Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 22)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile filly maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience on top though and (4) GEUMJEOKSAN, who after a positive trial, ran 2nd on debut in a very similar race to this on October 4th. She was well beaten by a good winner, but she should have come on for the run and won’t need to improve much to win here. Among the first timers. (3) UNJU CLEAR looks the best. She came from well off the pace to run 4th in a decent time in her trial and Moon Se-young’s booking will catch the eye of plenty. (9) SMART HAESEONG is the only one in the field to have raced twice, improving to 3rd at start two and she can have a race fitness edge on her rivals here. (6) X-TEN and newcomer (2) JESEONG BLUE are others to look out for.

Selections(4) Geumjeoksan (3) Unju Clear (9) Smart Haeseong (6) X-Ten
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. Experience gets it with (9) CHEONGSAN MUSA, who ran 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 25th, showing on pace throughout. He should have come on for that run, the additional distance should cause no problems, and he can win. (8) REFLECT shapes as the main danger. After running 5th on debut, he was an improved 3rd at start number two over this distance on October 19th, coming from well off the pace and he can challenge strongly late on here. (5) FANTASTIC BRO and (3) BLACK KINGDOM both hinted at ability on their respective debuts and can improve here. Among the first-timers, (2) ROAD TO HEAT looks the pick.

Selections(9) Cheongsan Musa (8) Reflect (5) Fantastic Bro (3) Black Kingdom
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported juvenile maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time and we’ll take a chance on a newcomer with (4) JEONGSANG HERO. The Beau Liam colt went through two trials, improving in the second of them when running 2nd in a good time and showing on pace. He draws nicely and if he can bring that form to the races, he’ll have every chance first up. (3) HIGH MOUNTAIN came from off the pace to run 4th on debut over 1000M on October 25th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He should have come on for the run, the step up in trip can suit, and he can be a big danger. (1) JJARITHAN HAENGBOK is a Maximus Mischief colt who went through two trials, posting a quick time in both and coming from a wide gate to run 2nd in the latest of them. He is another to keep an eye on first up. (2) WHIZ FIGHTER and (12) M J CLASS both showed ability on debut and can improve.

Selections(4) Jeongsang Hero (3) High Mountain (1) Jjarithan Haengbok (2) Whiz Fighter
Next Best12, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 30 Million

Regular maiden here and (3) RAON FINALE is the one to beat. She’s run 3rd in both her starts to date at 1000M and 1200M, racing both handy and from off the pace. Third-up, she can peaking fitness-wise, the additional trip can suit, and she can win. The danger is (10) MIGHTY BEAT. He has a 6th and a pair of 4th place finishes over 1000M and 1200M, doing his best work late on all three occasions. He is another who should appreciate a bit more distance and he should be challenging late. (8) ECLIPSE TANGO has a pair of 3rd places on his record and while he weakened having led over 1700M last time out, this should suit better, and an apprentice takes 4kg off his back. (1) TRIPLE PALMOETTO has finished 4th in each of her latest three and may do so again. (7) POWERFUL IMPACT another who can compete for the minors.

Selections(3) Raon Finale (10) Mighty Beat (8) Eclipse Tango (1) Triple Palmetto
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(8) QUANTUM K got his maiden win over this distance and has been threatening another, most recently recording a 3rd place on October 19th when settling midfield and running on. Today can be the day. (7) SONGDANG HWANGTAEJA remains a maiden after eleven attempts but has placed on no fewer than seven occasions, five of them over this distance. In this company he can sit just behind the speed, and he should be there or thereabouts again.  (3) CHRYSOL MAJOR returns to action for the first time since April. He was going well before the layoff and while he has had an interrupted career, he has run well first-up before and looked well in a trial. (9) WANGCHOEGO and (2) LUCKY FAMOUS other placing chances.

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:15 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Kim Hye-sun hangs up her saddle on Friday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with three of the ten racing for the first time. (6) WORLD FIGHTER MAN took several trials to make it to the races, but he performed well on debut over this distance on November 2nd settling midfield and running on for 3rd in a good time. He should have come on for the run, and he can win here. (2) JOY OF QUEEN was a solid 2nd on debut on October 24th, racing on pace over this distance. It was a slow race, but he showed plenty of promise and from a good draw and with some natural improvement, he could go one better. (10) STRONG WINNER was 2nd in a quick trial and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, he looks the best of the first timers. (8) SUNGAN POWER and newcomer (5) FAPPI BABE others who can be in the mix.

Selections(6) World Fighter Man (2) Joy Of Queen (10) Strong Winner (8) Sungan Power
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden with four first timers. (12) LAMPYOJEONGGEENIE was 4th on debut in September and followed up with 3rd at start number two on October 24th when she led over this distance. She has to contend with the widest gate here but third up she can be peaking. (8) WORLD EAGLE CAT has shown promise across three starts so far with her best being 3rd place at 1000M on September 19th. She followed up with 4th on her first try at this distance on October 24th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process, and she will be  a threat here. (11) WIN GATE did nothing in three starts up to June but she has since been through two trials, winning one and running 2nd in the other and she gets a fresh start today. Kim Hye-sin signs off her riding career with (3) PERFECT FLASH and the filly, who she will be training, can go well first-up. (2) BORYEONG ONE ROAD another who can improve.

Selections(12) Lampyojeonggeenie (8) World Eagle Cat (11) Win Gate (3) Perfect Flash
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 11, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 30 Million

(5) SEOBU GAMBLE has been getting closer across seven starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over 1400M on November 9th when coming from well off the pace. He was 4th on a previous try at a mile, and he can be ready to win here. He will have to overturn the form on (4) SOMANGUIGIL. He ran 3rd to Seobu Gamble’s 4th in that mile race which was on October 19th. He has finished 3rd or 4th in each of his five starts to date and should be on pace and in the mix again. (8) STAY COOL enters off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two, showing on pace both times. She stretches out in trip here and should be in things a long way. (11) OASIS ADELE and (2) NEVERSTOP HEEMANG among plenty of other place chances.

Selections(5) Seobu Gamble (4) Somanguigil (8) Stay Cool (11) Oasis Adele
Next Best2, 12
Fast Start4, 8, 9, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(12) DOCTOR LOUIS ran out of class last time, posting a very good 4th place over this distance. He comes back into class 5 where he has a win and a 3rd place from his two most recent efforts and while that means he gets a big weight on his back, he has every chance. (4) UNJU MAGIC got his maiden win at start four over 1300M in October before taking his chance in Juvenile Listed company a couple of weeks later where he didn’t run badly at all. Back in more amenable company and under a light weight, he can be competitive. (8) BIGBANG CLASS was a big price class and distance winner on October 19th, racing on pace and beating a few of today’s rivals in the process. He comes up 3.5kg in weight but he warrants respect here. (11) BREEDO KELLY and (1) DAEGIL HERO others in the hunt.

Selections(12) Doctor Louis (4) Unju Magic (8) Bigbang Class (11) Breedo Kelly
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(8) FORCE BE WITH YOU came from off the pace to beat several of today’s rivals when 2nd to Doctor Chris at this class and distance on October 24th. He comes in under pretty much the same weight, he draws the same gate, and he can go one better today. (2) AMAZING ONE made his breakthrough at start six over 1300M on November 11th having finished 5th of ten in the Rookie Stakes in August. He comes up in class here and significantly in trip, but he is down in weight, Seo Seung-un stays on, and he can be a danger. (7) SEATTLE DREAM is similarly up in class following a maiden win, in her case at the eighth time of asking but at a mile. Her style should suit the extended distance, and she too comes down 3kg in weight with Munro aboard for the first time. (3) ALICE MARINE and (6) GEUMA REJOICE, 3rd and 5th behind Force Be With You on October 24th, among plenty of other money chances.

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Geudaemaniddamyeon & CC Wong Land Juvenile Honours for Trainer Choi Yong-geon

Geudaemaniddamyeon ground down Wonpyeong Sket to claim victory in the Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy (1200M Listed) at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon and in the process establish himself as the capital track’s top imported juvenile and one of its most exciting prospects for next year.

Geudaemaniddamyeon and CC Wong get the better of Wonpyeong SKet and Ruan Maia (Pic: KRA)

After running 2nd on debut, Geudaemaniddamyeon was a comprehensive winner at start number two over 1200M and that led him to be sent off as the favourite for what is the biggest juvenile race at Seoul open to imported youngsters.

Second favourite Wonpyeong Sket, the only Korean bred in the race and one of only two fillies, bounded out of gate six into an early lead under Ruan Maia and seemed poised to go all the way until Geudaemaniddamyeon and CC Wong swept by late to score in the final few strides. My Empire, a Classic Empire colt, was two-lengths back in 3rd.

For Wonpyeong Sket it marked three times in a row in Listed Juvenile races that she has led, only to be overhauled late on, having suffered the same fate at the hands of Mujehan Geup in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy and Chief Star in the NACF Chairman’s Trophy. Connections decisions to swerve next week’s G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie, where the Musket Man filly would likely have met both of those two again, were probably vindicated.

It was CC Wong’s third Listed success in Korea, following on from Crown Hamseong and Chan Famous earlier in the year. Geudaemaniddamyeon brought up 70 Korean winners in total for the former Singapore based hoop.

Trainer Choi Yong-geon was winning his first Listed or Graded race in his own name, since becoming licensed in 2020 after a long career as an assistant. He was as ever reserved when talking with KRBC after the race. “My heart is ready to burst; I haven’t felt such a thrilling feeling in a long time” he enthused. “I want to thank my very good friend (owner Woo Tae-yul) for trusting us with him and for giving him such a great name.”

Owner Woo is known for giving his horses wistful and melancholic names and Geudaemanuiddamyeon, a name never likely to be beloved by race callers, roughly translates into English as “If only you were here now”.

CC Wong, owner Woo Tae-yul (in scarf) and trainer Choi Yong-geon (Pic: KRA)

“We try to win every race, and every win is meaningful” Choi continued. “But I was wondering when I would win my first Trophy. (Geudaemaniddamyeon) only came in to us during the summer, he is a tall horse, and he has a big build and hasn’t been straightforward. Because he is growing into (his frame) we have had to monitor him closely. The team has worked hard and been rewarded.”

As for the future: “We’ll do our best to make him a star.”

As the trainer noted, Geudaemaniddamyeon [Tacitus – Annies Law (by Harlan’s Holiday)] was a relatively late arrival to Korea. He was purchased out of the Ocala Breeders’ Sales 2025 March 2yo in Training Sale earlier this year for $100,000. He is owned by Woo Tae-yul and trained by Choi Yong-geon.

Busan was scheduled to run its own race for imported juveniles but didn’t attract enough entries for it to go ahead. However, a full field of sixteen is expected on the south coast next Sunday for the Breeders’ Cup Rookie (1400M KOR-G2) which will decide the title of Champion Korean bred Juvenile.

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 16)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00 and at Busan where there are 6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. (2) CHRYSOL STEP was an improved 2nd at start number two over this distance on October 18th, settling just behind the speed and running on. Maia stays on and he can be peaking here. (9) CHOEGO GOLD has similarly made progress with a 5th followed by a 2nd from his two outings to date, most recently showing on pace. He will be on pace again and can be in this a long way. Among the newcomers, (4) GOLDEN MATCH won his trial and that’s enough to put him into contention first up here. (3) BEAT FRESH was 2nd in a quicker heat than that of Golden Match and similarly can go well. Returning to the experience (11) POWERFUL PRADO can improve from her debut.

Selections(2) Chrysol Step (9) Choego Gold (4) Golden Match (3) Beat Fresh
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After running 5th on debut in June, (3) GLOBAL DREAMS was an improved 2nd at start number two in August, racing on pace over 1200M. He has had a further three months off since then but in this company and well-drawn, he has every chance of going all the way. (7) HAKSAN SWORD was 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 18th, settling behind the speed and running on. He should have come on for that run and shapes as the main danger here. (2) AMOS CHEOGANG did nothing on debut almost a year ago. He hasn’t been seen since, but he looked well in a trial at the end of October and can be a different prospect this time around. (11) BLISS STAR had a hard time in Listed juvenile company last time out but should be much more comfortable today. (6) EAN FIRST, back to trial after his latest, another in the hunt.

Selections(3) Global Dreams (7) Haksan Sword (2) Amos Choegang (11) Bliss Star
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

We’ll take a chance on (1) HORIZON STAR here. He has run on pleasingly enough from wide draws and unpromising positions in his first two starts and today he finally gets a good draw and an extra furlong to play with Third-up he can be peaking and he can win. (9) MASTER PLAN got a bit far back when well supported on his latest start, ultimately only making it up to 6th place. We’ll go on his 3rd place two outings back, however, which can put him right in the mix here. (4) GLORY JOY has picked up in his latest two with a 4th and a 5th and she can be aiming to better that in this company. (8) ROAD TO SPEAR and (6) MACHEON WORLD others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Horizon Star (9) Master Plan (4) Glory Joy (8) Road To Spear
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (3) GOLDEN EMPIRE was a close 2nd on debut over 1000M in September before struggling with a hot pace when favourite over the same trip on October 17th and finishing 6th. The step up in trip should suit, she draws well, and she is the one to beat. (2) YURIM ACE was an improved 2nd in a similar filly maiden on October 24th, shoeing close to the front throughout in a slowly run race. She draws well to be on the lead again, Seo Seung-un stays on, and she is the danger. (9) HIGH BEAUTY was 4th on debut behind Golden Empire back in September. She hasn’t raced since but should have benefited for that run and can match or better that here. (4) WE STRONG and newcomer (7) ZITA are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(3) Golden Empire (2) Yurim Ace (9) High Beauty (4) We Strong
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start2, 3,7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only here. (1) BISANG BELL has got a bit far back in three tries at this class since getting her maiden win back in June but she has finished between 2nd and 4th on each occasion. She comes up to 1400M for the first time and from a good draw, she can be a little closer to the action a little earlier today, and she can win. (6) MYEONG DREAM was a comfortable winner at start number two over 1200M on October 4th, settling midfield and running on. She is up in class and in trip but can be a danger. So too can (9) MUNHAK DAESE. She made her breakthrough at start three over 1200M in similarly emphatic fashion and with CC climbing on for the first time, she can measure up. (4) KARA K and (10) HYEWONYONGMA are other chances.

Selections(1) Bisang Bell (6) Myeong Dream (9) Munhak Daese (4) Kara K
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) SINCHEON FREEDOM is yet to win in eleven attempts but has some near misses including a 3rd place at this distance two starts back when racing on pace. Her best finishes have come when she has been on pace and with little early speed to worry about here, she can lead and potentially go all the way. (5) SEINE GANG has four top five finishes from five starts. He comes up to 1400M for the first time and with Seo Seung-un staying on, it can suit. He needs to overturn the form on (1) DIA X who beat Seine Gang as the pair finished 2nd and 4th respectively over 1300M on October 4th. Dia X mixes his form but draws well here and can be a danger. (9) VORTEX and (3) BAEKPAL BOEUN will be the two next best in the market.

Selections(7) Sincheon Freedom (5) Seine Gang (1) Dia X (9) Vortex
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Ater back-to-back runner-up finishes at this class and distance, (8) YEONGGWANGUI SKY will be a short price favourite here. He will be on pace, an apprentice jockey (who rode a double last Saturday) keeps his weight nice and light, and he should have too much for this field. (2) SLING STAR races for the first time since June when he was 3rd at this class over 1300M. He has been through two trials with the latest just a week ago when in contrast to his racing he style, he settled back before running on to record a pair of decent times. He probably won’t hang around from gate two and he should be in this a long way. (5) GOOD FRIEND was only ordinary last time out but she has placed twice at this trip and can be an each-way chance here. (3) SSAK DANAEUN and (7) BREEDO KING STAR others who could compete for the minors.

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the nine racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (6) MYUNG BRACING, who ran fairly for a midfield finish on debut over 1000M on October 18th. He should have come on for that run and the step up in trip can suit but the crucial difference can be the back from suspension Ruan Maia climbing aboard. Of the first timers, (7) JISAN LABEL is the clear top pick. He was handy in his trial, finishing in 2nd place in a decent time and if he brings that form to the races, he can go close. (4) LEGEND MATCH won his trial, albeit in a slow time, leading all the way. Nicely drawn he can lead again here and be in it a long way. (2) WISHMASTER hinted at ability in his heat while (8) NUNI OLKKAYO did nothing on debut but previously trialed well and can improve.

Selections(6) Myung Bracing (7) Jisan Label (4) Legend Match (2) Wishmaster
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (11) NINE SPEAR didn’t do much on debut back in May but after four months out was an improved 2nd at start number two on September 20th racing on pace over this distance. She’s had a further eight weeks off since but can strip fitter and go one better here. (7) MIRACLE SOCKS similarly didn’t show a lot in two starts around the turn of the year but returned from seven months out to run 2nd at this distance on October 26th. She too should have come on for that run and will be vying for the lead from the start.  There are three debut makers and among them both (6) RAON THE PLUMA and (1) COMPLETE DIVA performed well in trials and can be given a chance first up. (4) PASA QUEEN another with experience who can be in the placing frame.

Selections(11) Nine Spear (7) Miracle Socks (6) Raon The Pluma (1) Complete Diva
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(7) GLOBAL TIME has won his latest two, first over 1200M at class 5 level and then most recently, his first try at this class and distance on October 18th when coming from off the pace and scoring. He is up 2.5kg in the weights but is very much the one to beat again. (8) MORNING WONDER was a solid 3rd on her first try at this class over 1400M on October 19th. She steps up to the mile for the first time, but her racing style suggests that it can suit and under a light weight, she can be a danger. (1) MYUNGJUNBULLPAI doesn’t exactly win out of turn, but she comes in off a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two and she should be there or thereabouts again. (4) THE SUN FIGHTER and (5) ARCH MEMORY others who can compete for the minors.

Selections(7) Global Time (8) Morning Wonder (1) Myungjinbullpai (4) The Sun Fighter
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(1) BLUE NELLO was a winner at this class and distance two starts back before running 4th in a very tough race on October 25th. He carries the same weight, draws the same gate against slightly more amenable opposition, he can return to winning ways. (6) GLOBAL POWER was 5th behind Blue Nello two outings back and then 2nd, again at this class and distance on October 19th when handy throughout. He is rarely far away and can be a danger here. (5) FLYING CRUISER races for the first time since the end of August when he was 2nd over this distance, taking his record for the 1800M to a win and two placings. He is up in class here but is down 4.5kg in weight and CC stays on. (4) COLGIN and (2) GOLD MUNGCHI are other place chances.

Selections(1) Blue Nello (6) Global Power (5) Flying Cruiser (4) Colgin
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) RAON THE BELMONT has six top five finishes from nine starts and comes in having run 4th on both her latest two over 1400M. She has finished off her races well and the step up to two turns for the first time can suit. (6) CUPID COMMAND enters off a 2nd place when stepped up to this distance for the first time on October 26th, racing handy throughout. A similar effort will see him match or better that in this company. (10) SAHARA ROSE has picked up in her latest couple of outings and is another who may appreciate the opportunity to go a bit further for the first time. (9) HWARANGSAN JEONGGI and (3) SMART WARRIOR are others in the minor money hunt.

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 9-race card at Busan from 11:15 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the nine racing for the first time. (7) BEOLMAUI LAND was a close 5th on debut in a quick race over 1000M on October 4th, showing on pace. He should have come on for the run, and the experience is enough to give him the edge here. (2) PISTOL CUT showed on pace in her debut and while she did weaken, she too should have derived benefit from the experience and can be on pace here. Among the debut makers, (3) SEOGWI CREST ran 3rd in her latest trial coming from off the pace and 1200M can suit first up. (9) AEGIS CROWN and (1) SMART YULIM are other possibles in what is a very modest looking affair.

Selections(7) Beolmaui Land (2) Pistol Cut (3) Seogwi Crest (9) Aegis Crown
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 30 Million

(5) SWORN QUEEN returned from five months out to run a solid 2nd over 1300M on October 17th. She should have come on for the run and already holding a 3rd place at this distance, she has every chance of coming out on top here. (2) OASIS RUBY was an improved 3rd at start number two over this distance on September 28th, starting slowly but quickly ridden up to be handy. She comes into a better gate and third-up she can be peaking. (1) DELEKOOMDA is another with a 3rd place to his name over this distance and from the inside gate he can settle behind the speed and challenge late on. (6) HANEUL GOLD and (3) FLARE UP are others with at least a placing chance.

Selections(5) Sworn Queen (2) Oasis Ruby (1) Delekoomda (6) Haneul Gold
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) GEUMSEONG had a slightly poor day at the office when well fancied over 1200M on October 17th, starting awkwardly and then struggling to get back in contention with the pace strong. He still managed to finish 5th though and based on his previous 3rd and 2nd, he can be given another chance here. (11) SKYLAR JIYOU beat Geumseong when 4th in that October 17th race, settling midfield and running on. That was just his second start, and he can continue to make progress here. (4) COWBOY LOOK has finished 4th in both outings to date, both at 1000M and can be ready to step up in trip. (3) SHINING ONE and (1) DOCTOR ACE are others to consider.

Selections(10) Geumseong (11) Skylar Jiyou (4) Cowboy Look (3) Shining One
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(3) VANGIE enters off back-to-back 2nd places in two goes at this class at 1200M and 1400M, beating a few of today’s rivals in the process. He has nine top two finishes from ten starts and while six of those have been as runner-up, in this company he draws well to be on the speed and he can win. (2) DOCTOR OSCAR is rarely far away and has plenty of experience at this level. She can race handy here and be a threat late on. (11) MAGARITA returns to action for the first time since May. She looked well in a trial at the start of the month and first-up for Thomas Gillespie, she may offer some each-way interest. (8) BLACK SPRING and (7) EUNBIT DAERO are both better than their respective latest efforts and are worth another chance.

Selections(3) Vangie (2) Doctor Oscar (11) Magarita (8) Black Spring
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 11-races from 10:35 to 18:00, and at Busan where there are 6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Ziggurat returns to action having won September’s Listed Ilgan Sports (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but three racing for the first time. (6) WILD SMARTY went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them when runner-up in a good time having led from the widest gate for most of the way alongside some experienced horses (it won’t be in all racecards, so it was a time of 62.6 on September 11th). Drawn well he can lead here and win. (9) BEST THE ON is the best of the experience, having come from off the pace to run 4th on debut over 1000M on October 25th, albeit well back behind a good winner. He should have come on for that, the step up in trip can suit, and he can get closer with Moon on. Returning to the first timers, (8) GRACE DAY was a very close 2nd in his second trial, leading for much of the way and he can be in the finish first-up as well. (11) SEMYEONG PEAK and (10) CHEONJI TANK are the others who hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(6) Wild Smarty (9) Best The On (8) Grace Day (11) Semyeong Peak
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

One of three debut-makers, (2) AMOS CHEONHA went through two trials, blitzing the second of them on October 16th, leading gate to wire and crossing the line plenty to the good in a quick time. Given his draw, if he brings that form to the races, he will be hard to beat. (9) POWERFUL KNIGHT was an on pace 3rd on debut over this distance on October 18th. He draws a touch wider than ideal but if Diego can find a forward position again, he can be in this a long way. (5) BLACK PEPE was a close 4th at start two over this distance on September 20th. Third up he has an experience edge over these and can be in the finish. (3) BANK LINE and debut maker (8) RAON THE CLARA are others who can be in the mix.

Selections(2) Amos Cheonha (9) Powerful Knight (5) Black Pepe (3) Bank Line
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRA 30 Million

(4) ISIMNYEON SEWOL ran a much-improved 2nd at start number two on October 4th when coming from off the pace from a wide draw over 1300M. He comes into a better gate today, the slight step up in trip can suit, and he can go one better. (2) GRAY PHANTOM enters off three consecutive 5th places and a 4kg apprentice claim may be what she needs. She can get a bit far back in her races but if she can be in striking distance in the straight, she can be close. Also getting a 4kg claim is (1) ACE MATCH. He has tended to do his best work in trials rather than in races but should be looking to improve in this company. The returning (6) KIA ORA looked good in a trial last week and along with (5) ECLIPSE BAY, can be in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Isimnyeon Sewol (2) Gray Phantom (1) Ace Match (6) Kia Ora
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 1 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million

Class 1 opens proceedings as it is the smallest field on the card. (9) CONTROLLER is a winner of six races including five in a row up until this March when he scored at class 2 level over this distance from the front. He has been out since through injury and appears to have been gelded in the interim as well. He looked very well winning an October trial, and this looks the ideal first assignment back. (7) GANGSEO GIANT comes off a 3rd place two weeks ago at big odds in the G3 Kookje Shimun over 1400M, a race she won a year ago . She was beaten by plenty of these two starts back at this distance but if that Group race effort means she is back in form, then she is a danger. (6) BAEKDUUI KKUM is a stablemate of Controller and races for the first time since August 1st when she won over this distance at class 2 level. She looked very well when leading all the way in a trial two weeks ago and as a six-time winner at 1200M, can be firmly in this. (3) CHOEGOUI KKUM and (5) FANTASTIC KINGDOM are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Controller (7) Gangseo Giant (6) Baekduui Kkum (3) Choegoui Kkum
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Tricky one. (7) BLACK RUSSIAN enters off his best start to date, when at the thirteenth time of asking, he ran 2nd over this distance on October 18th racing handy throughout. The same apprentice takes the same 4kg off his back and he has as good a chance as any of going one better. (1) BODY CHECK raced twice much earlier this year, finishing 3rd in the second of them in March. He hasn’t raced since and hasn’t trialed since July, but he couldn’t hope for a softer race to return in. (3) JIJON BULPAE needs a line drawn through his latest when slow away and never a factor as favourite. Instead, we can go on his 3rd place over 1200M tow starts back and give him another chance. (6) NAEGEROWAJWO and (5) SUN GALLANT others who may place.

Selections(7) Black Russian (1) Body Check (3) Jijon Bulpae (6) Naegerowajwo
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with four of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on one of the newcomers in (3) FLASH TO ME. She showed on pace in her trial, crossing the line a very close 2nd in a fair time. She draws well Seo Seung-un is on, and there seems plenty to like. Four of the ones with experience debuted together in the same race at 1000M on October 17th. From a wide draw (2) BIG STAR came from well off the pace to finish the best of them in 3rd and she can be a danger here. (5) BLUE HUNTER was 4th in that race, just half a length in arrears and having previously been better than Big Star in trials, will be favoured by plenty to overturn that form. (10) SKY WHITE also comes out of that race and can improve for the run. (8) DREAM BLUE is another debut-maker who hinted at ability in her trial.

Selections(3) Flash To Me (2) Big Star (5) Blue Hunter (10) Sky White
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(6) BEST PITCH is two for two having won on debut over 1000M on August 30th and then beating three of today’s rivals on his first try at this class over 1200M on September 28th, coming from well off the pace. He gets another crack at class 5 and while he has to contend with an additional 3.5kg, he can complete his hat-trick here. (10) TIGER K is yet to win in nine starts but he has four runner-up finishes with his latest at this class and distance on October 4th when on pace. His draw is a touch wider than ideal but if he can find a way to the front early, he can be a danger. (7) JUNMA FORCE will round out most opt three selections. Having finished 4th to Tiger K’s 2nd two starts back, she ran a close 2nd of her own at this class and distance on October 25th. She is up 2kg in weight but can be in the finish again. (3) DURAY SHOW and (9) SAENAE CLASSIC others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(6) Best Pitch (10) Tiger K (7) Junma Force (3) Duray Show
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with an 11-race program from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with four of the eleven racing for the first time. (1) ARION QUEEN CAR ran 2nd on debut over 1000M on September 20th, leading until passed by a good winner who has gone on to place in Listed Juvenile company. She should have come on for the run, she draws well to be on pace again, and she can go one better. (8) RAPTURE was similarly impressive on debut, running 2nd over 1000M in a quick time on a wet track. She too should have benefited from the experience, and she can be a danger. (11) HOLLY TIARA went through two trials, winning the second of them in a quick time. Moon Se-young is on and she’ll have plenty of backers first-up. (5) YUKWAEHAN SEUNGJA was a solid 4th on debut and can improve. (6) PARAIBA hinted at ability in her heat.

Selections(1) Arion Queen Car (8) Rapture (11) Holly Tiara (5) Yukwaehan Seungja
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

(6) FIVE STAR has raced twice, improving to 3rd at start number two over 1200M on September 7th, coming from well off the pace. The slight step up in trip can suit and today can be her day. (1) COMEBACK HOLYMOELY was a solid 4th on debut, settling midfield and running on pleasingly. He should have come on for the run and shapes as a danger. So too does (3) GEOMEUN SUP had the widest draw on September 21st over 1200M, but he showed on pace before weakening into 5th. He still managed to beat a couple of today’s rivals and with a much better draw, he can get closer this time. (7) SAEROUN BISUL and (9) MIGHTY CRIS are others who can be considered.

Selections(6) Five Star (1) Comeback Holymoely (3) Geomeun Sup (7) Saeroun Bisul
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Small but very competitive field of juvenile maidens with three of the five racing for the first time. (4) PASA SPURT was a solid 4th of ten on debut over 1000M on September 27th, settling midfield and running on. The step up in trip can suit and he can win here. (1) VICTORY SOCKS went through two trials, improving to 3rd place from a wide draw in the second of them. From the inside gate he can put in a bold showing first up. (2) WHIZ WIN was a touch disappointing when 6th of ten on debut but he was previously a trial winner, and he can be given another chance here. (7) MY MUNNINGS and (5) MIGHTY CHOICE others who should be firmly in the hunt.

Selections(4) Pasa Spurt (1) Victory Socks (2) Whiz Win (7) My Munnings
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) RAON BLAIDE was 3rd on debut over 1200M on September 20th, settling midfield then dropping right back before running on. He should have come on for that run, the slight step up in trip can suit, and he can win. (1) LIGHT WING has raced three times without distinction but went back to trial on October 23rd and win his hear, being dropped in behind the leaders and running on. Moon stays on and improvement will be expected. (7) THUNDER FIGHTER has raced on pace across his three starts so far with his best finish being a 2nd place at 1200M. He should be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (11) GHOST and (3) CHOWOLMA others in the mix.

Selections(8) Raon Blaide (1) Light Wing (7) Thunder Fighter (11) Ghost
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) ECLIPSE MARVEL was 3rd on debut in a filly only maiden over 1400M on October 3rd when she led early. She should have come on for that run and while she has the challenge of a wider gate, she won’t need to improve much to win this modest contest. (8) GOLDEN SAVE is the second pick. He has a 4th and a 5th from two outings so far, both over 1200M and both times racing handy. Similar efforts will see him closer today. (9) AWESOME STEP didn’t do much last time out but her 2nd place at this distance two starts back is enough o put her in the mix in this company. (1) K SIMON and (4) YONGBI SHINHWA are perhaps the best of a somewhat limited rest.

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

The weekend’s racing kicks off at Busan on Friday with a 9-race card from 11:15 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seo Seung-un is on plenty of chances on Friday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with seven of the nine racing for the first time. (7) CHEONGCHUNEUNJAYU has raced twice, finishing 3rd on debut and then 2nd at start two in a quick time over 1000M when settling just behind the speed and running on. He should have the edge on these both experience and fitness-wise, and he is the one to beat. (1) FANTASTIC BOSS looks the best of the debut-makers. He came from midfield to run 3rd in his heat in a decent time and 1200M should suit first-up. (9) ANY WIN also has an experience advantage. He improved to 5th at start two over 1000M and can continue to make progress here. (3) MYSTIK JIN and (2) CHOEGANG HAPPY also hinted at ability in their respective trials.

Selections(7) Cheonchuneunjayu (1) Fantastic Boss (9) Any Win (3) Mystik Jin
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) DREAM RACER was 5th on debut over 1000M and followed up with 3rd at 1200M on September 7th when handy and running on. Seo Seung-un climbs on for the first time and third-up he can be peaking. Stablemate of Dream Racer (10) JEONGMUN FELIX returns to action for the first time since registering back-to-back 3rd place finishes in March and May, both at this distance. He looked well when he was close to the pace in an October trial, and he can pick up from where he left off here. (1) SEOGWI OSEONGTAP enters off an improved 4th over 1400M last time out when coming form off the pace. She draws well and, in this company, can be in placing contention. (2) WORLD TRIPLE CAT and (9) QUEEN THE GOLD others who may play a role.

Selections(6) Dream Racer (10) Jeongmun Felix (1) Seogwi Oseongtap (2) World Triple Cat
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) SOMANGUIGIL has raced four times and recorded back-to-back 4th places followed by back-to-back 3rd places, beating plenty of today’s rivals along the way. One of those 3rd places was at a mile and in this company, he can be on pace early and he can be winning. (5) CHAMP KING has a 3rd place at this distance two starts back when settling back and running on. He has been consistent over his six appearances to date, and he can be there or thereabouts again. (1) HOUND POKER was 4th behind Champ King last time out on September 12th. He can get a bit far back in his races but draws nicely on int inside and can be running on strong again. (12) FINAL ATTACK and (6) HIGH LEVEL are others in the frame.

Selections(9) Somanguigil (5) Champ King (1) Hound Poker (12) Final Attack
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

After finishing 4th on debut in July, (12) TWIN RAINBOW got her maiden on August 22nd over 1000M, leading throughout. She was given an easy time in a trial last Saturday and while she is up in class and distance, as well as having the challenge of the widest gate, she can make it two in a row. (2) ROAD TO WIN has a3rd and two 4th places from her lates three, all at this class and distance. She looked well when a close 2nd in a quick trial on October 25th, and well-drawn, she can be a threat. (8) FLASH DAY returns to action for the first time since April and while his most recent trial was in August, he can be competitive in this company. (5) UNLIMITED RUN and (11) TRIPLE J are perhaps the best of an out of form rest.

Selections(12) Twin Rainbow (2) Road To Win (8) Flash Day (5) Unlimited Run
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (6) POWERFUL RUN was a winner on debut in June and has since recorded a 6th and a 4th in two tries at this class, the latter over this distance on October 17th when she was handy throughout. Expect her to be similarly ridden today and she can win. She will need to overturn the form on (2) SEOGWI LADY, who was 3rd in that October 17th race, settling behind the speed and running on. That was her first start since June so she can strip fitter for the run and be in the mix again. (11) MAGIC SWEETIE has just the one win from twenty-six starts but has finished between 3rd and 5th on no fewer than eleven occasions and she can be there or thereabouts again. (8) NEW LEADER and (7) SEONGSIL JEIL, both of whom raced alongside Magic Sweetie on October 4th, are others to consider.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 2)

No Group or Listed races this Sunday but still plenty to get stuck into with an 11-race card at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and a 6-race program at Busan from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens though all but three have raced before. (10) CHEONGSAN DOLPUNG is the pick and probable favourite having run 2nd on debut over 1000M on September 27th, settling midfield from a wide draw and running on to narrowly miss out. The step up in trip can be in his favour and he can go one better. (2) PANGPANG DAERO was a front-running 2nd at 1000M on his debut back on August 16th. He draws well to be on pace again and Maia staying on is a plus. (1) DAEHAN SIDAE ran 4th on debut at 1000M on October 3rd, coming from a wide gate and beating a couple of today’s rivals. He draws much better today and can be in the mix. (6) YONGBIGYO and (12) EUNPA BOOSTER others who hinted at ability on their respective debuts.

Selections(10) Cheongsan Dolpung (2) Pangpang Daero (1) Daehan Sidae (6) Yongbigyo
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. Since running last on debut (2) TRIPLE JENNY has gone close in each of five subsequent outings, most recently finishing 2nd over 1400M on October 3rd when on pace throughout. Drawn well here she can lead and today should be her day. (5) HAEMAJI may be figuring things out with a 2nd place on her latest at this distance on August 31st. On that form she is the danger. (6) OUTSTANDING GIRL hasn’t shown much in the way of speed across three outings to date, but she does come in off a 4th place at 1200M on October 4th and in this company, she can aim to match or better. (3) DAEHAN COCO’S and (8) JINJUUI SIMJANG are others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(2) Triple Jenny (5) Haemaji (6) Outstanding Girl (3) Daehan Coco’s
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) WILD MAGIC was 3rd on debut in a filly only maiden over 1200M on October 4th when settling midfield and running on strongly, although well behind the winner. She takes a big step up in trip here but she should have come on for the run and may even be available at an each-way price. (3) ECLIPSE TANGO has been a beaten favourite a couple of times now and will need a line drawn through his latest at 1400M on September 28th when slow away. He is usually on pace and is worth another chance in this field. (5) BLUE DRAGON stepped up to this distance on September 27th and registered his best finish to date with a 3rd place and he should be there or thereabouts again. (1) WHITE ROMANCE and (4) COMMANDING LEAD are others in the frame.

Selections(8) Wild Magic (3) Eclipse Tango (5) Blue Dragon (1) White Romance
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the eight making their racecourse debuts. We’ll side with one of those newcomers, (3) POWER TREE. He won his trial, showing on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a good time. He draws nicely to be up top early again and can go all the way. If you prefer experience, (2) ISIMNYEON JIGI is the one. After a good trial, he ran well for 3rd on debut having been on the speed throughout. He should have come on for that run and will be challenging for the lead right from the start. Expect him to be the market’s choice. The rest of the experience is unconvincing, so we return to the first timers. (7) WORLD FIGHTER MAN was a quick 2nd in his most recent trial and if he brings that form to the races, he can be a factor. (8) YOUNGYOUNG BRAVO and (6) HUIMANG SPEED also look to have some ability.

Selections(3) Power Tree (2) Isimnyeon Jigi (7) World Fighter Man (8) Youngyoung Bravo
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) SAMJEONG LADY has mixed her form a bit but when she has had trouble it has been at 1300M and when drawn wide. She draws great today and has two wins and a 3rd in four outings at 1200M. She can add to that win count here. (11) SEONGSIL DAERO has a 3rd and two 4th places from her latest three, beating a few of today’s rivals along the way. An apprentice jockey keeps her under a light weight and while she has the challenge of the widest gate, she can be a danger. (10) DONGBANG FORCE returned from nine months out to run 3rd over 1300M on October 19th. She should strip fitter for that run and while she is up in class, she is down in weight and can be competitive. (3) HERO CHOICE and (9) MUNHAK BELL others in the frame.

Selections(2) Samjeong Lady (11) Seongsil Daero (10) Dongbang Force (3) Hero Choice
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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