Racing Previews

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Moonhak Chief v Cheongdam Dokki – Race-By-Race Preview (February 9)

Korea Cup winner Moonhak Chief faces his big rival Cheongdam Dokki in a heavyweight showdonw at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon while down at Busan, President’s Cup winner New Legend also makes his 2020 debut. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 6 from 12:40 to 17:05. Here are the previews for Seoul with Busan selections below:

Moonhak Chief

Moonhak Chief makes his 2020 debut on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

The maiden fillies kick off proceedings at Seoul on Sunday morning for an eleven-race card. (5) SAEROUN BOBAE finds herself in a weaker assignment and has winning claims. The Whywhywhy filly has placed at her past two starts over the 1300M. She looks suited from barrier five to sit slightly closer to the speed in this event. She has run through the line solidly of late and looks an each-way hope. (12) HAPPY MONTH comes out of the same race where she ran on well to finish fourth. She has been getting well back in her runs before extending stride for the run home. Johan Victoire will be legged aboard the three-year-old for the first time which is a positive. (11) NONGBON RAK lined up in a smart field when debuting early December. The Any Given Saturday filly felt the pinch up the Seoul straight but should take improvement out of the run. She clocked a reasonable time, and this is a weaker assignment. (6) SEMYEONG GANGJA started to work through the line fairly towards the end of her qualifying trial indicating she will appreciate the 1200M on debut.

Selections (5) Saeroun Bobae (12) Happy Month (11) Nongbon Rak (6) Semyeong Gangja

Next Best 2, 8

Fast Start 8, 9

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Another maiden for three-year-olds although this one is open to the colts and geldings as well. Nevertheless, it’s a filly who we’re putting on top in the shape of (8) SHINE FIGHTER. She’s shown plenty of promise over her three starts so far and was just beaten a nose on her latest having led from the start. True she has never run further than 1000M but there is no reason to suppose it won’t suit and she can make her breakthrough here against less than intimidating opposition. (4) GREAT WAY has run on well in both previous starts but has run out of track both times. She’s the one who looks most likely to benefit from the step up in trip. (12) SAND POWER was an improved 3rd at 1300M in December and can maintain his progress here. (10) REAL PACK did nothing wrong on debut at 1300M five weeks ago, recording a time that should be competitive today. The wildcard is (3) BOGO TTO BOGO. He did absolutely nothing on debut to the extent that he got sent back to trial. He looked a completely different animal in that subsequent trial, running a good 2nd in a useful time and if he brings that form to the track, can go well today.

Selections (8) Shine Fighter (4) Great Way (12) Sand Power (3) Bogo Tto Bogo

Next Best 10, 5

Fast Start 8, 9, 12

 

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

The third from Seoul is a small but competitive event with four of the ten engaged having winning claims. (2) JOY BROTHER was a good winner at his second start when defeating Money Silk in a two-year-old event. The Peace Rules gelding appreciated the step up to the 1300M at his second start when flying home to win by a length. He steps up once again to the 1400M, expect him to take a sit and fly home with a manageable weight on his back. (4) BEST LUCKY backed up his maiden victory with a good performance behind Lucky Beopcheon. He was beaten 2.5L but he exceeded expectations when finishing 2nd. He’s an on-speed runner and should look a winning chance as they head for home. (5) GWANGPOK JUHAENG bounced back to some form last start to place behind Tiz Rose. He finished less than two-lengths behind the winner, but the time was not fast, matching that of the class 6 winner on the same day. (3) SPADE MASHIE was respectable last time out when 5th behind Duri. The four-year-old is one that can run into minor money.

Selections (2) Joy Brother (4) Best Lucky (5) Gwangpok Juhaeng (3) Spade Mashie

Next Best 7, 9

Fast Start 4

 

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

Fillies and mares only here. (8) JILJUUI KKUM led every step of the way to record a five-length victory on what was just her second career start on December 21st. She is up in both class and in distance today but can overcome both to win again. It’s a competitive field though and it won’t be easy. (9) POWER TOWER has a 3rd and a 2nd in two attempts at this class following her maiden win in October. She very nearly made all last start only to go down by a neck and she will challenge Jiljuui Kkum for the early lead. So too will (1) AN MOK HANG. Having won a very similar race to this in September she than had three months off, returning in January to run well again for 3rd. She carries 5kg more than when she won but should be dangerous here. (6) BIG RIVER was a battling maiden winner last time and comes up in class today looking competitive. (7) WIN BLADE looks best of a useful rest.

Selections (8) Jiljuui Kkum (9) Power Tower (1) An Mok Hang (6) Big River

Next Best 7, 10

Fast Start 1, 7, 8, 9

 

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

There will be no cheap sectionals in the fifth with half of the field looking to map on speed. (11) RAON HANNIBAL looks one that get in well-weighted and will be able to sit off the leading division. She showed a nice turn of foot last time out when beating Geum Royal by a neck. She’s building a nice record with three wins from four starts and looks a good chance with just the 53.5kg on her back. (12) CHAMP K looks to have each-way claims in the race. He ran home well last time out to finish 3rd behind Geosen Jilju, in a race where the form reads relatively strong. He is another that will settle rearwards especially from the wide draw. Shin Hyung-chul will bide his time allowing the for-year-old to steam home late. (4) BUCKETFUL GOLD is a perennial runner-up horse with five (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 7)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 11 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Turn

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

A field of twelve maidens will kick off proceedings on an eleven-race card from Busan. (7) HONOR QUEEN is the on top selection after a good trial performance when coasting through the line. The filly was gobbled up late to run second but was never fully asked for by You-Hyun-Myung, who will ride her for her first start. She should be an each-way price with a few winning chances engaged. (6) DALLAE looks a main player coming off successive placings in this company. The Thunder Moccasin filly went down a length when trying to chase down leader/winner Aragaya Wangseong last start. (9) AMAZING GIRL has run on fairly at her past two starts to collect some minor money. The filly looks the best chance of the back markers and will be hitting the line strong, she will be aided if the pressure is piled on at the front of the field. (3) MIRACLE WIND comes off a third behind Linchpin last start which reads well for this race. She was beaten 7.5 lengths on debut but this is a much easier assignment.

Selections (7) Honor Queen (6) Dallae (9) Amazing Girl (3) Miracle Wind

Next Best 2, 1

Fast Start 2, 6, 7

 

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

Not the strongest of maidens here although one or two have offered some hints at ability. All of them tackle the 1200M for the first time although most have raced at 1300M or further. (2) THE SUN OF GOD drops back in trip following a useful 4th over a mile last start. He briefly led that day and while he is one-paced, from a good draw, he can go closer. (10) FUSION PARK is two starts into a comeback following a lengthy absence. She looks to be on the correct trajectory and ran well at 1300M before her lay-off. The most experienced animal in the race is (7) BEAUTIFUL KOREA and while that is most certainly not a good thing at class 6, she ran above herself two starts bac to run 3rd in a better race than this at 1300M. She is inconsistent but if she gets off to a good start, she can figure. (11) GEUMA KAIROS didn’t do much on debut but previously trialed well and the connections will tempt plenty while the wildcard is (6) YEONGGWANGUI TEUKG. He raced three times without distinction and comes back in after almost a year off. He trialed competently.

Selections (11) Geuma Kairos (2) The Sun Of God (10) Fusion Park (7) Beautiful Korea

Next Best 6, 9

Fast Start 2, 4, 5, 7

 

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

There appears to be a short priced favourite in the third on the card. (3) DOCTOR GREY looks ready to breakthrough for his first win after finishing second last time out behind Future King. The colt has shown speed at his last couple of starts and looks one that can lead and win over the six furlongs. Don’t expect a price about him as his opponents haven’t shown much at all to date. (6) EAGLE STAR placed at big odds last time out. The gelding improved in the middle stages and was one-paced through the line. He can fill a place with the right run. (4) FAMILY DANCER lines up for her sixth start after finishing fourth over the five furlongs last time out. The Tout filly ran better when sitting near the speed last start, with Lee Hyo-Sik likely to do just that with a reasonable draw. (9) WISE GIRL debuts after running 1.03.0 in her qualifying trial. She will have to jump from the car park on debut but looks one forward enough to collect a cheque.

Selections (3) Doctor Grey (6) Eagle Star (4) Family Dancer (9) Wise Girl

Next Best 8, 7

Fast Start 3

 

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

It’s a new distance for all twelve of these maidens and there is plenty of promise throughout the field. (11) FASHION KEY has shown progress across his three starts so far, culminating in a narrow defeat last start when she and the winner were seven-lengths clear of the rest of the field. She’ll need to cross to get to the front but if she can do that then she is the one to beat. Needing to cross early is an issue that faces her main rival, (10) B.K. EUAN. His recent work has been at a mile and he only missed out by a nose two starts back before running a decent 4th last time. He surely has a win in him at some stage. Completing the trio who are likely to set the early speed is (4) ACE JACKPOT. She was considered promising enough to take her chance in a big juvenile race last autumn and although she found herself overmatched, she has gone close twice since. She steps up in trip and it may suit. (7) FLYING KINGS is another with near-misses to his name already while (6) WONDERFU EI also enters with his form reading well and with the potential to make more progress.

Selections (11) Fashion Key (10) B.K. Euan (4) Ace Jackpot (7) Flying Kings

Next Best 6, 1

Fast Start 4, 10, 11

 

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

One of the best bets on the card is in the fifth where a compact field of nine will take to the track. (5) MR. VALOR comes off a last start second behind Power Train when going down a neck. The Ecton Park colt drops back a furlong for his fourth start with Lee Sung-Jae to be legged aboard. From barrier five it is expected he will sit in the first couple in running and will take some chasing down. (4) DOCTOR MAX run a much better race last time out when fourth behind Aragaya Wangseong. The Officer filly looked to be crying out for more distance last start and she gets that today. (2) KING BROTHER looks one that will be better third-up after feeling the pinch up the straight last time out. The colt is likely to sit in the first four in running with a lack of pace engaged. (6) FUTURE CHAMPION lines up for his second start after finishing midfield on debut. He may be one that adds some spice to your novelties. (more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 2)

There is Sunday racing at Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:40 to 17:05). Here are the previews:

Ace Korea - KRA

Ace Korea carries 60kg in Sunday’s feature at Busan

Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A maiden to kick things off and there are a couple here with the potential to win. Chief among them is (4) YEOLRIN MUN who has run 3rd in both his latest two starts, barely beaten a length on both occasions. He steps back slightly in trip today but it is well drawn to lead and looks the one to beat. (6) WANGINHAENGCHA showed improvement on his second start four weeks ago. He ran on well over the 1000M and is set to appreciate the additional distance today. (10) HOEBOK and to a slightly lesser extent (11) SPEED FLYING also hinted at ability in their respective latest outings and can continue to make progress here. There are two debut-makers in the field and of them (8) CHEONGSU RIDER looks the most promising at this stage. He ran 3rd in a fast trial on an admittedly wet track in January and can go well first up here.

Selections (4) Yeolrin Mun (6) Wanginhaengcha (10) Hoebok (8) Cheongsu Rider

Next Best 11, 3

Fast Start 3, 4, 5, 10

 

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

A field of twelve maiden gallopers will line up over the 1300M in the second. (7) RUFFIAN PARK takes on an easier assignment today after finishing 4th last start over the same distance. The son of Ecton Park has been running on strong at his past few starts and there appears to be minimal speed engaged suggesting Antonio Da Silva may be able to settle him closer to the speed before unleashing his turn of foot. (9) BOMNALUI GIEOK comes into the race in good form having placed at his last two starts. The Colors Flying colt has been settling midfield in his races before hitting the line well. He will get the services of star jockey Moon Se Young, who may have to settle further back than wanted from an awkward draw. (1) BAEKDU GEOPO finished 2nd behind Sun Fighting last start early in December and was then trialed in early January. He has been in work quite some time so fitness is not a query, however, Song Jae-chul will need to be mindful of not getting too far back from a good draw as the horse lacks early speed. (8) SIN ROK has shown enough at his past couple of races to suggest he can finish in the money.

Selections (7) Ruffian Park (9) Bomnalui Gieok (1) Baekdu Geopo (8) Sin Rok

Next Best 6, 12

Fast Start 2, 10

 

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

A maiden for three-year-old fillies only and it’s (7) ONE AND ONLY who is set to be the favourite. After running 4th on her first two starts, both over 1000M, she was stepped up to 1300M last time and duly ran 2nd to Athena V. She gets out of the gate well so expect her to be on top early and go all the way. (8) LUISA was 3rd on her belated debut in December, running on pleasingly over 1000M. The extra trip today has every chance of suiting and she is to be considered. (10) HWA SSI BYEOK has shown progress across her two outings so far and can continue to develop today. Those three are the clear standouts and the Trio on them will be a short price. As for the others, (1) HWARYEO and (3) CHEONJI YEOGEOL, the latter more promising in a trial than on a woeful debut, have perhaps the most potential to improve.

Selections (7) One And Only (8) Luisa (10) Hwa Ssi Byeok (1) Hwaryeo

Next Best 3, 12

Fast Start 1, 7, 8

 

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

The fourth on the card has an abundance of speed where it appears the winner will come from sitting in the first four when they take the turn for home. (7) ROAD RAN was a superb winner back in October, scoring by a big margin. With just 52kg on her back, she looks hard to beat. Song Jae-chul will be legged aboard and she should sit in the leading division. (1) BIG CLASSIC has started her career well wit one win and two minors from four starts. The Officer filly resumed last start to finish 2nd behind Looking Good over the 1300M. You can expect further improvement with the first-up run under her belt. (2) GIANT GIRL broke through last start in Class 6 company for her first win. She ran a reasonable time but will need to improve further to be a winning chance. (9) FLYING JOY looks best of the rest coming off a last start 3rd behind Royal Smarty.

Selections (7) Road Ran (1) Big Classic (2) Giant Girl (9) Flying Joy

Next Best 8, 6

Fast Start 1, 2, 7, 9

 

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

Competitive race here but we’ll side with (4) SUPER ECTON. He came from off the pace to secure a somewhat unexpected maiden win over 1300M just before Christmas and while he is up in class today, he can back up that form today with an extra half furlong to play with. (2) NOLBU CHEONHA is the primary danger. He was a winner at 1700M in November and while he didn’t go especially well on his first try at this class a month ago, also over the extended trip, that was a significantly stronger race than this and he should find things more amenable today. (3) KINGLY too faced superior opposition last time and should be better in today’s shallower waters while in the case of (5) SUNSHINE TEUKGEUP, a drop back in trip here could be just what she needs to find her form again. As for the others, (6) BLACK GINGA is a nineteen-race maiden but occasionally picks ap a cheque and should be competitive in this company.

Selections (4) Super Ecton (2) Nolbu Cheonha (3) Kingly (5) Sunshine Teukgeup

Next Best 6, 8

Fast Start 1, 7

 

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

Punters will watch the sixth with intrigue as there appears to be a couple of handy Korean-breds in the field. (7) GEUMBIT JANGIN looks as if he is in for a good preparation. The Menifee colt won when resuming before finishing 3rd last start behind the talented Legend Storm. He was beaten a big margin, but this looks an easier assignment for the four-year-old. (12) RAON TAP MAN has also showed plenty of ability early on in his (more…)

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

There are 13 Saturday races in Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Moon Se Young 3

Moon Se Young is back from injury today

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

The three-year-old maiden gallopers line up for the first on the thirteen-event card where we can get excited to see some first starters who look to have some potential. (5) OLD BLADE produced an eye-catching trial when untouched by Antonio Da Silva, who will take the ride for her first start. She didn’t run the fastest time, but she covered the ground with ease and looked to have plenty left in the tank. She showed early speed in her heat so expect her to position on the pace. (3) MAGIC PLAN is another one that wasn’t asked for in her trial but seemed to cover the ground well. The Plan filly will be ridden by Park Tae-Jong and it will be interesting to see what she offers when in full flight. (1) ICE PUNCH has race experience and will line up for his second start. He was good on debut when second, less than two lengths behind Dia Key. Punters can rejoice as the amazing Moon Se Young is back in action, he will be aboard the amazing looking grey galloper. (6) CHEONJI ULLIM had one run back in July when finishing second behind Taktuein where the margin was eight lengths. Connections seem to have gone him right again and he can run into the money. Good race with some promising types.

Selections (5) Old Blade (3) Magic Plan (1) Ice Punch (6) Cheonji Ullim

Next Best 8, 7

Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 11

 

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

Weak maiden here but that means it’s very competitive with any number vying to be the least slow around the 1300M. It could well end up being (2) THANK YOU DAECHEON, who has been one-paced in two outings so far but has registered competitive times in decent company. He’ll settle just behind the pace and could out-plod them late on. (3) GLOBAL WANGJA ran through the line nicely for 3rd on debut over 1000M in December. The additional trip should suit, and he can be in the frame here. Draw a line through (4) EAST ONE’s latest effort which came from the widest barrier. He should be able to get to the lead here and can be a danger. (8) CHEONJI KKOT BARAM is one of only two in the race – the other being East One – who has a runner-up finish to his name and that should put him in the hunt as well. (11) SPEED DANCER looks best of the limited rest.

Selections: (2) Thank You Daecheon (3) Global Wangja (4) East One (8) Cheonji Kkot Baram

Next Best: 11, 5

Fast Start: 1, 4, 5, 10

 

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

The third event looks tough for punters with many chances engaged. The dominant form line appears to be the race which Bravo Gwacheon won back on 4th January. (7) WILD WOODS finished third in the race over 1300m when running through the line strong. The Forest Camp three-year-old is likely to work forward in a race that lacks speed and be one of the main players come the business end. (5) GUREUM BADA crossed the line with Wild Woods last start and is another of the main chances. The gelding improved significantly at his second start after being well beaten on debut. He should be able to settle in the first half of the field. (4) HONG SAN ran on fairly last start when lining up in a 2yo event won by Lady Kelly. He should appreciate an easier assignment along with a better draw suggesting Park Byeong-Yun may be able to settle him closer to the speed. (6) THE DREAM lost considerable ground when they jumped last start resulting in the Menifee gelding having to settle well back. The three-year-old managed to run home well when it was all over.

Selections (7) Wild Woods (5) Gureum Bada (4) Hong San (6) The Dream

Next Best 9, 8

Fast Start 3, 7, 8

 

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

(3) FUTURE FIRE steps up in class having secured his maiden win at the fourth time of asking on January 5. The manner of that victory was pleasing as he made all to score by a full-five lengths in a time that would win plenty of races at this level too. He’s drawn nicely once more and can lead all the way again. Experienced campaigners (6) GWANGYA BULGIDUNG and (11) BARAMUI MISO came home 4th and 5th with a length between them when they raced each other over the distance on January 4. Neither wins out of turn – or in the latter’s case at all – but both have enough about them to be competitive here and can aim to place. (2) BLUE DAEJAYEON tackles the distance for the first time and can go well from a good draw. (10) INDY LADY is inconsistent but is another capable of running into some money in this company.

Selections: (3) Future Fire (6) Gwangya Bulgidung (11) Baramui Miso (2) Blue Daejayeon

Next Best: 10, 5

Fast Start: 2, 3, 10

 

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A field of twelve will go over the two turns in the fifth all looking for their first win. (7) BLUE CHARM is likely to start favourite but we would suggest avoiding short odds. The Song Moon-Gil trained galloper finished third last start behind Wang Taeng I in one of the stronger two-year-old events. Expect improvement from the Colors Flying colt at his (more…)

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

Racing is back! Following the short break for Lunar New Year, the weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 12 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:


2019100407533723524.jpg

Save The World was one of Busan’s top juveniles last year and he returns today

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

We kick off with one of the weakest maidens you’re likely to see at Busan. Four of the twelve are racing for the first time and it is to those who we will turn for our top pick. (1) NEW PROSPECT looked quite the prospect indeed when making all to win a trial two weeks ago. If he brings that form to the races, he won’t need to go very much quicker to beat this lot. None of the other first-timers looked up to very much just yet in their respective heats so we’ll have to go with the experienced ones to find the main dangers. (5) ECHO MOON ran well on debut in December and while she couldn’t repeat on her reappearance earlier this month, she evidently has some ability and can be competitive here. (2) CHEONGCHUN DREAM didn’t do too much wrong when 6th on debut and can improve today. (4) BAEDARI SUNSHINE and (11) MUJEOK YONGBYEONG, the latter a trial winner who ran greenly on debut, are others in the hunt

Selections (1) New Prospect (5) Echo Moon (11) Mujeok Yongbyeong (2) Cheongchun Dream
Next Best 4, 9
Fast Start 1, 4, 8, 10

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

A tough assignment for analysts to look over with a lack of form to assess in the second on the card. Whilst never finishing closer than fifth in his three starts to date, (9) SPACE POWER looks one capable of running well. The Clear Attempt colt has run comparatively quick times in races that have been considerably stronger than this event. At set weights he looks a good chance and is likely to map closer to the speed in the race. (11) JEONSEOLUI FIGHT has had just the three starts to date where he has also clocked some reasonable times. The son of Colors Flying drops back to the six furlongs which looks suitable after failing over the mile last time out. His first and seconds runs where respectable albeit he was well beaten. (10) ZENITH POWER has been one paced through the line in some stronger events. He will be stretched out to the 1200m for the first time. (8) ROYAL CASTLE has been well beaten at all five starts to date but is capable of running into some minor money.

Selections (9) Space Power (11) Jeonseolui Fight (10) Zenith Power (8) Royal Castle
Next Best 4, 2
Fast Start 1

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

(10) FANTASTIC WINNER has been neither fantastic nor a winner in three starts to date but at least one of those should change today. The Midshipman colt has been consistent since going down narrowly on debut and has since run 4th and 3rd in arguably better races than this one. He’ll be aiming to get to the front as soon as possible and can lead all the way. (6) GRAND CAPTAIN has shown signs of figuring things out with promising performances in his latest couple and looks set to be a danger today. Four of these raced each other over 1300M on January 3rd in what was a deeper race strength wise than this. The best among them was (9) PERFECT ANGEL, who ran 5th and can be expected to build on that here. (3) RAINBOW PARK wasn’t too far away in 6th place and already has a 2nd and a 3rd to his name. (11) MAGIC STEALTH has been inconsistent across her eleven outings but has hinted at ability and can aim for the places here.

Selections (10) Fantastic Winner (3) Rainbow Park (9) Perfect Angel (6) Grand Captain
Next Best 11, 5
Fast Start 3, 10, 12

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

A small batch of three-year-old fillies line up in the fourth where there is no standout given the lack of form. (2) CHEONNYEONUI GIL lines up for her fifth career start and will appreciate an easier assignment. The Tiz Wonderful filly was tried over the mile last time out capitulating in bad fashion down the home straight. She showed promise over the 1300m when she collected a cheque at her first three starts in some handy juvenile races. Lee Hee-Cheon is reunited with her today for whom she has performed well previously. (5) MARK ACE lines up for her second career start after finishing midfield on debut. She was sent out a rank outsider on debut and ran better than expected. She looks an athletic type and improvement may be on the cards with a run under her belt. (3) GOLD CANDY is another lining up for her second career start. The Indie Band filly finished fourth on debut in a two-year-old event. The event she comes out of wasn’t overly strong but with improvement and a small field she cannot be discounted. (6) BLUE SIGNAL finished fifth on debut behind Global Hero when lining up against both sexes in a three-year-old event earlier this month. She lost her position in the middle stages before hitting the line fairly. Seo Seung-Un will be legged aboard once again which is a plus.

Selections (2) Cheonnyeonui Gil (5) Mark Ace (3) Gold Candy (6) Blue Signal
Next Best 7, 8
Fast Start 3

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

(12) ONE PICK has raced twice so far, finishing in 3rd place on both occasions, both over 1300M. He has finished off well both times and stepping up to a mile today looks very much the one to beat. He’ll need to overcome the wide draw to get on pace but One Pick is the clear pick here. (2) CHEONNYEONUIGUREUM is another one who may benefit from the step up in trip here. He ran on well for 2nd on his first try at 1300M last start and looks set to be ridden further forward here. He can be strong late on. (3) WONDERFUL CITY has more experience and comes in off a career-best 3rd place last start when (more…)

Segye Ilbo Cup At Seoul, Triple Nine At Busan: Sunday Race-By-Race Preview (January 19)

The first Listed action of the year in Korea gets underway at Seoul on Sunday afternoon as Gaon Champ heads a field of 14 in the Segye Ilbo Cup over 1200M. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00.  Down at Busan, where there are 6 races from 12:40 to 17:05, four-time President’s Cup winner Triple Nine makes his first start in thirteen months in the feature race 6.

Gaon Champ KRA

Gaon Champ (Pic: KRA)

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

Not the strongest of maidens to open proceedings and having run 2nd on debut on December 21st, (5) THE KING CLASS gets the pick. True he was beaten eight-lengths by a useful looking winner, but he showed plenty of late speed to finish well. He must take care not to get too far back and if he does that, he can win. (4) MASTER FUTURE debuted the same day in a different maiden, running a competitive 4th and he can build on that here, in his case from the front. He’ll be joined on speed by (2) NUNBIT EUNYAK, who has had an interrupted career so far but should have come on for his run over 1300M in December to come into contention here. (12) BLACK SILVER has the fastest time of any of these over the distance and despite the wide draw, can be considered. There are three debut-makers and of them (11) ACE CHEONHA looks to have the best chance of making a positive impression first up.

Selections (5) The King Class (12) Black Silver (4) Master Future (2) Nunbit Eunyak

Next Best 11, 10

Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 4

 

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

Twelve fillies line up in the second over the 1300m. (4) JEONJEONGSAGUEM comes off a solid performance last time out when finishing third behind Heunghaeng Jilju. The Tiz Wonderful filly ran through the line strongly on that occasion in a respectable time for this class. She’s drawn ideally to sit in the first half of the field before finishing off strong. (3) WIND HILL lines up for her second career start. The Colors Flying filly will step up to the 1300m for the first time which looks to suit based on her debut. She finished third behind Lady Kelly on debut when the margin was three and a half lengths. She will be better for the run and should be considered an each-way chance. (11) BORN TO GLORY ran on well last when debuting over the 1300m. The filly is likely to settle back from and awkward draw but can run on strong to collect some prize money. (7) SOARA YEOJANGGUN showed some improvement last start when finishing fifth and is another that can collect some minor money.

Selections (4) Jeonjeongsageum (3) Wind Hill (11) Born To Glory (7) Soara Yeojanggun

Next Best 10, 8

Fast Start 4, 7

 

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

(6) WONDERFUL PLEASURE was a beaten favourite over 1300M on December 2nd, leading for part of the race but getting headed late on and ultimately finishing in 6th place. The margins weren’t huge though, he has Alan Munro on board today and he should be on speed from the start with solid claims to overturn the form. (8) DIECO finished in 3rd place in that race, a couple of lengths ahead of Wonderful Pleasure. That continued a solid run of form for Dieco who, while a bit one-paced, should have enough about him to go close once more today. (7) JEONGMUN BOLT raced most ungenerously in his latest start but still managed to finished in midfield against a set of rivals superior to those he faces today. (11) KING KANMOREU has shown steady progress over three outings to date and is another who can aim for at least a place. (3) GLOBAL SUN did nothing wrong on debut at 1000M and may appreciate the additional trip today

Selections (6) Wonderful Pleasure (8) Dieco (7) Jeongmun Bolt (11) King Kanmoreu

Next Best 3, 5

Fast Start 2, 6, 8, 11

 

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

There appears a lack of early pace in the fourth on the card. A beneficiary of the limited speed engaged is the last start winner (9) WANG TAENG I. The chestnut was impressive on debut when winning by an impressive seven lengths and clocking 1:21.1 for the 1300m. Shin Hyoung Chul is likely to shoot straight to the lead and should prove hard to catch. (3) MISSILE CANDY has been stuck in Class5 company for quite some time but has ran some reasonable races of late. The Twirling Candy entire comes off a last start third behind Ace Win when finishing the race of solidly. It is expected that Ham Wan-Sik will settle in the first four. (2) BISAYEON was unlucky last time out when having to overcome a wide draw and eventually finishing well beaten. The four-year-old has drawn better for this assignment and punters should refer to his effort two starts back when running second to Meni Hero. (12) JEJUI YOJEONG backed up her maiden win with a fair performance last start when fifth behind Clean Up Trio. She is a natural backmarker so the gate should not be an issue. Look for her late rattling off one of the faster sectionals.

Selections (9) Wang Taeng I (3) Missile Candy (2) Bisayeon (12) Jejui Yojeong

Next Best 8, 5

Fast Start 9

 

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

(3) GO UP ran out a winner on debut in November, making all over this distance before running 2nd on her first try at this class in December, beaten seven-lengths by Eagle Eye. She’s nicely drawn to lead here and can return to the winner’s circle. It won’t be easy though. (10) SIMPLE STYLE was just half a length behind Go Up in 2nd place in that November race, before returning to register a win of his own a month ago. He’s up in class today and with Munro aboard, will be a big danger. (7) CLEAN UP TRIO comes in following an unexpected class and distance win four weeks ago. He carries an additional 3kg today, but his stable has remained in good form and a repeat isn’t impossible. (5) GAGANA was an eye-catching six-length winner over this distance on December 1st and while he steps up in class and into deeper waters today, he should be competitive. (12) GALAXY PEACE is two starts into a comeback following seven months out and can challenge for minor money.

Selections (3) Go Up (10) Simple Style (5) Gagana (7) Clean Up Trio

Next Best 12, 1

Fast Start 2, 3, 4, 7

 

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (9) SECRET ILLUSION is up in class having won on debut over 1000M at the end of December, but she is going to have to improve significantly on that run to be competitive in this company. (2) FIRST STAR is perhaps the one to beat. Having registered her maiden win at this distance in early December she (more…)

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 13 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Start

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

 A field of twelve Korean-bred three-year-old maidens line up over the 1300m in the first on the card. (10) ALCHAN NURI looks the one to beat coming off a good debut performance. The Federalist gelding flew from the tail of the field to finish second behind High Wonderful. The time was good for this grade and Kim Dong-Soo retains the ride. (7) NAUI SINHWA comes out of a strong form line where he finished fifth behind Lady Kelly who has since gone on and saluted once again. He has drawn slightly better in this event which may result in Kim Jeong-Jun being able to position the three-year-old closer to the speed. (8) DREAM FASHION is another that comes out of a strong race. The Old Fashioned colt was one-paced in the final stages when ending up fifth behind Dia Key. This is easier and he will benefit from the debut run. (3) A TO Z trialed last Friday finishing second in good time. His last run was at the start of December when running fairly over the 1300m. His performances in his trials suggest he can run into the money.

Selections (10) Alchan Nuri (7) Naui Sinhwa (8) Dream Fashion (3) A To Z

Next Best 5, 2

Fast Start 3, 8

 

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

Competitive race. (11) MIRACLE ICHEON has finished 3rd in both starts so far, both of them over this distance and last time in arguably better company than this. He’s not a fast starter though which may be of some concern but he has run on well both times – just running out of track. If he’s close at the top of the stretch, he should win. If he does leave himself too much to do again, (4) MAD DIVA could be the one to take advantage. She was beaten less than a length on her latest outing over this distance just before Christmas and from gate 4 should be on speed from the start. (5) P.K. DOLPUNG ran well for 4th on his first try at this distance last start and can better from a more favourable draw today. (3) LAST MAGIC steps up to the distance for the first time after a useful 3rd over 1000M a month ago while the solitary debut-maker, (6) TIZ CITY, did nothing wrong in trials and can go well first-up.

Selections: (11) Miracle Icheon (4) Mad Diva (3) Last Magic (5) P.K. Dolpung

Next Best: 6, 9

Fast Start: 3, 4, 5, 8

 

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

Twelve Korean-bred maidens will go over the 1300m in the third event. (5) EAST CHAMP had his first go over 1300m last time out when finishing fourth behind Strong Red. The Ecton Park colt finished less than two lengths behind the winner last time out and this looks an easier assignment. (7) KOREA DAEJANGBU comes out of the same race where finishing fifth. The four-year-old is still looking for his first win after ten starts but he has run some reasonable races. (8) SPECIAL AGAIN maps to settle in the second half of the field and produce her turn of foot late. The filly will get the services of Alan Munro for the first time which is a positive. (6) SANARAE handed in her best career performance to date last time out when second behind Best Lucky. The Any Given Saturday filly ran only a fair time and will need to find a few lengths to be considered a winning chance.

Selections (5) East Champ (7) Korea Daejangbu (8) Special Again (6) Sanarae

Next Best 3, 4

Fast Start 6

 

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

(6) SAENAE SPURT recorded his maiden win at this distance in November and then ran a very good 2nd on his first try at this class on December 22nd. He comes from just off the pace with a good turn of foot and he could well be returning to the winner’s circle here. (11) GEOMPO’s maiden win last start had been coming and he made all to win very handily over 1000M. He’s up in class today but has already performed well at 1300M. He is a front-runner so the draw isn’t ideal but if he can get to the front then he has claims. (1) DASHING CANOE has proven competitive at this class. She goes well back at the start and her manners have been an issue but she could well run into some prize money late on. (8) MONEY SILK remains a maiden but is up in class following back to back runner up finishes and should be competitive from on the pace. (10) LUCKY MIDAS was 4th behind Saenae Spurt last time out and can aim to match that today.

Selections: (6) Saenae Spurt (11) Geompo (8) Money Silk (1) Dashing Canoe

Next Best: 10, 3

Fast Start: 8, 10, 11

 

Race 5: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

 There is a severe lack of exposed form in the fifth where they will line up over the short course. (4) DANGCHAN BARAM appears to start favourite after finishing second behind Our Simon last time out. The filly crossed from barrier twelve to sit on speed and clock a good time for this grade. With the better draw today she should take up the running and prove hard to run down. (11) DREAM GIRLS will line up for her second start after a fair (more…)

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

The last weekend of racing before the short Lunar New Year’s break gets underway at Busan on Friday with 12 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are thre previews:

RH7_2434

It’s Friday! It’s Busan!

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

The first on the card will see a field of twelve Korean-bred maidens take to the track where either their sire or dam raced on Korean soil. (2) JUST WIN looks hard to beat after his debut. The Tamna Ace gelding ran an eye-catching second after sitting wide throughout over the 1000m. His dam has thrown some good horses but none better than 2011 Oaks winner Useung Touch. Just Win looks to settle just off speed and hit the line strong in a race that lacks early speed. (12) PINEUI KKUM has improved with each run and looks the likely pacemaker in the event. He was sent out at short odds last time in a similar strength event where he finished second. Expect him to cross shortly after the start and give them something to run down. (8) NAMYANG SEUGNI showed an impressive turn of speed last start when second behind Ultra Phoenix. The Chapel Royal colt has lacked early speed at all three starts to date but will be flying home. (4) THUNDER BAY lines up for his tenth start yielding four top-four finishes to date. He looks a place chance with a well-timed ride.

Selections (2) Just Win (12) Pineui Kkum (8) Namyang Seugni (4) Thunder Bay

Next Best 3, 6

Fast Start 12

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Quite a weak maiden here so we can draw a line through the performance of (6) PARTY LION when stepped up to a mile last start and she sunk without trace. Prior to that she had shown promise though, with two 3rd placings over the 1300M. She looks nicely in here and while her propensity to be a touch sluggish out of the gates is a concern, she looks the one to beat. While we are drawing a line through things, we’ll do the same for (3) MAGIC STEALTH’s latest two. She drops back to the minimum distance today which is what she has done her best work over and she should go better. (1) CHEONJI DOKJU and (10) HUIMANG SOYEO are two others who while inconsistent, should be figuring in this company, however, the main danger could be a first-time starter. (2) KINGS LANDING was slowly away in her trial but made up very good ground. She’s likely to be ridden more forward on debut here and she has every chance of going very well first-up.

Selections: (6) Party Lion (2) Kings Landing (3) Magic Stealth (1) Cheonji Dokju

Next Best: 10, 5

Fast Start: 2, 4, 12

 

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

 A field of twelve inexperienced three-year-olds will go over the 1300m in the third. (5) BARBARIAN was extremely green on debut when bombing the start and switching back to the inside up the straight. Taking that into account, he displayed a nice turn of speed to finish fourth in one of the stronger form lines in this race. They ran a fast time for this class in that race and the Competitive Edge colt will be suited by barrier five in this assignment. (6) BANJIUI MAGIC comes out of the same race where he tried to lead throughout at his second start running fourth eventually. At his first start they ran a slick time where he finished second behind Raon Yeogol. He looks one of two pacemakers and he is drawn better so expect him to find the fence first. (12) STRONG MIND was good on debut when finishing third behind Secret Illusion over the 1000m. The colt ran on strong suggesting a cold ride from Jung Do-Yun will suit him again. The one concern is how big the deficit will be at the top of the straight. (10) GLOBAL TOP ran second on debut in a race that was relatively weaker than the aforementioned horses. Seo Seung-Un will be able to put her into the race early as she is the other galloper engaged with early speed.

Selections (5) Barbarian (6) Banjiui Magic (12) Strong Mind (10) Global Top

Next Best 8, 3

Fast Start 6, 10

 

Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens here with all but two of the nine stretching out to a mile for the very first time. One of those two, (5) B.K. EUAN is set to be the top pick. The Alternation gelding has tackled this distance twice already and only came up short by a nose on his latest outing on December 29th. If anything, that was a stronger race than this and from gate 5 he will be expected to lead from the start and this time to not get caught. (7) POWER TRAIN has shown promise over three starts so far with the only problem being that by the time he’s hit his stride the race has been over. He should appreciate the step up to a mile today and can run on strongly. (8) MR. VALOR is another who looks like he will appreciate a bit of distance. He didn’t do much on debut but ran well for a close 4th three weeks ago and should be a contender here. (2) TOP SKY hasn’t done an awful lot on two starts so far but he’s another who tries the mile for the first time and the Kim Young-kwan/Seo Seung-un combination will tempt plenty. (9) ADELE CLASSIC was able to do very little from gate 14 last start but despite being drawn the widest again, should be able to get a prominent early position here and hold on for some prize money.

Selections: (5) B.K. Euan (7) Power Train (8) Mr. Valor (2) Top Sky

Next Best: 9, 1

Fast Start: 5, 9

 

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

 There doesn’t appear to be any superstars in the making in this fifth as a field of twelve will go over the mile. (2) LATINUIHYANGGI looks a main chance after running second at her second start last time out. The filly hit the racing scene as a three-year-old last year when finishing midfield on debut. She then improved last start to finish second albeit beaten fifteen lengths by Blue Power. Quite a few of these runners come out of that race where she held them off safely. (11) GIANT’S HEART showed significant improvement last time out when finishing third to Ultra Phoenix. The chestnut will step up to the mile for the first time where his previous starts indicate he should run it out okay. (4) THE SUN OF GOD is yet to place at his six career starts to date but has ran fair times at his past two starts. This assignment looks an easier take and he can run into some money. (5) GOLDEN RAIN was well beaten last start when sixth behind Monopoly in a slightly stronger race. There will need to be some improvement as he struggled to run the mile out strongly last start.

Selections (2) Latinuihyanggi (11) Giant’s Heart (4) The Sun Of God (5) Golden Rain

Next Best 10, 4

Fast Start 5

 

Race 6: Class 5 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

It took (4) BLUE POWER five goes to get his maiden win but when he managed it, he did it in style, running out a fifteen-length winner on his first try at a mile on December 6th. He found things less easy on his first try at this class two weeks ago when 4th to the very (more…)

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

Sunday’s racing comes from both Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:40 to 17:05). Here are previews for Seoul with selections for Busan underneath:

Start

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

 A field of twelve three-year-olds line up in the second over the short course. Nine of them are on debut whilst three have had a race start. (3) GREAT KHAN is one of those who have previously raced when finishing second on debut behind Heunghaeng Jilju. On that occasion he lined up against some smart two-year-olds over the 1300m when he sat on speed before being run down. He drops back to the 1000m in this assignment and looks one that can lead throughout. (6) RAON HIGH is another that has previously raced. The Musket Man filly finished third on debut over the 1000m. She overcame a wide draw and ran through the line well to finish third. She was beaten over four lengths but with natural improvement she should be considered an each-way chance at her second start. (5) YONGMARU GU trialed fairly and a forward showing on debut would not surprise. The Federalist colt ran 62.9 seconds in his 1000m trial which is comparatively good looking at his competition. (4) NOKRICHONG comes out of the same race as Raon High where she finished seventh. She can improve and collect some minor money.

Selections (3) Great Khan (6) Raon High (5) Yongmaru Gu (4) Nokrichong

Next Best 10, 11

Fast Start 3, 6

 

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

One of the banker favourites of the day goes around here in the shape of (3) UARYUNG. The Testa Matta filly ran a close 2nd on debut at this distance on December 14th in what was a stronger maiden than this. There’s no point in her hanging around here so Song Jae-chul will most likely take her straight to the lead and she will take some beating. (11) NAUI JEONSEOL also showed promise on debut a month ago. That was over 1000M, but he ran on well through the line to finish 3rd and the step up in trip can help him match or build on that today. (2) BEST TAP has hinted at ability across three outings to date and while he was a well-beaten 4th last start, he demonstrated that he can run a time at this distance. (6) ROYAL BLADE improved last time out and steps up to 1300M for the first time having already shown some promise over the 1200M. He can run into some minor money as can (8) J.S. POWER. His 4th last time was in an arguably even weaker affair than today’s, but he seems to be on the right trajectory.

Selections (3) Uaryung (11) Naui Jeonseol (2) Best Tap (6) Royal Blade

Next Best 8, 9

Fast Start 3, 5, 8

 

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

 Several of the runners have claims in the third where a field of twelve Korean-breds line up over the 1300m. (3) AN MOK HANG looks to be one of the main chances that has drawn well for her assignment. The Exploit filly does her best racing when sitting in the leading division, which she did last start when jumping fast from a central drawn and going on to win in this class. She goes up 3.5kg on her last start but one thing’s for sure, if she jumps well, she will look a winning chance at the top of the straight. (11) YEONGGWANGUI BEAT has placed at his two starts this preparation. He lacks early speed but is capable of running home strong. He has drawn awkward once again suggesting punters will be relying on his turn of foot to run in to the money. (12) INDIAN BOSS has the early speed to overcome a wide draw. He has finished third at his past three starts and a win in this type of company would not surprise. (8) FEDERAL KING looks next best and will appreciate stepping back up to the 1300m after a disappointing performance last start when dropped back to the five furlongs.

Selections (3) An Mok Hang (11) Yeonggwangui Beat (12) Indian Boss (8) Federal King

Next Best 6, 1

Fast Start 3, 12

 

Race 4: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

No fewer than four of these are up in class having registered their maiden wins in their respective latest starts. Two of them, (5) LADY KELLY and (6) BIG PLAN did it on debut. Big Plan was the more eye-catching, making all to win by five-lengths, but Lady Kelly was faster and ground out victory in her race by half a length. Both should be more than competitive at this level and both will be on the early speed, with Lady Kelly more favoured at this point. (4) OUR SIMON and (9) CHOEGANGMA are the other two promoted following maiden wins. Choegangma led from gate to wire for an easy score while it was a similar story for Our Simon. It’s hard to choose between the two of them but neither will have such an easy time getting to the front today so the advantage is probably still with Lady Kelly. As for those with prior experience at this level, (3) CHODONG ROSE ran a very good 2nd last start in October and resumes fresh after twelve weeks off while (8) SINBU comes in a class and distance winner for a bang in form stable. Sinbu is another who won’t be able to dictate pace here like he did last time but still warrants respect.

Selections (5) Lady Kelly (4) Our Simon (3) Chodong Rose (8) Sinbu

Next Best 6, 9

Fast Start 3, 4, 5, 6

 

Race 5: Class 4 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

 Winning chances look limited in the fifth with the main players drawn wide. US import (10) BEST GUNHAM looks well suited albeit failing to win a race from his nine starts to date. The chestnut maps well in the event with limited speed engaged. He has posted fast times in his past couple of starts and a similar performance will see him go close in this. (more…)

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

Saturday sees a bumper 13-race card at Seoul runing from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

(단신2) 출발 참관 프로그램 (2)

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

A maiden to kick things off with only two of the twelve having raced more than once. Both will be contenders here as both showed improvement on their respective second appearances. (5) CLAY WINNER ran 2nd on his second appearance at the end of November, well beaten by a very good winner but nonetheless showing he has plenty of ability himself. The Hansen colt is not a natural front-runner but can find a handy position here and finish sternly. (1) RAON BLOOD was a touch more impressive when 3rd on her second start just before Christmas. She will be expected to lead here and is the slight pick to hold on all the way. (4) SONGAM TIZ did absolutely nothing on debut back last September. He was put away after that and looked a completely different horse when returning to win a trial just last week. He made all and assuming he didn’t leave his race back in that trial, he’s well drawn to be on speed here and he can have serious claims. (9) MISS ELITE and (12) GWANGYA SIDAE are others who should be going close.

Selections: (1) Raon Blood (4) Songam Tiz (5) Clay Winner (12) Gwangya Sidae

Next Best: 9, 11

Fast Start: 1, 4, 11

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million 

A field of twelve maiden fillies will line up over the short course in the second. (8) HANSEN CHOICE lines up for her third career start coming off some promising performances. At her first start she lined up in a strong two-year-old event, when settling in the leading division and finishing second. She was slightly disappointing at her second start when finishing fourth, she lost considerable ground when taking the turn for home before running on strong once again. (6) CUPID BISANG is considered a winning chance. The Thunder Moccasin filly finished second to K Top King on debut in a two-year-old event, who has since gone on and saluted again. (2) SHINE FIGHTER lines up for her third start coming off some solid performances. The Rock Hard Ten filly has sat on speed in her runs to date and is drawn well to do so once again. (4) BIG RIVER didn’t appear ready for the 1300m at her second start but handed in a good performance on debut when third over the 1000m.

Selections (8) Hansen Choice (6) Cupid Bisang (2) Shine Fighter (4) Big River

Next Best 12, 3

Fast Start 2, 8

 

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

A weak maiden gives a chance to a number who otherwise wouldn’t look likely to get a win. (9) GOLD FIELD is one of those. She’s been hovering on the verge of a place in recent starts, all of which have been in stronger company than this. She is a front-runner and taking the initiative here may be enough to see her home on top today. (8) FLYING THOR and (10) DONGJJOK GLORY will be two others who challenge for the early lead. Both have hinted at ability across their four starts apiece and both have top jockeys engaged today. (12) THE BEAST has a great name and began his career promisingly enough with back to back 4th place finishes. His latest two at this distance haven’t been great but again, they have been in better races than this and he should improve. (2) A.P. PATEK went back to trial after his last start five weeks ago. He looked much better in his heat and is another who can show more today.

Selections: (9) Gold Field (2) A.P. Patek (12) The Beast (10) Dongjjok Glory

Next Best: 8, 7

Fast Start: 8, 9, 10, 11

 

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

There appears a lack of speed in the fourth event on the card where a field of twelve will line up over the 1300m. (6) SAENAE CHOICE comes out of a set weights two-year-old event where she ran second to Big Plan. Whilst she found one better on the day, she stretched out nicely holding off the remainder of the field. This looks a winnable assignment, with limited speed drawn on the inside off her this will allow Antonio Da Silva to roll forward on the Simon Pure filly. (3) BIANCA has finished in the money at her past few starts and is capable of a forward showing in this event. The Hansen filly is likely to sit just off the speed with a better draw. She was forced to spend too much petrol early on last start. (12) GOSOK PEDAL can improve on his most recent effort. The colt worked forward last start before being run down in the straight. Kim Yong-Geun jumps aboard for the first time, expect a positive ride from an awkward draw. (1) COMPLETE MOTION looks best of the rest and may add some value to your exotics.

Selections (6) Saenae Choice (3) Bianca (12) Gosok Pedal (1) Complete Motion

Next Best 2, 11

Fast Start 3, 6, 12

 

Race 5: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Wide open handicap here and while (9) MONEY CHAMP remains a maiden, he’s been promoted to this class on the back of consecutive runner-up finishes behind good horses. The times he has run in those defeats are likely to be more than competitive at this level and he could well be the one to beat. (1) WONDERFUL HENNESSY comes in fresh here for her first start since September. She’s proven herself a threat at this level with two 3rd place finishes and from the inside gate is likely to be on pace from the start with solid claims to go all the way. (4) WIN BLADE was 5th last start in a better race than this and should go close again while (5) GIVEN RUNNER too has been competing in stiffer company of late and is capable of running the kind of time necessary to win here. (11) CHEONEUN JJANG rounds out the most credible contenders. She led last time over 1300M, weakening late on, and may appreciate the drop back in trip today.

Selections: (9) Money Champ (1) Wonderful Hennessy (4) Win Blade (11) Cheoneun Jjang

Next Best: 5, 2

Fast Start: 1, 3, 4, 11

 

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

There appears plenty of early speed engaged in the sixth on the card. (8) GEUMSUNI STAR has been ultra-consistent of late filling a top four position at his past four starts. He drops back to the 1300m for the first time in August. His record over the 1300m has been good in the past. Lee Hyeon-Jong is promising rider who is likely to urge his mount forward in the early stages. (6) TIZ ROSE is one of those early speedsters who looks to map on speed. She has ran promising races at her past two starts finishing third on both occasions behind some progressive types. With the departure of Masa Tanaka Park Byeong-Yun picks up the ride. (2) CHEONHA YEOJE finished second behind East Jet two starts back and can bounce back after a disappointing performance last start. (1) GLORY VERN showed improvement last time out when finishing second in a time considered good for this grade. Johan Victoire is likely to kick up and use gate one to his advantage. (more…)