, a considerable margin behind excellent winner Winner’s Man on debut on July 7th. Two Wild Thing stumbled on leaving the gate while Dream Stealth raced wide and green throughout so both had their excuses and both should have come on for that run. On the same day two weeks ago, (8) DAEHO PYEONGJEONG also debuted with a creditable 3rd place at this distance. Jo In-kwen climbs aboard this time which can be to his benefit and he looks nicely in here. There are three first-time starters and among them, (5) BANJIUI GIJEOK looks the most promising first-up. She is a half-sister to a number of winners and the jockey/trainer combination is worth taking note of. She led early in her trial before dropping back and then running through the line well (with Dream Stealth behind her) and a she should go close.

Selections (5) Banjiui Gijeok (3) Two Two Wild Thing (8) Daeho Pyeongjeong (6) Dream Stealth
Next Best 7, 2
Fast Start 2, 3, 5

 

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

Three-year-old Korean-bred gallopers line up in the second event where there is a lack of early speed. (1) BEODEUL BARAM looks to get every chance from the inside gate. The Min Jang-gi trained filly finished third on debut when powering to the line going down less than a length behind Morning Thunder. (3) SUN ALPHA comes off a handy performance last time out when finishing third behind Wind Park. The Thunder Moccasin colt will line up over the same journey and with some improvement looks one of the main chances. (11) ALPHA HEART showed improvement at her second start. The filly is one that has shown a lack of speed out of the gates suggesting Jo In-kwen will need to stay in touch with the leading division to be a winning chance. (10) CRONUS looks next best after finishing behind the place getters last time out over the six furlongs. Kim Young-kwan and Seo Seung-un combine, which is a partnership that can never be ignored.

Selections (1) Beodeul Baram (3) Sun Alpha (11) Alpha Heart (10) Cronus
Next Best 9, 6
Fast Start 2

 

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

Lots of lines have to be drawn through latest performances here if we are to be able to pick anything to win this. (1) GABO TODAY will tempt plenty given the stable and the jockey who gets on him today. The manner of his capitulation last start when looking well placed was concerning but he should have come on for it and in this company is worth another chance. (2) AMAZING GIRL resumes for the first time since February. She had run in a couple of 4th place finishes at 1000M and steps up beyond the minimum trip for the first time having hinted at some promise in a trial earlier this month. (7) NICE ONE and (9) CHOEGANG CUPID are others who have shown something in recent trials that they are yet to show on the racetrack and who have the potential to improve today. (4) HIT JACKPOT may have an extremely unimpressive resume at first glance, but he has actually run the fastest time of any of these at this distance and the addition of You Hyun-myung in the saddle should be a plus.

Selections (1) Gabo Today (4) Hit Jackpot (2) Amazing Girl (7) Nice One
Next Best 9, 5, 6
Fast Start 4, 5, 7, 9

 

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

 

The Korean-bred maidens go over the 1300m in the fourth event, where plenty of these gallopers have been given numerous chances to break through previously. (11) ADELE CLASSIC looks hardest to beat coming off two good performances since resuming late June. The colt clocked a quick time for this class last start, expect him to work forward early under Jo In-kwen. (1) PORRIMA looks the main danger after trying to lead throughout last time out before finishing third behind B.K John. She has shown speed at her first two starts so with the inside draw she is likely to be the one to catch halfway up the straight. (2) DARUI BADA looks a place chance in a field lacking depth outside of the aforementioned runners. She hit the line well last time out, if she can settle closer she can run into the money. (3) HUIMANG SOYEO looks next best in a race that doesn’t inspire.

Selections (11) Adele Classic (1) Porrima (2) Darui Bada (3) Huimang Soyeo
Next Best 5, 9
Fast Start 1, 3, 11

 

Race 5: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies here. Four of these faced each other over this distance on July 17th and it was (5) SECOND WIND who came out the best of them with a front-running 2nd place finish behind Great Good. That was a strong performance and suggests she has a maiden win in her sooner rather than later – it could well be here. (11) ACHIM BIT came home 3rd in that race having led for much of the way. She will have to (more…)

SBS Sports Sprint Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 26)

Arguably the most intriguing race in recent Korean racing history goes to post on Sunday afternoon in front of a spectator-less Seoul Racecourse, but fortunately live on television, in the shape of the Group 3 SBS Sports Sprint. There are 14 races at Seoul from 10:25 to 18:00 as well as 5 at Busan from 12:15 to 15:50. Here are the previews:

KRA Busan Ilbo Do Kki Blade Gaon Champ

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

The two-year-old colts and fillies kick off proceeding where they line up over the short course. (3) HWANGGEUM POWER is one of only two runners that have had a previous run. The Limitless Bid filly finished fourth on debut when settling well back from a wide draw and subsequently running on well. The on-fire Moon Se-young will be legged aboard her this time around and she will jump from a much better draw allowing her to settle closer. (6) HAPPY DAY trialed well and can figure at her first start. The Tiz Wonderful two-year-old clocked 63.6 seconds for the 1000m on a dry track, which reads relatively well for this race. (8) VICTORICA looks next best clocking a slightly slower time in her trial. She is a Colonel John filly who wasn’t fully urged in her trial. (1) STORM ROAD is the other runner that has had a previous start. She also gets a better draw today and can settle closer in the run.

Selections (3) Hwanggeum Power (6) Happy Day (8) Victorica (1) Storm Road
Next Best 2, 7
Fast Start 6, 7

 

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

Twelve three-year-old maidens go around here and it is not a strong race, to put it mildly. Ten of them have raced before but the only one to trouble the placing judges so far is (6) MAKALU POWER, who ran 3rd on what was his second outing on July 11th. It wasn’t a fast time but he won’t need to improve very much at all in order to feature here. We’re going to side with a debut-maker. (3) JANGSAN SASUDAE went through three trials and while it would be wrong to say he caught the eye, he showed improvement over the course of them and hit the line well in the latest of them. The other Korean born foal from his dam has won three from twelve and this s a very soft race to debut in. (11) SIMON STORM ran on reasonably well on debut and may improve. The other debut-maker (4) COLORS ONLY also has to be given a chance in what is the weakest company she will ever face. Her trial was a very slow one all-round so doesn’t offer too many clues but she looked competent enough.

Selections (3) Jangsan Sasudae (6) Makalu Power (4) Colors Only (11) Simon Storm
Next Best 9, 1
Fast Start 4, 7, 9

 

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million 

The Korean-bred maidens will go over the short course in the third event. (8) P.K. DOLPUNG is the on top selection after clocking a quick trial. He resumes for his first run since January where he finished fifth behind Miracle Icheon. He has finished close-up on numerous occasions and is an each way chance. (3) JOY OF KING resumed in good fashion last start when third over the 1000m. The Federalist gelding hit the line in good style, if he can hold a position in the first half of the field he looks a main player. (4) CHEONSANGUI YEOIN debuted in good style over the 1000m when working across from a wide gate, before running on well in the straight. She can find a position with less effort from a good draw and do her best work late. (10) OVER ACHIEVE is second up after finishing midfield behind Gaja Plan earlier this month. She looks capable of running into the minor money.

Selections (8) P.K. Dolpung (3) Joy Of King (4) Cheonsangui Yeoin (10) Over Achieve
Next Best 12, 1
Fast Start 2, 11

 

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

Fillies only in this class 5 affair and all of them are pretty useful and all have a chance to win. Both (3) FORT SEUONE and (9) GEORGE QUEEN come in having won their respective debut races last month. George Queen made all and was the quicker of the pair and while they have an additional furlong to tackle today, she was finishing strongly and could well win again although with plenty of speed on her inside, the wide draw may not be to her favour. Fort Seuone looks suited to this distance and also has strong claims. (2) HANSEN CHOICE returned from the shutdown to win well over 1300M on June 20th, leading all the way around. She will also be challenging for what’s set to be a quite contested lead here. The other last start winner is (6) SOARA YEOJANGGUN who led all the way over 1400M but does perhaps have a bit to find against the speedier types that she faces here. OF the ones with experience at this level, (7) SAEROUN BOBAE and (1) LUISA came home 2nd and 4th when they raced each other in a similar all-filly race over 1300M on June 21st. Both came from behind the pace and Luisa especially looks as though she has scope for improvement.

Selections (9) George Queen (1) Luisa (7) Saeroun Bobae (3) Fort Seuone
Next Best 2, 6
Fast Start  

 

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

There is pace-a-plenty in the fifth event on the card. (9) JEONJEONGSAGEUM showed ability in her first few starts before the racing hiatus. The Tiz Wonderful filly won her last start in January in good style and has since trialed well, clocking 61 seconds flat for the 1000m. Lim Gi-won, who knows the filly well will be aboard her once again. (7) GLOBAL GOLD resumed in good style when winning late last month. He has shown plenty of speed at his last couple of starts and when he has sat on speed, seems to do his best work. His time last start wasn’t the fastest but with some slight improvement he can be considered a winning chance once again. (4) WINNER BLUE is second-up after placing behind Captain Best last time out. He is another on-speed type who has drawn well for his eighth start. Antonio Da Silva sticks with the Old Fashioned gelding which is a positive. (10) WINNER TEMPLAR resumes and gets the services of Moon Se-young first up. The lightly raced four-year-old is yet to break maiden status but has placed on three occasions from four starts. She trialed up fairly last week, the draw looks her biggest obstacle.

Selections (9) Jeonjeongsageum (7) Global Gold (4) Winner Blue (10) Winner Templar
Next Best 1, 11
Fast Start 4, 6, 7, 9, 11

 

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

The Korean-bred three-year-old gallopers face off in the second event where the majority of the field is lightly raced. (4) INDY QUEEN is the on top selection after a good debut five weeks back. The Indie Band filly finished second behind Power Gate when sitting behind the leaders before letting down in good fashion. The 1200m should suit her chances and she has drawn well once again. (11) WISE GIRL has put a couple of good trials together. The Officer filly has been handed a wide draw to overcome on debut. If Iaonnis Polluis can find a position one of the fence she can be considered an each way chance. (8) THALE NOI lines up for her second start after finishing fifth on debut. The Ecton Park filly capitulated last start in the final stages, but should strip fitter for the run. (10) GENERAL ANN went over this distance last time out finishing fourth behind Honor Queen. She will need to improve to be considered a winning chance but is capable of collecting some prizemoney once again.

Selections (4) Indy Queen (11) Wise Girl (8) Thale Noi (10) General Ann
Next Best 2, 12
Fast Start 6, 10, 12

 

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

A field of imported maidens go around here with a big prize on offer and precisely half the field racing for the very first time. Of the experienced ones, (3) SUN BOOM is the only one to have hit the board so far, running 3rd on June 27th over this distance. It wasn’t a hugely impressive time and while he is well drawn to get on pace again, others are favoured today. (1) SPRING KING did little on debut all the way last December but having had a few months off, looked very sharp in a trial at the beginning of this month and comes straight into contention. (10) CHANGSEONG HIT and (12) JANGSAN GOLD finished 5th and 6th when they raced each other over 1200M on June 21st. Both should improve here with Jangsan Gold perhaps having the greater potential. Of the first time starters, (5) MIGHTY CHIP and (9) MUNHAK MOON are the standouts. Both won their trials in competitive times and both should be going close first up here.

Selections (1) Spring King (5) Mighty Chip (12) Jangsan Gold (9) Munhak Moon
Next Best 10, 2
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 9

 

Busan Race 3: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(7) WORLD TODAY is up in class and distance following a smart win over a mile at class 4 on July 5th. He already has a runner-up finish to his name over 1800M and is likely to be on pace here with solid claims to win again. (2) THE SABER is an intriguing entry. The Trappe Shot colt has just the three races behind him and steps up in class having won over 1300M in a fast time on June 26th. He ran on strongly that day though so while it is a big step up in distance, he may well be equal to it. (5) CURLIN FANTASY comes in having run a very good 2nd place behind the progressive Samseong Dokki. He is yet to win in nineteen attempts but that was a very good showing and he can place again. A number of the others failed to catch the eye on resumption over 1400M on June 21st. They will of course have all needed that race and (9) MALIBU BYEOL is perhaps the most likely to progress.

Selections (7) World Today (2) The Saber (5) Curlin Fantasy (9) Malibu Byeol
Next Best 8, 3
Fast Start 7, 9

 

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

The Korean Class 4 gallopers line up in the seventh over 1300m. (2) RAON HANNIBAL is the on top selection based on what she did last preparation. She was somewhat disappointing when first-up five weeks back but she should improve off that run, along with her connections hopefully getting a bit more work into her. She’s a winner of three races from ten starts, including one in this grade. (3) BIG CLASSIC looks another one with some more-than-average ability. The lightly raced four-year-old has had five starts yielding two wins and two minor placings. She has led at her past three starts so from barrier three we anticipate she will take up the running and prove hard to run down. (12) THANK YOU MOTHER lines up for her second-up run after finishing second when running on strongly last start. She has been dealt the carpark draw and will need some luck to find a position early. (5) CHEONNYEONUI BARAM was a winner when resuming and lines up in a tougher event. He carries just 52.5kg and with gate five looks one that can run into the minor money.

Selections (2) Raon Hannibal (3) Big Classic (12) Thank You Mother (5) Cheonnyeonui Baram
Next Best 4, 8
Fast Start 3, 4, 6, 9

 

Busan Race 4: Class 2 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

An even assembly of runners line up in the fourth where they will go over the six furlongs. (4) FIRST CHANGER is the on top selection after trialing up in great fashion on two occasions. Whilst the trials were quite some time ago, it shows us that the Two Step Salsa colt appears to be back to his best. He has won four races from ten starts and whilst his past couple of race starts have been disappointing, he looks forward enough to win this event. (6) BANJIUI YOJEONG was disappointing when resuming, in fact it was the first time the four-year-old has not collected a cheque when going to the races. It was a rather handy race he lined up in last start and this looks a much easier assignment. Seo Seung-un jumping aboard also gives us some confidence. (10) HAWK KING is a very capable racehorse on his day. He trialed up in good fashion back in April and lines up for his new preparation in this event. He has performed well over the six furlongs previously. (11) WONDERUL LION is another first-up runner. She has had the one start in Class 2 company where she finished midfield behind Seongsan Simon. With just the 51.5kg on her back she should be able to work forward as per normal and be there at the business end.

Selections (4) First Changer (6) Banjiui Yojeong (10) Hawk King (11) Wonderful Lion
Next Best 12, 1
Fast Start 1, 2, 6, 11

 

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(1) MONEY ZIF was a class and distance winner on June 28th, coming from off the pace to score in a creditable time. He went up in the ratings because of that but an apprentice jockey takes a couple of kilograms off and he remains competitive here. A surprising winner at this level was (4) FIORE over 1700M on July 4th. It was a front-running performance but others are favoured today. Three of these raced each other at class and distance on June 21st. (2) HWANGGEUM HAE finished the best of them in 4th place behind Looking Good. He’s drawn well to get to the front here and looks a big danger. (6) SUPER ECTON came from well back to run home a strong 5th in that race. He has won at this distance already and will likely once more go back early and look to pass plenty late on. (5) JACOB went into the shutdown having run a solid class and distance 3rd. He hasn’t trialed since April and comes in here as the wildcard.

Selections (2) Hwanggeum Hae (6) Super Ecton (1) Money Zif (5) Jacob
Next Best 3, 7
Fast Start 2, 9

 

Busan Race 5: Class 1 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 110 Million

(6) BAENGMUNBAEKDAP has the fastest time of any of these at the distance although that came when he was chasing home Blue Chipper, who was in the process of smashing the track record. He ran 2nd to the progressive Ssonsal when giving away 5kg over 1400M two weeks ago and it may be that the weight plays a role again. If it does, then (8) PRO CONSUL could be the one to take advantage. The lightly-raced four-year-old was sensational when beating a decent class 1 field over this distance on June 26th and looks well set for another score here. (2) KING OF GLORY ran well for 3rd in the Busan Ilbo Cup last month over 1200M but eschews the second leg of the Sprint Series in Seoul this afternoon to take his chance here. (3) DIVIDE WIND ran 8th in that race and the stablemate of Baengmunbaekdap can get closer today.

Selections (8) Pro Consul (6) Baengmunbaekdap (2) King Of Glory (3) Divide Wind
Next Best 1
Fast Start 5, 8

 

Seoul Race 9: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The Class 5 runners go over the two turns in the ninth event on the card. (7) CHOEGANG SINGI is yet to break through for his first win but has shown an appreciation for the middle distances. He clocked a good time when resuming over the two turns, finishing fourth behind Cheonnyeonui Godo. The Chapel Royal gelding should take improvement from the first-up run. (3) GLOBAL WANGJA has been promoted to Class 5 company after finishing second behind Coin Blade when first-up. It’s a considerable step up to the 1700m which is unchartered territory for the Colors Flying gelding, but he has been settling off speed running on strongly. (9) GAZUA is another that has shown some good performances over the two turns. He lacks early speed so look for him closing late. (1) GAROSUGIL is next best and capable of running into the money, where he goes over the two turns for the first time.

Selections (7) Choegang Singi (3) Global Wangja (9) Gazua (1) Garosugil
Next Best 4, 2
Fast Start 7, 8

 

Seoul Race 10: Class Open (1200M) SBS Sports Sprint (KOR G3) / Weight for Age / KRW 350 Million

  1. GAON CHAMP – Last year’s winner is so consistent and having drawn gate 1 shouldn’t have to go around a horse. Narrowly beaten by Do Kki Blade in Busan, he has every chance of overturning that form.
  2. SSONSAL – The only challenger from Busan and a super class 1 winner over 1400M earlier this month. The absolute elite class may find him out though.
  3. SPRING BACK – Good sprinter. Finished behind Morfhis last start and 4th to Blue Chipper in last year’s Korea Sprint. Perhaps has a bit to find.
  4. MUNHAK PRINCESS – First start since January 2019 and while trials have been consistently fast, she’s very much been thrown in the deep end here.
  5. MUNHAK WINNER – Hasn’t won beyond Class 2 and well back in the Busan Ilbo. Plenty to find here.
  6. DO KKI BLADE – The logical favourite after that Busan Ilbo win. He’s drawn a much better gate this time so it should be easier for him to be on pace and he’s a big chance.
  7. SIMJANGUI GODONG – Didn’t get much luck in Busan but beat both Do Kki Blade and Gaon Champ in January. Not impossible.
  8. MEDICI GLORY – Lightly raced four-year-old returned for the first time in over a year to run 5th behind Morfhis a month ago. Talented but this is tough.
  9. EAST JET – Class 3 winner over this distance in June but this is massive step up in competition.
  10. EOMA EOMA – The wildcard faces his first test. Shown brilliance in his three wins from three starts and drops in weight here. The question is can he adapt to the intensity of this class – or can he in fact bring his own and blow them away?
  11. GLOBAL CAPTAIN – Super on his day. Ran uncontrollably wide on his latest start in February and then had a hard time showing enough manners to re-qualify. Unpredictable so hard to be confident first-up.
  12. MORFHIS – Very good class 1 horse. Wide draw shouldn’t be too much of a problem as he can just follow the leaders. Whether he has enough explosive pace to blow past them is another matter. Probably not.

 

Verdict: The Korea Sprint winner will almost certainly emerge from this race. (10) EOMA EOMA could be something special but going on the knowns, rather than the unknowns, (1) GAON CHAMP and (6) DO KKI BLADE are the ones to beat.

Selections (1) Gaon Champ (6) Do Kki Blade (10) Eoma Eoma (7) Simjangui Godong
Next Best 11, 3
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 6, 10, 11

 

Seoul Race 11: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Another event over the two turns in the eleventh. (11) HIDDEN SOCKS resumes over the 1700m coming off a superb trial. He ran into some handy types at his first four starts including Blue Chiton and also Determination on debut. Moon Se-young will partner the chestnut as he resumes, based on this being his easiest assignment to date he looks the one to beat. (3) ECHO BILL finished off strong when resuming to finish third behind Shu Leub. With a good draw jockey Johan Victoire may be able to get the Daredevil colt to settle closer to the speed. He is yet to win but looks as if he is building to one shortly. (10) HWANGGEUM LUCKY is another import that is yet to breakthrough. He is first up since February and gave followers some confidence in a recent trial when winning his heat, it was a good time considering the short course is not a strength of his. (12) BIG TRIPLE is a last start winner over this distance, he broke through at start six. He settled off speed last time out before finishing off well. He will have to carry 57kg from the outside gate this time around.

Selections (11) Hidden Socks (3) Echo Bill (10) Hwanggeum Lucky (12) Big Triple
Next Best 5, 6
Fast Start 5, 6, 11

 

Seoul Race 12: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(8) BRIGADIER GENERAL ran out a good winner at class and distance on June 27th, scoring by four-lengths. The handicapper certainly noticed him and he carries a whopping additional 5.5kg today. That may prove too much for him to repeat but he should be close. (2) MR. TURNER was the horse four-lengths in arrears in 2nd place that day. The turnaround in weights today should mean he gets closer and could win. He will go back early and finish strong. (9) FLASH JET and (1) EMORY SOCKS came home 4th and 5th respectively when they raced one another at class and distance on June 20th. Both came from well back in the field to run on very well and both look firmly in the hunt today. The wildcard is (3) EVER THE CHAMP. He was a battling winner at this class over 1700M in back in January taking the late developer’s record to three wins from his latest four. He hasn’t raced since and performed only fairly in a May trial. Kim Young-geun stays aboard though and he must be considered. In a race with absolutely nothing that likes to lead, he may get to the front very easily and dictate his own pace.

Selections (9) Flash Jet (8) Brigadier General (2) Mr. Turner (3) Ever The Champ
Next Best 1, 4
Fast Start 3

 

Seoul Race 13: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

They will go like the clappers in the thirteenth event with over half the field considered on-speed runners. (9) MY HAWK goes on top after finishing second behind the handy East Jet when resuming. He is a winner of four races from fourteen starts with a handful of minor placings. He settled midfield last start suggesting Ham Wan-sik can take a sit behind the leaders if need be. (1) BEYOND OVER clocked an impressive time for the 1400m last time out when first-up. With another handy draw she can sit on the coattails of the leaders before reeling off a fast last 400m in the event. (6) DADDY GLORY will make her first appearance since November last year. She trialed up in good fashion last week when clocking 60.6 for the 1000m, winning her heat. She has won three and finished in the top four on nine occasions from eleven starts. (12) RUNNING BOX gets a horror draw but on her day is capable of winning a race like this. She finished third behind East Jet last start where they clocked a good time. Moon Se-young taking over is a big lead for punters.

Selections (9) My Hawk (1) Beyond Over (6) Daddy Glory (12) Running Box
Next Best 10, 4
Fast Start 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11

 

Seoul Race 14: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

Very tricky race to conclude the card. (11) TOP BRAIN is an established class 2 competitor and while he is inconsistent, he looked very well in a trial in May and can go close here. A couple of starts back, he beat the very consistent (7) CHOEGANG GOSU. The five-year-old doesn’t win out of turn but can be relied upon to run well and can add to his impressive placing record here. (6) TAP FASHIONED ran well for 3rd behind Gaenari Song over 1200M a month ago and stretching out to 1400M may be to his benefit here. (12) RED BLADE struggled when beaten over 1900M by (8) FLYING FORD among others last month. He should have come on for that run though and the drop back in trip can suit. (9) BANYA DONGHAENG came from well back to run 4th at class and distance on June 27th and he can match or better that today. (5) DAEGUN JEPAE was lame last time so put a line through that. At his best he is a real contender and arguably the one to beat in a wide open race.

Selections (5) Daegun Jepae (11) Top Brain (7) Choegang Gosu (6) Tap Fashioned
Next Best 12, 2, 1, 8
Fast Start 1, 2, 10

 

 

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 25)

It’s spectator-less again on Saturday at Seoul where there is a 15-race card from 10.45 to 18.00. Here are the previews:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A maiden for the Korean-bred gallopers will begin another monster fifteen race card at Seoul. Debutant (2) SARYEONI QUEEN looks a filly that is ready to strike early on after handing in a nice trial a few months back. The Divine Park filly finished third in her heat when clocking a good time when compared to her counterparts here. (11) GANGHAN YEOJEONSA has had the five starts yielding just the one minor placing. She trialed up in reasonable fashion and this will be one of the easiest assignments she has lined up in during her short career. (12) SAENAMUI BYEOL debuted in February just before the racing hiatus. The Hansen colt was well beaten after showing plenty of early speed. He trialed up in good fashion in May, suggesting he can figure upon resuming. (3) KAIZEN SILVER looks next best in a field where it is hard to make a case for plenty.

Selections (2) Saryeoni Queen (11) Ganghan Yeojeonsa (12) Saenamui Byeol (3) Kaizen Silver
Next Best 9, 6
Fast Start 1, 4, 11, 12

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Juvenile maidens go around here with just three of the twelve having raced before, all three of them in the same race and none of them posting an especially impressive time. The best of them was (2) SOARA BABA, who finished 4th despite stopping the clock in a slower time than she did when trialing. That does though suggest she is capable of better and can accordingly improve here. That guides us towards the first-timers of whom (10) RAON DIA looks the pick. She’s the third foal out of her Japanese-bred dam Tomiken Spring and both older half-siblings have been winners with Raon Tough Man, one year older, a winner of three from four. Her trial was good and while she has drawn wide she should be able to get on pace and can win this. (8) GEOLJAK MAN also showed some ability in trials with a front-running 2nd in a time that wasn’t special, but certainly more than holds its own in this company. (3) ENERGIZER was slow in his trial but can’t be faulted as he was first across the line having led all the way. The jockey booking is nothing if not eye-catching and he will accordingly be expected to go well first up.

Selections (10) Raon Dia (3) Energizer (8) Geoljak Man (2) Soara Baba
Next Best 6, 12
Fast Start 3, 4, 8, 10

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

The Korean-bred three-year-old runners line up in the third where there is plenty of early speed engaged. (8) CHOEGO CAMP lines up for her second start after debuting mid-June. She took up to early running in her first start before being passed by a couple eventually finishing third. She clocked a reasonable time on a dry track which will see her be competitive here in a race with many chances. (7) MIR SKY lines up for her fifth start and resumed in good style earlier this month. The filly sat on speed at her first-up run and was gallant in defeat finishing second behind Fire Heart. (11) GLOBAL SUN has had two starts since we resumed racing finishing 8th when resuming and then 4th earlier this month. The Hansen filly will need some luck to overcome an awkward draw, but if she can find a position just off the speed she is every chance of running into the money. (2) ALCHAN NURI looks next best after finishing fifth over the 1300m last start. He is drawn to kick up and hold a prominent position. There will need to be some improvement however to be considered a winning chance.

Selections (8) Choego Camp (7) Mir Sky (11) Global Sun (2) Alchan Nuri
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 1, 2, 7, 8 ,11

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies here with all but one of the twelve having raced before. Three of them debuted together over 1000M on June 20th with (4) CAREER HIGH coming off by far the best of them in 3rd place. She ran on well from quite a way back and with an additional furlong to get stuck into today, she could well be hard to beat. (11) UNOECHANGCHEON also finished in 3rd place on debut all the way back in October last year. She trialed just last week and can be a danger first-up today. (12) GREEN BOLT debuted creditably in 4th place over 1300M on June 28th. She only really started running in the closing stages so hopefully benefitted from that run and can be a bit sharper today. As for the rest, (2) WIND HILL is another with a 3rd place to his name. He’s not raced since February but went through a trial in May and looked well.

Selections (4) Career High (12) Green Bolt (11) Unoechangcheon (2) Wind Hill
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 2, 7, 9

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

The fifth on the card has limited chances engaged with punters being able to put a line through many. (6) GEUMSONG ACE resumed in good style mid-June when settling just of speed and finishing off well to place behind Blue K. That particular race looks one of the stronger form lines coming into this race. Drawn barrier six, newly fully fledged jockey Moon Sung-hyeok can position her just off speed and improve just before the straight. (4) OKCHUMA debuts in the event and comes into the race after clocking a relatively good time in a trial. The Officer colt has drawn well for his debut. (7) RAON BIG MAN is yet to finish better than sixth in his three-start career to date. The Musket Man colt finished midfield last time out behind The Beast, with the time being fair for this grade. (10) NEUL CHAOREUM looks next best in a race where the majority of runners lack favourable form.

Selections (6) Geumseong Ace (4) Okchuma (7) Raon Big Man (10) Neul Chaoreum
Next Best 2, 9
Fast Start 6, 10

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

More maidens here and quite a puzzle it is to solve too. (1) BOBBY BLADE has run twice so far and the filly has shown promise. She ran 4th over 1300M on June 27th, finishing well and she won’t need to improve much if she is to win this. Only three of the twelve have ever

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 24)

So spectators won’t be allowed into the racecourses this week after all. A limited number of race fans were set to be admitted from Friday, however, officials have now ordered the KRA to put that on hold indefinitely. That means racing continues – for now – behind closed doors and with no local betting. The feature race this weekend is the SBS Sports Sprint at Seoul on Sunday, but the action gets underway with a 15-race card at Busan on Friday. Here are the previews:

Start

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Quite a tasty little juvenile maiden to kick things off. (1) DOCTOR FASHION gets the nod, having run 2nd on debut behind Heat Yegam on June 26th. Though no match for the winner, he ran on strong in a very creditable time and won’t need to have improved too much to win here. (6) HUIMANGUI SORY ran on strong for 3rd in that same race. He has four-lengths to make up on Doctor Fashion but the addition of Djordje Perovic will do his chances no harm at all. (4) YEONGGWANGUICHUKJE did nothing wrong on debut either. His was a slower time but it was on a slower track and he has the potential to build on the 3rd place he registered. There are also a couple of very interesting first-time starters. All three half-siblings of (2) GOOD SOCKS who have made the track have been winners and the Concord Point filly almost certainly will be too. She trialed well, taking it easy early and then responding when asked.

Selections (1) Doctor Fashion (2) Good Socks (6) Huimangui Sory (4) Yeonggwanguichukje
Next Best 8, 7, 5
Fast Start 1

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

The two-year-old colts and fillies will face the starter in the second over the short course. (8) YEONGSEONGTEUKGEUP debuts in this event and comes off an impressive trial. The Old Fashioned colt has a nice action covering the ground in good fashion. He responded nicely to the asking of Jung Do-yun in the trial when clocking a good time. (3) MY STAR debuted three weeks back when finishing second behind Kkotgwa Gureum. The filly goes over the 1000m once again and is drawn to get an ideal run. (6) SORI TAEPUNG handed in a solid performance on debut when midfield behind Heat Yegam. Expect the Hansen colt to improve at his second start. (7) MIX BLADE lines up for his debut performance and looks capable of running into the money. The colt clocked a reasonable time for his trial on a dry track.

Selections (8) Yeongseongteukgeup (3) My Star (6) Sori Taepung (7) Mix Blade
Next Best 1, 2
Fast Start 8, 6

 

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

Maidens once more but this time it’s for the three-year-olds. (6) DALLAE raced three times prior to the shutdown, never finishing worse than 4th and recording a couple of useful times over 1000M along the way. For her return, she tackles 1200M for the first time having trialed up promisingly earlier this month. Seo Seung-un knows the filly well and will likely aim to take her to the front as soon as possible. (11) DYNAMIC RUSH looks to be one of those for whom the long break did some good. The Colors Flying colt returned to action on July 3rd recording his best finish to date when 3rd over this distance. He ran on well and can build on that today. There are four first-timer starters and a couple of them look promising. (9) NUN KKOT YEWANG finished 5th in both of her pre-shutdown appearances, one of them behind Dallae, and can improve in this company. (5) SAEACHUMUI HAETSAL was a front-running trial winner all the way back in March. She’s not been seen since but if she can bring anything resembling that performance to the track, she will go well here. (12) INVISIBLE MAN brings Djordje Perovic together with Bart Rice and a colt who has been solid if unspectacular in trials but who, in a weak race, can make an impression first up.

Selections (6) Dallae (11) Dynamic Rush (5) Saeachimui Haetsal (12) Invisible Man
Next Best 9, 1
Fast Start 5, 6, 9

 

Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

An even assembly of three-year-old runners line up in the fourth event over 1400m. (2) ECHO GOOD lines up for her third start after significant improvement at her most recent start. The filly finished second when hitting the line strong over the 1200m. The extra furlong should assist her chances. (7) SKY WIN comes out of the same race where the colt finished on the heels of the placegetters. He lacks early speed but is capable of reeling off a fast sectional. With a well time run he should be considered an each way chance. (10) TOP OF THE GIRL drops back from the mile after finishing fourth behind Geuma Kairos last time out. She sat on speed last start before struggling to complete the mile strongly. There is not a lot of speed engaged so she can work forward once again is rider Seo Seung-un wishes to do so. (4) TAPIT WONDERFUL ran on strong last time out to finish second behind Raon Sky Man. The margin was four lengths and the time slow for a firm track, suggesting improvement will be needed to be a winning chance.

Selections (2) Echo Good (7) Sky Win (10) Top Of The Girl (4) Tapit Wonderful
Next Best 1, 5
Fast Start 5, 10

 

Race 5: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(1) SUSO TANK has run 4th and 5th in two outings so far at 1200M and 1400M respectively, finishing strongly on both occasions. She has looked to be wanting further and she gets a chance to prove it here. She’s from the track’s top stable and is sure to be well-backed. Similarly, (3) ACE JACKPOT ran on strong for 4th place from well back over 1300M three weeks ago. She steps up to the mile for the first time and it may well suit. (4) CHEONNYEONUIGUREUM has raced at this distance before including a good 4th place finish on June 26th. She runs best on pace and is well drawn to get forward early under Franco Da Silva and looks to have an excellent chance here. (11) PILSEUNG IJI is another one who steps up in trip, in his case following back to back 3rd place finishes over 1400M, the latest of them just two weeks ago. Seo Seung-un remains aboard and she should go close. (7) BAEDARI CAPER has the fastest time of any of these that have raced at the distance before and can aim for some minor money.

Selections (4) Cheonnyeonuigureum (1) Suso Tank (3) Ace Jackpot (11) Pilseung Iji
Next Best 7, 9, 6
Fast Start 4, 12

 

Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

There are plenty of chances engaged in the sixth where a field of eleven will go over the six furlongs. (5) GOOD THUNDER brings some good form into the race after finishing third behind Perfect Jewang when resuming. The Thunder Moccasin colt has drawn better in this event suggesting he can settle closer before he produces a very nice turn of foot as shown last start.  The consistent (6) DOCTOR GREY has finished second at three of his five starts and finished in the top five at the other appearances. The colt resumed in good style when finishing second behind Banjiui Magic beaten three lengths. He can find a position in the leading quartet before (more…)

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

Group racing returns to Seoul on Sunday when Cheongdam Dokki heads the field in the G3 YTN Cup. Before that, there is a massive 15-race card in the capital on Saturday running from 10:45 to 18:00. Unfortunately, it will be held behind closed doors. Here are the previews:

20200711_100540.jpg

Seoul Racecourse will be empty again this weekend

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

The two-year-old gallopers kick things off on another massive fifteen race card, which is becoming the new normal whilst we make up for being on break for four months. (8) JEDI looks as if she can get us off to a good start after a nice trial performance mid-June. The Cowboy Cal filly will have the services of Moon Se-young, who nursed her in a soft trial working to the line well when finishing second. (6) GREEN POKJU is another that trialed well and should be considered a winning chance. The Old Fashioned filly clocked a good time when working to the line under her own steam, it wasn’t until the last half-furlong that Kim Jeon-jun pushed her along. (11) COBRA BALL looks next best after trialing fairly clocking 63.5 seconds for the 1000m. The Forest Camp colt has an awkward draw for Park Tae-jong to overcome. (3) HEUNG DREAM lines up for his second start after being well beaten on debut. If there is some improvement on top of the debut he can run into the money.

Selections (8) Jedi (6) Green Pokju (11) Cobra Ball (3) Heung Dream
Next Best 1, 2
Fast Start 4, 6, 8

 

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

(2) MAX DAERO improved across three starts prior to the shutdown culminating in a 3rd place at this distance in February when he led for much of the way. While a June trial was no better than average, he can get to the front again here and can win. (7) WONDERFUL MAGIC didn’t do too much wrong in two efforts over 1000M around the turn of the year, the best of them finishing in 4th. He trialed up with some very good horses during the hiatus and is likely to challenge Max Daero for the early lead here. (12) RIDE MAN debuted at this distance three weeks ago finishing 4th in a slowly run race on a wet track. He should have come on for that run and looks set to go closer today. (9) BARBELL looked pretty ordinary when 7th over 1300M on June 27th but went back to trial last week and put in the kind of time that should bring him into contention here. (5) CHALLENGE SOCKS can have a line drawn through his debut on June 20th as he was forced very wide around the turn by another runner taking him out of contention. (8) HELLO GEUMSEONG has run consistent times in a series of trials and is another one who could find some minor money.

Selections (2) Max Daero (7) Wonderful Magic (12) Ride Man (5) Challenge Socks
Next Best 8, 9
Fast Start 2, 7, 8

 

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

The Korean-bred three-year-old gallopers line up in the third where the looks a special engaged. (8) NEVER WALK ALONE comes off a last start second behind Yaho Golden Cat when resuming for this preparation. Moon Se-young gets the plum ride on the Warrior’s Reward colt who has placed twice from four starts. The galloper is not the fastest away, suggesting rider Moon will position off speed and allow him to improve from the top of the Seoul straight. (10) NONGBON RAK is also second up after finishing fifth last start behind J.S. Power. The filly tried to lead throughout but started to shorten stride halfway up the straight. She should be fitter for the run. (5) GOLDEN BADGE lines up for her second start after passing a few in the straight on debut to finish midfield. Kim Yong-geun will be legged aboard on Sunday, with some improvement she is capable of running into the money. (3) MENI SPURT is another having her second start, with some improvement she is a top four chance.

Selections (8) Never Walk Alone (10) Nongbon Rak (5) Golden Badge (3) Meni Spurt
Next Best 7, 6
Fast Start 7, 10

 

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

While he didn’t show much prior to the long break, (9) CLEAN HEART appeared to return much improved on June 20th when he ran on strong for 2nd in a competitive time at this distance and that run should stand him in good stead here. Stepping up to the trip for the first time is (12) BANGJU. He went into the break with a 3rd place over 1000M before putting in a front-running 2nd at 1200M on resumption last month. The wide draw does him no favours but he looks a progressive type who has a win in him sooner rather than later and it could be here. (10) GANA PARK ran 3rd behind Bangju in that 1200M affair last month. That was her debut and it warrants plenty of optimism. She came from off the pace and the additional furlong today can benefit her. Another tackling the distance for the first time is (2) WANGINHAENGCHA. He registered a 3rd and a 2nd at 1000M and 1200M early this year and resumes today having looked sharp in a late June trial. He can use the inside draw to steal a march on the other fancies.

Selections (12) Bangju (2) Wanginhaengcha (10) Gana Park (9) Clean Heart
Next Best 4
Fast Start 2, 8, 12

 

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

The fillies go over the 1300m in the fifth where there appears to be a host of chances. (4) DANGDAE ROYAL returned in good style last start when finishing second behind Magic Plan. The lightly raced four-year-old clocked a reasonable time for this grade, putting her in good stead for a good performance over 1300m. She has drawn ideally to sit in the first three and finish off strong as per last start. (8) HAPPY MONTH looks an each way chance after finishing third behind Top Seed last time out. Her time was not the quickest but with some improvement she can be there at the business end. The last run of (10) CHEONJI YEOGEOL was back in February where she finished fourth behind Luisa. She trialed up in good fashion in May and a forward performance would not surprise. (6) YULONG STAR looks next best after finishing fifth behind Speed Go back in January. She enters unchartered territory being engaged over the 1300m for the first time, but she trialed up fairly so include her in your wider selections.

Selections (4) Dangdae Royal (8) Happy Month (10) Cheonji Yeogeol (6) Yulong Star
Next Best 3, 9
Fast Start 3, 4, 10

 

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

n four starts so far, (6) ILBO DEUNGCHEON has finished no worse than 5th with his best being a runner-up finish over 1200M in a good time in February. He ran 4th on his first try at this distance on June 21st and with Moon Se Young climbing aboard today there is plenty to like about the spot he finds himself in here. He can settle just behind the early speed and has solid claims. (7) TRUE warrants firm consideration having returned from the break to put in a career-best effort of 4th. It came at this distance and he had three others who go here well back behind him. He came from off the pace that day and the addition of Lee Hyeon-jong in the saddle is certainly no negative either. Among those who have raced at this distance in the past, (1) HONEY BUTTER BOBBY has the fastest time to her name. She did that in February when 3rd on a wet track and races today for (more…)

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

The “Balkan Wolf” has returned to Korea. Djordje Perovic, begins his second stint riding in Korea at Busan on Friday where the former Seoul Champion Jockey has four rides on the 15-race card which runs from 11:30 to 18:00. The meeting will be held behind closed doors.

Perovic

Perovic is back – this time at Busan

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Juvenile maidens kick the weekend’s action off with four of the twelve having raced once before. The race sees a return to Korea for jockey Djordje Perovic who had a successful few years in Seoul and it’s not impossible he could start with a winner. (5) BAEK SEOL QUEEN is one of those with previous experience having run 4th on debut at this distance on July 3rd. She was well back behind the winner but should have come on for that and can improve. Putting in a similar debut a couple of weeks earlier was (2) YEONGWON POWER, who came from off the pace to also run 4th at the same distance. There are loads of chances among the newcomers, many of whom trialed up very similarly. (12) WINNER’S MAN is the first foal from a dam who won six times in Korea and was nicely bred herself. He trialed well albeit on a sloppy track and looks nicely in first-up. (9) BAEK PUNG and (7) TWO TWO WILD THING both showed a bit of speed while (10) B. K. LOOKS also showed some promise.

Selections (5) Baek Seol Queen (12) Winner’s Man (7) Two Two Wild Thing (2) Yeongwon Power
Next Best 9, 6, 10
Fast Start 3, 9, 10

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

More juvenile maidens with again four of them having raced once each before and the remaining eight making their debuts. (8) TOP MATE put in a good shift on debut on June 19th, running on for 2nd behind good winner Happy Witch. It was a decent performance in a useful time, and he looks the one to beat here. Experience should also be beneficial for (4) WORLD CHEONSA, who ran 3rd in that very same race. She showed at the front early and is likely to do the same again from a nice draw. Seo Seung-un climbs aboard in what is another plus. The first-timers didn’t exactly pull up trees in their respective trials but there were positive signs from the likes of (3) LUCAS SUN and (9) CENTUM THOR.

Selections (8) Top Mate (4) World Cheonsa (9) Centum Thor (3) Lucas Sun
Next Best 10, 6
Fast Start 3, 4, 10, 11

 

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

Ten three-year-old maidens go here, seven of them fillies. It’s a colt who may be the pick though with (2) GABO TODAY resuming for the first time since December. He ran well in that race before the layoff, his second career start, ending up 3rd of 12 over 1000M running on strong. He went through a trial just last Saturday, posting a fast time and he has every chance of a first-up win today. (10) QUEEN VRONSKY showed promise when 3rd on debut at this distance on June 10th, coming from off the pace and running on well. The wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and she’s a chance here. (6) TOP LUCKY weakened late on over 1300M three weeks ago having led for much of the way and may appreciate the slight drop back in trip today. She’s well drawn to get to the front once more. (1) WONDERFUL SMARTY showed little in four starts before the shutdown but has trialed up well since and can improve today. Similarly, (7) GEUMA GOOD POINT has raced just the once and can aim for a fresh start here having shown some promise in trials.

Selections (2) Gabo Today (10) Queen Vronsky (6) Top Lucky (7) Geuma Good Point
Next Best 1, 4
Fast Start 5, 6,

 

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

After winning a trial, (3) GREAT GOOD ran 2nd on debut behind a horse who ran in a ridiculously fast time for the 1000M, Smart Value. Great Good herself ran well too and she won’t have to improve much on that, if at all, to win here. The extra furlong should only be in her favour. (11) SEUNGNI QUEEN is the only other one in the race who has troubled the scorers so far. That was a 2nd place on what was her latest start in February and while she didn’t catch the eye when trialing in June, she may have enough about her to challenge for a place again. (6) ACHIM BIT debuted reasonably well in 6th place behind Great Good three weeks ago and can be in the frame here. Likewise, (10) SECOND WIND didn’t do too much wrong on her debut either and has a platform to build on today. (9) CRONUS too is sure to have his backers to improve given the trainer/jockey combination.

Selections (3) Great Good (10) Second Wind (11) Seungni Queen (6) Achim Bit
Next Best 9
Fast Start 6, 10

 

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

More three-year-old maidens, none of whom have shown very much in their respective outings to date. (5) DAESEUNG E ran creditably enough for 4th place on debut at this distance on June 26th. The time wasn’t fast but it’s a solid foundation to build on and in this limited company, she can get closer. (3) OMEGA GIRL was similarly slow when 4th at 1200M four weeks ago having briefly touched 2nd place in the home straight. That experience should be beneficial and there can be improvement. (9) SUN ALPHA never got going on debut and finished well back behind a very good winner. He had previously shown a decent turn of foot in trials so we’ll draw a line through that debut and give him another chance today. Similarly, (7) WIND PARK weakened on debut behind Daeseung E but had previously won a trial and shouldn’t be written off just yet. In a race with very little in the way of early speed, she may well get to the front.

Selections (5) Daeseung E (9) Sun Alpha (7) Wind Park (3) Omega Girl
Next Best 8, 4
Fast Start 7

 

Race 6: Class 6 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 25 Million

The speed map in the sixth looks very limited with the majority of the field flat-footed out of the gates. (4) JANGSAN PRIDE goes on top based on a good trial during the hiatus. He has had the two starts with eighth his best performance to date. The two races he lined up in were 2yo races where there were some handy types. This is a weak race and if he is going to show us something, it will be in this event. (2) CAPSTONE is another yet to show much with the filly’s best (more…)

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

It’s International Exchange race this weekend but naturally this year, it’s in name only. Nevertheless, there are some extremely interesting match-ups on the cards at both Seoul and Busan. In the capital, Mark Story puts his unbeaten record on the line in the Tokyo City Keiba Trophe, while top filly Dia Road heads the lineup in the Turkey Jockey Club Trophy. Down at Busan, in addition to the Exchange races, there is also the new “Luna Stakes”, which is the primary Korean Oaks trial. There are 13 races at Seoul from 10:25 to 18:00 and 5 at Busan from 12:20 to 15:55. Both meetings are behind closed doors:

Dia Road Jeju Governor's Cup

Dia Road will line up in the TJK Trophy at Seoul

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The fillies kick off the thirteen-event race card where there looks a standout engaged in the event. (11) GOOD VOW handed in a good performance on debut when finishing second behind George Queen. The Private Vow filly has gate speed which will help her overcome the outside draw, with the other runners engaged failing to show early dash at their previous outings. If she can get on speed early she will take some running down. (2) BLACK SILVER looks next best coming off some reasonable performances over the 1000m before the hiatus. The Tout filly trialed poorly but we will include her based on her efforts prior to the break. (5) RAON SPECIAL has had just the one start when finishing tenth. Whilst well beaten at her first start she clocked a reasonable time that should see her be competitive in this event, which is considered weaker. (1) BIANCA is the only other likely runner to sit on speed, but she appeared underdone last time out when failing to run the 1300m out. She will appreciate the drop back to the 1000m and should be fitter for the run.

Selections (11) Good Vow (2) Black Silver (5) Raon Special (1) Bianca
Next Best 6, 3
Fast Start 1, 11

 

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Eight previously unraced two-year-olds go around here. Based on trials, there is just the one standout in the shape of (5) GEUMBIT YEOJEONSA. The Peace Rules filly put in a front-running performance in her heat ultimately ending up in 2nd place in a creditable time on a dry track. If she hits the front here – and she’s well drawn to do so – she can lead all the way. There are a couple of well-bred ones in. (6) ALL HEART is half-sister to Heuk Jeonsa, a winner of seven of twelve starts so far. It did take Heuk Jeonsa a couple of races to figure things out though and based on All Heart’s trial, it might be the same for her. (4) SAENAE HWANGJE is out of a dam who won plenty in Korea and is half to Simon Queen who also knows where the finish line is. He trialed a little more promisingly. (8) JAY HAWK’s dam too was a good performer in Korea. He went through two trials, the latter of which saw him improve significantly and he can be a danger although it’s likely he will need further than this. (2) YEONGUNG DAEMA and (3) SUPER CHAMPION others who can go well first-up.

Selections (5) Geumbit Yeojeonsa (4) Saenae Hwangje (8) Jay Hawk (3) Super Champion
Next Best 2, 6, 1
Fast Start 5, 7

 

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

Nine Korean-bred gallopers will face the starter in the third where it is hard to make a case for the majority of the field. (9) GOLD FIELD comes off a last start placing behind Daehyong Hojae over the 1400m which reads well for this assignment. The four-year-old has had the fourteen starts yielding two minor placings, which is a hardly convincing statistic, but based on her previous run she can work forward and should hold off most of the field. (8) WINDY RUSH debuts after some fair trials. She showed some speed in her trials so expect her to work forward. She is capable of placing on debut. (5) YAHO M J CAT is second up after a midfield performance behind Top Seed last time out. She started to throw in the short strides halfway up the straight. She should be better for the run and dropping back a furlong should be an advantage. (3) CHEON CHONG lines up after a midfield performance when resuming. He is yet to place from six starts but in such a weak assignment can run into the money.

Selections (9) Gold Field (8) Windy Rush (5) Yaho M J Cat (3) Cheon Chong
Next Best 2, 1
Fast Start 2, 5, 9

 

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) TERRA SPEED went into the shutdown having run 2nd on a wet track in a similar race over this distance. He trialed up three weeks ago, finishing 3rd in his heat in a solid time and looks poised to make his breakthrough here. (4) MONEY LINE ran 3rd in that same trial. He hadn’t shown an awful lot in six starts prior to the break but it may have ended up doing him so good and he has a fresh start here. (2) DALRINEUN BITKKAL has a 2nd and a 3rd among his seven outings so far. He returned to action with a 5th place over 1400M on June 21st and should be improving on that today. Under Kim Yong-geun, he can settle just behind the lead and run on strongly. (6) BIG FACE didn’t show much speed in two outings before the shutdown, but he didn’t really need to do too much to finish 2nd in the latter of them. His trial was no better than average, but he should be competitive in this company.

Selections (1) Terra Speed (2) Dalrineun Bitkkal (6) Big Face (4) Money Line
Next Best 3, 9
Fast Start 1, 7

 

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

A field of twelve will face the starter in the fifth where there looks to be an abundance of speed. (3) JANGSAN BADA has begun his career in good style winning on debut back in February before backing it up with a second behind Wang Taeng I three weeks back. He has drawn perfectly to get a trail into the race and let down with a nice turn of foot. (5) BLUE K comes off a Class 6 win when leading throughout last start. Expect Kim Yong-geun to work forward once again from a good draw and try to lead throughout. (2) MAPAEBONG looks next best after finishing second last time out in similar grade. The Ecton Park entire sprouted wings late to rocket home over the same distance. (6) TOP SEED is a last start winner when leading throughout. The time was reasonable for this grade, with an economic run he can run into the money.

Selections (3) Jangsan Bada (5) Blue K (2) Mapaebong (6) Top Seed
Next Best 9, 1
Fast Start 3, 5, 6, 10

 

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

The maiden gallopers line up in the second event where a case can be made for many. Going with the lightly raced (2) SUSO TANK to improve at her second start. She was good on debut when hitting the line strongly after running on from a long way back. She should be at an each way price in this event. The extra furlong should only help her chances. (6) JEONSEOLUI FIGHT is the likely favourite in the event. The Colors Flying (more…)

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

Busan was struck by monsoon rains during the early part of Friday’s card but while there is the possibility of showers, there should be no such problems at Seoul for Saturday’s behind closed doors fixture. There are 13 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews: 

20200522_115513.jpg

It will be empty at Seoul again

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A field of inexperienced fillies and mares kick off proceedings at Seoul where they are all looking for their first victory. (4) WONDERFUL LIGHT gets her best chance to date to break maiden status coming off a good effort behind Hansen Choice three weeks back. The Tiz Wonderful filly hit the line with gusto last time out where they clocked a reasonable time. She drops back to the 1000m where Moon Jung-kyun will need to ensure she sits closer to the speed this time around. (3) PRIME SUMMIT comes off a midfield performance when debuting three weeks ago. The Chapel Royal filly got tired in the final stages after positioning directly behind the speed. She should take improvement from the run and be gifted a nice run from a good draw. (5) AMAZING WHIZ is first up since the enforced break. She has had the two previous starts, the most recent of them she finished fourth over the 1300m when finishing off strong. It is unknown if the drop back to the 1000 will suit her, but she did clock a reasonable trial time over the five furlongs during the break. (10) MARU CASTLE is one of three debutants lining up in the event. Her recent trial was encouraging when finishing second in a fair time. Keep her safe in your exotic bets.

Selections (4) Wonderful Light (3) Prime Summit (5) Amazing Whiz (10) Maru Castle
Next Best 1, 2
Fast Start 3. 6

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Maiden two-year-olds go around here with just two of the eight having raced previously. They went in the same race and of the pair, (1) NINE EYE was the one to emerge with some credit, running 5th of twelve and through the line strongly. He can be expected to have come on for that run and to improve today. The main dangers are likely to emerge from the first-timers. (4) ADELE MUSTANG looks the most likely, having run well in a May trial posting a good time on what was admittedly a fast track. He’s the second foal from his dam, who won here five times and the jockey/trainer combination will tempt plenty. He can win. (3) JOEUN GWANGYE, who should be on speed from the start, and (8) LUCKY WORLD are others who performed well enough in trials to be considered place chances first-up.

Selections (4) Adele Mustang (1) Nine Eye (3) Jeoun Gwangye (8) Lucky World
Next Best 6
Fast Start 3, 7

 

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

The third on the card will see the three-year-old maiden gallopers go over the 1200m. (1) KING KANMOREU resumes and will line up for his fifth start. The Hansen chestnut placed over the 1300m last time out behind Jeongmun Bolt in January. He trialed in April and clocked a fair time when comparing it to the strength of this race. (3) WONDERFUL MAMBO looks the next best of the runners engaged coming off a last start fifth behind Big Plan. Her last start was prior to the hiatus, with the filly performing only fair in a trial in April. (5) SEOUL CROWN is another that resumes and is capable of running into the money. The colt has the ability to position on speed and should hold out quite a few. (2) CUPID KOREA is next best with a handy trial in May. He lines up for his fourth start with his best performance a fifth two starts back behind High Wonderful.

Selections (1) King Kanmoreu (3) Wonderful Mambo (5) Seoul Crown (2) Cupid Korea
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 1, 5

 

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

(1) CHODONG ROCKET ran twice last autumn for 3rd and 2nd, the latter in a useful time on a sloppy track at this distance. He’s not raced since and while he was only average in an April trial, he’ll not need to do too much to win this. Kim Yong-geun, who rode him in both those 2019 starts, remains aboard, and he is the one to beat, most likely leading from the start. After an encouraging trial, (7) SANARAE ran a solid 4th on her return to action on June 20th over this distance. She is slightly one-paced but that will be enough to see her go close today. (8) HYPER CAR recorded back to back 3rd place finishes at the turn of the year and while he only managed 6th over 1400M on his return two weeks ago, he too should have enough about him to challenge for a place here. (6) SUN WINNER and (9) BAEKDU GEOPO are others with claims on the minor places.

Selections (1) Chodong Rocket (7) Sanarae (8) Hyper Car (9) Baekdu Geopo
Next Best 6, 2
Fast Start 1, 7

 

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

As is the theme of the day, another small field lines up in the fifth where they will go over the 1200m. (2) GIANT GIRL is second-up after a nice performance when resuming to finish third behind Wish Me over 1300m. She clocked a good time for this class and a similar performance will see her go close. She missed the kick last start, but if she can jump with them she should be ready to strike at the top of the straight. (5) GO UP looks (more…)