Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 8)

The second weekend of the night racing season kicks off on Sunday with a 7-race program at Busan from 15:35 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maidens to open proceedings. (3) CHOEGANG FORCE was a touch disappointing last time out on June 3rd when he took a bump at the start and was always at a disadvantage from there on although the margin of defeat wasn’t huge on the line. Before that he had been consistent and while he has tended to get to far back in his races, he runs on well and today can be his day. (2) THE PRINCESS enters off three consecutive 4th place finishes. She doesn’t have an apprentice claim today but gets Franco Da Silva aboard and from a good draw, should be looking for her best finish to date. (7) DOCTOR PENTAGON has hinted at figuring things out with a last start 3rd over 1200M on June 17th. He steps up to this trip for the first time and it may well suit. (9) GLOBAL CATCHER and (5) GRAPHENE KING others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Choegang Force (2) The Princess (7) Doctor Pentagon (9) Global Catcher
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

The second division of the maiden in a competitive race with two standouts. We’ll side with (1) MY SONG, who comes in having run 2nd and 4th in her latest two, both at 1300M. Park Jae-i takes the ride today, she draws well and the additional half furlong can be to her benefit. The main danger is (7) ZET CASH. He has experience of this distance already including a runner-up finish at it on his latest appearance on May 20th. His times haven’t been fast but he likes to settle back and run on and he will surely be in the finish here. (8) NAREUCAT is another who goes back and runs on. She has a 3rd place to her name at this distance and that’s enough to bring her into the calculations. (3) GOLDEN POINT improved at start number three and can build on that here while (9) YEONSEUNG GLORY is another in the placing frame.

Selections(1) My Song (7) Zet Cash (8) Nareucat (3) Golden Point
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A small field tackles the two-turns. It’s hard to go too far past (3) HERO MAN. Two starts back on June 10th he ran 2nd at class and distance when handy throughout and then beat a couple of today’s rivals when 5th at a mile on June 24th. Though this will be his fifth start in eight weeks, an apprentice claim brings him down significantly in the weights today and he he’ll be the one they need to beat. (1) MY PAL got his maiden win two starts back on June 3rd over a mile and then ran 6th behind Hero Man on his first go at this class on June 24th. He tries this distance for the first time though his running style suggests it can suit and from a good draw and under a light weight, he can go close. (2) ANNIKA GIRL is yet to win in fourteen attempts but has eight top-five finishes. She too attempts two-turns for the first time and while she may find one or two too quick again, she can be competitive. (4) ADELE SMART and the veteran (5) FINAL FRONT are others to consider.

Selections(3) Hero Man (1) My Pal (2) Annika Girl (4) Adele Smart
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

A winner of five from eleven in total, (7) GALAXY ROAD returned from almost six months out to run a solid 2nd at class and distance on June 5th, racing handy to the lead throughout. He should strip fitter for that run, he only comes up 1kg in the weights and he can win here. (2) GALLANT WARRIOR comes up in class following back-to-back wins over this distance at class 4 level, both from on pace. He comes sown significantly in the weights and can measure up in this company. Also up in class following two consecutive wins is (6) HAPPY WOMAN. Her wins came over a mile and while this is harder, she can be competitive under a light weight. Another up in class but down in weight is (3) ADELE CROWN, following three consecutive runner-up finishes, one over this distance. (5) ECOPIA another who can enter the calculations.

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Apprentice Kim Tae-hui In Top Form In Seoul

Who is the leading jockey at Seoul Racecourse since the start of June? Moon Se-young or Kim Yong-geun perhaps? Or maybe former champion Antonio Da Silva or the legendary Alan Munro? It’s none of them. Instead, it is second-year apprentice Kim Tae-hui, who has partnered seven winners in the timeframe, one ahead of veteran Jang Chu-youl with perennial champion Moon one further back following his four winners at the weekend.

Apprentice Kim Tae-hui has 7 winners since the start of June (Pic Ross Holburt/KRA)

True, there are some unusual circumstances. The plethora of Graded races in June meant weekends away in Busan for some of the leading jockeys, including Moon Se-young, who also saw a suspension lead to him only taking eleven rides in the capital all month.

Nevertheless, it is a remarkable achievement by apprentice Kim, especially given that she missed four months of the season through injuries sustained in a bad race fall in January. Having only debuted in July of last year, that means she only has approximately eight months of race riding experience and has still only had 172 race rides.

Although all jockeys, including apprentices, went freelance at the start of 2022, Kim Tae-hui has continued to benefit from support from Song Moon-gil, who has a strong arsenal at his disposal. However, it isn’t a simple matter of getting horses with a chance and Kim is making sure she converts these opportunities into the best possible placing more often than not. Since her debut, her overall win rate is 10% with a 20% quinella and 27% place rate.

Kim’s ability to ride a sound tactical race was on display on Saturday with her win on Smart Jeonsa in race 6, which she made look very simple indeed:

Kim Tae-hui isn’t the only youngster making an impression at Seoul. Lim Da-bin, a year ahead of her, has already ridden out his apprentice claim, while Kim A-hyun, also a 2020 starter is making good progress too, shedding 2kg from claim. She too is generally making the most of opportunities when they arise, as shown on her confident ride to win on favourite Tap Quality in race 7 on Sunday. Both Lim and Kim A-hyun are also in the top-ten for the period since June 1st.

Two new apprentices, Lee Sang-gyu and O Su-cheol have been licensed as of the start of this month and are expected to make their racing debuts soon.

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 3)

Sunday’s racing is at both Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (7 races from 11:35 to 17:05). Entry to both racecourses is free across this weekend. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(5) MIGHTY ANN will be the favouite here and she looks hard to go past. She enters off a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, both times on pace. In this small field she will be expected to lead and should go all the way. (8) DONGTEUJA WAY debuted back in March, finishing back in the pack in a fast race on a wet track at this distance. He had previously shown a bit of speed in a trial and with some natural improvement here, can go closer. Debut-maker (2) DANAEUN ROSE overcame the widest gate in a trial to get to the front and run on to cross the line 3rd. She can join the favourite on the speed here and can produce a bold showing first-up. (1) EAST MAGIC and (4) HWANGOO GANGJA the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Mighty Ann (8) Dongteuja Way (2) Danaeun Rose (1) East Magic
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

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

(2) CHANGER was a beaten favourite on his second start on June 4th when on pace but weakening late on to finish 6th. He had previously run 2nd over this trip on April 23rd so we’ll give him another chance here against limited opposition. (1) RED WARRIOR was well fancied on debut having run well in an April trial. He showed on pace in the May 22nd race at this distance but dropped away in the final furlong. He should have come on from that and can be a different prospect today. (5) WONDERFUL MUSKET raced twice in December 2020 and March 2021 but hasn’t been seen since. She performed well in a trial in mid-June and the jockey booking catches the eye. (7) ANYANG SAJA and (8) GUK HYANG others with placing chances.

Selections(2) Changer (1) Red Warrior (5) Wonderful Musket (7) Anyang Saja
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

Seven previously unraced juveniles get their first taste of racing here so it’s to the trial videos we head. The standout is (1) BETELGEUSE. He looked very assured in his trial crossing the line 4th in a fast time under minimal pressure. He draws nicely to be on pace here and while that trial was back at the end of April, his star can shine bright first-up. (4) ILGANG DAERO was the next best in trials, settling midfield and then running through the line well in 2nd in a good time. (2) CHEONSAUI NORAE too settled back in her heat and ran on pleasingly for 3rd place. She gets a good draw and should be working home strongly again. Stablemate of Betelgeuse (7) ARCTURUS continues the space theme. He didn’t do much wrong when trialling and can go well first-up. (3) WONDERFUL ANDOVER came through the same heat as Ilgang Daero and while further back, wasn’t too far away.

Selections(1) Betelgeuse (4) Ilgang Daero (2) Cheonsaui Norae (7) Arcturus
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

(3) VESPER returned from over a year out to run 2nd over 1200M on May 29th when she went right back at the start but finished powerfully, albeit well beaten by a good winner. She should have come on for the run, comes into a better gate today and can go one better with the slightly additional trip in her favour. The main danger is (4) ACE PLAN. He enters in consistent form with a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from his latest three outings all at this distance and with some good times. He’ll be on pace here and could well go all the way. (2) CAMP SAVER comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at 1200M. She is another one who likes to run on pace, and she draws nicely here. (1) SAEBYEOK BAND and (5) CLAIR POWER are others in the money hunt.

Selections(3) Vesper (4) Ace Plan (2) Camp Saver (1) Saebyeok Band
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

Maiden fillies (and one mare) here with three racing for the first time. One of the newcomers is the top pick in the shape of (3) TOTAL ECLIPSE. She led her trial, ultimately running 2nd in a fast time behind a horse who ran 3rd of eight on his own debut last week. She can put her rivals in the shade here. Having run 2nd on debut, (11) QUEEN ALLIE had a poor day at the office when favourite on her return on May 29th, seemingly becoming unbalanced early in the race and never playing a role. She was sent back to trial after that, and she won a heat on June 11th in fine style and is worth another chance here. (4) CROWD ONE has been consistent if unspectacular across six starts so far. Similar runs to her latest should see her in the finish here. Stablemate of Total Eclipse, (9) KATNISS isn’t very quick, but she did lead at her latest outing on June 3rd, holding on for 3rd. She comes in under a light weight and a repeat can’t be ruled out. (5) POCKET POWER has been through loads of trials and finally makes it to the races with a chance first-up.

Selections(3) Total Eclipse (11) Queen Allie (4) Crowd One (9) Katniss
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A weak maiden here. (2) MIR POWER probably warrants favourite status based on her 3rd place two starts back over 1200M. She only beat a couple home on her next outing on June 19th but while she comes up in the weights, Moon Se-young gets the leg up today and she has as good a chance as any. (1) STAR CRAZY has shown his best form in trials, but he draws a good gate here and the apprentice keeps his carried weight low. He should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (3) GEUMA WITTY comes up in trip following a couple of creditable performances at 1200M. She has been one-paced but that may be enough to see her into some money here. (5) DEVIL K only beat one home on debut but did win a trial and may improve. (7) HEEMANG WARRIOR managed a 3rd place on debut on May 1st and while it was a slow race, that alone is enough to being her into contention in this company.

Selections(2) Mir Power (1) Star Crazy (3) Geuma Witty (5) Devil K
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 2)

The first afternoon/evening meeting of the year at Seoul takes place on Saturday with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Perhaps this night racing season, we shall update our stock photos of night racing.

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

Maiden juveniles over the short course in the opener. Two of the nine have raced before and while experience is usually worth plenty in these types of races, we’ll take a chance on a newcomer. (6) MENI POCKET is the second out of eight-time winner Meni Money to make the track. She went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them earlier this month, responding very nicely when asked and running through the line well. She is a bit on the small side but can win first up. (9) NUT PLAY ran well enough for 4th on debut in a fair time on May 28th, on pace throughout. He should have come on for that run and get closer today. (4) WONPYEONG KILLAR debuted in the same race, finishing in 5th place and with natural improvement, he too can be backed. Returning to the debut-makers, (2) GWANGCHIGI won his trial in good fashion and can lead from a good draw, while (1) GOOD CABO is bound to be backed with Moon Se-young on.

Selections(6) Meni Pocket (9) Nut Play (4) Wonpyeong Killar (2) Gwangchigi
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

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

Maidens here. (4) NAOL ACE will be hot favourite coming in off back-to-back 4th place finishes, most recently over this distance in a time significantly quicker than any of his rivals here have achieved. He comes in fresh following a fourteen-week layoff and he should win. (3) JEONGMUN PAPAGO was an improved 3rd on his latest start on May 29th when settling midfield and running on. He comes into a better gate today and looks a solid placing chance again. (7) WONDERFUL HAWAII has mixed her form across eleven previous outings but does have a 2nd and a 3rd to her name at this distance. A top-three finish will see her up in class and she probably should achieve it. (1) COMPLETE JOY and (8) P N S LIN are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(4) Naol Ace (3) Jeongmun Papago (7) Wonderful Hawaii (1) Complete Joy
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

A small field of maidens and (6) TANGJA is the clear pick following his much-improved 2nd at start number two over this distance back in March. He broke a bit slow that day from a wide gate but was quickly up with the speed and led until the closing stages. He ultimately went down by a nose to Mighty Good who has since won again at class 5 level and while this is his first start since, he should win. (1) VICTORY SAM ran 2nd over 1000M all the way back in June of last year. She didn’t reappear until the end of this May when she led before tiring. She should strip fitter for that run and can go close today. (7) GEUMSEONG CROWN ran 4th on his return from six-months out at the end of May. He too should have come on for that run and looks a placing chance here. (5) TRES VITE and (4) SKY PANGPANG others with minor money hopes.

Selections(6) Tangja (1) Victory Sam (7) Geumseong Crown (5) Tres Vite
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(4) ORAE HAMKKEHAJA was a winner on debut over 1200M, making all, before returning and running 5th on his first try at this class over 1400M on June 4th. He comes up in the weights here and also in distance to two-turns, but he should be able to overcome both and can win. (9) JEONGMUN POKJU comes in having run 3rd on his latest try at this distance on May 22nd when on pace throughout. He too comes up in the weights but Moon Se-young remains aboard and he will be a big danger here. (1) JIGEUMYEOGIE came from well off the pace to run a smart 3rd at class and distance on June 5th. From the inside gate he can be dropped in behind the speed here and then run on strong once more. (6) FLYING ATHENA and (3) THAT’S MY BOY others who can enter the placing calculations.

Selections(4) Orae Hamkkehaja (9) Jeongmun Pokju (1) Jigeimyeogie (6) Flying Athena
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) KING HONOR has hinted at ability across three starts so far and finished off well for 4th over 1300M at his latest outing on June 5th. He comes up slightly in trip here, should be on the lead, and can win. (7) EPIPHANY mixes his form but goes well on his day and this small field can suit. He will settle behind the leaders and can run on strong. (6) BANG BANG TTEUNE has tended to get a little bit far back in her races but she has run a decent time at this trip. She is another who may appreciate the smaller field and can experience less traffic problems today. (2) RUNNER MONSTER comes in off his best finish to date, when 3rd over 1300M on June 5th. The same apprentice keeps the weight light and he can go close. (3) BEST BIG BANG another in the hunt.

Selections(4) King Honor (7) Epiphany (6) Bang Bang Tteune (2) Runner Monster
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 1)

The summer racing season begins at Busan on Friday with 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Nights

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(1) SINUI JEONSA has some decent experience with a 2nd place over this distance on his latest start on June 12th when handy throughout. He also has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and from a better draw today, looks a big chance. There are two fist-time starters and we’re going to take a chance on one of them. (6) DIXIE BAND is a half-sister to multiple stakes winners Beolmaui Kkum and Kkakjaengi as well as prolific race winner Dixie Again. She trialed up fairly enough earlier this month running 3rd in her heat without having too much asked of her. The winner of that trial was an easy winner on debut last week. She’ll sit handy and can run on here. (5) THUNDER CLOUD was a close at hand 5th over 1400M on her last start on June 3rd. She can settle behind the speed here and has a god finish on her. (8) GOLD SWEET and (3) SORI TAEPUNG are others with at least placing chances.

Selections(1) Sinui Jeonsa (6) Dixie Band (5) Thunder Cloud (8) Gold Sweet
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(8) RUNNING WARRIOR gets the nod here. After an indifferent beginning to her career, she appears to have begun figuring things out in her latest two recording a 3rd and a 4th, both over 1300M. Her times have been nothing special but she won’t need to improve much to win this and can be expected to be on pace from the start. (9) STAR MATTA has been well supported in both outings so far, following a strong trial. He has raced adequately and the engagement of an apprentice jockey brings him right down in the weights today. He should go close. (4) NOBLE COWBOY also finally looked like a racehorse when an improved 4th over this distance on June 3rd. He can build on that here and aim to place again. (1) SPECIAL FACT and (5) YEONGCHEON POWER others who can find the money.

Selections(8) Running Warrior (9) Star Matta (4) Noble Cowboy (1) Special Fact
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A small field but a good one with plenty of winning chances. (3) KING GOLIATH has won just once from eleven attempts but has eight top-three finishes, including a 3rd on June 17th at this class and distance when returning from five months off. That was a tough ask first-up and he ran well and should strip fitter as a result. He has a big chance here. (7) WONDERFUL SECRET comes up in class having won at this distance on June 10th when on pace throughout and coming home in a fast time. The set weight conditions don’t do him any favours here but he should be measuring up in this company. (4) CHEONGHO LEADER and (8) YEONGCHEON SOLEMIO came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other at this distance back on May 15th. Both should be competitive here. (1) DUMUSAN will be running on late and while up significantly in the weights, can be a danger.

Selections(3) King Goliath (7) Wonderful Secret (4) Cheongho Leader (8) Yeongcheon Solemio
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

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

(5) HAMAN BONGHWASAN is the one to beat here. She has been consistent over five starts so far with his win being a front-running performance over 1300M. At her latest start at 1200M on May 27th, the sat behind the pace and ran 3rd when favourite but is worth another chance here in slightly softer company. (2) PURPLE MANGO was an all the way winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back and while she was only 5th on her first try at this class on June 10th, she draws much better today and should get closer. (8) CHIEF OFFICER ran 3rd in that same race, an uptick on recent form and can maintain his momentum here. (11) COLOR WIND ran a good 3rd at her latest start. She has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and while the draw is not in her favour, she can be considered. The returning (4) SMARTY DOLPUNG trialed up well.

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Summer Race Schedule To Begin July 1st – 9pm Finishes Friday & Saturday

Racing will switch to its summer schedule from this coming weekend, Friday July 1st, running until the the weekend that ends on Sunday August 28th. During July and August, racing on Fridays and Saturdays will have a mid-afternoon start with the final race at 9pm. The Sunday schedule will remain unaffected.

Evening racing is to return after a two year hiatus

Typical schedules will be as follows:

FRIDAY

Busan Racecourse: 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00

Jeju Racecourse: 8 races from 14:10 to 20:00

SATURDAY

Seoul Racecourse: 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00

Jeju Racecourse: 6 races from 14:00 to 17:45

SUNDAY

Seoul Racecourse: 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00

Busan Racecourse: 7 races from 11:35 to 17:05

There will be free entry to all racecourses on the weekend of Friday July 1st to Sunday July 3rd.

Winner’s Man Completes Stayer Sweep

It’s long been known as the “Summer Grand Prix”, and this year’s Busan Mayor’s Cup (1800M KOR-G2) didn’t disappoint as Winner’s Man completed a clean-sweep of the Stayer Series at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, propelling him one step closer to a clash with the internationals in September’s Korea Cup while also confirming a generational change at the elite level of Korean racing.

Despite having won the first two legs of the Stayer Series, the Herald Business Trophy (2000M KOR-L) and the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G2), Winner’s Man was only sent off as second-favourite for the nine-furlong Mayor’s Cup as punters backed Grand Prix Stakes winner Haengbok Wangja to avenge his YTN defeat.

As it turned out, the perils of anything but a low draw in a big field over the 1800M at Busan, what with its short run to the first turn, ensnared Haengbok Wangja as following a slightly below par jump from the gate, Haengbok Wangja found himself pushed wide on the first corner and trailing the field. While he would ultimately record the second fastest final furlong time of all of them, it was in vain, and he finished 9th.

Winner’s Man wins the Mayor’s Cup (KRA)

That left double Classic winner and runner-up to Winner’s Man in the 2021 Derby, Hit Yegam, to claim the early lead with Winner’s Man matching him stride for stride. They would remain that way until the home straight when Winner’s Man finally shook off old rival Hit Yegam, who was the colt who beat him to Champion Three-Year-Old honours last year, and Winner’s Man strode away for a three-length win.

The always prominent Simjangui Godong ran on powerfully for 2nd with up and coming four-year-olds Success Macho and King Of The Match in in 3rd and 4th. Hit Yegam, after his early exertions, was 5th.

“I’m really happy” winning trainer Choi Ki-hong told national broadcaster KBS, which screened the race live on their N Sports channel.  “The race played out exactly as we had planned but that was only possible due to the hard work of everyone at the stable who made sure everything was right for Winner’s Man today.”

“(Jockey) Seo Seung-un really played his part too, he gave Winner’s Man the perfect ride. It’s a huge achievement for the horse and for us to win all three races in this series and we’ll make sure to keep Winner’s Man happy and plan carefully for what is to come next”.

Ultimately that could be the Korea Cup (1800M-G3) in Seoul on September 4th with the international race set to return for the first time since 2019. On today’s evidence, Winner’s Man is at least worth a chance against overseas opposition and with Korean-bred runners occupying six of the first seven places in the Mayor’s Cup, there is little to fear, either in the international race or in the imminent resumption of imported racehorses.

The Mayor’s Cup also signaled a confirmation of the changing of the guard. Simjangui Godong was the only horse older then four in the top five and the only three runners aged seven or above, occupied the last three places. Longest shot on the board Super Socks was one of those but he was at least in touch with the field.

That wasn’t the case for Cheongdam Dokki and Blue Chipper. The latter bled for the second time in as many races and while he was a winner as recently as January and Dokki as recently as last autumn, it seems that retirement is the best option for both champions now.

Winner’s Man is now where Cheongdam Dokki and Blue Chipper were when they were four years old. The future is a bright one.

Race Video (English): https://youtu.be/4jRRxWA53Zc

Winner’s Man Jockey Cam: https://youtu.be/t0KB5hLmVhY

Mayor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (June 26)

The Busan Mayor’s Cup has attracted a super field and is the feature race of a big Sunday program in Korea. See here for a full preview of the big race. There are 6 races at Busan from 11:35 to 16:20 as well as 11 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Ten three-year-old maiden fillies go around in the opener and there are two standouts. (2) GEUMA CHIC was a much-improved runner-up at start number two on June 5th when unlike on debut, she was prominent throughout. She draws nicely again to sit close to the speed and with a bit more natural improvement, she can win. (8) SONGAM ARCHGIRL has improved across three outings to date. Along with Geuma Chic, she is the only one in the field to have previously raced at this distance and she registered a faster time when running 2nd from a wide gate on April 23rd. She comes in fresh after nine weeks off and may start as favourite. (10) GREEN DRAGON has put in two creditable runs in 2nd and 4th so far, both times on pace. The draw isn’t ideal, but she looks a good place chance again. (1) MAGIC MOCCASIN should be on the early speed from the inside gate and can be in this a long way while (9) FLY JENNY has the potential to improve from her debut.

Selections(2) Geuma Chic (8) Songam Archgirl (10) Green Dragon (1) Magic Moccasin
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

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

Three-year-old maidens although this one is open to the boys as well. It’s hard to look past (5) WORLD CHARM. Having trialled up well, he was 2nd on debut at this distance on May 28th when handy to the lead throughout. The time wasn’t fast, but he wasn’t beaten too far and with some natural improvement here, he should win. (12) DREAM ROSE was sent off as favourite for her debut on back on March 20th, having shown good speed in a trial. He ran 5th having been close to the pace and having had a further three months off since and has every chance of improvement. (7) NB JEONSA comes in off a 3rd and a 4th at this distance in his latest two, having been on pace both times. He’ll be getting forward again and should be going close. (2) ROMA BLADE and (4) SHOOTING REVERSE others with placing chances.

Selections(5) World Charm (12) Dream Rose (7) NB Jeonsa (2) Roma Blade
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 12

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

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings on the south coast. (2) WORLD FOUR A will be a hot favourite to break through at what will be start number three having run 2nd and 3rd in two prior outings. He’s been on the pace both times and from a great draw should lead again and prove hard to catch. (6) TOMYRIS won a trial before drawing the widest gate on debut and getting well back before running on for 6th. She should have come on for that run and from a much better draw today she can get much closer. (9) TWO OF US has been consistent across three starts so far and has registered the fastest time for the distance of any of these when 3rd back in April. She too likes to get forward and while she is drawn a little wide, she should be competitive again. First-time starter (11) TAP DANCER and (12) GEOMBOSEONG are others in the placing frame at least.

Selections(2) World Four A (6) Tomyris (9) Two Of Us (11) Tap Dancer
Next Best12, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

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

(7) EUNHYE RECORD looks the one to beat here. He comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes over this distance and 1400M, last time out beating a couple of today’s rivals. He can sit behind the speed here and use his strong finish to make the breakthrough. (8) ECHO ZONE finished 6th behind Eunhye Record when they met at 1400M on May 28th. He also has a 3rd to his name over 1200M and may appreciate the slight drop in trip and the less unfavourable draw. (11) JAKDUKONG and (9) P N S YARNS came home 3rd and 4th with not much between them when they raced each other at 1200M on May 29th. Both came from off the pace, and both shouldn’t be concerned by the relatively wide gates. (10) ARCH RIVER has the fastest time of these at the distance and is another with potential to improve.

Selections(7) Eunhye Record (8) Echo Zone (11) Jakdukong (9) P N S Yarns
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) MILK DAY enters in the best form here having finished 4th and 2nd in his latest two, most recently at 1400M on May 29th when from a wide gate, he sat behind the speed and ran on for a close runner-up finish, his best in ten starts so far. In doing so, he registered the fastest time amongst those who have tackled this distance before and from a nice gate, can drop in behind the leaders again and run on. (8) VIEW AMAZING comes in off a much-improved 2nd place at this distance on May 27th, when on pace throughout. He should be on the speed here and can be in this a long way. (6) STAR CATCH has shown good consistency across her most recent outings. Last time out on May 29th at 1300M, she settled back in the pack and ran through the line well for 3rd. She steps up to 1400M for the first time and it may suit. (10) CITY BLADE and (7) AGAIN HELEN are others in at least the placing calculations.

Selections(4) Milk Day (8) View Amazing (6) Star Catch (10) City Blade
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11
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Busan Mayor’s Cup: Race-Of-The-Year (so far) Full Preview

A sensational set of stayers will assemble for the Mayor’s Cup (1800M KOR-G2) at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. The final leg of the Stayer Series has turned into a full-on local trial for the International Korea Cup, which will be run in Seoul on the first Sunday of September, with a who’s who of recent Group race winners in what could be the race of the year so far.

Winner’s Man the 2021 Korean Derby winner is set to be favourite. He is a perfect three for three in 2022, with victories in the first two legs of the series, the Herald Business (2000M KOR-L) and the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Seoul.

In the YTN, Winner’s Man beat Haengbok Wangja, the 2021 Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) victor and the latter returns for another crack at him here. Also in the starting gate will be President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) winner Simjangui Godong as well as double Classic winner and runner-up to Winner’s Man in the Derby, Hit Yegam.

YTN Cup 1st and 2nd Winner’s Man and Haengbok Wangja return at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

It’s not just the Group winners. Along with a set of class 1 stalwarts, two exciting up and comers will also present their credentials on the elite stage. Tuhonui Banseok has won his latest two at this distance in fine style which Success Macho is a winner of nine from ten so far. Both will have plenty of backers.  

Then there are the two old Champions. Cheongdam Dokki has won this race before – but then there is little he hasn’t won – back in 2018, but on his only scheduled start so far this year, refused to load. Blue Chipper comes in off a disappointing effort in the Busan Ilbo Sprint despite having won at this distance in January. On their day though, both may still have a race in them.

1. TUHONUI BANSEOK (USA) [Verrazano – Sense Of Beauty (Street Sense)]

O: Lim Byung-ho T: Bart Rice J: Franco Da Silva

8(4/2/1) KRW 166,700,000

Flying through the classes and comes in off a nine-length win at class 2 level over this distance, eased down in a quick time. He is an on-pace galloper so the draw bodes well and while this is a quantum leap up in class, he can be considered.

2. HIT YEGAM (KOR) [Take Charge Indy – Desert Heat (Mr. Prospector)]

O: Kim Joon-hyun T: Bang Dong-suk J: Lim Sung-sil

13(9/3/0) KRW 872,700,000

Won the KRA Cup Mile and Minister’s Cup last year and runner-up in the Derby. Disregard his latest two outings over the sprint journey, although he stuck gamely on last start after leading, he comes back to his preferred distance today and is beautifully drawn.

3. WINNER’S MAN (KOR) [Musket Man – Winner’s Marine (Volponi)]

O: Lee Gyeong-hui T: Choi Ki-hong J: Seo Seung-un

16(11/2/1) KRW 1,109,230,000

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 25)

There are nine races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. The first five races will be run in honour of trainers Kim Jeom-oh, Park Dae-heung, Seo Jung-ha, Lim Bong-chun and Ji Yong-cheol, all of whom are retiring this month. Here are the previews:

Sports Chosun winner Determination will be in action on Saturday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Juvenile maidens including the first two-year-old of the year to race for the second time. That experience could be key and (3) A ONE STAR is the pick. He ran 3rd of eight on debut on May 28th when at the back of the field for most of the way before running on strongly. He should have come on for that and can give trainer Ji Yong-cheol a winning start to the final weekend of his thirty-six-year career. A One Star shows we always have to be careful with the trial results as he was very slow in his and was sent off at 76/1 on debut. (7) MORNING PRINCE won his heat when prominent throughout and is perhaps the pick of the newcomers. (1) GLOBAL KANGTA ran on well for 3rd in his heat in a fair time. He gets a better draw for his real race debut and can go close. (4) NEMO PRINCE and (6) HANGANG YEOUL also ran in times that can see them competitive here.

Selections(3) A One Star (7) Morning Prince (1) Global Kangta (4) Nemo Prince
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Another set of juveniles racing for a big prize with seven of the nine making their racecourse debuts. We’ll side with experience though and (6) WHITE NUMBER ONE. After trialing up fairly, he ran 3rd on debut having been handy throughout and with some natural improvement from that run, can go very close here. (5) SURE WIN won her trial in fine style, sitting behind the leader early before running on well. If she brings that form to the races, she will be in the finish. (1) LEGAL HIGH also won her trial, settling back and running on. The time wasn’t fast but didn’t need to be and with an apprentice taking 3kg off her back, she comes in under a feather weight. (2) NAVY CHROME is a rare California Chrome filly in Korea. She made all to win her trial in a fair time and from a nice draw should be on pace early here. (8) GEOMEUN JIJLU among others who hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(6) White Number One (5) Sure Win (1) Legal High (2) Navy Chrome
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

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

Three-year-old (and one juvenile) maidens here with five of the twelve racing for the first time. It’s hard to look far past (1) OKCHEON CHOEGANG. He has shown steady improvement over his four starts so far and at his latest was 2nd at this distance on May 29th when handy to the speed throughout and briefly leading with a furlong to run. He draws well here to lead and should go all the way. (5) KINGS EYE ran 4th behind Okcheon Choegang in that May 29th race. That was an improvement from his debut and if he continues on the same development trajectory, he has a chance here. So too (8) EUNPA MOUNTAIN, who came home 3rd at this distance at start number two on May 22nd. He will look to sit handy to the speed and can run on. Debut-maker (4) GOLD POWER as well as (11) ARA CHAMP are among others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections(1) Okcheon Choegang (5) Kings Eye (8) Eunpa Mountain (4) Gold Power
Next Best11, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 9

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

Fillies and mares only here. (5) K N OLD QUEEN is the one to beat. Her win came at this distance in a good time when making all at class 6 level in January and she has run fairly in two subsequent outings at this class including her latest on May 15th when 3rd. She likes to sit on pace or handy and should prove too strong here. (4) HWASUBOON had a poor day at the office over 1300M on March 26th. She’s had almost three months off since then and is a class and distance winner already so can be given another chance today. Likewise (2) REMARKABLE was only ordinary on her latest appearance on May 29th. She is yet to win in eleven attempts but has twice placed at this class and distance and from a good draw can settle back and run on into the money again here. (9) ELITE RULES and (1) CONCORD SPARK are others who can have lines drawn through their respective latest runs and can go better today.

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