SROA Trophy – Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 20)

It’s a rare Saturday Stakes at Seoul as nine sprinters line up in the SROA (Owners’ Association) Chairman’s Trophy over 1200M. They include SBS Sports Sprint winner Eoma Eoma and last year’s winner East Jet, as well as the unbeaten up and coming three-year-old Raon The Fighter. The big race is race 8 of a ten-race card in the capital that runs from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open to customers however there is no walk-up admission and all attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

The sprinters reconvene at Seoul on Saturday

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the twelve racing for the first time. One of those debut-makers is set to be the favourite in the shape of (7) RAON THE GOLD. The Musket Man filly looked very accomplished when going around in 2nd place in a trial in a good time last month. She should be on the speed here from the start, Moon Se-young rides and she is the one to beat. Of those with prior experience, (4) MAY BLADE and (3) WILD SOCKS both put in capable debuts over this distance running 5th and 6th respectively, both over this distance. Both draw well here and can show progress. (8) DUSON DRIVE too didn’t do too much wrong on his first-start a month ago and can improve today. Returning to the debut-makers, (11) JANGSAN POISON is another who trialed up promisingly.

Selections(7) Raon The Gold (4) May Blade (3) Wild Socks (8) Duson Drive
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile first-timers with precisely half the field of twelve making their racing debuts. (6) P N S GOLD won a trial in fine style on November 22nd, finishing in front of Raon The Gold, who was scheduled to debut in race 1. The Klimt filly carries a very light weight here and looks the one to beat. (10) SUNNY BLADE ran adequately on debut, settling back in midfield and running on for 5th in a fair time. She can improve here. (8) RALLY QUEEN ran around for 6th on her debut and while well back behind an excellent winner, showed enough thing at some potential. Returning to the debut-makers, (12) FOREVER KHAN trialed up pleasingly in a good time just two weeks ago. He has the disadvantage of the draw here but may be considered. So too (1) HWIPARAM who worked forward from a wide gate in her trial and ran on well.

Selections(6) P N S Gold (10) Sunny Blade (8) Rally Queen (12) Forever Khan
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Yet more juvenile maidens but all of these have raced at least once. It’s hard to look too far past (6) HWARANG TODAY. After winning a trial, he debuted on October 23rd over 1000M and sat midfield before running on strongly for 2nd in a good time behind a promising winner. The additional furlong should be in his favour, and he can win this. From caller’s perspective, (8) THE FAVORITE is somewhat irritatingly named, but she has shown ability over her two starts to date, finishing 4th and 3rd at 1000M, both in good times. She too may appreciate the greater distance and can be competitive here. (3) HATMURI has a similar record to Hwarang Today, having won a trial before running a decent 3rd on debut on October 16th. That day’s runner-up went on to win last week so the form from the race is holding up and it would be no surprise if Hatmuri were to go close here. (2) RAON THE TEUKGEUP and (9) EUNHYE are others in the frame.

Selections(6) Hwarang Today (8) The Favorite (3) Hatmuri (2) Raon The Teukgeup
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 10

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

(5) CHEONMA BISANG has a 5th and a 2nd from two starts so far and looks ready to win here. She has got a little far back in both starts so far but has run on well both times and today finally draws well instead of very wide. She may take some beating. (3) K N TEUKGEUP wasn’t too far away from 6th over this distance and in a fair time at the end of October. A similar run today should put him in the finish. (4) MAESTRO comes in after back to back 5th place finishes, the latter at 1400M. He hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but he sees out his races nicely enough and that can be enough to have him in at least the placing frame here. (7) DDATTEUTHANBIT and (6) RED MOUNTAIN perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(5) Cheonma Bisang (3) K N Teukgeup (4) Maestro (7) Ddatteuthanbit
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky one as nothing is hugely convincing. We’ll take a chance on (5) TK PLEX, who comes in first-up here having last been seen in July. That day he ran 3rd under Munro, having run on well. It’s a fresh start here and from a nice gate he has as good a chance as any, probably at a decent price. Likely favourite is (2) BIG ENERGY. His latest three have been strong with a pair of 4ths and most recently a runner-up finish in a fair time at this distance on October 31st. He draws well and won’t need to improve much to win this. (9) TEN BAGGER has improved across three starts so far with 4th place at 1000M being his most recent. He comes up in trip here but he has gone well back in all three appearances so far before running on, so it may suit, and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (3) MUNHAK FOREST and (1) PEPE RUN are the other conceivable placers.

Selections(5) T K Plex (2) Big Energy (9) Ten Bagger (3) Munhak Forest
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 7
(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 19)

There is Stakes race action at both Seoul and Busan this weekend in the shape of the respective track’s “Owners Association Trophies”. Seoul’s is on Saturday and features Eoma Eoma taking on old rivals East Jet and Morfhis, as well as unbeaten up-and-comer Raon The Fighter over 1200M. On Sunday, Busan’s version is over a mile and involves Blue Chipper, Doctor Carson, Tiz Plan and the unbeaten Success Macho. The action gets underway though at Busan on Friday with a standard 7-race card from 12:40 to 18:00. All racecourses and betting locations are open to customers this weekend, however attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are Friday’s previews:

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

Juvenile maidens here with seven of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) OCEAN STORM impressed across two trials a week apart in early October, especially in the latter of them when held together to lead all the way around in a good time on the bridle. If she can bring that form to the races, she has an excellent chance of an immediate breakthrough. (1) SHY DRAGON ran a good 2nd on debut when on pace throughout. She faded back in the field on her second attempt on October 22nd having worked hard to get forward from a wide draw, From the inside today she should get an easier run and has solid claims. Like Ocean Storm, (4) MIGHTY STORM was held together similarly well in a front-running trial and can go well first-up. (11) INSATIABLE ran well on debut when wide early before shifting across the fence and running on. She may need to do similar from the widest gate today. (5) BAEK GU is another of the debut-makers who showed ability in trials.

Selections(9) Ocean Storm (1) Shy Dragon (4) Mighty Storm (11) Insatiable
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(4) CATCH THE SKY is set to be favourite having come from off the pace to run a good 2nd behind Lane Killer at class and distance on October 31st, beating several of these in the process. That was his first go at a mile and it seemed to suit and he can go one better this time. The main dangers all come out of that race too. (5) OLD CHEONHA showed some improvement in that race, running 5th. He draws slightly better today and can continue to improve. (3) CHEONGMA YEONGUNG was 4th in the race. He usually goes right back and runs on but was ridden in midfield that day and a similar run can be expected here. (1) ROCKET GO was on pace throughout in the October 31st race, ultimately ending up a surprise 2nd. He draws well here and should be in the mix again. If that October race doesn’t impress, then among those who didn’t take part in it, (6) KING GRACE is perhaps the pick.

Selections(4) Catch The Sky (5) Old Cheonha (3) Cheongma Yeongung (1) Rocket Go
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A very competitive race with numerous possible winners. (3) GOLD LUCK comes in off a 4th place just a couple of weeks ago when he led for much of the way only to weaken a little in the final furlong of a mile. He comes back down in trip today and strongly into contention. (8) AFLEET TAPIT returned from four months out to win a good 2nd over this distance on October 29th. He comes up in class but down in the weights and should measure up here. (11) DOCTOR PHARAOH never really got going on his first go at this class over 1200M in early October. He steps up to this distance for the first time and is perhaps worth another chance here. (9) DONGBANUI SIJAK is a winner at this class over a mile and also has the fastest time of any of these over this distance. He can come from off the pace and should be doing his best work late here. (2) WILD BLUE another in at least the placing frame.

Selections(3) Gold Luck (8) Afleet Tapit (11) Doctor Pharaoh (9) Dongbanui Sijak
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 11

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

(9) WONDERFUL KING was a winner at this distance at class 5 level three starts back and has since run 2nd and 3rd in two goes at this class over 1200M and 1400M. He comes up slightly in the weights but carries similar to when he won and can settle behind the lead and run on to win here. (8) NAMDO QUEEN had a hard time in last month’s Luna Stakes Oaks trial. She comes back in trip and into much more amenable waters here and should improve. (2) CAPTAIN GIRL comes up in class following a front-running win at this distance on October 24th. It was in a decent time too, and from a good draw she should be competitive at this level. (11) MINYEOBONG and (5) MASTER QUEEN came home 4th and 5th respectively when they raced each other at class and distance on October 22nd and both should be in the hunt for the places here.

Selections(9) Wonderful King (8) Namdo Queen (2) Captain Girl (11) Minyeobong
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 12

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

A small but competitive field here. (8) GALLANT WARRIOR is set to be the favourite and is probably the one to beat having scored a good class and distance 3rd on October 29th with three of today’s rivals behind him. The draw shouldn’t matter and can run on strong. (3) LANE KILLER comes up in both class and distance following a maiden win at start number four over 1600M three weeks ago when leading from gate to wire. There is nothing too much to fear here and he can fit in at this level. (4) GEUMA GOOD POINT comes back up in trip following a solid 3rd over a mile at his latest start a month ago. He is a potential early leader here and should be in contention for a long time. (7) CENTUM THOR is yet to win in ten attempts but consistently picks up minor money and can do the same here. (2) TRIPLE STORM, up in class and distance after scoring over 1200M in October, is the wildcard.

Selections(8) Gallant Warrior (3) Lane Killer (4) Geuma Good Point (7) Centum Thor
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

(11) CLEAN SHOT overcame the same wide draw to run 2nd at class and distance on October 15th when he settled back, improved to midfield and then ran on well. He is yet to win in nine attempts but that continued a consistent run of form since coming up in trip and he should be there or thereabouts again here. (9) TOP MATE has won just the once but has seven runner-up finishes to his name from thirteen starts. He comes in following a rare 3rd place at class and distance on October 17th and while he carries plenty of weight, should be in contention. So too (12) ADELE PUPIL. She had a poor day at the office in that October race behind Top Mate but previously registered a 2nd place at this distance at class 3 level. Barrier twelve at 1800M at Busan is a hard ask but she can overcome it. (10) DUNCAN and surprise last-start winner (1) YEONGBONGSAN are others in the frame.

Selections(11) Clean Shot (9) Top Mate (12) Adele Pupil (10) Duncan
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 9, 10, 12

Busan Race 7: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

After having a hard time over 1800M and in the KRA Cup Mile, (7) MACH TITAN returned to winning ways over a mile at class 3 level on November 7th and quickly backs up here in class 2 company for the first time. He comes back in trip but draws fairly enough and he has enough ability to win this. The main danger appears to be (10) SONIC KING IJI. He was a winner at this class over 1200M in a super time two starts back and while he could only manage 4th over this distance at his latest outing on October 15th, he needs to be taken seriously here. (8) AKER’S DREAM enters in very consistent form and while he comes up in class here he comes down significantly in weight and his times are competitive for this level. (12) JANGSAN DOKKI comes back to one-turn for the first time in a while and looks nicely in despite the wide draw. The up in class (6) QUEEN OF THE WORLD another who can enter the calculations.

Selections(7) Mach Titan (10) Sonic King Iji (8) Aker’s Dream (12) Jangsan Dokki
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 12

Luigi Riccardi & Antonio Da Silva Win Korean Oaks With Choegang Black

Luigi Riccardi landed his biggest winner to date as a trainer in Korea as Choegang Black denied hot favourite Raon Pink to win the Korea Oaks at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Choegang Black was sent off as a 70/1 outsider for the filly Classic having skipped the Luna Stakes prep race and having only won up to class 5 level in Seoul. The Oaks has a habit of producing an unexpected winner though and when Raon Pink was a little awkwardly away after a start that had been delayed following the reluctance of Queens Tour to load, it was clear that the race was anyone’s.

Pureun Jangmi showed the way early with Luna runner-up Jedi for company along with Miss Indie and 2nd-favourite Doctor Fappiano. Antonio Da Silva meanwhile, kept Choegang Black just behind the leading group throughout the early and middle stages of the 1800M race.

At the top of the stretch Raon Pink, under Park Tae Jong, loomed large and one-by-one the challengers fell away. All except Choegang Black that is, who to the inside of the favourite struck the front with a furlong and a half remaining and ran on superbly to win by just over a length on the line.

Raon Pink was 2nd while Serve Ace and Alan Munro came from last to 3rd in the space of the home straight. Queens Tour was 4th and Eodigana 5th as Seoul fillies swept the top-five placings

For Luigi Riccardi, who has been licensed in Korea since the end of 2017, it was by far his biggest local win. For jockey Antonio Da Silva, it was a third Group winner in Korea following success on Dolkong in the 2019 KRA Cup Classic, and Munhak Chief in the Grand Prix the same year.

Choegang Black is by Purge and is out of Allwise (by Mr. Greeley). She was bred by Nokwon Farm and is owned by Lee Kang-woon.

Korean Oaks 2021: Runner-By Runner Preview

Raon Pink was a crushing winner of the Luna Stakes last month and on Sunday the Musket Man filly returns to Busan as the hot favourite to win the 2021 Korean Oaks (1800M KOR-G2). The Oaks is race 6 on Busan’s Sunday card with a post time of 15:50 in Busan. CLICK HERE FOR SUNDAY’S RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW

Raon Pink, seen here in the Luna Stakes Parade Ring returns to Busan as favourite for the Korean Oaks

Remarkably, of the twelve who will line up, no fewer than nine of them have travelled down from Seoul, including Raon Pink, who won the Luna Stakes by a full eight-lengths on October 17th. That was over a mile, but such was her superiority, few expect the additional furlong to cause problems.

Busan may only field three but among them is something One thing that Raon Pink didn’t have to contend with in the Luna, and that’s Doctor Fappiano. Long thought of as the most forward filly of her crop, the Old Fashioned filly missed the Luna due to a setback but takes her chance in the Oaks as likely second-favourite.

Doctor Fappiano has won at the 1800M distance already and was only three-lengths behind subsequent Derby winner Winner’s Man when they faced each other in August.

All top-five placegetters from the Luna Stakes return for the Oaks while Miss Indie, who finished back in the pack that day, will be expected go better. In addition to Doctor Fappiano, the likes of Cupid Point, Pureun Jangmi and Choegang Black make for interesting newcomers to the Filly Triple Crown trail.

Long-shots have prevailed in the most recent editions of the Korean Oaks, with Ottug Ottugi in 2016, the last pre-race favourite to win the race. Here is a full run down of all the runners:  

1. SMART OFFICER [Officer- So Chic (Private Terms)] – Has only raced five times and won u to class 5 level over 1300M. In the Luna Stakes she was the slowest away and a long last on settling but by the corner had tacked onto the field and looked full of running. She then made excellent ground wide to run 3rd, a super run in the circumstances. Based on that she can’t be ruled out.

2. CHOEGANG BLACK [Purge – Allwise (Mr. Greeley)] – Gets her chance following a class 5 win over 1400M at class 5 level last month when handy to the lead before running on strong in a good time. Two starts back she came from midfield to run 3rd in a fair time over 1700M, her only experience of racing around two-turns. She won’t be among the favourites here, but she draws nicely to find a good position and a top jockey has been persuaded to go down to ride her. Could be interesting.

3. RAON PINK [Musket Man – Pink Candy (Southern Image)] – A filly who has been in outstanding form and in the Luna Stakes jumped well and worked to the lead setting a good pace and slipped away from the field on the corner to go well clear and was still strong at the finish. It’s an extra furlong today but she draws the same gate as in the Luna and a similar performance will make her very hard to beat. Full-sister to Raon First, established at class 1.

4. CUPID POINT [Concord Point – A Girl Named Phil (Distorted Humor)] – Enters in very good form with two wins from her last three. Last time out over 1700M at class 4 level she sat handy to the lead before running on in the final furlong for victory in a good time. That was at the end of August so she has had a bit of time out but from a good draw and under a top jockey, she can go well. Look for her running on late.

5. EODIGANA [Smarty Moonhak – Beneficial Friend (Street Boss)] – Great to see a Smarty Moonhak running in a big race and while she won’t be among the favourites, she is one of only two in the field who has won over 1800M. That came at her latest start on October 10th at class 4 level when she sat behind the lead before taking things up just over a furling out and running on for a comfortable win. This is harder but she can be competitive.

6. SERVE ACE [Tiz Wonderful – Havisham (Bernardini)] – A super winner over 1400M at class 5 level in July she has been perhaps a touch disappointing in her latest two when 6th behind Cupid Point in August and then 4th at her latest four weeks ago, both over 1700M at class 4. She can lead or settle back and run on and Munro remaining loyal and traveling down is a plus, but others are favoured.

7. JEDI [Cowboy Cal – Bichui Yeowang (Midnight Lute)] – Showed promise as a juvenile and has maintained her form this year. She only has three wins from eleven, her latest being at class 4 over 1200M in June but she ran a big race to finish 2nd in the Luna Stakes when settling withing striking distance before saving ground on the turn and then running on strong to the line. Ran 2nd on her only try at 1700M at class 5 level so distance not a concern and she should be in the placing frame again.

8. MISS INDIE [Indie Band – In Escrow (Vindication)] – Half-sister to Mr. Afleet, who won the KRA Cup Classic (KOR G2) over 2000M at Seoul three weeks ago. Her wins came at class 6 level but her two runner-up finishes were behind Hill More and Alpha Star, both of whom are useful. She was away well from the inside gate in the Luna and was prominent for a long time before Raon Pink’s tempo perhaps took its toll. Should have come on for the experience and with likely less early intensity in this race, can improve.

9. QUEENS TOUR [Colors Flying – Daisy A Day (Smart Strike)] – Sole win to date came ay class 6 level over 1400M but she’s earned her spot here through a 5th place in the Luna, when she settled in the rear division but finished strongly, passing plenty of tired fillies in the final coupe of furlongs. Likely to employ similar tactics today, minor money again would be a very good result.

10. DOCTOR FAPPIANO [Old Fashioned – Feversham (Distorted Humor)] – A setback caused her to miss the Luna Stakes, a race for which she would have been favourite. That was before the blistering performance of Raon Pink but Doctor Fappiano has excellent claims. She ran 3rd behind subsequent Korean Derby winner Winner’s Man two starts back at class 2 level over this distance and then stepped back to class 3 and won, again at today’s distance on September 5th. She is a front-runner, so Raon Pink has got the better of the draw but don’t rule her out. Big Chance.

11. PUREUN JANGMI [Old Fashioned – Dancing Desire (Mr. Greeley)] – Lightly raced with just four starts but she has two wins and two runner-up finishes, including her latest, an all the way score over 1400M at class 5 level on October 15th. This is stiffer and it is not easy from a wide gate over 1800M at Busan. She clearly has potential though and the trainer/jockey combination will make plenty take note. Interesting wildcard.

12. YEONGGWANGUI MISO [Hansen – Perfect Scip (Scipion)] – Gets her chance here having run 4th in the Luna when settling midfield from a similarly wide barrier and in the straight challenged Jedi in 3rd all the way in a run full of merit. She will need plenty of luck from the widest barrier, but she should be able to give a good account of herself again.

Oaks Day 2021: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (November 14)

The 2021 Korean Oaks will be run at Busan on Sunday afternoon – full horse-by-horse preview to follow. There are 7 races at Busan from 11:10 to 16:40 and 10 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. The racecourses and all betting locations are open at restricted capacity, however, there is no walk-in admission and attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is also required. Here are the previews:

Uaryung won the Oaks last year (Pic: KRA)

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

A small field of juvenile maidens assemble for the opener with a few standouts. Both of (5) CHEONJI JIDAE’s starts to date have been over 1000M and both times he has recorded decent times, finishing in 3rd and 4th and running on well. He steps up to 1200M here and should have solid claims to be on pace throughout. The main danger is (8) CHAMJOEUN CHINGU. She too has operated only at 1000M prior to today and ran an improved 3rd on her second start on October 17th. She’s from a red-hot stable and can continue to show progress here. (6) SPEED GALLOP similarly improved to 2nd place at start number two on October 10th. She was a long way behind a good winner, but she ran on well and the additional furlong may suit. Solitary debut-maker (3) TITAN SOCKS led in his most recent trial, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place in a fair time and can go well first-up. (4) JILJUE BADA is one of only two who have tackled the distance before and could challenge for the places.

Selections(5) Cheonji Jidae (8) Chamjoeun Chingu (6) Speed Gallop (3) Titan Socks
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

Small field of two and three-year-old maidens. (8) WONDERFUL FAGER looks set to be the one to beat, despite returning from twenty-two weeks out. He’s finished 3rd in three of his four starts and finished in that very same position in a trial two weeks ago. He can sit handy here and run on strong. (2) DAEHO NURI comes in having taken his chance in a Listed juvenile race last time out when he ran 6th of ten in a fair time over this distance. He showed handy to the lead that day and will be expected to do similar today with solid claims to be in this a long way. Also likely to be on pace this time will be (3) ADELE CHUKBAE, who may appreciate the step up in trip. All three of his starts so far have been at 1000M and with a slightly less intense early part of the race here, he can find a better position. (5) NEW CROWN and (6) WONDERFUL DIGGER are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(8) Wonderful Fager (2) Daeho Nuri (3) Adele Chukbae (5) New Crown
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

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

Big field and from the inside spot, (1) SARYEONI FIRST may prove hard to beat. He ran 2nd to Aspen Taeyang on debut before finishing 3rd behind Meni Wonderful and Icheon Arch at his second start on October 3rd. Both were over 1000M, and he made good ground late both times. The additional furlong can suit, and he’ll be favourite to salute at the third time of asking. (3) LONDON POWER enters off a good 4th place finish at class and distance on October 16th. She draws similarly well today and should be able to grab an early lead. She won’t necessarily be easy to go past. There is one first-time starter in the shape of (5) BE CRAZY. There are sure to be plenty of eyes on the three-year-old gelding as he is a half-brother to top line Seoul-based sprinter East Jet. He won a barrier trial in an unhurried fashion a month ago and has every chance of going well first-up. (10) SMART JEONSA and (6) DONGSEO YEOGEOL are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(1) Saryeoni First (3) London Power (5) Be Crazy (10) Smart Jeonsa
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

After an inauspicious debut, (10) DAEJI CHOICE has run well in three subsequent starts including a 3rd place in the Listed Areumdaun Jilju n Stakes for juveniles at his latest outing on October 3rd over 1200M when he emerged out of the pack late on, a long way behind the winner but well clear of 4th. The step up in trip may be to his benefit and he can win here. The big danger is (3) DAEHOMA. The three-year-old comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on October 17th when always on pace from the same gate he has drawn today and beating several of these in the process. He’ll be the one to aim at here and could go all the way. (8) HANSEN ICHEON races for the third time, having improved to run 3rd behind Daehoma at start number two. He was on pace that day and is likely to be challenging for the lead again here. (11) GIANT CAL and (1) GWANGDAESEUNGCHEON, who also went in that race, are others in the hunt.

Selections(10) Daeji Choice (3) Daehoma (8) Hansen Icheon (11) Giant Cal
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

(1) JIGEUMYEOGIE did precisely nothing across twelve starts at sprint distances up until August. He was then given a couple of months off, trialed up well and then tried over 1700M for the first time, a distance at which he proceeded to make up excellent late ground and to run 2nd. The time was not quick but quick is one thing he will not need to be in this race and frankly, he is hard to oppose. (6) HANI ran 4th behind Jigeumyeogie at his latest start and that’s enough to bring him too into contention here while (3) TAEYANGTAGO also scored a career-best 4th on her first try at this distance a month ago and similarly can be looking to go at least one better today. As for the rest, (10) SOUTH BAN and (2) SAENAE HWANGJE perhaps have the best chance of competing for a place.

Selections(1) Jigeumyeogie (6) Hani (3) Taeyangtago (10) South Ban
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) PURE KING is the one to beat here. A good winner over 1200M at class 6 level two starts back, he then beat a couple of these on his way to a runner-up finish on his first try at both this class and distance on October 8th when he was on pace throughout. He only comes up marginally in the weights and draws well again and should have enough to see off this small field. (4) MONGTTANG comes up in class having registered his maiden win when coming from midfield to score over 1200M just two weeks ago. The additional trip can suit and under a light weight and a nice draw, he should measure up at this level. (6) RUN FIGHTER and (2) DOCTOR TEXAS came home in 5th and 4th respectively behind Pure King a month ago and both can be considered for at least places here. (7) SMARTY DOLPUNG comes up in class and in distance following a coast-to-coast score over 1300M in September. He has had nine weeks off since but can’t be left out of the calculations here.

Selections(3) Pure King (4) Mongttang (6) Run Fighter (2) Doctor Texas
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Quite a good race with boosted prize money as it is a race where either the sire or dam of a runner must have raced in Korea. (7) WONDERFUL K is a perfect one for one at this distance having come from a handy position to score emphatically on his first crack at it at class 6 level on October 10th. He’ll probably need to run a faster time to repeat today but he looks to have scope for improvement. (1) TYCHE FIRE is a winner at this class and distance and comes in having run 4th in each of his latest four outings. He comes in having beaten a few of these at this latest start over 1400M, running on strong from the back as is his style and he will probably start as favourite here. (9) MAKALU POWER comes up in trip having run on well in his latest outings over shorter. A nineteen-race maiden, he doesn’t seem a likely winner but could place. (6) RUFFIAN PARK and (3) GYEONGBU DORYEONG are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(7) Wonderful K (1) Tyche Fire (9) Makalu Power (6) Ruffian Park
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 12

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

A good race but (8) WONDER BLADE should have the edge. He raced twice in October for 2nd and 4th places, both at this class, first at 1200M and then at 1400M. He does come up a full 4kg in the weights for that latest effort, but Perovic climbs back aboard, and he looks firmly in the hunt. (12) CLIFTON KING was a good winner on debut which led him to be sent off as favourite for the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes on October 3rd, a juvenile Listed race. That status was perhaps more to do with his stable rather than his actual prospects in that race, but he should have come on for the experience and can go much closer here. (2) NAMED races for the first time since getting her maiden win back in ay when she made all in a fast time at this distance. That in turn was nine-months after her debut as a juvenile so we know she can go well first up. She trialed up nicely a couple of weeks ago and gets a nice gate. (3) CROWN KING STAR comes up in class after a good win over the distance on October 15th. From a good gate he can sit handy and be competitive. (7) GLORY KING was well back behind Wonder blade on his first try at this class six weeks ago but has proven himself capable of running good times at this distance and is perhaps worth another chance here.

Selections(8) Wonder Blade (12) Clifton King (2) Named (3) Crown King Star
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

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

Tricky race. (3) GOLD SPIKE is the narrow top pick having won at this distance in a fast time at class 6 level two starts back before running a good 4th on her first try at this class on October 10th. Her style is to sit back and run on and she has as good a claim as any here. (8) RAON THE TIGER had a poor day at the office at his latest start back on August 21st. He had a couple of months off after that and only came back into full work at the end of last month but going on prior form where he has run and won in fast times at this distance, he has to come into the calculations and is a probable front-runner. (2) MEOTJIN GUY enters with almost identical form to Gold Spike having won two starts back at class 6 level before finishing 4th on his first try at this class, both at today’s distance. He too tends to get back in his races before running on and is a chance here. (7) FLYING FULL MOON comes up in class following an all the way win over this distance four weeks ago and is another who should be on pace. (9) OLD SPECIAL has mixed form at this level but is another who has run a fast time at this distance and could challenge for minor money at least.

Selections(3) Gold Spike (8) Raon The Tiger (2) Meotjin Guy (7) Flying Full Moon
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Competitive race. We’ll take a chance on (5) COOL GUY, a colt who has never finished worse than 3rd in seven outings to date but who steps up in trip to a mile for the first time. Both his wins have come at 1200M, but he has posted decent times at 1400M and has finished off his races well. He comes in here off a nine-week layoff but trialed up last week in good order and can win. (1) MAGIC FLYING is the probable favourite. He may have only won two of his thirty-five starts so far but he has a further ten top three finishes to his name and enters after an excellent 2nd place behind Sky More over 1800M on October 17th. Tactically versatile, he draws well here and has every chance. (10) HAPPY WOMAN was a fast winner over 1400M at class 5 level on October 3rd and then three weeks later, stepped up to this class and distance and ran a super 3rd with a number of today’s rivals behind her. She carries next to no weight at all and despite the wider draw, has a winning chance again. Plenty of others are in at least the placing frame with (3) SEUNGNI TOUT and (6) CRONUS the most prominent.

Selections(5) Cool Guy (1) Magic Flying (10) Happy Woman (3) Seungni Tout
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 13)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations across the country, including the three racecourses, are open at limited capacity. Attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 are required. No walk-up admission is available. Here are the previews:

It’s autumn in Seoul

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

Juvenile maidens get the weekend underway in the capital and five of the eleven are racing for the first time. Much of the experience is promising though, including top pick and probable favourite (3) DUSON FANTASTIC. He finished in the pack on his first start in September, but the performance was good, and he showed solid improvement to then run 2nd on his reappearance on October 16th. He is a front-runner; he draws well here, and he can win. Among those challenging him for the early speed will be (4) RAON THE DASH. After winning a July trial, she has finished 5th in both race starts to date, both in quick times. Look for her to be challenging for better here. (9) COMPLETE LUCKY significantly improved at start number two with an on-pace 3rd a month ago. Expect her to be in this a long way. (1) CHAMP STYLE has run on well in both starts to date and while she may want a little further, she can’t be ruled out from the inside gate. As for the first-time starters (2) SMART BYEOL improved across two trials and perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(3) Duson Fantastic (4) Raon The Dash (9) Complete Lucky (1) Champ Style
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens with five of the ten racing for the very first time. It’s very hard to go past (6) ICHEON ARCH. Having only just scraped through her trial, she was totally unfancied on debut on October 2nd but ran around in 2nd place the entire way behind a good winner in a fast time. If she runs to anything near that today, then she should win. Frankly it’s also hard to look past (7) MAGIC JUDE for 2nd. She’s raced twice and finishes 6th twice in fair times for the respective conditions. She draws better today and won’t need to improve much to get on the board. Of the first timers, (3) NAOL CHAMP beat a couple of these in an October trial when handy to the lead early and just getting a little tired towards the end. If she’s trained on since, then she should have a placing chance first up. (1) WONDERFUL KITTY and (2) GEUMA WITTY others who may have a say.

Selections(6) Icheon Arch (7) Magic Jude (3) Naol Champ (1) Wonderful Kitty
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

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

Fillies only here. The logical pick is (8) GEUMGUKHWA, who seems to be working towards a win especially going on her latest two outings, especially her last start 2nd at this distance when she ran on strong from midfield to be beaten only by a good winner in a decent time. In this company she may well be ridden further forward earlier, and she has solid claims. (9) EAST MAGIC returned from almost eight months off to run an improved 4th over 1200M on October 9th. She should have come on for that run and the additional half-furlong today may well suit. (2) LUCKY CROWN has made all three starts so far at 1000M and at the latest of those was an improved 3rd in a fast time. She draws well to get on the pace here and is firmly in the hunt. (7) ELITE RULES came home 5th behind East Magic at her latest start and should be competitive again here while (5) LAGERTHA is the sole runner to have winning experience. It came at this distance four starts back and while she hasn’t done much in her other outings, that alone is another to bring her into the calculations in this kind of race.

Selections(8) Geumgukhwa (9) East Magic (2) Lucky Crown (7) Elite Rules
Next Best5, 12
Fast Start2, 8, 12, 13

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

Not the greatest of maidens here with none of the fourteen coming in having finished any better than 6th at their respective latest starts. (7) DESK TAP is the one to beat. He enters with the greatest consistency having finished in the top five on five of eight outings so far and can step up to 1300M for the first time with confidence. He has the fastest star in this field and from a decent enough draw and with David Breux taking over in the saddle, he can win. Draw a line through the latest offering from (12) REAL CONCORD when she was hampered early and in general got a bad trip. Instead go on her 2nd place two starts back at this distance as well as her 5th place the time before when she beat a couple of these, and she figures to be the main danger. Get the ruler out again and draw another line through the last showing of (3) MAIN OF KING. He comes back in trip today, draws well and comes down 4kg in the weights with an apprentice up and can go much better. (13) WONDERFUL CAT has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and while it was some time ago, that alone means she shouldn’t be completely ruled out in this company. (11) BARAMGWA HAMKKE another with placing chances.

Selections(7) Desk Tap (12) Real Concord (3) Main Of King (13) Wonderful Cat
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another maiden where the form going in is distinctly average. That makes (10) SUPER BIRD a standout on the basis of her runner-up finish at her latest start on October 9th when she came from well off the pace to run on strong over 1200. She ran 3rd on her only previous try at this distance and looks to be the one to beat here. (14) K N PARK has only raced the once and should have come on for that 6th place finish over 1200M back in August He draws badly here but looks worthy of consideration in a weak race. (3) GREAT EYE has mixed his form across five starts so far but draws nicely here and should be in the mix. He got way too far back last time but should have an easier run of it here. (12) GABO SARANGHAE has mixed her form but is capable of running good times and along with (1) VIENTO, is another in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Super Bird (14) K N Park (3) Great Eye (12) Gabo Saranghae
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 12, 14

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

(2) RAON CHAMPSELY returned from five months off on October 3rd and looked very much as tough she needed the race, knocking up very quickly and finishing last in a fast race at 1300M. She is way better than that though and should come in today race fit and ready to win from a nice draw. (6) JISANGUN comes up in class after an all the way win over 1200M on October 16th. He had been working up to that win for a while and it was a dominant one in a time faster than any of today’s rivals have achieved at the distance so he certainly should measure up class wise. (7) GEUMA FLAWLESS is yet to win in eleven attempts but has been consistently close with six top-three finishes. He generally settles back and runs on and will coming on strong late once more. (3) DREAM PELLA races for the first time since winning over this distance at class 6 level in May. He looked well in a trial three weeks ago and has every chance of going well first-up. (8) WOL YEONG I another in the placing hunt.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 12)

It’s Korean Oaks weekend with the Filly Classic taking place at Busan on Sunday. The weekend’s racing gets underway on the south coast on Friday with seven races from 12:40 to 18:00. All betting locations throughout the country are open to punters, however there is a capacity cap and attendance must be pre-booked through the My Card app – no walk-up admission is available. Those booking through the My Card app must also be able to provide evidence of full vaccination against Covid-19. Here are Friday’s previews:

It’s Friday. It’s…Busan before they built all those factories around the track

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

Juvenile maidens and a likely hot favourite in the shape of (4) MAN OF THE STAR. After winning an early September trial, the Menifee colt ran 2nd on debut on debut on October 1st in a fat race on a very wet track over 1000M when he led for much of the way around before going down narrowly to a good winner with the pair of them well clear of 3rd. He should have come on for that run, the additional distance shouldn’t be a problem and from a good draw he can lead all the way. (9) STELL LUNA has raced twice already, finishing 4th and 3rd over 1000M. Both times B. K. Marshall was not far ahead of her and that filly went on to win at class 5 last week. Stepping up to six furlongs, she should go close. There are just two debut-makers and of the pair, (7) CAPTAIN YANKEE looks best placed to make an immediate impact. He made all to win a trial in fine order in October and with a good start should be in the frame first-up. (2) HWARANG ACE and (3) GOLDEN BROOM are others in the frame.

Selections(4) Man Of The Star (9) Stell Luna (7) Captain Yankee (2) Hwarang Ace
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 9

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

Filly maidens here. (5) UNBRIDLED QUEEN debuted inauspiciously last December but has been a much different prospect since returning from nine months off in September, running 2nd and 4th, both at this distance and both in fair times, sitting midfield and running on. She draws nicely here and with a bit of improvement can win this. The favourite will be (2) SONHADOR. While she has mixed his form across four outings so far, she comes in having run 3rd in a good time over 1200M on October 22nd. She too steps up to 1300M for the first time and it may well suit. (7) SAEMANGEUMUIVISION has raced over this distance already and possesses the fastest time among those in the field who have. That was recorded two starts back when 5th and she enters with form consistent enough to suggest she can compete for at least a place here. (4) RUN AND GUN was 7th behind Unbridled Queen but she too has hinted at ability back up in trip today can go close. (1) HAVANA JANE another in the hunt.

Selections(5) Unbridled Queen (2) Sonhador (7) Saemanguivision (4) Run And Gun
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 11

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

Not much to choose between the top two here to the extent that (3) SEONGSIL SONYEO and (9) WONDERFUL WORLD dead-heated with one another for 4th place at their respective latest starts at class and distance on October 24th. From the widest gate Seongsil Sonyeo found the rail and then ran on the best of the pair, so with a much better draw today we’ll just about side with her to get the better of things here. (6) CARIBBEAN DAY has tended to get a bit far back in his races so far before running on. He steps up to a mile for the first time and it is possible that it may suit. (1) GRAND CHUKJE offered very little across eight starts up ti mid-August. After a couple of months off though, he did hint at potentially being a bit better when 2nd in a trial at the end of October in a fair time. From a nice inside draw and a very soft race to return in, he has a chance to improve. (2) HOLLYWOOD QUEEN perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(3) Seongsil Sonyeo (9) Wonderful World (6) Caribbean Day (1) Grand Chukje
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

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

(3) INDIAN PARTY and (2) CHOEGANG LIGER came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other at class and distance on October 15th on what was for both of them their latest outing. Both are still maidens after thirty-five starts between them but both are regular place-getters. Today looks like the best chance for one of them to finally get that maiden victory and we will go for them to fill the quinella, and tentatively for Indian Party and Perovic to be the one to make the breakthrough. (6) TWO TWO LIME comes up in class having got her maiden win at start number five on October 8th when she made all over 1200M. She steps up in class distance too but can be on pace again and should be in this a long way. This three look head and shoulders above the rest although (4) ALPHA HEART has run competitive time at the distance and along with (8) CHOEGANG BEONJJEOK looks the most likely to challenge for the minors.

Selections(3) Indian Party (2) Choegang Liger (6) Two Two Lime (4) Alpha Heart
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

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

(6) DOCTOR TAKE stepped up to this distance for the first time on October 29th and ran a very good 2nd place, having gone right back at the start before making up ground in the home straight. He comes up just the one kilo for that run and looks to be the one to beat. (7) QUEEN HARLEY got her maiden win at start number six on October 15th on what was her first try at this class and also her first go at a mile. She broke well that day before settling back in midfield and then proving too strong. Her racing style suggests that two turns may suit and with an apprentice still keeping the edge off the weight, she looks to have solid claims to be competitive here. (4) GOLDEN KAISER was favourite for that mile race on October 15th but didn’t get off to the greatest of starts and found himself a bit far back before running on well for 2nd. He gets another crack at Queen Harley here and it’s possible he could overturn the form. (1) WONDERFUL LADY continues to be solid competitor who while never really looking in danger of winning, rarely runs a bad race and can be in the money hunt again. (11) ACE FOUR TEN another who can go close.

Selections(6) Doctor Take (7) Queen Harley (4) Golden Kaiser (1) Wonderful Lady
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 11

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

(5) ECOPIA was an also-ran in last month’s Luna Stakes Oaks trial and accordingly skips Sunday’s filly Classic to swim in the shallower waters of this class 4 affair. Two starts back she was a super winner over this distance at class 5 level in an excellent time and from a decent draw is likely to be on pace from the start and is the one to beat. (8) GREAT GOOD is a winner of three from nine so far and comes back up in trip following a good score over 1200M in an all-filly race on October 17th, when she settled right at the back and ran on extremely well. She was first-up that day following a seven-month layoff and she looks nicely in to run well again here. (2) BOLAVEN remains a bit of an unknown quantity having raced just the once when 4th back in July. He certainly looked the part when blitzing an October trial and surely has claims first-up here. (6) KINGS LANDING is very consistent and has proven capable of running the kind of times needed to be in the hunt here while (9) QUEEN MARVEL IJI is another who can go close in a competitive race.

Selections(5) Ecopia (8) Great Good (2) Bolaven (6) Kings Landing
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 7: Class 1 (2000M) Allowance / KRW 110 Million

(4) FANTASTIC MAN is an intriguing entry here. He is still at class 2 rating-wise, and has only raced once at that level, but his back-to-back wins in August and September over 1800M at class 3 level were impressive. He doesn’t know his rating though and there isn’t much to fear here so he can settle midfield and run on and win. (10) GREAT KING is the best horse in the race and while he again gives weight away, he ran well for 3rd over 1800M on his latest outing on October 8th. The draw won’t be a problem for him and he will be running on strong at the end as ever. (2) JUMBO BLADE is joint top-weight with Great King and he may benefit from having had three months off. He looked very well in a trial at the end of October and can put in a bold showing first-up. (6) SMART PRINCE will be running on well late on as ever and can aim for the money with Great King’s stablemate (1) ALPHAKING IJI another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Fantastic Man (10) Great King (2) Jumbo Blade (6) Smart Prince
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 10

Winner’s Man Denies Heat Yegam By Nose In See-Saw Korean Derby

In the end it didn’t disappoint as what was billed in advance as potentially the greatest Korean Derby so far, went down to the very last stride at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon when Winner’s Man denied Heat Yegam a shot at completing the Triple Crown, by the narrowest of possible margins.

On a weekend when racing fans were allowed into Seoul Racecourse for the first time in over a year Heat Yegam, the runaway winner of the KRA Cup Mile at Busan a month ago, was sent off as a slightly better than even-money favourite for the second jewel in the Crown, the Korean Derby (KOR G1).

Winner’s Man began as second-favourite but was slowly out of the gate for the 1800M Classic as Heat Yegam bounded into an early lead with a perennially keen – and badly drawn – Heungbaragi bounding across to join him. So began a topsy-turvy race which saw Heat Yegam and jockey You Hyun-myung a constant on the front but there was a constant shifting of fortunes behind.

Winner’s Man was ridden up towards the pace before fading and then finding a second wind, while Heungbaragi similarly fell away on the turn for home only to reappear in contention once more. With a furlong to run there were still six in it with Heat Yegam finally collared by Heungbaragi, with Mr. Indie not far behind on the rail and Winner’s Man, Chief Indy and outsider Choegang Game in the centre.

Just as it looked like Heat Yegam was beaten, he rallied and even retook the lead with just 50M to go as Heungbaragi faltered. But all the time Winner’s Man was closing and in the very final strides, Choi Si Dae got one last burst out of his charge to sweep past. It went to a photo-finish but there was no doubt; Winner’s Man had got it on the line.

Heungbaragi, just as in the KRA Cup Mile, was the big loser from the barrier draw but put in a big run to finish 3rd. Choegang Game was a revelation in 4th while Mr. Indie did nothing wrong in 5th.

For Winner’s Man [Musket Man – Winner’s Marine (Volponi)] it was an eighth win on his twelfth career start. Jockey Choi Si-dae, who picked up a substantial fine for his use of the whip in the closing stages, won his second Derby having partnered Yeongcheon Ace to victory in 2015. Trainer Choi Ki-hong, who has been licensed since 2004, won his first Group race of any description.

The brave Heat Yegam lost little in defeat on a dry and heavy track and will surely be back to fight another day. Whether that is in the final leg of the Triple Crown, the Minister’s Cup over 2000M back at Seoul on December 12th, remains to be seen. One thing is for sure though is that this year’s Classic crop certainly measures up. Winner’s Man won today, but the quest for ultimate supremacy in the three-year-old ranks goes on.

Korean Derby 2021 – Horse-By-Horse Preview

The second leg of the delayed 2021 Korean Triple Crown takes place at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon when eleven runners go to post for the Korean Derby (KOR G1). CLICK HERE FOR THE REGULAR RACE-BY-RACE PREVIEW.

The top five placegetters from the first jewel in the Crown, the KRA Cup Mile at Busan a month ago, all return including Heat Yegam, the all the way winner of what was by some margin, the fastest Cup Mile on record.

Heat Yegam has drawn barrier five and will be hot favourite to score again but Heungbaragi, Chief Indy, Mr. Indie and Winner’s Man all return in a bid to prevent the Take Charge Indy colt from going one step closer to emulating Power Blade and sweeping the Triple Crown. Local racing media in Korea is confident they won’t, with twelve out of fifteen racing publications placing Heat Yegam on top.

Moon Hyung-chul, representing trainer Bang Dong-suk, said after the barrier draw on Thursday that Heat Yegam is ready. “It’s his first time traveling to another track to race but he’s adapted well, he works well, and we don’t need to do very much with him. (The Derby) is an extra furlong but that shouldn’t be a problem for him.”

Heungbaragi put in a huge race in the Cup Mile, overcoming barrier fifteen to run on strongly. Trainer Lee Joon-chel, who actually rode him in his first few races before taking up his trainer’s license this summer, laughed wryly when he drew the widest gate. “My foreman says he is in as good a shape as he has seen him. When he won at 1800M he led all the way and that won’t be easy to do but there are many ways to win a race and we will just have to see what happens on Sunday. I’m looking forward to it.”

Lee certainly knows about winning. In just forty-two starts since getting his license, he has already sent out eight winners.

Winner’s Man was sent off as second-favourite in the Cup Mile and tried matching Heat Yegam for speed early on, only to end up weakening for 5th. The Musket Man colt has though raced and won twice at the Derby distance of 1800M, whereas Heat Yegam goes further for a mile for the first time.

Kim Ji-min, representing trainer Choi Ki-hong, reckoned punters didn’t see the best of Winner’s Man at the KRA Cup Mile. “He has done well at 1800M before and while Heat Yegam was very good in the Cup Mile, I think Winner’s Man is going well now and we are looking forward to it. As for rivals: “Obviously Heat Yegam and Heungbaragi are very strong, but I was very impressed with Chief Indy at the Cup Mile, especially as he was first-up after a layoff; 3rd place was a really strong performance.”

The Korean Derby will be run over 1800M and is race 8 on Seoul’s Sunday card with a post time of 17:05 KST. Here is a full run-down of the field.

1. MR. INDIE [Indie Band – Candace Gold (Seeking The Gold)] – A winner of three from six including over this distance at class 4 level. In the KRA Cup Mile, he was ridden hard early to get a position settling on the fence in midfield. He stayed on the rails saving ground, into the straight and kept fighting in the straight to maintain a clear 4th in a strong run. The Wolsley stable is in fine form, Seo Seung-un stays aboard, and he can go close.

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Korea Derby Day 2021: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (November 7)

It’s Korean Derby day at last! The latest Derby in history goes to post at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon with race fans in attendance (attendance must be pre-booked using the My Card app – there is no walk-up admission). Heat Yegam won the KRA Cup Mile, the first leg of the Triple Crown, at Busan last month, and will be favourite again. A full horse-by-horse preview of the Derby will be up soon but in the meantime, here is the full race by race preview of the 10-race card at Seoul (10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (7 races from 11:10 to 16:40):

Heat Yegam won the KRA Cup Mile last month (Pic: KRA)

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

The juvenile maidens get us underway with five of the eleven racing for the first time. And it’s one of those debut-makers who is set to be favourite. (1) PINE FARM first trialed up in May in good style but didn’t make it to the track that time around. He requalified in mid-October, running fast time behind Moonhak Chief and from a good gate should be on pace from the start and can lead all the way. The big danger has some experience. That’s (7) RAON THE ARIA, who was anonymous in her trial but debuted well with a strong 4th p lace at this distance on October 2nd when she sat handy all the way. She won’t need to improve much to be right in this. (10) NO SMALL SUN was a decent 4th on what was her second start on October 10th and if she can continue to make progress here can go close. Returning to the debut-makers, (4) NAMSAN HORANGI impressed when winning an October trial in a fair time and has every chance of going well first-up. (2) P N S LIN didn’t do much wrong in his heat and has an outside chance of sneaking into the money.

Selections(1) Pine Farm (7) Raon The Aria (10) No Small Sun (4) Namsan Horangi
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 10

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

Maiden juveniles start the card at Busan with seven of the twelve racing for the very first time. There is some ability among the experienced ones though, so we will side with (5) MAHAMERU, who after an encouraging trial, ran 6th on debut in September in a fast time on an admittedly wet track. He should have come on for that run and Perovic climbing aboard is a plus. (6) GREAT CHEONGHO was a good 4th on debut just two weeks ago when prominent throughout. It was a fair time on a dry track, and he can go closer today. (7) KING SATURDAY is perhaps the standout of the first timers. While indifferent in his mandatory trial in September, he was sent through a voluntary one just last week and significantly improved, posting a fast time and leading for much of the way. So long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can go well. (3) PLAY THE INDY didn’t do much wrong in what was a slow trial and could also play a part. The wildcard is (12) ANASTASIA, who raced twice uncompetitively in summer but recently went through two trials, winning the latter.

Selections(5) Mahameru (6) Great Cheongho (7) King Saturday (3) Play The Indy
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

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

A big field of maiden fillies and plenty look to have the potential to make the breakthrough. (14) GOLD KAISER is going to need to navigate her way from the widest gate, but if she can do that then she looks to have solid claims. Having won a September trial, she ran 3rd on debut over this distance in a fair time, having been handy early. If the draw is a concern, then (5) RUBY CAT is the one to be on. She has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 4th place last time out over 1300M. She can sit just off the pace here and it could be her day. (12) V QUEEN came home 5th in the same race in what was an uptick in form. She has a good finish on her so the draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can get even closer today. (3) SMART HIGH and (1) FLYING BARBIE are among others with placing potential.

Selections(14) Gold Kaiser (5) Ruby Cat (12) V Queen (3) Smart High
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 14

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (7) ANNIKA GIRL stepped up to this distance at her latest start and ran a fair 5th place in a reasonable time in what was a tougher race than this. She sat handy that day and ran on and in this company, has every chance of breaking through. (1) DARI TTEUNI is the only one to have won a race and then alone brings her into contention. The victory was in May, and she hasn’t looked like repeating, however, she did beat a couple of these on her way to 6th place over 1300M two starts back. (12) WORLD FLOWER stepped up to this distance on October 8th and came from off the pace to run a useful 6th place in a fair time and a repeat of that run would be competitive here. (14) BAEK SEOL QUEEN was disappointing at her latest start in August but had previously registered some decent efforts. She trialed up a couple of weeks ago looking well and may have benefitted from the twelve weeks off. (8) USEUNG GANGJA is another in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Annika Girl (1) Dari Tteuni (12) World Flower (14) Baek Seol Queen
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

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

Another big field and a competitive race. (9) ROAD ACE has been working towards a win with steady improvement over his three starts so far, all of them at 1000M and culminating in a 2nd place last time out in a good time. He steps up in trip for the first time but should be on pace and can win. The presence of Moon Se Young aboard (5) KOREA GIJEOK may make the Hansen gelding favourite. He’s scoreless following fifteen attempts but enters in good form with a 2nd and a 4th from his latest two appearances, both at today’s distance and coming from off the pace. He can go close again. (6) DOUBLE TAKE too comes in with recent form reading positively. She comes in off a last start 4th when settling midfield at this trip and Munro stays aboard today. (3) GEOSEN DOLPUNG steps up to this trip for the first time. He was an on-pace 3rd in a fair time over 1200M on his last outing in September and will be expected to show the way again here. (11) POSA POSA perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(9) Road Ace (5) Korea Gijeok (6) Double Take (3) Geosen Dolpung
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 13

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

(7) VICTOR BASIUM is an intriguing entry here. He has only raced once, back in May, but he raced well, finishing in 4th place in a respectable time over the five furlongs. He trialed up smartly two weeks ago and in shallow waters here, has good claims first-up. (9) WONDERFUL REALTY comes out on top in plenty of indicators in this race. He the fastest finish on him as well as the fastest time at this distance. He comes in off a good class and distance 3rd place on October 1st and while the draw isn’t the best, he should be going close. (6) RAPIDO QUEEN has led both her latest starts at 1300M and 1400M before finishing back in the pack. The slight drop back in trip may be in her favour here and she should enter the calculations. (5) HAEUNDAE BLUE and (12) MYEONGSEONG CHARGE among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(7) Victor Basium (9) Wonderful Realty (6) Rapido Queen (5) Haeundae Blue
Next Best12, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

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

(2) JANGSAN LASER returned to make his second start a full nine months after his first and it proved successful as he came from midfield to score over 1200M on October 3rd. As a result, he comes up in class but neither that, nor the step up in trip should be a problem and he can make it two in a row here. The main danger is (5) BEOLMAL DAEJANG. He comes in having posted two excellent times at this distance in his latest two outings, which ended in 4th and a very close 2nd. He comes up slightly in the weights today but has very solid claims. (3) COOL PRINCESS comes up in class following a win at this distance on October 2nd. She will need to improve on that performance but has drawn very nicely to lead and can measure up. (4) FIGHTING NOW has plenty of class and distance experience and along with (11) GRAY CAT is another with at least placing chances.

Selections(2) Jangsan Laser (5) Beolmal Daejang (3) Cool Princess (4) Fighting Now
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Small field of fillies here and after a string of near-misses, (7) NEW LUX should be winning. Two starts back she ran 3rd at class and distance in a super time on an admittedly wet track, continuing her consistent run of form. At her latest she was 5th over 1800M. She likes to sit handy or midfield and should have too much for these at the business end of the race. (1) GOLD LUCK comes up to the mile for the first time. She has got caught a bit far back in a couple of her latest starts but from a good draw on the inside this time, coupled with the additional distance to play with, she may push the favourite close. (8) TAMNA HWANGHU came from well off the place for a slashing 4th at class and distance on October 15th. She mixes her form but if she gets up a head of steam in the straight, she can run a few of these down. (4) QUEEN OF HEARTS and (6) GREAT GO are others with money chances.

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