Global Hit suffered his first defeat on home sand since last year’s Korea Cup when handily defeated by Success Baekpa in the KRA Cup Classic (2000M KOR-G2) at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.
Success Baekpa and Jin Kyum triumph in the KRA Cup Classic (Pic: KRA)
Just five weeks out from this year’s international races, Global Hit was sent off as the odds-on favourite to successfully defend the Cup Classic, which he won a year ago on his route to 3rd place, the best of the locals, in the Korea Cup.
In a race with no obvious early speed, jockey Kim Hye-sun opted to take Global Hit to the front from the widest gate. Challenged in the back straight by Money Crown, they quickly regained the lead but once the field hit the straight and Jin Kyum on Success Baekpa, who had been stalking the favourite the whole time, made his move, Global Hit had no response.
The margin was four-lengths on the line with Speed Young a further four back in 3rd.
“In training this week I had been thinking, why not race (on pace)?” winning jockey Jin Kyum, who was winning his third Group race of the year – and of his career – following victories on Oasis Blue in the KRA Cup Mile and Korean Derby, told in-house broadcaster KRBC. “Global Hit drew wide and then went forward so I thought, if I just stick with him, I won’t go too wrong. I wasn’t really expecting Success Baekpa to finish as well as he did though.”
“If you look at how Success Baekpa ran today, even if Global Hit had been at his very best, I am not sure the result would have been different.”
“We had a really bad run in the Owners’ Cup last time” winning trainer Min Jang-gi told KRBC. “I was hoping for this to be somewhat of a recovery race, so obviously it is very good to win. I am hoping for even more from him in future.”
A four-year-old, Success Baekpa [Purge – Baekpa (by Revere) is a winner of seven of his seventeen starts, four of them now having come at Group level, having won the KRA Cup Mile and Minister’s Cup in the Triple Crown last year and the Herald Business earlier this.
Success Baekpa is off and gone from Global Hit and Speed Young (Pic: KRA)
Global Hit’s rider would would probably like this one back. “I am upset” Kim Hye-sun told the camera crew that was following her around. “I knew there was going to be no pace in the race, and we know he can lead like he did in Dubai. But it went wrong (in the back straight) when he was challenged by horses both sides of him. It took a long time to settle him again after that.”
As for the Korea Cup, Kim said that the performance changed little. “As far as I am concerned, he is fine for the Korea Cup, that’s always been the target. The Japanese (horses) will be there, and we know how fast they are so if anything, it may suit him more than this did.”
It’s the main domestic prep race for September’s international Korea Cup on Sunday as Global Hit defends his KRA Cup Classic crown against 10 rivals. Seoul is the only track racing on Sunday with 14 races from 10:35 to 18:00. We’ll have a full preview of the big race shortly, for now here is the race-by-race:
Global Hit won this race last year (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (2) DAEHAN POWER beat a couple of these rivals on debut over 1000M on June 21st, settling just behind the speed and running on for 3rd. That day’s second place getter has gone on to win and from a good draw, Daehan Powers can do the same. (4) REVERENCE also ran 3rd on debut, in his case on July 5th, also beating a pair of today’s rivals. Moon Se-young stays on and that’s enough to mean he will probably begin as favourite. Among the newcomers, (3) BLACK PEPE was a trial winner in a good time and if he brings that form to the races, he will be close (10) STORM TROOPER and (11) MASTER PLAN can improve from their respective debuts.
Selections
(2) Daehan Power (4) Reverence (3) Black Pepe (10) Storm Trooper
Next Best
11, 9
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 10
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (4) APATEU ran a solid 3rd on debut over 1000M on July 12th, running through the line well. She should have come on for that run, the step up in trip can suit, and she should have too much for this set of opponents. (2) GHOST GALE led for much of the way around 1300M on July 19th, ultimately registering a best to date of 4th. That was her first start since last November and she can strip fitter here and be on pace again. (1) TRIPLE JENNY has made progress across her three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place in a similar race to this over 1400M on June 29th. She can sit behind the speed and run into some money here. (6) GIDAEHARA and (5) HYEWONYONGMA are others to consider on a place line.
Selections
(4) Apateu (2) Ghost Gale (1) Triple Jenny (6) Gidaehara
Next Best
5, 11
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) HERO CHICE is yet to finish in the top two but has five top five finishes from eight starts, including his latest on July 13th when he overcame gate eleven to race handy and beat three of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place at this distance. He draws much better for an easier run to the lead and he is the one to beat. (8) GLOBAL GISANG was a solid 3rd on debut over 1200M at the end of May, starting slowly and running on. She should have come on for that run, CC climbs on, and she can be a danger. (1) GRAND PARK enters off an improved 2nd at this distance on June 28th and from the inside gate can be in the mix again. (11) CHEONGHAE STAR and (3) RAON THE BELMONT others who have shown ability and can compete.
Selections
(2) Hero Choice (8) Global Gisang (1) Grand Park (11) Cheonghae Star
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
2, 6, 10, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) QUANTUM K has a win and two 2nd places across his five starts so far, most recently when runner-up over 1400M at this class on June 28th. He got shuffled back a bit further than usual that day before running on but in this company should get a straightforward run to the front and can win. (1) CHOEGANG SPEED is the danger. He can get a bit far back in his races but has a nice turn of foot and has run 2nd and 4th in his two starts at this level since his maiden win, most recently on July 5th when he led in the closing stages over 1400M. Moon Se-young is on for the first time. He will need to overturn the form on (8) MINT PLAY, who beat him when 3rd in that July 5th race. The veteran enters in consistent form and should be there or thereabouts again. (10) GLOBAL HAMSEONG and (4) SEOBU SKY others in the hunt.
Selections
(2) Quantum K (1) Choegang Speed (8) Mint Play (10) Global Hamseong
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 8
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Small but competitive field. (7) MENI WIN enters off a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, both at this distance and both times racing on pace. He can lead here, and he can win. (6) DAEWONYONGMA remains a maiden after sixteen attempts, but he has gone close plenty of times with seven top five finishes. He comes in following a 4th and a 3rd from his first two tries at this class and continuing under a light weight, today could be his day. (4) SAENAE CLASSIC got a win and a 3rd in three starts last year. He returns from almost eight months off here and having looked well in a July trial, he can be competitive first up. (5) MENI SHARK and (8) CANVASEN GO the other main chances.
Selections
(7) Meni Win (6) Daewonyongma (4) Saenae Classic (5) Meni Shark
Next Best
8, 3
Fast Start
4, 6, 7, 8
Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
With Jeju off this weekend we have a rare Saturday where both Seoul and Busan will be in operation. Seoul has 9 races from 10:35 to 18:00, which will be interspersed with 5 races from Busan between 11:35 to 16:15. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Eleven previously unraced juveniles. (8) AGAIN GOOD MAN was quickest in trials, finishing in 3rd place in his heat on July 10th showing on pace throughout. Expect similar tactics here and he will probably start as favourite. (11) GOOD MORNING COME came from off the pace to run a close 3rd in his heat. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and he can go well. (2) UNICA was 4th behind Good Morning Come, settling midfield and running on. His stable is in good form and he can keep that going here. Plenty of others hinted at ability in the morning with (7) LIGHT WING and (6) YEONGWONHAN STAR, who both finished 3rd in their respective trials, will be the other main ones in the market.
Selections
(8) Again Good Man (11) Good Morning Come (2) Unica (7) Light Wing
Next Best
6, 5
Fast Start
1, 4, 7, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) MANI NODAGI returned from almost six months out to run a much-improved 2nd over this distance on July 6th. He should strip fitter for that run and from a good gate, he can lead all the way here. (2) GAYA STAR similarly enters off a best to date runner-up finish over this distance on July 13th He is third-up this preparation so may be peaking fitness wise and can be a danger late. The rest of the form is patchy, so we’ll give a chance to debut-maker (6) POWERFUL IMPACT. His trial wasn’t quick, but he did make up so ground so the 1200M, as well as this limited set if opponents, may suit first up. (5) MUNHAK DANCE and (4) SPICE BAND others who can improve.
Selections
(3) Mani Nodagi (2) Gaya Star (6) Powerful Impact (5) Munhak Dance
Next Best
4, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 9
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(9) DOCTOR CENTUM has a 2nd and a 3rd from his two starts so far, both over 1000M. He finished off well both times so the step up in trip can suit and third-up he can be hard to beat. (6) GUREUM BIT didn’t do much on debut in April but was significantly improved when 3rd at start number two over this distance on June 29th when she raced on pace. She can lead again here and be in things a long way. (3) SEINE GANG was only ordinary at start number two over 1300M in June but if we go on her debut 4th back in May at this distance, she can be in the mix in this company. (4) DAEBAK NANTA and (7) WIND SWORD are others who can improve.
Selections
(9) Doctor Centum (6) Gureum Bit (3) Seine Gang (4) Daebak Nanta
Next Best
7, 1
Fast Start
6, 7, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (3) SONEULNAEMILEO got her maiden win over this distance in March and has since run 3rd and 2nd in two tries at this class. She draws beautifully to get the lead here and she can make all the running. (2) TEUKGEUP PARTY is yet to finish outside of the top five and got her maiden win at 1300M in May. She too showed she can measure up at this level with a very narrow reverse when 2nd at 1300M on July 20th and, making a quick return here, she can be in the finish again. (11) LUCKY A ONE won at start two in May over this distance. She hasn’t raced since but she has worked every day since July 18th and should have more to offer. (9) STUNNING PEARL, and the veteran (1) GROW, are other place chances.
Selections
(3) Soneulnaemileo (2) Teukgeup Party (11) Lucky A One (9) Stunning Pearl
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
3, 7, 8, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) WIND ROSE enters off a 2nd place last time out, albeit ten-lengths behind Stuka, over 1400M on June 27th when on pace. From a great draw, she can lead again and in the absence of any other standouts, she should go all the way. (3) BEOLMA WINNER ran twice last autumn, finishing 4th on both occasions. He returns for the first time since last October and having looked well in a July trial, can be competitive first up. (4) LIKE DRAGON was 5th behind Wind Rose in that June 27th race but two starts back ran 2nd at 1200M and cab be in the mix again. The form drops off precipitously after those three with (1) ULFBERHT and (9) SPEED BOY perhaps the best of a limited rest.
Selections
(2) Wind Rose (3) Beolma Winner (4) Like Dragon (1) Ulfbehrt
Next Best
9, 11
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Competitive race. (3) HIGH FOLLY comes back to the distance at which he has done his best work so far with a win and two 3rd places among five attempts. He likes to race on pace so is very nicely drawn and he has every chance here. (7) KYLIE got her maiden breakthrough at the eighteenth time of asking on July 13th when leading for most of the way at this class and distance. She is up 3kg in weight, but that win had been coming, and she could be so lucky again. (2) MG FIRST is yet to finish in the first two in nine attempts but has four 3rd place finishes including on his first try at this class. He comes in fresh after eight weeks off and is another who should be competing for the lead from the start. (5) PINE PINK and (9) EUNPA MUSIC other contenders for at least the minors.
Selections
(3) High Folly (7) Kylie (2) MG First (5) Pine Pink
Next Best
9, 1
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 8
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
With the Jeju ponies taking their summer weekend off, Busan hosts a bumper 14-race Friday program from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seo Seung-un looks the one to follow at Busan on Friday
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens with five of the eight racing for the first time. (1) BEOLMAUI GANGJA laid in repeatedly on debut over this distance on June 13th but still managed to run 3rd and beat the other two here who have experience. With a more mature effort today, he will be very much the one to beat. (3) HOLY NIKE and (6) HEY BROTHER were 5th and 6th in that race, the former coming from off the pace while the latter was handy. Both should have come on for the run and their experience can tell here. Among the newcomers, (2) SO POWERFULL won’t be winning any spelling bees but she, along with (4) WINNER CUP looked the best in trials.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (4) MOTHER WONDERFUL returned to racing on June 22nd for the first time since last September, and ran a solid 4th over this distance, showing on pace throughout. She can be on pace again here and stripping fitter for that run, she can win. (2) GOLDEN CARD enters off a best to date 3rd place over 1400M on July 4th. In this company, she can sit just behind the speed, Tanaka climbs on for the first time, and she can be a danger. There are three debut-makers and (11) GLOBAL FORCE looked very good in her trial, leading for much of the way before ultimately crossing the line in 2nd in a quick time. She has the challenge of the widest gate but if she brings that form to the races, she has every chance. (9) WORLD TRIPLE CAT and (7) SEONGSIL WORLD others in the hunt.
Selections
(4) Mother Wonderful (2) Golden Card (11) Global Force (9) World Triple Cat
Next Best
7, 1
Fast Start
1, 4, 9, 11
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(7) SWEET BELLE was 2nd on debut at the end of May before running 5th on July 11th when failing to get to the lead from the gate. She is worth another chance here and if she can lead, she can win. (9) DOCTOR CHRIS went through three trials, improving in the latest of them to 3rd in a quick time (it was voluntary so may not be in all racecards, but it was on July 19th in a time of 62.6 seconds). That form at the races will see him very close. (6) SEOBU GAMBLE didn’t do a lot in two starts around the turn of the year, but he was much better when an on-pace 3rd on his return on July 4th. He should have derived benefit from that run and can match or better it today. (3) FINAL HIT and (1) CARAT KING are others to consider.
Selections
(7) Sweet Belle (9) Doctor Chris (6) Seobu Gamble (3) Final Hit
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 6, 7, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(9) STUKA was a strong on pace maiden winner over 1400M on June 27th. We won’t pay much attention to the very fast time as the track was lightning quick that weekend, but we will to the margin of ten-lengths and while she is up in class, she is down in weight, and she can win again. (11) BROWN ROOKIE has only won once but has been consistent with back-to-back 3rd places from her latest two, both at this class. She likes to come from off the pace so the wide draw is no problem, and she can be in the finish again here. (8) SEOBU CAPTAIN has a poor day at the office when well supported but slow away and never a factor on July 6th. We’ll instead go on his prior effort when a class and distance winner from the front and give him another chance here. July 6th winner (7) SEOGWI STAR along with (1) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE are others in the frame.
Selections
(9) Stuka (11) Brown Rookie (8) Seobu Captain (7) Seogwi Star
Next Best
1, 2
Fast Start
3, 4, 6, 9
Busan Race 5: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) SEUNGCHUNHANEUNHAE enters off a 3rd place over 1400M on June 27th when sitting midfield and running on. Third-up this preparation, he can be peaking and coming back up to the mile can suit. (7) HOUND POKER is yet to finish in the top two in eight attempts but has five finishes between 3rd and 5th. He ran a fair 4th on his first try at a mile on June 27th coming from well off the pace and he can be finishing strongly again here. (6) SEATTLE DREAM beat three of today’s rivals on her way to 3rd when stepped up to a mile on July 11th and she can be in the mix here. (5) HEAVY DUTY was well fancied for that race but was fractious and difficult to control throughout. He does have a 2nd to his name over the mile and may warrant another chance. (2) GLORY ALPHA another in the hunt.
Selections
(3) Seungchunhaneunhae (7) Hound Poker (6) Seattle Dream (5) Heavy Duty
Next Best
2, 9
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 9
Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies (and one mare) only here. Debuting last September with a 2nd place, (5) NICE BUDDY finally returned in June and was a front-running winner over 1200M. She followed up with a 2nd place on her first try at this class on July 6th, having led for most of the way around, and she will be hot favourite to go one better today. It’s not a strong set of rivals. (1) CHEONHAJIYU is yet to win in seven attempts but has three runner-up finishes to her name, including one at this class. She draws well and can place. (8) WE LIKE MONEY returned from six months out to run 4th at this class over 1300M on July 4th. She can strip fitter here and be close. (2) TRIPLE DREAM and (4) ROAD TO SPRING are other place chances.
Selections
(5) Nice Buddy (1) Cheonhajiyu (8) We Like Money (2) Triple Dream
Next Best
4, 9
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 9
Busan Race 7: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Seoul flies solo on Sunday with a bumper 14-race program from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens will all but one racing for the first time. Favourite, and a short priced one at that, will be (2) DI NE. He was the quickest in trials, running 2nd in his heat behind Wonpyeong Sket, who was a comfortable winner on debut a couple of weeks ago. Well drawn to lead, he can go all the way. (4) MUNHAK DAESE will be second favourite. She went through two trials, setting fair times in both and improving to 2nd place in the second of them. She too can be on pace. Experience can count for plenty in these types of races so while (10) DDATTEUTHAN WIRO only managed 5th on debut (well beaten by Wonpyeong Sket), he can have come on for the run. Returning to the first timers, (6) MIGHTY BEAT and (1) SMART RISE hinted at ability in their trials.
Selections
(2) Di Ne (4) Munhak Daese (10) Ddatteuthan Wiro (6) Mighty Beat
Next Best
1, 9
Fast Start
2, 4, 6, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies (and one mare) only in this maiden and we’ll take a chance on the solitary debut-maker. That’s (5) RAON FINAL, who showed on pace in her trial, leading close to the line and ultimately finishing a close 2nd in a decent time. She draws well and if she brings that form to the races, she has every chance first up. (3) WHITE ROMANCE has made progress across her latest couple, most recently when 3rd at 1300M on June 28th. She has been ridden on pace in her latest two so expect similar here and she should be close. (11) CRAZY MARI has a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two and while she has the widest gate to contend with, she shouldn’t be far away. (10) UBERMENSCH and (2) DAEHAN COCO’S others in the mix.
Selections
(5) Raon Final (3) White Romance (11) Crazy Mari (10) Ubermensch
Next Best
2, 8
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Small field but a tricky puzzle. (9) SECRET WOLF beat a couple of these on her way to 4th place on her first try at this distance on May 11th. She has a strong finish on her and while she has had a couple of months off, she has as good a chance as any here. (1) BLACK SMILE comes back in trip having run 4th last time out over 1700M. She has a 3rd place to her name over the 1400M and should be well in this. (7) MANGPHA overcame a wide draw to run a fair 5th at 1300M on June 22nd. In the absence of any early speed, she may well be ridden much further forward today and can be a danger. (4) P N S JU and (6) TTOSUNI SEOUL others in the frame.
Selections
(9) Secret Wolf (1) Black Smile (7) Mangpha (4) P N S Ju
Next Best
6, 8
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Another tricky one. (2) WHITE CARLA was a winner on debut in March and then put in two fair efforts at this class in April and May. He looked very well when wininng a trial last week and so long as he didn’t leave his race there, can win here. (8) VINCERO KING is a winner of just one of thirty starts but his recent form reads well, with his latest being a close 3rd in a tight finish at this class and distance on June 15th. A similar effort will see him right in the finish again. (1) SONGDANG HWANGTAEJA remains a maiden after seven attempts but comes in off back-to-back runner-up finishes, both at this class and distance. He can get a bit far back in his races, but if he is within striking distance in the straight, he has as good a chance as any here. (5) SOLAIRE and (3) GEUMSEONG POWER are the other main chances.
Selections
(2) White Carla (8) Vincero King (1) Songdang Hwangtaeja (5) Solaire
Next Best
3, 5
Fast Start
2, 3, 6, 10
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
The fields may not be big, but they’re not making them easy today. (9) MALSGO got his maiden win at the ninth time of asking on June 28th, making all at this distance. He comes up in class, but is down 3.5kg in weight, and he can win again. (3) NONSTOP YEOLCHA enters off 3rd place at this class and distance on June 15th when he led for much of the way. That marked a change in tactics so expect similar here and he can be in this a long way. (7) LOVE SCARLET is up in class following two 2nd places from her latest two outings. Lightly weighted, she can measure up in this company. (1) GEOSEN POKJU and (6) SEMYEONG DIA are other place chances.
Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) MUJEHAN GEUP was a winner on debut over 1200M, coming from midfield to comprehensively score over 1200M. He comes up in class, but is down in weight, the slight step up in trip can suit, and he can maintain his 100% record. (7) SONE SONJABGO managed to win her first two outings and while she may be a cautionary tale for Mujehan Geup as she hasn’t scored in nine since, she has been consistently close. She has two 3rd places and a 4th from her latest three and in this company should be matching or bettering. (4) YEOWANG SOCKS has placed in both her latest two. She is versatile in terms of her racing style but in this company should be on pace from the start. (5) CHAMP HAMSEONG and (8) CHROMITE are the other place chances.
With Busan taking the weekend off, Seoul ploughs a lone furrow in thoroughbreds (there is pony racing on Jeju on Friday and Saturday). The capital hosts 9 races on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) PERFECT DANAEUN was much improved on his return from a three-month layoff on June 14th, racing handy and finishing 3rd over this distance. He should strip fitter for that run and will be favourite to score here. (4) TIGER K has a 2nd place on his resume and enters off solid 3ed and 4th places over this distance. Drawn well, he shapes as the pacesetter and should be in this a long way. (6) AWESOME STEP has been on the fringes of the places across her five starts to date and should be there or thereabouts again. (3) JEULGEOUN SANGSANG, with a line through his latest, and (7) JINJUUI SIMJANG are others to consider on a place line.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(5) WONDERFUL CATHY seems to be figuring things out and has a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, both at this distance. From a central draw, she’ll be on pace, Ruan Maia knows her well, and she is the one to beat. (2) EUNPA SWEET has four finishes between 3rd and 5th including last time out on what was her first try at this distance. She can settle just behind the early speed here and can be finishing strongly. (7) BULGEUNTAEYANG was beaten by Eunpa Sweet last time out but has similarly hinted at ability with some positive finishes and he has the fastest final furlong average time in the field. He can be coming on strong at the end again. (8) X FACTOR and (6) SAINT WINNER are other place chances.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies only here. After running 4th in a slow race on debut, (2) GOLD CATCHER has won two in a row, most recently in a similar all-filly race at this class and distance on July 6th when settling right back and running on. She only comes up 2kg in weight and she should have the beating of this lot. (8) GOOD FRIEND remains a maiden but was a solid 4th on her first try at this class on July 6th and continuing under a light weight, she can be in the mix to go closer. (10) BISANG BELL is up in class following her maiden win at 1300M on June 1st. She comes in fresh after eight weeks off and down in weight, she can measure up in this company. (3) YEONGWON POTEN and (7) YES MADAM among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Gold Catcher (8) Good Friend (10) Bisang Bell (3) Yeongwon Poten
Next Best
7, 4
Fast Start
4, 6, 7, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(8) BEOLGYO DESTINO was a winner on debut last December before running 5th on his first try at this class in January. He hasn’t raced since having suffered from inflammation in his left hind leg, but he has been in regular work and looked well enough in a May trial. He may be worth a chance first up. (1) WANGCHOEGO is yet to win in eleven attempts but has no fewer than five placings to his name, including a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two. From the inside gate, Jang Chu-youl can pick his spot and he is a big danger. (3) SMART A ONE is another maiden but is up in class having begun her career with a 3rd and a pair of 2nd places She is down in weight and can be competitive in this company. (2) STUNNING WORLD and (7) GEOSEN JIJON others in the hunt.
Selections
(8) Beolgyo Destino (1) Wangchoego (3) Smart A One (2) Stunning World
Next Best
7, 6
Fast Start
3, 5, 6, 11
Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
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:
Eclipse The King (red cap) was 3rd in the Derby and returns to action for the first time since (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Twelve previously unraced two-year-olds here so we must head to the trial videos. (11) KING MASTER ran 3rd in his trial behind a horse who has gone on to win (and, in fairness, one who has not). He showed close to the pace and with Moon Se-young booked, will have plenty of backers. (5) LIVE STAR beat a couple of today’s rivals when running 5th in his heat, coming from well off the pace. 1200M should suit first up. (4) GEOSEN PUNCH led in his trial, ultimately coming 2nd in a fair time. That was back in mid-May, so it has taken a while for him to get to the races, but he draws well to lead again. (3) THUNDER RUN and (12) JIJON BULPAE others who hinted at ability.
Selections
(11) King Master (5) Live Star (4) Geosen Punch (3) Thunder Run
Next Best
12, 7
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After a series of trials, (8) RAON FLORENCE finally debuted on May 31st and showed ability with a 2nd place over this distance, showing on pace throughout. He should have come on for that run, and he can go one better today. Debut maker (3) CHRYSOL STONE was a trial winner in June, settling midfield and running on. 1200M can suit first up and she can challenge here. (4) SILLAUI FIGHTER led on debut over 1300M ultimately finishing in 4th place. He should have come on for the experience and nicely drawn can lead again and be in this a long way. (7) MADE and (9) THE EXCELLENT are others who could potentially improve from their respective debuts.
Selections
(8) Raon Florence (3) Chrysol Stone (4) Sillaui Fighter (7) Made
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
1, 2, 4, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) HAKSAN PRINCE enters off a best to date 2nd place over 1300M on Juen 22nd when settling back and running on. Ruan Maia climbs on for the first time and he won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this. Nothing else enters off a very good start so we’ll go on the past form of (6) CUPID K. Her latest couple of outings have been indifferent but she has four finishes between 2nd and 5th in her seven total appearances and that’s enough to put her in the mix here. (1) SPICE BAND has finished 6th in both her starts so far, both over 1200M. She has been doing her best work late so the step up to 1400M can suit. (3) LUGE and (2) SMART NOTION are other place chances.
Selections
(4) Haksan Prince (6) Cupid K (1) Spice Band (3) Luge
Next Best
2, 8
Fast Start
2, 4, 6, 8
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
It’s hard to go past (1) HEUIMANG TAYO here. After a 2nd place on debut, he ran 3rd from the widest gate in a quick race on June 22nd. Both of those were over 1200M and from a much better draw, he can get an easy run to the lead and will be a short price to break through. (2) MAMBO SIDAE picked up with a 3rd place at start number three over 1300M on June 20th. She can settle just behind the pace here and she can challenge late on again. (10) ILLUSION is yet to finish any better than 4th, something she has done in three of her last four starts. In this company, she should be aiming to match or better that. (3) AMAZING ONE and (5) GRACE CAL are others in the hunt.
Selections
(1) Heuimang Tayo (2) Mambo Sidae (10) Illusion (3) Amazing One
Next Best
5, 11
Fast Start
1, 3, 9, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(4) ANYANGBITCHUISOKDO was a winner on debut over 1000M on June 21st, showing on pace throughout. He is up in class and up in distance today, but he should have come on for that run and from a good draw, he can lead again and win again. (9) SEOUL BINGO took a couple of goes to get accustomed to this class, but he comes in off a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, both at this class and both times racing close to the pace. In this company he too can be on the speed again and in this a long way. (2) ROAD TO A SPUR and (1) SAEROUN GUY are both still maidens. The latter was much better than the former when they raced one another on June 14th but from good draws, both can be in the mix here. (7) GROW another in line for the minors.
Selections
(4) Anyangbitchuisokdo (9) Seoul Bingo (2) Road To A Spur (1) Saeroun Guy
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
2, 4, 9, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(2) SPEED TOP has two wins, and three runner-up finishes from five starts so far with his latest being a success at this class over 1200M in a quick time on June 8th. He comes up 3.5kg in weight but he doesn’t seem to be done yet and he can win again here. (9) SANGIM BOLT beat three of today’s rivals when a front-running winner at this class and distance on June 29th. That was just his second win in twenty-two starts and he is up by the same 3.5kg, but in this company, he can be competitive. (10) DOCTOR HAPPY led for much of the way around on her first try at this class over 1200M last time out. She comes in fresh after eleven weeks off and can be in the mix. (1) QUEEN AND SERVE and (3) MEETING ST are other place chances.
Selections
(2) Speed Top (9) Sangim Bolt (10) Doctor Happy (1) Queen And Serve
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
1, 3, 9, 10
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies only. (2) LALA GIRL is yet to win in seven attempts, but she registered three consecutive runner-up finishes between March and May including at this class and distance. She took a bump at the start when beaten by a couple of these on June 22nd but with a cleaner getaway, today can be her day. (8) RAIN STAR was 2nd in that June 22nd race having been slow away and had to come from a long way back. That has been a bit of a pattern for her, but she is a winner at this distance and can be a threat. (5) TEUKGEUP PARTY and (6) MUNHAK FIGHTER both come up in class following last start maiden wins and both can measure up in this company. (9) SILK SPECTER and (3) I AM GO others in the frame.
Selections
(2) Lala Girl (8) Rain Star (5) Teukgeup Party (6) Munhak Fighter
Next Best
3, 7
Fast Start
2, 3, 7, 9
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Aqua Line, last year’s Breeders’ Cup Rookie winner, makes a long overdue return on Saturday (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in the opening maiden. (7) JISAN FRIEND has shown progress across her five starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over this distance on June 21st when close to the pace throughout. Kozzi knows her well and she can go one better today. Joining her on the early speed will be (1) DALBIT SONATA. She enters off a significantly improved 3rd place at 1300M on June 28th when she led for much of the way. She should be in this a long way too. There are three debut makers and all three showed enough in their respective heats to suggest they can be given a chance first up in this company. (6) NAMSAN MINYEO and (4) CHIEF STAR both showed on pace in their trials and can do so again while (8) VOSTOK took a couple of goes to qualify but similarly stopped the clock in good time and can be a factor.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) YONGBI SHINHWA ran 3rd on debut over 1000M on May 31st having led for most of the way. The time wasn’t quick, but he should have come on for the run and from a great draw he can lead again and potentially go all the way. (2) CHEONGRYONG GIUN needs a line drawn through his latest on June 22nd when knocking up quite fast. His form going into that was good though and Moon Se-young staying on will mean plenty give him another chance. Those two will top most quinellas although the step up in trip may suit (11) JILPUNGA, who has run on well twice to no avail at 1000M. (7) BS STORM and (4) GOLDEN MAKER others in line for the minors.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) GOLD QUEENS was slow away when well-fancied over 1400M on June 15th and ultimately ran last, albeit in a race where the margins weren’t huge. She came into that race off a 3rd place and then back-to-back runner-up finishes so from a good draw, is worth another chance in this company. (11) HANEUL GAMDONG has mixed his form across six outings but enters off a close 2nd place this class over 1200M on June 21st when coming from a long way back. CC stays on and the wide draw can suit again. (4) HOLY KAISER did nothing in his first two starts before running out a surprise winner on June 14th over this distance. He is up in class but down in weight and could provide some each-way interest. (9) RAON NIZHINSKII and (10) MENI SHARK are others in the frame.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) HAKSAN CAIRO is yet to win in eleven attempts but has never finished any worse than 5th and enters off a desperately close 2nd place at this class and distance on June 15th when handy throughout and just getting edged out late. Ruan Maia stays on and today he can go one better. (1) EUMSEONG POWER has a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, most recently at this class and distance on June 1st. He likes to settle back and run on, and he can be a danger late here. (5) RAON THE AFFIRMED is another maiden but all of her starts have ended with her placed between 3rd and 5th. In this company she can be on pace and can be there or thereabouts again. (6) YEONGGWANGUI SKY and (4) GOOGOO others to consider.
Selections
(7) Haksan Cairo (1) Eumseong Power (5) Raon The Affirmed (6) Yeonggwangui Sky
Next Best
4, 9
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 6
Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
It’s been a wet week on the peninsula but racing is set to get underway on Friday at Busan with 8-races from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Boryeonglightqueen won the final leg of the Triple Tiara and she returns on Friday (Pic: KRA)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Ten previously unraced juveniles so we must head to the trial videos. By some margin (10) SUPEX WINNER was the standout leading for most of the way in his trial and crossing the line 1st in a quick time. The track was running very fast that week nevertheless, the manner of that effort means he has to go on top. (7) CLEARLY WINNER ran a close 2nd in her heat, settling midfield and running on well. If she brings that form to the races, she can go close first up. (3) JEONGMUN SKIP showed on pace in his trial and from a good draw can do similarly here. (8) POWER HIT and (1) SUCCESS DAY are others who hinted at ability. As ever in these kinds of races, watch the market for further clues.
Selections
(10) Supex Winner (7) Clearly Winner (3) Jeongmun Skip (8) Power Hit
Next Best
1, 6
Fast Start
3, 7, 8, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden, with five of the eleven racing for the first time. There isn’t a huge amount of convincing form but (1) NAMYANG RUBY does have a 3rd and a 2nd on her record, and while they were recorded in her first two starts last year before a five-month layoff, she showed signs of returning to form with a 5th place last time out. She won’t need to improve much to win this and in a race with zero obvious early speed, might as well lead from the inside gate. (8) OWNER CHAMP has a pair of 5th places. She was well back behind a god winner in a very quick race on June 29th, but a similar effort will see her in the mix here. (7) TOP BLUE improved at start number three on June 20th and can continue to make progress in this company. The debut-makers do not catch the eye so (5) CHAMPUI SIDAE and (2) WONDERFUL WIND are probably the safest other alternatives.
Selections
(1) Namyang Ruby (8) Owner Champ (7) Top Blue (5) Champui Sidae
Next Best
2, 11
Fast Start
1, 2, 7, 8
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After taking a couple of goes to figure things out, (1) SUN LIGHT has come from well off the pace to register a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from her latest three starts. The step up to a mile can suit, and she can win here. She may have more improvement in her than probable favourite (3) DIA MATE. The latter enters off back-to-back 3rd places, both at this distance and with Seo Seung-un staying on seems sure to start as the market leader. (8) COME ON GLORY ran 2nd on her only previous try at this distance in March and in this company should be close to the pace with every chance of being in the finish. (9) DOCTOR CARA and (5) CHAMP KING others in the frame.
Selections
(1) Sun Light (3) Dia Mate (8) Come On Glory (9) Doctor Cara
Next Best
5, 4
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies only here and very competitive. (6) DOCTOR KAREN comes in having run 2nd at this class over 1200M at big odds on July 4th, leading for much of the way. Her win came at 1400M so she can lead again with every chance of staying all the way. (10) STAR FORCE comes up in class having led all the way over a mile on June 27th. She is down 3kg in weight and can measure up. (11) BREEDO MIRACLE was a winner at this class over 1200M in a similar all-filly race on June 15th. She only comes up 1.5kg in weight, the wide draw shouldn’t matter, and she has solid claims again. (8) QUEEN SPICY and (4) JINJU BIT among plenty of others with at least placing chances.
Selections
(6) Doctor Karen (10) Star Force (11) Breedo Miracle (8) Queen Spicy
Next Best
4, 2
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 9
Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00, and at Busan where there a6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Imported maidens with five of the eight racing for the first time. It’s an absurdly big prize for an ordinary-looking set and despite a poor debut (1) SMILE DAY will be favourite. After winning a trial, he was sent off as favourite on debut but after starting slowly, only manage to rally for 7th. With a better start here and a but more maturity, he can be given another chance. (5) CRAZY STAR ran fairly in his trial for 3rd place in a decent enough time. If he brings that to the races, he will be close. (2) MYEONG MAN was dreadful in his first two but has since been back to trial and looked better. He draws well and surely improves in this company. (8) SYDNEY YEONGUNG was 2nd in both his trials and along with (4) NARO MA STAR, will have backers on a place line.
Selections
(1) Smile Day (5) Crazy Star (2) Myeong Man (8) Sydney Yeongung
Next Best
4, 3
Fast Start
2, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
A slightly better maiden. (8) ALIFER has been gradually progressing across her six starts to date, culminating in a 2nd place on June 7th in a filly only maiden at 1300M. She has never actually been tried over the six-furlongs but in this company, she can sit just behind the speed, and she has as good a chance as any. (9) SOMETHING DARK enters off a best to date 3rd place at 1300M when ridden a bit further forward than in prior efforts. Given similar tactics here, he can be close again. (6) HWANGGEUM MASK has three consecutive 4th place finishes, all at 1300M and should be there or thereabouts again. (3) YONGAM SARANG and (11) MR.CARA are others in the frame.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
More maidens. (10) MYEONG POWER has been working towards a win and comes in having registered his best finish so far when 2nd at 1400M on May 25th when ridden on pace for the first time. Despite the wide draw, he can be up there early again, and this time he can win. (9) CHEONGHAE STAR has a couple of 3rd place finishes to her name, including last time out in a filly only maiden at this distance on June 7th when settling midfield and running on. She has the fastest time for the 1300M and should be aiming to match or better that 3rd place here. (1) RAON PARANOMA should get an easy run to the lead from the inside gate and third-up can be peaking. (11) HERO CHOICE and (7) VALKYRIE are other place chances.
Selections
(10) Myeong Power (9) Cheonghae Star (1) Raon Paranoma (11) Hero Choice
Next Best
7, 4
Fast Start
1, 4, 10, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
Fillies and mares only here and it’s hard to go against (5) YEOSU SUPER STAR. After winning her first two to get promoted to this level in double-quick time, she ran a very good 2nd on her first try at this class and distance on June 6th, racing handy throughout. She should have benefitted from that experience and continuing under a light weight, she should be going one better. (3) UNION CHAMP is the danger. A promising juvenile last year she missed six months but returned in April to win over 1300M and then run 2nd at 1400M at this class. The mile can suit and third-up she can be peaking. (6) LIME TREE comes out of the Triple Tiara where she was 4th in both the Luna and the Oaks and then 5th in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup. Lightly weighted, she should be in the mix. (2) WONDERFUL CUTIE and (8) ACE HIGH others in the hunt.
Selections
(5) Yeosu Super Star (3) Union Champ (6) Lime Tree (2) Wonderful Cutie
Next Best
8, 1
Fast Start
3, 5, 6, 8
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies (and one mare) only. (7) SSAK DANAEUN didn’t do much on debut last November and didn’t reappear until April. She has been much better with a win and a 3rd in two starts back, the latter at this class over 1300M on May 25th, racing on pace. She can be on or close to the speed here and can win. (10) SONEULNAMILOE got her maiden win two starts back and then ran 3rd at 1300M having led for most of the way on June 14th. Her draw isn’t ideal but with some early luck she can get forward and be a danger. (3) ALL NUT comes back to the distance at which she got her win and from a good draw and with Moon Se-young up, she will have plenty of supporters (11) YEOWANG SOCKS and (4) EXCELLENT HANSEN others who can go close.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Several of these raced each other over this distance on June 15th, including (7) POWER STONE, who was making his debut. He ran well, overcoming a slow start to finish 3rd, and with some natural improvement, he can win this. That will mean overturning the form on (9) JUST SHINY, who was 2nd in that race, showing handy throughout. He can sit on or close to the speed and he should be close again today. (4) SUCCESS POWER was 4th in that race. That continued a progression from his debut, and he is another who can be on the early speed and in this a long way. (8) GLORY SUNSHINE and (2) VICTORY STORY are others who can challenge for the places.
Selections
(7) Power Stone (9) Just Shiny (4) Success Power (8) Glory Sunshine
Next Best
2, 5
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 6
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
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