Racing Previews

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 17

There are 11 Saturday races at Seoul from 14:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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It’s an afternoon and evening card at Seoul on Saturday

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(11) CHEONHA YEOJE was a beaten favourite last start but gets another chance here. Despite the wide draw she’ll be expected to be on pace from the start and she can lead all the way. (5) SMART GUNHWANG has run 3rd in both his two stats so far, both of them at this distance and looks set to be the main danger. Those two look head and shoulders above the rest although (1) HAWK ARIRANG has shown glimpses of ability and may go close while (7) TOUGH GREAT and (9) CHOEGANG SINGI are others with potential to improve.

Selections (11) Cheonha Yeoje (5) Smart Gunhwang (7) Tough Great (1) Hawk Arirang
Next Best 9, 2
Fast Start 5, 11

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with only two of the eight having raced before. And those two will be at the head of the betting market and expected to dispute the honours. (3) MENI HERO beat (1) MENI CHAMP when they debuted together on July 14th over this distance. Meni Hero was a good 3rd clear of Meni Champ’s 5th and they should finish in the same order here, only filling out the top two spots this time. Among the debut-makers, (5) SEN KING and (6) LUCKY SANGUN were the quickest in trials and can go well first-up. (2) HEUNGHAENG JILJU also performed creditably in his heat and looks next best.

Selections (3) Meni Hero (1) Meni Champ (5) Sen King (6) Lucky Sangun
Next Best 2
Fast Start 1, 3

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

The second lot of juvenile maidens once more features just two who have prior racing experience. This time, however, while (1) P.K. DOLPUNG and (6) WONDERFUL HEART will certainly be expected to improve on their respective first starts, it’s the debut-makers who will be favoured. (8) BAEKJEUI KKUM won his trial and with Alan Munro getting the ride, he looks to have an excellent chance of making a winning start. (2) LUCKY MYEONGHO may be the main danger. He didn’t win his trial, but ran 2nd to a seasoned class 1 horse (Cheonjiga) and while that may have made the time quicker than usual, he didn’t look out of place. Also quick in trials, albeit on a wet track, was (3) SAMJEONG TAPAS and he too is likely to be well-supported here.

Selections (8) Baekjeui Kkum (2) Lucky Myeongho (3) Samjeong Tapas (1) P.K. Dolpung
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 2, 5

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

Eleven imported juveniles get the chance to race for a big prize here with only two having raced before. Of those two, (4) KENTUCKY MANGCHI perhaps has the better chance of improving from an underwhelming debut. The winner though is likely to come from the first-timers and (5) D K PURMIR looks set to be favourite having recorded the fastest trial time. He led for much of that het and is nicely drawn to get on pace here. (6) BLACK PUNCH won his trial and the Palace Malice gelding will also be looking to get to the front early and should go well first-up here. (2) SLEEP WELL is another trial winner who may be considered while (3) CHUKBOKUI YAKSOK looks best of the rest. As ever with this type of race, watch the local market for additional clues.

Selections (5) D K Purmir (6) Black Punch (2) Sleep Well (4) Kentucky Mangchi
Next Best 3, 10
Fast Start 2, 5

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

More maidens although this time it’s not restricted to juveniles. (3) KKOKKOMA LADY comes in off the back of consecutive 4th place finishes, both at this distance. Both those races were slow, and she may not have enough improvement in her to win this, but she can place. (1) SUNSHINE TEUKGEUP ran 5th behind Kkokkoma Lady last start. That was her first try at the distance and she looks to have scope for more development. She’s the slight pick. (6) SUPER VICTOR ran a creditable 5th place on her first try at the distance last month and can build on it today while (2) DAEGIRI and (5) RECOVERY TAP are others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections (1) Sunshine Teukgeup (6) Super Victor (2) Daegiri (3) Kkokkoma Lady
Next Best 5
Fast Start 1, 2

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

(7) P.K. JEONSA steps up in class having got his maiden win at the eighth attempt over 1200M a month ago. This is a step up in quality, but he should be competitive and can win again. (5) WONDERFUL MARIA is better than her two latest outings suggest, and she should be improving here, having previously won at this distance. (4) MIRACLE HOPE (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 16)

Graded Stakes action returns to Korea this Sunday with the running of the KNN Cup (KOR G3), the second leg of the Queens’ Tour, at Busan where Silver Wolf will be the star attraction and hot favourite. Before that, however, the weekend’s racing gets underway with a nine-race Friday program  on the South Coast from 14:55 to 21:00:

Busan Racecourse winning line

It’s Friday. It’s Busan

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(6) PARADISE KING has run 3rd in both starts so far, the latest at this distance. His times haven’t been anything special, but he looks to have potential for improvement and is the one to beat here. (11) HIDDEN BOY is clear second choice. He disappointed slightly last time when well supported but has a couple of decent showings to his name over this distance and while he’ll need to overcome the wide draw to get forward, should be a factor. (5) TAMNA LIST was a little under par last start but has had over two months off since then and returns here with claims to go closer. (4) MYEONGGA DAERO and (9) USEUNG JIKIMI, the latter a big improver last time, are others with placing claims.

Selections (6) Paradise King (11) Hidden Boy (5) Tamna List (4) Myeongga Daero
Next Best 9, 1
Fast Start 6, 9, 11

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with only five of the twelve having raced before. There were high hopes of (3) YEONGCHEON JILJU when he debuted at the end of June. He’s a half-brother to a Korean Derby winner and a handful of other talented race winners and had trialled up well. While he only managed to finish 6th that day, weakening late on, he should have come on for the run and be given another chance here. Conversely, little was expected of (2) FINAL DREAM on his first go in July but he defied odds in excess of 120/1 to come home 2nd and he needs to be taken seriously today. (1) DAEJI JARANG was solid enough first-up too and can improve here. Of the debut-makers, (11) CENTUM BEONGAE was fastest in trials and can go well here while (9) HANSEN MULGYEOL is another that catches the eye.

Selections (3) Yeongcheon Jilju (11) Centum Beongae (2) Final Dream (1) Daeji Jarang
Next Best 9, 8
Fast Start 2, 3, 11

Race 3: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) NAEGA SAEGANGJA came close to making all over 1200M when up against some useful types over 1200M on July 12th. He drops back to the minimum distance today and from a good draw, can get on pace early again and stay on this time. Main danger is (12) GOOD TREND, whose latest form does indeed indicate a good trend. He ran a good 2nd over the distance last time on a sloppy track and another runner-up finish should be a minimum requirement here. (1) MACH RANGER ran well last time for a slightly unexpected 2nd and can place again here. He’ll have competition for that from the likes of (8) JIGURYEOK PALPAL, who was 3rd behind Good Trend last time out, and (9) TIME TOGETHER, up in class following a maiden win at the distance on July 26th and who should be competitive at this level.

Selections (4) Naega Saegangja (12) Good Trend (9) Time Together (8) Jiguryeok Palpal
Next Best 1, 6
Fast Start 4, 6, 12

Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Small field of weak maidens and a very tricky puzzle. We’ll go with (5) CASTEL CORE, who stepped up to this distance for the first time last start and ran a decent 4th in a creditable time on a sloppy track. He could be the one who has the most potential for improvement in him. (1) GASOK BULKKOT was much improved at this distance last time and looks to be the main danger. He’ll go back at the start but will plod on and should pass plenty. (6) LISTEN TO ME is another who has put in a decent time at the distance – albeit on a wet and fast track – and can place here. (7) TWO TWO HAMMER and unknown quantity (8) SIMON DREAM are others who could compete for minor money.

Selections (5) Castel Core (1) Gasok Bulkkot (6) Listen To Me (8) Simon Dream
Next Best 7, 4
Fast Start 5, 7

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

Very even looking race here with a number looking to have similar chances. (12) SEONGSAN POWER was a winner over a mile in a very fast time (even bearing in mind the conditions) on July 19th. She carries an additional 3kg today but drops back in trip and despite the wide draw, should be firmly in the hunt for another win. Speaking of fast times, (2) GAMDONGUI SUNGAN achieved that when 4th at this distance the same day. That came on the back of a 2nd place in more ordinary conditions in June and he should be a factor today. (1) ANY GOOD DAY has finished no worse than 4th in five starts so far and still looks to be on a upward trajectory. (5) DARK TEMPLAR and (9) ETERNAL TRON both come in after 2nd place finishes on their respective latest starts and both have claims on another place today.

Selections (12) Seongsan Power (1) Any Good Day (2) Gamdongui Sungan (9) Eternal Tron
Next Best 5, 3
Fast Start 1, 2, 4, 12

Race 6: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(12) HANSEN DREAM looked an outstanding prospect when winning his first two outings in dismissive fashion. He found himself rapidly up in class and also in distance to 1400M (more…)

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 11)

Sunday sees a bumper 15-race daytime card at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(9) AN MOK HANG was beaten when favourite on her latest start four weeks ago. That was against considerably better opposition than she faces today though and her previous runs suggest she has every chance here. (8) CHEONEUN JJANG comes in after a useful 3rd place last time out and looks to be one of the main dangers although (1) SEUNGNI JEONSEOL has also proven capable of running competitive times – she was found to have been slightly lame after her latest run and has had seven weeks off. If (10) SEOUL MAGIC can get a good start from the wide draw, he has placing claims too. There are two debut makers and of them, (4) JEONGMUN LASER put in a handy performance in his trial.

Selections (9) An Mok Hang (8) Cheoneun Jjang (4) Jeongmun Laser (1) Seungni Jeonseol
Next Best 10, 12
Fast Start 1, 9, 10

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(7) MENI STAND returned from seven months out to run 3rd at thus distance on July 20th. She shifted in at the start that day and lost quite a bit of ground, only really making it up in the final furlong. If she gets a better start and gives herself more of a chance here, then she can win. (5) RAON JOY enters off the back of a pair of 3rd place finishes and can aim to match or even better those today while (1) NONGBUI SUCHEAHWA is another who had a hard time coming out of the gate on what was her debut six weeks ago but then ran on well. She should have come on for that and can improve here. (4) STORM FORCE and (12) FAMILY PARK are others in the frame.

Selections (7) Meni Stand (5) Raon Joy (1) Nongbui Sucheahwa (4) Storm Force
Next Best 12, 11
Fast Start 1, 5, 8, 12

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with only four of the twelve having raced before. One of those is set to be favourite though. (4) STRONG QUEEN was very slow to begin on debut from a wide draw but ran on very nicely to claim 5th. She’s much better drawn today and looks the one to beat. (2) WONDER PLACE debuted in the same race and while she came home 9th, Moon Se Young being aboard today will interest some. As for the other chances, it’s likely to be the first-timer starters. (8) DANGCHAN BARAM looks the best of them, having won her trial in a good time, beating a couple of these along the way. (7) RAON TOUGH MAN was also a trial winner and while his time was a little slower, can be considered first up too. (9) QUIET ADELE, 3rd in a trial behind Dangchan Baram, looks best of the rest.

Selections (4) Strong Queen (8) Dangchan Baram (7) Raon Tough Man (2) Wonder Place
Next Best 9, 6
Fast Start 1, 6, 8, 11

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

After an inauspicious debut in February, (7) KINGS CARRIAGE has put in two consecutive 3rd place finishes. He should be on the early speed today and has an excellent chance of improving further and making the breakthrough. (9) DIAVOLA finished behind King’s Carriage back in June but has since picked up a 3rd place of her own over 1200M four weeks ago. She can be a big danger here. Those two look head and shoulders above the rest although (4) CHEONNYEONUI GODO has hinted at ability and may compete for a place along with (6) WONDERFUL HEELS and (12) CHOEGANG CAMP, the latter making just her second start having looked useful in recent trials.

Selections (7) Kings Carriage (9) Diavola (12) Cheogang Camp (4) Cheonnyeonui Godo
Next Best 6, 1
Fast Start 3, 7, 8, 11

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

(2) GABO PULL QUEEN missed the break by a length or so when favourite over 1200M on July 13th and while without that she may still not have won, it certainly didn’t help her as she ended up running out 4th. She has a 2nd place to her name at class and distance though and she can be expected to go much closer today. Moon Se Young rides her for the second time, with the first having been her solitary victory. (1) CAMP BADA and (5) GEUM ROYAL came home 4th and 5th behind Gabo Pull Queen back in June and both have proven competitive at this level, as has (6) PRIME QUEEN. The three of those look likely to pose the biggest potential threats to the favourite although (3) NONSTOP FLYING is another who can go close.

Selections (2) Gabo Pull Queen (6) Prime Queen (5) Geum Royal (3) Nonstop Flying
Next Best 1, 7
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 7

Race 6: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) FLYING BULLET comes in here seeking her third consecutive victory having made all in her latest two, both over this distance and the latter at this class. She does carry 4kg more than last time but has potential for another win here. (5) FEDERAL CAT and (6) BAEKSANG came home 3rd and 4th respectively with just a length between them when they raced each other over class and distance on July 13th and both should be in at least the placing hunt once again. (2) DAEHAN ILPUM was just beaten a neck mat class and distance last start and can be respected here. (1) BULUI QUEEN remains a maiden after six attempts but is rarely too far away and drops back in trip following a creditable 5th over 1700M last time.

Selections (4) Flying Bullet (6) Baeksang (5) Federal Cat (1) Bului Queen
Next Best 2, 8
Fast Start 2, 4, 6, 8

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

(8) DAEGUNUI GEOM returned from three months off to just get pipped by a nose in a good race at class and distance on June 15th. He had two of these behind him that day and following another eight weeks off, he looks ready to win. (5) LIL’ PATRON was one of those he beat that day and he looks to have potential for further development. He also runs for the first time since. (1) ENDURANCE was an also-ran in the Korean Derby this year and has finished 2nd in both subsequent starts. He’s up in class today but should be on pace and is likely to aim to be on pace. (4) BULGULUI RUNNER was an improved 3rd on what was just his second start in July and he can maintain his progress here. (6) CLEAN UP HERO returned to some kind of form with a 3rd place last time and can aim for the minor money again.

Selections (8) Daegunui Geom (1) Endurance (5) Lil’ Patron (4) Bulgului Runner
Next Best 6, 2
Fast Start 1, 2, 5, 8

Race 8: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

After a strong of near-misses, it’s about time (2) HOPE KINGDOM made the breakthrough and actually won a race. In two goes at this trip, he’s been beaten a nose the first time and then by three-quarters of a length the second. He can sit behind the early speed here and finish strongly. (11) ROYAL SMARTY is another who has taken to this distance well having run 2rd in his first try at it on July 14th. He’ll be a danger as will (4) TO THE VICTORY, who attempts two turns for the first time but could well get a soft early lead here and if he sees out the trip, could pull off a surprise. (7) INDIAN BOSS and (9) SUN QUEEN are others in the placing frame.

Selections (2) Hope Kingdom (11) Royal Smarty (4) To The Victory (7) Indian Boss
Next Best 9, 10
Fast Start 4

Race 9: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(9) ALIBABA MARINE was just beaten a nose over 1200M on June 23rd, having run 3rd the time before that. He steps up to two-turns for the first time today and it could be exactly what he needs to make the breakthrough. (1) DAE BYEONHWA has plenty of experience at this distance including a very good 2nd place last time. From the inside gate, he’ll be on pace from the start and should be a danger at the business end. (2) MAENGJU has been inconsistent over eight outings so far but has ability at this distance and can be in line for a place. (5) DONGBANG JIJON and (11) SPEED YEONGUNG are others who can be taken (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 10)

After a week off, racing returns to the capital on Saturday with 11-races from 14:25 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

RH7_1841

Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A maiden to kick things off and a few of them come in off the back of promising performances. (2) SINGSING JANGSU has a 2nd and a 3rd from two starts to date over 1000M and 1200M and the slight step up in trip today may be what he needs to make the breakthrough. He ran through the line well last start and can come from off the pace here. (3) MACH THUNDER was a much improved 2nd last time out on July 13th, beating (7) EAGLE EYE into 3rd. Both of those have claims here. (10) CHEONJI AEGA also took to this distance well on her second career start last month – this is a tougher race, but she should be a factor. (11) PUNGMUNEURO has been plodding around at this level for a long time now but can pick some minor money in this company.

Selections (2) Singsing Jangsu (7) Eagle Eye (3) Mach Thunder (10) Cheonji Aega
Next Best 11, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 5

Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A last start class and distance winner, (11) SUHO carries an extra 3kg today but still looks nicely enough in to follow-up. He’ll have to overcome the widest draw but that’s exactly what he did last time and he can repeat. (10) CHEONJI POKPUNG is up in class having registered his maiden win by a cool five-lengths at this distance a month ago. Today’s company is stiffer but he should be competitive. (4) WIND RIVER had an erratic trip on his first try at this level last month and can improve today while (9) EX BLADE was found to have been lame after his latest disappointing outing back in May. He’s had eleven weeks off since and should go better here. (3) MISSILE CANDY looks best of the rest.

Selections (11) Suho (10) Cheonji Pokpung (9) Ex Blade (4) Wind River
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 3, 7, 11

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with only five of the twelve having raced before. Of those, (5) COMPLETE KINGDOM was by some margin the most impressive, running 2nd at this distance on July 7th, beating two of these in the process. He should be on pace from the start and can lead all the way. (8) MONEY CHAMP was 4th in that race, a full eleven-lengths in arrears but looks to have scope for improvement here. (2) MASEONG TUHON was also 4th on her debut back in June and looks to have some potential too. Among the first time starters, (7) GEUMA FLAWLESS was the most eye-catching in trials and should go well first up. (3) WINNER BLUE also put in a tidy qualification run.

Selections (5) Complete Kingdom (2) Maseong Tuhon (7) Geuma Flawless (8) Money Champ
Next Best 3, 1
Fast Start 2, 4, 5, 7

Race 4: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) WINNER CROWN led almost from gate to wire, ultimately getting nudged into 2nd in a similarly good race on June 22nd. He’s well drawn to get on pace again and this time can lead all the way. He’ll be joined on pace early by main danger (7) JEONGSANG STAR, who is up in class following a five-length maiden score over this distance four weeks ago and looks to have scope for more development. (1) HWARYONG was slow to begin and then raced very ungenerously on his latest appearance behind Winner Crown in June. He got sent back to trial, ultimately having to go through three of them before being cleared for racing again. He won all three of those trials though and if he behaves himself, should go well here. (5) ROYAL SHALOM and (6) MACH TANSAENG are others in the hunt.

Selections (2) Winner Crown (7) Jeongsang Star (1) Hwaryong (5) Royal Shalom
Next Best 8
Fast Start 2, 7

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

(2) SAGWARANG returns to action for the first time in just under a year. She was developing into a classy filly before her layoff with two wins from four and looked in good touch when trialing this June. This isn’t the easiest race but she can make a winning comeback today. (7) D K NARIN came close to making all over this distance a month ago, ultimately ending in 2nd and a win looks to be in his near future. (8) CUPID GUY already has a victory to his name and while he was a little bit ordinary on his latest start, can come into consideration. (4) GULCHARMNAMUSUP and (5) PHOENIX WOLF are others who can go close.

Selections (2) Sagwarang (7) D K Narin (4) Gulcharmnamusup (8) Cupid Guy
Next Best 5, 6
Fast Start 2, 6, 9, 12

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

(1) NALARA HLL’s maiden win had been coming and she secured it with a six-length victory over this distance on July 7th. She is accordingly up in class today but if she gets to the front early, should have too much. (5) HUIMANG STAR is a twenty-race maiden but has been no worse than 4th in each of her latest five outings and should go close again. (6) TAEPUNG EYES and (7) CHEON GOE SEONG similarly come in with recent form reading well and have placing claims while (2) GLORY VERN looks best of the rest.

Selections (1) Nalara Hill (5) Huimang Star (6) Taepung Eyes (7) Cheon Goe Seong
Next Best 2, 4
Fast Start 1, 7

Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Four of these raced each other over class and distance on July 7th with (5) POP STREET coming out the best of them in 2nd place. He’s nicely drawn to get on pace today and should go close again. The worst of the four that day was pre-race favourite (2) SWEETLY HUMOR. He pulled hard in the middle part of the race before offering little at the business end, finishing well back in 6th, however, his previous form makes him worthy of another chance here. (1) SKY STORM was a little bit cold in spring but returned to form with a good 2nd at class and distance on June 2nd. (6) GAL IP and (10) UDAERYUNG are others in with a chance of at least a place.

Selections (1) Sky Storm (5) Pop Street (2) Sweetly Humor (6) Gal Ip
Next Best 10, 8
Fast Start 4, 5, 11

Race 8: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A good winner on debut in May, (4) MYEONGWANG ran 2nd on his first try at this class at the very end of June. He did though suffer quite a heavy bump at the start which cost him momentum and if he gets away cleanly this time, could quite easily lead all the way. (5) VALLEY QUEEN was an impressive maiden winner last start and while up in class today, looks to be the main danger. (10) HAE WANG beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at class and distance a month ago. He remains a maiden but looks to have placing chances again here. (1) HIGH BEAT and (6) GEUMBIT YEOLJEONG are others in the hunt.

Selections (4) Myeongwang (5) Valley Queen (10) Hae Wang (1) High Beat
Next Best 6, 3
Fast Start 3, 4, 5, 6

Race 9: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

After running 4th in her first two outings last autumn, (11) CHODONG BOBAE returned to action in April and has subsequently won three in a row. Her latest victory saw her defeat the talented Dokdo Ya at this class over 1300M a month ago. She carries a little bit more weight today but looks like she has plenty more wins in her. (9) MY SISTER NINA has proved versatile if inconsistent over five outings so far but her good performances have been very good. She just missed out by a nose over 1000M last start and can be a real danger here. (4) MUNHAKUI JEONSA has been solid across four starts to date and should be on pace early with a view to hanging on for a place. (6) AMERICAN FORCE ONE and (12) MANHATTAN MUSIC can also be taken into consideration.

Selections (11) Chodong Bobae (9) My Sister Nina (4) Munhakui Jeonsa (12) Manhattan Music
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 4, 7, 11

Race 10: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(4) MUNHAK TIGER maybe be developing a liking for finishing 2nd, with three runner-up finishes to a solitary win, but it’s the latter column that should be boosted here. From gate 4, he’ll be making the early pace and could be hard to beat. If he does fall short, (7) SOL PARANG could be one to take advantage. He beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd at class and distance last start and can finish well from off the pace here. (6) WILD FIGHT also enters in solid form with a good 3rd over 1400M last time and should be in at least the placing frame again. (1) MONTEVIDEO and (3) FLYING BOSS are not without claims either.

Selections (4) Munhak Tiger (7) Sol Parang (6) Wild Fight (1) Montevideo
Next Best 3
Fast Start 1, 4, 5, 6

Race 11: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(1) MUNHAK ARIARI came up slightly short when favourite for a similar class and distance affair last month, ultimately finishing 4th. It wasn’t a bad run though and having drawn the inside gate today, looks set to be a justifiable favourite once more. (8) EMPIRE KINGDOM should benefit from the drop back in trip today and should be one of the main dangers while (5) KWAEHAN YEBONGSAN was a little bit ordinary in good company last start but is a class and distance winner already and must be respected. (7) UP LIGHT, up in class and back in trip, and (9) EAGLES GRIFTER are others to take into account.

Selections (1) Munhak Ariari (8) Empire Kingdom (5) Kwaehan Yebongsan (7) Up Light
Next Best 9, 2
Fast Start 1, 5, 9

 

Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 4)

Busan will take next weekend off and they’ll certainly have earned it as they go out with a bumper 15-race card on Sunday with races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Racecourse

Busan Sunday

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A very ordinary maiden to kick things off. (4) TOHAM IMPACT has in no way impressed across her five starts to date but she has managed a 2nd and a 3rd in that time, which is considerably more than any of her rivals have done. She won’t need to improve very much to win this and that will be reflected in her odds. (2) CHEONGPUNG NANHYANG managed a best of 5th in four starts before a layoff that commenced in March. She looked good though when trialing up in mid-July and is a place contender first-up today. Similarly, (7) B.K. VICTOR returns for the first time since last December and served up a promising trial. (8) RAINBOW PARK and (10) HUIMANG SOYEO are perhaps the best of a weak rest.

Selections (4) Toham Impact (2) Cheongpung Nanhyang (7) B.K. Victor (8) Rainbow Park
Next Best 10, 12
Fast Start 2, 6, 7, 10

Race 2: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Small but competitive field. (4) ROYAL SOLDIER was a very fast winner in the slop at this distance two weeks ago and while he steps up in class today, there seems little reason to oppose him. From a nice draw, he should be on pace early and lead all the way. (7) HUNTER PARK remains a maiden but has no fewer than nine top-five finishes from thirteen prior outings. He probably won’t win this either but can go close again. (2) BAEJJANG drops back in trip today having run 6th last start. He triumphed at class and distance in June and can place here. (1) SECHAGE ran 4th last time and can aim to match or better today.

Selections (4) Royal Soldier (7) Hunter Park (2) Baejjang (1) Sechage
Next Best 6
Fast Start 2, 4

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(4) SUN MOUNTAIN comes in off back to back 3rd place finishes, both at class and distance. He comes from off the pace and while he needs to be careful not to leave himself too much to do again, today could be his day. (3) HWARANGUICHAMPION offered some promise in two starts earlier this year. He returns following four months off and looked reasonably sharp when trialing up in July and comes straight into consideration here. The one they need to beat though is (7) CHEONNYEONUI ULRIM. He was a much-improved 2nd at this distance last time out a month ago and can build on that today. (5) WONDERFUL CITY and (8) CHARGE POWER are others in the placing frame.

Selections (4) Sun Mountain (7) Cheonnyeonui Ulrim (3) Hwaranguichampion (5) Wonderful City
Next Best 8, 6
Fast Start 7, 8

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with seven of the nine having raced once each before. The best of those was (8) MARK ONE, who ran 2nd on debut on July 5th. The winner of that race, Top Day, went on to score again last week and it should be Mark One’s turn today. (2) HANSEN FLASHY also ran well for 4th on her debut back at the end of June and she can build on that today while (6) BLUE POWER did nothing wrong either, finishing 6th but only two-lengths behind the winner on his first try. Expect a fast start from him here. (1) WAKANDA and (3) YEONGGWANGUI PARK are others with the potential to get better.

Selections (8) Mark One (2) Hansen Flashy (6) Blue Power (1) Wakanda
Next Best 1, 3
Fast Start 6, 8, 9

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

(10) MAGIC FLYING ran out a class and distance winner on June 30th, with a front-running performance. He only carries slightly more weight today and could well repeat. Fifty-five race maiden (4) ONNURI GANGJA has somehow managed to register five runner-up finishes from his latest six starts and no worse than 5th in his most recent ten. He could actually win this but either way he looks at the very least as though he’s set to continue his remarkable run of near-misses. Another maiden, but with far fewer miles on the clock, is (3) ROYAL TICKET. All four of his previous tries at this distance have gone well and he should be in the mix here. (7) EL DRAGON has struggled on wet tracks when well-backed in her latest two but could improve today.

Selections (10) Magic Flying (4) Onnuri Gangja (3) Royal Ticket (7) El Dragon
Next Best 6, 8
Fast Start 2, 7

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

(2) MENI QUEEN ran out a good winner, making all over this distance on debut on July 12th. She is up in class today but looks to have plenty of potential for more and from a nice draw, she can repeat. (8) TOHAM STAR looks a big danger though. Having got his maiden win at this distance at the end of June, he ran 2nd over this trip on a sloppy track two weeks ago and looks nicely in to go very close today. (3) WONDERFUL TALE came up short on her first try at this class a month ago. While her May win came over 1000M, she has a 3rd place to her name at this distance and can be given another chance here. (1) GOLDEN SHARP and (7) TRUE SIGNATURE are others in the hunt.

Selections (8) Toham Star (2) Meni Queen (3) Wonderful Tale (1) Golden Sharp
Next Best 7, 9
Fast Start 2, 3, 7, 8

Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) NEW QUEEN remains a maiden after fourteen attempts but enters here with a 3rd and two runner-up finishes from her latest three outings. She should be close to the early pace today and looks sure to be close once more. She may well again find one or two too quick though. (5) TIZ JOYFUL ran a slightly disappointing 6th when not allowed things (more…)

Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 3) – You Hyun Myung Chases 1,000 Winners/Seo Seung-un Suspended 3 Months

With Seoul taking its annual one-week summer break, it makes for a rare Saturday card at Busan. There are 8 races on a twilight card from 16:30 to 21:00.

KYK

Jockey You Hyung Myung could break the 1000-winner barrier this weekend

Jockey You Hyun Myung begins the weekend on 996 career winners and with fifteen rides across Saturday and Sunday, many of them fancied, looks likely to break the 1,000 winner barrier at some point over the weekend.

It’s less good news for another of Busan’s top jockeys though. Seo Seung-un was suspended for three calendar months last Sunday upon the conclusion of an adjourned inquiry into his ride on Mujeok Veteran in race 4 on Sunday July 21st. Mujeok Veteran, a 9/1 chance, was leading when Seo stopped riding at the furlong pole, not noticing that Nangman Jeonsa was directly behind him and closing fast.

Seo Seung Un Glitter

We’ll not see Seo Seung-un in the saddle until November following his mistake 2 weeks ago

Upon discovering the threat, Seo recommenced riding 50 metres from the line but it was too late and Nangman Jeonsa won by a nose. It’s proven to be a costly mistake.

Here are Saturday’s previews:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Competitive maiden to open proceedings with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) THUNDER BAY has been steadily improving across five starts to date culminating in a 2nd place last time out over 1300M. He drops back in trip today and could go one better. He isn’t a fast starter though so he has to be careful not to leave himself too much to do. If he does, then (9) STOLEN BEAUTY is likely to be on pace and can take advantage. She weakened badly over 1300M last start but should be much better at the shorter trip today. Other than that pair it’s the debut-makers who look most dangerous. Both (1) HANEOL BULPAE and (10) BIG PICTURE put in useful trial performances and should go well first-up.

Selections (9) Stolen Beauty (4) Thunder Bay (10) Big Picture (1) Haneol Bulpae
Next Best 8, 3
Fast Start 8, 9, 10, 12

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with precisely half the ten-strong field having raced once before. The most impressive of those was (6) YEONGWON DYNAMO, who ran 3rd on debut, beating to of the others here in the process on July 5th. He won’t need to improve much if he is to win this. (7) CAPTAIN STEALTH was 4th in that race, three-lengths adrift of Yeongwon Dynamo and he has potential to get closer here while (1) YEONGSEONG BRAVO was further back but likewise should have come on for the run. Among the debut-makers, (4) YEONGGWANGUI START has looked competent over the course of two trials and has every chance of making a positive impact first-up today.

Selections (6) Yeongwon Dynamo (7) Captain Stealth (4) Yeonggwangui Start (1) Yeongseong Bravo
Next Best 9, 3
Fast Start 4, 5, 6, 8

Race3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(9) TWO TWO CAPTAIN has been knocking on the door for a while now and comes in off the back of three decent showings over this distance. The caliber of opposition he faces today looks significantly weaker and he should finally get that maiden win. (1) ANGEL KING STAR steps up in trip after a solid 3rd over 1300M last time out and looks set to benefit from the additional distance today while (8) JILJU YEOHAENG ran indifferently last time she was tired at a mile but returns after a useful 3rd, also at 1300M, three weeks ago and can go better this time. (3) SEOBU GENTLEMAN and (6) HORTENSE are others with the potential to improve.

Selections (9) Two Two Captain (1) Angel King Star (8) Jilju Yeohaeng (3) Seobu Gentleman
Next Best 6, 4
Fast Start 3, 8, 9

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

(11) THE FACT was the longest but one shot on the board when getting his maiden win at the fifteenth time of asking just two weeks ago. Normally, we’d be a little bit skeptical of such an outsider repeating the trick right away but he’s not up much in the weights and if anything, faces a weaker set of rivals today. He could win. (4) NEOLBEUN GOEUL returned from six months off to record his maiden win over 1000M in June. He never got going on his first try at this class last month but with a better start today, can be given another chance. (6) THUNDER STRUCK was 5th behind The Fact last start and can get closer today while (8) ONE CHANCE and (9) MAJOR POWER both come in with recent form reading well and can be considered.

Selections (11) The Fact (4) Neolbeun Goeul (6) Thunder Struck (8) One Chance
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 2, 4, 8

Race 5: Class 4 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

It’s about time (1) CURLIN FANTASY got his maiden win. He had a hard time against stiff opposition at 1800M last start but looks to be in a more suitable spot here. Last time he ran at this distance he was 2nd and can come from off the pace with a strong late run here. (8) EAST WIND has also produced some decent performances at this distance and can be a danger while (3) TAP SOCKS showed signs of life on his latest outing with a solid 5th over 1300M and looks ready to try further once more. (4) KARIN won back to back races in May and June, both at this trip and while she struggled on her first try at this level four weeks ago, she can be given another chance under a light weight and with an (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 27)

With no racing on Jeju this weekend (Seoul is off next week), there is a huge 15-race card at Seoul on Saturday running from 14:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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Seoul nights with an angry monsoon sky are something to behold

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(1) HANEUL GONGWON ran a solid 3rd on debut on June 22nd, finishing just a length behind the winner. It was an encouraging start and she won’t need to improve too much to win here. (6) JAENEUNG CHUNGMAN improved to 2nd on her latest start over 1300M. She drops back in trip today and should be firmly in contention. (8) YULONG FLYING put in a couple of promising performances in May and early June. He’s subsequently been back to trial which he came through in competent enough fashion. (4) ACE WIN and (7) GOLDEN ANGLE, the latter of whom may be the early leader – and struggled in the kickback when he didn’t last time – are others to consider.

Selections (1) Haneul Gongwon (8) Yulong Flying (6) Jaeneung Chungman (7) Golden Angle
Next Best 4, 5
Fast Start 7, 10, 11

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Not the strongest of maidens this so we’ll be looking for something to step up. (7) GOLD HERO ran 3rd on debut on an all-filly affair on June 30th and so naturally draws the eye. The time was slow though and others may be favoured. (6) SAMAE JILJU has shown some ability with a 3rd and a couple of 4th place finishes. She got a bad bump at the start last time and later was found to have bled. Accordingly, she went back to trial and went well. (9) SEONGPAJANG too had excuses last time in that she was found to be slightly lame. Back fully fit she should go much better today. (1) GOLDEN SPARK has been no better than average so far but has arguably been racing in better company so may improve. (2) USEUNG MACHA drops back in trip and can also be considered.

Selections (9) Seongpajang (6) Samae Jilju (7) Gold Hero (1) Golden Spark
Next Best 2, 5
Fast Start 1, 2, 10, 11

Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the ten having raced once before. Of those, (6) K N ROAD is set to be strong favourite here. He ran a decent 3rd on debut on June 15th and while he was a good seven-lengths behind the winner, it was a useful time and he should have come on for the run. (4) JEONGSEONG STAR didn’t do herself any favours on debut when hanging out in the home straight but does look the most credible danger here. Otherwise it’s the first time starters we need to look out and of those, trial winner (7) RUFFIAN PARK looks the most likely, along with (1) ILBO DEUNGCHEON and (9) RAIN K.

Selections (6) K N Road (4) Jeongseong Star (1) Ilbo Deungcheon (9) Rain K
Next Best 7, 8, 3
Fast Start 4, 7, 8, 9

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Another set of average maidens. (5) GWACHEONUI BYEOL beat (1) RECENT DREAM as the pair came home 2nd and 3rd in a similarly weak affair over the same distance on July 7th. It was an uptick in form for both and they can keep it going here with Gwacheonui Byeol again favoured to come out on top. After a couple of promising trials, (10) WINNER TEMPLAR didn’t do a lot on debut at the end of June but should have come on for the run and can improve today. Similarly, (2) TRUE RUBY underwhelmed on her first star but can build on it here. (3) HWANGGEUM STAR the best of a limited rest.

Selections (5) Gwacheonui Byeol (1) Recent Dream (10) Winner Templar (2) True Ruby
Next Best 3, 8
Fast Start 5, 6, 7, 9

Race 5: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Two and three-year-old maidens and a big prize on the line with just three of them having run before. (12) MYEONGJIN FLY ran a strong 2nd on debut on June 22nd. He was beaten five-lengths by a good winner (King’s Step) but it was promising nonetheless and he looks the one to beat here, even though he will have to overcome the widest draw to get to the front. (11) BRIGADIER GENERAL ran 3rd in that same race just over two-lengths in arrears of Myeongjin Fly. He too has drawn wide but he looks to be the most significant threat. As for the first-timers, (3) MOVIECUS caught the eye when winning a trial just two weeks ago and looks set to go well first up. (6) MUNHAK BOSS also won his heat and can be dangerous. (9) GAYA YEONGBONG best of the rest.

Selections (12) Myeongjin Fly (11) Brigadier General (3) Moviecus (6) Munhak Boss
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 3, 6, 11, 12

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

Since getting her maiden win in December, (1) INDY LADY has been knocking on the door of a repeat with some very respectable recent results almost all of which were in better company than this. That includes her latest 5th place when she led for much of the race. From the inside gate she can get to the front here and should win. (2) CHAMP K got his maiden victory at this distance in April and ran a solid 5th on his first try at this class in May. Granted there were only eight runners but the margins were narrow and he comes in off twelve weeks’ rest with strong placing chances. (3) BLESSING ROAD showed signs of a return to form on his latest outing and should be close to a place here. (7) NAE GIRUI BIT and (8) P.K. GUNHWANG are both up in class following maiden wins at this distance and both should be competitive at this level too.

Selections (1) Indy Lady (8) P.K. Gunhwang (2) Champ K (3) Blessing Road
Next Best 7, 10
Fast Start 1, 2, 3

Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Since being promoted to this level following a win back in March, (7) GENERAL ROSE has registered three consecutive 4th place finishes. It’s time for her to step and she can do that today, likely leading from the start. It won’t be easy though. (1) RAON PATRICK will be on pace too and while she is up in distance for the first time, she looks ready for it and will be a threat. (5) M J PARTY and (4) INDIAN ECO came home 3rd and 4th when they raced each other on June 30th at this distance and both can go close once more. (11) HANSEN BAROWS got a poor trip last time and can go better today.

Selections (7) General Rose (1) Raon Patrick (11) Hansen Barows (4) Indian Eco
Next Best 5, , 106
Fast Start 1, 7, 11

Race 8: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(2) BEST EVER seems to have got to grips with this level and ran a decent 4th over 1300M on his latest start in June. A previous attempt at this distance didn’t go so well but he looks ready for another crack and can come from just behind the early pace to go close here. It’s a very competitive race though. (6) BRANDON already has a class and distance 2nd to his name and while he was only 6th last time the margins were tight and he was less than two-lengths behind the winner. He too will come from behind the early lead. (11) EVER THE CHAMP beat three of these on his way to a close at hand 2nd place on June 22nd and is likely to be one of those setting the pace here. (3) EMORY SOCKS and (10) DOLGYEOK APEURO are others in the hunt.

Selections (6) Brandon (2) Best Ever (11) Ever The Champ (3) Emory Socks
Next Best 10, 9
Fast Start 8, 9, 11

Race 9: Class 3 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(4) CLEAR GEOM comes here off a shock win in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup, the final leg of the “Triple Tiara” for three-year-old fillies, a month ago. She came from off the pace to run down a tiring leader that day and has to be given serious respect back in this class today. (7) BODEURAM is a clear danger with a win and a pair of runner-up finishes from his latest two starts. He looks set to lead here and won’t be as easy for Clear Geom to run down over 1700M as those fillies were at 2000M. (6) JUMBO CAPTAIN was a class and distance winner last start, leading all the way, and while he carries an additional 4kg today, is to be taken seriously. (2) GIDONG DAEGANG and (5) LOVELY NUTE are both better than their latest outings suggest and both have placing claims.

Selections (4) Clear Geom (7) Bodeuram (5) Lovely Nute (6) Jumbo Captain
Next Best 2, 1
Fast Start 6, 7

Race 10: Class 3 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Small but very competitive field. (2) KILIUI JEWANG makes a return to this distance following a 2nd place finish in a really good race over 1200M last month. He has to carry top weight but that’s for a reason and under Lee Hyeon Jong, he could win here, likely trying to lead all the way. It’s a tough ask though. (3) INCHEON CHIEF was 4th behind Kiliui Jewang in June and has since run 3rd at 1400M. The Pioneerof The Nile colt steps up to two turns for the first time today and it seems likely to suit. (8) HWANSANG STAR remains a maiden but has several near-misses and should be close at hand again. (1) JUMEOK DOKKI and (7) SAMSAM VICTORY are others more than capable of finding the money.

Selections (2) Kiliui Jewang (3) Incheon Chief (8) Hwansang Star (7) Samsam Victory
Next Best 1, 6
Fast Start 2, 7, 8

Race 11: Class 5 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Another competitive race but (8) SIMON QUEEN ran 3rd on her first try at this level on June 30th. While she was a long way behind classy winner Running Box, it was a good performance that if repeated in this company can see her home on top. (7) KING OF RULES remains a maiden but steps up in class nonetheless today with some solid runs behind him and he should be competitive. Another maiden (1) HANEUL ACE had a poor day at the office on his latest start but is better than that and can demonstrate it here. (2) NONSTOP HAENGJIN steps up in class after a maiden win over 1000M on June 23rd and is in with a shout of at least securing some minor money. (9) BARAMUI SORI looks best of the rest.

Selections (8) Simon Queen (7) King Of Rules (2) Nonstop Haengjin (1) Haneul Ace
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 3, 9, 10

Race 12: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) COLORFUL JOY is moving rapidly up the classes having won his latest two by as many as he pleased. He actually gave up three-lengths with a poor start last time but cruised on by to win by a cool seven on the line. While he can’t afford that kind of start in sterner company today, he should be completing a hat-trick here. (5) BEYOND OVER enters off the back of consecutive runner-up finishes and while he may find one too quick again, shouldn’t be far away. (6) ISCRA was a narrow class and distance winner on June 30th and while he’s up quite a bit in the weights, can hold his own again. (2) WONDERFUL TRUTH and (11) GLOBAL CHEONHA are others to keep an eye on.

Selections (3) Colorful Joy (5) Beyond Over (6) Iscra (11) Global Cheonha
Next Best 2, 7
Fast Start 2, 3, 4, 7

Race 13: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(6) MIGHTY WING remains a maiden after eight attempts and while he came up short as favourite last time over 1700M, he didn’t run badly and is worth another chance down in trip in a similar strength race today. He should be on or close to the early speed and stay on all the way. The main dangers are likely to challenge for the early lead too. The principal one is (11) CHOIN BOLT, a winner of three from four so far to move rapidly up the classes. This is his toughest assignment to date and the draw has done him no favours, but if he gets away well, he could be hard to beat. (3) PRETTY ODD BOY has out in three promising runs since returning from six months off and shouldn’t be too far away. (1) BLUE FIRE and (9) FASHION PEOPLE are others in the placing hunt.

Selections (11) Choin Bolt (6) Mighty Wing (3) Pretty Odd Boy (1) Blue Fire
Next Best 9, 2
Fast Start 3, 5, 6, 11

Race 14: Class 3 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(9) ACTIMON got his maiden win at the sixth time of asking over 1300M at the end of May. He’s had nine weeks off since then and is up in class today but he could well be the one to beat. (3) MALIBU GINGER has been running creditably in tough company recently and should be a danger. He is likely to lead early. (10) NIMUI HYANGGI has a 3rd and two runner-up finishes from three attempts so far at this level. he too will look to lead early and is more than capable of going all the way. (5) DAEBAK HAENGJIN comes in following four consecutive 2nd place finishes. That’s put her up in trip and while she might struggle to get so close this time, she’s a contender for some minor money. (7) DORAON NALRI looks best of the rest.

Selections (10) Nimui Hyanggi (9) Actimon (3) Malibu Ginger (5) Daebak Haengjin
Next Best 7, 6
Fast Start 3, 10

Race 15: Class 2 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(1) ULTRA PUNCH beat three of these on his way to victory over class and distance on June 9th. It was a return to form for a gelding who’s shown bug potential as a juvenile and he can back it up with another win here. (3) YAHO STRONG CAT was 3rd in that race and is a class and distance winner himself. He’s consistent and is set to be a big danger. (6) GIO STAR has plenty of experience at this level and is consistently close. While he usually finds one or two too quick, he can place again. (2) TAP FASHIONED is another with plenty of recent near-misses. Those see him up in class today but he can be competitive under a light weight. (9) SAMSEONG DONGHANG on the other hand is a little bit inconsistent but goes well on his day and could be an interesting outsider.

Selections (1) Ultra Punch (3) Yaho Strong Cat (6) Gio Star (2) Tap Fashioned
Next Best 9, 11
Fast Start 1, 3, 9

 

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 26)

With the Jeju ponies taking their summer weekend off, it makes for a bumper Friday raceday at Busan with 14 races running through the afternoon and evening from 14:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Illumina

Busan nights

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(9) PAGEUKCHEON came up short when sent off as the odds on favourite on hat was his third start on June 7th. That followed back to back 4ths in his opening two appearances and he can be given another chance to come out on top here. 3rd place getter that day was (6) CHEOGANG WINNER and she seems likely to be the main danger. She has a much better draw today to get to the front early and can take advantage. (2) DAEGYO and (4) HAPPY AGAIN look to have scope for improvement while the wildcard is (10) MYEONG GONGJU, who is returning to action here just over a year since we last saw her. She had shown some ability if four starts before the layoff and trialed up competently last month.

Selections (9) Pageukcheon (6) Cheogang Winner (10) Myeong Gongju (2) Daegyo
Next Best 4, 5
Fast Start 4, 6, 9, 10

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Weak maiden here so we’ll need to forgive plenty of underwhelming latest starts if we’re to find the winner. (4) TWO TWO WAY was well backed but once again struggled when sent out around 1300M at the end of May. Her last two tries at this distance have been encouraging though and she should be set for improvement here. She’ll be on the early pace with (1) CHODONG DAEJANG, who races for the first time since finishing well back behind three of these on May 10. However, she was found to be slightly lame that day and back fully fit after two months off, she should be a different prospect. (2) YONGHO and (8) BEAUTIFUL KOREA were two of those who finished ahead of her that day. Both have raced since with mixed results but could go close here. (5) ECTON STEALTH is one with potential to improve.

Selections (4) Two Two Way (1) Chodong Daejang (2) Yongho (8) Beautiful Korea
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 1, 4, 5, 6

Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with five of the eleven racing for the first time. A few of the experienced ones have shown some ability though so we’ll start with them. Indeed, four of them raced each other on their respective debuts over 1000M on June 28th. (6) WONDERFUL PEACE came out the best of them that day only beaten a neck into 2nd place. (7) TOP FIRE was 3rd, a length in arrears, while (5) ALPHA KING was back in 5th. All three should be in the hunt again although with the slight step up in trip today, Top Fire, who raced wide throughout that day, could be the one to beat. (4) ECHO SUN put in a good debut of his own a week earlier, running 2nd over the 1000M. He was improving at the end on that race, getting to within a nose of the winner and is another who may appreciate the additional furlong. Of the first-timers, (3) STAR OREUM is the pick. He was an eye-catching trial winner at the end of June and should go well here.

Selections (7) Top Fire (3) Star Oreum (4) Echo Sun (6) Wonderful Peace
Next Best 5, 11
Fast Start 3, 4, 5

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Another competitive maiden. Three of these raced each other over this distance on June 21st with (1) MAJOR HIT, (6) WONDERFUL WINGS and (9) MS. UP filling out 2nd to 4th respectively. All three will be expected to be in the frame today. Ms. Up can perhaps be the one with the most improvement in her and she’s marginally favoured to come from off the pace and score. Among those who didn’t go in that race, (3) AMOR FATI looks the pick. Having trialed behind Ms. Up in May, he ran 2nd over this distance in June before struggling when sent off as favourite over a mile three weeks ago. Back down in trip today, he should be much better. The other one to consider is (8) NANSAN YEOJE. She ran an improved 3rd at this distance on June 21st on what was just her second career start and is likely to be on pace here.

Selections (9) Ms. Up (3) Amor Fati (1) Major Hit (6) Wonderful Wings
Next Best 8, 11
Fast Start 3, 6, 8

Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(7) PERDIDO ROCKET ran a solid 2nd when up to this trip on his second start on May 31st. He was beaten a full nine-lengths by a good winner but nevertheless, it was a promising performance and one he can build on here. (5) WILD GUY beat no fewer than four of these on his way to a second consecutive 3rd place finish on July 5th. He was only a neck away from 2nd and should be competitive again here. Among the ones Wild Guy beat that day, (4) HIDDEN BOY, who was 4th, looks to have the most potential to get closer although (6) FINAL WIND, who ran poorly in that race, had previously demonstrated ability too. (3) MAJOR PUNCH has lacked a bit of speed but has been consistently close across five starts so far and can be competitive again here.

Selections (7) Perdido Rocket (5) Wild Guy (3) Major Punch (4) Hidden Boy
Next Best 6, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 6

Race 6: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A strong favourite is expected here in the shape of (1) HUSE JEWANG. True, he’s fallen short when market-leader twice already but he’s run up against good ones both times and stepping up to a mile for the first time, should have too much. (11) TIZBE looks the main danger. She took to this distance really well on June 28th, beating four of these on her way to 2nd place. The wide draw shouldn’t be too much of a problem and she looks to have more improvement in her. (6) ETERNAL TRON has finished 2nd and 3rd in two efforts at this distance and looks to have a good shout of maintaining that placing record here. (4) BAEDAERI CAPER was 4th behind Eternal Tron last time out and can aim to at least match that today. (5) BICHUI HOWI is best of the rest.

Selections (1) Huse Jewang (11) Tizbe (6) Eternal Tron (4) Baedari Caper
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 6, 10

Race 7: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(10) HAPPY YEOGEOL was an unexpected winner on debut over this distance on June 28th having only just barely qualified through her trial. She put in a gutsy performance though to win by a neck and should have come on for the run. Today looks harder but she has a chance. (4) ULSAN JANGGUN has just the one win from fourteen outings to date but he’s down in trip today and looks to have solid claims form a good draw. (2) BONINARA remains a maiden but has two runner-up finishes at this distance and is (more…)

Ilgan Sports Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 21)

Sunday racing sees both Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:40 to 17:10) in action. The feature event is at Seoul with the Listed Ilgan Sports Cup over 1800M. Sports Chosun winner Burui Gori looks set to be favourite to defeat largely the same set of rivals as before in the 1800M feature. Race-by-race for Seoul is below with Busan selections at the bottom:

Burui Gori Sports Chosun

Burui Gori will be aiming for a repeat of his Sports Chosun victory (Pic: KRA)

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(6) YEONGGWANGUI BEAT has shown promise across three starts so far. He was slightly slow away last time but recovered to run a useful 4th and he looks primed to make the breakthrough here. Yeonggwangui Beat had been ridden in his last two starts by Moon Sung-Hyeok but today the apprentice gets on (1) CRAZY QUEEN. This filly has also looked to have some potential with a couple of near-misses and under a light weight here, can go close. (2) GOLD LEVEL weakened having led last start but is worth another chance here while (5) CHOEGANG SINGI and (8) BAEKDU GEOPO are others with placing chances.

Selections (6) Yeonggwangui Beat (1) Crazy Queen (2) Gold Level (5) Cheogang Singi
Next Best 8, 7
Fast Start 1, 2, 9

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

Fillies only here competing for a big prize over the 1300M and a decent set of them have been attracted. Having run 4th on debut, (8) MIGHTY LUCK put in a dominating eleven-length sore on her re-appearance at this distance in early June. She’s up in class today but the manner of that victory suggests there is plenty more to come from here. It took (1) BANGTANMA ten goes to get her maiden win and she followed it up with unsuccessful, yet credible tilts at both the Korean Oaks and the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cups. She’s back in more amenable company today and back at the trip she won at so she should be a big danger. (7) SINGGEUREOUN TIME already has a 2nd and a 3rd to her name at class and distance and can maintain her consistent record here. (10) WHITE QUEEN was a touch slow to begin on debut over this distance in late May but it didn’t stop her winning by four-lengths. This is tougher but she’s in the hunt. (5) COILRO was equally impressive when registering her first score two weeks ago. Alan Munro, who rode both, gets on Mighty Luck but don’t rule out Coilro from another good performance.

Selections (8) Mighty Luck (1) Bangtanma (5) Coilro (10) White Queen
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 3, 6, 8, 9

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

Wide open class 5 affair with plenty entering with their recent form reading well. However, it’s one of the few who didn’t go especially well last time, (4) SEMYEONG STORM, who has as good a chance as any. He was a little one-paced when well back over 1300M four weeks ago, but it wasn’t a bad run and it was in stiffer company than this. He’s drawn better to get on speed today and he can win. (11) LAO JIN is the model of consistency, having run 3rd in each of his latest three starts. The wide draw is not a problem and she can maintain her good record here. (5) QUEEN FORCE ONE beat Lao Jin a couple of starts back and should be in the hunt today as well. (7) AUSPICE is up in class and distance after a good maiden win over five furlongs last start. (10) CHEONNYEONUI BARAM similarly comes in off a first victory and while it won’t be so easy for him to get to the front today, it’s not impossible.

Selections (4) Semyeong Strom (7) Auspice (11) Lao Jin (5) Queen Force One
Next Best 10, 6
Fast Start 4, 5, 7, 9

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

(2) TAEPUNG EYES has plenty of experience at this level and comes in having run 2nd to Victory King in what was arguably a better class and distance race than this on June 15th. That was despite having a warning issued against him for hanging inwards in the home straight. If he fixes his manners today, he has solid claims. (1) CANNON SHOOTER was 6th in that same race and can get closer this time although a more serious threat is likely to be the up in class (7) DAEGUN POWER. He produced a front-running performance to register his maiden win last start four weeks ago and looks to have plenty of potential for further development. (3) IL MARE got a poor trip last time out but still managed to run 5th in a decent affair. From gate three, he’ll be on speed. (8) FOR J.K, another who didn’t have the best of luck on her most recent appearance, looks best of the rest.

Selections (2) Taepung Eyes (7) Daegun Power (3) Il Mare (8) For J.K.
Next Best 10, 1
Fast Start 1, 3, 11

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(8) CHUNGDAM HORANGI beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at this distance on June 23rd. That was just his third career start and he is evidently still learning but he looks to have wins in him, and it would be a surprise if the first of them wasn’t here. (1) HANEOL STAR was 4th in that race and looks the one most likely to emerge as a serious contender here. However, the biggest threats most likely didn’t go in that race. (3) MANSEOK JIGI steps up in trip after an excellent 3rd place over 1300M three weeks ago. (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 19)

Saturday’s afternoon and evening card at Seoul is about to get underway with 10 races from 14:55 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Night Barrier

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A tough race to kick the day off with as we assess eleven maidens with some rather average form lines. Most of the chances were beaten by big margins last time out but they still ran superior times to their counterparts engaged. (3) GOLD FIELD will line up once again over the 1000m after finishing third last time out. She was beaten eight lengths but ran a time of 1.02.9 on a dry track which reads well for this assignment. Antonio Da Silva will be legged aboard who had just the one ride last weekend for one win. (5) GREEN CINDY ran a similar time last time out. She let a couple pass her in the straight,  but she has the ability to jump well and hold on for a cheque. (4) PARK BLADE drops back to the 1000m after finishing midfield over the 1300m four weeks back. Top rider Kim Yong-Geun will partner the filly once again who handed in a fair performance two starts back over the five furlongs. (2) LADY DIA was beaten ten lengths last time out when third over the 1300m. She looks the best of the rest.

Selections (3) Gold Field (5) Green Cindy (4) Park Blade (2) Lady Dia

Next Best 6, 9

Fast Start 2, 3, 5, 9

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

The second on the card sees another field of maidens line up over the short course. (6) CHEONGSU BIG EAR ran through the line strongly last start when second. The Peace Rules filly ran a handy time for this class, it is expected that Manuel Porcu will once again work forward on her with a lack of speed engaged. The other potential pacemaker is the debutant (8) CHODONG ROSE who ran a handy trial when qualifying. The chestnut seemed to respond to Song Jae Chul when he asked for an effort in the straight and there looked to be some gas left in the tank. (10) GOLDEN JAY finishing fourth behind the exciting Running Box last time out. Whilst beaten 12L, she only finished 3.5L behind the second horse and the winner looks something special. (2) JANGSAN EX has shown enough to finish in the money and gets a handy draw.

Selections (6) Cheongsu Big Ear (8) Chodong Rose (10) Golden Jay (2) Jangsan Ex

Next Best 4, 11

Fast Start 6, 9, 11

 

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance 2yo / KRW 60 Million

Nine two-year-olds will take to the track in the third with only one of them having a race start. (2) TK DAY looked impressive trialing on what looked a particularly heavy track for the field to get through. Jo Jae-Ro gave the Musket Man filly a slap with the stick and she responded well coasting through the line for an easy victory in reasonable time. (3) LUCKY BEOPJEON finished fourth behind a handy quinella in his race including Roller Blade who is two from two, and Taktuein who blew them away last time out. There is every chance he will start favourite with the form lines and should be dealt with as a winning chance albeit being beaten 9L on debut. (4) KOREA GIJEOK was nursed in his trial when finishing second running 1.04.4 on a dry track. Whilst hard to gauge it will be interesting to see him fully extended as he lines up for his debuy. (7) BISANGDEUNG ran on fairly in a slow trial. He was nursed by Lim Gi Won who will partner the filly once again.

Selections (2) TK Day (3) Lucky Beopjeon (4) Korea Gijeok (7) Bisangdeung

Next Best 5, 1

Fast Start 2, 3, 4

 

Race 4: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance 2yo / KRW 60 Million

Good to see another 2yo event on the card with the new crop filtering into the racing system. There looks an exciting type engaged in this race in the form of (3) ELITE LADY. She won her barrier trial in brilliant fashion when leading before extending away nicely. She is a well-developed two-year-old but most impressively was the way she did everything right in her trial. Song Jae Chul struck her once with the stick and she hit another gear. She looks the one to beat. (8) TANGO TIME was good in his trial. He coasted through the line running 1.03.6 on a wet track under Yoo Seung-Wan who partners the Hansen colt once again. (6) SAENAE CHOICE ran a handy time in her trial on a good rated track. Seoul’s leading rider will ride the Simon Pure filly who was somewhat green in her trial but looks to have some ability. (4) DALRINEUN BITKKAL finished sixth on debut behind Choin Gangja and looks a place chance.

Selections (3) Elite Lady (8) Tango Time (6) Saenae Choice (4) Dalrineun Bitkkal

Next Best 2, 9

Fast Start 3, 5, 6

 

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

There are plenty of in-form gallopers engaged in the fifth on the card where a field of eleven will line-up. (2) RAON PRO SENSE has been consistent for quite some time over this level and the Menifee colt has ran handy races both times when going over the 1700M. He’s somewhat of a non-winner but finds a field with no standout and with the draw should be right in this at an each-way price. (7) MENI SPEED has finished 3rd at his past five starts including three of them over 1700M. Masa Tanaka will be taking over on the three-year-old and is likely to settle him midfield before allowing him to be saved up for a quick sectional. (8) BARAM KING win in similar class three starts back and (more…)