The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:25 to 18:00, Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Three-year-old maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. (11) GREAT TOP led for much of the way around on debut, ultimately finishing in 3rd place over 1200M. He has the challenge of the widest gate here but Seo Seung-un gets on and he can have come on for that run. (5) YEONGGWANGUI HONEY trialed well but got off to a bad start on debut before running-on well enough for 5th. She’s had eleven weeks off and a stalls test since then and with better manners she can improve today. Of the first timers, (3) TEUTA trailed well in January running 2nd having been handy throughout. Times don’t mean much at the moment, so she draws well and has every chance first-up. (2) SEUNGNI YEYAK and (10) MEANINGFUL TIME, the latter another debut-maker, others who could figure.
Selections
(11) Great Top (5) Yeonggwangui Honey (3) Teuta (2) Seungni Yeyak
Next Best
10, 7
Fast Start
3, 8, 9, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) GLOBAL HIGH has a 3rd, a 2nd and a 4th from his three starts so far, all at 1200M. He has shown both on pace and come from behind, depending on his draw so in today’s company he should be on or close to the speed, and he can get it right. (12) EAST SUN led for much of the way around at this distance on January 26th, ultimately finishing in 3rd, her second time finding just two too quick. She has to contend with the widest gate here but if she can find a handy position, she should be in the finish. (7) SUCCESS COW has picked up in his latest couple with a 3rd and a 2nd at this distance and 1400M. He has been one-paced but should have enough about him to challenge for a place again. Last start runner-up (1) HANEUL POKPUNG will be on pace and in this a long way. (11) HOUND POKER is another chance.
Selections
(3) Global High (12) East Sun (7) Success Cow (1) Haneul Pokpung
Next Best
11, 5
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 12
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(11) DONGBANG JEONSA has made progress across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place at this distance on January 10th, when settling midfield and running on. He’ll want a forward position early so may need a touch of luck at the start from the wide draw, but he shapes as the one to beat here. (8) BABEL COME ON ran 3rd in that January 10th race, her best to date when handy throughout. Expect similar tactics today and she can be close again. (7) TRIPLE J has shown his best in trials so far without managing to bring it to the races. It’s sixteen weeks since we saw him in the afternoon, but he looked – as ever – well when 3rd in a January trial, and he has to be given another chance in this company. (3) ARIONUI GEOM has finished 5th in both outings so far, beating a couple of these along the way and that’s enough to expect him to improve. (5) DIVINE KINGDOM another with place hopes.
Selections
(11) Dongbang Jeonsa (8) Babel Come On (7) Triple J (3) Arionui Geom
Next Best
5, 6
Fast Start
6, 8, 10, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(9) YULIM SESANG will be favourite. He got his win over this distance at start number two last November when leading all the way and has since run 3rd and 2nd in two tries at this level, beating plenty of today’s rivals in the process. He’ll be on the speed and should return to winning ways. (10) CHEONGWAN got her maiden win at the third time of asking on November 15th when leading all the way over this distance. She comes up in class but is down 2kg in the weights and she can measure up in this company. (1) KING FIGHTER scored at this class and distance at big odds on January 17th, leading all the way. He was third-up that day so could have been peaking, and he is up 3kg in weight, but he shouldn’t be dismissed. (8) BURUI PYEONGHWA and (2) GLORY GANGSEO others to consider.
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (4) DRAGON PUNCH returned from over six months off on January 17th to run 4th over 1200M, sitting handy throughout and running on well. She should strip fitter for that run and is the one to beat here. (10) CHRYSOL HERO broke through at start eleven over this distance in a filly maiden on January 10th, coming from off the pace. She comes up in class here but is down in weight and may make for some appeal at a probable each-way price. (3) SEUNGNI GITBAL was a winner at this class and distance in a very similar race to this on January 5th, sweeping home from well back. She’s up in weight but comes into a better gate and a repeat shouldn’t be completely ruled out. (2) SEVEN QUEEN and (12) MOTHER CHUKJE others in the frame.
Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 16:35). Here are the previews:
Derby Winner Eunpa Sarang faces up and comer Wonpyeong Storm on Sunday (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(8) AFLEET RUN ran a close 3rd over this distance on debut in December, racing on pace throughout. That led him to be sent off as favourite on his return on January 11th, but he took a bump at the start causing him to stumble and he never really recovered. We can draw a line through that and the Spun To Run gelding can be given another chance as favourite here. Debut-maker (2) DALBIT GEURIMJA may be the main danger. She showed at the front in her trial, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place and from a good draw, if she brings that form to the races, she should be close. The form is patchy among the rest. (9) HERO CHOICE ran a fair 6th on debut and looks the most likely to improve. (3) YES ANGEL on trial form and (7) ECLIPSE LUCKY the others.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(11) GIANT BOSS ran 6th on debut in November and then led until the middle of the home straight on December 28th before ultimately finishing in 3rd place. Third-up he can be peaking fitness wise, Kim Yong-geun booked is a plus, and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, he is the one to beat. (3) ECO FORE did nothing in his first three starts, but since returning from a more than eight-month layoff in December, he has shown signs of figuring things out with a 5th and a 4th and from a great draw he can go even closer this time. (8) HWANGGEUM MASK and (10) ARCH DAY came home 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced one another over this distance on January 5th, with a couple more of today’s behind them. Both should be in the mix again in this company. (1) HYEWONYONGMA ran 2nd two starts back and on the strength of that, can be considered.
Selections
(11) Giant Boss (3) Eco Fore (8) Hwanggeum Mask (10) Arch Day
Next Best
1, 6
Fast Start
1, 5, 10, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(9) DIXIE MAN has two 3rd place finishes among three starts so far, most recently over 1300M on January 11th when settling midfield and running on. He’s drawn wide every time so far so gate nine won’t be a problem and Moon Se-young stays on. Today can be the day. The main danger is (3) YEOLJEONGMA. After running 6th on debut, he was an improved 3rd when tried at this distance on January 4th. Both times he has settled at the back before finishing strongly and he can be powering home late here. (8) WILD HAPPY was an improved 4th at start number three at 1200M on January 4th. She too has been doing her best work late in races having gone back and she may appreciate the additional furlong today. (6) SONGDANG HWANGTAEJA and (2) MG FIRST among others in the placing frame.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive opener on the south coast. (3) MEGA MACHINE should have the edge, base don his last start 2nd at this distance on January 5th, when leading into the final furlong. He draws a much better gate today and that could be enough to get him home on top over limited opposition. (2) GUKDAE LEGEND has shown signs of figuring it out in his latest two with a pair of 4th places. This seems to be the distance for him and well-drawn, he can continue to improve here. (7) BAEDARI BOSEOK too enters off back-to-back 4th places and won’t need to be much better to get closer in this company. (6) DOCTOR CURLIN and (11) HI LEGEND are others who can content the minor money.
Selections
(3) Mega Machine (2) Gukdae Legend (7) Baedari Boseok (6) Doctor Curlin
Next Best
11, 6
Fast Start
1, 2, 9, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) RAON NIZHINSKII got his maiden win two starts back over this distance and then followed up with a 3rd place on his first try at this class, again over the 1300M, on December 29th, settling handy and running on and beating a couple of these in the process. A similar effort should see him home on top today. (4) MENI WIN got his maiden win last March at this distance but then didn’t reappear until November. He has a 5th in a 3rd two starts back and drawn nicely and with Johan aboard, can continue to make progress today. (8) FREE TIME won on debut over 1200M in November, making all. That led him to be favourite for his first try at this class on December 29th, but he raced wide and fiercely and ultimately finished 6th behind Raon Nizhinskii. A more fluent performance can see him closer today. (11) AUSTIN LEADER and (5) GEUMA FOREMOST are others to consider.
Selections
(7) Raon Nizhinskii (4) Meni Win (8) Free Time (11) Austin Leader
Next Best
5, 3
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 8
Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(1) BEOLMA KING has a win and two 3rd place finishes from three starts so far, the latest 3rd being his first try at this class on December 13th over 1300M, the same distance at which he got his win. He comes up to 1400M for the first time and from the inside gate, Jung Do-yun can pick his spot behind the speed, and he can win. (3) FLASH RUN got her maiden win at start three over 1300M on December 27th, leading for much of the way around. She comes up in class but is down in weight, draws nicely to be on pace again, and can measure up. (12) BEST PRIME is a fifteen-race maiden but has no fewer than nine top five finishes, most recently a close 2nd at this class and distance on January 17th. He is up 2kg on that, but the wide draw won’t matter, and he has the quickest final furlong among these on him. (10) TEAM SURPRISE and (9) EMPIRE DAY among plenty of others with at least place chances.
Selections
(1) Beolma King (3) Flash Run (12) Best Prime (10) Team Surprise
Next Best
9, 11
Fast Start
2, 7, 9, 11
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only and it’s very tricky as a genuine case can be made for most. We’ll take a chance with (9) MISS CONCORD. She got her maiden win at this distance last September and since then has a 2nd, a 4th, and a 3rd in three efforts at this class, most recently on January 5th at 1300M. In this company she can be ridden on or close to the pace and has as good a chance as any. That will mean overturning the form on (7) HERO JILJU, who was 2nd in that January 5th race, continuing a very consistent run of form. An apprentice keeps her weight nice and low, and she can be competitive again. (11) ANDAMIRO enters off a solid 3rd place in a very similar race to this on January 11th, coming from off the pace and a similar effort will see her close again. (1) BISANG DAY and (8) DAESEUNGMA among plenty of other chances.
Selections
(9) Miss Concord (7) Hero Jilju (11) Andamiro (1) Bisang Day
Next Best
8, 5
Fast Start
1, 7, 8, 9
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here and it’s hard to go far past (4) PARANG ENERGY. A winner at this distance on debut, she has a 3rd and a 4th in her two subsequent starts at the same distance at this class, with only a spin around 1400M being disappointing. She draws nicely to be on pace and Franco, who won on her is on. (12) B.K MAGIC comes up in having got her maiden win at 1200M on January 12th at this distance from a similarly wide draw. It was at this class so she comes up 3kg in weight but can be competitive again. (11) BROWN ROOKIE had a poor day at the office in that January 12th race, but prior to that was a good winner at this distance in December. She stays under a light weight and can be given another chance. (6) NEW LEADER and (5) THIS WAY, 2nd and 4th respectively when they raced each other on January 5th, are the other main place contenders.
Selections
(4) Parang Energy (12) B.K Magic (11) Brown Rookie (6) New Leader
Next Best
5, 7
Fast Start
4, 7, 11, 12
Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(3) ÉCLAIR POWER came from off the pace to run 3rd over 1400M at this class on January 12th. His win came when making all at 1300M last October and he does come up to race at 1800M for the first time. He has prior experience at 1700M (finishing 5th) and from a good draw, he can be in the mix today. The danger is (8) DAZZLE RUSH. He is yet to win in four starts but enters off three consecutive 2nd place finishes, most recently at this class over 1700M on January 5th, when he beat several of today’s opponents. He comes up 2.5kg in weights but if anything, the slight step up in trip can suit, and today could be his day. (6) CHOEGANG HYEONMA was 3rd in that January 5th race. He is yet to win in twelve but has finished in the top five on no fewer than ten occasions and should be there or thereabouts again. (10) GOLDEN BALL and (11) COSMO KING, 4th and 5th in that same race, are others in the minor money frame.
Selections
(3) Éclair Power (8) Dazzle Rush (6) Choegang Hyeonma (10) Golden Ball
Next Best
11, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 7
Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
There’s no real need to go further than (1) BIG MUSICAL STAR. He’s won two of his latest three, most recently at this class and distance on January 12th when scoring comfortably despite racing ungenerously with his head up and pulling wide to the finish to the extent he was sent back to trial. He came through the trial easily a couple of weeks ago and while he has the steadier of an additional 4kg, that’s balanced by a better draw, and he should win again. (8) AMAZING WORLD has only raced twice, improving to 3rd at start two over 1400M on January 3rd when he led. He comes up in trip and can continue to make progress. (2) NICE BIG GUY enters off a class and distance 2nd at the start of December. He is in fresh after ten weeks off and can be a factor. (11) BACKTOTHECHAMPION and (7) BEST CHAMP, the latter a class and distance winner just two starts back, are the others in the hunt.
Selections
(1) Big Musical Star (8) Amazing World (2) Nice Big Guy (11) Backtothechampion
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
1, 6, 8, 10
Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(2) SAINT LUCCA may not win out of turn, but he is very dependable with fifteen top five finishes. His latest victory was only two starts back so he arguably enters in the best form of his career and while he carries 4kg more than he did that day, he draws well, Ruan Maia is on, and he can win. (9) BAEKRYONG was 4th behind Saint Lucca back in December and while he was a well beaten favourite last time out when he pulled hard and raced with his head up before tiring, his previous form earns another chance here. (10) TIZ ENERGY took thirty-one starts to get his maiden win, but it was at this class and distance, and he followed it up with a runner-up finish to New Dolkong on December 21st. He carries his fair share of weight here but should be in the mix. (11) SINUI UNMYEONG and (8) SEONGEUN CROWN are others to consider.
Selections
(2) Saint Lucca (9) Baekryong (10) Tiz Energy (11) Sinui Unmyeong
Next Best
8, 3
Fast Start
1, 5, 9, 1
Busan Race 5: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(10) AREUMDAUN INYEON was a class and distance winner on December 22nd when settling right back and running on to pass them all. He comes up a full 4kg in the weights but has every chance of repeating here. (11) GRAY BOSS has an excellent record at 1800M with a win at class 4 level and two 2nd places at this class, most recently on January 3rd when racing on pace and beating plenty of today’s rivals in the process. He only comes up 1kg in the weights. and has run well from gate eleven before. (12) DOCTOR CAPTAIN had a poor day at the office in that January 3rd race but prior to that scored back-to-back wins over this distance and can ne given another chance here. (9) GREAT ONE and (8) STAR DAERO others to consider.
Selections
(10) Areumdaun Inyeon (11) Gray Boss (12) Doctor Captain (9) Great One
Next Best
8, 6
Fast Start
2, 3, 5, 6
Seoul Race 8: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
We’ll give (6) WHIZ IMPOSSIBLE a pass on his latest when he was well fancied but stumbled at start and then brushed the rail a couple of times before coming back slightly lame. He only missed a week of work and prior to that had shown good promise with a 3rd place at this distance. (11) YEONGWON BIG MAN returned from six months off to run a solid class and distance 3rd on December 29th. He should strip fitter for that run, and while he has to contend with the widest gate, he has a strong late turn of foot and can be a danger. (4) MIGHTY JOY has a win and three 4th place finishes to his name. He draws well to be on or close to the pace and while he has 57kg to contend with, he can be in the mix. Last start class and distance winner (10) SOARA TO TO along with (1) WINNING CHAMPION are others in the hunt.
Selections
(6) Whiz Impossible (11) Yeongwon Big Man (4) Mighty Joy (10) Soara To To
Next Best
1, 9
Fast Start
3, 4, 7, 9
Busan Race 6: Class 1 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million
(6) DAEAM JANGGUN comes in having run 3rd behind the excellent Black Mamba over 1200M on January 12th with a few of today’s rivals behind him. He comes up 3kg in the weights but Franco partnering for the first time is a plus and he can return to winning ways for the first time in a long time. (4) FANTASTIC KINGDOM was among those beaten by Daem Janggun in that January 12th race, having previously been an also-ran in the Listed Kookje Shinmun Trophy. At the start before, he was a very quick class and distance winner and while he has the steadier of 58.5kg on his back, at his best he can be formidable. That pair will top most quinellas. (8) DAEJI CHOICE ran 4th behind Daem Janggun in that January 12th race and is a class 1 winner as recently as November. (9) JEONGMUN COBIT and (1) CATCH THE VICTORY other each-way prospects.
Seoul Race 9: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(9) DRAGON BULPAE got his maiden win at start three last March and then didn’t race again until this January 4th. He made a very positive return, coming from off the pace to finish a close 2nd at this clas over 1200M. He carries 3kg more but should have derived plenty of benefit from the run and the step up to 1400M can suit. (7) SPALTA was sent off as favourite to snap his streak of five consecutive 2nd place finishes on January 12th. He duly did precisely that, unfortunately though it was in finishing 5th, rather than winning. He was, believe it or not, 2nd on his only previous try at 1400M, and normal service can resume today. (2) NAVY CAPTAIN is up in class following a win at this distance on December 14th. He draws well to be on pace and under a light weight, can measure up. (3) GUKDAE FIGHTER won in a double-quick time at this class and distance on January 4th, and despite an additional 5kg shouldn’t be dismissed. (1) PALATINO another in the hunt.
Seoul Race 10: Class 2 (2000M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million
(1) WONPYEONG STORM is one of the hottest prospects in Korean racing, having won all four of his starts so far, including one at Listed Juvenile level last November. He kicked off his three-year-old campaign with a comfortable win over a mile at class 2 level on January 5th, and while he is up 4.5kg in the weights and makes a big jump up in trip, he is the one to beat. He faces last year’s Korean Derby winner (9) EUNPA SARANG. The latter returned to winning ways at this class and distance on November 30th in a quick time for the 2000M, and while he too is up in weight to the tune of 4kg, that’s balanced by CC climbing on and he can be a danger to the favourite. (3) ZIGGURAT was 3rd behind Wonpyeong Storm over the mile a month ago and 2nd to Eunpa Sarang at this distance two starts back and should be in the mix again. (5) GEOLJAK ONE along with (7) HIGH GRAND are others in the placing frame.
Seoul Race 11: Class 1 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million
Competitive Class 1 with a ratings cap of 100. (9) I’M JJANG won three in a row before a long layoff that kept him out from last March until December. He ran a fair 5th on his return over 1200M on December 8th, looking like he needed the run. He should be better here and with Moon Se-young aboard as part of the 52kg he carries, he has an excellent chance back over the distance those aforementioned wins came at. (6) RAON FOREST enters off a win and two runner-up finishes from her latest two. Her target is probably the Queens’ Tour races that start in March she gives weight away here but isn’t to be underestimated. (11) VICS GO has plenty of quality and while he seems to bounce up and down the distances, he looks to have landed in this race nicely and Maia aboard is a plus. (3) FOREVER DREAM and (10) BOLT MAN the other main chances.
It’s been a cold and snowy week in Seoul. Saturday sees an 11-race card from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Two standouts. (9) SALVADOR ran 2nd on debut over 1200M on January 4th when slow away and settling a long way back before rapidly closing late. He should have come on for that run, the slight step up in trip can be in his favour, and he can go one better. (4) JECHUK LOG IN similarly ran 2nd n debut, well beaten by a good winner but doing plenty right, settling handy and running on. He draws a better gate and has every chance. (5) VINCERO CUE is the only one in the field who has raced twice already, securing a 3rd and a 5th, both at 1200M. He has raced on pace both times and should do the same here, with every chance to be in it a long way. (7) RYAN HEART, and (10) SONEULNAEMILEO, both 3rd on their respective debuts, are the others who will be in the market.
Selections
(9) Salvador (4) Jechuk Log In (5) Vincero Cue (7) Ryan Heart
Next Best
10, 2
Fast Start
4, 5, 7, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (11) TEUKGEUP PARTY led for much of the way around on debut on December 29th ultimately to succumbing to a good winner but posting a decent final furlong time herself. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but with a bit of luck at the start she can find a position and can go one better. (5) SAMJEONG LADY has raced twice, registering a 3rd and a 4th, both at this distance. She can sit just behind the speed here and third up can be peaking fitness wise. (1) GYEOUL JANGMI didn’t do much behind Teukgeup Party on debut, but she previously trialed well and the jockey booking will focus minds. (3) RACE ROSE, along with debut maker (10) JISAN FRIEND, are others to consider.
Selections
(11) Teukgeup Party (5) Samjeong Lady (1) Gyeoul Jangmi (3) Race Rose
Next Best
10, 7
Fast Start
2, 4, 10, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Ater running midfield from a wide draw on debut, (3) ROPPONGI DRAGON ran an improved 2nd at start two over this distance on December 29th, sitting behind the speed and running on strongly and beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. Expect similar tactics here and he will be a short price to prevail over a limited set of opponents. (1) YEONGWON POTEN has picked up a little in her latest couple, most recently a very close 2nd place at this 1300M on January 4th. She tries the two turns for the first time, and it may suit. (4) MARUBYEOL is a thirty-two-race maiden but comes in off her best ever finish when 3rd at this distance two weeks ago. This race is no harder. (10) BEST KINGDOM and (8) GRAND FLYING are others who may contest the money finishes.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(9) YEONHUI HERO remains a maiden having got promoted to this class with two close runner-up finishes over 1200M. He ran 4th on his first try at this level at 1300M on December 29th when slow away and always on the back foot but with a better start, he can be on pace here and can go all the way. (7) LEMON K got her breakthrough win at start number five on January 4th when leading all the way. That win had been coming and while she comes up in class today, she comes down in weight, she draws well, and she can be on pace and in this a long way again. (3) CANVASEN GO is another last start maiden winner and in similar circumstances with that win having been coming for a while. He draws well and can measure up in this company. (11) NAMSAN MINAM and (10) GANA POWER others in the hunt.
Selections
(9) Yeonhui Hero (7) Lemon K (3) Canvasen Go (11) Namsan Minam
Next Best
10, 6
Fast Start
2, 5, 6, 9
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
We’re back after the Lunar New Year break and there is a 9-race card at Busan on Friday. Here are the previews:
The actual Champion jockey at Busan (Pic: KRA)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. Among those first timers, (8) VANGIE went through two trials running 4th in the first of them on January 11th and then a much quicker 3rd on January 25th (the latter may not be in all race cards). The dam was a winner of six from ten, reigning actual champion jockey Franco Da Silva is on, and in this company, he has every chance first up. (9) HOMYEONG SHINHWA was an improved 3rd over this distance at start four on December 27th, overcoming a slow start to run on and she can go close again. (4) HANEUL GOLD was an on-pace 4th on debut a month ago over this distance. The time wasn’t quick, but the track was slow in January, and he can go closer here. (10) OVER THE ALLIE and first timer (7) RAON THE MASKE, are others in the frame.
Selections
(8) Vangie (9) Homyeong Shinhwa (4) Haneul Gold (10) Over The Allie
Next Best
7, 12
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (3) ACE HIGH ran 2nd on debut over this distance on December 27th, having previously won a trial. She sat handy throughout, she draws nicely again, and with some natural improvement, she can win this. She will be one of the shortest-priced favourites of the day. (2) DREAMMA is yet to finish in the top two in ten attempts but has no fewer than eight finishes between 3rd and 5th. She likes to sit midfield and run on and from a great draw she can aim to at least match those finishes today. (11) WONDERFUL FORTUNE has finished 5th in both appearances so far. This looks weaker and third-up she can be peaking. Tanaka climbs on and she can be a threat late. (6) NICE GIRL and (4) BAEKPAL BOEUN others who can challenge for places.
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) DAEJI DAEBONG stepped up to this distance for the first time on January 10th and beat three of these on his way to a very close 2nd place. He draws well, Franco stays on, and he can go one better today. (1) DREAM TREE hasn’t raced since October 25th when she was 3rd over this distance having been slow away and having an awkward trip and adding to a 2nd on her first try at the mile in September. She had a slight setback after that but has been in regular work since the end of December and while her fitness must be taken on trust, she is a chance. (4) OASIS GREEN has picked up in his latest two with a 5tha dn a 4th and the step up to a mile for the first time can suit. (11) FAIRY and (12) HOUDINI have hinted at ability and may improve.
Selections
(3) Daeji Daebong (1) Dream Tree (4) Oasis Green (11) Fairy
Next Best
12, 2
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 7
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Competitive race. Regardless that there are four last start winners, we’ll go with a maiden and (4) MAENGNYONG. He was 3rd in each of his first three starts up to this class and 1400M when he led. At his latest he took an early bump and then came home lame in the off foreleg having run 5th on January 10th. He only missed a week of work and fully fit he can win here. (2) SHASHA is the main danger. She was a class and distance winner two starts back before running 5th over 1200M on January 5th. She comes into a better gate today and should be close. (7) ROAD TO ACE got his maiden win at start two having led all the way over 1200M. He is up in class but looks to have plenty of scope for more development and should measure up. (1) HANEUL BOSS is one for one having led all the way on his debut on January 3rd and down in weight and drawn well, can be in this a long way again. (6) FLASH DAY another in the hunt.
Selections
(4) Maengnyong (2) Shasha (7) Road TO Ace (1) Haneul Boss
Next Best
6, 11
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 4
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(2) THE WIND has just the one win from eight starts but comes in having been 4th on each of last three starts, the latest two at this distance. He tends to get a long way back, but he comes into a much better gate today having drawn gate twelve in both his latest two. That means Tanaka can perhaps pick his spot a little easier and he can come through late – but in time – today. He will vie for favourite status with (6) FLYING THE LUCKY. He enters off a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two, both at this distance and both times beating a couple of today’s rivals. He too likes to come from off the pace and is a danger. (7) HWANHUIUI MOON got his maiden win two starts back at 1400M before running 5th when drawn wide over 1400M on his first try at this level on January 10th. He comes up to 1800M for the first time and in this company, there is no reason why it can’t suit. (10) ILNYEOM SINHWA and (1) STAR PARK are perhaps better than recent results suggest.
Selections
(2) The Wind (6) Flying The Lucky (7) Hwanhuiui Moon (10) Ilnyeom Sinhwa
Next Best
1, 8
Fast Start
4, 7, 9, 10
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(3) ALL TIME LEGEND stepped up to this trip at start number four on January 3rd, and having already registered two runner-up finishes and a 3rd, secured his maiden win with a front running effort. He is up in class but slightly down in weight, he draws well to be on pace again, and he can go back-to-back. (7) WATER DRAGON for his second win two starts back and then ran 2nd when favourite on his first try at this class on January 10th also at this distance having led until close to home. He only comes up 1kg in the weights and he will almost certainly start as favourite again to get it right this time. (5) NAEPYEON came from off the pace to run 2nd at this class and distance on December 27th. He has a smart finish on him and can be doing his best work late again here. (12) THUNDER FURY and (9) SANGSANGGEUISANG among others in the hunt.
Selections
(3) All Time Legend (7) Water Dragon (5) Naepyeon (12) Thunder Fury
Next Best
9, 11
Fast Start
1, 3, 6, 8
Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(2) SAMAKUI KKOT comes in off a gutsy victory over this distance at the end of December, giving trainer Peter Wolsley his last Korean winner. That’s meant an enforced stable change, but he’s landed on his feet with Bart Rice and while up in class he is down in weight and third-up after a lengthy absence, he may have more to give. (1) LEMON TREE is also up in class, in his case following a win and a runner-up finish in his latest two, both at this distance. The win came from a low draw when he was able to get on pace and he gets another here. That, in addition to a big weight drop to the tune of 4.5kg, puts him firmly in with a chance. (8) BEOLMA BROWN mixes his form but based on his last start class and distance 2nd on January 3rd when settling midfield and running on, must be considered here. (5) BINNANEUNGIL and (10) FLYING DANU others in the hunt in another competitive race.
Selections
(2) Samakui Kkot (1) Lemon Tree (8) Beolma Brown (5) Binnaneungil
Next Best
10, 3
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 10
Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(11) SKY ROJO beat four of these on his way to victory at this class and distance on January 17th when settling just behind the speed and proving too strong. He comes up a full 4kg in weight, but he is third up this preparation so may be even better, and he can win again. (6) BEOLMAUI ANGEL was rapidly promoted to this class with three consecutive wins between October and December, all at this distance and making all in each. He stepped up to 1400M for his first try at this class on January 3rd, leading but ultimately weakening to 5th. Back in trip and drawn well, he has every chance of returning to winning ways. (2) FINAL SEVEN has won his latest two, most recently at this class over 1400M on December 29th. He comes up a full 4kg but can be close again. (5) DRAGON REVENGER and (10) TAEWANG SINGI, the latter 3rd behind Sky Rojo last time, among others in the frame in a very competitive race.
Busan Race 9: Class 2 (2000M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million
Super finale for Friday. (10) BANG BANG BANG is up in class having won over 1800M at class 3 level on January 3rd. She comes up in class and in distance here but looks to be getting better with each run and under a light weight and with Munro at the controls, she may still have some upside. (5) BEOLMAUI MONSTER has won his latest two, most recently at this class over 1800M on December 27th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He has the steadier of 58kg this time, but is not to be dismissed. (3) LOVE KING IJI was a winner over 1800M two starts back and was then a desperately close 2nd on his first go at this class and distance on January 19th, racing 2nd the whole way around and beaten by a longshot winner. He once more carries his fair share of weight, but he draws well and has every chance of going one better. (9) B.J. CHIEF and (6) GEUMA HUGE HIT others to keep safe.
Selections
(10) Bang Bang Bang (5) Beolmaui Monster (3) Love King Iji (9) B.J. Chief
With the short Lunar New Year holiday now over, the 2025 Korean racing season gets underway in earnest in February with racing returning from its one week break on February 7th at Busan and with the first big race due to be run the following weekend.
Those aforementioned big leagues get underway with the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy over 1200M at Seoul on Sunday February 16th, a lead up to – if not an actual part of – the Sprint Series. Currently thirteen remain entered, chief among them Speed Young, winner of the Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) at Busan last summer and notably the best placed local finisher in the international G3 Korea Sprint over 1200M in September.
Vincero Cavallo was 6th in the Korea Sprint in 2024 and has won three out of four subsequent starts, most recently an impressive score after getting a long way back over 1200M at class 1 level on January 12th. An intriguing entry is Naol Sniper, who boasts a rating lower than only Speed Young. Were he to take his place in the gate, he would be tackling 1200M for the very first time (although he did win at five furlongs as a juvenile in 2022). Solid sprinters Raon The Point and Saenae Queen are also among the entries.
The following week, the Triple Crown picture is scheduled to start to take shape with the running of Classic trials over 1400M at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday February 23.
Group racing commences with the speedsters in the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) on Sunday March 9th while the route horses get their first chance for a big prize a week later at Seoul in the Herald Business Cup (2000M), the opening leg of the Stayer Series, on March 16th.
That latter race would normally have marked the seasonal debut for Korea’s top-rate horse, Global Hit. However, last year’s winner remains in Dubai where after a luckless opening effort at Meydan at the end of January, he will take his chance in the G2 Al Maktoum Classic on March 1st.
March 23rd sees the opening leg of the Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares with the DOnag Ilbo Trophy (1800M KOR-L) at Seoul. As it was in 2024, the series is split into Spring/Summer and Fall Winter with the three-year-olds expected to join the latter on the conclusion of the Triple Tiara.
This year’s Triple Crown series kicks off at Busan on April 6th with the KRA Cup Mile (1600M KOR-G2) before moving to Seoul for the Korean Derby (1800M KOR-G1) on May 11th and finally the Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G2) on June 15th.
For the three-year-old fillies, the Triple Tiara starts with the Luna Stakes (1600M KOR-L) at Busan on March 30th, followed by the Korean Oaks (1800M KOR-G2), also on the south-coast on May 4th, concluding with the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Seoul on June 8th.
International invitational races, the Korea Cup (1800M G3) and Korea Sprint (1200M G3) will be run on September 7th while eight other races are Listed in the International Blue Book, including the season finale Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) on November 30th.
Thoroughbred racing in Korea takes place on 50 weeks of the year, usually at Busan on Fridays and Sundays and at Seoul on Saturdays and Sundays.
Racing will take a one week break, with the action not resuming until February 7. We head into the holiday with Sunday cards at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 16:30). Here are the previews:
Success Baekpa won two legs of the Triple Crown last year. He goes in the feature on Sunday (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive maiden to open with. (1) SMART A ONE was a front-running 3rd on debut over this distance back on October 26th. She had a setback after that (ligament strain) but has been back in work since early this month and from a good draw, she can be on pace and has every chance here. (3) GINSHARI BOY led on debut at this distance on December 22nd HE ultimately fell away and finished back in the pack, but he should have come on for that experience and can be in this for longer. (2) INDIAN TAPIT ran a fair 5th on debut at the end of last month and she too can have derived benefit from the experience. (10) TROLL and (6) NAEGILUI ACE others who could be in the minor money frame.
Selections
(1) Smart A One (3) Ginshari Boy (2) Indian Tapit (10) Troll
Next Best
6, 8
Fast Start
1, 3, 8, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(10) ECLIPSE BLACK will be the warm favourite. After a shaky debut, he has put together a run of 3rd, 4th and most recently 2nd when stepped up to this distance for the first time on December 28th. He will want to be on pace, so he has the challenge of a wide draw, but CC stays on and he is very much the one to beat. (8) UMA DACHI was slow away at start two in that same race on December 28th but ran on very nicely to finish in midfield. With a better start, he can get much closer this time. (3) KING WARRIOR enters off an improved 3rd place at 1300M on December 22nd when on pace throughout. He comes up to the 1400M for the first time and from a good draw, it can suit. Debut maker (1) CHRYSOL DONGHAE along with (9) CYCLONE STAR are others to consider.
Selections
(10) Eclipse Black (8) Uma Dachi (3) King Warrior (1) Chrysol Donghae
Next Best
9, 5
Fast Start
3, 7, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (6) FLYING DAY ran out a winner on debut over 1200M in a filly maiden on December 29th when racing handy throughout. She comes up in class and in distance here, but neither should be an issue, and she can maintain her 100% record. (10) STUNNING PEARL got her maiden win at start number two in November and then ran 2nd on her first try at this class on December 15th over 1300M. She comes up slightly in the weights, but the draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can maintain her record of never being outside of the top three. (7) GAMUN PARTY enters off a maiden win on December 29th. It was at this class, so she comes up a full 3.5kg in the weights, but she warrants respect. (5) SEMYEONG DIA and (2) GROW other placing chances.
Selections
(6) Flying Day (10) Stunning Pearl (7) Gamun Party (5) Semyeong Dia
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies and mares only in the opening maiden on the south coast. (1) GLOBAL HEROINE ran 5th on debut before improving to 3rd at start number two over 1300M on December 27th, with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She led for much of the way that day and from the inside gate can so the same here and this time go all the way. (10) GWANGPUNG STAR has been 4th on both her outings so far, most recently behind Global Heroine in that December 27th race. She can settle back and run on and can be getting closer this time. (9) KKEUTPAN YEOGEOL improved to 4th at start two on November 29th. There isn’t much early speed in this race so she is one of the contenders to join Global Heroine on pace and she can be in this a long way. (8) WONDER MOCCASIN and (6) DOLPHIN KICK others in the hunt.
Selections
(1) Global Heroine (10) Gwangpung Star (9) Kkeutpan Yeogeol (8) Wonder Moccasin
Next Best
6, 2
Fast Start
1, 5, 8, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Competitive race. (6) SEOUL BINGO got her maiden win at start three over this distance on December 21st when ridden on pace for the first time. She comes up in class here but is down in the weights, Moon Se-young climbs on, and with similar tactics, she can win again. (8) SCALE KING got his maiden win at the eleventh time of asking at this class and distance on December 22nd, settling midfield and proving too strong. He comes up 3kg in the weights but can be competitive again and a danger late on. (7) BAEDARI KWAEGEOM saw her form go a little cold across last summer, but she finished off 2024 well with a 3rd and a 2nd. She comes in fresh off a nine-week lay off and can be in the mix again. (3) NAOL INDY and (5) WONPYEONG GWANGYA other minor money chances.
Selections
(6) Seoul Bingo (8) Scale King (7) Baedari Kwaegeom (3) Naol Indy
Next Best
5, 10
Fast Start
3, 5, 7, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) YOUNG SKYWALKER was a beaten favourite three times before finally breaking through at the fourth time of asking on December 29th when racing handy and running on. That was at this class and distance so he does come up 3.5kg in weight, but in this company, he should be on or close to the pace and the force can be with him once more. It only took (10) TOHAMSAN TIGER two attempts to get his maiden win, which he did at this distance on January 5th. He makes a quick return here up in class but down in weight and he can measure up. (5) SWORD MASTER was an also-ran in the Breeders’ Cup Rookie for juveniles in November but bounced back to run 2nd at this class over a mile just before Christmas, albeit a long way behind a very good-looking winner. He comes back to the trip at which he got his win and Munro knows him well. (4) YONGBI PAEWANG finished 3rd in two Listed events as a juvenile last term and back down in trip can be given a chance. (9) WORLD WINNERS MAN another to consider on a place line.
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(8) DREAM CARD returned from six months out in December and has run 3rd twice, both at this class and both over 1400M. He steps up to 1700M for the first time, but his style suggests it can suit and third up he can be peaking fitness wise. (6) SPEED CARA enters having beaten a few of these when an on-pace 3rd at this class over 1800M on December 28th. He is one for one at this distance and shapes as the main danger. (11) ELDORADO HEUNGBU was 4th in that race behind Speed Cara. He is yet to win in six attempts but should have derived benefit from his first go around two turns and can be there or thereabouts today. (1) LOVE O MINE and the up in class (3) LUCKY FAMOUS are others in the hunt.
Selections
(8) Dream Card (6) Speed Cara (11) Eldorado Heungbu (1) Love O Mine
Next Best
3, 7
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 11
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) RICH TREE looks the one to beat here. After running 2nd at a mile two starts back, he stepped up to two turns for the first time on December 27th and after a slow start from a wide gate, ran on for 5th. He should have benefitted from that experience and from a slightly better gate and with a better start, he can win. That will mean overturning the form on (12) THE WIND, who ran 4th in that race, coming from well off the pace. The wide draw is no problem, Munro stays on, and he can be there or thereabouts again. (10) BLUE POINT is yet to win in twelve attempts but has been getting closer and comes in off a smart class and distance 2nd just two weeks ago. He is another who likes to settle back and run on, and he can be danger late. (3) FAT BOY and (1) HI CHAMP others in the placing frame.
Selections
(7) Rich Tree (12) The Wind (10) Blue Point (3) Fat Boy
Next Best
1, 8
Fast Start
1, 5, 6, 9
Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
There’s an 11-race card at Seoul on Saturday from 10.35 to 18.00. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Twelve unraced three-year-olds, nine of them fillies. The best in trials was (10) BITNARA, who after failing to qualify in May, came back at the start of this month and having settled midfield, ran through the line well for a close 3rd in a decent time If he brings that form to the races, he will take some beating. (9) FASHION STAR took a while to get going in her trial but finished off pleasingly enough clocking a fair time. The 1200M of the race should be better than the 1000M of the trial and she can run well first-up. (12) THUNDER FIRE is another who ran on from an unpromising position and can be considered. (6) GIDAEHARA showed on pace in her trial and while she weakened that’s enough to give her a chance here. (3) HAPPY FRIEND another who hinted at ability.
Selections
(10) Bitnara (9) Fashion Star (12) Thunder Fire (6) Gidaehara
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 6
Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Imported three-year-old maidens with two of them racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on both of those newcomers (8) GLORY YEONGGWANG, who led all the way to win his trial very comfortably in a quick time at the end of November. Ruan Maia has begun the year in great form, and he can continue here. (5) MIGHTY EVER trialed up on Boxing Day, settling midfield and running on well for 2nd in a good time given the conditions. The 1200M can suit first up and he can be a danger. Among the experienced, (10) GWANAKSAN BLACK led on debut over this distance on November 10th, ultimately coming home 5th. He has had eleven weeks off since so comes in fresh and with a bit of luck at the start, he can find a forward position. (9) TIARA SUA and (1) GRAY CANDY others who can improve.
Selections
(8) Glory Yeonggwang (5) Mighty Ever (10) Gwanaksan Black (9) Tiara Sua
Next Best
1, 4
Fast Start
7, 8, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Weak maiden. (8) MALSGO did precisely nothing in two starts in November and right at the beginning of December. He has though been back to trial since then and looked much better, running a close 2nd in a good time. If he brings that form in here, he can win. Debut-maker (7) CHRYSOL NIKE didn’t set the world alight in her trial but stuck to her task well enough to suggest she has potential. Kozzi is aboard, she draws nicely, and she should be available at an each-way price. (3) CHAMP HAMSEONG ran 5th on debut in November, and that’s probably enough for her to have favourite status here. She was poor on her second start but is worth another chance in this company. (10) CUPID WORLD and (11) CAPTAIN RISE others who may improve.
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Another modest maiden although this one is very competitive so should have plenty of interest. (7) SAVANA CHARLIE beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at this distance on December 29th, settling back and running on. It was an uptick in his recent form, and he has as much chance as any here. (9) FLYING LUCKY stepped up to 1700M for the first time in that December 29th race and ran a solid 4th place. She should have derived benefit from a first spin around two turns and under a similar weight and with Jeong Woo-ju, who is riding well lately, staying up, she can get closer. The pair of those have no wins from thirty-one starts between them so if you prefer one with more potential improvement then (4) EUNPA MUSIC could be it. He ran 5th in that December 29th race in what was his first try at 1700M and just his fifth race overall, and he can get better. (2) NAEGILUIYEONGGWANG has a 2nd place to his name over this distance and must be considered. (11) GHOST CHRYSOL another in the frame.
Selections
(7) Savana Charlie (9) Flying Lucky (4) Eunpa Music (2) Naegiluiyeonggwang
Next Best
11, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 8
Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races at Busan from 11.25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Global Hit and Kim Hye-sun will be going around at Meydan on Friday night (Pic: KRA)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the first time. We will side with experience as (7) MEGA PLAY ran well on debut, overcoming a wide draw to eventually race handy and run on for 3rd place over this distance on December 22nd. That experience, and its potentially associated fitness edge, makes him the one to beat. Of the first timers, (12) QUEENS DRAGON went through two trials, improving significantly in terms of time in the second of them (a voluntary trial on December 14th behind Mother Road when clocking 62.8 seconds – beware, it may not appear on all racecards). She has the challenge of the widest gate but if she brings that form to the races, she is a chance. (8) STARTMAN raced handy in his trial, running on well for 2nd in a fair time and he too can put in a bold showing first up. Sole trial winner (10) DOCTOR LOUIS, along with (1) SPEED THIEF are others who hinted at ability in their respective heats.
Selections
(7) Mega Play (12) Queens Dragon (8) Startman (10) Doctor Louis
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 9
Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
A maiden for imported three-year-olds. (3) AMAZING KHAN ran 4th on debut on November 29th, beating a couple of these in the process, before improving to 2nd at start number two on December 27th, racing handy throughout and briefly leading close to the line. Crucially he had no fewer than seven of today’s rivals behind them, and from a good draw, he can be on pace and go one better. (2) EL CAZADOR was 3rd in that December 27th race, a big improvement from his debut. Like Amazing Khan, he runs for the third time so can have a fitness edge on most here and he draws a much better gate than in his first two outings. (1) MEETING ST has been 5th on both appearances to date, while (8) SELL LIKE was 4th in the September 27th race. The only one who didn’t race that day is the solitary debut maker. We will put (9) HIDDEN TIARA in the numbers because she looked well in two trials.
Selections
(3) Amazing Khan (2) El Cazador (1) Meeting St (8) Sell Like
Next Best
9, 7
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 5
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(11) FLYING ICE enters off a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, most recently beating plenty of these over this distance on December 29th when, as is his style, he settled right back and then ran on well. He does risk getting too far back, but he has to be favoured to go one better here. Should he leave himself too much to do, (5) SWORD WING can take advantage. After taking a few goes to figure things out, he has a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two, the latter being behind Flying Ice on December 29th. He too comes from off the pace and with only six starts behind him, may have some improvement. If you think neither will get up, (4) YEOSU GUARDIAN may be the one to go for. He ran 3rd at this distance last time out and from a good draw can be on pace and force the favourites to try to come past. (7) DOCTOR CASTLE, who “lost interest” when favourite last time according to his jockey, and (9) SEOGWI PRINCESS are others in the frame.
Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
One debut maker here, and (2) PLUTO did it very easily in his trial, cruising around on the bridle, leading all the way, and crossing the line plenty to the good. He draws beautifully, and if he brings that form to the races, he can win first up. (5) BEOLGYOUI HIM has mixed his form across four starts so far, with his best being his latest when 2nd at this distance on January 3rd, coming from off the pace. He makes a quick return here and he should be finishing strongly once more. (4) TOP OF THE TREE comes in off an improved 3rd place at start number three over this distance on November 17th. He comes in fresh after ten weeks out and from a good draw, can be on pace and in this a long way. (The form drops off significantly after those but Seo Seung-un climbing on (3) JEONGMUN FELIX will give him plenty of backers. (7) SUN JAE, who has been back to trial since debut, another minor money chance.
Selections
(2) Pluto (5) Beolgyoui Him (4) Top Of The Tree (3) Jeongmun Felix
Next Best
7, 11
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 7
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(10) MORNING DEW got his maiden win two starts back over this distance before running a close 3rd on his first try at this class on December 29th when settling midfield and running on. He draws a touch wider than ideal here, but he should have enough about him to get a forward position and if he does, he may take some beating. (3) SING FOR ME trialed up well and then ran out a winner on debut over this distance on December 27th, when slightly slowly away before being ridden up handy halfway and then running on. He comes up in class but comes down in weight and into a much better gate, and he can measure up in this company. (5) GRAND CHASER had a hard time last time out when wilting under a strong pace over 1400M. She comes back to the distance at which she got her win, and she is worth another chance here. (8) GOLDEN AIR and (12) DAEHOMA are others to consider.
Selections
(10) Morning Dew (3) Sing For Me (5) Grand Chaser (8) Golden Air
Next Best
12, 2
Fast Start
7, 8, 9, 10
Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Global Hit will make his Meydan debut on Friday night and Korea’s sole representative at this year’s Dubai Racing Carnival has been handed an assignment as tough as they come in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge over 1900M.
Global Hit with jockey Kim Hye-sun, trainer Bang Dong-suk, and his grooms (Pic: KRA)
Taking part in the Carnival is a chance to be tested against the best, and if nothing else, GLOBAL HIT certainly has that chance in what is shaping up to be a terrific renewal of a race which serves as a step towards the Dubai World Cup, on what is set to be the best night’s card of flat racing anywhere in the world so far this year.
KABIRKHAN, who won this race a year ago returns to racing for the first time since last year’s World Cup, while FACTEUR CHEVAL, winner of the Dubai Turf last year, makes his dirt debut. IMPERIAL EMPEROR and WALK OF STARS both enter off impressive Meydan wins, and GENEROUS TIPPER makes his first Dubai start since being relocated from the United States. None of the others in a field of twelve are to be dismissed either. To make it an even harder ask, Global Hit has drawn gate twelve of twelve.
So, can Global Hit measure up in this type of company? Korea has been represented at each of the last two carnivals, but this is the first time since Dolkong in 2019 that a horse at the peak of his form has travelled. After Main Stay got Korea’s first Dubai win in a Sprint Handicap in 2017, two years later Dolkong won the Curlin Handicap and lined up in the World Cup itself.
Global Hit in the morning at Meydan (Pic: Sorim Lee)
Had a peak Dolkong and a peak Global Hit ever faced off on the Seoul sand, Global Hit would be the betting favourite among the local race going public. But that may not necessarily transfer to the very different dirt of Meydan.
Perhaps one way of assessing Global Hit is that he got within five-lengths of Wilson Tesoro, a top line JRA dirt horse, in the Korea Cup last year. Since returning to Japan, Wilson Tesoro has beaten Meisho Hario when winning and then finished 2nd to Lemon Pop and Forever Young. He would be among the top line of favourites were he in Meydan. Global Hit isn’t on that level, but he is not a million miles away.
A potential plus for Global Hit is his racing style. Korea-trained horses have frequently found the tempo of races at Meydan very different to that back home where the start of the race is usually fast, before they ease off slightly in mid race in advance of going hard for the line. Yet Global Hit’s way of jumping out fairly and then steadily ramping up the pressure, may well fit. In this scenario the wide draw may not be as much of a problem as it first appears. With Kabirkhan having drawn gate two, there should be plenty of pace on, so under a patient ride, Global Hit should have an opportunity to drop in as the field opens up before the first bend.
Global Hit is a five-year-old entire by Korea-based American sire To Honor And Serve (by Bernardini). He is out of the Yankee Victor mare Tammy’s Victress, a winner of seven races during her career in the United States. Global Hit was bred by the Yeonhak Agricultural Company and was purchased by current owner Kim Joon-hyun for 50 Million Won as a yearling in 2001. He has gone on to accumulate 3.8 Billion Won in prize money.
After winning on his debut, Global Hit suffered an injury that curtailed his two-year-old season, and he didn’t make the opening leg of the Triple Crown in 2023. He returned to win the final two legs, the Korean Derby and the Minister’s Cup, and hasn’t looked back. He finished his three-year-old campaign with 2nd places to Winner’s Man in both the President’s Cup and Grand Prix Stakes, having finished midfield in his first Korea Cup.
2024 would see Global Hit dominate domestically, winning five of his seven starts and going one better in both the President’s Cup and Grand Prix. He also denied Japan a clean sweep of the places in the Korea Cup by running 3rd behind Crown Pride and Wilson Tesoro but beating Light Warrior. His only defeat during the year to a locally trained horse came by a nose at the hands of regular rival Tuhonui Banseok in the Busan Mayor’s Cup in May. In total he has ten wins from seventeen career starts.
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:
Can Seirene return to winning ways? (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(7) NICE WINNER ran 5th on debut in October when slowly away, before improving to 2nd at start number two on December 7th when leading for much of the way around. He will lead again here and will be the warm favourite to go one better. Second favourite will be (1) IMRO. After a fair trial, he ran a solid 4th of eleven over this distance on debut on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. He should have come on for that run and from a great draw, can get closer this time. (5) MUNHAK CHUKJE came from off the pace on his debut to run 4th. He too can have derived benefit from that experience and can improve here. (9) WONDERFUL CATHAY and (2) JOSE others who have hinted at ability.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Moon Se-young will be aboard another short price favourite. (11) GRAND KWAEMA has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from three starts so far, most recently at this distance on December 14th when settling midfield and running on. He has the fastest time among these for the 1300M and won’t need to improve much to win here. (10) YEOMYEONGUI SUNGAN was an encouraging 4th on debut at 1200M on December 7th, settling back and running on. She drew the same wide gate that day and the slight step up in trip can suit. (5) COMMAND BLUE has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and she can continue to make progress here. (9) BREEDO KING STAR and (3) CHEONGRYONGUI CAL among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(11) Grand Kwaema (10) Yeomyeongui Sungan (5) Command Blue (9) Breedo King Star
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
3, 7, 9, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Moon Se-young could really be having a proper day out early on Sunday as he is on another warm favourite here in the shape of (11) DRAGON KILLER. He came from well off the pace to run 2nd on debut over 1200M on December 22nd and while he once more draws wide, the way he finished off suggests that the additional half furling can be in his favour and he can go one better today. (7) RAON NOTHERN DANCE got a long way back on debut but has since run 3rd and 4th, most recently over this distance on December 22nd. He can settle just behind the speed and be a danger here. (6) HEUNGHAENG DOLPUNG has finished midfield in both starts so far but is another who may benefit from a slightly increased trip and third-up, he can be peaking fitness wise. (9) MERIT SUNSHINE and (3) CHRYSOL MAJOR others to consider.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Fillies only in this maiden. (8) B.K DANCING GIRL was an eye-catching trial winner, causing her to be sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on November 29th. She led for most of the way but ultimately got caught and ended up in 3rd place. She’s had seven weeks off since then, she should lead again, and this time she can go all the way. It’s not a strong set of rivals. (7) COME ON GLORY and (5) ROAD TO SPRING came home 5th and 6th when they raced each other on the latter’s debut on December 13th. The former has races once since, struggling over 1400M two weeks ago, but back at this trip both can be in the place hunt. (11) QUEEN TYCHE and (2) WONDER ROAD others who may improve without really inspiring much confidence.
Selections
(8) B.K Dancing Girl (7) Come On Glory (5) Road To Spring (11) Queen Tyche
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 8
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (7) TOHOMARKET is yet to win in eleven attempts but after back-to-back runner-up finishes to get promoted to this level, she has finished no worse than 4th in four class 5 outings. In this company, she can sit just behind the speed and today could be her day. (5) RED DRAGON came from well off the pace to win over 1200M on her debut on December 14th. She comes up in class and marginally in trip, but she is down in the weights, draws well, and Moon climbs on. (10) SINHAN ACE was runner-up on debut but got her maiden win at start number two on December 21st, over 1200M. She too comes up in class and distance but is down in weight and can measure up. (3) TOUCH CHARM and (8) QUEEN ABIGAIL are the other logical placing chances.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(1) TOHAMSAN TAEYANG was a much-improved 2nd over 1300M on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. She comes up to 1400M for the first time today and with a bit more improvement, she can go one better. (2) RIGHT CHAMP has been knocking on the door across her five starts to date with the best being a 2nd place at this distance. She was slow away last time but draws better here to be on pace and is a real chance. (9) BLACK EQUUS got a long way back on debut but ran on pleasingly enough for a midfield finish. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can go closer today. (7) WORLD TAEYANG and (5) HANEULPYEONGJEONG are the other place chances.
Selections
(1) Tohamsan Taeyang (2) Right Champ (9) Black Equus (7) World Taeyang
Next Best
5, 3
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 4
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Horse Racing in Korea 