Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 17)

It’s turned very cold in Korea the past couple of days and temperatures in the capital are forecast to remain below zero for the foreseeable future. Nevertheless, the sun will probably be shining and there are 10 races in Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here and every single one of the twelve is racing for the first time so we must head for the trial videos. Most of these took more than one attempt at qualifying and that applies to the probable favourite (5) BLACK MOTION, who wasn’t ready on his first attempt in July. He has since been gelded and looked much more assured when winning a heat on November 25th sitting handy and then running on, crossing the line in a decent time ten-lengths to the good. If he can bring that form to the races, he can win. Going on times, (4) AGAPANTHUS is the second pick. His heat was first due to the presence of Grand Prix Stakes 4th placed Saryeoni First and Korean Oaks 3rd Chamjoeun Chingu but he stuck with both and can go well here. (8) DONGHAENG FIRST and (1) KARIZMA came through the same trial, and both hinted at ability while (9) VILLARRICA is another who offered some evidence of potential when 2nd on his heat two weeks ago in a fair time.

Selections(5) Black Motion (4) Agapanthus (8) Donghaeng First (1) Karizma
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens although this time only one of twelve is appearing for the first time with the rest all having raced once apiece. The three lowest drawn look set to dispute it. Of them (1) ACHIM DONGJA is the only one who debuted at this distance, starting slowly on November 5th but running on strong for a good 3rd place in a good time. He should have derived benefit for the experience and with a better start, is the one to beat. (2) STRENGTH showed speed when 4th on debut in a quick time over 1000M on November 27th. He finished off well and the additional furlong shouldn’t prove problematic from a good gate. Similarly, (3) NAOL GONI ran on for 4th on debut over 1000M a month ago and looks to be the other legitimate winning chance. Among the rest, (8) SAVANA CHARLIE was also 4th on debut, albeit in a slower time. He did though finish off very well and the step up in trip can benefit. Debut maker (12) THUNDER PRINCE went through two trials, improving in the latter, and may go well first-up at probable big odds.

Selections(1) Achim Dongja (2) Strength (3) Naol Goni (8) Savana Charlie
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

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

More juvenile maidens, all with racing experience. (1) G MOTION is the warm favourite, having finished no worse than 4th in three starts so far, with two of them coming over this distance in good times. He draws very nicely here, and he won’t need to improve much to win this. (5) CHROMITE came home 5th to G Motion’s 4th when they raced each other on November 19th. He has three lengths to find on the favourite but that was his first try at this distance and he may improve for the experience. (8) DALGEUM comes up in trip for the first time after back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1000M. Both times she was doing her best work late on and the additional furlong can suit here under a very light weight. (6) UNICORN KINGDOM is similarly up in class following an improved 2nd over 1000M at start number three and along with (2) MISS WIN STAR is another in the frame.

Selections(1) G Motion (5) Chromite (8) Dalgeum (6) Unicorn Kingdom
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Regular maiden open to all ages. (12) EUREKA has never finished any better than 4th but that is something he has achieved on no fewer than five of his nine starts so far. He draws wide here but given his running style, that may not be much of a problem. His times at this distance have not exactly been electrifying, but that’s true for everything else here too and he has as good a chance as any. (10) BEST BIG BANG has the fastest – though that’s relative – time of those who have attempted the distance before. That was achieved when beating Eureka as the pair ran 3rd and 4th on October 16th. He remains nicely weighted under an apprentice and can go close. (6) DEVIL K has a couple of 3rd place finishes to his name and that’s enough to put him firmly in contention in this company. In the absence of any early speed, he may lead and can be in this a long way. (4) CHOEGO POINT and (9) MADISON MOUNTAIN are others who could be in the mix.

Selections(12) Eureka (10) Best Big Bang (6) Devil K (4) Choego Point
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start2, 6, 10, 11

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

It’s hard to look too far past (10) HIGH GRAND here. After back-to-back 4th places over 1000M, he stepped up to 1200M on November 5th and very nearly made all, ultimately coming home 2nd in a quick time. He has the challenge of the wide gate here so may need a touch of luck at the stuck but if he can get a forward position, he will take some beating. (2) SERYUNG comes in off 4th places in his latest two outings, both at 1200M. He draws nicely here to sit on pace or handy and the extra half furlong can suit. (1) MORNING PRINCE enters having run good times in his latest two at 1200M for 3rd and 5th. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races so far but runs on well and is another for who the additional trip can suit. (6) BEST PLAN and (12) HOUYHNHNM others with minor money claims.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 16)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but one racing for the first time. (3) GEUMA DEFT blitzed a trial leading for most of it before crossing the line 2nd behind experienced winner Fashion Blade and stopping the clock in a very fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he’ll be a winner on debut here. (12) RUNNING POWER is the only one with experience. It’s good experience too as he was a very narrow 2nd over this distance on November 18th having raced handy throughout. The time was fast and while he has the challenge of a wide draw here, he can build on that. (7) FAST GUN trialled up alongside some experienced horses and while he couldn’t quit e match their times, he showed ability and can go well first up. (2) PIMI and (5) HAPPY BRIANNA are others who can considered for bold showings on debut.

Selections(3) Geuma Deft (12) Running Power (7) Fast Gun (2) Pimi
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 12

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

More juvenile maidens although this time with just one racing for the first time. We’re happy to take a chance on him though. (2) SEUNGNIUIYEONGUNG won his trial with a front-running effort in a fair time. He draws nicely here to get on pace again, he’s from the top stable at the track, and he has every chance. (10) GOODY has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating with   2nd place finish on his latest on November 13th, when settling midfield before quickly racing up to join the leaders and then ran on. He has the fastest time by some margin among those who have tackled the distance before, and he is a big chance here. (11) META QUEEN ran midfield behind Goody on debut but returned on November 11th to run a solid 2nd over 1000M. With some more natural improvement today, she can go close again. (5) DOCTOR PANGPANG and (9) GLOBAL SKY among others in the frame.

Selections(2) Suengniuiyeongung (10) Goody (11) Meta Queen (5) Doctor Pangpang
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A very ordinary maiden here. (5) ARTHUR KING IJI has hinted at ability across three outings so far with his most recent, a 5th place when on pace over 1200M on November 27th, his best. He draws well here, the step up to seven furlongs can suit, and he has as good a chance as any. Also stepping up in trip is (12) DOCTOR SHARK. She comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at 1000M and 1200M and while she is done no favours by the draw, she has been finishing off her races well and the extended trip could be beneficial. (8) FLEX SHINHWA also has a couple of 3rd place finishes to his name and can be a placing chance again, while (11) CUQUENAN and (4) FIGHT FAMILY, who came home 4th and 6th respectively when racing one another on November 18th, are among others to consider.

Selections(5) Arthur King Iji (12) Doctor Shark (8) Flex Shinhwa (11) Cuquenan
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 11, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Having won an October trial, (2) SEUNGNIMAGIC KING was sent off as favourite on his debut on November 18th and he duly obliged, sitting on pace, and gradually wearing his rivals down for a narrow score in a fast time. He comes up in both class and distance here but draws nicely, is weighted well, and he can maintain his 100% record. (8) GRAPHENE RAP WORLD also comes up in class and trip. She ran 2nd on debut in October before getting her maiden win at start number two over 1000M on November 11th when making all. She carries a light weight again and should be measuring up in this company. (10) WONDERFUL VOW was a winner on debut before struggling in Listed company last time out. She returns to shallower waters here and can be given another chance. (6) MOTHER MOUNTAIN and (9) PUNGUN JOHWA are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(2) Seungnimagic King (8) Graphene Rap World (10) Wonderful Vow (6) Mother Mountain
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start2, 8, 10, 11

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

(10) HANSEN COD GIRL was an also ran in the Listed Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Trophy last month but her form prior to that was good with a win and two 3rd place finishes. The most recent of those 3rd places was over this class and distance on October 30th when she overcame an even wider gate to get on pace and she looks the one to beat here. (3) JEONGDEUN-RO enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes in all-filly races at this class and distance. She draws nicely here and can be in the placing hunt again. (6) DOCTOR KONGSUNI is yet to win in ten attempts but has no fewer than seven top-five finishes and from a fair draw can be on pace and in this a long way.  (7) HALLA BAEKDU and (4) GLOBAL CHOEGO are among others with at least placing claims.

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Winner’s Man Bests Raon The Fighter in Grand Prix Battle for the Ages

Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter turned the 40th running of the Grand Prix Stakes (2300M) into a match race and just as in the Korea Cup, it was Winner’s Man who ultimately prevailed as the pair duelled the final two-furlongs at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter drive for the line in the Grand Prix (Pic: KRA)

With Raon The Fighter having blitzed the KRA Cup Classic while Winner’s Man laboured to 3rd in the President’s Cup on their respective post-Korea Cup outings, punters were predicting a form reverse and sent Raon The Fighter off as the odds-on favourite.

From the plum draw of barrier two Moon Se-young took Raon The Fighter straight to the front and immediately dictated the pace the race would be run at. By the time they left the back straight and began the long turn for home, only Winner’s Man, who as he had done in the Korea Cup, improved up the field in the back straight under jockey Seo Seung-un, along with President’s Cup winner Raon First, remained with him.

Remote of the finish with Tuhonui Banseok looming (Pic: KRA)

Raon First was promptly seen off and Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter would duel throughout the long Seoul Racecourse home straight. Raon The Fighter held firm, but Winner’s Man loomed up alongside with a furlong to run. Still Raon The Fighter didn’t buckle and matched him stride for stride for half the remaining distance. But Winner’s Man was relentless. At the one hundred metre point, he finally struck the front and this time Raon The Fighter had no more.

It had been a battle of wills and a battle of the two best horses in the country. Winner’s Man now carries off the accolade of Horse of the Year having vanquished Raon The Fighter at 1800M in the Korea Cup and 2300M in the Grand Prix, but Raon The Fighter lost nothing in either of those defeats. And given he remains arguably both the best sprinter and middle-distance horse in Korea, yet has runner-up finishes in both those longer distance Group 1 races, the debate as to which is better won’t go away.

The rest of the field might as well have been running in a different race but there was a stand-out performance by Tunhonui Banseok. The Bart Rice trainee had only raced eleven times previously, but under Park Jae-i, he navigated his way through a tiring field in the closing stages to get within a length and a quarter of Raon The Fighter on the line. Nine-lengths further back, the three-year-old Saryeoni First led the rest home in 4th.

How quickly things change. A year ago, after Haengbok Wangja’s emphatic win in the race, aged just four, he seemed set to dominate. Yet no horse who took part in last year’s race was among the first nine home this year, Simjangui Godong, 5th last year, was best placed in 10th. Haengbok Wangja himself only beat two home, while there was disappointment too for fellow Dubai Carnival hopeful King Of The Match. He was one of those two the 2021 champion finished ahead of.

(Pic: KRA)

Winner’s Man is by Musket Man who is owned, perhaps a touch ironically, by Raon The Fighter’s owner Son Chun-soo and is the centrepiece of the emerging Raon breeding and racing empire. Winner’s Man himself is owned by Lee Gyeong-hui. He is out of Winner’s Marine (by Volponi) who was bred and raced in Korea. Musket Man is now assured of finishing the year as Leading General Sire.

For trainer Choi Ki-hong it was his first Grand Prix and his fifth Group race win – all of them with Winner’s Man. Jockey Seo Seung-un rode his first Grand Prix winner. Having already ridden a President’s Cup and Korea Cup winner, he is just missing the Korea Sprint and Korean Derby from the Group 1 set.

Seo Seung-un with owner Lee Gyeong-hui and Winner’s Man (Pic: KRA)

With the running of the Grand Prix, the 2022 Stakes race program has finished, although there are still two more weeks remaining of the season, which concludes on Christmas Day. In Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter, racing heads into 2023 with two genuine stars on its hands.

Grand Prix Stakes Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (December 11)

It’s Grand Prix Stakes Sunday with the traditional season finale bringing together sixteen of the country’s best horses at Seoul for the 2300M Group 1 test. See here for a full runner-by-runner guide. The Grand Prix is race 8 on the 11-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There is also a 6-race card at Busan from 12:15 to 16:45. The Grand Prix is at 16:15. Here are all the previews:

Haengbok Wangja won last year’s Grand Prix. He returns to try to defend his title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener with three of the small field of eight racing for the first time.  (8) RAON CITY GIRL has race twice and was an improved 3rd in the second of them over this distance on November 6th when handy throughout and finishing in a fast time. The small field means she should be able to get on pace again and she is the one to beat. The biggest danger looks to be one of the first timers. (1) EINSPANNER was an on-pace 2nd in her trial in a fair time and from a great draw can put in a bold showing first up. (2) BLUE ARCH has raced twice at this distance and just like Raon City Girl, she improved in the second of them, settling handy and running on for 4th. With some more improvement she can be in the mix here. (3) GEOMIBULU is a debut-maker who must be taken seriously having won her trial in November when settling midfield and running on. (7) GROW can improve on her midfield finish on debut.

Selections(8) Raon City Girl (1) Einspanner (2) Blue Arch (3) Geomibulu
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile filly maidens this time with four of the eight making their racing debuts. (7) ICE CREAM will be the hot favourite. She led for much of her debut at this distance on October 16th, ultimately finishing back in 4th but with close margins and a quick time. She should have derived benefit from the experience and if she runs to that level again, she should win. (1) NANGJU YEOGEOL has raced twice already, finishing 5th both times and stopping the clock in exactly the same time. A similar run will put her into the places here. Among the first-time starters, (2) BULGOM MADRE looks to be the pick. She came from off the pace to win her trial in a fair time and if she brings that form to the races, she can go close in this company. (4) GREEN SPECTER led for most of her trial, crossing the line 2nd. She draws well to be on pace and can be in this a long way on debut. (3) GOOD SIMON perhaps needs trying at further but can aim for minor money.

Selections(7) Ice Cream (1) Nangju Yeogeol (2) Bulgom Madre (4) Green Specter
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens again, this time open to colts as well as fillies. Four of the eight race for the first time. (8) GEOSEN CHAMP is the favourite. He ran an improved 4th at start number two over this distance on November 5th, beginning slowly and then settling right back before finishing strongly, well beaten by winner Farciarz but posting a more than respectable time. With some natural improvement, he may take some beating. (6) RICH GATE ran pleasingly enough for a midfield finish in a good time on debut on October 30th. He can have benefited for the run and can be in the mix here. (3) HALLSTATT and (4) SEUNGRIUI YEONGHON both put in fair efforts on their respective debuts and can build on them here with the latter likely to be on the early pace. The first-time staters didn’t exactly leap out of the trial highlights reels. (7) CHRYSOL SMILE is the first foal by 2016 Korea Cup winner Chrysolite to make the track.

Selections(8) Geosen Champ (6) Rich Gate (3) Hallstatt (4) Seungriui Yeonghon
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 6

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens get things underway on the south coast with two of the ten racing for the first time. (3) HANEUL SEUNGNI races for the third time, having run 3rd and 2nd in two previous outings, both at 1000M and both in good times. He draws nicely to lead here and can go all the way. (6) STAR FURY went through two October trials, improving significantly in the second of them (which as it was a voluntary trial, may not appear in all race cards). In that trial he crossed the line within two-lengths of Touch Star Man and Top Mate, experienced winners (the former a Classic winner) and he can be given a chance here. (1) STORMY DAY beat a couple of these on his way to a very creditable 4th place over this distance on debut on November 13th. He doesn’t have the benefit of an apprentice claim today, but that’s balanced somewhat by a better draw, and he can go close. (7) DALLILLAEYO was 5th in that race on November 13th when settling right back and running on. That was an improvement from his debut, and he can continue to make progress here. (4) REMEMBER ME another who can improve.

Selections(3) Haneul Seungni (6) Star Fury (1) Stormy Day (7) Dallillaeyo
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

Juvenile filly maidens. (1) HANGANG JILJU looks ready to win. She improved at start number three when an on the pace 4th over 1000M and coming up in trip for the first time and from a good draw, may take some beating. (7) BAEDARI GONGJU has made steady progress across three outings so far, with her 4th place on what was her first try at this distance on November 13th, her best so far. She has tended to get a bit far back in her races but can run on and challenge here. (8) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL similarly demonstrated improvement at start number two. She has drawn wide every time so far, but in today’s smaller field, it may not be much of a hindrance. (4) CATS WOMAN and (6) RED TAEPUNG are others with claims on the minors

Selections(1) Hangang Jilju (7) Baedari Gongju (8) Gangcheol Yeogeol (4) Cats Woman
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

Another maiden where it is hard to look past the favourite. (4) PAN STAR has steadily improved across three starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on November 18th when she came close to making all. The additional half furlong shouldn’t be an issue and she can go one better today. (6) HEARTBREAKER also improved at start number two on November 11th when sitting midfield and getting back well for 3rd over 1200M. He stretches out a little further in trip today and with some natural improvement, he can go close. (5) ADELE HORANGI has four top-five finishes from his five starts to date. His best was a second place in October over this distance when handy to the speed and he can be a danger here. (8) JEONGMUN CHITA and (7) BOOMY STAR the others in the hunt.

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GRAND PRIX STAKES 2022 FORM COMMENTS

It’s the one they all want to win.  The Korea Cup may offer more prize money, but the Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) is into its fortieth year as the traditional finale to the Korean racing season and no owner, trainer or jockey can say their career is complete without a win on their CV.

Raon The Fighter and Moon Se Young will be bidding to win the Grand Prix on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

This year a full field of sixteen are set to go to post at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, nine from the host track and seven from Busan, to decide the title of champion Korean racehorse of 2022. The defending champion, Haengbok Wangja is among them, but all eyes will be the rematch between Winner’s Man and Raon The Fighter, winner and runner-up in the international Korea Cup.

Both have raced once since that day in September, and it is Raon The Fighter who enters in the better form. He was a spectacular winner of the KRA Cup Classic (2000M KOR-G2) and from a plum draw in gate two, he is set to start the favourite. Not that Winner’s Man will mind his wide draw. Last Year’s Korean Derby winner could only manage 3rd in the President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) in November but that was his first defeat of the year, and he is sure to put in a big effort again.

The President’s Cup winner Raon First bids to become the first filly or mare to win the race since Gamdonguibada in 2012, while the consistent King Of The Match, 2nd to Raon The Fighter in the Cup Classic is another in the top line of contenders. Here is a full run-down of the field:

1. GEUMA MYSTIC – Yet to win at class 1 level but was 3rd in the YTN Cup in May and 5th in KRA Cup Classic in October, both over 2000M. At the latter he sat back and ran on and while he doesn’t shape as a winning chance here, he can give a good account of himself.

2. RAON THE FIGHTER – The most exciting galloper in Korea right now, he was runner-up in the Korea Cup and subsequently won the KRA Cup Classic (2000M KOR-G2) when he used his natural speed to easily cross to the lead from a wide draw and then exploded into the straight before being eased in the closing stages. That was his first try at 2000M and there’s no reason 2300M should be a problem. Will look to lead from a great draw and is a winning chance. Jockey Moon Se-young is bidding for his second win in the race, fifteen years after his first, on Bally Brae in 2007.

3. SARYEONI FIRST – A progressive three-year-old, the only one in the race, he ran 4th in the Minister’s Cup over 2000M in June. He comes in having won his latest three up to class 3 level and 1800M, but he has been campaigned with this race in mind. The distance seems likely to suit and he gets the three-year-old weight allowance.

4. KING OF THE MATCH – A consistent performer, if non-winner, in elite races this year with standouts being 4th in the Korea Cup and 2nd in the KRA Cup Classic, this race has always clearly been the target. In the Classic, he raced further forward than usual, settling handy, and he benefited. At the furlong pole, while not making ground on Raon The Fighter, he was running away from the rest. Ignore his 4th at 1400M last month. Distance should suit and settling handy again, he has a chance. You Hyun-myung, who won the Grand Prix on Mister Park in 2010 is in the saddle

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 10)

It’s Grand Prix Stakes Eve! Before the big race at Seoul on Sunday, the capital track hosts a Saturday meeting with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Haengbok Wangja won last year’s Grand Prix. He returns to try to defend his title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the eight racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on one of the debut makers in the shape of (6) J MOTION. He made all to win his trial by a big margin and in a quick time in mid-November. If he can bring that form to the races, he can win first-up. The main danger is one of the ones with prior experience. (8) CLOUD NINE has raced twice, not doing much on debut but then improving to 3rd when stepped up to this trip on October 23rd. He sat right back early before running on and so long as he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he can be competitive here. (2) SINUI HAMSEONG has been through a load of trials. The most recent (which was voluntary so may not appear on all race cards) on November 11th saw his overcome a wide draw to sit off pace and hen run on very nicely to cross the line 1st in a good time. The distance should suit for his debut here. (4) CLUB D is another trial winner and along with (7) NONSTOP THUNDER is also with claims to go well.

Selections(6) J Motion (8) Cloud Nine (2) Sinui Hamseong (4) Club D
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maidens and it’s hard to look far past (11) GEUMBITMA. He has three top-four finishes from his four prior starts, alongside a solid 6th place in the listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy. He comes in off a solid 3rd place last time out on November 5th when sitting handy throughout and while he has the challenge of the wide gate, he should have too much. (5) RAON AMERICAN ran 5th in that November 5th race, settling midfield and finishing off well. He also has a 2nd place to his name at the distance and getting a much better draw than the favourite, can be a danger under You Hyun-myung, who is in town to ride in Sunday’s Grand Prix Stakes. (4) HUMMING BIRD enters off a last start runner-up finish over the distance and while she was well beaten by a good winner, she comes into a much better gate today and can go close again. (3) SUPREME STAR and (1) RAON THE CHARLIE among others with credible placing chances.

Selections(11) Geumbitma (5) Raon American (4) Humming Bird (3) Supreme Star
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies (and one mare) here and it looks to be between two last start winners. (11) WONDERFUL WEEK was a super winner at start number two over 1000M on October 30th, settling handy and running on to stop the clock in a fast time. Neither he extended trip, or the class rise should be a problem and while the draw isn’t ideal, she looks to have plenty of potential. (6) MAPARAM was a fine winner over 1300M at this class on November 5th, making all in a quick time. The engagement of an apprentice jockey keeps the weight down and from a good gate, she should be in this a long way again. (8) CONCORD QUEEN has finished in 6th and 7th in her latest two, but the margins haven’t been big, and she can be a factor here. (4) GEUMA ALLURE and (9) JAKDUKONG are among a lengthy list of other placing contenders.

Selections(11) Wonderful Week (6) Maparam (8) Concord Queen (4) Geuma Allure
Next Best9, 12
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 11

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

A very competitive affair in prospect here. We’ll side with (2) EUNPA CHAMPION, an all the way winner on debut in a fast time over 1000M on November 6th having previously won a trial. He is up in class and up a furlong and a half in distance, but he can be equal to both. (5) NAOL CHEONJI was a winner on debut over 1000M in October and then followed up with a 3rd place over 1300M on her first try at this class on November 5th. She should have benefited from that latter experience, she should be on pace here, and she has every chance. (3) YONGBI SEOUL is another who comes up in class having won on debut, in his case on October 29th when settling handy to the lead and running on over 1000M. He too can measure up in this company. It took (9) SECRET KING a few more goes to get his maiden win but he did it in fine style over 1200M on November 19th and can be competitive. (8) GEOMEUN JILJU another in the hunt.

Selections(2) Eunpa Champion (5) Naol Cheonji (3) Yongbi Seoul (9) Secret King
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

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

(5) K N POST remains a maiden but it’s about time that changed. She has been consistent across her eight starts to date with her only disappointing recent effort coming when drawn very wide at this trip. She comes in off a strong runner-up finish over 1400M on October 23rd when she settled back and ran on, and today can be her day. (2) WONDERFUL HWASEONG is another maiden. He also comes in off a spin around 1400M when 5th and while he comes up 2.5kg on that effort, he draws a nice gate and can be competitive here. (9) JILJUE BADA beat a coupe of these on his way to 4th place at class and distance on November 5th. He comes in under the same weight and given his running style, the wide gate shouldn’t be a problem. (7) GRAND STAR and (3) DOUBLE TAKE among others in the minor money hunt.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 9)

It’s Grand Prix Stakes weekend! The big ace is in Seoul on Sunday but the weekend’s action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9-races from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Can Busan’s Korea Cup hero Winner’s Man win the Grand Prix Stakes at Seoul on Sunday? (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener and there are two standouts. (6) RUN FIRST settled back and ran on for 3rd on debut over this distance on November 4th. The time wasn’t hugely fast, but he should have come on for the experience and can win here. (1) GOHEUNG CLASS was quicker than Run First when 6th on debut over the same trip on November 11th. She was well back behind a good winner, but she too should have derived benefit from the run and from a better draw can be on pace with every chance. (7) BORA CHAMP debuted in the same race, coming home in 7th place having drawn the widest gate. From a kinder barrier and with a run in her, she can go closer this time. There are four debut makers and (3) MORNING FLOW and (5) SUCCESS YEONGGWANG look to have the most potential for an immediate impact.

Selections(6) Run First (1) Goheung Class (7) Bora Champ (3) Morning Flow
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens, this time with seven of the nine racing for the first time. Among them is probable warm favourite (5) ALL OR NOTHING. He sat handy during his trial running on for 3rd place in a decent time. He couldn’t pick a kinder race to debut in and he won’t need to improve much from the trial to win first up here. (8) SUNDAY MONEY is one of the two with prior experience. That was all the way back in July when a well-beaten 8th in a slow time. He had a few months off and after coming back into training, trialled promisingly enough three weeks ago. He can be a different prospect this time around. (4) DAHAMKKEDALLIJA showed on pace in his trial before falling back a little late on. In this company he can be competitive. (9) SKY MOUNTAIN wasn’t quick in her heat but was on pace and beat a couple of these home which is enough to put her in the numbers. (2) BLACK VOLT, the other experienced one, could improve.

Selections(5) All Or Nothing (8) Sunday Money (4) Dahamkkedallija (9) Sky Mountain
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

Maiden fillies. (4) GOLDEN RACER has mixed her form across four outings so far but her two 4th places have been useful, and she has set a time over this distance more than half a second faster than anything else in this field has managed.  An apprentice keeps her carried weight very light and she shapes as the one to beat. (3) TWOTWO FLYING had a trying time on her first try at this distance on November 18th. Her previous form was promising though and from a better draw and an apprentice bringing her down 3kg in the weights, she is worth another chance here. There is one debut-maker. (9) WONDERFUL IMPACT ran on pleasingly enough in her trial in a fair time. There is nothing especially intimidating in this field and a bold first-up showing is possible. (5) GOLDEN CAMP and (6) GOLD CROWN are others who may not necessarily get the gold but can compete for the minors.

Selections(4) Golden Racer (3) Twotwo Flying (9) Wonderful Impact (5) Golden Camp
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

More maiden fillies (and one mare) here. There is one debut maker, and she is probably going to be the favourite. (6) GOLD CHEONSA is from the Kim Young-kwan stable, and she looked extremely competent when stalking the lead in her trial, before going past and crossing the line 1st in a fast time. If she brings that form to the races, she will be very hard to beat. (8) STORM AGAIN has five top-five finishes from seven starts, including a good 3rd over this distance two starts back in a good time. She likes to settle handy or midfield and can run and looks the most logical challenger to the favourite here. (9) MY LULLABY debuted over 1300M and used up plenty of energy from a wide gate to get a forward position before tiring. She should have come on for that run and while drawn wide again can improve. (3) QUEEN ROMANCE and (2) B.K. ROAN others in the frame.

Selections(6) Gold Cheonsa (8) Storm Again (9) My Lullaby (3) Queen Romance
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 9

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

(3) DOCTOR PERO has been working up to a win across three races so far and it should come here. At his most recent, he ran on for a good 2nd place over 1400M beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He draws well, the step up to the mile should suit, and he is the one to beat. (4) SKY ARCH comes in off her best finish to date when 4th over 1200M when slow away and settling right back before running on. A bit of distance to play with this time can be in her favour and she can continue to improve. (6) HAMAN BAEKISAN has found some consistency and enters off back-to-back 4th place finishes, most recently behind Doctor Pero. He should be there or thereabouts again. (7) LET IT GO and (2) WONDERFUL ROMANCE among others with the potential for better.

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Speed Young Downs Fantastic Kingdom For Juvenile Crown

Fantastic Kingdom came up short in his bid for a clean-sweep of top juvenile races, as Speed Young romped by for a comprehensive victory in the Breeders’ Cup (1400M KOR-G2) at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Speed Yong wins the Breeders’ Cup – no, not that Breeders’ Cup (Pic: KRA)

Having prevailed in the Busan Rookie Stakes, the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes and the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy, Fantastic Kingdom was sent off a slight favourite over the filly Jeulgeounyeojeong who had pushed him all the way in the Gimhae, over the shorter distance of 1200M a month ago.

The filly was scarcely a factor though as Fantastic Kingdom sat on an early pace that was set by Sun Dragon and Lucky Sun. Both “Suns” would fall away quickly as Fantastic Kingdom took up the running three furlongs from home. He looked set to go on, only for Speed Young, who had drawn the widest but one gate and then sat back in the field, to loom up.

With just over a furlong to run, Speed Young sped by and ran on to win by a comfortable five-lengths with Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy 3rd placegetter Nanometa also emerging from the rear to claim 2nd place ahead of a tiring Fantastic Kingdom in 3rd.

The winner, who was racing for just the third time, was sent off slightly in excess of 10/1, fourth overall in the market. The relatively short odds reflected that in addition to his Areumdaun Jilju Stakes 2nd, he was just one of four who had previously won over the 1400M, coming from off the pace and beating a filly in Smarty Dolpung who herself went on to win in fine style on Friday.

Speed Young is from the final crop by Menifee and is out of Tapestry (by Fusaichi Pegasus). He was bred by Nokwon Farm and was purchased for 100 Million Korean Won by owners D R M City at the November 2021 KTBA Yearling Sale – a sale at which D R M signed for five of the top seven sale-toppers. He is trained at Busan by Bang Dong-suk, who sent out Hit Yegam to win two legs of the Triple Crown last year. You Hyun-myung, who rode Hit Yegam to both those wins, also partnered Speed Young.

Given that it was the only Group race on the schedule, the victory was enough to see Speed Young win the Juvenile Series and for Nanometa to leapfrog Fantastic Kingdom to claim 2nd. Only time will tell but the early indications are that this year’s two-year-old crop has been a good one and we could be set for a fascinating Triple Crown series in 2023, which will kick off in April with the KRA Cup Mile.

Next week the Stakes season draws to a close with the traditional season finale of the Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) at Seoul on Sunday afternoon. Korea Cup winner Winner’s Man is scheduled to run as is that day’s runner-up and subsequent KRA Cup Classic winner Raon The Fighter. President’s Cup heroine Raon First is also expected to be in the starting gate as is defending champion Haengbok Wangja as well as Simjangui Godong and Dubai Carnival hopeful King Of The Match with seventeen remaining in at this stage.

Breeders’ Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (December 4)

The title of Champion Juvenile will be decided on Sunday as a full field of sixteen two-year-olds go to post for the Breeders Cup (1200M KOR-G2) at Busan. The big race is race 6 on a 6-race card at Busan from 12:15 to 16:40. See here for a full preview of the big race. There is also an 11-race meeting at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Morfhis goes in the feature although the grand galloper faces a weighty task in a competitive class 1 finale. Here are the previews:

SBS Sprint winner Morfhis is in action at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open proceedings with five of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (8) SAENAE KHAN, who ran an on-pace 2nd on debut over this distance on October 15th stopping the clock in a fast time. He should have come on for that run and can go one better here. Of the debut-makers, (1) CANDY GLOW looks to be the pick. She ran 3rd in her trial in a fair time all the way back in August. She draws very well here and Moon Se-young – who is in a bit of rut by his standards – being aboard is sure to guarantee her plenty of attention. (4) GEUMSEONG SIDAE has finished 4th in both his starts so far, both at 1000M and both in good times. A repeat will see him in the finish again today. (7) FINAL CHUKJE and (11) RAON AIR FORCE are other potential improvers.

Selections(8) Saenae Khan (1) Candy Glow (4) Geumseong Sidae (7) Final Chukje
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens, this time with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. (3) NAEGILUI QUEEN ran 4th on debut over this distance in a fast time on October 30th, racing on pace throughout. She draws very nicely to lead again and can go all the way. (9) TIZ INDY was 2nd on debut on October 23rd in the same time as Naegilui Queen achieved. She has a slightly harder ask here from the wide draw, but she looks set to be the main danger. Of the debutants, (5) DREAM PLAY looks the pick. He was on pace in his trial, crossing the line a very close 2nd in a fair time. If he brings that form to the races, he can be competitive. (1) GOLD MIGHTY draws a much better gate than he did when 6th on debut and improvement can be expected. (8) SEONGEUN CROWN another who could make progress.

Selections(3) Naegilui Queen (9) Tiz Indy (5) Dream Play (1) Gold Mighty
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Another set of juvenile maidens but with only one first-timer starter. (7) HAYAN WANGJA was a well beaten runner-up behind Farciarz at start number two on November 5th when breaking well before being shuffled back and then running on strongly. The same apprentice jockey keeps his weight nice and low here and he can go one better, facing as he does nothing like that day’s winner this time. (1) NAOL TANK was a solid 4th on debut at 1000M on November 6th, settling back and finishing off well at odds in excess of 130/1. He comes into a better gate today and can be a danger. The solitary debut-maker has Moon up so will have backers. (4) DANGCHAN DAEBO trialled up fairly in November having been very slowly away but finishing off well and the 1200M may suit first-up. (11) MAGUMA was an improved 5th at start number two and along with (10) JARITHAN JAYU, is one who could potentially improve.

Selections(7) Hayan Wangja (1) Naol Tank (4) Dangchan Daebo (11) Maguma
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Three standouts here. (1) NICHOLAS G. ran a good 2nd on debut before being sent off as favourite for his second start over this distance on October 28th. He was on pace that day, ultimately coming home in 3rd place and third-up today and from a good gate, he can be ready to win. (6) YEONGGWANGUI ACE won a trial before beating a couple of these on his way to 2nd place in debut in a fast time over 1000M on October 28th with the highly thought-of Seobu Bigstep the winner. He should have derived benefit from that run and with some natural improvement, can be a danger here. (8) RAON THE HARLEY debuted at this distance on November 5th, stalking the leader and running on for 2nd in a good time. He too should have come on for the run and can be a factor. (10) SKY PUNCH and debut-maker (5) NAMYANG BOLT are others to keep safe.

Selections(1) Nicholas G. (6) Yeonggwangui Ace (8) Raon The Harley (10) Sky Punch
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 9

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

It’s hard to look too far past (1) ARGO TAP. He has been consistent across four starts so far, with his best being a 3rd place over 1000M at start number two back in July. He has had two months off since his latest on-pace showing over this distance, he draws well today and Moon Se-young rides. (9) TANGJA has the fastest time for the distance among these. Despite the wide draw, he can get on pace and should be in this a long way. (2) GOLDEN LUCKY has shown improvement across three starts so far and comes in off a 3rd place finish over this distance on November 5th when settling midfield. She is nicely drawn here and shapes as a chance. (7) TWO ACE scored his best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on November 6th. He comes up a full 4kg in the weights without an apprentice claim, but a repeat isn’t impossible. (5) GRACE LEE another in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Argo Tap (9) Tangja (2) Golden Lucky (7) Two Ace
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s not often we do this, but we’ll take a chance on the solitary debut-maker here. (6) WONDERFUL CHARMER is out of a good race mare and trialled well at the end of October crossing the line an unhurried 2nd. This is not the toughest of races to debut in and a winning start is possible. (11) SPEED MAST has a best of 2nd from thirteen outings, recorded three starts back over 1300M. The draw does him no favours here as he goes best when on pace, but he shouldn’t be too far away. (2) NALA has also managed a runner-up finish, in her case two outings ago over 1000M. She draws nicely here, doesn’t carry much weight, and has claims. (3) AGAIN HELEN and (9) PLAY THE INDY other possible in a race without much depth.

Selections(6) Wonderful Charmer (11) Speed Mast (2) Nala (3) Again Helen
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 9, 8, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (8) SHINE ON ME ran out a good winner on debut over 1000M on October 16th when handy to the speed throughout. She comes up in class and in distance here, but neither should be insurmountable, and she can maintain her 100% record. (1) INNER PEACE comes in having won at class and distance on October 30th when on pace. She comes up a full 4.5kg in the weights but that’s balanced somewhat by an excellent draw. She has four to-three finishes from six starts and should be there or thereabouts again. (7) DUSON CLASSIC worked hard to get to a forward position from a wide gate before weakening in the closing stages over 1300M on November 6th. The slight drop in trip and the better draw should be more in her favour here. (3) MYEONGJIN CANDY and (11) TROT QUEEN others with minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Shine On Me (1) Inner Peace (7) Duson Classic (3) Myeongjin Candy
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) I LOVE HANSEN was a good winner over 1200M at class 6 level in September before running on pace but weakening for 5th place on his first try at class and distance on October 7th. He has since been back to trial, which he won making all in a fast time, and he can be given another chance to come out on top today. That will mean overturning the form on (11) GREAT GO, who ran 3rd in that October 7th race. She has since run 4th over 1300M and while she draws wide, she carries a very light weight and can be a danger. (5) OMEGA GIRL remains winless after thirty-one attempts but has ten top-four finishes, including a last start 3rd at this class over 1300M. She can settle back and run on here. (6) CHOEGANG DUDEURIM and (10) THUNDER CROWN are among others firmly in the placing hunt.

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Fantastic Kingdom Can Sweep Juvenile Slam on Sunday

Fantastic Kingdom can complete an unprecedented sweep of all the year’s top juvenile races when he bids to add the Breeders’ Cup (1200M KOR-G2) to his three already bagged trophies at Busan on Sunday afternoon. But with an embarrassment of riches among the juvenile ranks this year, any victory is going to be hard-earned among a full field of sixteen, who have already racked up twenty-six race victories between them.

Fantastic Kingdom and Jeulgeounyeojeong will clash again on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

First to deal with those who are not there. Betelgeuse has been sent a different route, tackling 1800M and winning up at class 4 level last weekend as he is targeted to emulate stablemate Winner Star’s successful Derby campaign. Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy winner Saenae Town likewise swerves the race having only returned to training just over a week ago.

Of the sixteen who will line up on Sunday as Busan and Seoul’s best two-year-olds meet for the first time having been in separate races for the lead-up, eight are from the home track and eight have travelled down from Seoul. Very few could be said to be without a chance but the one to beat is FANTASTIC KINGDOM.

After running 3rd on debut, Fantastic Kingdom won second-up and then preceded to win the Busan Rookie Stakes, the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes and the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy, all over 1200M. He steps up to the 1400M for the first time but is well drawn and will be hard to beat again.

Seoul’s Rookie Stakes was won by GIANT PUNCH, who ran on after racing handy to the lead. He hasn’t raced since his 3rd place in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy on October 2nd when he was hampered slightly at the start before settling midfield and running on well. He will need some luck from the relatively wide barrier but looks suited to 1400M.

Filly JEULGEOUNYEOJEONG was a winner at this distance in a fast time in class 4 company at the end of September before running a huge race when a close 2nd to Fantastic Kingdom in the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy. She’s never finished any worse than 2nd and is a big chance here.  

Then there is SUN DRAGON. A winner at class 5 over 1300M, he led almost the entire way around in the Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy, only to be denied by Saenae Town in the shadow of the post. He gets a fantastic draw on the inside here and he shouldn’t be ruled out.

Plenty of others are in the money frame as well. LUCKY SUN is the only one in the race with an unbeaten record as he comes in two for two with the second of those having been over this distance. Another 1400M winner is NAOL SNIPER. Along with SPEED YOUNG, who was 2nd in the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes, he was the wide draw to contend with but can’t be ruled out.

The Breeders’ Cup is the concluding race on a six-race program at Busan on Sunday with a local post time of 16:40. There are also eleven races at Seoul on Sunday.

Selections: (5) Fantastic Kingdom (11) Giant Punch (6) Jeolgeounyeojeong (2) Lucky Sun