Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 30)

April concludes with a nine-race card at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. The racecourse is open for walk up admission for non-reserved seats. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener and it’s a good race with plenty looking ready to win. (1) BEST JEONSA has made progress across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at 1300M on his latest start on March 26th. He has raced best on pace and has a great draw to get to the front here. (9) MIRACLE DAUGHTER enters off a good 2nd place at this distance on a wet track on March 26th. She too likes to be on pace and can go close again here. (6) OKCHEON CHOEGANG has the fastest time among these who have tackled the distance before, achieved on debut on March 27th when he settled handy and ran on for 4th. He should have come on for the run and can be in the mix here (5) GLOBAL BOBAE has acquitted himself fairly in three outings to date and was a good 3rd on his first try at this distance. He is another likely to be on pace and can be in this a long way. There are two first-time starters and of the par, (2) CHOEGO BLACK looks the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(1) Best Jeonsa (9) Miracle Daughter (6) Okcheon Choegang (5) Global Bobae
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 9

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

Three-year-old-maiden fillies here. (1) SOARA DAERO has shown good consistency across her four starts to date with a 2nd and a 3rd at 1200M to her name. She comes up in trip but should be on the early pace from a nice draw and she can win for an in-form stable. (3) WONPYEONG QUEEN was a much-improved 2nd on her latest start on March 27th when for the first time she was ridden handy to the speed. Expect similar today and a repeat of that run would make her a winning chance here. (10) OCHEONBOK came from well off the pace to run 4th on debut over 1200M on March 26th. He should have come on for that run and the slight increase in trip should suit. (2) CITY CHARM and (4) TTEOOREUDA are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(1) Soara Daero (3) Wonpyeong Queen (10) Ocheonbok (2) City Charm
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

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

Small field here and (3) K N POST is probably the one to beat. She was an improved 2nd on what was start number three for her over this distance on March 27th when she settled right at the back of the field before rattling home well. She should find herself with a little less to do in this small field and can win. (5) HANGANG DOLPUNG ran well for 2nd on debut at this distance on April 2nd. It was a slower time than that of K N Post, but it was on a slow-running track. He should have benefitted for the run and can make progress here. (8) P N S GAMBOL hinted at improvement at his latest outing on April 2nd when a much better 3rd over 1300M. This race is no harder and he can build on that today. (2) FAMILY CAPTAIN and (7) KKANGDORI are others who can enter the calculations

Selections(3) K N Post (5) Hangang Dolpung (8) P N S Gambol (2) Family Captain
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

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

Luigi Riccardi’s stable has been in fine form over the past couple of weeks and they can maintain it with (2) DAESARI. Having made all in a trial, he was a winner on debut over 1200M on March 26th, when he sat handy before running on very well over 1200M. He comes up in class today but slightly down in weight and draws a much better barrier. He has strong claims to preserve his 100% record. (8) REMARKABLE is yet to win but has a solid record of six top-five finishes from nine attempts. She comes in following a good 3rd place at class and distance on April 3rd and under a similarly light weight, can be dangerous here. (12) WILD SOCKS ran 4th in that same race having drawn the same wide gate as today. He has a good finish on him though and if he can get a bit of luck position-wise, he has a chance. (4) MEOTJIN GIROK came from well back to run 2nd at class and distance on March 27th and while he is up slightly in the weights, that’s balanced by a much better gate. (3) DAESE MANSE was a long-shot winner of that April 3rd race, ahead of Remarkable and Wild Socks and warrants a little more respect this time.

Selections(2) Daesari (8) Remarkable (12) Wild Socks (4) Meotjin Girok
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 11

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

(8) FLY STAR is up in class following a good win at 1200M on March 27th. That was his maiden, but it had been coming after a near miss at the start before. He comes up in class but can measure up and will be expected to be on or close to the pace here. He is set to dispute favourite status with (10) WORLD RACER. He was a good winner on debut at this distance before struggling over 1400M on his reappearance on Boxing Day from gate fourteen. He returned to action on March 12th, again drawing the widest gate, and he came from off the pace for a slashing 4th. The draw is still not good, but it is marginally better, and he can be powering home late again here. (12) YONGAM BOSS is another up in class following a good maiden win at 1300M on March 27th. He draws wide but that is balanced a little by coming down in the weights and he has a chance. (3) ENERGIZER, racing for the first time since last September, looked well in a trial two weeks ago and can put in a decent effort first-up here. (6) CHEONGSAN GASE another in the frame.

Selections(8) Fly Star (10) World Racer (12) Yongam Boss (3) Energizer
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

(5) RAON THE TIGER comes up in class following a good win over this distance at class 5 level on March 27th when he broke well, sat handy and then ran on. The class rise is balanced by a drop in the weights, and he has every chance of winning again. (7) MUNHAK TAPIT enters having run 3rd at class and distance on March 26th when he settled right back and then ran on. He carries the same light weight today but draws much better and can go close again. (8) DUSON MEONGGUNG was 4th in that same race, having also gone back and closed strongly. He is yet to win but has been a prolific placer and should be in the mix again. (3) GWANGHAE has raced only twice and there was a five-month gap between them. He acquitted himself fairly though and looks nicely in here to improve. (9) DOLGYEOK APEURO another in the frame.

Selections(5) Raon The Tiger (7) Munhak Tapit (8) Duson Meonggun (3) Gwanghae
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start5, 8, 11, 12

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

(10) MIGHTY GEE will be hot favourite to score here. A winner at this class and distance two starts back, he then ran 2nd to Victor Moon when favourite, again at class and distance on March 27th, which several of today’s rivals behind him. He does give weight away to all but one of his opponents, but he should have too much. (4) MOST SPEED came home in 4th place in that race, continuing a positive run of form. She has run fair times at the distance and can push the favourite here. (2) QUICKLY SUN comes up in class following and all the way score at this distance on April 2nd. He drops significantly in the weights, and from a good draw, he should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (12) MUNHAK FIRE and (7) MONSTER K are among others who can enter the calculations.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 29)

There are eight races at Busan on Friday from 12:00 to 18:00. All betting locations are open as usual. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener, most of them fillies, and it’s hard to look past (1) DIABLO QUEEN. She led on debut on April 1st over this distance, ultimately finishing a good 2nd. She should have come on for the run and can win here. (2) HOLLYWOOD PARTY debuted back in January, running fairly over the 1000M. She too should have improved for that and can be a better prospect this time around. (7) HAENGBOKAN HAMAN is one of two first-time starters here. She went through two trials and improved significantly in the second of them, registering a good time, having settled back and ran on. She will have backers here. (10) TWOTWO ARCH GIRL and (5) SUPER CRACK are others who can place.

Selections(1) Diablo Queen (2) Hollywood Party (7) Haengbokan Haman (10) Twotwo Arch Girl
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 8

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

(6) MAJOR FORCE is yet to finish in the top two, but he has no fewer than ten top-five finishes from his seventeen starts. He was a beaten favourite last time when 4th at class and distance, but he has the fastest time of any of these at 1400M and today could be his day. (5) JIN MARK beat Major Force as the pair finished 2nd and 4th at this distance on April 15th. That continued her run of positive recent form, and she has every chance of going close again today. (1) GALLOP BOY is another long-time maiden who enters with recent form reading well. He beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 4th place over 1300M on his latest start on April 1st, and from a much better gate today, can be considered for better. Solitary debut-maker (9) WONDER GOAL trialed up well and along with (8) B J’S TERMS, can be considered for a place.

Selections(6) Major Force (5) Jin Mark (1) Gallop Boy (9) Wonder Goal
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (3) ARTIE’S GAL has been consistent across her eight starts to date including a solid last start 4th place over 1200M. She draws well to get on the early pace here and she has every chance of making a breakthrough. Following a good trial, (10) YASAENGHWA ran fairly on debut. She should have benefited from that and with some natural improvement, she can challenge here, despite the wide gate. (6) RHIANNON POINT comes in off a good 3rd place on her latest start on April 10th. She will be much shorter than the 100/1 she was sent off at in that race and has every chance of a place again. (8) HWARANG SKY and (5) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL are others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Artie’s Gal (10) Yasaenghwa (6) Rhiannon Point (8) Hwarang Sky
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

This is a very competitive race. (6) MONEY BAG is a potential winner, having run a very 2nd at class and distance on March 25th, when he settled handy and ran on. He looks nicely in here and with similar tactics can win today. (12) B.K. NEW MOON doesn’t get the best of the draw but looks similarly ready to win. She got promoted to this class with back-to-back 3rd place finishes and then ran an excellent 3rd over this distance on April 1st. She may need a bit of luck at the start but if she can find a decent position, she has every chance. (10) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG is another who is yet to win but has finished no worse than 5th across his five outings. At his latest, at class and distance on April 1st, he ran a good 2nd when sitting midfield and running on, and he enters the calculations here. (7) WONDERFUL FILE comes up in class following victory at this distance on April 15th. She is nicely weighted and can measure up. (1) SPICE INDIE is another in the hunt.

Selections(6) Money Bag (12) B. K. New Moon (10) Eunseong Yeongung (7) Wonderful File
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 12

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

Another very competitive race. (9) RAON THE FIGHTING was a smart winner at 1400M on March 25th when he sat handy to the speed early, before taking over and winning well. He comes up in both class and distance but should be able to cope with both and can win again here. (2) HWARANG ACE is another up in class and distance following a maiden win at start number four on March 27th. He draws very nicely to get to the front and is another who has every chance of measuring up at this level.  (6) HIT THE ROAD already has a 3rd place at class and distance to his name, when he beat a number of today’s rivals. He enters off a good 2nd place over 1400M at his latest start and should be a danger here. (12) TRIPLE STORM and (8) GREAT ONE are others who can place.

Selections(9) Raon The Fighting (2) Hwarang Ace (6) Hit The Road (12) Triple Storm
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

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

The banker favourite of the day goes around here in the shape of (10) MILLION BANK. She is yet to finish any worse than 4th in seven career starts and she won well at class and distance in February, beating a few of today’s rivals. At her latest start she was a beaten favourite at 1400M but back to this distance today, she looks hard to go past. (3) HAENAM HAMMER returns to action for the first time since last August. She had shown ability across her six outings before that and comes in having trialed up well. She may need this run but from a good draw, has every chance of going close. (8) ACE KILLER has proven consistent at this distance. He can sit back here and run on for another place. (5) MIRACLE SON and (2) TRAFFIC MARINE are among others who can go well.

Selections(10) Million Bank (3) Haenam Hammer (8) Ace Killer (5) Miracle Son
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 12

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Fillies and mares only here. Djordje Perovic is aiming to break the record for most wins by a foreign jockey in Korea and he has a chance here on (11) MY DESTINY. She has the fastest time of any of these at the distance, recorded when 3rd at her latest outing on a very wet track on March 18th. The draw is not in her favour here as she likes to be on pace but with a bit of luck at the start, she can be up there and can win. (7) ACHIM BIT has only won once in twenty-six appearances, but she has eleven top-three finishes and is ultra-consistent at this distance. She will settle midfield and can run on into some money. (3) SONHADOR won back-to-back races to get rapidly promoted to this class. She comes back in trip following a creditable enough effort over a mile on March 27th and should be in the mix here. (8) GOOD TANK and (6) QUEEN HARLEY among others to consider.

Selections(11) My Destiny (7) Achim Bit (3) Sonhador (8) Good Tank
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 11

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

(3) WORLD CHANGE has won five of his ten starts and comes in having been a beaten favourite at class and distance on March 25th when he led almost the entire way around, only to ne beaten by Hill More. He had a few of today’s rivals behind him though and will be favourite again to go one better. (9) TUHONUI BANSEOK returned to action on March 18th following six months out and he ran a very good 3rd place at class and distance. He comes up a couple of kilos as a result but should have come on for the run and can be competitive here too. (4) MALIBU BYEOL races for the first time since last November but looked well when trialing up earlier this month. He has placed at this distance at class 2 level and can be taken seriously here. (7) DOCTOR TAKE and (10) RAPID GAME among others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) World Change (9) Tuhonui Banseok (4) Malibu Byeol (7) Doctor Take
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 11, 12

Raon The Fighter Downed By Eoma Eoma In Sprint Series Opener

Raon The Fighter stumbled at the gate and ultimately went down to the very first defeat of his career as Eoma Eoma won the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M – KOR G3) at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Entering Sunday’s race a perfect ten from ten and having beaten the other big guns in the field in last autumn’s SROA Chairman’s Trophy Raon The Fighter was sent off a prohibitively short-priced favourite for the Busan Ilbo, the first leg of the Korean Sprint Series.

Eoma Eoma, who had looked a picture when parading, was second in the betting while a resurgent Blue Chipper was third in the market.

Calamity struck the favourite coming out of the gate.  Raon The Fighter stumbled and then dipped, losing any chance of getting to the lead. Jockey Lee Hyeok had a split-second decision to make and rather than dropping in behind, he opted to take Raon The Fighter up wide and to the speed. It was a gamble that didn’t pay off.

Eoma Eoma meanwhile got an easy tow to the lead from East Jet, who set the pace on his inside. Under Moon Se-young, Eoma Eoma would take up the running with just over a furlong left to travel and while Raon The Fighter finally appeared on the scene in the home straight and ran on bravely and gamely, he couldn’t get to the winner.

Eoma Eoma won by a full three-lengths with Raon The Fighter swooping late for a very competitive 2nd while Dixie Again was a revelation in 3rd.

Winning jockey Moon Se-young was uncharacteristically emotional after the race and, swerving questions about the run of Raon The Fighter, he talked to in-house broadcaster KRBC only about his own mount.

“I thought Eoma Eoma was working so well this week, so I really need to thank the guys who came down to Busan and prepared him so well” said Moon Se-young. “I only rode him the last two days in trackwork, so it is nothing to do with me, they prepared him perfectly – really when you guys (KRBC) asked me how he was on Thursday, well, I almost wanted to hide how good he was doing.”

Moon went on to describe what it meant to him personally to win the race. “I usually ride in Seoul, but I am from Busan. I am a Busan guy. I grew up in Milyang (northern Busan suburb) so I have desperately wanted to win a big race in Busan; in my home town. It had never happened for me before, but now it has.”

It might be a blemish on his record, and Raon The Fighter is now probably not going to break Mister Park’s unbeaten streak. However, he didn’t lose much in terms of reputation, and he will surely win many more.

Blue Chipper, who was sent off as third in the market but who ultimately crossed the line a long last, was found to have bled.

The next leg of the Sprint Series is the SROA Chairman’s Sprint at Seoul on May 22nd before the final leg in the SBS Sports Sprint, also in the capital on June 19th. The Korea Sprint itself is on September 4th.

Busan Ilbo Sprint Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (April 24)

The Busan Ilbo Sprint is the highlight of a big day’s racing in Korea this Sunday. See here for a full horse by horse preview of the race. The Busan Ilbo is race 5 on a 6-race card at Busan from 12:00 to 16:45, while at Seoul there are 11 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All racecourses and betting locations are open to spectators and attendance can either be booked using the MyCard app, while non-reserved seating is available on the gate. Here are the previews:

Can Raon he FIghter make it 11 from 11 in the Busan Ilbo Sprint? (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old filly maidens in the opener and it is very competitive with several holding genuine winning chances. Based on her lively debut, we’re putting (8) GREEN DRAGON on top. She sat handy and ran on well for 2nd in a fair time at this distance and while she was well beaten by a good winner, should have come on for the experience and a similar run will mean she isn’t far away. (7) GORGEOUS SERVE improved at start number two on March 13th when beating a couple of today’s rivals on her way to 4th place at this distance. She has drawn wide in both her starts so far and has gone back but gets a better gate today and should be close. (5) HERA BLADE has raced four times with the latest her best on April 9th, when 3rd at this distance having been on pace throughout. She backs up at the earliest opportunity here and is expected to be on the speed again and in this a long way. (2) MUSTANG CHARM and (6) WIDAEHAN HANMA others who appear on the right trajectory.

Selections(8) Green Dragon (7) Gorgeous Serve (5) Hera Blade (2) Mustang Charm
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

Another tricky maiden. (11) SINJURYU comes in off a smart 2nd place behind King Crush at this distance on March 20th. The time was fast, although it was assisted by the wet track, but it wasn’t the first time he has shown ability and despite the wide draw, there isn’t much early speed here and he can go one better. (10) GUK HYANG returned from over six months out in January and has run an encouraging 5th and 3rd, both times over today’s trip and both times settling midfield and pushing on late. She could be peaking third-up here and has claims. (12) SKY FUTURE is a wildcard. He raced three times up to March last year, registering a 2nd and two 3rd placed finishes. He didn’t offer many clues in a trial just last week and will obviously need this but if he has retained his ability, then he can go well first-up. (2) NEW SMART comes into the calculations following a good 3rd place in an all-filly race over this distance on April 10th. She draws a better gate today, should be on pace, and is a chance. (6) CHEONDUNG OREUM another with minor money hopes.

Selections(11) Sinjuryu (10) Guk Hyang (12) Sky Future (2) New Smart
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 11

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

Without an abundance of confidence here, we’ll side with the probable favourite (3) CHEONGSAN YEONGUNG. He enters here following a 5th and a 4th in his latest two starts, both at 1700M and last time overcoming the widest gate and beating a couple of today’s rivals. The step back in trip can suit and he can sit off the pace and run on. (7) TOUGH YEOJE showed signs that she is figuring things out when running an improved 2nd at start number three over 1200M on March 26th when she came from well back and worked home strongly. She was beaten a long way by a good winner but with more improvement plus an extra half furlong to play with, she can be close today. (12) QUEEN OF RACING may need a touch of luck early from the widest gate, but her recent form reads adequately enough to suggest she can play a role here. (5) BIG ENERGY and (6) SMART BLUE are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(3) Cheongsan Yeongung (7) Tough Yeoje (12) Queen Of Racing (5) Big Energy
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start1, 9, 11, 12

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

(4) YEONGGWANGUI POWER races for the first time since February 2021. He had looked ready to win before his injury and he went through a trial last October in fine style but didn’t make it back to race at that time. He completed another trial two weeks ago in a fast time. It’s not impossible he can defy the sixty-three-week layoff and win first-up here. If that puts you off, then (5) CROWD ONE is the probable favourite. Her best finish was 2nd place three starts back but she has since run twice fairly at this distance. The Moon-factor aboard will ensure she gets plenty of backing, she should be on pace from the start, and she can go all the way. (9) WIND CROSS has been consistent over his four appearances so far. He has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before and should be in the finish again here. (1) FANTASTIC MAGIC and (3) VICTORY NINE among others in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Yeonggwangui Power (5) Crowd One (9) Wind Cross (1) Fantastic Magic
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

(11) RAON THE TEUKGEUP’s solitary win came over 1200M at class 6 level last November and after two indifferent runs to start his class 5 campaign, showed he was back to form with a 3rd place, again at 1200M on March 12th when he went right back and powered home. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and the extra half-furlong can suit, giving him solid claims to go close here. (9) CHAMPION GAMUN is a winner at this distance at class 6 level. His two efforts at this class have also been at the 1300M and he has run well. A front-runner, he should be on pace from the start, and it would be no surprise were he to go all the way.  (1) HAPPY MIX had a hard time on her first try at this class following a maiden win over 1200M in February. She drew wide that day and it was a very wet track, so she has excuses and from a much better draw and probably in different conditions, she can be given another chance. (5) JEONGSANG FIGHTING and (7) SAINT LUCCA others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(11) Raon The Teukgeup (9) Champion Gamun (1) Happy Mix (5) Jeongsang Fighting
Next Best7, 12
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (5) STELL LUNA had a poor day at the officer when favourite for a similar race at class and distance on March 11th when she raced relatively prominently early but was flat in the home straight, ultimately finishing 7th of twelve and beaten by two of today’s rivals. That was her second disappointing run in a row but previously she had shown plenty of ability with some fast times, especially when winning at this distance and she is worth a third chance here. (8) BORAMI gained her sole victory at 1000M but didn’t run badly when overcoming gate fourteen to run 5th on her first try at this class over 1200M on February 18th. She has had a couple of months off since then and with an apprentice making for a very light weight, she can be competitive here. (6) SUNSET MELODY comes back in trip following a good 3rd at 1400M on March 25th when she was a little more forward a bit earlier than in other recent starts. She can be in the finish again. (9) SLIM QUEEN comes back in trip and into the calculations while (10) SANGIM YEOWANG is another to consider.

Selections(5) Stell Luna (8) Borami (6) Sunset Melody (9) Slim Queen
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 11

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

(7) MONEY GARAK has beaten a few of these across his three outings at this class since his maiden win at this distance on Christmas Day. At his latest start, he was a close 3rd at class and distance on March 27th, having come from off the pace. He will settle midfield again and can prove too strong. (10) MIGHTY GOOD didn’t do a whole lot on his first two outings but pulled off a good win at start number three over 1200M on March 27th at class 6 level when he flew home from almost last to first in the home straight. He is up in class here but down in the weights and the additional furlong should suit. (8) HANGANG CHAMP ran 5th behind Money Garak in the March 27th race. He is yet to win in six attempts but has three runner-up finishes, including one at this class over 1300M and he can be competitive here. (12)  NAMSAN YEOLMAE and the returning (1) CHODONG ROCKET among others with placing claims.

Selections(7) Money Garak (10) Mighty Good (8) Hangang Champ (12) Namsan Yeolmae
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 11
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ROAD TO KOREA SPRINT BEGINS SUNDAY WITH RAON THE FIGHTER SEEKING PERFECT ELEVEN

After a two-year enforced hiatus, the Korea International races are to return in September and the local contenders take their first step towards the first weekend in September as ten of the nation’s fastest gallopers line up for the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M – KORG3) on Sunday afternoon, the first leg of the three-race series that concludes with the International Korea Sprint.

The winner of the last Korea Sprint to be held in 2019, Blue Chipper, takes his place in the gate. But it is a sign of the strength of the race that the six-year-old, who went on to run 3rd in that year’s Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile at Santa Anita, won’t be in the top two of the betting, despite a bullet trial at the end of last month.

Instead, most eyes will be on Raon The Fighter, the brilliant Bayern four-year-old, who is yet to be tested in ten starts, all of which he has won effortlessly. He has usurped Eoma Eoma, who had the misfortune to emerge on the scene just as racing was closing down in early 2020 and he dominated when racing for the reduced prize money on offer in behind-closed-doors racing. He did though win last October’s SBS Sports Sprint and at five, still has plenty to offer.

East Jet is a Graded Stakes winner at sprint distances too and will be another at the head of the market, while along with Blue Chipper, the up-and-coming Yeongung Louis heads Busan’s challenge. Here is a run-down of the field.

1. EAST JET (KOR) [Strike Again – Lend (Coronado’s Quest)] – A Group winner, he began the year running 2nd to Raon First in the Segye Ilbo Cup, having led for much of the way around. He then stepped up to 1400M when he, alongside Eoma Eoma, had a testing day at the office.

The 1200M suits him better, he draws the inside gate and while a place chance might be realistic, he will be in this a long way.

2. EOMA EOMA (USA) [Algorithms – Lignite (Run Away And Hide) – A winner of ten including the SBS Sports Sprint. Disregard his last start on March 20th, when on a very wet track he uncharacteristically settled midfield and while he did make up ground in the straight, appeared to hang in a little and was well back behind the winner, Dixie Again. The time before, on January 9th, he ran 4th behind Raon The Fighter when giving away plenty of weight, and ahead of Dixie Again. He is nicely drawn today and at level weights, things might be closer

3. YEONGUNG LOUIS (USA) [Violence – Don’t Stop To Shop (Unbridled’s Song)] – an up and comer having won his last 2 starts, the last in Class 1. He is better known as a 1400m horse but has won over 1200m at lower levels At his last start on March 27th, which was at 1400M he was an excellent five-length winner over a field that contained, Doctor Carson and the former champion sprinter Doraonpogyeongseon, both of whom go again in the Busan Ilbo. If there is too much pace up front, Yeongung Louis may be the closer and while he is very much up in class, he could measure up.

4. RAON THE FIGHTER (KOR) [Bayern – Clarinda (Empire Maker)] – The current hottest property in Korean racing. He has been flawless in ten starts so far, winning them all and is now only seven short of equaling the all-time record for consecutive wins. He has run super times at this distance, eased down and at his latest start on February 20th, he overcame gate thirteen to ease to the front and win by eight lengths from one of today’s rivals, Dixie Again. The time before on January 9th, he comfortably beat a field containing Eoma Eoma and Dixie Again. He likes to race forward so and will be very hard to beat from a nice draw.

5. MIRACLE DREAMING (KOR) [Federalist – Miracle Worker (Menifee)] – Not a prolific winner but he has fifteen top-three finishes from twenty starts. Enters off a good 3rd place at this distance at class 1 level in February behind Daemangui Gil and Heat Yegam when on pace throughout. He has run solid times, but it is hard to see him being able to run the kind of time that would be needed to beat some of today’s rivals.

6. DORAONPOGYEONGSEON (USA) [Kantharos – Smartybegone (Smarty Jones)] – A two-time SBS Sports Sprint winner, the nine-year-old perhaps has his best days behind him but he is still able to run a good race, as evidenced by his 3rd place over 1400M at class 1 in January. He settles midfield or further back and runs home strong, but he will probably find himself with far too much to do against this kind of speed.

7. SINGSING MARY (USA) [With Distinction – Amylimehouse (Limehouse)] – The probable longest shot on the board and the only mare in the race. She is still at class 2 but there is space in the race, and she takes her chance here. It is a very slim chance. Does get a 2kg allowance on the rest of the field.

8. DIXIE AGAIN (KOR) [Ecton Park – Wild Dixie Gal (Wild Event)] – A winner of eight from sixteen, he took a while to get to grips with class 1 level but ran (a distance) 2nd to Raon The Fighter at this distance in February, before upsetting Eoma Eoma and East Jet on a wet track over 1400M on March 20th. He was getting plenty of weight in those races and today will ne harder. Half-brother to multiple Korean Graded winners Beolmaui Kkum and Kkakjaengi.

9. DOCTOR CARSON (KOR) [Hansen – Carson’s Cat (Mountain Cat)] – He came to prominence in a series of wins over Blue Chipper when well weighted in handicaps throughout last spring and summer during the reduced prize-money racing season but has just come up a little short in the biggest races at level. At his last start, he was 4th behind Yeongung Louis at 1700M. He has run fast times for the distance and can be competitive but minor money would be a good result.

10. BLUE CHIPPER (USA) [Tiznow – Dixie City (Dixie Union)] – The 2019 Korea Sprint winner and Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile 3rd placegetter has had his setbacks over the past couple of years but showed he remains a force on his day with victory at 2000M at class 1 level in January. He hasn’t raced since but stormed home in a trial on a wet track on March 26th. The draw is unkind, but the quality is there and at level weights, don’t rule out a good run.

Selections: (4) Raon The Fighter (2) Eoma Eoma (1) East Jet (3) Yeongung Louis

The Busan Ilbo Sprint is race 5 on the six-race card at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon and has a post time of 15:55 local time.

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