Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 21)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open with tickets available on the gate for general admission areas or on the app for reserved seating. Here are the previews:

The crowds were back in force last weekend (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies only kick things off. Four of the eleven race for the very first time and one of them is going to be the favourite and the pick. (8) DREAM K initially trialed up very well last August but didn’t make it to the races. She re-trailed in April, winning her heat in a fast time, having settled back in the early stages and then quickened pleasingly. The distance should suit, Moon Se-young is booked to ride and if she brings that trial form to the races, she should win. (5) MUSTANG CHARM has been consistent across four starts so far with three of them resulting in 5th place finishes, all at this distance and in fair times. With some natural improvement here, she looks a place hope. So too (7) TOP POSITION, who has improved across her three outings to date, most recently a 3rd place at 1300M on March 20th when settling midfield and running. If she continues her recent trajectory, she can be in the finish today. (2) P N S SING and (10) TWOTWO KITTEN are others in at least the minor money frame.

Selections(8) Dream K (5) Mustang Charm (7) Top Position (2) P N S Sing
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

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

A small field of maidens with (6) GORGEOUS SERVE the logical top pick. She has shown steady progress across her three outings to date, culminating in a good 2nd place at 1200M on April 24th when she settled handy, dropped back and then ran on. The slight step up in trip can suit and she won’t need to improve much to be winning this. Of those who have tackled the 1300M before, (7) MIR BEST has the fastest time among them, record when 4th at his latest appearance on April 16th. He also has a runner-up finish at this distance to his name and looks the most credible threat to the favourite here. (4) DIVINE FUTURES ran on pleasingly enough for 4th over this trip on his most recent outing on April 24th and a similar run can put him in the placing frame here. (1) NEVER NEVER STOP and (2) ROSE GOLD others who perhaps could improve.

Selections(6) Gorgeous Serve (7) Mir Best (4) Divine Futures (1) Never Never Stop
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden. (9) ACE PLAN has been knocking on the door for a while now and comes in off a 4th place at this distance last time out. It wasn’t a fast time, but he has hinted at having a bit of speed at shorter and he could be ready to win here. (7) MYEONGJIN CANDY is yet to finish in the top-two but has the fastest time among these at the distance and ran on pleasingly for 3rd last time out at 1200M. An increasingly accomplished looking apprentice jockey brings her weight down a full 4kg from that run and that may be enough to see her home on top. (10) LOST WAR needs to go in the numbers based on his two latest showings, which ended in 2nd and 4th at this distance. He may need a touch of luck at the start from the widest gate but has a chance. (8) SMART BYEOL and (1) GEUMSEONG HWANHUI among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(9) Ace Plan (7) Myeongjin Candy (10) Lost War (8) Smart Byeol
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

A competitive race for the level. (1) BURUI KKOT may be one of only two in the field without a win to her name, but she has four top three finishes from six starts including a 3rd place at tis class. We’ll draw a line through her latest effort when she drew gate eleven and never really found a run and today, she draws a good gate for only the second time – on the other occasion she ran 2nd. She carries a light weight, and it is possible she could lead here. If she does, she can go all the way (8) GEOLJAK WOMAN was one of many who beat Burui Kkot last time out on April 3rd. She was 2nd that day (and is the only other one in the field not to have a win) and also looks ready to win. Both the draw and the weights slightly swing in Burui Kkot’s favour this time, but Geoljak Woman can sit handy and has a strong finish on her. (5) P N S AI comes up in class after a maiden win at this distance at start number three on March 12th. He can measure up in this company. (7) SAMJEONG TAPAS was a class and distance winner on April 24th in a fair time and while carrying an additional 3.5kg here, can be a danger again. (6) WILD SOCKS another in the frame. 

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 20)

The weekend’s action gets underway at Busan on Friday where there are 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. All betting locations are open. Here are the previews:

Burning Party won the TCK Trophy last month and win again on Friday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. It’s hard to look far past (4) SEOBU TEUKGEUP. She’s raced twice so far, finishing 4th and 3rd. both over this distance and registering times far superior than any of the other experienced ones in the race have come close to. She draws very nicely to be on or close to the pace and having won the Derby last Sunday, jockey Perovic should be returning to Busan with a win here. (7) POINT REIGN is the clear second-pick. It took him three trials to qualify but once he did, he ran well for 4th place at this distance on debut on April 10th. With some natural improvement for that run, he can give the favourite a race here. (10) MORNING MUSE has hinted at some ability over four starts so far, with fair times in his latest couple. (3) PURE MAGIC and (8) JANGSEONG DAERO are first-timers who in this company can be competitive first-up.

Selections(4) Seobu Teukgeup (7) Point Reign (10) Morning Muse (3) Pure Magic
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

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

More three-year-old maidens and another hot favourite. (6) MAN OF THE MAN trialed up promisingly a couple of times before running a strong 2nd on debut at this distance on April 17th when handy throughout and running on. He won’t need to improve much at all on that run to win here and can lead or sit handy again and prove far too strong. (1) UNJU STAR showed significant improvement at his latest outing when stepped up to 1300M on March 20th. He sat midfield and ran on well for 3rd that day and while he does come back in trip, he gets a good draw on the inside and can continue to make progress here. (10) WALTZ CHARM improved on her second start and while he does come up in the weights as a result of an apprentice not being engaged this time, he too seems be heading in the right direction. (5) LOUD COLOR looks the best of the two debut-makers at this stage, while (9) COME ON FIRST is another who can improve off a middling debut.

Selections(6) Man Of The Man (1) Unju Star (10) Waltz Charm (5) Loud Color
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

We’ll take a chance on (7) NOBLE SPIRIT here. He returned from almost six months out to run a creditable 4th over 1200M on April 22nd when settling midfield and then running on well in a fair time. He should strip fitter for that run and the additional furlong may well suit. Despite the Perovic factor, he should be available at an each-way price. Probable favourite is (3) MAGIC WHISPER. He comes in having led almost the entire way around over 1300M on April 15th, only to be beaten late on by Wonderful File. From a good draw, he should lead again and will surely be in this a long way. (2) ZET CASH has already raced over this distance a couple of time, finishing 4th on both occasions, including at this latest outing on April 8th. He tends to go right back and then run on but may be ridden handier from a better draw today. He does come up 4kg in the weights due to not having an apprenticed booked, but he should be competitive. (10) SPEED SUNSHINE has been consistent and can aim for another money finish. (9) CHOEGANG DUDEURIM, a last start 2nd at big odds, another in the frame.

Selections(7) Noble Spirit (3) Magic Whisper (2) Zet Cash (10) Speed Sunshine
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(5) HIT THE ROAD has the joint-fastest time of any of these at the distance, and comes back in trip following a 6th place over a mile on April 29th. Two starts back he was 2nd at this distance when handy to the lead throughout. An apprentice jockey takes some weight off here and he looks very nicely in to add a second win at what will be his twenty-second start. (3) O.K. THUNDER was a good winner on debut at 1200M on Boxing Day. He didn’t reappear until April 17th when he stepped up to this class and ran 7th of twelve over 1300M. He should have benefited from that run and be much more competitive here. (4) KING PARTY was a good winner at this distance two starts back before running 5th on his first try at this class on April 29th. He draws well and can go close. (2) JIN MARK got her maiden win at start number fourteen over this distance at class 6 level on April 29th, when going right back and running on. She draws nicely, carries a light weight, and can measure up. (7) LIGHT STORY among others to consider.

Selections(5) Hit The Road (3) O.K. Thunder (4) King Party (2) Jin Mark
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

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

(2) TOP ADELE comes in having made all to win at class and distance back in February. That was a good fourteen weeks ago but coming in fresh shouldn’t be a problem and nor should the additional 3kg on his back. He draws very well again and can lead all the way again. The most credible danger to the favourite is (4) DAEHO NURI. His solitary win came at 1300M two starts back when he came from well off the pace and he ran similarly on his first go at this class on April 17th, again at the 1300M. The step up to the mile could well suit and he can go close here. (6) B J’S TERMS returned to action on April 29th following nine months out. He ran well, finishing in 3rd place on a sloppy track over 1400M. His reward is he has to come up in class but in this company he can measure up and while he may not be a wining chance, he can place again. (1) GREEN PAPAGO and (7) DIA FORCE are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Top Adele (4) Daeho Nuri (6) B J’s Terms (1) Green Papago
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(1) TRIUMPH CAT returned to action after almost six months out on April 10th and he ran well for 2nd at this class and distance, settling back and running on. He comes up slightly in the weights today but draws very well and looks to be the one to beat. (2) HANBIT YEONGGWANG is yet to win in nineteen attempts but ran well for 3rd on her latest start on April 17th when just off the pace throughout and running on well over 1400M. She steps up in trip today and from a good draw, it can suit. (8) RUN FIGHTER was a class and distance winner two starts back on March 4th when on pace throughout and winning emphatically. He could only manage 6th on his reappearance on April 24th but can be given another chance here despite the high weight. (6) K K WON came home in 3rd place in that April 24th race and along with (7) CHEONGMA HWANGHU is another to consider for the minors.

Selections(1) Triumph Cat (2) Hanbit Yeonggwang (8) Run Fighter (6) K K Won
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (4) MY DESTINY will be a warm favourite to win. Her sole win came at this distance and she has eleven top-five finishes from thirteen starts. At her latest outing on April 29th, she beat three of these on her way to 2nd place over 1400M racing handy throughout. She comes up a couple of kilos in the weights, but that is balanced by a better draw and she may take some beating. (5) MORNING THUNDER comes up in class following a good win at this distance on April 15th, when she ran on strongly after a going back at the start. She comes down in the weights, draws nicely and should measure up at this level. (3) K.B. BOSS was a last start winner at this class and distance, settling midfield and then running on. She comes up 2.5kg but should still be competitive on that and can go close. (2) ACHIM BIT and (9) NAMDO QUEEN are others in the hunt.

Selections(4) My Destiny (5) Morning Thunder (3) K.B. Boss (2) Achim Bit
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 10

Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(8) BURNING PARTY comes in having won the TCK Trophy at this distance on April 3rd when she tracked the leader throughout, hitting the front at the top of the straight and then running on comfortably. That was her second win at the distance and while a couple of these have beaten her before, she looks to be the one in-form. (2) ADELE PUPIL was 2nd in that race having been handy throughout. She meets Burning Party 2kg better here and from a great draw will be a danger. (4) GEUMA KAIROS returned to action on April 15th after more than a year out. He ran 5th of nine over 1200M and should be much the better for it. He won at this class and distance before the layoff and don’t rule out a big performance here. (5) HILL MORE, up significantly in weight after a last start class and distance score, and (9) ALIVE CAPTAIN, up rapidly in class following back-to-back wins, are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) Burning Party (2) Adele Pupil (4) Geuma Kairos (5) Hill More
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

Winner Star Lands Djordje Perovic Second Derby Win

Winner Star closed late to overhaul Seungbusa and win the 25th running of the Korean Derby (1800M KOR-G1) at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, and in doing so, gave jockey Djordje Perovic his second win in the biggest of the three-year-old Classics.

Winner Star wins the Derby (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Just as in the KRA Cup Mile, Complete Value was sent off as favourite, ahead of the first jewel’s winner Captain Yankee. As expected, Seungbusa set the pace, and the Sports Seoul Trophy winner was in it for a long way as Complete Value stalked handy and looking as though he was ready to make a move.

It never happened. In the home straight, Seungbusa pressed on, and while Complete Value’s challenge waned, Winner Star ran on down the outside of the field, striking the front in the final furlong, and went on to win by two-lengths.

Captain Yankee’s late charge saw him come home in 3rd while Tiz Barows was an excellent 4th. Another Triple Crown series newcomer Wow Wow was 5th ahead of Complete Value in 6th.

Winner Star sees off Seungbusa (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Winner Star was the only horse in the starting gate to have already won over the distance and after the race, winning jockey Djordje Perovic stressed the importance of that to in-house broadcaster, KRBC.

“His (Winner Star’s) previous experience at nine-furlongs was the key. The Derby was the target and so we prepared really well. We focused on the tactics for the race and where we needed to be in the final stage. It worked out perfectly.”

On a day where there were more racegoers in Seoul Racecourse than at any other time since before the pandemic, Perovic had a message for his fans: “I am so grateful for the support from racing fans here and I am very happy I can repay them by winning this race.”

Perovic went on to acknowledge the bumper Sunday crowd, who had taken advantage of the traditional free entry on Derby Day with the total attendance as big as for a Korea Cup. Perovic previously won the Derby on Save The World in 2020 at a pandemic-enforced deserted Seoul Racecourse. “I actually don’t think I have ever raced in front of so many people as were here today. It was brilliant.”

For Perovic himself, it was yet another milestone. The Serbian jockey nicknamed the “Balkan Wolf” last month overtook Ikuyasu Kurakane to become the most successful foreign jockey in terms of winners in Korean racing history. Winner Star was his 350th race win in the country. He now joins Park Tae-jong, Moon Se-young and Kim Yong-geun as the only riders to have won the Korean Derby more than once.

(Pic: KRA)

As Perovic noted in his interview, Winner Star was the (joint) most experienced runner in the race and the only one to have previously won at the distance, having already raced against older horses on plenty of occasions. That’s why the Derby was only his third win on his eleventh career start. Winner Star is by Concord Point and is out of Jangguneui Huye, who did her racing in Korea and is herself by Korean bred stallion Gaeseon Janggun (by Duality). He was bred by his owner Kang Hoon-pyo and is trained by Baik Kwang-yeol, who previously won the Derby in 2015 with Yeongcheon Ace.

Winner Star’s damsire, Gaeseon Janggun, won the Minister’s Cup in 2008. Winner Star will get a chance to emulate that as the final leg of the Triple Crown is the 2022 Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G2) at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday June 12th.

Derby Day Seoul & Busan: Race-by-Race Preview (May 15)

it’s 2022 Korean Derby Day. Click here for a full preview of the big race which is race 8 on an 11-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There is also a 6-race card at Busan from 12:00 to 16:45. As is customary on Derby weekend, general admission to the racecourses and to OCBs across the country, is free of charge. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(9) TOUCH NINE is the one to beat here. The Fed Biz colt is yet to finish in the top two, but he has four finished between 3rd and 5th including back-to-back 4th places from his latest two, both of them at this distance. He has post fair times and has proven able to run on pace or to close. From the widest gate he will probably look to drop in and use his late speed to be too good. (2) TIZ FIGHTING was 5th behind Touch Nine at was both their latest starts on April 9th. He draws well again and can be competitive. So can (5) BIG ENERGY. Yet to win in twelve, he does have six top-four finishes to his name and was 3rd at his latest outing three weeks ago when going right back and running on. He can run into some money again. (3) KKANGDORI has shown signs recently of figuring things out with a 2nd and a 3rd among her latest four appearances. And under another light weight can run well here too. (6) CHADOL RUN another minor money contender.

Selections(9) Touch Nine (2) Tiz Fighting (5) Big Energy (3) Kkangdori
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 6

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

(2) TOP CLASS will be hot favourite here. He raced twice quite ordinarily last summer and then didn’t reappear until this spring when following a positive March trial, he returned to action on April 17th, running a very good 2nd at this distance when overcoming gate eleven to lead for most of the race. He should have come on for that run, he draws a much better gate, and he is very much the one to beat. (6) M J TIME was significantly improved at start number four when leading almost the entire wat around at this distance on April 23rd, only to get passed late on by a good winner. He will be on or close to the pace again and can maintain that momentum here. (9) WONDERFUL MUSIC didn’t do too much wrong on debut at this distance on April 16th, running around in midfield and improving to 4th. That followed a good trial and he she can put in another bold showing today. There are two first-time starters and both (4) GANA FASHION and (8) WHITE CAT trialed up pleadingly, with the former quicker and more preferred first-up.

Selections(2) Top Class (6) M J Time (9) Wonderful Music (4) Gana Fashion
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Since getting her maiden win last September, (2) SOBERANIA has been sent off as favourite all three times she has appeared in the gates. At the first of those, she ran a slightly disappointing 2nd. At the second she deposited her jockey on to the sand coming out of the barrier and proceeded without him. Most recently, she led but just got pipped into 2nd place at class and distance on April 10th. From a good draw, she goes on top again and surely it will be fourth time lucky. Should something go wrong again – and let’s face it, it might – (6) CUPID VOW could take advantage. He ran 4th behind Soberania on April 10th, running on, and he can be considered to go closer today. So too (8) K N OLD QUEEN. She was disappointing in that same race which was her first at class 5 following a maiden win over this distance in January. She is worth another chance here. (5) DIECO and (12) RAON THE WILD others in the frame.

Selections(2) Soberania (6) Cupid Vow (8) K N Old Queen (5) Dieco
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Small field in the opener on the south-coast but three of the seven look ready to win. We’ll take a chance on (4) ADELE ALLIE’S who has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place at this distance on April 10th when settling midfield and running on. In this field, she should be on pace and has every chance of winning. So too does (6) LINE BREAKER. He comes back in trip following some good performances at 1400M including last time when he was an on-pace 3rd. He is yet to finish any worse than 5th in five starts and will probably be the favourite here. (5) SPECIAL FACT came from off the pace to run a good 3rd in a slowly run race at this distance on April 15th. (1) STAR CATCH and (3) FANTASTIC YEOGEOL could potentially sneak some minor money.  

Selections(4) Adele Allie’s (6) Line Breaker (5) Special Fact (1) Star Catch
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

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

Fillies and mares only here. (9) BOOSTER ROCKET warrants favourite status on the back of her runner-up finish in a similar class and distance event on April 23rd, when she came from off the pace to work home well. She has eight top-five finishes from ten attempts and will be finishing off strongly again. (8) ADAMS APPLE might be worth a speculative additional chance here at probable good odds. She had shown plenty of ability in four starts prior to a lengthy layoff and hinted at it still being there when trialing. She has been ordinary in two starts back but following another six weeks out, she may be fitter this time. (2) BIG BIT is one who returned to form after some lacklustre performances. She comes in following a good 2nd place at this class over 1200M on April 17th and from a good gate and under a light weight, should be in the mix here. (3) SONGAM BEST comes up in class following a good win over 1200M when handy throughout and she can measure up in this company. (1) NANA LAND also comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes and she too can compete.

Selections(9) Booster Rocket (8) Adams Apple (2) Big Bit (3) Songam Best
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

He’s been out for almost a year but (6) POKPUNG JILJU still shapes as the one to beat here. He registered two smart 3rd places over 1400M before his layoff and looked very well when trialing up at the end of April. This is a small field with little to fear, and he couldn’t have asked for a better race to return in. (3) PURPLE MANGO has also had an interrupted career so far. She made one appearance in August of last year and then didn’t race again until April 22nd when she was handy for much of the 1200M before ultimately ending in 7th. She should have benefited from that run and can go closer today. (2) YEONGCHEON POWER has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and can go close today. (7) WONDERFUL REALTY and (8) FANTASTIC MAGIC are others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Pokpung Jilju (3) Purple Mango (2) Yeongcheon Power (7) Wonderful Realty
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8
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KOREAN DERBY 2022 – DETAILED PREVIEW

The 25th Korean Derby will be run over nine-furlongs at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, with Captain Yankee, who won the KRA Cup Mile in Busan a month ago, bidding to add the second jewel on his quest to sweep the Triple Crown.

Captain Yankee won the KRA Cup Mile (Pic: KRA)

In total, eight of the twelve who contested the Cup Mile return for the Derby. They include last year’s Champion Juvenile Complete Value, who was sent off as favourite in the Mile and looked set to win, only to be run down by Captain Yankee’s late burst. He is set to be favourite once more.

Captain Yankee, a 40/1 winner of the Cup Mile, heads up the challenge from Busan. Since 2008, horse trained at the south-coast track have won ten of the fourteen runnings of the Derby.

Wow Wow and Tiz Barows are the most intriguing newcomers on the Triple Crown trail. Both swerved the Cup Mile and enter in form good enough to enable them to take their chance.

Four overseas jockeys have rides in the race with Johan Victoire aboard Tiz Barows, Antonio Da Silva on Daemul and David Breux and Djordje Perovic partnering Fast Track and Winner Star respectively.

The Derby is race eight on an eleven-race card at Seoul on Sunday with a local post time of 16:20.

Here is the runner-by-runner guide:

KOREAN DERBY (KOR G1) 1800M Allowance / KRW 800 Million

1. DAEMUL [Menifee – Eyes Aglow (Broad Brush)]

(Runs/1st/2nd/3rd): 3/1/1/0 – (Career Earnings) KRW 30,800,000

Owner: Cho Myeong-sik Trainer: An Byung-ki Jockey: Antonio Da Silva

The lowest rated horse in the gate, Daemul has only raced three times, winning at class 6 over 1300M. Only start since was at 1700M at class 5 level on March 20th, when he led early and was still in contention entering the closing stages only to get passed and ultimately finished 7th. There was merit in that run and improvement is possible, but this is a very tough ask.  

Recent Race Video: February 19th, Class 6 (1300M) 1st: https://youtu.be/DhUsUk10JKI

2. BYEOLUI SUNGAN [Menifee – Free Release (Dixie Union)]

8/2/1/2 – KRW 99,700,000

O: Jung Hyung-chul T: Song Moon-gil J: Kim Yong-geun

Only the winner, Captain Yankee, ran the final furlong of the Cup Mile faster, Byeolui Sungan sat back and ground out the finish but had way too much to do. Previously finished 4th in the Sports Seoul Classic trial and has won up to 1400M at class 5. The distance may well suit and he has a great draw. Jockey won the Triple Crown on Power Blade in 2016 adding to his 2014 Derby on Queen’s Blade.

January 22nd, Class 5 (1400M) 1st: https://youtu.be/KI5Y5QyKUwk

3. TIZ BAROWS [Tizway – Kaylan’s Rose (Jambalaya Jazz)]

4/2/2/0 – KRW 66,000,000

O: Inokumu Hirotsugu T: Seo In-seok J: Johan Victoire

Yet to finish worse than 2nd and comes in off a good win over 1700M at class 5 level on April 2nd when he tracked the leader throughout before going clear in the home straight and winning by five-lengths in a fair time. The distance should suit, and he draws well to pick a position again, probably handy or midfield. He can be in this a long way and could be a value pick.

April 2nd, Class 5 (1700M) 1st: https://youtu.be/Dno3kgVnvuI

4. COMPLETE VALUE [Girolamo – Ft. Sduction (Ft. Stockton)]

7/5/2/0 – KRW 637,460,000

O: Jang Se-jun T: Park Jae-woo J: Lim Gi-won

A perfect five-from-five as a juvenile, he has finished runner-up in both outings this year, behind Seungbusa in the Sports Seoul Classic trial at 1400M and then to Captain Yankee in the Cup Mile. He had excuses in both. The Sports Seoul was a pipe-opener following three months without a race while he came down with a cold in the aftermath of the Cup Mile and may not have been at 100%. It still looked like he was going to win that race until Captain Yankee’s late burst and from a great draw, expect him to sit handy and then launch his challenge at the top of the straight. The one to beat and the probable favourite.

April 17th, KRA Cup Mile (1600M) 2nd: https://youtu.be/Tmtr-C_w6WQ

5. MONGTTANG [To Honor And Serve – Miss Stravinsky (Stravinsky)]

10/2/0/3 – KRW 64,150,000

O: Daeryung T: Kim Young-kwan J: Lim Sung-sil

Looked to have a lot of potential when winning back-to-back races in October last year but has come up short whenever he has been tested in good company. A fair 4th in the Gyeongnam Shinmun Classic trial over 1400M was followed up by only beating two in the Cup Mile when he sat midfield and didn’t quicken. The connections mean local punter will be wary – his trainer has won this race five times – but this is a hard ask.

February 11th, Class 4 (1600M) 3rd: https://youtu.be/pDBYqbv7o68

6. FAST TRACK [Take Charge Indy – X File (Exploit)]

8/2/0/0 – KRW 42,750,000

O: Yoon U-hwan T: Kang Hwan-min J: David Breux

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 14)

It’s Korean Derby Eve and Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. General admission to both the racecourses and off-track centers is free across this weekend to mark the occasion of the Derby. Here are Saturday’s previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings. It’s hard to go far past (3) SUNGAN TOUCH. After a lackluster debut last Christmas Day, he ran a well beaten 2nd to Daemul, who runs in Sunday’s Korean Derby, before finishing 3rd on his latest outing on March 26th. Both were at 1300M and both times he led. He draws well here to lead again and should win. (10) NAMSAN MUJEOK hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but probably won’t need to find much more in order to get on the board here. He comes in off an improved 3rd place at start number four on April 10th when he sat midfield and ran on, and he should go close here. (1) DAECHEON BEAUTY wasn’t ready when debuting last October but looked much better when returning for another go on April 9th when 4th at this distance. He should have come on for the run and can continue to make progress today. (5) MIGHTY ANN and debut-maker (2) GEUMA POSH are others who could make an impact.

Selections(3) Sungan Touch (10) Namsan Mujeok (1) Daecheon Beauty (5) Mighty Ann
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 8

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

More three-year-old maidens and a few of them look ready to win. (2) LAROMANEE just about gets the nod having shown steady improvement across her five starts to date, culminating in a 3rd place finish in her latest start when she was prominent throughout in an all-filly race over 1200M on April 3rd. She steps up to this trip for the first time, draws well, gets Moon Se-young aboard, and has every chance. (1) GEONGONILCHEOK is the main danger. He too has shown progress over five outings and enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, the latter of which was at this distance on April 16th. He will be on pace here and won’t be far away. (6) GUKDAE CLASS debuted in that April 16th race and ran a decent 5th. With some natural improvement out of that, he can go close here. (5) FLASH THUNDER and (4) SINHAN TEUKSONG are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Laromanee (1) Geongonilcheok (6) Gukdae Class (5) Flash Thunder
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Small field of filly maidens and while it is not a strong field, it is competitive. (5) EOMCHEONGNAN GIRL will probably be the favourite. She is the only runner in the field to have a 2nd place to her name and enters off a fair 4th place at this distance on April 17th when she settled in midfield and ran on. Those two factors are enough to put her on top here. (4) BARAMSAL also comes in off a last start 4th, her best finish to date, over 1200M on April 10th. She steps up in trip here but has been finishing off her races pleasingly enough so it may suit. (1) LONDON POWER has two 3rd places in her record. She went back to trial after her latest start in early April and looked extremely well in it. She looks to be the natural leader here and should be in this a long way. (3) BLUE KAISER and (6) STAR PRINCESS others who may hit the minors.

Selections(5) Eomcheongnan Girl (4) Baramsal (1) London Power (3) Blue Kaiser
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

We’ll take a chance on (8) P N S GAMBOL stepping up again. He did absolutely nothing for five starts but with a 3rd and a then a win from his latest two, he appears to have figured things out. His win came when making all over 1200M on April 30th and they turn around quickly here. He is up in class and in distance but should be on pace and can measure up. The favourite will be (9) BLUE HAMMER. He is yet to win in nine attempts but has four top-three finishes to his name, including at his latest start on April 17th at this distance when he settled midfield and ran on well. He has had a tendency to leave himself a little bit too much today but this looks like his best chance of picking up a win. (10) OLD START comes up in trip after a good 3rd place at this class over 1200M on April 10th. He finished off well that day and the additional trip may suit. (5) STAR RUSH and (6) SANGSEUNG HAENGJIN are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) P N S Gambol (9) Blue Hammer (10) Old Start (5) Star Rush
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 10
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 13)

Korean Derby weekend gets underway with action at Busan on Friday where there are 8 race from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener and it’s hard to look past (4) PYEONGHWA CHUKJE. She ran 4th on debut before improving to a narrow 2nd on her reappearance on April 8th. She was on pace both times, leading until the closing stages and from a good gate should get a soft lead here and go all the way this time. (7) LET IT GO debuted in that April 8th race and from a wide gate got well back early and only managed to run on for 7th. She should have come on for that run and with a slightly draw today, can get closer. (6) GASOK DAY has been consistent across four outings to date with the best being a 2nd place at this distance in March. She will be expected to be on pace in this company and should go close. (8) TWO TWO COIN and (9) HUIMANG PUNCH are others who can improve, the latter having looked well in an April trial.

Selections(4) Pyeonghwa Chukje (7) Let It Go (6) Gasok Day (8) Two Two Coin
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(6) QUEEN’S DAERO just about gets the nod here based on her latest outing on April 15th when she ran an improved 2nd at this distance having managed to find a handy position from a wide draw and ran on well behind Global Choego and ahead of a couple of today’s rivals.  She gets a better gate today and won’t need to improve much on that run to win this. Having never previously finished in the top five, (9) URI JOEUNNAL ran on for a surprise 2nd place at 1200M on April 17th. She carries the same light weight again and in this limited company, can run into some money again. (10) NAREUCAT comes back in trip following a solid 3rd in a small field at 1400M on April 22nd. Her running style means the draw shouldn’t be a problem and she will be in the placing hunt here. (7) B.K. HANA and (11) BAEDARI GANGHO are among other placing contenders.

Selections(6) Queen’s Daero (9) Uri Joeunnal (10) Nareucat (7) B.K. Hana
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Small but competitive field here. (8) B.J. CHIEF has mixed his form across five starts so far but has a 3rd place to his name at this distance in a fair time and comes in having overcome the widest draw to come from off the place and run 3rd over 1300M just two weeks ago. In this field, he can be on pace or handy and it could be his day. The main danger is (7) WONDERFUL BOBCAT. He is two starts into a comeback following almost a year on the sidelines and has put in two promising performances in 3rd and 5th, both at 1300M and both times running on. He could be peaking third-up here. (5) BOUNTY HUNTER comes back up in trip. He is on a run of consistent, if unspectacular performances and he can grind his way to a minor money finish again here. (9) AGAIN HELEN and (1) DOCTOR CANDY are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) B.J. Chief (7) Wonderful Bobcat (5) Bounty Hunter (9) Again Helen
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

(2) DONGBU WORLD is yet to win but is yet to finish any worse than 4th on four outings so far. His first three near-misses brought him up in class and he ran well for 3rd place on his first try at this level over 1200M on April 15th when he was on pace throughout, briefly leading in the home straight. Nicely drawn, he only comes up 1kg and he can win here. (1) KKUM NEOMEO was a 16/1 winner on debut over this distance on March 25th when he made all. He is up in class here but carries the same light weight as on debut and draws the same inside barrier. It wouldn’t be a surprise were he to win again. The rest of the field are fillies (and one mare). (6) GREEN CHEETAH has won at this distance and has since registered back-to-back 4th places at this class. She can be on pace here and be in this a long way. (7) BORAMI and (8) GLOBAL YEOSIN are others in the frame.

Selections(2) Dongbu World (1) Kkum Neomeo (6) Green Cheetah (7) Borami
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Since getting his maiden win over a mile in early March, (7) ORANGE GARAGE has raced twice at this class and distance and finished in 3rd place on both occasions, both times racing handy to the speed and in the process registering a time at the distance faster than any of the others in this field have managed. He does come up a little in the weights but in this small field will be handy again and may take some beating. (3) HOLLYWOOD QUEEN ran on very pleasingly for 4th over a mile last time out. She carries a feather weight here and should be available at an each-way price again. (2) CENTUM THOR is yet to win in fifteen starts but has been ultra-consistent with twelve to-five finishes. He has a 2nd place at this class and distance (beaten twelve-lengths by Lucas Sun) and will be there or thereabouts again. (5) ADELE BOSS and (8) WONDERFUL SECRET can also be considered.

Selections(7) Orange Garage (3) Hollywood Queen (2) Centum Thor (5) Adele Boss
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Another Peter Wolsley-trainee goes on top here. (2) CLEAR was a winner on debut all the way back in December 2020 before missing the entire 2021 season and finally returning this January. He has improved in each of his three starts since including a 2nd place in a fast time (assisted by a muddy and fast track) at this distance on March 20th. He draws great, carries an amenable weight, and can win. (10) ALIVE STAR is the logical second pick. He was a class and distance winner on April 8th when he sat handy early before striking the front on the turn and running on for a very comfortable score. He comes up a full 6kg in the weights for that effort but has run well under today’s weight before and he can be dangerous again. (9) GOLDEN BYEORAK races for the first time since January when he was a good 3rd at class and distance. He has never finished worse than 4th and has run well first-up in the past. He can settle midfield and run on here. (12) BOLAVEN and (11) CHOEGANG LIGER also in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Clear (10) Alive Star (9) Golden Byeorak (12) Bolaven
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 12

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(5) BEOLMAUI STAR was an eye-catching winner on his first two stars in November and December but he has made a stuttering start to his three-year-old season finishing 3rd when an odds-on favourite in January over 1400M before having another three-months out and returning in the KRA Cup Mile on April 17th when he was on pace early but soon ran out of energy. This is a much more suitable assignment and he could return to winning ways. (8) USURP won back to back races in January and February to rapidly get promoted to this level. He comes in having run 2nd at class and distance on April 8th when on pace and will be close again today. (1) DONGTEUJA BOY is a winner at this distance and comes in off a decent 3rd place at this class on February 25th. He has had a couple of months off since then and coming in fresh and from a good gate, may suit. (6) JUST WIN and (2) GOLDEN also have place claims.

Selections(5) Beolmaui Star (8) Usurp (1) Dongteuja Boy (6) Just Win
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

A very competitive finale in which plenty have winning claims. With a rating of 50, (8) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI is still eligible for class 4 but in taking a swing at this, comes down a full 7kg from his 4th place at this distance at class 4 level three weeks ago. He will need to improve here as he hasn’t yet posted the kind of times that some of today’s rivals have but he should have enough speed to get to the lead and he can measure up. (5) MUJEOK BULPAE and (7) NEU DAT race one another again. On April 15th Neu Dat finished 1st and Mujeok Bulpae 2nd at class and distance with Neu Dat pretty much making all. They both come up in the weights here but it’s to Mujeok Bulpae’s favour and he can overturn the form from that day. (2) FLAT BABE and (11) WORLD SOCKS among many others who can compete for at least the places.

Selections(8) Busanhang Galmaegi (5) Mujeok Bulpae (7) Neu Dat (2) Flat Babe
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 11

Golden Power Wins Korean Oaks To Move One Step Away From Tiara Sweep

Golden Power moved to within just one race of sweeping the Filly Triple Crown, as the Luna Stakes winner snared the second jewel in the crown, The Korean Oaks (1800M KOR-G2) at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Golden Power holds off Raon The Spurt to win the Korean Oaks (Pic: KRA)

The fillies who filled out the top three-places in April’s Luna Stakes, ultimately turned it into a three-way affair in the Oaks as well. Chamjoeun Chingu, nailed on the line last month, was sent off as favourite under Moon Se-young and she would set the pace.

Golden Power, after coming from almost last to first in the closing stages of the Luna, was ridden much more forward this time by jockey Choi Si-dae and immediately tracked the leader.

Raon The Spurt, instead of being ridden hard for the lead like she had been in past races, was settled gently from the widest gate by Choi Bum-hyun and gradually made progress up to 3rd.

By the top of the straight, Chamjoeun Chingu and Golden Power had opened a significant lead on the rest and when Golden Power came past her rival with a furlong and a half remaining, the race looked settled. That was to reckon without Raon The Spurt, however, who moved through the gears in the home straight and suddenly the gap was vanishing alarmingly quickly.

The line came in time though with Golden Power still a neck to the good when it mattered, with Chamjoeun Chingu a further two-and-a-half lengths in arrears in 3rd. There were nine-lengths more back to Eunseong Winner in 4th and then a further nine to a thoroughly outclassed rest.

Winning jockey Choi Si-dae felt the opening part of the race – very different from that in the Luna – today was key to the win. “Last time (in the Luna) the start wasn’t satisfactory” he told in-house broadcaster KRBC. “This time she started great, got into a good position and that was the main reason she could win the race today.”

As for her prospects of sweeping all three legs of the “Tiara” as the filly Triple Crown is known, Choi was non-committal but simply stated: “She got better today. Even better than she was last month. I am looking forward to it.”

That final race is over 2000M, and it is hard to imagine Chamjoeun Chingu posing Golden Power too many problems at the extended trip, even on her home track at Seoul. Raon The Spurt’s run was intriguing as for the first time in any of her races, she wasn’t ridden to lead. While the draw may have had a lot to do with that, it paid off and way she finished makes her a fascinating prospect back at Seoul

With regard to the rest, Wonderful Raise was backed into fourth-favourite, but having begun brightly, was on the end of severe interference at the first corner after Chamjoeun Chingu tightened onto Shy Dragon who in turn came together with Wonderful Raise, who had nowhere to go. The latter was shuffled back in the pack and lost interest in racing after that. Moon Se-young, aboard Chamjoeun Chingu was given a four-day suspension.  Wonderful Raise can perhaps therefore have a line drawn through her last place.

Eunseong Winner, though too far back, posted a final furlong time only one-tenth of a second slower than that of Raon The Spurt and she may pose more of a danger at Seoul.

Golden Power is by Afleet Express and is out of Cherokee Sheik (by Cherokee Run). She is owned by her breeder, Son Boing-chul of Winner’s Farm, and is trained by Kwon Sung-ju

The final leg of the Filly Triple Crown is the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) which will be run at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday June 4. Next weekend Seoul hosts the twenty-fifth running of the Korean Derby (1800M KOR-G1).

Korean Oaks Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (May 8)

Sunday’s feature race is the Korean Oaks at Busan – See here for full preview – part of a 6-race card on the south-coast from 12:00 to 16:45. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Golden Power beat Chamjoeun Chingu is a tight finish to the Luna Stakes. They face off again in the Korean Oaks (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (2) JAY PHOENIX has raced only once and it was back in December, but he ran well, being on pace before ultimately finishing 3rd behind a couple of useful ones over 1000M. He won a trial in early April and from a great draw, will be expected to win first-up here. (4) GRAY THOR has also raced just the once, in his case over 1200M on April 3rd when he settled handy to the lead and ran on for 6th, beating a couple of today’s rivals. That followed a promising trial and with some natural improvement, he can go close today. (10) CUPID SAFE comes in with an improved 3rd and 2nd from her latest two, both at 1300M. In the first of those she settled back in the field and at the most recent she was handy so she is versatile enough to overcome the wide gate here and can be dangerous. (6) ECHO ZONE and (8) NONSTOP ALI the best of the rest.

Selections(2) Jay Phoenix (4) Gray Thor (10) Cupid Safe (6) Echo Zone
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies and mares only here. (5) P N S CHANCE enters with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at this distance and both times running on strongly. The engagement of an apprentice jockey brings her significantly down in the weights and she can run on strongly and go close here. The main danger is (3) GALSAEK HYANGGI. She comes in following a good 2nd place over 1400M on March 19th when handy throughout. That was her best finish in six starts to date and with similar tactics today, she looks sure to be in the finish again. It’s hard to go past those two for the quinella. (10) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER was well back behind P N S Chance at her latest outing but has hinted at ability. (8) SHINE MUSIC and (12) BARO QUEEN are among others that can be considered for the places.

Selections(5) P N S Chance (3) Galsaek Hyanggi (10) Hampyeong Fighter (8) Shine Music
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start1, 10, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(3) BRAVO MAY will be the favourite here. He looks to be working back up to another win with a good 4th and 3rd from his latest two, both at this class and distance and last time out beating a couple of today’s rivals when settling midfield and running on well. He has posted decent times and from a great draw, has every chance here. (7) FIRST DREAM is yet to win in twenty-one attempts but came back to this trip last start after several goes around two turns and registered a career-best 2nd place on April 3rd when he got to the lead from gate nine and was only beaten by a very good winner. If he can be ridden forward again, he can be in this a long way. (5) PIEONADA ran adequately enough for 5th on her latest appearance on April 10th and may appreciate the step back up in trip here. (8) JISANGUN mixes his form but has placed at class and distance and along with (2) KAILLUM JEWANG, should be in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Bravo May (7) First Dream (5) Pieonada (8) Jisangun
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

There are a couple of tempting debut-makers here, but we shall side with experience and put (5) GREAT CAPTAIN on top. He has steadily improved across his four appearances to date, culminating with a strong 2nd at this distance on March 27th, when as has been his style after his debut, he settled just behind the early speed and then ran on well. An apprentice brings his weight down here and today can be his day. (4) STAR MATTA looked very well when winning a trial by as many as he pleased in a fast time on a dry track on April 23rd. His half-brother Lucas Sun has won a couple of races here and a bold showing first-up seems likely. The other first-timer is (1) GEUMA INFINITE. He trialed up in a different heat on the same morning and while he didn’t win the heat, he stopped the clock in exactly the same time as Smart Matta. All three half-siblings to make the track won. Returning to the experienced ones, (8) TRIPLE THUNDER and (7) MEOTJIN HARU look the best.

Selections(5) Great Captain (4) Star Matta (1) Geuma Infinite (8) Triple Thunder
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) HANGANG BOSS will be hot favourite to win here. He got his maiden victory two starts back over 1300M before running a strong 4th from the widest gate on his first try at this class over 1200M on March 19th when he simply couldn’t find a decent position early and had to run on from a long way back. He gets a much better gate today and the additional furlong should favour him. The logical danger is (5) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN. Despite remaining a maiden, she comes up in class here following a few too many near-misses at class 6 level and has recently been running well over 1300M. She is another for who the slight step up in trip can suit and she should be in the mix here. The form really drops off after those two, though. (4) HAPPY SOCKS has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and that’s enough to put him into the placing frame here. (3) YEONGUNG DAEMA and (2) WHITE WING others to consider for minor money.

Selections(1) Hangang Boss (5) Sojunghan Dangsin (4) Happy Socks (3) Yeongung Daema
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

(5) KING BOSS has only raced twice and has been a beaten favourite twice, finishing 4th and 3rd, both times at 1200M. He has raced prominently both times and draws nicely again to do the same here. His time at the distance is quicker than all but one has recorded, and it can be third-time lucky as market leader today. (2) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE took a few goes to figure things out but has a 2nd and a 3rd to his name now at this level. He draws nicely here and under a light weight, can be in the mix. (4) WORLD FLOWER remains a maiden but comes in off a career-best 2nd place scored at this distance on April 10th when she went right back and ran on. If she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, she can be considered here. (3) CHONGAL CHARM and (1) WONDERFUL DIGGER are others who can have minor money claims.

Selections(5) King Boss (2) Choegang Mujigae (4) World Flower (3) Chongal Charm
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 11
(more…)

Korean Oaks 2022: Runner-By-Runner Preview

Only the narrowest of noses split Golden Power and Chamjoeun Chingu at the end of the Luna Stakes last month and at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon the fillies meet again in the second leg of their Triple Crown as ten go to post in the Korean Oaks (1800M KOR-G2).

Six of the ten come out of that Luna Stakes, the first leg of the filly Triple Crown which took place over a mile at Busan on April 10th, and they filled out the top six places. In that race, Raon The Spurt was sent off as the favourite and she led a long way before ultimately been passed by long-time stalker Chamjoeun Chingu. However, Golden Power and Choi Si-dae would emerge from the field to nail both on the line.

It was a superb late effort and gives every indication that Golden Power, who went wide and made up fully twenty-lengths in the home straight over fillies who didn’t exactly stop running themselves, can only benefit from the additional furlong.

Chamjoeun Chingu though draws much better this time and with Moon Se-young aboard again, will have plenty of backers to maintain Seoul-trained horses excellent recent record in the race; the Trophy has headed to the Capital four times in the last five years. Raon The Spurt too remains a live contender.

The locally trained Golden Power is not the only hope for the host track. Trainer Kim Young-kwan has prepared no fewer than five Oaks winners and this year sends out Wonderful Raise. She is an on-pace filly who ran a super race in the Luna for 4th and just like Chamjoeun Chingu, draws a much better barrier this time around.

The Korean Oaks is race 5 on the 6-race card at Busan and has a post time of 15:55 KST. Here is a full run-down of the field in race card order:

1.  WONDERFUL RAISE [Menifee – On The Podium (Bold Executive)] – A fast winner at class 5 level over 1400M in February, she drew gate thirteen in the Luna Stakes and ran a creditable 4th. Every chance of coming on for that run, her trainer has won the race five times and it would be no surprise to see her in the finish.

2. MAGIC GRACE [Magic Dancer – Ua Deungseon (Menifee)] – A winner up to class 4 level in Seoul and of three from seven in total. She is yet to go further than 1400M but as an on-pace type she draws well to give herself the best possible chance. Not a top line favourite but a case can be made for some minor money.

3. SHY DRAGON [Menifee – Monday’s Child (Stravinsky)] – Likely to be one of the longest shots on the board, she takes her chance following a good win at class 5 level in an all-filly race over 1200M on March 18th when she sat midfield and ran on well. Yet to run further than 1200M and this is a big step up.

4. CHAMJOEUN CHINGU [Musket Man – Googlette (Exceed And Excel)] – A winner over 1700M at class 4 level in Seoul before losing out in the final stride to Golden Power in the Luna Stakes. That day she had to contend with gate fourteen but gets a much more favourable draw here and should get a much easier run. She has a big chance.

5. GOLDEN POWER [Afleet Express – Cherokee Sheikh (Cherokee Run)] – The Luna Stakes winner, she came from the back of the field to the front in the home straight and just made it on the line by the narrowest of noses. She is yet to go beyond a mile, but she was traveling by far the quickest at the end of the Luna and she has every chance of winning again. Probable favourite.

6. EUNSEONG WINNER [Menifee – Achimsarang (Broken Vow)] – Her solitary win came at class 6 level over 1300M in early March, making all. That led her to take her chance in the Luna and whilst sent off one of the longest shots on the board, she ran a solid 6th. She can settle midfield here and while she doesn’t look a winning chance, she should see out the trip and can aim for some minor money.

7. LUCKY CROWN [Girolamo – Peregian (Grand Lodge)] – Her only win came at class 6 level over 1200M and she as 7th of ten in the Sports Seoul Classic trial. Nevertheless, she took her chance in the Luna and only winner Golden Power posted a faster final furlong time as she came from the back of the field to run on for 5th. On the face of it, the additional trip can suit and don’t rule her out of passing some tired fillies again.

8. ADELE GOLD [Girolamo – Gold Mine (Officer)] – She comes in having picked up her maiden win last time out at what was start number six over 1300M hen she sat handy to midfield and finished off well, scoring easily. This is a big step up in both class and distance and despite the top jockey booking, she will be an outsider.

9. ALPHA SONGDANG [Old Fashioned – Miss Win (Perfect Vision II)] – The wildcard. Since running 3rd on debut at 1000M, she has registered two wins up to 1200M at class 5 level. She has been on pace in all her races so far and while this is a totally different test, she may be interesting and a probable big price. Jockey Kim Hye-sun is the only female rider to have won a Classic in Korea, taking this race on Jejui Haneul in 2017.

10. RAON THE SPURT [Musket Man – Tomiken Spring (Suzuka Mambo)] – She won three of her first four starts before coming up short at this distance at class 3 level at Seoul in February. That didn’t stop her from being sent off as favourite for the Luna, a race she led but ultimately finished 3rd, half a length behind the winner. She is not favoured by the draw as she likes to lead, but she has plenty of quality and if she can find a forward position, she can be in the finish again. Jockey won the race in 2020.

Selections: (4) Chamjeoun Chingu (5) Golden Power (1) Wonderful Raise (10) Raon The Spurt