Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 8)

The capital’s racing year kicks off on Saturday with 9 races from 10:45 to 1800. Betting locations are open but attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens to get the card underway with nine of the twelve racing for the very first time. We’ll side with experience and (11) K N TIZWON who, after a promising trial, ran 4th on debut back on November 20th. While the time wasn’t fast, he should have come on for the experience and despite the wide draw, he can win this. The main danger – and possible favourite – is one of the first timers. (7) BEST TORCH trialed up all the way back in September but trialed up well and while it has taken some time to get her to the races, she looks capable of going well first-up. (3) BE FLOWER also trialed well, in her case in December. She draws nicely here and under a light weight should be in the mix. (10) CONCORD SPARK similarly hinted at ability in her heat. Returning to those with prior experience, (1) HUMMING BIRD is perhaps the most likely to improve.

Selections(11) K N Tizwon (7) Best Torch (3) Be Flower (10) Concord Spark
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

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

(6) COMPLETE LUCKY has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at his latest outing in November when handy all the way around. He stretches out to 1200M for the first time, should be on pace from the start, and is the one to beat. (9) RAON THE DASH ran 3rd behind Complete Lucky at what for both was their latest outings. For her two that was an improvement, and she can maintain her progress here. (8) GEOLJAK DREAM ran on well for 3rd place over 1000M on December 5th. She too steps up in trip for the first time and looks firmly in the hunt. (10) EUNHYE SERVE put in two consistent runs for 4th and 2nd over 1000M and while the draw is a little wide here, she should be competitive. (11) P N S HER hasn’t impressed in her latest two but ran well in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup three starts back so there is evidently some ability there.

Selections(6) Complete Lucky (9) Raon The Dash (8) Geoljak Dream (10) Eunhye Serve
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(8) DOUBLE TAKE is yet to finish in the top two from nine attempts but has five top-five finishes, including in each of her latest four. She has generally come from off the pace and worked home well, including last time at 1300M and it is possible the extended trip today can work in her favour. It certainly seemed to suit (5) BUL HWASAN as he recorded his best finish to date when 4th at it on December 5th. He should have benefited from that and can be a danger here. (9) THUNDER HORSE also has a 4th place to his name over this distance which he achieved three starts back. He has maintained his consistent run of form since then with two subsequent 4th places at shorter and he should be challenging for a place here. (11) POSA POSA and (7) LAGERTHA are others in the frame.

Selections(8) Double Take (5) Bul Hwasan (9) Thunder Horse (11) Posa Posa
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 11

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

Tricky one with a big field. (7) HI HI has finished in the top-three in six of eight starts so far and has the fastest time among any of these for the distance. He was only 6th at his latest start but the margins weren’t huge, and he has every chance here. (10) REAL PACK comes in following two very solid performances over 1400M, the latter when 4th at this class. He comes back in trip today and could well have a say in the finish here. (3) OLD SPECIAL took a couple of races to get to grips with this level but enters in consistent form. He draws well here and should be in this a long way. (9) FORT SEUONE hinted at a return to form with 4th place in a decent time at class and distance a month ago and can be a danger here. Similarly, (2) RAON THE TIGER has mixed his form of late but Moon Se-young climbing aboard will make punters take note.

Selections(7) Hi HI (10) Real Pack (3) Old Special (9) Fort Seuone
Next Best2, 13
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

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

A very competitive race with plenty of potential winners. We’ll take a chance on (10) FAST TRACK, who comes up in class following his maiden win at start number four over this distance on December 4th when he sat handy before running away to score comfortably. This is harder but he drew wide that day as well and he looks to have potential for more. (5) MEOTJIN GIROK also comes up in class following his maiden win which came when he made all over 1200M. He tackles this trip for the first time but has a great draw and can be expected to lead again. (8) K N MENIQUEEN can be expected to improve on her first-up run on December 5th when she was never a factor. She has plenty of ability and can aim to place here. (9) OLD BLADE and (3) SONGAM CAT are among others who can go close.

Selections(10) Fast Track (5) Meotjin Girok (8) K N Meniqueen (9) Old Blade
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 12

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

(9) KING ACE has put in three very consistent runs since returning from nine months off, all of them at class and distance, in good times and finishing close. He is not the best of starters but can sit handy or go back and run on and he could well be peaking here. A winner of two from five so far, (10) LUMINOUS QUEEN comes up in class after scoring over 1300M on November 27th when sitting handy and then running on. It’s her first time over this trip but and she draws a little wide, but she should measure up in this company. So too should (6) YELLOW CAT. She’s won two in a row to be rapidly promoted to this class, but she made all to win at this distance in a fast time at class 5 level at her latest outing and from a good draw and under a light weight, she will be in this. (8) GANGSEO PRINCESS and (1) GEOSEN DOLPUNG are others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) King Ace (10) Luminous Queen (6) Yellow Cat (8) Gangseo Princess
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(2) CHEONJI ULLIM is set to be a warm favourite here. He was a good winner over 1400M at class 5 level two starts back before going down to a very narrow defeat on his first crack at this class on December 4th. He ran fairly for 4th on his only previous try at this distance, draws well and despite coming up in the weights, he is the one to beat. (11) SPEEDY ROOKIE is the logical second choice. He is yet to win but has six top-three finishes and enters on a consistent run of form at class and distance. He carries plenty of weight, but it would be no surprise to see him there or thereabouts again. (9) ELITE LINE is a class and distance winner as recently as October. He was a touch disappointing at his latest start but trialed well on Christmas Eve and should be in the hunt here. (10) CHOEGO RACE and (8) BRAVO SOCKS among others with at least placing chances.

Selections(2) Cheonji Ullim (11) Speedy Rookie (9) Elite Line (10) Choego Race
Next Best8, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 10

Seoul Race 8: Class 2 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(2) MIGHTY SOO returned from six months out to run a fair 5th over 1400M at this class in November. Before the layoff, he had run well at both class and distance and has beaten plenty of today’s rivals. He should have come on for that last run draws well and has every chance. Big danger and possible favourite is (12) HEUNGROK DAEBU. He is a winner of two from his last three including and all the way score over this distance on December 5th at class 3 level. This is undoubtedly harder, and the draw is not kind, but he comes down significantly in the weights and should go close. (8) MUNHAK KING is a two-time winner over this distance at class 3 level and comes in here having beaten plenty of these on his way to 2nd place at this class and distance on December 4th. He carries the same weight today, Munro climbs aboard, and there is plenty to like. (4) JOUINIGA was 4th in that same race and can aim to match that here while (3) BLUE CHITON is another in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Mighty Soo (12) Heungrok Daebu (8) Munhak King (4) Jouniga
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start9, 10, 11, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Big field to round out the day and (1) MENI CHAMP probably warrants favourite status based on his 2nd place in a fast time over class and distance on December 5th with a few of these behind him. He gets a great draw on this inside and can potentially go all the way here. (4) MAX RUN comes up in class but significantly down in weight having won two of her latest three. She has been posting consistently fast times and has every chance of measuring up in this company. Draw a line through the latest effort from (3) ROCKUI JEWANG when he was first-up for six months over 1800M. Today may suit better and he has undoubted ability. (10) DREAM PO RE comes in with recent form reading well and along with (2) MIREU STORM is another with placing hopes.

Selections(1) Meni Champ (4) Max Run (3) Rockui Jewang (10) Dream Po Re
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 11, 12, 13

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 7)

The 2022 racing season gets underway at Busan on Friday with an eight-race card from 12:00 to 18:00. All betting locations are opened but advance reservations must be made through the My Card app. Here are the previews:

Busan hosts the first fixture of 2022

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The new year begins with eight three-year-old filly maidens tackling the five-furlongs with four of them racing for the first time. We’ll need to draw a line through the latest effort from (4) HANEUL MISO when she was well positioned but offered little in the stretch, and instead go with what we know she is capable of from two starts back when a close 2nd. She draws well and, in this company, has every chance. (2) HWARANG BRAVO has run adequately in two starts so far. She gets a better gate in this small field today and with a top jockey on, should go closer. A couple of the first timers did well enough in their trials. (5) JEONGDEUN-RO broke well and was on pace and while she was passed by a few, she wasn’t asked for too much effort and ran on well. (6) HWARANG SKY and (7) KF ONE similarly showed promise.

Selections(4) Haneul Miso (2) Hwarang Bravo (5) Jeongdeun-Ro (6) Hwarang Sky
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

(6) JUMAL BOBAE has a 4th and a 2nd in two starts so far, the latest of which was at this distance on November 28th when he came from off the pace to run on strong. With some natural improvement and in this modest company, he can go one better today. (1) DAEHO NURI had a poor day at the office at is latest start when slowly away but if we go on his run two starts back when from a good draw, he got on pace and ran on for 5th, he can be considered for a place here. (8) UNJU BULPAE showed improvement at start number three last time out and cam maintain that positive trajectory here, while (10) SEONGSIL CHOEGO can improve on his 6th place on debut over 1000M. Debut-maker (5) I AM CHARTERED performed well enough in a November trial to suggest he can be competitive first-up.

Selections(6) Jumal Bobae (1) Daeho Nuri (8) Unju Bulpae (10) Seongsil Choego
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

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

A weak maiden here and it won’t take much improvement from any of them to win. We’ll take a chance on (2) GOSUUI POWER, who returned from over six months off to run 7th of fourteen when drawn wide over 1200M on December 5th. Before the layoff he had shown ability and should have come on for that run. He has a better draw today and this may suit. (8) SENSATION PARTY was a much-improved 3rd when stepped up to this trip on December 3rd. She led for much of the way around that day and while the time wasn’t fast, she looks nicely in here and can go close again. (5) YOUNG BOSS similarly improved at his latest effort in December when 4th at 1300M and from a decent draw can be on pace here and in the hunt. (12) STATICE ran a good 2nd over 1300M on December 12th and after fifteen starts looks close to finally figuring things out. (1) A ONCE another in the frame.

Selections(2) Gosuui Power (8) Sensation Party (5) Young Boss (12) Statice
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(9) SEONGSIL SONYEO has been knocking at the door for a while. She comes in following a solid 4th place over 1400M and has the fastest time among these at this distance by some margin. Her running style means the draw shouldn’t matter and she could well win this. The question is whether after seventeen attempts, there is any improvement there. (7) ADELE STELLA has run 5th in both starts so far over 1000M and 1200M, both times running on well. He looks like he needs a bot of distance and gets a chance to prove it here. (4) HIT RUNNER was an on pace and improved 4th over 1400M at start number three on December 10th. He draws well to lead again and can go close. (10) GRAND CHUKJE and (2) HAEUNDAE BLUE among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(9) Seongsil Sonyeo (7) Adele Stella (4) Hit Runner (10) Grand Chukje
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

Big and competitive field here. (4) CATCH THE VICTORY returned from four months out to run 2nd at class and distance on December 10th. He comes up a couple of kilos in the weights but draws very well and could be the one to beat here. (1) MIND ZONE pulled off a super gate to wire victory at start number three over 1000M on December 5th. He comes up in class and in trip here but from the inside gate a big performance can’t be ruled out again. (14) COLORFUL WIND pretty much made all on debut over 1000M having previously won a trial too. She is the big loser from the draw but if she can find a decent position then she looks to have plenty of potential and should be in the finish again. (9) WONDERFUL JAZZ and the up in class (8) HOT PLAY are among several others with strong placing chances.

Selections(4) Catch The Victory (1) Mind Zone (14) Colorful Wind (9) Wonderful Jazz
Next Best8, 13
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 8

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Another big field, this time fillies and mares only and it is very competitive. We’ll take a chance on (3) BANJIUI GIJEOK. True on her first try at this distance last time she got beaten by three of today’s rivals, but she has a runner-up finish to her name at this class and draws much better today. She has chance at potentially good odds. (4) BARAM GONGJU comes in following a 2nd place at class and distance on December 10th which followed another solid showing a month earlier. She can maintain that positive run of form and go close here. (7) CHEONGMA HWANGHU was a much-improved 2nd at class and distance last time out when leading for much of the way around. She comes up in weight but has a top jockey booked and can go close. (11) BEST HAMSEONG was a disappointing 8th on her first go at this class a month ago but she is a winner at the distance and can improve here. (8) BEST WIND is up in class following a good score over 1300M and is one of many with placing claims.

Selections(3) Banjiui Gijeok (4) Baram Gongju (7) Cheongma Hwanghu (11) Best Hamseong
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start3, 6, 11, 13

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(10) MONGTTANG won back-to-back races in October and November which enabled him to get his chance in the Breeders’ Cup race for juveniles on December 5th. He ran very wide on the corner taking himself out of winning contention that day before working home well. He comes up in trip here and it may well suit. (1) ADELE CROWN is rapidly up in class having won his latest two, both at this distance and last time in emphatic fashion. This is a step up in terms of opposition, but he draws nicely to sit handy, and a hat-trick is a possibility. (9) ROCK PEGASUS worked home strongly to run 2nd in a fast race at class and distance on December 3rd. He has mixed his form and comes up significantly in the weights but can be in the finish again. (2) K K WON and (8) GREAT DANCE among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(10) Mongttang (1) Adele Crown (9) Rock Pegasus (2) K K Won
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

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

Great race to end with. (4) COOL GUY is up in class having run 2nd on his first try at this distance on December 17th. The time wasn’t that fast, but he previously ran a very quick mile when winning in November and down in the weights today, looks very much in this. (2) YEONGGWANGUICHUKJE has the fastest time among these for the distance and was 2nd last time on December 5th with a few of today’s rivals behind him having led for much of the way around. He could go close or one better here. (9) GREAT BOSS was 4th in that December 5th race running on from a wide draw. He draws wide and gives weight away again but should be in the hunt. (10) TOP MATE was an also-ran in that December 5th race but has the potential to go better here. (8) POWER WINDY among others capable of finishing in the money.

Selections(4) Cool Guy (2) Yeonggwanguichukje (9) Great Boss (10) Top Mate
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 10, 11

Grand Prix Stakes 2021 – All The Runners Preview

The temperature will be several degrees below zero and dusk starting to fall on Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon when Moonhak Chief bids to become the first horse since Dongbanui Gangja more than a decade ago to record back-to-back victories in Korea’s historically most prestigious race, the Grand Prix Stakes (KOR G1-2300M). CLICK HERE FOR RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW OF ALL SEVENTEEN SUNDAY RACES AT SEOUL & BUSAN.

Moonhak Chief won the Grand Prix 2 years ago (Pic: KRA)

With no race last season, it’s now two years since Moonhak Chief followed up his 2019 Korea Cup victory by scoring by a length and a half that December. Only two of the rest of that day’s field return, Cheongdam Dokki and the retiring Dongbang Daero, but a host of new challengers have arisen in the meantime, meaning Moonhak Chief is going to need to be at his very best if he is to retain his crown.

Peter Wolsley won this race with Bold Kings in 2016 and the Australian trainer saddles Mr. Afleet this time, fresh off his triumph in the KRA Cup Classic back in October. That’s day’s close runner-up Haengbok Wangja is another leading contender and given the way he was finishing in the Classic, may even start as the favourite.

The President’s Cup, the top race restricted to Korean-bred horses, has provided two winners in recent years with Indie Band in 2013 and Gyeongbudaero in 2015 and the 2021 winner Simjangui Godong also takes his chance, as does proven Group winner Tiz Plan.

Touch Star Man, who won two legs of last year’s Triple Crown series, will be attendance, representing trainer Kim Young-kwan, who has won the race five times.

The Grand Prix Stakes is race 8 on Seoul’s 10-race Boxing Day card. Here is a full run down of all sixteen runners:

1. CHEONGDAM DOKKI (USA) [To Honor And Serve – Elusive Gold (Strike The Gold)] – His 4th attempt at the race with his best being 2nd in 2018. An excellent winner at 1800M in October before a flat performance in the KRA Cup Classic. He then ran 5th to Moonhak Chief back at 1800M on November 27th. Only returned to work last week and while there is no doubting his quality, this looks a very hard ask. Great draw though.

2. GALLOP CURLIN (USA) [Curlin – Colona (Pulpit)] – Gets his chance following a good win over 1800M at class 2 level earlier this month when midfield and running on. Tactically versatile and well-drawn but this is a big step up into the unknown in terms of distance and competition.

3. MOONHAK CHIEF (USA) [Pioneerof The Nile – Tallulah Lula (Old Trieste)] – Winner of the last edition of this race two years ago having won the Korea Cup that September. Seventh in the Cup Classic but returned to the winner’s circle on November 27th comfortably scoring over 1800M although he did get spooked by the finishing line light and stopped very quickly. At his best he is the one to beat.

4. CRAZY CONTI (USA) [Constitution – Ghostly Darkness (Ghostzapper)] – Came from well back to run a strong 3rd over 2000M at Busan two weeks ago in his first start since September. Beaten by Mr. Afleet and Touch Star Man in the summer so there is form for him to overturn here but he may appreciate the distance.

5. GEUMA ACME (KOR) [Hongji – Ms. Travelin (Lycius)] – A super 2nd in the President’s Cup to Simjangui Godong, coming from off the pace. Yet to win at higher than class 3 is a concern when stepping into this company, but the additional distance can suit. Alan Munro, who rode him in his last three starts, rides Jjang Kong instead.

6. HUNCH (USA) [To Honor And Serve – Sergeant O-Rourke (Forestry)] – Wasted a great draw by blowing the start in the Cup Classic, won by stablemate Mr. Afleet, in what was his first start since August. He has won at class 1 over 2000M in a fast time though and with a clean getaway can be competitive but may not be ready to beat the elite just yet. Minor money chance.

7. JJANG KONG (USA) [Tizway – Carietta (Stephen Got Even)] – Runner-up to Cheongdam Dokki in October before running a 3rd in the Cup Classic when handy all the way and battling on to the line. He likes it race close to the lead, so the draw works out well. He’s stubborn enough to get the 2300M and it would be no surprise seeing him in the minor money.

8. HAENGBOK WANGJA (USA) [Daredevil – First Installment (Broken Vow)] –  up and comer having just been promoted to class 1 before running a great race in the KRA Cup Classic when on the pace and wide most of the way and momentarily leading at the 200m and coming again at Mr. Afleet the finish. It was a super effort, and plenty will back him to win here.

(more…)

Grand Prix Boxing Day Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 26)

The final racing day of 2021 is on Boxing Day and it features the traditional season ending Grand Prix Stakes. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40. Here are the previews:

Any excuse to post a picture of Triple Nine – The Grand Prix winner in 2018

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

Twelve previously unraced juvenile fillies open the Boxing Day card. She’s drawn wide but we’ll go with (12) CONCORD QUEEN, who did at least record the fastest time among any of these in her trial. The track was wet and fast but that was true for most of these in their respective heats. She said just off the pace and ran through the line well and has strong claims first-up. The only trial winner is (6) SIRIUS ALPHA, which might be enough to make her favourite. She led all the way in her trial in a fair time and from a good draw is likely to be leading again. (4) DOLBAE posted a decent time in her trial and from a good gate and with a top jockey booking is set to be backed. (3) K N OLD QUEEN and (8) LAST PUNCH are others in the hunt.

Selections(12) Concord Queen (6) Sirius Alpha (4) Dolbae (3) K N Old Queen
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

Juvenile maidens with eight of the fourteen racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on one of those first-timers as (2) USURP ran a strong 2nd in his trial on a fast time, running through the line well. Starting out at 1200M may suit and he gets a great draw. (6) OCEAN STORM won a trial before debuting on November 19th, when she ran on on-pace 2nd over 1000M. She should have come on for the experience and will be expected to be close here. (9) SKY JEJUHYANG also won a trial before performing adequately on debut when she ran 3rd at 1000M sitting handy throughout and is another who may well have come on. Other debut-makers (8) GRAND SUN and (14) JOSEPHINE QUEEN also won their trials and can enter the calculations. Watch the market for any clues.

Selections(2) Usurp (6) Ocean Storm (9) Sky Jejuhyang (8) Grand Sun
Next Best14, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

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

(6) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE has raced twice, improving in the latter to a strong 2nd over 1000M on November 27th. She steps up in trip for the first time but there is nothing to indicate it won’t suit and from a probable on pace or handy position, she can win. (4) TAEYANGMA had a hard time from a wide gate when sent off as favourite over this distance on November 28th, ultimately finishing 6th. From a much better draw today, he must be given another chance. (2) BURUI KKOT ran 4th behind Neoreul Eongwonhae at start number two on November 27th, running on well from a wide draw. The gate is much better today, and she comes down another 2kg to just 50kg which should put her in the finish. (8) WONDERFUL KITTY and (12) MAGIC RUSH are others with at least placing chances in an open race.

Selections(6) Neoreul Eungwonhae (4) Taeyangma (2) Burui Kkot (8) Wonderful Kitty
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 13, 14

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s time that (9) CATCH THE SKY got his maiden win and bade farewell to the lowest level of racing. He comes in following a 2nd and a 4th at this distance, registering the fastest time among these for the mile along the way. He goes back and runs on and he can win here. (3) YEONSEUNG BRAVO beat three of these on his way to 2nd place over this distance on December 5th when sitting handy throughout. The same apprentice rider keeps the weight down again and from a nice draw he can be close at hand again. (1) RAON THE MILLION was 4th in that race having led until the home straight. He draws the inside here and should be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (4) BARBELL STORM and (13) CARIBBEAN DAY are others in the frame for places.

Selections(9) Catch The Sky (3) Yeonseung Bravo (1) Raon The Million (4) Barbell Storm
Next Best13, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

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

(4) HEUNGHAENG DAEBAK came close to winning on debut on December 4th when leading almost the entire way around over this distance only to be denied late on by Wonderful Sam. The time was good, albeit on a wet track, and from an ideal gate he should lead again and have too much for this ordinary looking field. (12) BIG ENERGY took a few starts to figure out what he was meant to be doing but his recent form reads quite well. With three 4th place finishes and a 2nd. Alan Munro climbs aboard today which catches the eye and further improvement is possible. (14) BYEORAK also seems to be getting there with a 4th place when stepped up to 1200M last start. The extra half furlong may help him get closer again. He has a bad draw, though, unlike (2) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM, who has a runner-up finish and a pair of 5ths from three starts so far. He may be ridden a bit closer a bit earlier this time around and can be in the finish. (8) SUNNY BLADE another in the hunt.

Selections(4) Heunghaeng Daebak (12) Big Energy (14) Byeorak (2) All For Your Dream
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

Very tricky race with plenty of credible contenders. If it wasn’t for the draw, (14) LANE KILLER might be a more confident top pick. He was a good winner at class 6 level over a mile and has run 2nd and 5th in two goes at this class and distance. He was ridden quite hard to get and early lead last time but given the extreme wideness this time he may just be dropped in, and it may end up paying dividends. (4) HONEY STAR has no problems with the draw, He steps back up in trip after a decent 4th over a mile at his latest start and has had the beating of a few of these in his last two outings. He is versatile but likely to be on or close to the pace here and has solid claims. So too (1) GOLDEN KAISER, who has been knocking at the door in his recent efforts and should get a good run from the inside gate. (11) GEUMA GOOD POINT ran 3rd to Lane Killer’s 2nd on November 19th having led for much of the race. Expect to see him up front early again. (8) THE FIRST FACTOR possibly the best of a competitive rest.

Selections(14) Lane Killer (4) Honey Star (1) Golden Kaiser (11) Geuma Good Point
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

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

A big and very competitive field. We’ll go with (7) WINNER IS WELL, who returned from six months out to run a strong 3rd at class and distance. He draws marginally better today and may well have come on for that run and has as good a chance as any. (5) CHALLAN HANNAL had a hard time when tried at 1700M at his latest start but should be much happier back at a distance at which he has the fastest time among those here who have tried it. (2) YEONGWANGUI CAPTAIN ran a good 4th on his first try at this distance on October 23rd. He came from midfield that day but should be on pace here and can go close. (3) RAON THE TEUKGEUP comes up in class and in distance having scored over 1200M in November. He ran on strongly and can measure up here. (14) WORLD RACER is a perfect one for one and while he comes up in class and distance and draws the widest gate, all of those can be overcome. He swept home like an express train in that debut win at 1200M and shouldn’t be ruled out here.

Selections(7) Winner Is Well (5) Challan Hannal (2) Yeongwangui Captain (3) Raon The Teukgeup
Next Best14, 10
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 12

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

Another tricky race. (11) I WILL BE FREE struck at start number two on November 21st having run 2nd on his debut. Both were at 1000M but the way he ran suggests the slight increase today won’t be an issue and he has every chance of making it two in a row. Having won an October trial, (12) CAPTAIN YANKEE debuted over this distance on November 11th, making all to win very easily. He comes up in class today and the draw isn’t ideal as he will want to lead again, but he will be vying for favourite status. (2) GEUMBIT SKY, on the other hand, draws very nicely. He too was a front-running winner over this distance at class 6 level at his latest start, when he was returning from five months off and looking significantly better. He should be in the finish again here. Similarly (13) SHY DRAGON, another all the way winner at class 6 level last time, although in her case over 1000M, can measure up in this company too. If you prefer experience at this level already then (8) ECHO MOON might be one to consider.

Selections(11) I Will Be Free (12) Captain Yankee (2) Geumbit Sky (13) Shy Dragon
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start2, 11, 12, 13

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Four of these raced each other at class and distance on December 4th. (4) JOEUN GWANGYE was sent off as favourite that day, off the back of a fast 4th over 1400M the start before. He only managed to come 3rd in the end having gone back and run on but is probably worth another chance in similarly weak company today. That day’s winner was (3) RUFFIAN PARK. He was securing his maiden triumph at start number eighteen and sat handy throughout before finishing off well. He comes up 2kg in the weights but has claims again. (11) MAGIC JOY was a good winner on his first try at this distance at class 6 level in November. This isn’t the toughest of races to try class 5 for the first time and he should be competitive. (6) RUN RUN RUN is yet to win but has been consistent and has placed at both his last two starts, both at this distance. He came from a long way back to be a close 3rd at his latest outing and can be dangerous here. (2) JIGEUMYEOGIE, from a nice draw, is another in the frame.

Selections(4) Joeun Gwangye (3) Ruffian Park (11) Magic Joy (6) Run Run Run
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Fillies (and one mare) here. (2) SEUNGNI MAGICQUEEN races for the first time since running 6th in the Luna Stakes, the first leg of the filly Triple Crown back in October, when she was the first Busan-based runner to cross the line. Prior to that she registered back-to-back wins up to 1300M at class 5 level. Form a good draw she should be close to the pace here and should be returning to winning ways. (11) ADELE ROSARIO comes up in class after a smart all the way win over 1200M on November 21st. Prior to that she was considered good enough to be given her chance in the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup and while that didn’t work out, she evidently has talent. While she is the only juvenile in the race, she should have the beating of plenty. (3) FLAT BABE was a winner at this class over 1400M two starts back and while she could only manage 6th over a mile at her latest start, she warrants another chance here. (14) MISS INDIE and (5) SONHADOR among several others with strong claims.

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Christmas Day Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 25)

The delayed racing season along with Christmas falling on a weekend means we get a rare Christmas Day card at Seoul, a day ahead of Boxing Day’s Grand Prix Stakes. There are 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. And should you wish to spend the day on the punt, all betting locations will be open although attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

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

The Christmas Day card kicks off with a field of twelve previously unraced two-year-olds so it’s to the trial videos that we head. The only one to win her heat was (6) MENI SPEAR and that’s enough for us to find in her favour here. She made all in the trial crossing the line two-lengths ahead of anything else and won’t need to improve too much to go very close here. The other logical pick is (5) NAOL YEONGUNG. He finished in 3rd place in his heat having been on pace throughout, but his time was the fastest that any of these recorded and from a good gate he has every chance. (12) GLOBAL BOBAE came home 2nd in Meni Spear’s time, running on well from midfield and despite the wide draw should be competitive here. (3) FNAL CHARM and (8) CONCORDE SPIRIT others who caught the eye in their heats.

Selections(6) Meni Spear (5) Naol Yeongung (12) Global Bobae (3) Final Charm
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 6

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

More juvenile maidens but this time only three make their racecourse debuts although none have tackled 1200M before. (7) P N S GOLD won a trial and then ran 2nd on debut on November 20th when he sat handy to the lead and then ran on well. The extra furlong can suit, and he won’t need to improve much to be winning this. (6) GEONGONILCHEOK and (5) CUPID VOW debuted together over 1000M on November 27th when both were close to the pace and ended up coming home in 4th and 5th place respectively. The should both be prominent here and can be competing to get even closer today. (4) JANGSAN POISON was close at hand 4th place on debut 1000M doing his best work late on and may like the step up in trip here. Among the first timers, (14) MUSTANG POWER crossed the line 1st in his trial and warrants consideration first up.

Selections(7) P N S Gold (6) Geongonilcheok (5) Cupid Vow (4) Jangsan Poison
Next Best14, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

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

Filly maidens here. (2) MAGIC FLOWER has run well in both starts so far, improving to 3rd place at her latest. Both were over 1000M, but the additional furlong should be fine, and she has claims here. (3) SWEET CAMP was a slightly disappointing 6th at her latest start when well backed but she has a 2nd and a 3rd to her name at this distance already and should go close again. (8) RAON THE DASH is another trying the distance for the first time after three solid efforts over 1000M and can be competitive.  A litany of excuses were offered for (4) PUREUN YOJEONG’s dismal effort at 1300M two weeks ago, from the kickback to possibly not liking the gear she was wearing. She threw her head up at the start and then got bumped which set the tone for the race. We’ll draw a line through it and give her another chance as she has shown ability. (12) LUCKY INDY may need a touch of luck early to get a forward position, but she has shown some speed and should be in the mix.

Selections(2) Magic Flower (3) Sweet Camp (8) Raon The Dash (4) Pureun Yojeong
Next Best12, 9
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 12
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 24)

It’s Grand Prix weekend at last with the big season-ending race taking place at Seoul on Sunday. Before that though Busan kicks things off on Friday with a 7-race Christmas Eve card from 12:40 to 18:00. All betting locations remain open although the off-track centres are restricted to 80% capacity. Attendance at all racecourses and off-track locations must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens with eleven of the twelve racing for the first time. We therefore head to the trial videos and find that (1) SANGSEUNG BOY led all the way in his heat to cross the line in front by a wide margin n a decent time. He draws beautifully on the inside and if h gets off to a good start again, he will take some beating. The one horse with prior race experience is (12) EUNSEONG WINNER. She ran well on debut, overcoming gate ten to sit just off the pace and then ran on well enough for 3rd place. She should have come on for the experience and while the gate may not help again, she should go close. Back to the first timers and (7) BINGO MAN won his heat leading all the way, crossing the line thirteen lengths in front of anything else. The time was pedestrian but there looks to be potential. (9) MAIN BRIDGE and (10) PHANTOM ACE are others who performed well in their trials and should be close first-up.

Selections(1) Sangseung Boy (12) Eunseong Winner (7) Bingo Man (9) Main Bridge
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 7, 10, 12

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

Maiden fillies and plenty of potential winners. We’ll take a chance with (4) CHEONGMA POWER, who has mixed her form but is better than her latest effort suggests when slowly away and never a factor. She does have two placings at this distance to her name in fair times and from a good draw and a better getaway, has as much chance as any. (13) FUNNY LIFE gets a bad draw, but she is yet to finish worse than 4th in three starts and seems to be working towards a win. She comes in having run 2nd over 1000M at her latest start when on pace throughout. She comes up in trip for the first time but has every chance. (10) RAON THE FLASH led on her first try at this distance at start number three, weakening in the closing stages to run 6th. The experience should benefit, and she can go closer this time. There are a couple of debut-makers. (1) ALPHA V was on pace in her trial a couple of weeks ago and from the inside gate can make an impact here. (5) DROMOS among a number of others with at least placing claims.

Selections(4) Cheongma Power (13) Funny Life (10) Raon The Flash (1) Alpha V
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 13

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

Decent race for the level but we’re likely to have a standout favourite. (10) GEUMA STARLET returned from six months out to run a strong 2nd over 1200M on December 5th, coming from well off the pace. He should strip fitter for that run and the additional distance can suit. He looks hard to beat. (8) BLUE CAPTAIN showed improvement at his latest start to run 3rd over 1200M. He can get on pace here and so long as he sees out the trip can be competitive. (7) DOCTOR CANDY does have experience at this distance, having run 2nd at it, her best performance to date, in an admittedly slow race on December 3rd. She sat just off the pace that day and battled on and from a slightly better draw should be in the finish again. (4) NEW CROWN ran 4th in that 1200M race behind Geuma Starlet at his latest outing when he too came from a long way back. He has run fairly at this distance before and along with (13) RUN AND GUN is another with claims on a money finish.

Selections(10) Geuma Starlet (8) Blue Captain (7) Doctor Candy (4) New Crown
Next Best13, 6
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

There is a race of reference here at class and distance on November 26th. (2) FANTASTIC LEADER could only manage 6th that day, beaten by a couple of todays rivals, but the margins were tight. Two starts back he ran a very strong 2nd, again at this distance, and while he is yet to win, today could be his day. (5) INDIAN PARTY started slowly in that race but rallied well to come home in 4th place. That continued a consistent run of form for him and from a much better gate today, he too can have winning claims. (11) K CHUKJE came home the best of those who ran in that November race, finishing in 3rd place at lengthy odds. He’ll warrant more respect here although the other two draw better this time. If you don’t like the form from that race, then (6) LIGHT STORY can be the one to go for. She was very impressive when winning on debut and while she faltered on her next appearance at this distance, she ran better third-up over 1200M on November 28th. She will be on or close to the pace here and can be in the finish. (12) JEONSEOLUI PUNCH another in the frame.

Selections(2) Fantastic Leader (5) Indian Party (11) K Chukje (6) Light Story
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 12

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

(6) DOCTOR CAESAR won his first two races in good order before running 3rd in the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup, a race which he led for much of the way around. He followed it up with a runner-up finish at this class and distance on November 26th. He draws well here to get to the lead again and he should have too much. (2) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI has won three from five in total including his latest at the end of October wen he led all the way over this distance. He is up in class here but comes down slightly in the weights and draws well. He surely measures up in this company. It’s a similar story with (1) GLORY KING who was also an all the way winner over 1200M at class 5 level on his latest outing. He too comes up in class and marginally down in the weights and he will be making it a testing time at the front in the early stages here. (4) JESSIEUI KKUM raced just the once all the way back in the summer of 2020. He looked well when trialing earlier this month and could make a bid for the places at each-way odds. (8) WINNER’S TIME another in the hunt.

Selections(6) Doctor Caesar (2) Busanhang Galmaegi (1) Glory King (4) Jessieui Kkum
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 6, 12, 14

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

Tricky race with three standouts. (1) ECOPIA is probably the justifiable favourite having won two of her last three with the defeat being in the Luna Stakes at a mile when drawn very wide. She’ll get an easier time of it here from the inside and she looks the one to beat. (5) SEUNGNI TOUT was a winner at this class over 1800M on December 10th. He has run fast times over a mile too and rarely runs a bad race with twelve top-five finishes from fourteen starts to date. He is up in the weights as a result of that win but should be in the finish. It took (9) DOCTOR FAITH ten attempts to get his maiden score, but he enters looking for a hat-trick of wins. His latest was at class and distance on November 28th when he sat handy from the same gate he draws today. He too is up in weight but is firmly in the frame. (7) CHEONGDAM FIRE and (10) PURE KING have placing chances.

Selections(1) Ecopia (5) Seungni Tout (9) Doctor Faith (7) Cheongdam Fire
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(7) MAN OF TOP has been a model of consistency but has only recently started to win. He beat several of these on his way to victory at class and distance on November 26th when despite drawing wide, he was able to find a position and then ran on to win well. He comes in the weights but gets a better gate and will be favourite to win again. (6) CHANGE BACK won at this distance at class 4 level and has two runner-up finished from three attempts at this class. He usually settles midfield or further back and runs on and he should be coming on strong at the end again today. (9) YEONGGWANGUI FIGHT ran 2nd to Man Of Top in that November 26th race. He gets a bog weight advantage again today and can go close. (8) SEONGSAN POWER and (2) QUATTRO MAX are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(7) Man Of Top (6) Change Back (9) Yeonggwangui Fight (8) Seongsan Power
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

Filly & Mare Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (December 19)

Last Sunday Heat Yegam confirmed his position as Champion three-year-old colt with victory in the Minister’s Cup. This week it’s the turn of the fillies to finish up their Triple Crown. It will be one of Luna Stakes winner Raon Pink or Oaks winner Choegang Black, both of whom return to face each other again in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup over 2000M. One race earlier, the older fillies and mares get to run for a big prize in the Jeju Governor’s Cup with Raon First set to be a hot favourite. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 7 races from 11:10 to 16:40. All betting locations are open however attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

The finish to the Korean Oaks. Choegang Black, Raon Pink and Serve Ace return to Seoul for the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all but one racing for the very first time. And among those first-timers there was a stand-out trial performance from (8) JAY PHOENIX. From the widest gate he cruised to the lead and continued that cruise to cross the line a full two-seconds faster than the next home. If he brings that form to the races, he wins. The sole entrant with previous experience came close on debut. After winning a trial (10) BLACK MASK was sent off hot favourite on October 16th but ultimately came home in 2nd place. Nevertheless, it was a quick time, and he comes in after nine weeks off, ready to be in the mix again. Back to the trial videos for the rest and (2) NERWOOLI won his heat in good fashion while there were also encouraging performances from (7) BURUI SINHWA and (11) HAPPY MIX.

Selections(8) Jay Phoenix (10) Black Mask (2) Nerwooli (7) Burui Sinhwa
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

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

Juvenile maidens and (9) ILNYEOM CHEONHA will be favourite. Having run well in a trial, he was 2nd on debut on November 21st at this distance, overcoming a slightly sluggish start to run on well. It was a fair time and faster than any of the others recorded on their respective debuts and he is the one to beat. (7) RAON THE FIGHTING also ran 3rd on debut on November 19th. He sat behind the pace and ran on pleasingly enough and should have come on for the run. There are three first time starters and the one which will attract the most interest is (5) GEUMA UNO. He was an on-pace 2nd in his heat in a fair time and the Kim Young-kwan/You Hyun-myung connection will ensure he is well backed first-up. (6) ALL CROWN and (10) PLAY THE INDY both hinted on debut that they have some potential and can also be in the mix for minor money.

Selections(9) Ilnyeom Cheonha (7) Raon The Fighting (5) Geuma Uno (6) All Crown
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

Filly maidens only here and it could be a chance for (6) DELPHINI to get her first win. She returned from six months out to run a pleasing 3rd over this distance in a similar race on November 21st, running on as is her style. From a nice central draw and with Munro aboard, there isn’t too much to fear here.  Vying with her for favourite status will be (8) GALSAEK HYANGGI. She’s shown improvement over three outings to date, culminating in 3rd place on her first try over today’s trip on November 20th when she went back and ran on strong. She’ll be in the finish again. (1) FLEX QUEEN recorded her best finish to date at her latest start when 2nd over this distance. She led that day and from the same inside gate today will surely aim to do the same. (7) EAST MAGIC and (5) WONDERFUL NIKIYA are among a few others with at least placing chances.

Selections(6) Delphini (8) Galsaek Hyanggi (1) Flex Queen (7) East Magic
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 11

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

Tricky race. (5) DAEHO NURI has finished no better than 5th in four attempts so far but he has run the kind of times that ought to be competitive here. From a good draw, he can sit handy and run on and this could be his day. (8) ALIVE STAR returns to action for the first time since May. He is the only previous winner in the field and while being first-up in thirty-two weeks is obviously going to pose some questions, he looked well enough when running 3rd in a late November trial. If he is at his best, he can win this. (3) ARTIE’S GAL races for the first time in even longer. His best result was a 3rd place on debut at this distance in a slow race more than a year ago, but he won a trial in November leading all the way, has a good draw and a featherweight to carry. (14) GREEN SPEED has already finished as runner-up at this distance. She led for much of that race so may need a touch of luck early from the widest gate, but she can be considered. (2) DOCTOR TANGO another placing chance.

Selections(5) Daeho Nuri (8) Alive Star (3) Artie’s Gal (14) Green Speed
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 12, 14

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) SAENAE HWANGJE showed improvement when stepped up to two-turns for the first time on November 14th, settling handy and running on for 2nd place. The time wasn’t fast, but he won’t need to go much faster to win this. (7) VIVA CHAMPION comes up to this trip for the first time after a couple of creditable performances at shorter. He has run on well in his latest two and if he does the same today will run into some money. (10) RUNNING NUMBER ONE overcame a wide draw to finish 3rd in a plodding affair at this distance on November 27th. That’s two places in his last three starts, both coming at this distance, and he should be in the finish again. (3) SEMYEONG CAPTAIN was 5th behind Running Number One at his latest outing and can aim to match or better today. (1) ONE PUTT always three-putts the start but usually runs on and should pass plenty in a race where a double-bogey will be enough to get on the leaderboard.

Selections(5) Saenae Hwangje (7) Viva Champion (10) Running Number One (3) Semyeong Captain
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

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

(3) ADELE BOSS steps up in trip following a 3rd and a 5th in his latest two at 1000M and 1200M respectively. The latter time he had to deal with gate fourteen and wasn’t able to find a decent position whereas today, from a much better draw he can use his good start to get away well. He has claims. So too does (9) ONE RUSH, who has raced just twice but has a 5th and a 3rd with the latter being at this distance in a good time. She sat midfield and ran on that day and while she still draws wide, in the smaller field, should be able to find a position early and run on again. (1) DAEJI SPECIAL ran into 3rd place at 1000M at his latest start. Although a previous try at 1200M didn’t go especially well, from a nice draw he can be considered for improvement here. (6) YEONSEUNG GLORY improved to 2nd at his most recent start over this distance and along with (5) MONEY BAG, warrants consideration for a place.

Selections(3) Adele Boss (9) One Rush (1) Daeji Special (6) Yeonseung Glory
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 9
(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 19)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations will be open but attendance must be booked in advance using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens open proceedings and ten of the twelve race here for the very first time. However, the two with experience both offered some promise on their debuts. We’ll tentatively side with (10) MABAWI, who having trialed well ran a close at hand 3rd on debut on November 11th, settling midfield and running on. He doesn’t draw well but (9) TOUCH NINE gets only a marginally better gate. He also ran 3rd on debut on November 27th and in a faster time than Mabawi, albeit further beaten in a faster race. He should have come on for that and can get closer today. Among the debut makers, (3) BAEKDU GIRL was the fastest in trials. She draws nicely to be on pace here and has solid claims. (8) CLAIR POINT won her heat in a fair time and is another who should be on pace. (2) RIVER TAEYANG another of several first-timers who have every chance first up.

Selections(10) Mabawi (9) Touch Nine (3) Baekdu Girl (8) Clair Point
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

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

Big field of juvenile filly maidens with (4) BESTYA the one to beat. She has raced twice so far finishing 3rd on both occasions having come right from the back of the field at 1000M and 1200M. So long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, she can win this.  The only other one in the field to have tried this distance already is (1) WONPYEONG QUEEN. She too ran on from the back of the field on debut on November 21st and while she could only make it up to 7th, it was promising enough to suggest that from the inside gate today, she can get much closer. (13) HUIMANG GADEUK ran 4th on debut in a fast time at 1000M and should have come on for that run. If she can overcome the wide draw, she should be right in this. So too (12) QUEEN OF RACING, who has a pair of 5th place finishes from two starts and can build on those here. (7) BIG BIT, a not too far away 5th on debut at 1000M, is another in the hunt.

Selections(4) Bestya (1) Wonpyeong Queen (13) Huimang Gadeuk (12) Queen Of Racing
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 13

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

(2) AMAZON KING has made steady progress across three starts so far with a 2nd place over 1000M two starts back followed up by a good 4th at this distance on November 6th. He has the fastest start among these and from gate two should be on pace and can lead all the way. (11) SILVER STAR ran on well from an unpromising position in an all-filly race on November 21st. She has been getting a bit far back in her races but should beat plenty here. (3) WARRIOR THUNDER has mixed his form across eight appearances so far but comes in off a fine runner-up finish over 1300M when on pace throughout. A repeat of that run would put him in the finish again. (8) JILJUE BADA and (14) SANGSEUNG HAENGJIN among others with placing chances.

Selections(2) Amazon King (11) Silver Star (3) Warrior Thunder (8) Jiljue Bada
Next Best14, 13
Fast Start2, 3, 12, 13

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) CHEONJI JIDAE is set to be favourite here. He’s raced three times so far and has done well on each occasion including runner-up at his latest outing on November 14th when he sat behind the pace and ran on strong. He steps up to this distance for the first time and may take some beating. (8) SEUNGSEUNG POWER was sent off as favourite for his scheduled most recent outing on November 6th but blundered on exiting the gates and dislodged his rider, proceeding to complete the 1400M on his own. He has two good 3rd place finishes to his name and should be in the mix here. (13) SMART POWER went in that same race and was able to keep his human assistant aboard to finish a good 5th from an even wider gate than he draws today. He is one of only two in the race to have a win to his name and should be competitive. (11) HALLAUI WONSEOK is the solitary debut-maker and having been through three trials at various stages, could be primed to go here. (2) GEUREUMTAGO comes back in trip and can be competitive from a good draw.

Selections(5) Cheonji Jidae (8) Seungseung Power (13) Smart Power (11) Hallaui Wonseok
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 13

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

(2) CHAMJOEUN CHINGU comes up in class having made all for a facile win over 1200M on November 14th. She had been working up towards that and the increase in trip should be no problem here either. She draws well and will be hard to beat. (4) M J BEST’s challenge faltered a little over 1400M at his last start, but he drops back in trip slightly today and has previously registered fast times and good results at this distance. He’ll come from off the pace and can be a danger here. (5) YUKWAEHAN SEONTAEK remains a maiden but is yet to finish worse than 3rd in four starts, hence being up at this level. He showed he measures up in this class with 3rd place over 1200M at the end of October and there is no reason why the additional half furlong can’t suit here. (12) GRAY CAT and (7) GOLD SPIKE among several others who could place.

Selections(2) Chamjoeun Chingu (4) M J Best (5) Yukwaehan Seontaek (12) Gray Cat
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Very competitive race for the level. (2) MENI GOLD had a slightly disappointing day at the office when sent off as the odds-on favourite at class and distance on November 7th, not getting the best of trips and ultimately finishing 5th. She looks to have potential though and is worth another chance here. He needs to overturn the form from that day on (3) PRINCESS SOCKS, who ran 2nd in that race having inconvenienced Meni Gold in the early part of the race and then led for much of the way. She too looks to have a win in her at this level and from adjoining gates, the pair will be vying for the lead from the start. (8) PINE FARM was a fine winner on debut at 1000M on November 7th. She comes up in class and in trip today but should be competitive. (9) SOEWAKKOT and (13) BEST CHEONSANG among others who can go well in a race of many chances.

Selections(2) Meni Gold (3) Princess Socks (8) Pine Farm (9) Soewakkot
Next Best13, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 13
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 17)

It’s the penultimate weekend of the season and the weekend’s focus will be on the filly and mare division with both the final leg of the filly Triple Crown and also the Jeju Governor’s Cup for older fillies and mares taking place at Seoul on Sunday. The weekend’s racing kicks off in Busan on Friday with 7 races from 12:40 to 18:00. Despite new restrictions having been imposed, currently all betting locations are set to be open (this is subject to change if the government decides so) but advance reservation through the MyCard app is required. Here are Friday’s previews:

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

They’ve managed to find twelve previously unraced juvenile fillies to kick us off, which is quite a feat for the penultimate week of the season. Unsurprisingly none set the world alight in trials, but a couple put in decent showings. (7) DAEJI PERFECT was fastest, leading for much of her heat and ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place without being asked for too much effort. It was her second trial and she showed great improvement from the first and if she continues that trajectory can win here. She will vie for favourite status with (1) GASOK DAY. She also showed prominently in her trial finishing 2nd in a slower time than Daeji Perfect but on a drier and slower running track. The jockey booking will ensure she is well-backed. (12) BEAUTY BROWN led her trial and while she needs to overcome the widest draw, she may be considered here. (8) RED COLOR and (2) SPECIAL FACT are others who hinted at ability in their heats and may go well first up.

Selections(7) Daeji Perfect (1) Gasok Day (12) Beauty Brown (8) Red Color
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 12

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

Having made progress across four starts so far, culminating in 2nd place last time out over 1200M on November 14th, (1) ADELE CHUKBAE is the one to beat here. He was only beaten last time by Wonderful Fager, who came out and won again two weeks later and from the inside gate, should be on pace and be hard to run down. (11) USEUNG HUNTER looks the clear second choice. He too has shown improvement over four outings and was 2nd last time overcoming an indifferent start to run on well. He too steps up to this distance for the first time and while the wide draw is not ideal, he has claims. Draw a line through the latest effort by (5) GIANT CAL when drawn very wide over 1400M. He has a 2nd place to his name at today’s trip and should be competitive here. (9) CHEONMA BRAVO and (4) BAEDARI ICON are others with placing claims.

Selections(1) Adele Chukbae (11) Useung Hunter (5) Giant Cal (9) Cheonma Bravo
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 8, 10, 11

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

A small field tackle the mile, but plenty have chances. We’ll take a chance on (8) CHEONGHO LEADER, who is one of the few who steps up to this trip for the first time. He has been consistent at 1400M, running on well in his races and the additional furlong may well suit. (5) DAMYANG DOLPUNG has plenty of experience at the distance and comes in with his latest couple of outings being positive. His times haven’t been special, but they won’t need to be in order to be in the mix here. (2) YEONGCHEON SOLEMIO is an interesting one as his three starts so far have all been at 1000M. He has been well backed in all three of those but hasn’t managed to finish better than 4th. It may be that the extra distance today is what he needs. (1) GEUMUI MAN steps up in trip after a decent 3rd place at 1200M last start and is another with placing claims while (3) URI JOEUNNAL is another who can be there or thereabouts.

Selections(8) Cheongho Leader (5) Damyang Dolpung (2) Yeongcheon Solemio (1) Geumui Man
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (7) ILBEONJI fully justified her odds-on status with a facile gate to wire win on debut over 1000M on October 24th. She comes up in class and in trip here but can lead again and can have too much again. Also up in class is (11) H. DAY, who got her maiden win at start number two on October 10th, settling handy and then running on strong in a fast time. She too should be able to handle the additional distance and can measure up in this company. (1) SUNSET MELODY was a winner on debut back in September and has proven competitive in two subsequent efforts at this class and distance, finishing in 3rd place on her latest outing two weeks ago. She draws nicely here and should be in the hunt. (13) GOLDEN POWER comes up in class after a win at this distance on November 26th. She may need some luck in the run from the wide gate but warrants respect here. (8) HALLA NURI another in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Ilbeonji (11) H. Day (1) Sunset Melody (13) Golden Power
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start5, 7, 11, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(8) CHEONNYEONUI QUEEN beat three of these on her way to 2nd place at class and distance on November 21st, continuing a run of good form and she has every chance in this competitive handicap where she can sit midfield and run on from off the pace. (2) FLASHY CHARM comes up in class and in distance after a good win over 1200M on November 28th. His running style has been to sit behind the pace and run on, suggesting the increased trip should be no problem and he has the potential to ultimately go higher than this class. (4) CHEONNYEONUIYAKSO mixes his form but has the fastest time among any of these at this distance. He draws much better than in his latest two outings and should be in the mix here. (14) CRONUS and (9) MUJEOK CHARLIE among others with placing hopes.

Selections(8) Cheonnyeonui Queen (2) Flashy Charm (4) Cheonnyeonuiyakso (14) Cronus
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A good race and it is stablemates who were both also-rans in the Korean Derby on November 7th who top the contenders. (4) WORLD CHANGE is set to be favourite. He runs for the first time since the Derby when he was well back, but his prior form was good including a super win over a mile. He also beat (7) KING GOLIATH when they met at a mile in September. King Goliath himself has raced since the Derby, finishing 2nd at class and distance just a couple of weeks ago when he ran on well but couldn’t quite get to a good winner. He should be going very close again. (1) YEONGWON POWER beat King Goliath when the pair ran 1st and 2nd over this distance at class 5 level back in October. He comes in after a good class and distance 2nd at the end of November and under a light weight and from a good gate should be very competitive again. (10) COOL GUY and (8) WHITE GALLOPER among other chances in a competitive race.

Selections(4) World Change (7) King Goliath (1) Yeongwon Power (10) Cool Guy
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 10

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

It didn’t happen for (6) SUCCESS MACHO in the Owners’ Cup on November 21st, a race in which the previously unbeaten three-year-old was sent of as favourite but turned out to be a bit much too soon. Plenty of others had off-days in that race too and given the level of performance he had put in over five winning starts before that, he has to be given another chance here. Like Success Machi, (9) ONNURI JILJU found the elite level a bit hard at this stage of his career, finishing down the field in the Cup Mile and Derby in his latest two starts. Returning to shallower waters today, he should be a much more dangerous prospect. Continuing the pattern of drawing lines through latest starts, (3) ALPHA STAR was on pace early but weakened over 1800M at his latest three weeks ago and should appreciate the drop ack to a mile today. (2) SMART MOD and (11) TOP FIRE among others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Success Macho (9) Onnuri Jilju (3) Alpha Star (2) Smart Mod
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 9

Seoul & Busan Triple Crown Finale Sunday: Race-by-Race Preview (December 12)

The 2021 Triple Crown reaches its long-delayed conclusion on Sunday at Seoul Racecourse as KRA Cup Mile winner Heat Yegam and Korean Derby champion Winner’s Man face off in the “Minister’s” Cup. The big race has only attracted eight runners but should be a fascinating affair nonetheless and is race 8 on the 10-race card at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There are also 7 races at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40. All betting locations within Korea are open but attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Winner’s Man beat Heat Yegam in the Derby (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile filly maidens here with two of the twelve racing for the first time. The one to beat is set to be (4) RAON THE ARIA, who has raced twice for 4th and 2nd, both at 1000M and both in fast times, coming from just off the pace. She can go one better today. The main danger is one of the two debut-makers. (1) SAENAE FOREST went through two trials and vastly improved in the second of them, sitting just behind the leader throughout and then running on to cross the lone in front on a fast time on an admittedly wet track. From the inside gate she can sit handy or lead here and if she brings that form to the races, should go well. (5) COSMO won a September trial before running a solid 5th on debut in a fast time at this distance, settling back and running on. He should have come on for that and can be competitive again. (7) DAPHNE and (8) P N S CHANCE others to consider for the places.

Selections(4) Raon The Aria (1) Saenae Forest (5) Cosmo (7) Daphne
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

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

(12) KING SATURDAY trialed up nicely at the end of October before impressive on debut when 3rd at 1000M on November 7th, starting a touch slowly but quickly ridden up to be handy and then running on. He comes up in trip here and despite the wide draw has every chance of making his breakthrough. (3) CHOEGANG FORCE ran 4th in that same race, improving on his debut 6th. He has run on both times and may appreciate the additional furlong here. (1) DAEHO JEONSEOL didn’t do too much wrong when 5th on debut in October. He had an apprentice on that day so he does come up in weight, but he draws well and should be in the mix. (7) RAON THE GUTSEN also comes up in weight from a good 4th on debut over 1000M, but he too should be competitive here. (10) WISE BOY among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(12) King Saturday (3) Choegang Force (1) Daeho Jeonseol (7) Raon The Gutsen
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

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

(2) BE CRAZY is likely to be a warm favourite. After winning an October trial, he led on debut over 1200M on November 14th before ultimately finishing 4th. He draws well to lead again, and this time shouldn’t be caught. (10) ROAD ACE should be on pace too. He ran well in his first three outings over 1000M but was never able to get a foothold in the race on his fourth start over 1300M last month. The draw isn’t great but if he can get away well, he can go close. (1) CUPID WONDER has mixed her form over nine prior appearances but overcame a wide draw last time out to run a good 4th at this distance and she should be involved again. (4) SHINE MUSIC has the fastest time among any of these at the distance and comes back in trip after a spin over 1700M last time out that was better than her 8th place finish suggests. Along with (8) B J FLASH, she should be in the hunt for some minor money.

Selections(2) Be Crazy (10) Road Ace (1) Cupid Wonder (4) Shine Music
Next Best8, 14
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 10

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

With a 4th, a 3rd and a 2nd from three starts so far, it’s time for (2) STELL LUNA to go one better and register her maiden win in this all-filly affair. She is up to this trip for the first time, but she has run on well in her races so far and from a great draw it’s hard to look past here. (8) FANTASTIC LOVE tackles further than 1000M for the first time. He is yet to finish any worse than 4th and there is no reason why he can’t handle the additional trip. (7) HAVANA JANE come sin having registered her best finish so far when 2nd over 1300M on November 12th. That day’s winner has gone on to win again and Havana Jane should be aiming for at least a place here. (1) WILD ADELE was 6th behind Havana Jane last time but draws better here and should be competing to get on the early speed. (4) DARI TTEUNI is the only one in the field who has won a race before and enters the calculations on that alone.

Selections(2) Stell Luna (8) Fantastic Love (7) Havana Jane (1) Wilde Adele
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8   

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

(6) DOUBLE TAKE is yet to win in eight attempts but enters with two 3rds and a 4th from her latest three including her last start 3rd on November 7th when she came from well off the pace to swoop home. Munro stays aboard, she carries the same weight and has the same gate and this time she looks the one to beat. (4) BARAMGWA HAMKKE was ridden more forward than in previous starts at his latest outing on November 13th and ended up a significantly improved 2nd. He draws much better this time and can maintain his momentum here. (1) VIENTO led for much of the way around at class and distance at her latest start, ultimately giving way and ending up a good 3rd. She has mixed her form over her six appearances but looks nicely in here on the inside to be on pace again and go close. (13) CHEONGSAN YEONGUNG and (11) TAEYANGTAGO among others to take into consideration.

Selections(6) Double Take (4) Baramgwa Hamkke (1) Viento (13) Cheongsan Yeongung
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 7, 10, 14

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

Tricky race. We’ll give another chance to (5) HORAENGI, who has only missed the top five on two of ten occasions so far. She drops back in trip having posted consistent, if admittedly unspectacular, times at 1400M in her most recent starts and she looks to have as good a chance as any here. (1) SUSO POWER is set to be the favourite. She races for the first time since June but went through two trials in November posting good times in both. She draws nicely on the inside and has very chance. (6) JEONSEOLUI PARTY was a much-improved 2nd on her latest outing over 1200M on November 7th. She was found to have bled that day and has since been back to trial which she came through unscathed and can go well again. (7) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL and (4) STATICE others with minor money claims.

Selections(5) Horaengi (1) Suso Power (6) Jeonseolui Party (7) Seungriui Bulgil
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

Fillies only here. (4) PURPLE K will be hot favourite. She was a super all the way winner over 1000M at class 6 level on October 10th before running a very solid 5th in a hot Nonghyup Chairman’s Cup at the end of that month. She could have probably taken her chance in the Korean Breeders’ Cup at Busan last week but goes here instead and really should be winning. (7) COMPLETE STAR has placed in her last three starts, all at this class and the most recent two at this distance. Last time out she posted a fast time in 2nd behind a decent winner and should sit handy again here and can push the favourite close. (11) BLACK SILVER doesn’t draw as well as she did when 3rd at her latest start but still has claims to be involved at the business end again. (1) WOL YEONG I and (9) HANGANG MAGIC are others in the frame.

Selections(4) Purple K (7) Complete Star (11) Black Silver (1) Wol Yeong I
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 11

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

It’s hard to look past (10) DAEJI CHOICE here. He had been working up to his last start win, which came at class and distance on November 14th when he was quickly in front and won by a long way. He had the same wide gate that he has today and the same weight and should win again. (5) SUSO ENGINE made her breakthrough at start number two on November 7th, making all over this distance to win in a decent enough time. She comes up in class here but draws nicely again and she’ll be expected to challenge for the lead and be in this a long way again. (1) BEST HAMSEONG also comes up in class following a win at this distance three weeks ago. She draws well, carries a light weight and is another who should be on pace from the start. (9) MENI GLORY and (8) GOLD LUCK are others in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Daeji Choice (5) Suso Engine (1) Best Hamseong (9) Meni Glory
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 9

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

(7) SECRET BOSS has won his latest two stars at class 5 over 1400M and then at this level and this distance. He has proven capable of winning from the front or from off the pace and while he comes up plenty in the weights, he can make it three in a row here. The logical second choice is (9) MUNHAK FIRE. A class and distance winner in a fast time in June, he comes in here having run 3rd in each of his latest three outings, beating a number of these in the process. He likes to be on pace so may need a little early luck in running but he should go close. (1) RACE ROYAL looked on her way to victory over 1400M at her latest outing before getting swamped in the closing stages. She’s yet to win but is yet to finish any worse than 5th and seemed to have sorted out her slow starting issues last time. She has placing chances again. (10) MUNHAK STORM and (6) ROCK LINE others to watch out for.

Selections(7) Secret Boss (9) Munhak Fire (1) Race Royal (10) Munhak Storm
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start6, 9, 11, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(5) PURE KING comes up in class but significantly down in weight and is worth thought based on his 1400M form including his latest start when 2nd to the promising Mongttang. He can sit handy early here and looks the one to beat. (6) ACE DAY was a good class and distance winner two starts back when leading all the way. He comes out in trip today but does have a 2nd place at this distance on his record. He likes to lead in his races and if he can get into a rhythm, he can be in the finish. (9) INFINITY POWER is another up in class following a 1400M win when racing forward. He drops in weight here and though he draws a touch wider than ideal, he’ll be in this. Draw a line through the latest effort from (3) HAPPY WOMAN when she was very wide early. This should suit better as from gate three she should be able to get to her preferred handy position without too much trouble.  (11) GALAXY ORB the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Pure King (6) Ace Day (9) Infinity Power (3) Happy Woman
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11
(more…)