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

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

Always Winner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RH7_2659

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RH7_2434

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gaon Champ KRA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Choinma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seo Seung Un Glitter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ryan Curatolo Rides 1st Korean Winner

It hasn’t taken Ryan Curatolo too long to settle in at Seoul. The well-traveled jockey notched his first Korean winner on Sunday, guiding Stride Up to victory in race 2.

https://twitter.com/RyanCuratolo/status/1132577565716049920

It was Curatolo’s second weekend in the saddle at Seoul and he spoke prior to racing:

https://twitter.com/KRAOfficial/status/1132094424937185280

Stride Up was Curatolo’s tenth ride in Korea and started at odds of 9/1. The only horse he has ridden so far to start at shorter was 5/1 Cheongdam Tiger a week earlier, who finished 2nd.

Moonhak Chief Bosses YTN Cup As Cheongdam Dokki & New Legend Falter

All year the YTN Cup has had a red ring around it as the day when Cheongdam Dokki and New Legend would meet. Not on the agenda was that both would be beaten. However, that’s what happened at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday as Moonhak Chief thoroughly trounced all rivals to win they 2nd leg of the Stayers’ Series by 12-lengths.

The doubts had started to creep in about New Legend, a Korean-bred horse who began his career in the USA, picking up a win at Arlington Park before returning to Korea in early autumn last year. He won his early domestic contests with ease before coming up short when tried at 1200M in April’s Busan Ilbo Cup. Nevertheless, he was sent off as the 4/1 second-favourite in the thirteen strong field.

Cheongdam Dokki had also struggled when asked to sprint in March but the phenom had returned to form with a facile victory in the Herald Business Cup, the first leg of the Stayers’, a month ago and that led him to begin as the long odds-on favourite to claim his second YTN.

Moonhak Chief finished as runner-up in the Herald Business, a full six-lengths behind Cheongdam Dokki, but on Sunday he looked a winner all the way.

20190526_165113.jpg

It wasn’t close…

“I actually had no intention to lead” said jockey Moon Se Young, after partnering Moonhak Chief to a gate-to-wire win in strikingly similar fashion to how the rider won the Korean Derby on Wonderful Fly two weeks ago. “But Cheongdam Dokki didn’t go like I expected him to, so I found myself in front and took it from there”.

That was somewhat modest from Moon when talking about what was a very good ride. Once in front, he shut the race down in the back straight conserving plenty of energy before asking for an effort after turning for home that put his mount out of sight. The winning time was just half a second outside the track record for the 2000M and it is debatable as to whether an even in top-form Cheongdam Dokki could have caught him.

As for Cheongdam Dokki, he didn’t have his usual zip from the gate and to his outside  Argo Brain made a nuisance of himself for the first hundred metres or so. Subsequently though, always at least three wide and non-responsive to his jockey’s urgings rounding the final turn, he never looked a winner, ultimately trailing home in 5th.

Cheongdam Dokki passed the immediate veterinary examination and unless something shows up later, it seems likely that Antonio Da Silva will end up the unlucky fall guy. He didn’t do anything wrong at all – Cheongdam Dokki was simply not in the mood for racing on Sunday – but this is Korean racing and Dokki’s owner is not renowned for being shy about changing things up on a regular basis.

New Legend ran a solid, if one-paced race in 4th. He was in 3rd or 2nd most of the way around but failed to kick on at the business end of the race. A month ago, he was Korea’s biggest hope for the International races in September, there are now plenty of question marks hanging over him. He will hopefully get a chance to show recent form has been a blip, in the Busan Mayor’s Cup at the end of June.  That will likely be Cheongdam Dokki’s shot at redemption too.

Old campaigner Shamrocker did what he does and mopped up the pieces late on to snatch 2nd place. It was the six-year-old’s tenth runner-up finish on his 34th start. He spent his three and four-year-old season chasing Clean Up Joy and then his five-year-old season in futile pursuit of Cheongdam Dokki. In Moonhak Chief, there is perhaps another whose posterior he can watch vanishing into the distance. Not many others will beat him though.

Revelation of the race was Jumbo Blade. The four-year-old was, along with the winner and Shamrocker, the only one truly going well in the closing stages and the four-year-old Mineshaft colt got up for 3rd under Franco Da Silva on what was just his thirteenth career start. He has the same owner as Cheongdam Dokki.

Moonhak Chief is four-year-old American-bred colt by Pioneerof The Nile and out of Tallullah Lula (by Old Trieste).

Next weekend there is a double-helping of Graded Stakes action at Seoul with both the SBS Sports Sprint and Ttukseom Cup taking place on Sunday.

YTN Cup Day: Cheongdam Dokki/New Legend – Race-By-Race Preview (May 26)

Cheongdam Dokki defends his YTN Cup crown in the main event of a busy Sunday’s racing (11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:10).  Seoul’s top rated horse races up and comer Moonhak Chief as well as New Legend, five from six in Korea, in the showpiece race over 2000M.

 

Cheongdam Dokki Mayor's Cup Lets Run Park Busan

Cheongdam Dokki is set to defend the YTN Cup (Pic: KRA)

Cheongdam Dokki is set to be prohibitive favourite for the race although New Legend’s only defeat in Korea so far came at a sprint distance in the Busan Ilbo Cup last month. Although Korean-bred, he began his racing career in the United States. On his only previous try at today’s distance, he demolished the rest of the field although this time, the company will be significantly stiffer.

Baekmunbaekdap, Moonhak Chief and the ever-reliable Shamrocker are among others expected to compete for at least the placings. Here is the horse-by-horse preview for every race at Seoul and Busan on Sunday. The YTN Cup is race 9 at Seoul.

Seoul Race 1: Class 5 (1000m) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

  1. FINAL STORM – Ran through the line fairly last start when trying to lead throughout. The four-year-old will be suited by the five furlongs once again. Each way chance.
  2. GREEN Y – Has finished well back at all four starts this preparation. Prefer others.
  3. SMART DREAM – Demoted to Class 5 company after numerous poor performance in tougher company. Hard to suggest.
  4. GOLD SEUTAK – Twenty-eight start maiden who hasn’t looked threatening for quite some time.
  5. YEONGWONHAN SUNGAN – First run since December last year. Place chance at best first up after running some handy performances last preparation in similar company.
  6. JEOKTO BIMA – Class 6 winner two starts back and followed it up with a five length defeat last start when finishing seven lengths behind Super Yeowang. Can figure with the right run.
  7. GEUM STAR – Third career start for the Clear Attempt filly. Saluted at her first run and then beaten over thirteen lengths when stepping up in Class 5. Missed the start last time out and will benefit if she can get out of the gates in quick fashion.
  8. EOMJI YEOWANG – Eighteenth career start looking for her second win. Performed well for Alan Munro last start when coming from the tail to finish second. Each way chance.

VERDICT: From the inside barrier (1) FINAL STORM will get every opportunity to steal this race. He looks as if he can run a strong enough 1000m that they may struggle to catch him. (8) EOMJI YEOWANG responded to the riding of Alan Munro last start when closing strongly. (7) GEUM STAR can figure if she jumps away cleanly. (6) JEOKTO BIMA looking to bounce back.

Selections (1) Final Storm (8) Eomji Yeowang (7) Geum Star (6) Jeokto Bima
Next Best 3, 5
Fast Start 1, 6

 

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

  1. INDIAN ECO – Been well tried in this company and has struggled to figure of late. Drops back to the 1300m which appears to assist her chances however this looks tough.
  2. SILVER LION – Hard to suggest on her twenty-one start career to date. The five-year-old has managed to finish in the top three on three occasions. Rough place chance.
  3. DURI – Six start maiden who has hit the line strongly at her past few starts. 1300m ideal.
  4. HANSEN BAROWS – Speedy type who should ping the gates and work forward early. Much improved effort last start and should not be discounted.
  5. CHANGSEONG GANGJA – Dropped back to the 1300m last start when beat by a big margin. Prefer others.
  6. BUCKETFUL GOLD – Racing well and looks one of the main chances engaged. Finished fourth last start in similar company when beaten six lengths. Runs prior were good including a second and a win in Class 6 company. Keep safe.
  7. DAEHAN ILPUM – Sent out at a short quote his past couple of starts and disappointed on both occasions. Needs to improve.
  8. STRIDE UP – Looks a good chance for new jockey Ryan Curatalo. Disappointing last time out when missing the kick and struggling to recover on a muddy track. Runs prior were promising. Has to overcome 57kg.
  9. GOD OF SOCKS – Has finished well back in recent runs and hard to make a case for in this event.
  10. CHACACHACACHA – Yet to place from eight starts. Hard to suggest.
  11. ROYAL TANK – Nineteen start maiden who will most likely struggle from an outside gate.
  12. K. GUNJU – Broke through at his third career start when leading throughout over the 1300m. Expect Park Eul Woon to bustle the three-year-old out of the gates and get on speed.

VERDICT: (4) HANSEN BAROWS has improved of late and is normally competitive in this class. (12) P.K. GUNJU may prove hard to run down should he find the lead from the outside gate. (8) STRIDE UP was racing well prior to last start when missing the jump. (6) BUCKETFUL GOLD appears an each-way chance.

Selections (4) Hansen Barows (12) P.K. Gunju (8) Stride Up (6) Bucketful Gold
Next Best 3, 1
Fast Start 4, 6, 7, 12

 

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300m) Special Weight C / KRW 40 Million

  1. MANSEOK JIGI – Resumed last start when finishing fifth in muddy conditions. Should hold a position in the first half of the field.
  2. SPADE MASHIE – Stepped up to the 1700m last start where he appeared to struggle to run through the line strong. Drops back to the 1300m where he has shown some good form. Each way chance.
  3. FAMILY PARK – Ran through the line better than some last start but would need to improve to figure.
  4. SUHO – Well fancied last start but disappointed when only managing to finish sixth. Previous runs were strong enough to fill a place. Keep safe.
  5. SOARA HEUKJANGGUN – Produced a fast sectional to finish fourth last start over the 1300m. Previous runs have been one paced.
  6. DOUBLE DUNDAS – Second career start in this event after finishing well back on debut. Looks safely held.
  7. EAGLE EYE – Debut was fair when finishing fourth and overcoming a wide gate. Expect improvement at her second start.
  8. HUSH DAEBO – Testa Matta colt making his debut for trainer Jeon Seung Gyu. Finished third in a moderate time. Moon Se Young rode in the trial and retains the ride which may be a good lead.
  9. HWANGGEUM DOYAJI – Eye-catching run last start when coming from the tail to finish third. Step up to the 1300m will suit the three-year-old.
  10. JAENEUNG CHUNGMAN – Third start for the Colors Flying filly after a good effort to finish third last start behind Running Box. Lim Gi Won to be legged aboard.
  11. CITY SONGAM – Debuted last start when sent out unwanted by punters. Managed to finish midfield and one that may improve with more racing experience.

VERDICT: (9) HWANGGEUM DOYAJI appears one that will appreciate the step up allowing her to wind up. (2) SPADE MASHIE is aided by a good gate and did not see the 1700m out strongly last start. The 1300m will suit. (10) JAENEUNG CHUNGMAN has the services of polished hoop Lim Gi Won. (4) SUHO can bounce back after a poor performance.

Selections (9) Hwanggeum Doyaji (2) Spade Mashie (10) Jaeneung Chungman (4) Suho
Next Best 7, 1
Fast Start 1, 2, 7

 

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

  1. FIORE – Has been struggling to figure in races of similar strength. Would need to improve to figure.
  2. GEUMSEONGHWANGJE – Solid start to the three-year-old’s career winning two from six starts along with a handful of places. Ran second behind Nimui Hyanggi last start in similar company. One of the main chances.
  3. BEYOND OVER – Back marker who leaves herself too much to do come the top of the straight. If she can sit closer she can be considered an each-way chance.
  4. DAEGIL SANGJON – Has struggled since entering Class 4 company. Alan Munro has his first ride on the four-year-old. Needs to improve.
  5. YEOKDAE CHOEGO – Sensational win last start in Class 5 company when running on from a midfield position. Featherweight of 52kg puts him right in this race.
  6. ISCRA – Antonio Davielson has his first ride on the four-year-old. Punters have sent him out at short quotes his past few starts but has struggled to figure. Do not discount but needs to find a few lengths to place.
  7. SOMETHING NOBODYNO – Korean bred who has started off his career in good style. Promoted to this company after successive places in Class 5 company. Expect to sit on speed but will find this harder. 1300m should suit the three-year-old son of Simon Pure.
  8. SUPER YEOWANG – Another progressive type who is firing early on in her career. Has led at all three starts to date this preparation. Steps up in grade but has taken all before her so far.
  9. SIMON RICH – Looks safely held in a race full of speed.
  10. HANEULUI STAR – Lightly raced five-year-old who is having his third start this preparation. Ran second when resuming over the 1000m and then midfield at his second start back. Place chance.
  11. JILPUNG GANGJA – Went through the lower grades with ease but has found this type of company tougher. First time stretched out to the 1300m and needs to improve to figure.
  12. TIAGO TOUCH – Has previously won in Class 4 company and should be respected in this event with just 54kg. May be forced to settle rearwards from the gate.

VERDICT: (2) GEUMSEONGHWANGJE looks right in this with the good draw. Showed last start he can prove competitive in this grade. (5) YEOKDAE CHOEGO looks to be suited by the 1300m. (7) SOMETHING NOBODYNO is progressive and one to follow. (6) ISCRA is an each-way chance based on what we’ve seen from him to date.

Selections (2) Geumseonghwangje (5) Yeokdae Choego (7) Something Nobodyno (6) Iscra
Next Best 3, 11
Fast Start 2, 6, 7, 8

 

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200m) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

  1. BLACK SPIRIT – Looking to break maiden status at start fifteen. Produced a better performance last time out when second behind Songam Barbie. On the two-week back up and drops back to the 1200m.
  2. SABA KINGDOM – Finally drawn an inside gate after a run of wide barriers. He led throughout when he broke maiden status five starts back in Class 6 company so look for Johan Victoire to be positive out of the gates. Form of last has been poor and needs to improve.
  3. WINNER SAY – Henny Hughes filly who broke through for a 2.5L win last time out over the 1000m in Class 6 company. Showed improvement last start to win and should be kept safe once again.
  4. GENERAL ROSE – All three career starts have been encouraging including a win in Class 6 company. Stepped up to the 1300m last start and accounted for herself well when fourth behind Udaeryung.
  5. KAHINAH – Broke through for her maiden win last start when Moon Se Young was legged aboard for the first time. Won by a nose last start and this looks tougher. 1300m suits.
  6. WANY K – Hard to suggest on recent form when well beaten in events similar to class of this race. Prefer others.
  7. SOBAEK YEONGJU – First time beyond 1000m this preparation. Found himself midfield last start and ran on well to finish fourth. Each way chance.
  8. EAGLE SKY – Fifth run this preparation. Placed at big odds last time out with just 51kg on his back. Has to carry 56kg in this event as he steps back up to 1300m and looks a hard task.
  9. ACE ZAPPER – Dropped back to Class 5 company four starts back and has still struggled.
  10. FIRE – Been quite some time since we have seen an encouraging performance from him. Looks safely held here.
  11. WINNER CROWN – Broke through two starts back when sent out by punters at a short quote. Followed his win up with a midfield finish in Class 5 company overcoming a wide gate. No easier today.
  12. WONDERFUL HENNESSY – Has speed to burn and should work forward early on from the outside gate. Been gobbled up in the home straight at her past couple when managing to hold on for a place.

(more…)

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

It’s turned warm across the Korean peninsula the past couple of days with temperatures nudging into the 30’s for the first time this year. There are 11 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00:

RH7_2659

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

Weak but competitive maiden to open with. We’ll go with (12) KOOKA CAT to defy the widest gate and claims the spoils. Having won a trial in March, he beat a couple of these on is way to 5th place on debut four weeks ago and looks to have the most potential for quick improvement. (4) DALLYEORA SOKBO was a significantly improved 4th on his latest outing three weeks ago and can continue his progress here while (10) WONDEFUL MARINE and (11) QUEEN STREET have both hinted at some ability and can win money in this type of company. (5) SIMON QUEEN steps up in trip for the first time and the jockey booking will have some taking note.

Selections (12) Kooka Cat (4) Dallyeora Sokbo (10) Wonderful Marine (5) Simon Queen
Next Best 11, 8
Fast Start 2, 3, 7, 10

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

The first two-year-old of the season is spotted here although (1) GAGANA didn’t offer much in his trial and won’t be fancied in this maiden. (4) SAMAE JILJU is the most experienced in this field and accordingly is the one to beat. She was a close at hand 4th last start and won’t need to improve very much to win this. (5) SINGSING JANGSU offered little on debut all the way back in January but was competent and fast, albeit on a wet track, in a trial at the end of April and will be expected to go much better today. (8) AUSPICE was a touch disappointing on his debut in March but previously trialled well and should have come on for the experience. (9) CUPID YEOWANG has a2nd place to her name already and can’t be completely overlooked while of the first-time starters, (12) GEUMA IMPECCABLE looks the pick.

Selections (4) Samae Jilju (8) Auspice (5) Singsing Jangsu (12) Geuma Impeccable
Next Best 9, 1
Fast Start 2, 4, 6, 8

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) VICTORY MAY has a 4th and a 2nd in two starts so far, both at this distance. She led for much of her latest outing on April 13th only to be taken down late by a good winner and should have too much for this field. (8) CAPTAIN BEST was poor on debut on a wet track to the extent that he was sent back to trial. He came through that rather well and can improve today. Of the debut-makers, (2) BISAYEON looks the pick. While his half-siblings have been ordinary, to say the least, he looked good trialling in April and can go well in this modest company first-up. (9) NONSTOP HAENGJIN and (10) COLORS WING are others in the hunt.

Selections (5) Victory May (2) Bisayeon (8) Captain Best (9) Nonstop Haengjin
Next Best 10, 1
Fast Start 2, 5, 8, 12

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

Maiden fillies only. (8) TO THE VICTORY has been getting closer and was 3rd last time out on a muddy track at this distance on April 28th. She only needs a top three finish to be up in class next time and she can exit the bottom level of racing with a win here. (3) HWANGGEUM STAR overcame a poor start to run an improved 5th on what was just her second appearance last month. She can continue to improve today, while (9) MYEONGMA JILJU drops back in trip following two goes around 1700M. She ran 2nd in the first of those but weakened in the wet last time and may be suited more by today’s test. Of the two debut-makers, (2) WHITE QUEEN is from and in-form stable and looked capable in trials.

Selections (8) To The Victory (3) Hwanggeum Star (9) Myeongma Jilju (2) White Queen
Next Best 5, 7
Fast Start 2, 5, 8

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

(2) INDY LADY enters in good form, specifically her latest effort when she ran a close 2nd in a good race over class and distance having led for much of the way around. From gate 2 she should be on pace again and under visiting jockey Seo Seung-un, can win. (1) GEOTAP and (12) SEMYEONG STORM are both up in class having registered maiden wins on their respective latest outings. The latter looks significantly better equipped for this level and while he will need to overcome the outside gate, can be a big danger. (3) JEONGSANG MANSE and (4) TAEPUNG EYES are both experienced at this level and (more…)