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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

Some Spectators to Return To Korean Racecourses This Week

++Update – As of Wednesday afternoon, the re-opening to spectators has been postponed for at least one week++

For the first time since February, some spectators will be admitted to Seoul, Busan and Jeju Racecourses from this Friday, July 24th. Numbers will be limited and attendance is only possible by pre-booking using the KRA’s “My Card” application. Off-track betting locations will remain closed for at least another two weeks.

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Seoul Racecourse has been ready for weeks

The reopening is in line with public facilities in the Seoul area such as libraries and museums, which have begun reopening from this week. Korea’s other main wagering outlet, track cycling, will also open its doors again this weekend.

Since the resumption of the sport on June 19th, racing has been held behind closed doors and with the country not allowing online or telephone betting, there has been no legal outlet for wagering. Owners have been allowed to attend since the restart and have been betting in small amounts.

Admission will only be available to users of the My Card application and must be pre-booked through the app the day before the race meeting. Attendees will need to pass a health screening on arrival at the track, along with verification of identity and contact details to enable contact-tracing if necessary. Seats will be pre-assigned with the grandstands at all three racecourses having been reconfigured to allow for distancing. The maximum permitted attendance is approximately 10% of the usual number.

Cheongdam Dokki Monsters YTN Cup Rivals In Record Busting Romp

For the second time in a month, Cheongdam Dokki savaged his rivals over 2000M at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday, claiming an easy win in the G3 YTN Cup and in the process broke Dongbanui Gangja’s eleven-year-old track record for the distance.

Just four weeks after his dominant victory in the Herald Business Cup and facing a largely similar set of opponents, Cheongdam Dokki was always set to be a prohibitive favourite in a race which served as the second leg of the “Stayer Series”. And just as he did in the Herald, he stamped his authority on the race right from the start, crossing from gate eight under jockey Park Tae Jong and straight into the lead.

At his best, Cheongdam Dokki’s cruising speed is so superior to his local rivals at least in the absence of Moonhak Chief – that there was never a danger of him doing too much too soon and being caught. Instead he continued to run away from them, recording a nine-length winning margin on the line and taking six tenths of a second off the mark set by Dongbanui Gangja in the Owners’ Association Trophy in June 2009.

Behind Cheongdam Dokki, Tiz Plan and Shamrocker came home 2nd and 3rd in a repeat of the Herald Business trifecta. Buhwarui Banseok ran 4th.

The final leg of the Stayer Series is the G2 Busan Mayor’s Cup which is currently scheduled for August 16th at the slightly shorter distance of 1800M. All being well, Cheongdam Dokki would then likely be pointed to the Korea Cup on September 13th, the KRA Cup Classic on October 11th and then conclude his year taking another crack at a race that so far eludes him, the Grand Prix Stakes.

A six-year-old American-bred gelding by To Honor And Serve and out of Elusive Gold (by Strike The Gold), Cheongdam Dokki has now won 15 of 29 career starts for prize money of just over KRW 2.8 Billion.

YTN Cup Day Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 19)

It’s Dokki Day in Seoul! Cheongdam Dokki roared back into form winning the Herald Business Cup a month ago. On Sunday afternoon he faces familiar rivals in the G3 YTN Cup. The YTN is the feature on a 14-race Sunday program which runs from 10:25 to 18:00, There is also a 5-race card at Busan. Here are the previews:

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Cheingdam Dokki beat Tiz Plan, Shamrocker (hidden) and Rock Hard Seven in the Herald Business. All four return in the YTN (Pic: KRA)

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

Twelve juvenile maidens go around in the opener with all but one racing for the very first time. This is one of those occasions, however, when we need to side with experience because (10) OXFORD KING put in an extremely encouraging debut on June 21st, finishing in 2nd place at this distance. The Summer Front colt previously posted trial times that were quicker than any of the first-timers here have managed and despite the wide draw, he should win. As for those first-timers, (3) BRIGHT VICTOR won her trial leading all the way and can be expected to push for the early lead here from a favourable draw. (1) K N TEUKGEUP looked comfortable in his heat when recording a useful time and the trainer/jockey combination will ensure he has plenty of support first up. (9) THE KING BLADE and (11) ROYAL YEONGGWANG are others to keep an eye on.

Selections (10) Oxford King (1) K N Teukgeup (3) Bright Victor (9) The King Blade
Next Best 11, 8
Fast Start 2, 3, 7, 10

 

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

The Korean-bred three-year-old gallopers line up in the second event. (5) ROCK BEAT looks hard to beat after finishing second on debut last start behind Wonderful Storm, when clocking a quick time. The filly sat on speed last start, barrier five will allow rider Ha Jung-hun to let his mount roll forward and ask her for an effort at the top of the straight. (8) AFLEET MARINE finished just behind Rock Beat last start finishing third in the same event. The filly settled further back however before making up ground in the second half of the race. (4) SPRING COME resumes after finishing second back in February before the hiatus. The chestnut trialed up in fair style, with a good draw he should get an economic run and is capable of filling a place. (6) LEGEND WIN drops back to the five furlongs after finishing third behind Yaho Golden Cat last start. He tried to lead throughout last start, we imagine the tactics here will be to work forward early and try and hold off the late runs of his opposition.

Selections (5) Rock Beat (8) Afleet Marine (4) Spring Come (6) Legend Win
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 5, 6

 

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

Competitive maiden for three-year-olds here. (3) GRACE QUEEN ran a good 3rd on debut on June 20th at this distance and although well back behind a good winner, showed progress from her trials and she looks like she’ll be in the winner’s circle before too long. She’ll be aiming to get on pace from the start and she can win. (1) K.N. POWER ran 5th in the same race and also has scope for improvement. Across her trials and debut she’s looked like she may want further but will be competitive again in this company. (4) BEST FAMILY was slightly slower in her debut on June 21st but rallied well for 4th and can build on that today. Draw a line through the performance of (9) EAST ONE three weeks ago as he stumbled at the start and never really recovered. He has found the minor placings a couple of times already though and should go close here. (11) MAY BLUE looks to be figuring things out and ran a strong 3rd at this distance two weeks ago. The draw does her no favours but if she overcome that to get a forward position, she has more than a chance. (2) POTENTIAL ENERGY caught the eye when winning a June trial and looks set to improve.

Selections (3) Grace Queen (1) K. N. Power (11) May Blue (9) East One
Next Best 2, 4, 12
Fast Start 3, 4, 11

 

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

Another bunch of three-year-old gallopers line up in the fourth, this time going over the 1400m. (3) OLD BLADE looks the one to beat after showing a good turn of foot last time out to finish second behind Blue K. She should appreciate the services of Moon Se-young combined with the minor step up to the 1400m. (12) THE DREAM looks next best after sitting on speed when resuming and finishing second to Top Seed. The chestnut will have to overcome the outside gate early to be given a winning chance. (2) POWER MUSIC hit the line well last start when fifth in the event that Old Blade lined up in. If the filly can settle closer she can run into the money. (6) THUNDER WIND looks next best after finishing second behind Meotjin Seungbu. The time was not overly quick but he appears and each way commodity in the race.

Selections (3) Old Blade (12) The Dream (2) Power Music (6) Thunder Wind
Next Best 5, 8
Fast Start 4, 12

 

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

(4) BALBATU steps up in class having secured his maiden win at the third time of asking over 1200M on June 20th. He actually started poorly that day, spotting his rivals a few lengths with a lazy start but went on to run them down pleasingly and that suggests the increase in trip won’t trouble him unduly today. (7) SPEED HEUKRYONG drops back in trip having run 2nd to Milky Sherry over 1700M on June 20th. He put in a strong front-running performance in that race and can be expected to be on speed again with solid claims to be involved at the business end of the race. (5) LUXURY CAPTAIN has a track record of being a bit of a pain to deal with as he proved two weeks ago when starting badly and then racing ungenerously throughout. He does have a bit of talent about him though and with improved manners can be a danger. (1) GOD OF SOCKS resumes for the first time since the restart and is another with ability in this company. (8) BARAMUI MISO and (9) FLYING JOY others in the placing frame. There is very little early speed engaged here so the latter of that pair may find it easy to get to the front.

Selections (4) Balbatu (7) Speed Heukryong (1) God Of Socks (8) Baramui Miso
Next Best 5, 9
Fast Start 1, 9

 

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

The three-year-old imports line up in the second event as they all look for their maiden victory. (2) ARA ROSE resumed in good style last time out when clocking a quick time to finish second behind Geuma Mystic. She positioned behind the speed last time out before hitting the line strong, a similar performance from a handy draw should see her go close. (4) WORLD TOP resumes after a good trial in April. At his last start he finished third behind Babel Hit over the 1200m, back in February. He sat closer to the speed at his second start which he should be able to do so once again with a good draw. (7) HWANHUIUI BANSEOK lines up for his first race start after a couple of trials. They clocked a fair time in his most recent trial suggesting he can run into the money. (1) ROYAL PENNANT comes out of the same race as Ara Rose where the chestnut finished fifth, yielding some ground in the straight. If he can show some improvement, he can collect a cheque.

Selections (2) Ara Rose (4) World Top (7) Hwahuiui Banseok (1) Royal Pennant
Next Best 8, 5
Fast Start 1, 4

 

Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

The fillies and mares will line up against each other in the sixth where there is plenty of speed engaged. (5) JEONGSEONG STAR resumes after an encouraging first preparation. The filly placed on numerous occasions before being promoted to this grade, where she broke maiden status last start over the 1200m. She trialed up in fast time in April and looks ready to put her best foot forward fresh. (11) GOOD WONDER looks one that will (more…)

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

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

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Seoul Racecourse will be empty again this weekend

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Perovic

Perovic is back – this time at Busan

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

Bart Rice Reaches 200 Not-Out At Busan

A field of ten will face the starter at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday in the YTN Cup but of them only two will have made the trip up from Busan. Both of the southern raiders for the Group 3 test, Buhwarui Banseok and Rock Hard Seven, are trained by Bart Rice, who earlier this month saddled his 200th Korean winner.

Bart Rice

Bart Rice arrived in Korea in late 2013 having trained in South Africa, and sent out his first runners in January of 2014, making an immediate impact as his first Busan starter, Gyeongnam Sinhwa, came home an 8/1 winner. He quickly built up an impressive strike rate, something he has managed to maintain over the subsequent years and brought up his 100th winner in May of 2017.

The latest milestone for Rice arrived on July 3rd when first-time starter Mr. Fusion took out race 3 at Busan under jockey Seo Seung-un wearing the colours of owners Isidore Farm, leading from the gate and winning by ten-lengths on what was his very first start. It was a win that surprised his trainer as much as anyone.

“He (Mr. Fusion) hopefully is above class 6 but to be honest I didn’t expect him to win” Rice told KRBC. “He’s inexperienced and I thought he would need the race, but he managed to get to the front and then didn’t have any kickback”.

As for the double-century, Rice was understated. “For me it’s been a long time to get the 200 winners. I would have liked it to be a little bit faster than that but we’re happy we’ve done it. We try to be as professional as we can in my stable and appreciate the owners’ support”.

Rice may be yet to saddle a Group winner in Korea but he has taken out a number of valuable races and has sent horses from his stable to run in both Singapore and Dubai. He currently lies in 4th place in the Busan Trainer’s Premiership in what has been an interrupted 2020 racing season.

With horses such as the pair who race in Seoul on Sunday as well as the progressive Ssonsal, who won his first class 1 race last weekend and holds an entry to the SBS Sports Sprint later this month among his forty-three strong string, Rice is putting together a formidable looking team.

“I don’t really have a plan” Rice said when asked of his future goals. “We just try to get as many wins as we can. When we get to three hundred we will celebrate but I don’t really have a plan” he continued before paying tribute to his staff in what has been a challenging year. “We didn’t race for a long time but my staff always seem to be happy and bubbly and they’ve done a good job.”

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

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

Dia Road Jeju Governor's Cup

Dia Road will line up in the TJK Trophy at Seoul

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

20200522_115513.jpg

It will be empty at Seoul again

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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