Racing Previews

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 21)

This week’s feature race in Korea is Sunday’s Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup at Seoul, which sees the nation’s top three-year-old fillies re-convene following last month’s Korean Oaks. That race’s winner, Deep Mind, heads the field. Before that though the weekend’s action kicks off at Busan on Friday with a nine-race card from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Racecourse

Dynamic Busan

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) 2YO Allowance / KRW 75 Million 

The first bunch of Busan two-year-olds for the new season will take to the track in the first on the card. (2) TOP ACE showed early speed in his trial when going on for a solid victory. He ran a slick 1.02.0 and was not over exerted. Choi Si-Dae has been in good form and will partner with the son of Thunder Moccasin. (3) ACE JACKPOT hit the line strong in her trial. She was asked to extend at the top of the straight and ran home well when second in her trial. She ran a handy 1.02.5 in her trial. Francisco Da Silva will ride her after Choi Si-Dae who was aboard for the trial elected to ride Top Ace. (4) BLUE POWER jumped away well in his barrier trial. He was beaten by a big marking but ran through the line fairly. (8) ECHO SUN looks a place chance after finishing fourth in his trial running 1.03.4.

Selections (2) Top Ace (3) Ace Jackpot (4) Blue Power (8) Echo Sun
Next Best 7, 6
Fast Start 2, 4

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

There is a lack of speed engaged in the second which suggests that (11) BANJIUI JILJU will be able to pounce out of the gates and find the lead with ease. You Hyun-Myung should be able to dictate the speed in the affair and if she gets a cheap sectional she will take some running down. (9) SUN MOUNTAIN looks the main threat. The Simon Pure colt is coming off a solid performance when coming from well back and finishing third over the 1300m. (4) DANDI QUEEN ran home fairly last time out when finishing fifth in similar company. The Limitless Bid filly is having her eighth career start with Jung Do-Yun remaining aboard. (10) TURBO SPEED sat behind the leading division last time out and ran into third. Lee Sung Jae rides for the first time.

Selections (11) Banjiui Jilju (9) Sun Mountain (4) Dandi Queen (10) Turbo Speed
Next Best 1, 5
Fast Start 10, 11

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

A field of ten three-year-olds go around in the third on the card. (4) MORNING TAEYANG performed well at his second career start when finishing second behind Perfect Ace. The Colors Flying colt will have the services of Choi Si-Dae who will benefit from a better draw in this event. (3) MILLION BEAT has run third at two of his three career starts. He was beaten a substantial thirteen lengths last time out but expect improvement at his fourth start. (1) CASTEL CORE improved last time out when midfield in a 1300m event. He has drawn the inside today for the first time so will be aided by and economic run. (8) NANSAN YEOJE is having her second start after running out of gas up the straight last time out. The Ecton Park filly originally trialed well and should be better for the run.

Selections (4) Morning Taeyang (3) Million Beat (1) Castel Core (8) Nansan Yeoje
Next Best 2, 6, 10
Fast Start 4, 6, 7, 8, 10

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

There appears to be plenty of speed engaged in the fourth and one of those with early pace is (5) OCEAN PHEONIX. The Menifee filly ran a strong second last time out behind the well-performed Brown Pie. She has been mighty consistent this preparation. The four-year-old should sit in the first three and prove hard to beat. In contrast (6) ORANGE MARINE is yet to break maiden status but has been consistent this preparation finishing in the top four at all four starts. The import has a solid turn of foot and can be considered an each-way chance. (9) YEONGUNG ILGI should settle rearwards and steam home late. The six-year-old produced one of the fastest sectionals in his race last time out when finishing third behind Nakita. (8) USEUNG TICKET saluted in Class 5 company last time out. She drops two kilograms on last run but may struggle from a wide draw.

Selections (5) Ocean Phoenix (6) Orange Marine (9) Yeongung Ilgi (8) Useung Ticket
Next Best 7, 2
Fast Start 1, 2, 5, 7, 10

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

A lackluster field of maidens go around in the fifth where (8) DOCTOR MIMI gets her best opportunity to break maiden status. The three-year-old has ran some respectable races this preparation including a last start fourth over the mile. The Colors Flying filly has settled both forwards and rearwards in her eleven start career so Jin Kyum will have options when she jumps. (9) HAENGBOK KOREA finished a distant third in his last race start over the 1600m. He has since had a trial at the start of the month when well back. The outside gate combined with the 56kg appears to be the hurdle but his competition lacks depth. (3) LISTEN TO ME showed speed last time out over the mile. The chestnut jumped well from the outside gate before taking up the early lead. The filly started to tire at the top of the straight and plugged away for fifth. She looks the likely leader. (1) WORLD SLAM looks next best coming off a fourth over the 1300m. The good draw won’t necessarily help the three-year-old’s chances as he is normally tardy out of the gates. (more…)

Minister’s Cup Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 16)

Sunday sees the final leg of the Korean Triple Crown, the Minister’s Cup, taking place at Seoul Racecourse. (Seoul 11 races from 10:45 to 18:00, Busan 6 races from 12:40 to 17:10). There’s no Triple Crown on the line but the 2000M showpice nevertheless promises to be a fascinating affair as KRA Cup Mile winner Global Chukje and Korean Derby winner Wonderful Fly face-off.

Wonderful Fly KRA

Wonderful Fly won the Derby (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

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

A filly-only maiden to begin with and (4) PRIMA NIKE steps back up in trip after a strong 2nd place over 1000M a month ago looking the one to beat. A good apprentice jockey keeps the weight nice and low and she’s only ever finished outside the top four on one occasions. She can win here. (7) GOLD LEVEL beat a couple of these on her way to 2nd over 1200M on May 19th and shapes to be the main danger here. (1) HAWK ARIRANG finished 5th in that same race which was marked improvement from prior efforts and she can continue to make progress here. (2) SERA YEOJE is best of the rest.

Selections (4) Prima Nike (7) Gold Level (1) Hawk Arirang (2) Sera Yeoje
Next Best 3, 9
Fast Start 4, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A two-turn maiden and (3) RAON JEWANG is set to be firm favourite. Though yet to win in nine attempts, he’s raced at this distance four time already and has finished no worse than 4th. This should be his day, likely leading from gate to wire. (4) TAP MUSIC showed some promise when stepped up to this trip on just his third start a month ago, running 4th. He should have come on for that run and can continue to improve today, likely trying to close late. (7) RAON STELLA’s best performance to date came at this distance and he steps back up to it today with placing claims, while both (2) INCHEON LION and (11) CHEONJI GISANG can compete for minor money too.

Selections (3) Raon Jewang (4) Tap Music (2) Incheon Lion (7) Raon Stella
Next Best 11, 8
Fast Start 5, 7, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Kim Yong Geun partners (1) SMARTY BLUE for the second time, having ridden the colt to a good 4th place at class and distance on May 11th. He looks nicely in here and has every chance of getting what would be a second career win. (7) CHEONGDAM TIGER was a strong class and distance 2nd on a wet track last start and if he can get close to the early lead again, has every chance of a repeat or better. (6) WELLBEING STORY enters with recent form reading promisingly and has the services of Moon Se Young today. (4) SEOUL SIDAE saw his rating slide sufficiently to drop back in class last start. He promptly won and while back up in grade today, find himself nicely in under a light weight and he can go close again.

Selections (1) Smarty Blue (7) Cheongdam Tiger (6) Wellbeing Story (4) Seoul Sidae
Next Best 9, 3
Fast Start 1, 2, 7, 9

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

(5) L CHOICE is the pick here. An admittedly distance 3rd behind a very good winner las start, she’s nicely drawn to get to the lead and if she does, she’ll be hard to catch. Main danger is (7) LUCKY SOCHEON. She drops back in trip after good work around 1300M last start and shouldn’t be far away here. (4) FULL MOON OCEAN was slowly away when well backed for her first try at this level on May 11th. She never had a chance after that but ran on ok and is worth another go today. (11) UNMYEONGE FALLING is up un class after an all the way win on May 5th on just her third career outing. She’s drawn the widest gate but should be competitive at this level. (1) PARTY POWER, going around for the 52nd time today, is more than capable of running into some prize money in this company.

Selections (5) L Choice (7) Lucky Socheon (4) Full Moon Ocean (11) Unmyeonge Falling
Next Best 1, 2
Fast Start 2, 4, 5, 11

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

(11) PRIVATE MAN enters after a 3rd and a 4th in his latest two and while both times he’s been well back behind good winners, could have enough about him to make the breakthrough here. He’ll come from off the pace so the wide draw is no problem, and he can win. (10) LAO JIN steps back up in trip following two solid 3rd place finishes over 1000M while (3) HEY DREAMER and (5) GEOMBIT YEOLJEONG are both up in class and should be competitive. (4) WANY K was a shock winner at class and distance three weeks ago and while a repeat would be a surprise, she warrants more respect today.

Selections (11) Private Man (10) Lao Jin (5) Geombit Yeoljeong (3) Hey Dreamer
Next Best 4, 6
Fast Start 5, 8, 10, 12

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

Having secured his maiden win in April, (7) GIMABUDAEJANG ran 4th on his first try at (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 15)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00.

Choinma

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) 2yo / KRW 75 Million

The first crop of two-year-olds for the new season take to the track in the first on the card. Replay watchers would have identified that the trial from (5) TAKTUEIN was impressive. The big filly was still on the bridle when running 1.02.8 in a 1000m barrier trial in late May. (6) ROLLER BLADE ran a slightly faster time but was asked for more of an effort in his trial on the same day. The Officer colt worked straight to the front and ran through the line strongly. (7) LUCKY BEOPJEON trialed behind the well performed Sky Bay when finishing midfield but running a fast time. Of the remainder (12) JANGSU NABOM ran a reasonable time when overcoming a wide gate in his trial.

Selections (5) Taktuein (6) Roller Blade (7) Lucky Beopjeon (12) Jangsu Nabom
Next Best 11, 9
Fast Start 5, 6, 7, 9, 10

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A lack of exposed form is the theme of the second where eleven maiden gallopers will line up over the 1300m. (6) NAE GIRUI BIT looks hardest to beat coming off a last start second behind Crazy Q. The chestnut is likely to position just off speed from his middle draw and run home strong. (1) MACH CHEONHA will have her seventh start after being sent out at short odds last start and only managing to finish fifth with no excuses. From the inside expect her to sit prominent. (8) QUEEN STREET worked forward early last time out and capitulated to run fifth behind Simon Queen. If she can get across from barrier eight early on and have an economic trip she can run into the money. (2) J N LEE looks the best of the rest in a field that lacks depth.

Selections (6) Nae Girui Bit (1) Mach Cheonha (8) Queen Street (2) J N Lee
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 2, 7, 8

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

A field of eight will go over the 1300m in the third of the day. (4) SMART GUNHWANG showed plenty of promise at his first start when finishing third over the 1300m. The son of Tiz Wonderful finished three lengths behind Gabo Pull Day when they ran a good time for this company. (2) HUSH DAEBO is also having his second run in the event. He settled well back on debut and ran through the line fairly. Moon Se-Young resumes and will take the reins. (8) CRAZY QUEEN was sent out at very short odds last time out coming off a second two starts back. She settled well back last time out and may be forced to do the same with a wide draw. She looks and each way chance with the claim. (3) COLORS DE LAGO improved last time out when third behind Jeongmun Sai. She may have the speed to lead in this race.

Selections (4) Smart Gunhwang (2) Hush Daero (8) Crazy Queen (3) Colors De Lago
Next Best 5, 7
Fast Start 3, 4, 5, 8

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

The fourth on the card has an abundance of early speed engaged. (3) WONDERFUL DIXIE looks one of the better bets on the card coming off successive good performances. The Eurosilver colt finished third last time out behind Tohamsan Power and gets in to this race well weighted. The three-year-old has ran some handy times over the 1000m suggesting the drop back in distance will not concern him. (9) GAL IP had her first run in Class 4 company last time out and performed fairly. She settled midfield before passing a couple in the straight. The 5f will enhance her chances of a forward showing. Expect improvement today and keep her safe in your selections. (7) CHANGSEONG LUCKY was a winner in Class 5 company last time out. The four year old produced a fast sectional to get there in the shadows of the post. (10) UNDEFEATED has picked up a cheque in this company at his past couple of starts and should be kept safe in your selections.

Selections (3) Wonderful Dixie (9) Gal Ip (7) Changseong Lucky (10) Undefeated
Next Best 1, 4
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 6

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

The fifth on the car looks a race in two where they will both position on speed. (4) VICTORY KING has drawn well for his assignment. The Magician three-year-old is yet to (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 14)

The final leg of the 2019 Korean Triple Crown, the Minister’s Cup, takes place at Seoul this Sunday but the weekend’s action gets underway on Friday at Busan with 9 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan World Sun

It’s Friday! It’s Busan!

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

An inexperienced field of eleven will go over the five furlongs to get things underway at Busan. (5) QUEEN OF ADELE brings the dominant form lines into the race finishing in the top three on two occasions from her past three starts. Expect polished jockey Seo Seung Un to position the Colors Flying filly close to the speed. (9) STOLEN BEAUTY showed early speed last time out over the five furlongs when managing to settle second from the outside gate. Her draw is marginally better and this looks a slightly weaker assignment. (3) CHODONG JINJU is having her fourth start after finishing well back last time out. Her performance two starts back was good when producing a nice turn of foot. (10) DARUI BADA passed a few in the straight last start and appears a place chance at best.

Selections (5) Queen Of Adele (9) Stolen Beauty (3) Chodong Jinju (10) Darui Bada
Next Best 4, 6, 1
Fast Start 4, 5, 9, 11

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

There is a lack of exposed form in the second with the field having a collective twenty-nine starts between them for just five top three finishes. The lack of form suggests that debutant (10) PARADISE KING can figure in this event after a handy trial. The Hansen colt finished second in the trial when ridden hands and heels through the line. The trial time was 1.02.6 which will see him be competitive. He showed early speed in the trial so expect him to sit in the first half of the field. (7) TOHAM IMPACT has placed on two occasions from four career starts. He was slightly disappointing last time out when sent out at short odds and only beating a few home. Look for him to bounce back in this event where he drops back to the 1000m. Seo Seung Un will ride (3) CHODONG YEOSIN for the first time today after she finished second (2.5L) behind Goldui Inyeon. (6) SPICE ROCK has shown she can run home well and appears a place chance on recent runs. (2) BEAUTIFUL KOREA was much-improved last time and can build on that run here.

Selections (10) Paradise King (7) Toham Impact (3) Chodong Yeosin (6) Spice Rock
Next Best 2, 4, 1
Fast Start 3, 4, 10, 12

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

First starter (4) WONDERFUL COUNTRY has had two trials as he comes into his debut preparation. The three-year-old ran 1.03.2 when winning a barrier trial on 19/06/01. The Menifee chestnut was asked for an effort but still appeared to have plenty in the tank. He will most likely jump at an each-way price in a wide open field. (5) ZET KING appears the main danger with the drop back in distance to 1300m looking ideal. Trainer Kim Byung hak has engaged Seo Seung Un for the ride and from barrier five it is expected he will work forward early. (8) DONGBANG NARAE has been sent out at reasonably short odds at her first two career starts. She has only managed to finish midfield and both runs have been on wet tracks. Look for her to improve. (3) BAEDARI CAPER has been around a while having twenty starts and yet to finish closer than third. He is a place chance at best.

Selections (4) Wonderful Country (5) Zet King (8) Dongbang Narae (3) Baedari Caper

 
Next Best 2, 10
Fast Start 4, 5, 7, 12

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

Three-year-old Officer filly (3) MAJOR PUNCH looks as if she will appreciate the mile as she lines up in race four. She was last on the turn at her most recent run and finished off well to finish fifth.  If she gets away well at the start she will take some beating. (7) PARTY WINNER is having start six in this event and has managed to finish in the top five on three occasions from his five starts to date. (6) CHEONNYEONUI ULRIM showed early speed last time when finishing fifth behind Karin who has gone on for successive victories. Expect him to sit just behind the speed and look for improvement at start four. (8) YEONGWON CHAMP appears the best of the rest and is a place chance. (1) GRAND CAPTAIN has hinted at improvement recently and can also be a threat for the money.

Selections (3) Major Punch (7) Party Winner (6) Cheonnyeonui Ulrim (8) Yeongwon Champ
Next Best 1, 4, 9
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 7

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

A field of ten will go over the mile in the fifth of the day. Three-year-old (10) DAEHO JILJU looks as if he will appreciate stepping back up to the mile after winning two starts back over the distance. He has been consistent since starting his career in December. He has shown he is versatile in his short career after settling both on speed and midfield. (7) YEONGGWANGUI CHEER was sent out favourite by punters last time out and won by a head. He has to carry the 55kg in this but is considered an each-way chance. (1) URANUS J has been consistent at this level at his past few starts and will be aided by an inside draw. He worked overtime last time out with a wide draw but will have an economic run in this event. (4) ALBERT KING took ten starts to break maiden status two starts back. He followed it up with a midfield performance behind Bobae Dream last time out. He looks one to include in your exotic bets. (more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 9)

No Stakes action in Korea on Sunday but there’s still plenty going on with 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:05. Full preview on Seoul races with Busan selections at the bottom:

Always Winner

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

The first to get us underway on the eleven-event card has ten gallopers lining up for their first victory. (8) GEOM HYANG looks hardest to beat coming off successive placed performances over the 5f. The Clear Attempt filly does her best work late so expect her to sit midfield and pass them in the straight. (2) PARK BLADE has her second run today after finishing midfield on debut. The Lee Shin-Young trained galloper should improve second-up. (6) TIZ ROSE also debuted last time out when finishing 5.5L behind Wonderful Dixie back in December. The three-year-old has had a trial coming into this preparation. (4) GYEONGGUKJIMA should sit on speed from barrier four and looks an each-way chance in a field with limited form.

Selections (8) Geom Hyang (2) Park Blade (6) Tiz Rose (4) Gyeonggukjima
Next Best 9, 3
Fast Start 3, 4, 8

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

An inexperienced field of nine will take to the track in the second where there appears to be only a few chances. (5) WONDERFUL MARINE showed improvement last time out when finishing second at odds over the 6f. The three-year-old passed a few in the run home and looks a chance in a field that lacks depth. (9) JEONDONG SARANG ran on well last time out when finishing fourth over the 5f. The Any Given Saturday filly will appreciate the step up in distance allowing her to settle before hitting the line strong. (4) CUTIE BARBIE looks a place chance on recent performances albeit beaten big margins. (6) BINNANEUN RUBY is yet to salute from twenty-one starts but looks one that will eventually breakthrough in this company.

Selections (5) Wonderful Marine (9) Jeongdong Sarang (4) Cutie Barbie (6) Binnaneun Ruby
Next Best 1, 8
Fast Start 1, 5, 8

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Eleven maiden fillies will take to the track in the third where (9) AN MOK HANG looks the one to beat coming off a strong debut performance. The Exploit filly overcame a wide draw at her only start to sit on speed and run through the line strong. (3) WIND RIVER has placed in similar company over the 5f. She requires time to settle into stride but will produce a good sectional for Moon Sung Hyeok. (9) JEONGSEONG STAR makes her debut today after a promising trial. The Colors Flying is the only two-year-old engaged in the race. (5) SINBU appears the best of the remainder and is a place chance.

Selections (9) An Mok Hang (3) Wind River (11) Jeongseong Star (5) Sinbu
Next Best 6, 8
Fast Start 2, 5, 8

Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

A compact field of eight will line up in the fourth where there is an absence of speed engaged. (2) NALARA HILL looks one that will appreciate the lack of speed. The Colors Flying should be able to sit in the leading division and run through the line strongly as she did last time out. (1) KINGS CARRIAGE settled midfield last time out when running on fairly to finish third. The inside draw won’t necessarily assist his chances but given the lack of speed he may be able to sit slightly closer to the lead. (8) YULONG FLYING steps up to the 6f after showing a good turn of foot last time out over the 5f. It may pay to follow the three-year-old when he finds a race with more speed engaged. (7) DIAVOLA has her second start today after passing a few in the straight last time out. Keep her safe in the exotics.

Selections (2) Nalara Hill (1) Kings Carriage (8) Yulong Flying (7) Diavola
Next Best 5, 6
Fast Start 1, 2, 6

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

Three-year-old (3) FULL MOON SKY looks one of the main chances engaged in the fifth after going down just over a length in similar company last time out. The Indian Evening colt appreciated the step-up to the 1700m and should be prominent in the run once again from barrier three. (7) DAL SUNI broke maiden status last time out with a comprehensive four length win over the 1700m. She carries just the 52kg in this event and looks an each-way chance. (5) CHOEGANG PARTY broke through in good style last time out with a gutsy performance when holding off Hope Kingdom by a nose. David Breux retains the ride and the Korean-bred will drop two kilograms with the rise in grade. (2) CHEONNYEON HAPPY is still looking for her first win but was promoted to this company after some consistent performances in Class 6 company.

Selections (3) Full Moon Sky (7) Dal Suni (5) Choegang Party (2) Cheonnyeon Happy
Next Best 4, 6
Fast Start 2, 3

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

The consistent (5) BARAMEUL GEURIDA looks the one to beat in the sixth race after a last start second in similar company. The speed map looks to suit the three-year-old where it looks like he should take up the running and be hard to gun down albeit the 57kg. (7) INDEPENDENCE broke through last time out for his first win. The Thunder Moccasin colt was one of the first to get going last time out so expect a positive ride from (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 8)

After a wet Friday, the clouds have cleared and we’re set for 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00:

RH7_2659

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

Quite an open maiden to begin with. (5) CHEONHA YEOJE gets the verdict on the back of an improved 2nd place in a fast time on a wet track at this distance on April 27th. She led for most of the way round that day, is well drawn to lead again and this time may not be caught. Four of these raced each other at this distance on May 12th. (6) P.K. GUNHWANG finished the best of them in 5th and can build on that here although (2) BAEKSAEK GWANGCHAE and (9) CHOEGANG MAGIC were within a couple of lengths and should be in the frame here. (1) WONDERFUL PANGPANG was a little further back in that race but has hinted at ability and the jockey booking and the better draw, will tempt some.

Selections (5) Cheonha Yeoje (2) Baeksaek Gwangchae (1) Wonderful Pangpang (6) P.K.Gunhwang
Next Best 9, 4
Fast Start 1, 5

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

Small field but competitive. (5) ROYAL SMARTY has improved across four starts so far culminating in 2nd place over 1300M last start, having come from well off the pace from the widest gate. Expect him to be ridden closer forward from the start today and he can go one better. (2) BLUE DAEJAYEON did nothing wrong when 5th on debut a month ago and can build on it today while (7) CHEONNYEONUI GODO and (8) VIRTUS have both hinted at ability and may improve here. There is one debut-maker and (6) RED SUN looked sharp in a late-May trial and could go well first-up. Watch how he goes in the market.

Selections (5) Royal Smarty (6) Red Sun (2) Blue Daejayeon (8) Virtus
Next Best 7
Fast Start 5, 6, 8

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

(4) SA SA has been knocking at the door in her latest three not missing out by much in similar company to today. She should be on pace from the start here and looks the one to beat. (6) DAECHEON VOW warrants respect having won at class and distance on May 11th, making all. She carries an additional 4kg today but should be right in the mix once more. (5) DRAGON BOAT was 3rd in that same race and can shouldn’t be too far away again. (3) SPEED BELLE should be better dropped back in trip today while (11) HAE WANG’s recent form is promising and he could run into some minor money.

Selections (4) Sa Sa (6) Daecheon Vow (5) Dragon Boat (3) Speed Belle
Next Best 11, 8
Fast Start 2, 4, 6, 10

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

(5) COLORFUL JOY is up in class after a six-length win over 1300M on May 12th. The stable is in great form at the moment and the colt is well-drawn to lead again and can back up with another win. (3) HUIMANG STAR remains a maiden but beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place at class and distance four weeks ago and should beat plenty again. It’s a similar story for (4) SEUNGRI PLUS, winless after seventeen attempts, but a proven money winner in this type of company. (1) SPEED HEUKRYONG and (6) CHOWON MARU are others who should be in at least the placing hunt.

Selections (5) Colorful Joy (3) Huimang Star (4) Seungri Plus (1) Speed Heukryong
Next Best 6, 9
Fast Start 5, 6, 8, 11

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

(12) THE SPIKER has never finished worse than 4th in six outings so far and ran 2nd last time over 1300M. He’s down slightly in trip here and today should be his day. (10) GANGHWA CHONGGAK has a 2nd and a 3rd in two attempts at this level and is the principal danger. He’ll be on speed early and may be tough for the favourite to overhaul. (5) SEUNGNI GIEOK hinted at a return to form when 4th last start and can build on that here while (2) LIAM’S MOONEY and (6) DREAM YEONGCHEON are others to take into consideration.

Selections (12) The Spiker (10) Ganghwa Chonggak (5) Seungni Gieok (2) Liam’s Mooney
Next Best 6, 4
Fast Start 3, 6, 7, 10

Race 6: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) GEUMA WHOLESOME ran 2nd over 1800M on his first try around two-turns having scored his maiden win at 1300M the previous start. He carries plenty of weight, but it’s no more than last time, and he can win again. (6) CHONGAL GACHI was a five-length winner over this distance at class 5 level in April before running 3rd at this class a month ago. He’ll look to lead from the gate and if he gets in front, won’t be easy to dispose of. (more…)

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

There has been quite a bit of rain across the peninsula over the past 24 hours including at Busan which is where Friday’s racing takes place. There are 9 races from 11:30 to 18:00:

RH7_2434

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

(7) PAGEUKCHEON has finished 4th in both starts so far. Bart Rice’s colt should be on speed from the gate and is favoured to make his breakthrough today. (11) CHOEGANG WINNER ran an improved 3rd last start and while he has drawn wide can continue to make progress today. (1) NEOLBEUN GOEUL raced three times without distinction last year but returns following six months off having looked a different horse when winning a trial in a fast time at the end of April. He’ll be expected to go well first-up here. (5) LUCKY TOGETHER and (10) ARA MYUNGMA are others who can improve in a weak race.

Selections (7) Pageukcheon (11) Choegang Winner (1) Neolbeun Goeul (5) Lucky Together
Next Best 10, 3
Fast Start 1, 7, 8, 11

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

After an inauspicious debut at the end of last year, (8) BARAMGWA GUREUM has run well in three subsequent outings, all at this trip. He was a touch disappointing when finishing 5th as favourite last time out but looks worth another chance here. (10) SPERO SPERA was the longest shot on the board that day but managed to finish 4th, half a length in front of Baramgwa Gureum. He’ll warrant more respect today. (9) FUNKY struggled at 1300M last start but should be better dropped back to the minimum today. Debut-makers (1) THE SUN OF GOD and (2) FOREVER RUNNER did nothing wrong in trials and can be competitive here. Watch the market with both.

Selections (8) Baramgwa Gureum (9) Funky (1) The Sun Of God (10) Spero Spera
Next Best 2, 4
Fast Start 2, 8, 9

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

(5) LEGACY returned after over a year out to run 3rd at this distance on May 17th. He was favourite that day but should have come on for the run and should be sent off at the top of the market here too. He should lead all the way. (1) FINAL WIND has a 2nd place to his name at this trip and is set to be one of the principal dangers while (12) ACRA improved last start and looks ready to try this extended trip once more. (10) HIDDEN BOY steps back in distance after a solid showing over a mile last start and should be in at least placing contention while (6) NOVELLA races for the first time since last November and showed some promise over the course of a couple of recent trials.

Selections (5) Legacy (1) Final Wind (10) Hidden Boy (12) Acra
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 1, 4, 6

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

Three-year-old maidens only here. (11) HUSE JEWANG is the slight pick. He’s shown steady – if somewhat sedate – progress across three outings so far and could be the one to step up here. Plenty of other candidates too. (9) TIZ JOYFUL was an improved 4th over 1000M in decent company last time out, running on well, and should appreciate the step up in trip today. (4) GEUMGANG CHILBO ran poorly last start in April but has since been through two trials in eye-catching fashion and enters consideration. (3) TIZBE and (7) CHARGE POWER are others in the hunt.

Selections (11) Huse Jewang (9) Tiz Joyful (7) Charge Power (4) Geumgang Chilbo
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 4, 5, 7

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

(1) LUCKY NUMBER ONE is up in class having made all to secure her second career win over a mile two weeks ago. Intriguingly she’s dropped all the way back to the minimum distance today but she’s a front-runner who can get forward from the inside and can win again. (3) HALLA HWANGHU also steps up in class following an eye-catching five-length win over this distance on May 10th and should be firmly in the hunt again. (7) LUCKY ADELE was 2nd that day and comes u in grade as well with the potential to be competitive. Continuing the theme of those taking on class 4 company for the first time, (5) BLACK SHIELD returned from nine months off in March to make all and win over 1200M and looks very nicely in here. As for those with experience of this level, (2) BUGYEONG STORY looks the best of them.

Selections (1) Lucky Number One (3) Halla Hwanghu (5) Black Shield (2) Bugyeong Story
Next Best 7, 6
Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 8

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

(5) HANSEN DREAM was a battling winner over this distance on debut on May 3rd. He’s up in class today but is nicely drawn to get on speed from the start and could win again. The main danger is (4) KAHEKILI. She led all the way to win by six-lengths on what was (more…)

Gaon Champ, Doraonpogyeongseon, Ace Korea in SBS Sports Sprint / Silver Wolf in Ttukseom Cup: SUNDAY RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW (June 2)

It’s a massive day of double Graded Stakes action at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday. The second leg of the Sprint Series sees Busan Ilbo Cup winner facing off against Ace Korea and two-time winner Doraonpogyeongseon. Meanwhile, the great Aussie mare Silver Wolf will be hot favourite to win the Ttukseom Cup. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:10.

Gaon Champ KRA

Gaon Champ won the 1st leg of the Sprint Series (Pic: KRA)

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

(3) CHEONNYEONUI BARAM is the most experienced galloper of the field and has started to show some consistency in his racing. He finished second last start behind Geumbit Yeoljeong in a time that was good considering a dry track. (8) NEOSEONG BYOKRYOK has placed at his last two starts over the 1000m. With four weeks between runs he should be freshened up for another good performance over the 1000m. (10) O PI M J has ran some handy races over the 1000m prior to this event. Expect the three-year-old to drop back as he normally does suggesting the wide draw will not be a problem. (9) HYEONGMA PUBU is first up since July last year but had a trial coming into this event. The four-year-old showed some promise in this type of race last year.

Selections (3) Cheonnyeonui Baram (8) Neoseong Byokryok (10) O Pi M J (9) Hyeongma Pubu
Next Best 6, 11
Fast Start 3, 11, 12

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

The second on the card has twelve engaged all looking for their first win. (2) UTGE HAEJULGE gets his best chance to notch his maiden win. The three-year-old has drawn ideally for his style of racing. He should sit right behind the speed and Lim Gi-Won can produce him at the top of the straight. (6) SEOUL MAGIC has shown some form over the 1000m of late. The chestnut has early speed so expect him to be in the first couple in running. (3) ANYANG LEOPARD finished runner up behind Independence last start which a few of these are coming out of that particular race. (8) MOONHAKCHEETAH notched his first place finish last start and can improve today.

Selections (2) Utge Haejulge (6) Seoul Magic (3) Anyang Leopard (8) Moonhakcheetah
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 5, 6, 10

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

The third has a field of twelve engaged where we can make a case for almost half the field. (3) CAMP BADA saluted in good fashion last time out when dropping back to the 1000m. With the similar draw to that of last time she will be in this for a long way down the Seoul straight. (2) MISS GELLA doesn’t like winning but she continues to keep the stakes rolling over for connections. She can jump quickly and sit in the leading division. (5) BAEKSANG showed a clean set of heels last time out when leading from gate to line. Moon Sung-Hyeok retains the ride and gets small weight relief with the rise in class. (4) GABO PULL QUEEN saluted at an each-way price last time out over the 1300m when overcoming barrier eleven. This is tougher but keep her safe.

Selections (3) Camp Bada (2) Miss Gella (5) Baeksang (4) Gabo Pull Queen
Next Best 10, 6
Fast Start 3, 4, 5, 8

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

A field of eight maidens take to the track in the fourth where there only appears to be a few chances. The Kim Soon-Keun trained (3) ROYAL GHOST looks hard to beat at her fourth career start. Kim Yong Geun will partner the three-year-old who had a trial earlier this month. Expect her to sit closer in the small field. (7) MIGHTY LUCK was promising on debut last time out when she finished fourth over the 1000m. Expect improvement from the athletic looking chestnut today. (6) COILRO looked green in the run home last time out. She was beaten a big margin, but she did still have fuel in the tank at the post unlike the majority who finished behind her. (4) MACH THUNDER appears the best of the rest in a maiden that lacks form.

Selections (3) Royal Ghost (7) Mighty Luck (6) Coilro (4) Mach Thunder
Next Best 2, 1
Fast Start 3, 7

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

The engagement of Kim Yong-Geun gives confidence when looking at the chances of (5) CHODONG BOBAE. The filly hit overdrive in the last furlong when winning last time out, but she did look like she would benefit from a senior rider. (11) PRIME QUEEN broke maiden status last time out in good style. She wasn’t given the most economic run by Moon Se-Young but her brute strength won her the race. She is a winning chance and will be ridden by Johan Victoire with Moon Se-Young on forced vacation. Look for improvement from (4) BIG PRO after and encouraging second last start when running through the line strong. (8) MAPAEBONG has finished in the top five on eight occasions from eleven starts and should be considered in your novelties.

Selections (5) Chodong Bobae (11) Prime Queen (4) Big Pro (8) Mapaebong
Next Best 2, 9
Fast Start 2, 9, 11

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

A small field of eight will line up over the 1300m in the second at Busan. It appears that there will be a short-priced favourite in the form of (3) ULTRA POWER. The three-year-old broke maiden status two starts back in Class 6 company and then backed it up with a respectable fourth last time out when beaten 2.5L by Dodohan who has a significant weight advantage. This looks a weaker task and the colt gets the services of the in-form Seo Seung-Un. (4) CHOEGANG STEALTH starts a new preparation and has the benefit of a trial coming into this assignment. The five-year-old has shown glimpses of ability including a last start second before going to the paddock. Four-year-old (7) WANBONG looks the best of the rest. He failed to muster last time out and was hemmed away on the fence in traffic. His runs prior were respectable and he can be considered a place chance. (8) ROYAL CLUB has been out of form recently but has placed in this company.

Selections (3) Ultra Power (4) Choegang Stealth (7) Wanbong (8) Royal Club
Next Best 5, 6
Fast Start 3

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

Three-year-old daughter of Menifee (3) TAP LINE looks hard to beat after a dominant win over 1300m last start. She jumped out of the gates and went straight to the lead only to accelerate in good fashion at the top of the straight. Johan Victoire takes over from the suspended Alan Munro. (5) MALAKAS won in similar company last time out in a blanket finish. She rises 2kg in the weight scale is considered an each-way chance. There are some speedy ones engaged in this event so it won’t surprise if she gets a fair way back. (more…)

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

June gets underway with a 10-race program at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Choinma

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

(8) CLEAN UP TRIO has been knocking on the door for some time and while he was slightly disappointing in a tougher race at this distance last time out, his could be his day to make the breakthrough. There are plenty of others in with a chance though. (3) FIRST THUNDER has looked promising since returning from ten months off in April. He was a solid 5th last start at the distance and can get closer today. (1) WONDERFUL HEELS and (5) FLYING BULLET have also hinted at ability and this is a very good opportunity for them to improve. (6) CHEONJI POKPUNG looks best of the rest.

Selections (8) Clean Up Trio (3) First Thunder (5) Flying Bullet (1) Wonderful Heels
Next Best 6, 4
Fast Start 3, 8

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

Ryan Curatolo made his Seoul breakthrough last week and the French jockey has an excellent opportunity to add another with (8) STRONG VULTURE, a much-improved 3rd last start. He should be on pace early and can win. (9) YEONGGWANGUI BEAT looks the main danger having finished 3rd on debut over 1200M, running on well. (5) IRON HEART was favourite for her latest start back in March but raced ungenerously throughout ultimately finishing in 5th place. She had shown ability prior to that and if she fixes her manners, she has a real chance. (3) COMPLETE MOTION and (4) JIOBANA are others in the hunt.

Selections (8) Strong Vulture (9) Yeonggwangui Beat (5) Iron Heart (4) Jiobana
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 4, 5, 8

Race 3: Class 4 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(9) CUPID GUY was a brisk winner at class and distance on April 27th, coming from just off the speed to win by half a length over decent opposition. He carries an extra couple of kilos today but can win again. (11) CHOEGANG STAR is up in class having secured an equally impressive victory at this distance four weeks ago. The Midshipman colt will need to overcome the widest draw but looks to also have potential for more improvement. (3) MUNHAK FIRE enters after back to back 4th place finishes and could go closer here while (5) K.N ACE and first-time starter (6) MOONHAK EKATI are others to keep an eye on.

Selections (9) Cupid Guy (11) Choegang Star (5) K.N Ace (3) Munhak Fire
Next Best 6, 1
Fast Start 3, 4, 7, 11

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

Back to maidens here. (2) NAE GIRUI BIT finished off very nicely for 4th over 1000M on May 11th. He steps back up in trip today looking ready to go very nicely from a similarly off the pace run. (1) J N LEE ran 5th that day, half a length behind Nae Girui Bit. That was an uptick in form and while the distance is more of a question for him, he can go close again. (3) RECOVERY TAP has been a little one-paced so far but offered some evidence of improvement which she can maintain here, while (7) MACH CHEONHA too showed promise when stepped up to this distance for the first time three weeks ago.

Selections (2) Nae Girui Bit (7) Mach Cheonha (3) Recovery Tap (1) J N Lee
Next Best 6, 4
Fast Start 3, 6

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

(12) TOHAMSAN POWER was a very solid winner over 1200M at this class last time out on May 4th. He’s carrying an extra 4kg here and has the widest gate, but both can be overcome, and he can win again. (10) HWANG GEUM SAJA also needs to defy a wide draw and get to the front early but if he can do that, he has a very good chance as his recent form reads well. (3) SENSE JAENGI can have a line drawn through his latest and given another chance today while (1) GOOD CAIRO improved when tried at this trip for the first-time last start and can continue to make progress here. (8) PRETTY ODD BOY looks best of the rest.

Selections (12) Tohamsan Power (10) Hwang Geum Saja (1) Good Cairo (3) Sense Jaengi
Next Best 8, 6
Fast Start 3, 10, 12

Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Both (1) FEATHER LIGHT and (5) QUEEN OF CAMP have had a number of near-misses across their respective starts. Both have gone well over this distance already and both look to have an excellent chance to finally make the breakthrough here. It’ a toss-up but (more…)

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:30 to 18:00. With two big Stakes races at Seoul on Sunday in the shape of the SBS Sports Sprint and the Ttukseom Cup, lots of jockeys are missing from Busan this weekend so Seo Seung-un looks set to be the man to follow down South on both Friday and Sunday:

Seo Seung Un Glitter

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

Tricky maiden for three-year-olds to kick things off with. (3) GIJEOGUI JILJU weakened late on debut over 1300M just two weeks ago. She returns quickly here and dropped back in trip should go much better today. (11) WONDERFUL TALE raced twice last autumn showing promise with a 4th and a 3rd. She came through a trial in good order at the beginning of this month and should go well first-up here. (12) STOLEN BEAUTY was an improved 4th on her second outing at this trip three weeks ago and can continue to make progress today. There are four first-time starters and a couple look to have potential. (4) USEUNGUI PARANGSAE and (9) MISS UP both went well in trials and are likely to have backers here – watch the market for clues with both.

Selections (3) Gijeogui Jilju (11) Wonderful Tale (12) Stolen Beauty (9) Miss Up
Next Best 4, 8
Fast Start 4, 9, 12

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

More three-year-old maidens. (9) ETERNAL TRON has had a stop start career so far but is to outings into his current campaign and comes in having run a good 2nd over a mile at the beginning of this month. Back down in tip today, he’s likely to be on pace early and looks ready to make his breakthrough. (3) TWO TWO WAY has been inconsistent across her seven attempts so far but comes in off a useful 3rd place over 1000M three weeks ago and can continue to make progress here while (5) TRUE SIGNATURE was an improved 3rd at this trip on April 26th and can go well again. (8) SPICE ROCK has been well supported in the market in all five of her races so far. She’s yet to go any better than 3rd but should be at least matching that here. (11) RAON FLYING did nothing much wrong on debut on May 3rd and is another in at least the placing hunt.

Selections (9) Eternal Tron (8) Spice Rock (3) Two Two Way (5) True Signature
Next Best 11, 12
Fast Start 3, 9

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

Yet more three-year-old maidens. (5) ROYAL SOLDIER did well on debut in early April, finishing 4th and running through the line well over 1000M. He steps up in trip today following eight weeks off and it could well suit. (6) MILLION BEAT also returns for the first time since the start of April. She ran an improved 3rd that day and has since been back to trial, coming through that well two weeks ago. She’s up in trip for the first time and has a chance. (9) GRAND YEONGUNG comes in off the back of two solid performances at 1000M and steps back up to this trip with cause for confidence. (1) TOHAM STAR, a good 4th on debut a month ago, and (10) PERDIDO ROCKET, are others in the hunt.

Selections (5) Royal Soldier (6) Million Beat (9) Grand Yeongung (1) Toham Star
Next Best 10, 8
Fast Start 2, 6

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

A winner of two from five so far, (10) BROWN PIE is up in class after a good win on her first try at this distance at the beginning of this month. She looks to have plenty of potential for more improvement and can win again here. (7) OCEAN PHOENIX has raced at this class five times and has only once finished outside the top three. Seo Seung-un rides her for the first time and she should be close again. (11) K PLUS WON is better than recent results suggest with them having been in tough company. Things looks more amenable today and he can improve. (2) STAR LINE Is another who can be competitive in this company while the wildcard is (12) SUPER GOLD. He returns to action for the first time since January and looked sharp in a trial at the end of last month.

Selections (10) Brown Pie (7) Ocean Phoenix (11) K Plus Won (12) Super Gold
Next Best 2, 6
Fast Start 3, 5, 7, 9

Race 5: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Back to maidens here and a small field going over a mile. (7) EL DRAGON was 3rd at this distance on her return from almost six months off four weeks ago. She already has a runner-up finish at this distance and is favoured to make her breakthrough here.  (5) DAEHEUNG SIDAE has been slowly figuring things out and his 3rd place last start suggests he’s finally starting to get it. He steps up to the mile for the first time and it may well suit. (4) TWO TWO HAMMER ran well for a class and distance 3rd last start three weeks ago and should be aiming to at least match that here. (1) DOCTOR MIMI and (3) BAENGNYEON JIJON are others with potential to improve.

Selections (7) El Dragon (5) Daeheung Sidae (4) Two Two Hammer (1) Doctor Mimi
Next Best 3, 2
Fast Start 4, 5

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

(8) MAGIC FLYING has raced well in three attempts at this class since getting his maiden win in February. His latest two tries have been at this distance ending in 3rd and 4th and he looks the one to beat here. (10) BOBAE DREAM also comes in looking in good shape and while a previous attempt at this distance didn’t go well, she looks like being one of (more…)