Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 23)

There are 9 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. The racecourse is open for walk-up attendance. Here are the previews:

Crowds are back

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (8) WILD RUNNER has finished 3rd in both starts so far, both over 1000M. She has run on pleasingly enough on both occasions and the additional trip today may well suit. The main danger looks to be (7) CASH BACK. He stepped up to this distance at start number five last time out and was handy throughout, running on for 3rd. It was a slow race, but he will be expected to be on or close to the pace again and should be in the finish once more. (5) GEUMSEONG HWANHUI is the clear third pick, having significantly improved at his most recent start on March 20th, when he ran 2nd at this distance on a muddy track. A similar run here will see him close. (4) M J TIME and (2) PERMISSION TO WIN should at least both be on pace from favourable gates and could improve.

Selections(8) Wild Runner (7) Cash Back (5) Geumseong Hwanhui (4) M J Time
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

More three-year-old maiden with four of the ten racing for the very first time. We’ll take a chance on one of those first-timers, in the shape of (6) B.J. STORM. He went through two trials, improving in the 2nd of them on April 1st when coming out of gate twelve but getting on pace and running through the line in 2nd place in a fair time. He won’t need to improve too much to win this. The probable favourite is (1) CHANGER. An improved 5th at his latest start at 1200M on a sloppy track on March 26th having led, he went back to trial last Friday and led all the way around, stopping the clock in a fast time. He draws very nicely here to get on pace and so long as he didn’t leave his race in the trial, has every chance. (3) BLUE INDY comes out of the same trial as B.J. Storm, when he settled handy and crossed the line in 3rd. He too can make a bold showing first-up. (9) GYEONGBU DAEGEOM didn’t do too much wrong on debut and while that was back in January, is enough to make him a placing chance here along with (7) TIGER ZONE.

Selections(6) B.J. Storm (1) Changer (3) Blue Indy (9) Gyeongbu Daegeom
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Another set of three-year-old maidens. (11) SONGAM ARCHGIRL beat a couple of these on her way to 4th place at his distance in a fair time on a wet track on March 26th. The draw isn’t exactly in her favour here but that was just her second start and with some natural improvement, she has claims here. (1) MARUMA has run fairly across three starts so far with two 5th place finishes including her latest at 1200M when after breaking well, she settled back before running on. The slight step up in trip should suit and the inside gate should give her options. (9) WELLBEING CHAMPION was one of those beaten by Songam Archgirl last time out but again it wasn’t a bad run, and she has some potential for improvement. (3) LONDON MYEONGGA and (6) MABAWI are others to take into consideration.

Selections(11) Songam Archgirl (1) Maruma (9) Wellbeing Champion (3) London Myeongga
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 11

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

Competitive race. (1) CHEONGSAN GANGHO has good experience at this level and has the joint-fastest time of any of these at the 1700M. He comes in off a solid 3rd place at class and distance on April 2nd, well beaten by a good winner but well clear of 4th. He usually goes back in his races, then runs on and he has as good a chance as any here. Probable favourite is (4) RUNNING NUMBER ONE, based on his last start 2nd at class and distance on March 20th, when he beat two of today’s rivals, having settled back in the field and finished strongly. He too has run good times at this distance and has every chance. (10) BRAVO SOCKS was 3rd in that March 20th race. He is yet to finish in the top two in nineteen attempts but has plenty of minor money finishes and shouldn’t be too far away again. (9) ADELE MUSTANG and the up in class (12) THUNDER HORSE are others to take into account.

Selections(1) Cheongsan Gangho (4) Running Number One (10) Bravo Socks (9) Adele Mustang
Next Best12, 3
Fast Start5, 6, 9, 11
(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 22)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. All betting locations are open as usual with walk-up admission available at the racecourses. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings. (3) JEOKDO JEONSA didn’t beat many home on debut but was much-improved at start number two on March 25th when from the widest gate, he sat back early, improved to just off the lead at the top of the straight, and ran on well for 2nd over this distance in a time significantly faster than any of today’s rivals have managed. He draws a good gate for the first time and won’t need to improve much to win this. (2) TWO TWO BRAIN improved to 4th at her most recent start on April 1st when she came from off the pace. She too draws a good gate for once and may be ridden more forward here and can go close. (11) DOCTOR PENTAGON ran 6th in the same race on April 1st. That was first-up following six months off, and he should come on for the run. (8) NOBLE SPIRIT and (1) PURPLE MANGO among others who can improve.

Selections(3) Jeokdo Jeonsa (2) Two Two Brain (11) Doctor Pentagon (8) Noble Spirit
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

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

(9) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE has improved significantly in his latest two, including a last start 2nd place at 1400M when he was on pace throughout. He does come up a couple of kilos in the weights but if he can maintain his current trajectory, a win is not impossible here. Probable favourite is (8) ADELE STELLA. He has been solid, if unspectacular, across six outings so far, finishing in the top-five on every occasion although he is yet to break into the top-two. His latest two outings have been at a mile, so he is back in trip today and should be close once more. (7) YONGGARI is another who has shown signs of figuring things out recently and enters off a useful 4th over this distance on a sloppy track on March 18th. He tends to go back and run on and will be doing his best work late again here. (11) GREEN SPEED and (4) BAEDARI GANGHO are others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Choegang Mujigae (8) Adele Stella (7) Yonggari (11) Green Speed
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

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

A small field of maiden fillies here and there will be a hot favourite in the shape of (2) QUALITY QUEEN. She comes in off a 3rd place over 1300M on March 25th when she was on pace throughout and from a nice draw and with not much other speed around, she should have a soft run to the lead here and prove far too good. (7) ANNIKA GIRL is probably second-best. She has raced adequately at this distance and steps back in trip following an acceptable 4th place over a mile at her latest start. It’s hard to consider her a winning chance here but she can place. (3) MY PAL beat a couple of these on her way to 6th over 1200M on April 1st. The step up in trip may suit and she aim for a career best finish here. (6) DOCTOR CANDY and (5) NAREUCAT are other placing chances among a limited set of gallopers.

Selections(2) Quality Queen (7) Annika Girl (3) My Pal (6) Doctor Candy
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

It’s hard to go too far past (1) HANEUL GANGJA here. A winner at class 6 level in February, he then ran a good 2nd on his first try at this class over this distance on March 25th when he sat handy and ran on. He does come up in weight from that but from the inside gate, Park Jae-I can pick his spot and they should prove too strong. (11) GREEN CHEETAH got her maiden win at this distance two starts back before running a useful 4th over 1300M on her first class 5 try on April 1st when on pace throughout. The draw is not ideal here, but she remains well weighted, and she should go close. (7) FANTASTIC LOVE remains winless after seven attempts, but she has never finished any worse than 5th. She has a 2nd place at class and distance to her name and while she may find one too quick again, she should be in the money. (8) BLUE CARSON and (4) CHOEGANG CUPID are among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(1) Haneul Gangja (11) Green Cheetah (7) Fantastic Love (8) Blue Carson
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

(3) LOOKING CAT will be the one to beat here. Her solitary victory came over 1400M more than a year ago, but she has been working back up towards another, including her very good 2nd when tried at this trip for the first time on April 10th behind King Grace. She can sit handy or midfield here and may prove too strong. (2) MIDNIGHT QUEEN has good form at the distance and beat a couple of these on her way to 4th place on March 20th. An apprentice being engaged means she carries a very light weight and from a god draw, she should go close. (6) CHEONNYEONUIGUREUM is yet to win in twenty attempts but has had several near-misses and enters with recent form reading well. She tends to get a bit too far back in her races but should be passing plenty late on. (1) NEW CROWN and (7) WONDERFUL SECRET are among others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Looking Cat (2) Midnight Queen (6) Cheonnyeonuigureum (1) New Crown
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Possibly the most open betting race on the card. We’ll take a chance on the lightly raced (8) SANGSEUNG BOY. He is a winner of two from three so far with his latest coming over 1200M at class 5 level, back on February 25th. He is up in class and in distance but there is nothing to suggest that either should be a problem and he has a chance. (6) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI was a front-running winner over 1200M at this level on April 8th. He comes up in trip here, but he has won at this distance at a lower class in the past and while he is up in weights, he should be in the finish again. (7) CROWN KING STAR is another sure to have backers. He was a winner at this class on a sloppy track over 1200M on March 18th and while his previous efforts at this distance haven’t been great, he looks ready for another crack and the handicap conditions treat him well. (2) JATNAMUGIL and (1) ACE SOLOMON are others who look nicely in here.

Selections(8) Sangseung Boy (6) Busanhang Galmaegi (7) Crown King Star (2) Jatnamugil
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 9

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(7) MISS INDIE comes in having won her latest two in fine style. At her latest, she slightly stumbled at the start but used her natural speed to sit behind the leader before powering away. She comes up in class here but has every chance of continuing on her merry way. (10) YEONGGWANGUI TIME is yet to win beyond 1200M, but last time out was a very close 2nd when handy and wide. She draws wide but can overcome that and is worthy of consideration here. (2) DOCTOR FAITH has done most of his recent work at staying distances although he was a good 2nd on a sloppy track at this distance on his most recent appearance on March 18th. He is up in class but likes to race forward and from a good draw should be in this a long way. (3) SUNLIGHT BOY is another front-runner, and while he is down in trip, he has won three times at today’s distance. He is nicely weighted and should go close. (5) ALPHA STAR another to take into account.

Selections(7) Miss Indie (10) Yeonggwangui Time (2) Doctor Faith (3) Sunlight Boy
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 8: Class 2 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 90 Million

(5) DAEAM JANGGUN is a winner of three form six so far with those victories coming in consecutive races last summer and autumn. At his most recent start on February 25th, he beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at class and distance, and he looks very much the one to beat here. (7) ONNURI JILJU was one of those behind Daeam Janggun in that race. He returned to run 3rd, in turn beating a number of today’s opposition, over 1200M on March 20th, and can beat plenty again here. (6) GEUMA PSYCHIC comes up in class following a few too many near-misses at class 3 level. He should be measuring up in this company and will be expected to be on pace from the start. (1) SO MUCH GO and (4) WORLD TODAY are among others to consider for the places.

Selections(5) Daeam Janggun (7) Onnuri Jilju (6) Geuma Psychic (1) So Much Go
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Captain Yankee Swoops To Claim First Leg Of Triple Crown

40/1 chance Captain Yankee swooped late to cut down the favourites and claim the first leg of the 2022 Korean Triple Crown, the KRA Cup Mile (Korean 2000 Guineas) at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Captain Yankee wins the Cup Mile (Pic: KRA)

With the fancied Aspen Taeyang a late scratching due to a hind leg injury, last year’s Champion Juvenile Complete Value was sent off as hot favourite for the 1600M first jewel, ahead of Winner Star, with Man Of The Year and Seungbusa the only other two in single digits in the markets.

When the race began, Beolmaui Star got the best of the start from gate number one and was joined on the early pace by Man Of The Year and Complete Value with Seungbusa looping across from gate ten to join them. Captain Yankee meanwhile sat in midfield as the front-runners set a fair pace.

The lightly raced Beolmaui Star would quickly weaken while Man Of The Year was always wide and never convincing and as the leaders entered the home straight, his challenge faded, leaving Seungbusa and Complete Value up front alone.

At that point it seemed it would be a duel of stamina between Seungbusa and Complete Value; a battle that only Complete Value could win. He did, seeing off Seungbusa with just over a furlong remaining. Victory seemed a formality but that was to reckon without the long-shot Captain Yankee, who began to rally and then close in on the leading two.

Captain Yankee would ultimately come through the gap between Complete Value and Seungbusa and go on to win by a full two-lengths on the line. Complete Value was 2nd with Seungbusa a further length and a quarter back in 3rd. It was a full eight-lengths back to the fourth placegetter, Unju Hero.

Winning jockey Jo In-kwon told in-house broadcaster KRBC that while he was confident in his horse, it wasn’t plain sailing: “I knew the pace would be very fast, but those leaders were so far ahead at one point that I thought that we would end up too far back and he might give up.”

“He hates kickback so I kept him wide and out of the sand and that gave us more to do, but just when I thought it might be too much, he responded so well and gave me his very best.”

Jo In-kwon is widely considered one of Korea’s most accomplished riders, but this was only his second Group winner since being licensed in 2008. It was his first big race win of any kind since 2012, when he was a fresh-faced rookie, about to go away to do his compulsory national service.

Now a grizzled thirty-five-year-old family man, Jo In-kwon admitted that he was nervous as Captain Yankee closed to victory: “I was very excited in the final furlong, but I tried to keep calm and make sure that we made no mistakes.” They did not, although it must be noted the jockey was deservedly – and perhaps leniently – fined half a million Won for his excessive and unnecessary whip use in the closing stages.

On pulling up, Jo sent a personal message to his young children, which was picked up by the on-board microphone he was carrying. “Yes, that was lucky, wasn’t it?” he laughed, referencing how the onboard “jockey cam” in the race was supposed to be carried by Moon Se-young, before Aspen Taeyang was found lame. Jo In-kwon offered to carry the camera, despite being on a 40/1 chance.

Captain Yankee is by Old Fashioned, who stands privately in Korea at Challenger Farm. He is out of Can’t Rezist (by Action This Day) and was bred by Lee Kwang-lim. The Cup Mile was his sixth race start and his fourth career win.

The second leg of the Triple Crown is the Korean Derby over 1800M at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday May 15th.

CUP MILE SUNDAY: SEOUL & BUSAN – RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW (April 17)

The 2022 Triple Crown series gets underway at Busan on Sunday with the running of the KRA Cup Mile – the Korean 2000 Guineas. Click here for a full runner-by-runner guide to the race. The Cup Mile is race 5 on a 6-race card at Busan which runs from 12:00 to to 16:40. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open and walk up attendance is permitted at both Seoul and Busan. Here are the previews:

Heat Yegam won last year’s KRA Cup Mile, which this year returns to its usual April position

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener and (1) SONGAM BEST has two 3rds and a 4th from three starts so far, with one of the 3rd places coming at this distance. From a great draw, she can get a soft run to the lead here and once in front, she may not be caught. (10) COMPLETE JOY improved a little at start number two in a slowly run race over this distance on February 19th. She comes in fresh after two months off and can improve again here. (11) TOP CLASS raced a couple of times last summer and didn’t do too badly. After a couple of setbacks, he came back to trial in March, putting in a decent effort and has every chance of going well first-up today. Debut-maker (8) GANGCHEOL BUDAE came through the same March trial as Top Class. That was his second heat and he looked capable in both. (9) HWANGWOO GANGJA raced twice at the end of last year without distinction but looked much better when trialing up again at the end of March.

Selections(1) Songam Best (10) Complete Joy (11) Top Class (8) Gangcheol Budae
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 9

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

(8) LUCKY INDY was a much-improved 2nd when leading for much of the way around at this distance on March 12th. She is the only one in this field to have a runner-up finish to her name and she also has a 3rd, as well as the fastest time among these for the distance. She should be on pace or handy here and has solid claims. (11) JANGGUN BYEOL also led for a long way at his latest outing on February 20th over 1300M, ultimately finishing 3rd. The draw doesn’t make things easy here, but he should have enough about him to get close to the speed again and can be in this a long way. (1) TROT QUEEN is the big beneficiary of the draw, and she can use it to settle handy to the lead. She too comes in off a good 3rd place at 1300M at her latest start and can build on that here.  (3) MONEY STONE and (5) RALLY QUEEN are others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Lucky Indy (11) Janggun Byeol (1) Trot Queen (3) Money Stone
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 11

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

A small field of fillies and mares. (1) FIRST ROAD is set to be a warm favourite. She was sent off as market leader at her last start over this distance on March 19th, but while she didn’t run badly, she could only manage 4th. She gets a better draw today, carries marginally less weight, and is the one to beat. (7) HAPPY DREAM managed to do just that when finishing 3rd ahead of First Road in that March 19th race. That was her best finish to date and marked the second consecutive race where she has beaten a couple of today’s rivals. She tends to settle back and then run and can be a danger today. (2) TORUK MAKTO was 5th in that same race, marking an uptick in recent form and well-drawn again, she should be on the pace early and make the others go around her. (5) SHINE MUSIC and (8) EOMCHEONGNAN GIRL are other sin at least the placing frame.

Selections(1) First Road (7) Happy Dream (2) Toruk Makto (5) Shine Music
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

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

Having run 2nd in a fast trial, (6) KING BOSS was 4th on debut on March 25th, sitting 3rd or 4th the entire way around. He was favourite that day based on his trial, but should have come on for the experience, and can win here. That will mean overturning the form on (3) FLYING REGAL. He ran 3rd in that race having been handy throughout, continuing the positive start to his career that saw hm get a 2nd and a 4th from his opening two races. A top-three finish will see him promoted to class 5 and from a great gate and with an in-form jockey aboard, he could be going up a winner. There are two debut-makers and (8) MAN OF THE MAN could make an immediate impact. He went through two trials, improving in the second of them when crossing the line 4th in a fast time on a dry track. (4) YEONGCHEON POWER and the other first-timer, (7) GEUMA NIMBLE, who trialed up behind King Boss, others who could sneak some money.

Selections(6) King Boss (3) Flying Regal (8) Man Of The Man (4) Yeongcheon Power
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

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

(12) EUNHYE CHUNGMAN warrants favourite status here, having run 2nd at class and distance in a fast time on a wet track on March 13th. Although it was assisted by the conditions, the time was faster than any of the others have achieved for the distance and given the way she won from off the pace at 1200M last December, the wide draw shouldn’t be too much of an issue and there isn’t a lot of speed here anyway. The main danger hasn’t drawn much better. (11) COOL PRINCESS looks to be working back towards another win having been getting closer in her recent outings, culminating in a runner-up finish in an all-filly race at class and distance on March 20th. Like Eunhye Chungman, the draw shouldn’t stop her from getting forward early. (7) LUXURY KING ran a fair 4th at big odds, on March 19th over 1300M finishing off very well from an unpromising position. That was an uptick on her recent form and a repeat or better isn’t impossible. (8) BLUE HAMMER and (2) COWBOY TANGO are others who can enter the placing calculations.

Selections(12) Eunhye Chungman (11) Cool Princess (7) Luxury King (8) Blue Hammer
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start4, 8, 11, 12

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

A small field of maiden fillies and mares. (3) MAGIC HILL weakened having been handy and then briefly leading at this distance on February 18th but still finished a creditably 6th of fourteen. It was her first race since last June and while she has had another eight weeks off since, she should have come on for it, can get the lead again from a great draw, and this time go all the way. (5) B. K. HANA will be competing for the early lead and the pair should be competing all the way. She hasn’t had the easiest time in her latest two appearances but has a fast time at this distance and this looks the ideal race for her. (1) WONDERFUL TIZ draws a good gate for the first time and with Moon Se-young climbing aboard, will be expected by plenty to improve. (2) WONDERFUL SMARTY and (6) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL are others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Magic Hill (5) B. K. Hana (1) Wonderful Tiz (2) Wonderful Smarty
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7
(more…)

TRIPLE CROWN 1st LEG: KRA CUP MILE – RUNNER-BY-RUNNER PREVIEW

It’s just four months since the delayed 2021 series was completed, but the Triple Crown season is back in Korea this weekend with the KRA Cup Mile – the Korean 2000 Guineas – being run at Busan on Sunday.

Complete Value was Champion Juvenile of 2021 and will be favourite for the KRA Cup Mile (Pic: KRA)

And it’s a thrilling race in prospect with arguably ten of the thirteen runners having legitimate winning claims, and the other three hardly being no-hopers themselves.

Six of the entrants have traveled down from Seoul, including probable favourite Complete Value, last year’s Champion Juvenile. However, it was a Busan filly who won the Luna Stakes (Korean 1000 Guineas) last weekend, and the home side fields a strong line up too.

All races in the Korean Triple Crown Series, which comprises the Cup Mile, the Derby and the Minister’s Cup are restricted to Korean-bred horses. There were two main trial races for the series, the Sports Seoul Trophy, at Seoul, and the Gyeongnam Shinmun Cup at Busan, both run over 1400M.

Sports Seoul Trophy video:

Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy video:

Here’s a full run down of the field:

1. BEOLMAUI STAR [To Honor And Serve – Gaya Gongju (War Zone)] – The wildcard of the field. He won his first two starts with dismissive ease before running 3rd on his third appearance at 1400M, leading most of the way but weakening. That was in January, and he hasn’t raced since although he did win a fast trial in February. He has a great draw to challenge for the lead and a jockey who knows how to win these races, but the mile is a big question.

2. MAN OF THE YEAR [Federalist – Over Speed (Menifee)] – 5th in the Breeders’ Cup but an impressive winner of the Gyeongnam Shinmun Trophy when he settled on the pace but was wide most of the trip before running away for a big win. He also has a 3rd place at 1800M at class 4 level so the trip should not be an issue. He draws well to be on pace or handy and will be one of the favourites.

3. DOUBLE EDGE [Cowboy Cal – Blade’s Edge (Corinthian)] – A winner of just one of six starts but was runner-up to both Aspen Taeyang in the Nonghyup Trophy and Complete Value in the Breeders’ Cup. Also has a 3rd place over 1700M at class 4 level and ran 5th in the Sports Seoul Trophy. He goes back and runs on and has the fastest final furlong average time in the field. He has to overturn form on a lot of these though and a place line is realistic.

4. ASPEN TAEYANG [With Distinction – Aspen Light (Bernardini)] – A high class galloper with three wins from six including the Nonghyup Trophy. Blew the start of the Breeders’ Cup before running on for 4th and was then 3rd in the Sports Seoul Cup when handy all the way and running on late. First time further than 1400M but that should not be a problem. Moon Se-young aboard will tempt plenty and he will probably start second or third favourite. On pace and in this a long way.

5. COMPLETE VALUE [Girolamo – Ft. Sduction (Ft. Stockton)] – The winner of the Breeders’ Cup to be crowned champion juvenile of last year and unbeaten until his latest start when 2nd in the Sports Seoul Trophy to Seungbusa. He was first-up that day off an eight-week break and raced keenly and a little wide, making up plenty of ground late. Expect progress from that, the mile should suit, and he is hard to hold out here if at his best.

6. CAPTAIN YANKEE [Old Fashioned – Can’t Rezist (Action This Day)] – Won two of his first three but came to light with a solid 2nd in the Gyeongnam Shinmun when after taking a bump at the start, he settled on the pace and was strong in the straight. That was his first run at further than 1300M and he should have derived much benefit. Expect similar tactics here and he could provide some each-way interest at probable big odds.

7. BYEOLUI SUNGAN [Menifee – Free Release (Dixie Union)] – A winner up to 1400M at class 5 level, he ran a solid 4th in the Sports Seoul when from a wide draw, he settled back and then ran on well.  That is perhaps the strategy that will be employed here as well as he does have some speed on his inside, and he can run on well. Not among the top line of favourites but could run into the minor money.

8. WINNER STAR [Concord Point – Jangguneui Huye (Gaeseon Janggun)] – He ran 3rd behind Complete Value and Double Edge in the Breeders’ Cup when coming from well off the pace before stepping up to take two spins around 1800M at class 4 level, finishing 2nd in the first of them and winning the latest when settling handy and running on. He may be more a Derby horse, but he has run a good time when 3rd at this distance too and is a serious contender.

9. BEOMI NARYEO ONDA [Take Charge Indy – To Live Fore (Pass Rush)] – Of the four horses here who have tackled a mile before, he has the fastest time among them, recorded when 2nd to Old Cheonha at class 5 level in January. He does have plenty of form to overturn here though having only beaten one home in the Breeders’ Cup and then 3rd in the Gyeongnam Shinmun when he sat midfield and ran on. Jockey has won this race three times, but a place line seems most realistic.

10. SEUNGBUSA [Mischieviously – T P Mc G (Flatter)] – The form horse of the race, he didn’t run in the Breeders’ Cup but has won his latest three in fine style, including the Sports Seoul when he made all and never looked like being caught. He is a front-runner and while he draws wide, he should have enough speed to get to the front. The mile is going to be the big question though. Will be among the favourites.

11. P N S HAENGBOK [Colors Flying – Haengbok Cheonsa (Menifee)] – Just the one win from five starts so far and that was over 1200M at class 6 level when he sat handy and ran on. He has enterprising owners, and with a spot available, takes his chance. This is going to be a big ask though and he is likely to be the longest shot on the board. He’ll settle midfield or back and see what happens.

12. MONGTTANG [To Honor And Serve – Miss Stravinsky (Stravinsky)] – The sole representative of trainer Kim Young-kwan, who has won the race four times, he blundered in the Breeders’ Cup and finished well back, but was a solid 4th in the Gyeongnam Shinmun. He does have a 3rd place at class 4 level over a mile and a good run is possible, but the jockey/trainer connection may make his local odds shorter than they should be and it is a hard ask from gate twelve.

13. UNJU HERO [Cowboy Cal – Black Ruby (War Zone)] – The only horse in the race to have won at this distance, he did that at his latest start at class 5 level on March 27th when he settled midfield and steadily improved, taking a narrow victory. He is in much better company today though and accordingly will find it much harder. From the wide draw, his best hope is perhaps to drop back and look to run on, but he will need improvement.

Selections: (5) Complete Value (8) Winner Star (2) Man Of The Year (6) Captain Yankee

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 16)

The Cherry Blossom season comes to its conclusion at Seoul Racecourse this weekend. There are 9 races on Saturday form 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open and it is now possible to buy non-reserved tickets on the gate. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. There will be a hot favourite and it is indeed hard to look past (10) TIZ SUCCESS. Having won a trial in a good time, she ran 2nd on debut, well beaten by Meni Spear, on a sloppy track on March 13th. It was a good start and with some natural improvement for that run, she should be very hard to beat here. (9) CHAPEL PRINCESS was a bit slower on her debut on March 19th but ran pleasingly enough for 4th having settled handy. She too should be better for the experience and can get closer. There are three debut-makers. Of them, (3) MADISON MUSIC and (5) WONDERFUL MUSIC have the same owner but different trainers, and they recorded identical times when both finishing in 2nd place in their respective trials a week apart. Both have every chance of going well in this modest company. Of the others with experience, (2) RAY BOLT is perhaps the most likely to improve.

Selections(10) Tiz Success (9) Chapel Princess (3) Masidon Music (5) Wonderful Music
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

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

Tricky maiden here. (1) NAMSAN HORANGI races for the first time since January having finished in 5th place in all three of his starts so far. He has finished off his races adequately. Comes up slightly in distance and gets a very good draw. Today can be his day. (4) GEONGONILCHEOK enters off a good 3rd at 1200M on March 20th when he was ridden midfield early and finished off well. He looks nicely in here and with Antonio climbing aboard can be in the finish again. (3) RESERVED JOHN has put in two fair performances for 3rd and 4th, the latter of which was at this trip on March 12th. At his first start he went right to the back before finishing off very well but was ridden handy on reappearance and from the same gate, that will probably be the tactic again today. (9) THE FAVORITE has four top-four finishes from five starts so far. She steps up to this trip for the first time and it can suit. (8) G STAR has tended to get a bit far back in his races but has a decent turn of foot and may run into some money.

Selections(1) Namsan Horangi (4) Geongonilcheok (3) Reserved John (9) The Favorite
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 9

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

A wide-open maiden here. (7) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE’s only bad run to date did come on her only previous try at the distance but other than that she has been consistent. In this race, where there isn’t much early speed, she should be able to get a prominent position and she has shown she can finish races off well. She has as good a chance as any here. (2) EPIPHANY has steadily improved across his latest few starts, culminating in a career-best 2nd place at his latest outing on March 19th. That was at 1700M so he comes back sharply in trip today, but he draws nicely and can go close. (9) NANA LAND showed signs of figuring things out at what was start number four on April 3rd at 1200M when settled midfield and then ran on for a close 2nd. That was the first time she didn’t get too far back in a race and while today’s draw is not as good, if she can get away well, she isn’t without a chance. (6) POSA POSA and (1) CINDERELLA are others with money claims.

Selections(7) Neoreul Eungwonhae (2) Epiphany (9) Nana Land (6) Posa Posa
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 11

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

(3) SAENAE POWERFUL gained his sole win to date at this distance at class 6 level three starts back and comes in having run 2nd at this class over 1200M on March 12th when settling midfield and running on for a narrow defeat. He comes up 2kg in the weights today but that’s balanced by a much better gate, and he has every chance of going one better today. (10) BARAMGWA HAMKKE remains a maiden following ten attempts but at his latest start overcame gate fourteen to run a very good 3rd over 1400M. He is down in the weights on that run and can settle back and challenge late on here. (9) RAON THE PEARL comes up in class and slightly in trip, having recorded her maiden win at start number three on March 5th. She can settle midfield here and should measure up at this level. (11) DREAM SPEED and (6) KING CRUSH are both also up in class following last start maiden wins and neither should be too far away.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 15)

This weekend sees the first leg of the 2022 Korean Triple Crown with the running on the KRA Cup Mile at Busan on Sunday. We’ll have plenty more on the big race over the next couple of days but in the meantime, the weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card 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 open proceedings. (3) GOLD SWEET improved at start number two running 2nd at this distance on March 11th when handy throughout. There looks to be more to come and with some further improvement, she can win this. The favourite will probably be (2) SEOBU TEUKGEUP. She was a good 4th on debut at this distance on March 18th in a fast, although wet track assisted, time. From a great draw expect here to be on pace or handy and she will be in this a long way. There are three first time starters and among them, (9) RED QUEEN looked well when 2nd in a trial in a fast time. It was in the slop so not too much should read into it, but if she can bring that form to the races, she won’t be far away. (5) FANTASTIC YEOGEOL and (8) WONDERFUL CUTIE are others to consider.

Selections(3) Gold Sweet (2) Seobu Teukgeup (9) Red Queen (5) Fantastic Yeogeol
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

More three-year-old maidens. It’s hard to look too far past (1) WONDERFUL FILE. She has shown improvement across her four starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place at her latest at this distance on March 25th when coming from off the pace. From the inside gate, Choi Si-dae can pick his spot and he should be too good. Nothing else here has a top-three finish to their names yet. That’s going to change for a couple and (6) STAR CATCH looks a contender. She improved at start number two when 6th at this distance in a fair time on a sloppy track. She does come up in the weights with no apprentice allowance here but looks to have the potential to get better. (5) MAGIC WHISPER raced once last summer without distinction and was then put away until this year. He won a January trial before running fairly for a midfield finish first-up on February 18th and should come on for that here. (4) WIN STING and (3) SPECIAL FACT other potential improvers.

Selections(1) Wonderful File (6) Star Catch (5) Magic Whisper (4) Win Sting
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A few of these looked like they are finally figuring things out at their respective latest starts, but it is hard to have very strong opinions on any. (9) GLOBAL CHOEGO is probably the favourite. He has steadily improved across his eight starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish in a fair time at 1200M on March 27th. Kim Hye-sun climbs aboard, and he won’t need to get much better to win this. (4) BLUE CAPTAIN has mixed his form across seven outings so far. He draws well today, should be on pace and can go close. (7) WONDERFUL BOBCAT comes in off a 3rd place at his latest start when he was returning from almost a year out. He should have come on for that run and can be a danger here. (5) WONDERFUL REALTY and (10) QUEEN’S DAERO are others to consider.

Selections(9) Global Choego (4) Blue Captain (7) Wonderful Bobcat (5) Wonderful Realty
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 10

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

He might not have finished in the top two in any of sixteen starts so far, but (8) MAJOR FORCE is favoured to get off the mark here. His recent form reads well, and he comes in having run a good 3rd at this distance in a good time on March 25th and a similar run here can see him home on top. (3) JIN MARK is another who has been knocking at the door for some time without having made the breakthrough. He too has been consistent in recent starts, has recorded good times at this distance, and can go close again here. It’s similar with (9) STATICE, who at least does have a 2nd place finish to her name. She comes back up in trip but can settle midfield or further back and then run on strong to find some money here. (4) VIEW AMAZING and (5) HAEUNDAE BLUE others not without chances in this limited company.

Selections(8) Major Force (3) Jin Mark (9) Statice (4) View Amazing
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

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

A competitive race but (10) GOOD STAR looks ready to win again. His sole victory was all the way back on debut, but he has recently put in some solid efforts at this class over 1400M and the mile. He tends to go back in his races and then run on so the wide draw isn’t a concern, and he can win this. (5) GRAND CHUKJE comes up in class after too many near-misses. He has a lot of experience at this distance and will be sure to be running on late. The jockey booking catches the eye, and he is not to be discounted. (7) STORM BROWN is another non-winner, but he is established at this level with a 2nd place at this distance two starts back. He can sit handy early here and be in this a long way. (11) YEONSEUNG BRAVO and (4) SUSO POWER are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(10) Good Star (5) Grand Chukje (7) Storm Brown (11) Yeonseung Bravo
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 12

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(8) DONGBU WORLD comes up in class following a 4th and then back-to-back 2nd places in three starts at class 6 level. The class rise is balanced by a weight drop and he has every chance of measuring up in this kind of company. (12) A ONE PLUS is a prolific runner-up, having finished in that position on no fewer then five occasions. He was a touch disappointing when beaten by a couple of these at his latest start three weeks ago, but he has fair claims to get back in the money. (1) YOUNG BOSS is up in class following his maiden win at start number six on March 18th when he sat handy early before taking command on a sloppy surface over 1300M. Nicely drawn on this inside, he should be in this again. (11) ADELE CHUKBAE and (6) SEOBU QUEEN are among others to take into account.

Selections(8) Dongbu World (12) A One Plus (1) Young Boss (11) Adele Chukbae
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

A winner of three of his last five, (2) SPEED MATCH has been sent off as an odds-on favourite in all of his last four starts and may well be again here. He races for the first time since January, when he was 3rd over 1400M on what was his first try at this class and he drops back to this trip for the first time in a year, so there are a couple of question marks, but he should be too good. (4) WORLD SOCKS is up in class following a pair of runner-up finishes at class 6 level, both times from on the pace. He draws well to get forward here and can be competitive in this company. (9) NEU DAT enters off a good class and distance 2nd on MARCH 6th when he led almost the entire way around.  The draw isn’t great here but in this small field shouldn’t matter too much and he can go close again. (8) MUJEOK BULPAE and (1) JANGSAN BOBBY others in the frame.

Selections(2) Speed Match (4) World Socks (9) Neu Dat (8) Mujeok Bulpae
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 8: Class 1 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 110 Million

(5) BARBARIAN will be hot favourite to return to the winner’s circle here. He won back-to-back races at class 1 level, including at this distance, before running 2nd to the excellent Yeongung Louis over 1400M at his latest start on March 27th. He does come up in the weights, but he should have too much ability for this field. (3) GOOD CASTING carries even more but he is ultra-consistent and from a nice gate can find a good position to launch his challenge. He finished runner-up to Barbarian at 1400M two starts back and can challenge him again. (4) HUNCH races for the first time this year, having rounded out his four-year-old campaign with two tricky races in the KRA Cup Classic and Grand Prix. He comes back in trip here and while this may be a pipe-opener, don’t rule him out. (9) KING OF THE MATCH jumps two classes to take his chance here. That gives him a featherweight to carry and serious claims. (2) MACH TITAN among others with placing hopes.

Selections(5) Barbarian (3) Good Casting (4) Hunch (9) King Of The Match
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

Golden Power Claims First Leg Of Filly Triple Crown

Golden Power swept home late to snare the Luna Stakes by the finest of margins at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon to claim the first jewel in the Filly Triple Crown.

Golden Power was sent off as the third-favourite and for much of the race it looked as though it would be a straight battle between the two fillies at the top of the market, Raon The Spurt and Chamjoeun Chingu. The Seoul pair set the pace and having shaken off the attentions of Wonderful Raise with a furlong and a half to go of the mile-long test, looked set to duel to the finish.

At this point, Golden Power was still a full ten-lengths adrift but, under Choi Si-dae, once she found clear track in front of them, she accelerated rapidly. It still looked as though she would run out of track but, in a desperately close finish, Golden Power swept by as the three hit the line together. The resulting photo-finish showed that Golden Power had prevailed by a nose over Chamjoeun Chingu with Raon The Spurt a half-length back in 3rd.

Winning jockey Choi Si-dae told in-house broadcaster KRBC that while he always intended to be patient and then launch his challenge late, it almost didn’t come off. “My plan was to overtake from behind but the pace of the front two was a bit faster than I expected and it was difficult for Golden Power to keep up.”

Once Golden Power hit her stride though, Choi had no doubts. “Once we got out, the horse ran really well. Fifty metres from the line I knew we were going to get there and as soon as we passed the line, I knew we had won.”

While two of the three legs off the filly Triple Crown are held at Busan, Choi Si-dae noted that it is a division that has been dominated by Seoul over the past couple of years. “I feel a little bit sorry for Moon Se-young (beaten jockey on Chamjoeun Chingu) as it was a good race, but Busan fillies have been a little inferior to those from Seoul recently, so I am really happy with this and look forward to more.”

Golden Power is trained by Kwon Sung-ju and is owned by Son Boing-chul, who is also her breeder and through Winner’s Farm, is owner of both her sire and dam. Golden Power is by Afleet Express, who stands at Winner’s Farm, and is out of Cherokee Sheik (by Cherokee Run). Golden Power is her second Korean born foal. She produced two in the United States.

The second leg of the filly Triple Crown is the Korean Oaks, also at Busan, on Sunday May 8th over 1800M, before the series concludes with the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup at Seoul over 2000M on Sunday June 4th. This coming weekend, the colts kick off their Triple Crown at Busan with the KRA Cup Mile.

Luna Stakes Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (April 10)

The Filly Triple Crown gets underway on Sunday at Busan as fourteen – seven from the south-coast and seven from Seoul – line up over a mile in the Luna Stakes. There are 6 races at Busan from 12:00 to 16:40 and 11 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

A small field of three-year-old maidens with three of the eight racing for the first time. (3) FUN CRAZY is set to be a warm favourite. After an inauspicious debut over 1300M, he significantly improved at start number two at this distance on February 27th, when settling back in the field and running on strongly for 2nd. In this field, he should have too much. It took (6) TWOTWO KITTEN three trials to qualify but when she did, she did it in style, winning a March heat on a wet track in fine fashion, sitting handy and running through the line well. That should see her in good fitness for her racecourse debut and ready for a bold showing. (5) SONGAM DRAGON was also a trial winner last month and she too can make an impression first-up in this company. Returning to those with prior experience, (4) GLOBAL PRIME and (8) NAMSAN MUJEOK can improve.

Selections(3) Fun Crazy (6) Twotwo Kitten (5) Songam Dragon (4) Global Prime
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

Another small field and another warm favourite, this time (3) USEUNG BARAM. He has a 2nd and a 3rd from two starts to date, over 1000M and 1200M. He has settled in midfield and run on both times and from a friendly barrier, should make it third time lucky today. We’ll give another chance to (5) JEONGMUN JILJU. He got a long way back on debut but did run on to finish 9th of fourteen. Prior to that he won a trial in good order and with a better start today can get much closer. (7) SINHAN TEUKSONG ran on fairly for 4th on her debut on February 27th. She was a long way behind a good winner but should have come on for that experience and with some natural improvement can be in this. (6) CAMP SAVER and (1) FLYING GOLD others who could have placing claims.

Selections(3) Useung Baram (5) Jeongmun Jilju (7) Sinhan Teukseong (6) Camp Saver
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

(10) P N S CHANCE overcame the widest gate at her latest start on March 20th, to sit just off the speed and then run on for 2nd place behind Concorde Queen. Kim Yong-geun, who rode her that day, remains on board and this filly, who is out of a Korean Oaks winner, can make her breakthrough here. (8) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER has shown improvement since being stepped up to this trip, with a 4th and a 5th from two attempts at it. On her latest start, she led from gate eleven until mid-stretch, ultimately not losing by a huge amount. She should be on or close to the pace again and can go close. (7) ACE PLAN has a runner-up finish to his name over 1200M. He too should be on pace here and is at least in the placing hunt. (4) TIFFANY BLUE and (3) RAON THE WILD, have both hinted at ability and should be competing for at least the minor money.

Selections(10) P N S Chance (8) Hampyeong Fighter (7) Ace Plan (4) Tiffany Blue
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 10

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

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings on the south coast. It’s competitive but we’ll tentatively side with (3) SOUTHERN KING, who ran a good 2nd at this trip when settling forward for the first time on March 13th. He draws even more favourably here and won’t need to improve too much to win. (5) BAEK GU looks the primary danger. She beat three of these on his way to 2nd place over 1200M on March 11th when settling handy to the lead and running on well. That was her best finish in five starts to date but she has only missed out on the top five once, and she has solid claims here. (7) ADELE ALLIE’S ran 4th behind Baek Gu in tat March race. That was just his second start and showed significant improvement from his debut. If he can maintain that trajectory, there could be more development here. The solitary debut-maker (2) YASAENGHWA trialed up pleasingly, settling back and running on and this seems a suitable first race for her to make an impression in. (9) MEOTJIN HARU another who can progress.

Selections(3) Southern King (5) Baek Gu (7) Adele Allie’s (2) Yasaenghwa
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

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

Fillies (and one mare) and a lot of last starts are going to need to be forgiven here, including that of the pick and probable favourite (11) BARO QUEEN. She was sent off as favourite two weeks ago but on a very wet track while she was quickly into the lead, she just as quickly faded. We will instead go on her two starts leading up to that when she ran 3rd on both occasions. She has a good start, last time aside, generally finishes off her races, and she is worth another chance here. (7) KKANGDORI looks logical second pick. While she too only managed 7th at her latest start, she did at least beat a couple of today’s rivals and at the start before she ran well for 2nd at 1300M. She will be on pace here and will be in this a long way. (2) LUXURY GOLD was one of those beaten by Kkandori last time out but from a great draw, can get an easier trip today and be competitive. (8) PRINCESS DAY and (5) GEUMGUKHWA others who can go close.

Selections(11) Baro Queen (7) Kkangdori (2) Luxury Gold (8) Princess Day
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

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

(11) INDIE MAGIC comes in here having run 3rd at his latest start on March 20th, when from the same gate as today, he got to a handy position, and then ran on well, in the process recording a time more than a second faster than any of today’s have managed at the distance. A similar run here will see him home on top.  (7) DOCTOR TANGO is yet to finish in the top three but enters off a solid 4th over 1300M when settling back and running on strong. The time was fair, and, in this company, she can be aiming to match or better. (10) CHONGAL CHARM races for the first time since bearing Doctor Tango as the pair ran 4th and 5th at this distance on March 11th. That was just his second start and with some natural improvement he too should be in this a long way. (9) NAREUCAT and (4) GOLDEN BROOM are others in the frame.

Selections(11) Indie Magic (7) Doctor Tango (10) Chongal Charm (9) Nareucat
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 10, 11
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 9)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open but attendance should be pre-booked though the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

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

A small field of maidens line up in the opener with four of the eight racing for the very first time. (3) BLOOD MOON significantly improved on her third start, coming home in 3rd place at this trip on March 13th. While the time was good, it was assisted by the wet track, but she won’t need to go much better to win this. Two of the first timers enter having won their respective trials in identical times. (4) KINGS EYE and (6) GOLDEN HONOR both sat back in their heats before working through the line well and this looks a very suitable first assignment for both, (8) PURPLE STORM has gone quite far in his two races so far but has finished off well enough to run 5th and 6th. Once again, he draws the widest gate but in this smaller field, it should be less of a concern, and he can improve. (5) HERA BLADE another who has hinted at ability and can aim for some money.

Selections(3) Blood Moon (4) Kings Eye (6) Golden Honor (8) Purple Storm
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

(7) TOUCH NINE registered his best finish on debut last November when 3rd over 1000M. Most recently he ran 4th in a small field at this distance having led for much of the race. Today he can sit handy and run on and in this modest company has every chance of a maiden win. (8) FAMILY CAPTAIN overcame a wide draw to finish a career-best 2nd at this distance on a sloppy track on March 13th. He goes back up a bit in the weights without an apprentice aboard, but that was an encouraging performance, and a similar showing today will have him right in this. (2) ORGALIM has five top-five finishes from seven starts. He draws well to be on pace here and will be in this a long way. (5) BLACK KING and (3) TIZ FIGHTING are among others with the potential to improve and challenge for the places.

Selections(7) Touch Nine (8) Family Captain (2) Orgalim (5) Black King
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 8

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

Tricky race this. On the grounds that he perhaps has better potential for improvement, we’ll side with (5) APPLE MINT, who will be the likely favourite having run 3rd over this distance on his latest start on March 13th when handy throughout and registering a time faster than any of today’s rivals have achieved. He draws a good gate and won’t need to go much better to win. (8) CLOUTER comes back in trip following back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1700M. Those were his best finishes from sixteen starts and he was ridden much more forward than he had been in previous outings. Another career-best finish is possible here. (1) DIVINE POWER actually beat Apple Mint when they raced over 1700M three starts back. He has since finished twice behind Clouter but comes back to a distance at which he has posted a good time and from the inside gate can be considered. Another back in trip following a pair of decent efforts at 1700M, including a runner-up finish, is (7) COUNTRY ROAD, and he along with the returning (3) SWEET JUICE BAR, who races for the first time in almost a year, are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(5) Apple Mint (8) Clouter (1) Divine Power (7) Country Road
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

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

Fillies and mares only here. (7) SUNNY BLADE got her maiden win two starts back over 1200 at class 6 level before running 5th on her first try at this level over 1300M on February 20th. She was handy throughout and while there was a good winner that day, Sunny Blade was only half a length behind 2nd. She should be close to the pace here again and, stretching out to 1400M for the first time, has solid claims. It’s been a while since (3) FORT SEUONE’s solitary win but at this level she regularly picks up a cheque. She too comes up to this distance for the first time and she too has every chance. (9) CHEONGDAM WICKED is two starts into a comeback following eight months out. She has previously run well at this trip and third-up today could be coming back to peak fitness. (1) CHEONSA PARK and (12) CUPID WONDER are others who can be in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Sunny Blade (3) Fort Seuone (9) Cheongdam Wicked (1) Cheonsa Park
Next Best12, 5
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 12
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