Racing Previews

Seoul Saturday: Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup Day: Race-By-Race Preview (October 27)

There is a big 13-race card at Seoul on Saturday running from 10:45 to 18:00. The feature race of the day is the Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup, Seoul’s heat in the 2nd leg of the Juvenile Series:

Dae Wan Ma Dq

Dae Wan Ma crossed the line 1st in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup onlyh to be DQ’d – he’ll be well backed again in the 2nd leg of the Juvenile Series (Pic: KRA)

 

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

This is an especially weak maiden and while (7) BARAMUI MISO hasn’t been hugely impressive across her two starts so far, his 3rd – in similar strength company to this – and 5th – in stronger – suggest that with any kind of improvement at all, she should win, Next best is (2) TAP LUCK, who improved to 5th on his second outing last month and first at this distance. (1) SUPER CREED has shown some glimpses of ability too and while beaten by Tap Luck last time, can find the minor money here. (6) VICAR BRACING and (8) BRAIN SPEEDER have only raced once apiece and can be given a chance to improve.

Selections (7) Baramui Miso (2) Tap Luck (1) Super Creed (8) Brain Speeder
Next Best 6, 9
Fast Start 9

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with six of the eleven racing for the very first time. Among those with prior experience, both (2) BLUE FIRE and (9) GEUMA ZENITH have raced twice each with both registering a 2nd on their respective latest outings. Blue Fire’s was at this distance while Geuma Zenith’s was a narrow defeat in a fast time over 1000M and accordingly steps up for first time today. Both look to have serious claims. Of the other three who have raced before, (7) KAHINAH looks the best. Among the first-timers, there are two standouts. (5) NIMUI HYANGGI and (10) FIGHTING HERO both won trials in fine fashion, the latter especially and both can be backed first-up.

 

Selections (2) Blue Fire (9) Geuma Zenith (10) Fighting Hero (5) Nimui Hyanggi
Next Best 7, 1
Fast Start 2, 5

 

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

 

This maiden is restricted to fillies only. (6) FIRST RANK put in a solid shift on debut six weeks ago, finishing 3rd over 1000M. She made a lot of ground late on in the race and the additional distance today could well suit. She’s the top pick. (3) GREEN Y was a much improved 2nd on her latest effort at the end of last month. It wasn’t a very strong race but he improvement was notable and she’s another who may benefit from having further to race. (9) WONDERFUL HEELS is another who showed demonstrable improvement on her latest outing and is one to consider. (2) SOKBO WANGWI is a little more experienced and has raced well at this distance already and looks a good shout to place while (8) QUEEN OF CAMP is another who should be in the hunt.

Selections (6) First Rank (3) Green Y (2) Sokbo Wangwi (8) Queen Of Camp
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 1, 3, 4

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

Every time he runs now, we make the same jokes about (6) UNDEFEATED being anything but, however, we’ll draw a line through his latest because he’s back down in distance today and in against opposition he has every chance of beating. He’s well drawn to get a decent start and he can return to the winner’s circle. (3) MIREU STORM and (12) WINNER BROWN are both up in class having landed their respective maiden wins. Both should be very competitive here with Winner Brown marginally the favoured of the two. (8) DAESEUNG AGAIN ran 5th on his first try at this class last start and can build on it today. At the other end of the experience scale, (5) SSONSALGACHI ran 2nd in a not too dissimilar race three weeks ago and can aim for a repeat on what will be her fifty-second career start.

Selections (6) Undefeated (12) Winner Brown (3) Mireu Storm (8) Daeseung Again
Next Best 5, 9
Fast Start 3, 7, 8, 9

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

(9) CLEAN FLOWER has run 3rd and 5th in two outings at this level since getting her maiden win in July. Both times she’s more than held her own in stiff company and under Antonio Da Silva, she can win this, likely leading all the way. (10) HEUNG KKAEBI was a winner on debut on September 15th, over 1000M. She ran on well and should be able to handle both the higher class and increased distance with few problems. (12) RAON PRO SENSE and (8) KAILLUM YEOJE come in having finished 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced each other at 1000M at the end of September. With the extra furlong today, Kaillum Yeoje can reverse that form. (11) BODEURAM, 2nd last start at 1000M looks best of the rest.

Selections (9) Clean Flower (10) Heung Kkaebi (8) Kaillum Yeoje (12) Raon Pro Sense
Next Best 11, 6
Fast Start 1, 8, 9

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

(4) GWANGPOK JUHAENG has been showing signs of figuring things out and after a 3rd place last start four weeks ago, he can make the breakthrough today. He’ll likely settle just behind the early pace which should be set by (1) LEADER’S CAMP. She also comes in following a 3rd place last start, albeit against slightly more modest opposition, and should go close again. Another one on speed will be (3) BLACK POKKYEOKGI. It’s been five months since his solitary outing so far but he looked good when making all in a trial earlier this month and could go well first up today. (6) GIVEN WEEKEND and (11) RAON STELLA are others who can go close.

Selections (4) Gwangpok Juhaeng (1) Leader’s Camp (11) Raon Stella (3) Black Pokkyeokgi
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 1, 3

Race 7: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Imported maiden juveniles here and six of the eleven have raced before. (4) MUNHAK TSUNAMI was favourite on debut four weeks ago on the strength of a strong trial showing. He only managed to finish 2nd but it was a fast race and with any kind of improvement at all, will take some beating. Expect him to be an odds-on chance. (2) DARK PLAYER was four-lengths back in 3rd place that day and looks to be clear next best here too. Both are likely to be on the early speed. (5) SENSE JAENGI ran 2nd on debut in August before finishing 4th on re-appearance last month. He’ll need to improve to beat the top pair but should have the beating of most of the rest. Among the first-time starters, (6) GLOBAL BOSS a Cross Traffic colt, shoed some aptitude in his trial and looks the most likely to be competitive first-up.

Selections (4) Munhak Tsunami (2) Dark Player (5) Sense Jaengi (6) Global Boss
Next Best 1, 9
Fast Start 2, 4, 7

Race 8: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(12) SOL PARANG has won two from three so far and is up in class following an eye-catching eleven-length score over 1000M on October 7th. He’s also up in distance but he should be ready for it. He doesn’t need to lead from the gate so the wide draw is no real (more…)

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

The final weekend of racing in October gets underway on Friday at Busan with an 11-race card from 11:30 to 18:00. Plenty of action to get stuck into with foreign trainers Bart Rice and Peter Wolsley both having a few in contention:

Bart Rice

Trainer Bart Rice has some good chances on Friday (Pic: Ross Holburt)

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

(9) LUCKY ADELE has a 3rd and a 2nd from among his three starts so far in what has been an interrupted career. He returned from more than a year out to record that 2nd place at the end of September and he’s the one they need to beat here. (5) DAY STAR comes in off the back of her best finish to date, finishing 2nd at this distance and beating a couple of these in the process. He’ll be the main danger along with (1) SUNDAY GLORY, who has shown some potential across three outings. (3) RINGING FLYING and (11) MAKGANG YEOGEOL are others who could step up.

Selections (9) Lucky Adele (5) Day Star (1) Sunday Glory (11) Makgang Yeogeol
Next Best 3, 4
Fast Start 3, 6, 9, 11

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

Juvenile maidens here with seven of the twelve making their racecourse debut. A few of the five with experience have shown some ability though, principally, (3) TANGENT, who ran a close 2nd on debut on October 5th, having briefly led close to home. It was a wet track that day but with a bit of improvement, he can win this. (6) DOCTOR CHIC gets dropped back in trip after a solid effort over 1300M on his first start in September, when he ran 3rd having led until the closing stages. He’ll be on pace here and could lead all the way this time. (11) JEONSAUI JILJU has raced twice, improving on his latest and is another who can go well. As for the debut-makers, (1) GABO DAY won his trial in fine fashion last month and will be well-backed first-up, but the pick of them could be (5) SECRET LEGACY, who has looked competent across two trials, recording a fast time in decent company on her latest two weeks ago.

Selections (3) Tangent (5) Secret Legacy (1) Gabo Day (11) Jeonsaui Jilju
Next Best 6, 10, 7
Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 6, 12

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

More maidens here, this time it’s restricted to fillies. Plenty are in the hunt but the slight top pick is (3) KEEP GOING, who looks to be figuring things out having run 2nd at this distance on her latest start a month ago. She can sit close to the early speed and finish strongly. That speed is likely to be set by (5) GEUMA GHOST, who ran 2nd on debut over 1000M last month. She steps up in trip today and will be a big danger. (6) ECTON SPEED came very close on her debut, just missing out in a tight three-way finish at this distance on a very wet track on October 5th. Two of the others here were back down the track and she can be taken seriously. (2) TOUGH GREEN weakened a little late on when tried at this trip for the first time last month but can get close here while (9) YEONGWON CHAMP has hinted at some ability across two starts so far at 1000M and having begun both rather sluggishly, may appreciate a bit of extra distance today.

Selections (3) Keep Going (5) Geuma Ghost (6) Ecton Speed (2) Tough Green
Next Best 9, 8
Fast Start 2, 5, 6

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

Another competitive maiden with eight of the twelve tackling a mile for the first time. (9) JANGSAN JOY has offered few clues across two starts so far, both at 1300M. He ran on reasonably well for 4th last time and given the stable, he’s going to be well-backed here. Expect him to be on-pace early with the potential to lead all the way. (7) P.K. NINE looked on the verge of getting his breakthrough win in the summer but has seemingly lost his way a bit in a couple of starts since. The step up in trip could well suit and he looks set to go close. That applies to (12) MARU JJANG too, who actually beat Jangsan Joy on the latter’s debut and can give him a good race again. (2) TORNADO KING returns for the first time since February. He didn’t do a lot in three outings before his layoff but looked sharp in a trial last month. (11) CHEONDUNGBARAMSORI is one of those who has race at this distance before, beating two of the others who go here on his way to 4th place – albeit a long way behind the winner – at the end of September.

Selections (9) Jangsan Joy (7) P. K. Nine (2) Tornado King (12) Maru Jjang
Next Best 11, 5
Fast Start 7, 9, 10

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

With the exception of his first two starts, (1) FELICE has been sent off at single-digit odds every time. He’s yet to win but has a number of near-misses and today could be his day. The concern is his rather lackluster showing last time when he was beaten by, among others, (9) SHARP BELL. That was a big uptick in form for the latter, who remains a maiden after twenty-four attempts and has to be respected in this company today. (3) EURO SHINHWA and (4) EURO CAPTAIN both do have experience of winning already and both have claims here. Neither are especially quick starters but as long as they don’t leave themselves with too much to do, both are capable. (2) BAEKDU BAEKHO is the wildcard, returning after a twenty-week layoff. He’s been through a number of trials since and looked sharp enough in the latest of those two weeks ago.

Selections (1) Felice (4) Euro Captain (9) Sharp Bell (3) Euro Shinhwa
Next Best 2, 11
Fast Start 2, 5, 10, 11

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

(4) MAGIC STREET comes in off the back of consecutive runner-up finishes at this class, the latter of which was at this distance. His solitary win to date was also at 1200M and he looks ready to win again, most likely leading from the start. (6) SPOT returned from almost six months off with hoof issues to run a solid 4th over 1300M two weeks ago. The (more…)

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview for Jeju Governor’s Cup Day (October 21)

The Jeju Governor’s Cup highlights an 11-race Sunday card at Seoul and Indian Star will be bidding to win the 1400 Group 3 test for fillies and mares for the third consecutive year. She’ll be up against it though as a tough field of sixteen, including two Oaks winners and a whole host of others line up.  The 1st is at 10:45 and the last at 18:00. There is also racing at Busan with 6 races from 12:40 to 17:10.

Indian Star Jeju Governors 2017 Finish - Korea Racing Authority

Indian Star won the Jeju Governor’s Cup last year and the year before. She seeks an unlikely hat-trick on Sunday

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(7) BANGTAN SONYEO has run 3rd on both his starts to date, both of them in valuable races (he actually was 4th across the line in the Munhwa Ilbo but the “winner” was disqualified). Neither of those races were especially quick but he showed prominently last time and here he will be expected to be on speed early and can win. Of the four others who have raced before, (3) JANGSAN FLY will be expected to improve – he actually ran slower on debut than he did in his trial – while (4) CHEONNYEONUI BARAM went back to trial after his own August debut and showed some potential. There are seven first-timer starters and among them, (12) GEUMBIT JANGIN was perhaps most impressive in trials. He’s a half-brother to plenty who have raced well, at least at lower levels. (9) HOMECOMING posted a fast time and should also go well first-up in what is a better than average looking maiden.

Selections (7) Bangtan Sonyeo (3) Jangsan Fly (12) Geumbit Jangin (9) Homecoming
Next Best 4, 6, 8
Fast Start 2, 3, 7, 9

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

After an inauspicious debut, (4) RULE BREAKER has come back and posted a 2nd and a 3rd in two subsequent starts. The latest being at this distance. He’s well drawn to hit the front early and the only thing that should be broken by the end is his maiden. (7) MEGA CITY and (1) K ZONE came home 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced each other over 1300M on September 15th. Both have been there or thereabouts for some time now and look to be the biggest dangers to the favourite. (9) JEONGMUN K ran on well for 5th last time at 1200M and the additional half furlong today may benefit while (10) ROAD MAN ran a useful 3rd of 7 at the distance at the start of September and returns form a seven-week layoff with the potential to repeat.

Selections (4) Rule Breaker (7) Mega City (1) K Zone (9) Jeongmun K
Next Best 10, 8
Fast Start 1, 4, 7

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

Small field but competitive with plenty in the hunt. (6) ISCRA is up in class following an eye-catching seven-length score over this distance on September 15th. It had been coming well as he had been getting progressively closer, never finishing worse than 4th over four starts to date. He made all that day and has every chance of doing so again. (9) DAE UNHA was the one who got closest to Iscra and he is accordingly up in class too – while he won’t be out of his depth, he obviously has plenty to find. A stiffer challenge is likely to come from (5) BARAMUI SORI, a winner on debut in August and who ran 2nd on her first try at this level five weeks ago. It’s her first try at further than the minimum distance, but she should be able to cope. Another leading contender is (7) BACK TO BACK, who looks to be coming back into form after a few wobbles in the early summer. (2) CITY CHAMP drops back in trip after good recent work at 1700M. He’s yet to get his maiden win but can challenge for a place in this company.

Selections (6) Iscra (5) Baramui Sori (7) Back To Back (2) City Champ
Next Best 7, 1
Fast Start 3, 5, 6

Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 50 Million

After taking a few goes to find her feet at this level, (6) SKY MARINE has run well over her last two starts, most recently being beaten just over a length into 2nd at this distance on September 15th. That was a good race and she beat some decent horses making it hard to oppose her here. (7) NEUNGRYEOK SIDAE also enters following a class and distance 2nd place. Like Sky Marine she’s been a little inconsistent but looks a potential danger today. (1) LUCAS ran a close 5th on his first try at this level just over a month ago. She’s up in trip for the first time and her running style suggests it may suit. There are a couple up in class following maiden wins last start but both (5) I AM WINNER and (10) BLESSING ROAD look as though they have plenty to find leaving (8) CHEONGSU DOLPUNG, who returns after more than a year off but trialled up well last week, and (9) LIVINGSTONE, as potential place-getters.

Selections (6) Sky Marine (7) Neungryeok Sidae (1) Lucas (9) Livingstone
Next Best 8, 3, 10
Fast Start 6, 7, 10

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

A maiden for imported juveniles here with just three of the eleven having raced before. (4) HAVANA CHARLIE was favourite on debut on September 9th having blitzed a late-August trial. He was beaten by a super performance by Gaon Queen and it would take something very special to beat him today. The other two with experience offered little on their respective debuts so we’ll turn to the first-timers to try to find some competition. (2) INCHEON SPEED showed plenty of speed when winning a trial two weeks ago and is the clear second pick. (5) FIGHTING LANGFUHR also came out on top in a trial and is the likely third-favourite. (3) SPEED WINNER and (7) MAPLE MOON others to catch the eye and both could go well first-up.

Selections (4) Havana Charlie (2) Incheon Speed (5) Fighting Langfuhr (3) Speed Winner
Next Best 7, 1
Fast Start 2, 4, 5

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

(6) EAST KINGDOM enters in good form and was 3rd last time out (beaten a neck by Sky Marine, who we saw earlier) over 1300M. He steps up to two turns for the first time with little to suggest that it won’t suit and he could be hard to beat. (7) ADELEUI KKUM (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 20)

There is a bumper 13-race program at Seoul on Saturday which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. It’s set to be a beautiful autumn day – here are the previews:

RH7_3921

US import Spring Back has been exceptional in two starts to date. He runs again in race 12 on Staurday (Pic: Ross Holburt)

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

Pretty moderate maiden to begin with. (11) USEUNG MACHA comes in having shown the best recent form with a 3rd place last time out although that was arguably in even weaker company than this. She looks to be improving though and has as much chance as any. (9) SEOKGWA BULSIK raced very greenly on what was just his second start in September. He still finished off nicely enough and looked good when sent back to trial a couple of weeks ago. Look for plenty of improvement today. (8) LUCKY MURYA overcame a stumble at the start on her latest outing but finished off nicely and she’s another who can get closer here. (3) UDDUGI and (7) ROAD WOMAN other possibles to get better.

Selections (9) Seokgwa Bulsik (11) Useung Macha (8) Lucky Murya (7) Road Woman
Next Best 3, 1
Fast Start 6, 7, 10, 11, 12

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

Juvenile maidens only with five of the twelve racing for the very first time. A couple of the experienced ones have shown some ability though and we’ll side with them. (8) CHOEGANG STAR has a 5th and a 3rd from two efforts to date and while the Midshipman colt was the beaten favourite on his latest, he’s certainly worth another chance here. He should be on pace straight away and can lead all the way. (12) STORM FORCE showed positively on debut at the beginning of September running 4th at this distance. She’ll have to overcome the widest gate but looks the biggest danger. (3) CHAMP K had a hard time running in a straight line on his first start but will hopefully have come on for the run and can improve. Among the first-timers, (10) NEW PARADIGM and (11) THANK YOU MOTHER were the best looking in trials with (1) GEUMA UPTOWN GIRL also doing nothing wrong and capable of going well first up.

Selections (8) Choegang Star (12) Storm Force (10) New Paradigm (11) Thank You Mother
Next Best 1, 3
Fast Start 7, 8, 11, 12

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

More juvenile maidens although this time seven of the twelve making their racecourse debuts. Once more we’ll side with experience though and both (10) BAKCHAOREUM and (11) GYORYONG UNU come in with 2nd places to their name. That doesn’t tell the whole story with Gyoryong Unu. Having looked very good in a trial, he was sent off hot favourite on debut in August but having looked in command at the top of the stretch, he lost all momentum and ended up 2nd. Then in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup at the end of September, he was on the receiving end of some bumping at the start and unseated his rider. Surely, his luck changes today. If it doesn’t, then Bakchaoreum could take advantage. Her 2nd place was a little more straightforward and showed plenty of promise. (7) NAREUDUSI was 4th in the same race and can improve too. Among the debut-makers, (4) CHODONG BOBAE and (9) MEDICI POWER look to have the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections (11) Gyoryong Unu (10) Bakchaoreum (7) Nareudusi (4) Chodong Bobae
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 2, 5, 6, 7, 11

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

(2) HANEUL ACE beat three of these on her way to 2nd place in a similar all-filly race at this distance on September 9th. That came off the back of a 3rd place the time before and she can come home on top today. (6) SUN QUEEN was slowly away last time but ran on well, something she has done twice now. She steps up in trip for the first time and the extra distance could well suit. Nine months separated (3) TONGHAP SIDAE’s first and second starts but she ran well in both of them and can be a danger here. (4) CHEONNYEON HAPPY had some bad luck in running last start a month ago but still came home a not too far away 5th, beating a couple of these. (5) GYEONGGUKJIMA ran a very good 3rd on debut back in June but struggled on reappearance a month later. She comes in fresh after thirteen weeks off and is worth another chance here.

Selections (2) Haneul Ace (6) Sun Queen (3) Tonghap Sidae (5) Gyeonggukjima
Next Best 4, 1
Fast Start 2, 5, 8

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

(1) BEST MAID was just beaten half a length into 2nd place over class and distance on September 15th, beating a couple of these along the way. It continued a run of near-misses for her and she is very much he one to beat today. (8) STRONG LIGHT was one of those behind Best Maid that day and it was actually reversal of form as Strong Light has twice recently finished ahead of her. She can get close again although stronger challenges may come from (2) DAESEONG RUBY and (4) BIG AURORA. The latter drops back in trip for the first time since January and while he remains a maiden, he led in his last two outings and surely goes close here. (5) SURFING POINT is up in class having got her maiden win at the seventh time of asking last start and while she probably has a bit to find, she’s well drawn to get on the lead and could go well again.

Selections (1) Best Maid (2) Daeseong Ruby (4) Big Aurora (5) Surfing Point
Next Best 8, 9. 6
Fast Start 4, 5, 6, 8

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

Another set of juvenile maidens. (9) BEST LINE ran 2nd on debut on September 8th and while he was soundly beaten by a good winner, showed enough to suggest he has a bit of talent. He started very slowly and only really started to race in the last couple of furlongs. The wider draw may help him today and he’s clear favourite. (11) GLOBAL (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 20)

The main even this weekend is the Jeju Governor’s Cup at Seoul on Sunday where Busan mare Indian Star will bid to complete a hat-trick of victories in the Group 3 test. Before that though there is Friday action on the South-Coast with 11 races from 11:30 to 18:00: 

RH7_2434

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

(10) FASHION WANG hasn’t been far away in recent efforts and led for much of the way around three weeks ago at this distance before ultimately finishing 3rd. Despite the wide draw she should lead again and can provide jockey Kim Hye Sun a first winner since her return form a lengthy injury absence. (7) BAENGNICHONG was 6th that day and can improve here. The other contenders all have something of the unknown about them. (2) GOLDEN REX has struggled for fitness in his latest two but has been working consistently in the lead up to this and should go better. (3) GIPPEUM DAY returns from seven months out and is under the care of a new trainer. There are no clues from any recent trials but a top jockey is booked and she may go well. (5) TAEYANGUI CHUKJE was a good 2nd on debut behind the excellent Sun Day all the way back in March. He disappointed in his return three months later and comes in here after a further four months off.

Selections (10) Fashion Wang (7) Baengnichong (5) Taeyangui Chukje (2) Golden Rex
Next Best 3, 8
Fast Start 2, 5, 8, 10

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

Juvenile maidens here with just four of the twelve having raced before. (1) CHEONNYEONUIJILJU has raced twice, finishing a much-improved 2nd at this distance on September 28th, beating a length and a half by a good-looking winner in a fast time. He started slowly that day but ran on very well and should have too much here. Of the others with experience, (2) GOLDEN SHARP and (6) KARIN both finished 5th on their respective debuts and both will be expected to improve today. Of the first-time starters, the pick in trials was (7) GOOD DANCER. The Bart Rice-trained colt went through a couple of heats the latest of which was alongside some very experienced racehorses and he didn’t look out of place. A watching brief is advised with the rest of them although (4) DOCTOR THUNDER seemed to know what she was doing and could go well first-up. Watch the market for any clues.

Selections (1) Cheonnyeonuijilju (7) Good Dancer (6) Karin (2) Golden Sharp
Next Best 4, 9
Fast Start 2, 10

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

(9) YEONGSEONG ACE ran 2nd on debut over this distance on September 7th and while he was seven-lengths back behind a good winner, he showed enough to suggest that he has potential and can win here. (4) GIDAEHAE also ran 2nd on debut back in August. She was stepped up to 1300M for her second start five weeks ago when she finished 6th, just under a length behind (5) GOLD TICKET who was himself making his second career start. Both should be in the hunt here with Gidaehae slightly favoured back at this trip. (3) RACING GALLOPER was 3rd behind Gidaehae in that race back in August. He returns following nine weeks off and the trainer/jockey combination will attract plenty. There are two debut-makers and of the pair, (7) JOY OF LUCK looks to have the most chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections (9) Yeongseong Ace (4) Gidaehae (5) Gold Ticket (3) Racing Galloper
Next Best 7, 1
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 5

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

She’s yet to score in eight but (3) ROCK HARD QUEEN ran 4th in a significantly better race than this over this distance three weeks ago and she looks very much the one to beat here, probably looking to lead from gate to wire. She faces a very modest set of rivals, the best of which looks to be (10) GOLD TREE who ran a creditable 5th aa month ago on what was just his second career start and first at this distance. (4) WANBONG is the only one of the ten who has a top three finish to his name so far and he is third best here. Among the others we are looking for ones with the potential to improve. (1) HOT GIRL and (5) CAPTAIN COOK come closest to fitting the bill.

Selections (3) Rock Hard Queen (10) Gold Tree (4) Wanbong (5) Captain Cook
Next Best 1, 9
Fast Start 2, 3, 10

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

Both (2) YEOWANGUI GWIHWAN and (9) ARCADIA step up in class following their respective maiden wins over this distance. Both look well-equipped to cope at this level with Arcadia slightly favoured among the pair at this stage. However, they will both need to improve if they are to beat the likely favourite. That’s (4) USEUNG TICKET, who got his own maiden win in July before running a distant 2nd to Fashion Of Marine on his first try at this level in August at 1200M. He stepped down to this trip fir his latest start three weeks ago and while he only managed 6th, it was a stronger race than this and he is well worth another chance. (3) NOPIGOM NAREUSYA is another who it might be worth taking another look at, as she drops back in trip for the first time in a long time. (7) REALLY ONE was longest shot on the board when running a 4th of 12 at this distance last month (more…)

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 14)

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

Road Winner winning the JRA Trophy - KRA

JRA Trophy victor Road Winner is the one to beat in Sunday’s Seoul feature (Pic: Ross Holburt)

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

(7) EIFFEL was 3rd on debut four weeks ago and showed enough to suggest that with a little improvement he’ll be winning sooner rather than later. He’s well drawn to be on the early pace here and today can be his day. (3) SOKBO ONGJU was a slightly below par 6th in the same race but has a recent 2nd place to her name and can get closer today. (9) GOD OF SOCKS steps back to the minimum distance for the first time since running 2nd on debut in July and should be a danger, also from the front. (8) ANGELA was an improved 2nd last time albeit in weaker company than this while (2) CHEONGDAM QUEENS returns from six months out and trialed up positively at the end of September.

Selections (7) Eiffel (9) God Of Socks (3) Sokbo Ongju (2) Cheongdam Queens
Next Best 8, 1
Fast Start 2, 3, 7, 9

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

It’s maiden juvenile fillies here with four of the ten runners racing for the first time. The only one in the field to have raced twice is set to be favourite though. (8) BLACK ZAPPER was an improved 2nd when stepped up to this distance for the first time on September 1st and should have too much for this lot today. (6) HEUNG BUJA had excuses for her 9th place on debut last month but she previously won a trial and the distance today should be a better fit so improvement is expected. (1) DADDY GLORY too raced quite greenly on her debut back in August but seemed to be going in the right direction in a subsequent trial. (7) YAHO M J CAT is another of the experienced ones who can be a danger. OF the first-time starters, (3) WONDERFUL MARIA looks the pick.

Selections (8) Black Zapper (6) Heung Buja (7) Yaho M J Cat (3) Wonderful Maria
Next Best 1, 4
Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 7

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

This isn’t a particularly strong maiden but plenty come in with recent form reading well. (2) SUNSHIN MARINE hasn’t done much wrong in three efforts to date and was a useful 4th in a better race than this – albeit nine-lengths behind the winner – last time. She looks to have solid claims today. (3) DAEMYEONG SOLAR raced rather ungenerously in the home straight last start nut still managed to finish 3rd at the distance in a similar strength race to this and must be taken seriously while (9) CHEONGDAM JEPAE returned from five months off to run 2nd on September 16th. She’s the likely pace-setter here and can go one better. (5) STRIDE UP ran well enough for 4th on debut at 1000M and with some improvement in terms of manners, can get closer. (7) MIRACLE GOLD was a much improved 2nd last time out and can build on it today.

Selections (9) Cheongdam Jepae (2) Sunshin Marine (3) Daemyoung Solar (5) Stride Up
Next Best 7, 12
Fast Start 3, 9, 11

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

(6) TRI THUNDER ran out a five-length winner on debut at the distance on September 8th. The Stay Thirsty gelding is up in class here but is well drawn to lead again and could make all once more. The main danger is (4) HANIL DALBIT. While his solitary win came at 1200M and he hasn’t raced at the minimum since his debut back in January, his recent form has been very solid and he’s a very interesting entry here. He could even start as favourite. (8) DIA PUNCH is up in class after scoring at the third time of asking last month. (9) POP STREET is too although he hasn’t raced since January. He did, however, trial up in good fashion last month. Of the pair, Dia Punch is more favoured at this time. (2) BLUE ANNA and (7) MONKEY SOCKS are others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections (6) Tri Thunder (4) Hanil Dalbit (8) Dia Punch (7) Monkey Socks
Next Best 2, 1, 9
Fast Start 1, 6, 7, 9

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

(5) BURUI GORI has come close but over five starts to date has somehow managed to (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 13)

There are 12 Saturday races at Seoul from 10:4 to 18:00 and one of the stars of this year’s Triple Crown trail, Mask, 2nd in the Korean Derby, returns to action in the afternoon’s feature. Here are the previews:

Mask Gaon Champ

Mask beat Gaon Champ in the Sports Seoul Cup back in April before running 2nd in the Derby (Pic: KRA)

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maiden to begin with and precisely half of the twelve-strong field have raced before. (1) GEUMA KINGDOM is just a place-finish away from being promoted to class 5 with a 2nd and a 3rd from two outings so far, most recently at this distance. The Animal Kingdom colt is can settle just off the early lead here and should be too strong. Among the others who have raced before, (12) WONDERFUL DIXIE was a useful 3rd on debut in September while (5) RULES ICHEON and (9) WONDERFUL HENNESSY can both improve. Of the first-timers (2) GEOM HONG looks the clear pick having run away with a September trial. She’s half-sister to a couple of reasonable animals (Young Storm and Red Young Myeongun) and could have a few wins in her.

Selections (1) Geuma Kingdom (2) Geom Hong (12) Wonderful Dixie (5) Rules Icheon
Next Best 9, 7
Fast Start 2, 4

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

(3) I.B.S QUEEN ran out a four-length winner over 1000M in a fast time on September 2nd on what was her second career start. She’s up in both class and distance here but is well-drawn to get to the front early again and potentially lead all the way. The main danger is (5) SPEED HWANGNYONG, a class and distance winner on September 15th when he came from off the pace to record his second consecutive victory. He carries more weight today but will be a big threat. (4) GRAND DOLPUNG is up in class after a good win at this distance a month ago and must be taken seriously. (9) GLORY VERN ran a creditable 5th in a stiff race on his first try at this class last time out and can build on it today, while (6) DUSON WANGJA is another who could improve here

Selections (3) I.B.S. Queen (5) Speed Hwangnyong (9) Glory Vern (4) Grand Dolpung
Next Best 6, 10
Fast Start 3, 7

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

(8) FANTASTIC QUEEN enters with the most convincing recent form with a win and a 4th place, both at this distance and this class in her latest two. She wasn’t far away last time in a similar strength race and from a similar draw and she could win here. (9) JI SEONI drops back in trip today to the distance at which she landed her solitary win. It coincides with her having shown some signs of getting back into some kind of form last start and while she’s not always the best of starters, she has claims here. (4) THE PRIMA was last seen winning at this distance back in January. She’s had setbacks since and while she wasn’t hugely convincing in trials, she certainly has ability and could go well first-up. (2) BERNARDI SHOW and (6) DOUBLE A are others in the hunt.

Selections (9) Ji Seoni (8) Fantastic Queen (4) The Prima (6) Double A
Next Best 6, 1
Fast Start 1, 4, 5

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

(7) ALL THAT CHASE got his maiden win last time out at the tenth time of asking. It had been coming as well and he beat a couple of the others who return here. He’s not the quickest of starters but he can sit behind the early lead here and he could well repeat. (10) MANHATTAN MUSIC remains a maiden after eleven attempts but the Gio Ponti filly drops back in rip after a good effort at 1700M a month ago and looks firmly in contention here. (4) NASCAUI BYEOL came home 3rd at class and distance last time out and while this is a slightly better race, he can aim for a repeat. (8) MEGALIOS and (9) EOUL DEOUL are others who look nicely in to compete for at least a place.

Selections (7) All That Chase (10) Manhattan Music (8) Megalios (4) Nascaui Byeol
Next Best 9, 11
Fast Start 2, 3, 10, 11

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

This race is for juveniles only (and two southern-hemisphere three-year-olds). Five of the ten have raced before and one of them, (1) GAON QUEEN was an impressive winner. She scored by three-lengths having made all at this distance on September 9th and it’s very hard to find a reason to oppose here. (9) GOLD HAMMER was 3rd in that race and did (more…)

Sunday Seoul: KRA Cup Classic Day – Race-By-Race Preview (October 7)

It’s KRA Cup Classic Day in Seoul and Cheongdam Dokki can begin to put his Korea Cup disappointment behind him as he is set to start as favourite to successfully defend the crown he won last year. There are 11 Sunday races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:10. Here are the Seoul previews with horse by horse comments for the KRA Cup Classic:

Cheongdam Dokki Mayor's Cup Lets Run Park Busan

Cheongdam Dokki goes in the KRA Cup Classic

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

(1) JEOKTO BIMA has shown progression across three starts so far and enters with back to back 4th place finishes. Drawn in gate 1, she steps up in trip for the first time, should be prominent early and can win this. (9) GEOTAP too races for the fourth time today and ran creditably at this distance last time. She should also be on pace early and can go close. (10) GOODCHOICE is more experienced and does have a 3rd place to his name and while a touch one-paced, can improve on the 5th he recorded at this distance last start. (3) BINNANEUN RUBY and (8) FOR J.K. are others who can improve among modest company here.

Selections (1) Jeokto Bima (10) Goodchoice (9) Geotap (8) For J.K.
Next Best 3, 7
Fast Start 1, 8, 9

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

(1) HANEULEUL DALRIDA started badly and received a heavy bump which he never really recovered from when well-fancied over 1300M on September 1st. He drops back in trip today to a distance at which he was 2nd in July and with a clean start today, will be the one they need to beat in what is another weak contest. (7) SCARLET PERFECT also has a 2nd place at this distance and wasn’t too far away last time. (9) SOKBO WANGWI has been knocking on the door for some time now and is another who shouldn’t be far away. (10) STAR SOCKS is inconsistent but has offered some glimpses of ability. She races for the first time since June and should challenge for the early lead. There are two debut-makers and in a race with a distinct lack of talent in it, they must be given due consideration. Of the pair, (6) GOOD MOUNT seems the more likely to make an impact first-up.

Selections (1) Haneuleul Dalrida (7) Scarlet Perfect (9) Sokbo Wangwi (6) Good Mount
Next Best 10, 3
Fast Start 1, 8, 10

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

Juvenile maidens here and seven of the twelve have raced before, each of them just the once. The favourites are among them. (1) SENTOSA debuted in a valuable race for Breeze-up Sales graduates and ran reasonably well over 1200M. She was prominent early and dropping back to 1000M today may suit. (9) ACE SOLONGO and (10) WONDERFUL DIXIE both finished 3rd on their respective debuts, both at this distance and both can build on it here. (4) M.J. TOWN was a close in attendance 5th on her first attempt in what was a decent race on September 2nd and she too looks likely to improve. Among the first-timers, (8) IRON HEART and (12) BIG PRO looked best in trials.

Selections (1) Sentosa (4) M.J. Town (9) Ace Solongo (10) Wonderful Dixie
Next Best 5, 2
Fast Start 1, 5, 10, 12

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

(7) CHANGPA is yet to win, with a 4th and two runner-up finishes from three efforts to date but despite being up in class here, this could be her day. She has run on well in each of her outings so far and the additional furlong may suit in a race that is not much stronger than the average class 6. Indeed, her main rival is set to be another one up in class in the shape of (12) SABA KINGDOM, who ran out a five-length winner over 1000M on September 9th. He made all that day and will be trying to overcome the widest draw and the step up in trip to repeat here. Among those with experience of this level, (2) DAECHEON HERO and (4) SOKDO SHINHWA should be improving on the 6th and 7th places they recorded when they raced each other at 1000M on September 1st while (11) SPECIAL WINNER drops back in trip following a hard time at 1700M a month ago and can come into consideration.

Selections (7) Changpa (12) Saba Kingdom (2) Daecheon Hero (11) Special Winner
Next Best 4, 10
Fast Start 1, 2, 12

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

(1) TAURUS ran a good 2nd at this distance on what was his first try at this level on August 26th. He’s yet to finish outside the top two in three starts so far and he should maintain that record here. (3) BAEKSAN MENIQUEEN stepped up to this class and (more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 6)

It’s been a filthy Friday and it’s set to be a soaking Saturday as rain clouds have stalled over the Korean peninsula. Racing is set to on though with 12 races in the capital from 10:45 to 18:00.

(단신2) 출발 참관 프로그램 (2)

Sadly the weather isn’t going to look like this on Saturday (Pic: KRA)

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

(3) EUNICE enters having run 2nd in a similarly weak maiden over the distance on September 1st. She was just beaten half a length that day and given the strength (or lack thereof) of today’s opposition, she can win this. In fact, it’s so weak that twenty-one race maiden (8) GOLD SEUTAK has her best chance to date of registering a win of her own. She has two 3rd places from her latest three and should really improve on that this time. (1) SONGAM BARBIE has trialled again since debuting six weeks ago and may improve. (6) GANGSANUI ACHIM and (9) JEONGSANG GOLD are others who may trouble the place judges.

Selections (3) Eunice (8) Gold Seutak (9) Jeongsang Gold (1) Songam Barbie
Next Best 6, 10
Fast Start 3, 5, 9, 11

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

This race is restricted to juvenile maidens and five of the twelve have raced before. Among those, (2) RAON SERENA, with two 3rd place finishes, both at this distance, has been the standout and she should be at least matching those finishes today and has every chance of going even better. Of the others who have raced before, (12) MISTER HERO did nothing wrong and can build on his 7th of 11 he achieved on debut. However, the favourite is likely to be first-time starter (6) WONDERFUL TRUTH. He blitzed a trial three weeks ago and if he brings that form to the races, should have far too much. Among the others appearing for the first time, (8) DOKDO YA and (10) MAMA ROMA also won their trials and may be considered first-up.

Selections (6) Wonderful Truth (2) Raon Serena (8) Dokdo Ya (10) Mama Roma
Next Best 12
Fast Start 1, 6, 8, 12

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

More juvenile maidens here although this time we’ll side with the ones with previous experience. There are six of those in total and while (11) CHEON GI has the best finish position among them, running in 3rd on debut in mid-August, both (5) GAON FORCE and (6) WINNER BROWN ran faster times on their respective racecourse bows. Winner Brown previously made all in a trial and is well drawn today to get to the front and potentially lead all the way. Gaon Force was slowly away and with a better start, can get much closer. Among the six first-timers, (1) WHITE COMET was the most eye-catching in trials – he finished ten lengths behind Wonderful Truth from race 2 but nevertheless, looked competent. (7) GEUMSEONGHWANGJE too put in a promising trial effort and could go well. As ever with the first-time starters, watch the market for additional clues.

Selections (6) Winner Brown (5) Gaon Force (1) White Comet (7) Geumseonghwangje
Next Best 11, 12
Fast Start 3, 4, 6, 8

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

Across three starts so far, (4) TOHAMSAN POWER has finished no worse than 5th and while he only managed 4th of 8 on his latest effort at this distance the margins weren’t big, and he overcame some bumping at the start to still run well. He’s very much the one they need to beat here. His two main rivals here, (1) HARD PRINCESS and (2) HWANSANGUI BIT both endured difficult starts in their respective latest outings too, but both ran well to record what was for both a first runner-up finish. They seem to have a bit more to find than Tohamsan Power, but both should be aiming to at least place. (3) MAX THUNDER steps back up in trip after some encouraging showings at 1000M while (7) SAMAE STAR looks to be on the improve too and shouldn’t be too far away.

Selections (4) Tohamsan Power (2) Hwansangui Bit (1) Hard Princess (3) Max Thunder
Next Best 7, 5
Fast Start 2, 3, 4

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

(4) ROMAN BLADE has already come up short when favourite a couple of times but ran well enough when 3rd behind a couple of useful horses at class and distance on September 1st. He was drawn in the widest gate that day and breaking from a more favourable position this time can get on pace early and potentially lead all the way. (10) SHANGHAI JORDAN was a winner on debut and has held his own in two starts since. He lost ground at the start in his latest effort on September 8th but rallied well for 5th and looks to be the main danger here. (7) INDIAN ECO too put in a decent performance in 3rd at class and distance last time and can build on that here. (5) SUJEBI is up in class having (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 5)

There are 11 Friday races at Busan from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Silver Wolf Power Blade Busan Ilbo 2018

It’s Friday. It’s Busan

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

(9) YEONGSEONG STAR was a close 3rd on debut on September 7th, leading for much of the race and she’ll be firm favourite to get her maiden win here. She should get to the front straight from the gate and lead all the way. Having debuted all the way back last October, (5) MORNING BRAVO returned to run a good 2nd at the end of August and along with (3) POWER AMAZING, who has run 3rd and 5th in two outings to date, look to be the main dangers to the favourite. (2) GRADE QUEEN and (6) TONGIL HANGUK are others who have hinted at some ability and can improve.

Selections (9) Yeongseong Star (3) Power Amazing (5) Morning Bravo (6) Tongil Hanguk
Next Best 2, 7
Fast Start 5, 6, 8, 9

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

All twelve of these juveniles are racing for the very first time. Thomas Gillespie’s (6) SILLAUI MISO was the most expensive of these ad was the only one to win her trial, prevailing with an all the way effort in a heat in early September. She has solid claims for an in-form stable. Emerging from the same trial, (1) RAON ARES looks to have plenty of potential too. He looked competent in that heat running an unhurried 2nd and is likely to be joining Sillaui Miso on the early pace here. (11) TANGENT also showed some ability in trials, running 2nd in a well-run heat three weeks ago. Further back in that one but doing nothing wrong was (4) LUCKY NUMBER ONE who, coming from Kim Young Kwan’s stable, is bound to be backed. (12) PRECEDE trialed up alongside some very experienced racehorses and didn’t look out of place and he too can go well first-up.

Selections (6) Sillaui Miso (1) Raon Ares (11) Tangent (12) Precede
Next Best 4, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 6

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

(8) SMART BANK came desperately close to getting his maiden win three weeks ago, just going down by a neck at this distance. That continued an encouraging run of recent form and he could well go one better today. (5) SPERO SPERA and (9) SONGAK MYEONGJANG both enter off the back of positive efforts and both should be challenging for at least places here. (2) EL DRAGON returns from a five-month lay-off and trialed up well in mid-September. He’ll be expected to be on the early speed along with (6) WILD CASH, who has two 3rd places among her latest three outings and can look to at least match those today.

Selections (8) Smart Bank (5) Spero Spera (9) Songak Myeongjang (6) Wild Cash
Next Best 2, 7
Fast Start 2, 6, 7

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

Tricky contest here but (8) CHEONNYEONUI ACHIM was a class and distance winner on September 7th with a couple of these well back behind him and though he carries an additional 3.5kg today, he’s the one they’ll need to beat again. (2) BUGYEONG BOLT enters off the back of a pair of solid 2nd place finishes at 1200M. He’s been runner-up at this distance in the past and can get close today. (6) EURO SHINHWA has a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts at this level since getting his maiden win back in June and should be a danger also. (12) YEONGGWANGUI SIDAE is up in class having registered her maiden win with an all the way score over this distance three weeks ago. While she’ll need to overcome the widest draw today, she looks to have the potential for more.

Selections (8) Cheonnyeonui Achim (12) Yeonggwangui Sidae (2) Bugyeong Bolt (6) Euro Shinhwa
Next Best 1, 4
Fast Start 6, 8, 9, 12

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

(2) RED CLOUD returns to racing for the first time since early March. He raced six times prior to the layoff, finishing 2nd in no fewer than five of them. He looked good winning a trial three weeks ago and this could be his day on what will be his first try at a mile. There’s a bit of a “red” theme about this race. (8) BIG RED IJI ran a good 2nd at this distance on September 9th and should be the main danger. He’ll be ridden patiently and (more…)