Juvenile honours were handed out at both Busan and Seoul on Sunday afternoon before one of the grand old gallopers of the track took to Seoul Racecourse to produce a timely reminder that he may not be done just yet.
Cheongdam Dokki (KRA)
The inaugural Areumdaun Jilju Stakes at Busan resulted in a procession for Yeonggwanguilegend [Concord Point – Perfect Scip (Scipion)], the only runner in the race who had participated in the track’s Rookie Stakes a month earlier. Exciting from the widest gate. Djordje Perovic guided the Concord Point colt to an early lead and from then on it was a one-act affair with much of the field behind him racing greenly and immaturely, including pre-race favourite Clifton King.
On the line the winning margin was five-lengths, jockey Perovic – notching his third winner on the card – able to spend the last 20 metres posing for the still Covid-enforced sparse crowd. Besides Yeonggwanguilegend, the only two to emerge with much credit were Hwarang Best and Daeji Choice, who both closed strongly to finish 2nd and 3rd respectively.
That’s to take nothing away from Yeonggwanguilegend, as he booked his place in the Korea Breeders’ Cup on December 5th with a fine performance in a fast time. Moreover, he ran as thugh he will be able to take on far more lengthier assignments than today’s 1200M and even beyond the 1400M of the Breeders’ Cup.
At Seoul thirty minutes later, Complete Value [Girolamo – Ft. Sduction (Ft. Stockton)] made it a perfect four from four to start his career as added to his success last month in the capital’s division of the Rookie Stakes by taking out the Munhwa Ilbo Cup. While he had begun the Rookie Stakes awkwardly and then almost got caught up in traffic in the Rookie, this time jockey Lim Gi-won made sure luck – or lack of it – would not be an issue as he took Complete Value straight to the shoulder of early leader Wonpyeong Gasok.
While Wonpyeong Gasok battled on gamely, Complete Value got his nose in front at the furlong pole and ran away to a three-length win on the line. Bencal Princess, 2nd in the Rookie Stakes, came home in 3rd place. The time for the 1200M was slower than that of Yeonggwanguilegend at Busan, but faster than that of the preceding 1200M race in the capital.
If all goes to plan, they will meet at 1400M in Busan on December 5, a distance that looks like it will suit both and they will be joined most likely by plenty who skipped today’s races. For now, Yeonggwanguilegend and Complete Value lead the race to become Korea’s overall Champion Juvenile.
It wasn’t just horses at the beginning of their careers who starred on Sunday. Now seven-years-old, Cheongdam Dokki began the latest chapter of his storied career as he made his first start for his new trainer, Tony Castenheira, in Seoul’s class 1 finale over 1800M.
Cheongdam Dokki has never been straightforward. A brilliant talent but with an equally brilliant temper, even back in his juvenile days dueling with the likes of Dolkong, he was not the easiest to handle or to ride. Lining up today for the first time since June, when he finished 4th behind Jjang Kong, much of the local racing media didn’t fancy his chances, while local win-pool punters stayed loyal.
The chestnut sweated profusely on his way to the gate but once the race was underway and jockey Antonio Da Silva had taken him straight to the front, Cheongdam Dokki was strictly business as the pair controlled the race down the back and into the home straight. Looming up though was Jjang Kong and while he was only getting 5kg from Cheongdam Dokki this time compared with the 8kg when he beat him four months ago, it was clear he posed a serious threat.
Under Alan Munro, Jjang Kong chipped away at Cheongdam Dokki’s advantage through out the final two furlongs. At one point it looked inevitable that he would go past but Cheongdam Dokki and Da Silva dug deep and found enough to repel him, crossing the line a neck to the good. It was his by no means the finest of his eighteen wins, but the time was good and the manner of it encouraging.
The Grand Prix Stakes still eludes Cheongdam Dokki with him having recorded a 4th, a 2nd and a 3rd in his three attempts so far. It still remains unlikely given the amount of talent he will have to contend with, but for Castenheira and Cheongdam Dokki, a Boxing Day miracle no longer looks completely impossible.
Three months of Stakes action gets underway on Sunday with both Seoul and Busan hosted Listed races for the top juveniles from this year’s crop, the Munhwa Ilbo Cup at Seoul and the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes at Busan. There are 9 Sunday races at Seoul – with the great Cheongdam Dokki also putting in an appearance – from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:10 to 17:30. The Seoul meeting will be run behind-closed-doors but Busan will be open for customers with a reservation made on the MyCard app. Here are the Previews:
It will be behind closed doors but there will finally be some Stakes action on Sunday!
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens go around here with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (4) SARYEONI FIRST who ran 2nd to – and well beaten by – Aspen Taeyang on debut on August 21st. He settled back and then ran on, finishing in a fast time on a wet track and with some natural improvement for that experience, he can be the one to beat today. (3) MENI WONDERFUL is a colt for whom there are high hopes. He’s the first foal to make the track from his dam Meni Money, a winner of eight races and herself out of a one-time track record holder here over the 1800M. He ran pleasingly enough for 4th on debut at this distance on August 15th and it would be no surprise if he improved sufficiently to win this. It would be a surprise if the quinella featured anything other than these two but there are one or two first-timers to keep an eye on. (6) COSMO will be third-favourite in the market having won her trial on a wet track on September 10th. She was always prominent and while her time was no better than fair, she can acquit herself well. (1) RAON THE JET and (10) YONGAM BOSS others who went reasonably well in their heats.
Selections
(4) Saryeoni First (3) Meni Wonderful (6) Cosmo (1) Raon The Jet
Next Best
10, 11
Fast Start
3, 4, 69
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
It’s hard to go far past (5) BYEOLUI SUNGAN here. He’s run 3rd and 2nd in two starts so far, both times only beaten by similarly promising animals and both times running on strong over 1000M. The additional furlong should suit and he’s the one to beat. If anything is to beat them, then the prime candidate is the sole previous winner in the race, (9) GREEN FEELSTAR. Her victory came two starts back over this distance when she settled towards the front of midfield and then ran on well in a fair time. She returned on August 28th to beat a couple of these on her wat to a decent enough 5th place. (11) JANGSAN LASER ran 6th on his only start to date which was all the way back in January. He finally returns here having looked well in a September trial alongside some good horses and has placing claims. So too (12) NEW STAR YEONGCHEON, who improved significantly at his second start on August 29th when he was always prominent before ultimately finishing 3rd. The draw may not be kind here, but he can go close. There are two first time starters and (10) NEW SMART perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact. He showed at the front in his trial, finishing 5th in a decent enough time.
Selections
(5) Byeolui Sungan (9) Green Feelstar (11) Jangsan Laser (12) New Star Yeongcheon
Next Best
10, 6
Fast Start
4, 9, 10, 12
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
A race of many chances. We’ll take a chance on (6) BORI BORI overturning a bit of form from her latest start when she got the worst of a tight three-way finish over this distance. She has run some consistent times and draws nicely here. The one she needs to upend the form on is (9) KOREA GIJEOK. The Hansen gelding ran 2nd in that race to Bori Bori’s 4th, his best finish to date in a fourteen-race career. He can sit handy here and run on with a maiden win not out of the question. (1) SEOUL DAY gets in nicely with an apprentice jockey keeping the weight low. From the same gate last start he led until the closing stages over 1400M, ultimately finishing 2nd and he should be in this one for a long time too. (2) MIGHTY SUNSHINE may be an interesting outsider. He improved at start number two when 3rd over 1000M and his first time up in trip today may suit. (4) K N UNDERKING ran a useful enough 5th on debut on September 9th and can build on that today.
Selections
(6) Bori Bori (9) Korea Gijeok (1) Seoul Day (2) Mighty Sunshine
Next Best
4, 11
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 10
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(12) MAN OF THE YEAR has run 4th on both his starts so far, most recently on September 5th when after jumping well, he went right to the back before running on strong over 1200M. He comes up in distance today, Perovic knows him well having ridden him both times, and the wide draw shouldn’t matter. He has a real chance. (11) CHEONGHO LEADER comes in off a strong 2nd at class and distance when he led into the straight. That was his best performance to date and a similar run today will put him in the finish. In that race, Cheongho Leader overturned the form on (5) CATCH THE SUN, who finished 3rd and had previously beaten him in July when they came home 4th and 6th respectively at today’s distance. Catch The Sun has been consistent across her four outings to date and with the draw in her favour this time, can go close. (2) SAEMANGUIVISION ran 5th, splitting Catch The Sun and Cheongho Leader in that July race and returns for the first time since then today. She too draws nicely and has placing claims. (4) ANNIKA GIRL, an improved 2nd at her latest start is another in the hunt.
Selections
(12) Man Of The Year (11) Cheongho Leader (5) Catch The Sun (2) Saemanguivision
Next Best
4, 6
Fast Start
4, 9, 10, 12
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(2) SEUNGBUSA is a two-year-old colt with a solid class 6 win before a 3rd place in the Rookie Stakes over 1200M on September 5th when he dwelt slightly at the start before racing keenly to be up and on the pace and running on resolutely. He is up in trip slightly today but that shouldn’t be an issue and the fact that he skips today’s Munhwa Ilbo in favour of this, may be telling. (11) RAON CHAMPSELY returns to action for the first time since May. Still a maiden, she has registered three runner-up finishes from five starts and posted some very good times along the way. She prefers to be a front-runner – although one of her 2nd places did come from the back – so the draw may not be ideal and there is the obvious question about race sharpness as well, but she looked well when recording a fast time in a September trial. (4) REMEMBER WHEN is a mare who must be considered on her consistency. At her last start, when advancing to class 5, she was wide and on the pace most of the race and ran on well for 3rd. She is a placing chance here. So too (8) EUNHYE PADO, who is finding her feet in class 5. She ran 2nd on her latest start over 1400M, making up good ground in the straight. She hasn’t got a lot of early speed but will be closing. (3) SOARA BABA similarly settles back and often needs luck in running but can offer some each-way value.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
No fewer than eight of the twelve raced against each other at class and distance on September 10th so there’s the race of reference. None of them won – that was Honey Star by a full three lengths – and there wasn’t much between quite a few of them. (5) SEONGSAN BULKKOT was 4th that day, having reached 2nd in the straight but ultimately being edged out. That came off the back of a career best 2nd over 1400 the time before. He can be close to the pace here and has much chance as any of coming out on top. (12) SINBIHAN GANGA came him in 6th place in that race having been one paced throughout. The time before though he beat several of these when 2nd at this class and distance and with Seo Seung-un climbing aboard today, he is worth another chance. (9) SINJIN GANGHO was the best of these on September 10th. Coming from well off the pace to make up a lot of ground in the straight. That was a significant improvement on anything he had done in his previous twelve starts but he warrants more respect today. If you don’t rate that September 10th race at all then (6) DONGBU STAR or (2) YEONSEUNG BRAVO are probably the one to go for.
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(5) VICEROY was a big winner in class 6 and is now adapting to class 5. He put in a good effort last start when a little awkwardly away before settling on the pace and battling on for a close 3rd in a good time. A repeat of that performance puts him right in it. (2) GEOSEON POWER is up in class on his last start win at this distance. He was wide all the way, so the win was perhaps a bit better than the narrow margin suggested. He draws well for an easy run here and should enter the calculations. (1) CHOIN SPARK remains a maiden but comes up in class based on his 2nd place to Geoseon Power on September 4th. With this race being run under handicap conditions, he meets him at slightly better weights, and he could cause an upset. (6) HWA SSI BYEOK could be an interesting outsider. On the face of it there’s not much to go on but she has been running times that are competitive in a field such as this and she could run into a place. (11) RULES CLASS another in the placing frame.
Saturday’s racing is set for Seoul with 9 races from 11:00 to 18:00. The meeting is behind closed doors but betting locations in Busan, Changwon, Daegu, Cheonan and Gwangju will be open for punters who pre-book using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:
Roller Blade goes at Seoul on Saturday (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Maiden juveniles to kick off proceedings with eight of the twelve racing for the very first time. Two of the four experienced ones raced very well and both have solid claims although (9) DOUBLE EDGE will be sent off favourite. Having won a trial, he debuted on August 28th and ran a strong 2nd at this distance in a fast time. He was well beaten by a good winner but showed enough to suggest he will be winning sooner rather than later. Also well-beaten by a good winner on debut was (2) WOW WOW who ran 3rd the Bencal Princess, a filly who went on to run 3rd herself in a valuable juvenile race in September. Wow Wow came from off the pace that day, running on pleasingly, and can build on that performance here. A third experienced one, (12) MAGIC JUDE trialed up in 2nd place to Double Edge before running a good 6th on a very fast race on a wet track on debut on August 21st. He will once more have to overcome a wide gate but should be in the finish. As for the first-time starters, (4) TRIPLE RUN was the fastest in trials and should be on pace from a nice draw. (3) SAENAE POWERFUL ran 2nd in what wasn’t a very quickly run heat but looked competent enough to suggest he can go well first-up.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile filly maidens here with six of the ten racing for the first time, but it will be (2) PURPLE K, racing for the third time, who will be the red hot favourite. After winning a June trial, she ran 2nd on debut to Seungbusa in one-minute flat over this distance having led for almost the entire way around. She then stepped up to 1200M on her reappearance and ran a creditable enough 4th. Back at 1000M, with a good draw and just her contemporaries for company, she should be winning this. (7) WILD RUNNER went through a couple of trials and showed significant improvement in the second of them when he led for most of the way around, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place in a fair time. He should be able to get on pace here too as should (9) HWASUBOON who was a front-running 3rd on her heat, again in a fair time. Both can go well first-up. Returning to the experience, (8) PUREUN YOJEONG ran 2rd at this distance on debut coming from off the pace. She then ran a touch disappointingly when stepped up to 1200M in the same race as Purple K, going back and failing to quicken. In this company, she is worth another chance. (10) GOLDEN CLASS another who hinted at ability in her trial.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Tricky one this but (1) COOL PRINCESS gets the nod based on her consistency. She is yet to win from nine attempts but has six top-five finishes including at her latest when 2nd at this distance having settled handy from a wide draw and briefly leading close to the line only to get taken down by a fast finisher. She draws nicely here to lead and today could be her day. The main danger is (9) VIKING HEART. He too has shown consistency in his latest outings with a fast 2nd at 1300M followed by a solid 4th at this distance on August 29th. He still has scope for improvement and can settle handy or midfield here and run on strong. (6) THAT’S MY BOY comes into contention on the strength of his significantly improved runner-up finish over 1300M on August 15th. As he had done in all his races so far, he went right to back but for the first time he actually gained excellent ground late on and it is to be hoped the additional half furlong works in his favour today. (7) SMART POWER is the only previous winner in the race and that alone brings him into the calculations here. He tackles the distance for the first time. The wildcard is (12) SOUJU, who mixes his form, but has run by far the quickest time at the distance and could sneak a place.
Selections
(1) Cool Princess (9) Viking Heart (6) That’s My Boy (7) Smart Power
Next Best
12, 5
Fast Start
1, 2, 7, 12
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A very competitive race with almost everything entering in good form. (1) BEST TAP is established at class and distance having run solid times in his latest three which have finished with a 2nd and two 4th places. His style is to go back and run-on but the inside gate gives his jockey options today and he has as good a chance as any. (5) BEOLMAL DAEJANG is another consistent one at this level and actually led for most of the way last time out over this distance before ultimately finishing in 4th. He has never finished worse than 4th and he should be a big player here and the possible betting favourite. (9) ILGYEOK PILSAL comes up in trip after running on well over 1300M six weeks ago on a wet track. He has finished off most of his races well and can be on contention here. (7) NONGBON BADA was a winner at this distance at class 6 three starts back in a time that can win at this class too. Her subsequent efforts have both been at 1300M and she comes into the mix here. (11) MAKALU POWER the best of a very competitive rest.
Selections
(1) Best Tap (5) Beolmal Daejang (9) Ilgyeok Pilsal (7) Nongbon Bada
Next Best
11, 12
Fast Start
2, 3, 7, 9
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(12) ASPEN TAEYANG was a super winner on debut, sitting handy to the lead before leaving everything in the distance in the home straight to record a sub-one-minute time for five-furlongs. He is up in class and distance and has also drawn the car park, but even so the manner of that victory suggests he has to go on top again and should win again. (5) GWANGYANG EUTTEUM was a winner over this distance in a fast time at class 6 level before putting in a shocker on his first try at this class, hanging near the 800M point and then running out and eased down after the bit got pulled through. He was suspended for two months as a result and ordered to complete two trials, which he has done, winning them both in gate to wire fashion. At his best, he is a real danger here. (3) WINNER BLUE comes in off a nice 2nd place at class and distance last time when he led for most of the way and from a nice draw he can be on the speed again with claims to compete for a place. (1) TAP QUALITY has finished no worse than 4th in seven outings so far and should at the very least maintain that run here. (10) MAGIC JUNIOR among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(12) Aspen Taeyang (5) Gwangyang Eutteum (3) Winner Blue (1) Tap Quality
Next Best
10, 11
Fast Start
3, 5, 10, 12
Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
A very competitive race for fillies and mares. We’ll tentatively side with (3) FOREVER ONE, who draws very well to get to the lead, as she did last time when narrowly defeated by Spot Flatter over class and distance on August 14th. She is very nicely weighted here and can return to the winner’s circle. (8) GREEN DARC has consistently run fast times at class and distance, including her latest when 6th in what was a very good race. She can sit handy or settle in midfield and run on and she has claims today. (11) WONDERFUL RUBY was a good class and distance winner on August 14th when she defied being drawn in gate twelve to sit just off the leaders and then score well. She has a wide draw again but also has an additional 5kg on her back to contend with but nevertheless a repeat isn’t impossible. (1) CHALLENGE SOCKS win at this distance at class 5 level in April and has subsequently put in two adequate showings at this level. The draw should make her competitive here. (5) WINNER TEMPLAR drops back in trip and into placing contention.
Selections
(3) Forever One (8) Green Darc (11) Wonderful Ruby (1) Challenge Socks
So we move into the final quarter of 2021 still with those in the Greater Capital area unable to have a legal punt. A late season Stakes race schedule will kick off this weekend though with both Seoul and Busan hosting Listed events for Juveniles on Sunday. While Seoul and Jeju remain closed to customers, the Busan Racecourse will be open for limited in-person attendance, as will the OCB’s in Busan, Daegu, Changwon, Gwangju and Cheonan. Advance booking through the MyCard app is required. Here are the previews for Friday’s short six-race card at Busan:
Dynamic Busan
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
Juvenile maidens to start with and seven of the ten race for the first time. Among them is the favourite (8) MAN OF THE STAR, a Menifee colt from the Peter Wolsley stable who impressed in his trial by making all to cross the line well clear of the rest in a good time. If he brings that form to the races, then he will be very hard to beat. (9) BEOMI NAERYO ONDA was a touch slow away on debut on August 27th but rallied very nicely to come home in 3rd place. Expect him to be a bit further forward earlier this time around and he is the main danger and clear second-favourite. (3) FANTASTIC MAGIC came home in 5th place in the same race on what was her debut too. She settled back in the fields and ran on and improvement could be on the cards here. Returning to the first-timers, (2) CHOEGANG FORCE and (10) QUEEN’S DAERO are others who put in solid trial efforts and can go well first-up.
Selections
(8) Man Of The Star (9) Beomi Naeryo Onda (3) Fantastic Magic (2) Choegang Force
Next Best
10, 6
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(9) UNJU EUTTEUM was a touch disappointing at his latest start when from a promising position, he lost his way and ended up well back over 1300M. However, if we go on his first two starts when 3rd and 2nd over this distance and 1300M then he must come under consideration. He does come up in the weights but the benefit of Perovic being aboard should counter that and he has every chance here. (8) NICE WORLD has been consistent across three outings so far. At her latest start on September 19th at this distance she settled in midfield from a wide gate before running on for a solid 3rd place. Her times haven’t been special but with some natural improvement, she should be in the finish here. Those two are the clear standouts and it would be a surprise if they don’t fill the quinella. As for the rest, (4) WONDERFUL DAYS raced twice without distinction in the early part of the year. He hasn’t been seen since April but reappeared in an early-September trial looking much more assured and has placing claims first-up. (3) WONDERFUL DIGGER and (2) WONDERFUL REALTY are others who can improve.
Selections
(9) Unju Eutteum (8) Nice World (4) Wonderful Days (3) Wonderful Digger
Next Best
2, 5
Fast Start
3, 4, 8, 9
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A really good race with some up and coming juveniles facing some similarly lightly raced but promising older horses with any number looking to have a winning chance. We’ll go with the filly (10) AGAIN TOUCH. After a facile all the way score over 1000M on debut, she ran a solid 3rd place in a valuable juvenile race on September 5th at this distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She draws wide again, which is not ideal, but she can get on the pace and win this. It won’t be easy though. (2) GLORY KING has the fastest time of any of these at this distance, recorded when 2nd to Doctor Texas on August 1st. He reappeared a month ago to record his maiden win, leading every step of the way over this trip and accordingly comes up in class. He draws beautifully and has every chance. (11) DOCTOR CAESAR was an all the way winner on debut on September 3rd, scoring by as many as he pleased over 1000M. He is up in class and distance today but he surely measures up. (1) WONDER BLADE races for the first time since June and looked well in a September trial. HE has won twice at the distance already and from the inside gate will be a danger. (6) FLASHY CHARM ran 5th behind Again Touch in that big juvenile race and is another in the frame here.
Selections
(10) Again Touch (2) Glory King (11) Doctor Caesar (1) Wonder Blade
Next Best
6, 4
Fast Start
2, 4, 10, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
It’s hard to look past (2) WONDERFUL JAZZ for this. He stepped up to a mile at his latest start on September 10th and beat four of these on his way to a good 2nd place. He had previously run consistent times over 1400M. He can settle handy here and could well prove too strong. That race is going to be the race of reference as most of the credible dangers also come out of it. (11) DOCTOR TAKE had a poor day at the office in the same race when he was away slowly and scarcely improved. Two starts back though he managed a 4th place in a good time at class and distance and can be given another chance here. (4) ACE FOUR TEN was a winner at this distance at class 6 level in August before running a decent enough 5th in that same September 10th race and from a good draw can close. (7) WAKANDA has loads of experience at this level and ran 4th in the September 10th race and a repeat can’t be ruled out. Among those who didn’t go in the September 10th race, (1) THE FIRST FACTOR looks the best. She drops back in trip following spin around 1800M at her latest start where she led before weakening. She has run decent times over 1400M.
Selections
(2) Wonderful Jazz (11) Doctor Take (4) Ace Four Ten (7) Wakanda
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 5
Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
(7) MISS INDIE suffered her first defeat when up to this distance for the first time on August 13th when she led almost the entire way around only to get taken down late on by Hill More. She comes up in class again here but gets in under a light weight and has every chance of returning to winning ways. (10) GOLD FOUNTAIN win three races in a row between May and August to rise up rapidly in class. He ran 5th over 1800M at this level at his latest start and can be better for the drop back in trip here. (3) MUJEOK BULPAE tackles the mile for the first time. He has finished in the top two in six of seven starts so far (although five of them have been as runner-up) He has run some consistently fast times over 1400M and from a good draw can sit on pace or handy to the lead and run on strong. He has a big chance. (4) WINNER STAR got his maiden win in a valuable juvenile race on September 5th. He is up in class and distance here but his running style suggests that the distance will suit and he has solid claims again. (6) ALPHA STAR comes in off a good 2nd place at class and distance on September 12th where he overcame a wide draw to lead for much of the way and came home in a time faster than any of these have achieved at a mile so far. He draws much better today and should be in the finish again.
Selections
(7) Miss Indie (10) Gold Fountain (3) Mujeok Bulpae (4) Winner Star
Next Best
6, 2
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 7
Busan Race 6: Class 2 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 90 Million
(5) JANGSAN DOKKI is set to be hot favourite to return to the winner’s circle here having beaten several of today’s rivals when 2nd behind the excellent Winner’s Man ay class and distance on September 12th. Under today’s conditions, he carries just the additional 1kg for that run and is very much the one to beat. (6) RETURN OF SUBSIDY didn’t go in that race but instead comes in for the first time since beating Jangsan Dokki on his way to a strong 3rd at class and distance on August 22nd. He tends to settle back and run on strong and will be doing his best work late on again here. (4) CURLIN TIME is ultra-consistent and while he has a big weight again, he will be in the finish. He was 5th behind Jangsan Dokki last time and two starts back beat the very promising filly Doctor Fappiano when 2nd to Winner’s Man. (7) DAEHO JILJU was 3rd in the September 12th race and can also enter the calculations. The wildcard is (2) SAMSEONG DOKKI. A class and distance winner, he races for the first time since last November and while he offered few clues in a September trial, a good run first-up can’t be ruled out.
Selections
(5) Jangsan Dokki (6) Return Of Subsidy (4) Curlin Time (7) Daeho Jilju
It’s the final race day of September what with the Chuseok holiday upcoming and racing taking one of its two weekends a year off next week. Decent cards at both Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00) to go out with. The Seoul meeting is behind closed doors and all capital area betting facilities remain closed but Busan is open as are OTBs in Changwon, Daegu, Gwangju and Cheonan for punters who pre-book through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens start things off this Sunday with seven of the twelve making their racecourse debut here. There is some useful experience around though as (6) BYEOLBIT MARU has raced twice already and shown ability. She was 4th on debut over 1200M before dropping back to today’s trip and running 3rd on August 15th when she settled back in the field and ran on. She’ll be favourite here and is the one to beat. (2) DREAM SPEED hinted at ability when 5th on debut in a fair time over this distance. That was a reasonably strong looking maiden and she should improve here. Among the first-timers, (4) ALL FOR YOUR DREAM looks the best. He was away relatively slowly in his trial but once he set to work, he finished off well crossing the line in the same time as the heat winner. (5) LUCKY INDY beat a couple of these on her way to 4th in her trial. It wasn’t run at an especially fast pace, but she looked competent enough to suggest she has a chance of going well first-up. Returning to the experienced runners, (10) GEOLJAK DREAM only managed 9th on debut but it was a fair time and a pretty hot race so expect better today.
Selections
(6) Byeolbit Maru (2) Dream Speed (4) All For Your Dream (5) Lucky Indy
Next Best
10, 7
Fast Start
5, 6, 7, 10
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million
(11) LAPIEO BAN is set to be warm favourite here. She ran 4th on debut over this distance before stepping up to 1300M and finishing a good 2nd. She has come from off the pace both times and while she draws wide, she should have too much for these. (10) FLYING KARA has finished 3rd in both her starts so far. She was very slowly away at her latest outing before running on well and went back to trial afterwards. She was similarly slow to begin in the trial, but she does have a nice turn of foot and so long as she doesn’t get too far back, she can go close here. (9) PRINCESS DAY beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place over this distance on August 22nd, and while she is yet to run a time, can be considered for improvement again here. (1) SWEET CAMP didn’t do too much wrong when finishing in midfield on debut last month. She draws much better this time around and can improve. There are four debut-makers here and (7) PURGE DAY looks the most likely to make an impression first-up, having run 3rd in his trial in a decent time and drawing well.
Selections
(11) Lapieo Ban (10) Flying Kara (9) Princess Day (1) Sweet Camp
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
2, 4, 9, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million
(9) SOBERANIA picks herself here following a 4th and a 2nd from two starts so far including her latest at this distance on July 3rd when she led for much of the way only to be passed in the closing stages by a good winner. She has had eleven weeks off since then but will be expected to be on pace again and this time to go all the way. (2) JAY EAGLE ran well for 2nd place over 1300M on August 8th, her best finish in seven starts so far. Two starts back she ran a decent time when 4th at this distance and can be considered here. (11) DESK TAP has been putting in some consistent performances with five top five finishes from six races to date although the maiden win has remained elusive. His times have been fair, and he prefers to sit handy so while the draw is not ideal, it isn’t insurmountable. (7) FINAL ACE and (5) PERFECT LIGHT were beaten by Desk Tap on August 8th, but both have hinted at ability and can be in the minor money mix today.
Selections
(9) Soberania (2) Jay Eagle (11) Desk Tap (7) Final Ace
Next Best
5, 4
Fast Start
4, 8, 9, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million
(6) PURE KING returned from nine months out to run a good 2nd first-up on July 31st at this distance when he settled midfield and ran on. Seven weeks on, he should have come on for that run and shapes as the one to beat here. (3) BEST HAMSEONG is one of three first-time starters in the race and the Peace Rules filly looked very competent leading all the way in her trial, responding very well to one reminder in the home straight. She can be competitive first-up. So too can (10) MILLION BANK who won her trial, leading for most of the way around on a wet but drying track and similarly responded well when asked for some exertion. (9) SONHADOR ran 4th behind Pure King on July 31st, building on what had been a promising debut earlier in the same month. She came from off the pace that day and is likely to do similar here with the trainer/jockey combination ensuring she receives plenty of support. (8) DROMOS won a trial in July before running 3rd on debut on August 20th when she led until the home straight. It was an encouraging performance, and she should be in the hunt here too.
Selections
(6) Pure King (3) Best Hamseong (10) Million Bank (9) Sonhador
Next Best
8, 11
Fast Start
3, 4, 8, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
(9) SPEAR GUN is the one to beat here, dropping back to a distance at which he ran 2nd two starts back in fast time having sat handy before dropping back to midfield and then running on well. Since then, he has run a solid 3rd over 1400M and can be on pace here and win. (8) WONDERFUL ORANGE has the fastest time of any of these at this distance, recorded at her latest start when 4th on a very wet track on August 21st. She is yet to win in seventeen starts and will probably find one or two too quick again but shouldn’t be too far away. (6) ONCHEONHA seems to be working towards a win having significantly improved in his latest two outings with a 3rd and a 2nd both at 1200M. He briefly touched the front in the home straight last time out and while up in trip, should be in the finish here. (1) SMART JEONSA almost managed to make all over 1200M last time out but was passed by a very good winner in the final furlong. He can aim for a place again. (12) FLYING FULL MOON is another in the placing frame.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
Competitive race here. (7) LANE KILLER has raced just the twice so far, registering a 3rd over 1300M and a 4th over today’s distance. While we will need to take him a little on trust here that there is some improvement in the tank, he gets a better draw today and has claims. Probable betting favourite is (1) ECHO LADY. She has the fastest time among these at this distance by a considerable margin, achieved three starts back when 2nd having led through the early stages. She drops back in trip from a last start 4th over a mile and is firmly in the hunt here. (6) HORAENGI was beaten by Echo Lady two starts back but has consistently run competitive times over this trip, generally settling back and finishing strongly. She has three 5th place finishes in a row coming into this and should be aiming for better this time around. (9) NORTHERN LIGHTS beat Lane Killer when 3rd last start and on that alone has to be considered while (2) SPEED MATCH is another with a chance of at least a place.
Selections
(7) Lane Killer (1) Echo Lady (6) Horaengi (9) Northern Lights
Next Best
2, 10
Fast Start
1, 2, 4, 8
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
It’s about time (10) FIGHTING NOW made his breakthrough and got his maiden win. He has finished 2nd on no fewer than five occasions with a further two 3rd place finishes. He steps back in trip following decent efforts at 1400M in his latest appearances and he can overcome the wide draw to sit midfield or better early and then run on. If Fighting Now does find one too quick again – and let’s face it, he might – then (1) FASHIONED PASSION is one of a number who could take advantage. She has mixed her form since a class and distance win back in April but draws very nicely on the inside here and an apprentice jockey takes 4kg off her back compared with her last start. She can go close. (11) TIZ BLACK has won two of his latest three, the most recent at class and distance on June 20th. He overcame gate twelve to get on pace today so the draw shouldn’t be too much of an issue and while he is up in the weights, he can be considered again. (5) FANCY PANTS, up in class, and (12) RUNNING KING are others in the hunt.
Selections
(10) Fighting Now (1) Fashioned Passion (11) Tiz Black (5) Fancy Pants
Next Best
12, 9
Fast Start
7, 9, 11, 12
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
(4) ECOPIA has a win and three 3rd place finishes from four starts to date and comes in off back-to-back 3rd places at this class and distance. From a nice draw she should be on the early speed here and has the potential to go all the way. (1) FIRST STAR was a class and distance winner two starts back before running 4th at her latest appearance on August 22nd. She draws well here, and an apprentice jockey keeps the weight nice and low. She is a big danger. (10) GALLANT WARRIOR is developing a bit of case of “second-it is” being yet to win in seven but having finished runner-up in his latest three, including his last start at class and distance He seems tactically versatile so the draw shouldn’t be an issue and he will be running on strong late here. (6) DOCTOR FAITH is another yet to win but who is ultra-consistent with six top three finishes from seven outings. He steps up to this trip for the first time and has claims. (12) HAMAN BANGEOSAN was a smart winner over 1300M at start number two on August 22nd. She comes up in class and distance here and is the wildcard.
Selections
(4) Ecopia (1) First Star (10) Gallant Warrior (6) Doctor Faith
Next Best
12, 7
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 12
Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
We’ll draw a line through the latest offering from (1) HI HI when slowly away over 1200M before making up ground for an uninspiring 6th place. That was his first time outside the top three and he had previously been running fast times up to 1300M. This is his first try at 1400M, but it should suit, and he gets another chance here. (9) FIGHTING DADDY led for much of the way around 1300M last start on August 29th before getting swept up by a decent set of runners and finishing 5th. Expect him to be on pace again here and to be competitive. (11) ACHIM HAMSEONG didn’t do himself justice on his first try at this class four weeks ago when he got a long way back and didn’t run on. He does possess the fastest time of any of these for the distance though and should be afforded another opportunity here. (4) HARUON is a front0runner who comes into the calculations following a good 2nd in a decent time over 1300M on August 15th when only narrowly beaten She’ll contest the early speed and has run well at this distance in the past. (10) GHOST VILLAGE is another who should have designs on at least a place.
Selections
(1) Hi Hi (9) Fighting Daddy (11) Achim Hamseong (4) Haruon
There are nine races at Seoul on Saturday from 11:00 to 18:00. The meeting takes place behind closed doors although betting outlets in Busan, Changwon, Daegu, Gwangju and Cheonan will be open for pre-booked punters (through the MyCard app). Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
A juvenile maiden to kick things off and unlike many similar races where there are usually only one or two obvious contenders, there are no standouts here which bring plenty into contention. With that in mind, we will give the nod to the only one with prior racecourse experience in the shape of (12) BICHUI DAERYUK. She ran 2nd on debut at this distance on August 7th and while she was a long way behind the winner, she ran on pleasingly enough in a fair time. She doesn’t draw well here but with some improvement, she may prevail. (8) GLOBAL MAGIC won his trial when after leading early, he was overtaken before rallying again and looks to have promise. (4) RAON THE WEEKEND won his trial and while the time wasn’t especially fast, he showed enough to suggest that has ability. (2) REMARKABLE ran 2nd in her trial in a decent time. She gets a nice draw here as well as an apprentice jockey aboard meaning she carries significantly less than any other runner in the race. (9) JAY TROSS is another trial winner who will aim to be on pace and can be in the finish.
Selections
(12) Bichui Daeryuk (8) Global Magic (4) Raon The Weekend (2) Remarkable
Next Best
9, 1
Fast Start
4, 5, 8, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
A weak race even for this level which is how we can put (2) CHAMPION GAMUN as the top pick despite his recent form on paper looking less than impressive. He has, however, put in a couple of decent times at this distance, racing against better opposition and from a good draw, he can be expected to be on pace from the start and difficult to pass. (5) MUJEOK JANGSAN come sin off a significantly improved 3rd place over 1300M on August 7th when she settled handy and then ran on. She steps up to 1400M for the first time and it may suit. (1) LAGERTHA is the only previous winner in the field and on that basis alone must come into the calculations. That win was three starts back at 300M when he settled midfield and finished well. While previous attempts at this distance haven’t gone well, he draws nicely here and should be involved. (4) GREAT EYE has shown improvement across his three starts so far and ran on strong for 4th over 1200M three weeks ago. The step up in trip may suit and an apprentice keeps the carried weight down. (12) SOUTH BAN another in the placing frame.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
Another wide open race. We’ll take a chance on (6) DIECO, who was a winner at this class over 1200M two starts back before running a slightly disappointing 5th at her latest start over today’s trip on August 14th when she was drawn in the widest gate and ran on fairly. She draws better this time meets that day’s winner at significantly better weights and could reverse the form. That day’s winner (4) J.S. POWER is the probable favourite and the one to beat. He led from gate to wire that day wo score a narrow win over the useful Rubicon in a fast time. He draws nicely again with the only concern being that he comes up 3kg in the weights. (2) SECRET BOSSS enters off an excellent 3rd place last time at class and distance in a fast time on a wet track. As is his style he came from well off the pace that day but from an inside draw if he can be a little handier then he has strong claims. (1) MODERN BEST produced a fine performance to score her maiden win over this distance at start number seven on August 8th, coming from well off the pace. She comes up in class accordingly but should measure up. (11) SHADOW QUEEN ran a strong 2nd at class and distance at her latest start and is one of several others with placing claims in what is a strong race.
Selections
(6) Dieco (4) J.S. Power (2) Secret Boss (1) Modern Best
Next Best
11, 12
Fast Start
3, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(3) ULTRA KING gets the nod here based on his solid class and distance win on August 15th when he sat behind the leader throughout before pouncing in the final furlong and running on to score comfortably. He comes up 2.5kg in the weights as a result but draws well and can repeat. (2) MAD BLADE comes up in class having registered his maiden win a month ago over 1300M when on pace throughout and running on for an easy win. She should be able to measure up at this class and while it won’t be quite as easy to get on pace here, he can go close. (6) COMPLETE STAR comes in off a solid class and distance 3rd place finish on August 15th, an all-filly race in which she led for part of the way around. She is nicely in here under just 52kg and should go close again. (1) AROMA remains a maiden after nine attempts but has proven competitive at this level with a 3rd and 4th in his latest two outings, both at class and distance. The wildcard is (11) ROAD RAN, who is probably the best horse in the race. She is a class and distance winner in a time faster than any of these have achieved, however, she races for the first time since November last year and while she trialed up adequately, didn’t quite show enough to suggest a bet first-up. Watch with interest.
Selections
(3) Ultra King (2) Mad Blade (6) Complete Star (1) Aroma
Next Best
11, 5
Fast Start
3, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Good race here with two clear standouts. (1) MONSTER K comes in seeking his third straight victory having prevailed twice in a row at class and distance. Both times he has led all the way and both times has run out a good winner. He draws beautifully to get on pace again and while he is up in weight, the Astrology gelding can be equal to the task. The danger is (8) BYEOLNARA JILJU. He got his maiden win at start number three at class and distance on July 24th when he sat behind the early leader before taking things up in the straight and running on for a very easy win. He does come up a full 5kg in the weights which should be a steadier, but he also looks to have scope for improvement whereas Monster K may have peaked. He has a big chance. (7) CHOEGO RACE won at class and distance two starts back before coming home in 4th place on his reappearance on August 22nd. He stays at the same weight and draws well enough to be in at least the placing frame again. (4) QUICKSILVER KITTEN was 5th behind Choego Race last time out and has cope for improvement while (2) CHUNJI GWANGPUNG weakened on debut in June but should have come on for the experience and can improve today.
Racing will take a break for the Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) holidays next weekend so it’s full fields all round this week. The action kicks off at Busan on Friday with a seven-race card from 12:35 to 18:00. While betting outlets in the Capital region and Jeju Island remain closed, those in Busan, Daegu, Changwon, Gwangju and Cheonan are open for pre-booked punters (through the MyCard app). Here are the previews:
Hopefully this will soon be just a bad memory
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens go around here with five of the ten racing for the very first time. There are two standouts among the ones with experience. (1) GREAT BLUE is set to be favourite having raced twice already, the latter time running a good 2nd to the promising newcomer Adele Touch in a fast time, running through the line strongly. He draws nicely on the inside and has winning claims here. (7) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT has raced just the once on August 14th when he was smartly away and leading before dawdling a little in the home straight and ultimately finishing 2nd. Hopefully he has learned from that and with some improvement in terms of finishing the race off, he can win. Among the first-timers, there is plenty of promise. It took (4) H. DAY a couple of trials to figure things out but once he did, he qualified smartly in a fast time and should be on pace here. Bart Rice and Seo Seung-un is a formidable combination at the moment and the pair here send out (8) JEONGMUN DRAGON, who qualified in a reasonable time on a wet track running on strong and should come into the calculations. (3) MAHAMERU similarly trialed up very nicely in the wet and gets in well drawn under an apprentice claim.
Selections
(1) Great Blue (7) Goldenthunderbolt (4) H. Day (8) Jeongmun Dragon
Next Best
3, 10
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 7
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
More juvenile maidens, this time with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll stick with experience again. (9) MISS GO picks herself here based on how she ran on debut on July 16th when she settled midfield and ran on well for 4th in a fast time on a dry track. She’s had nine weeks off since then but won’t need to improve too much on that showing to win here. (7) FANTASTIC LOVE ran a good 2nd to Doctor Pharaoh on debut on August 27th when handy and running on. It was a run full of promise and under a light weight again, she should be a big danger. (1) ADELE BOSS may have finished well back on debut but the run itself wasn’t bad and he should have come on for the experience. Expect improvement today. As for the first-time starters, (3) SHAKA is sure to have plenty of support, given the stable. He didn’t offer too many clues in his trial but posted an adequate time and will have plenty of backers. (12) CHOEGANG MARINE was slightly slowly into stride in his trial but ran on strong to finish 3rd in a reasonable time, suggesting he can overcome the wide draw here.
Selections
(9) Miss Go (7) Fantastic Love (1) Adele Boss (3) Shaka
Next Best
12, 2
Fast Start
2, 3, 7, 11
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
(8) GWANGDAESEUNGCHEON has shown significant improvement in his latest two appearances running 3rd in both of them, both at 1300M. He likes to settle midfield and run on and it could be third time lucky here. Trainer Peter Wolsley has been on 599 Korean winners for a few weeks now but the breakthrough 600 may come here with (1) LE CONCORD. The three-year-old has only raced twice, once last October and then this May, finishing a good 3rd in the latter over 1200M. He ran on well that day and the step up in trip may suit. He will probably need this run but in a race of few chances, he has as good as any. (4) ANY LINE has mixed his form but ran well enough for 4th over 1200M last start. His best result so far came at a mile and he looks a place chance here. (3) UNJU BULPAE ran a fair race on debut over 1000M and the step up in trip may suit. (10) CROWN KING STAR another in the placing frame.
Selections
(8) Gwangdaeseungcheon (1) Le Concord (4) Any Line (3) Unju Bulpae
Next Best
10, 2
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 10
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
Tricky race with most of the main chances having drawn wide. (12) MARK ACE doesn’t exactly win out of turn, but she has finished in the top five on nine of eleven starts so far and comes in with very consistent recent form. She has the fastest time among those who have tackled a mile before and while she does draw the car park, she overcame gate eleven to run 3rd over 1400M last start. She comes down slightly in the weights for that and Perovic climbs aboard meaning there is plenty to like. (9) KING GOLIATH ran on strong from off the pace to score his maiden win at start number four just two weeks ago. That victory had been coming and while up in class, if anything the additional trip should suit even better and he has claims again. (11) WORLD CHANGE has only raced three times and comes up in class following a solid front-running victory over 1400M on August 27th. This is his first try at a mile but there is no reason why he can’t measure up and he should be in the finish. (8) UNJU SESANG is another up in class following a good win over 1400M. Her times have been consistent and while she may need to step up a little here, she looks to have each-way claims. (5) NEW LUX has loads of experience at the level and is more than capable of sneaking a place.
Selections
(12) Mark Ace (9) King Goliath (11) World Change (8) Unju Sesang
Next Best
5, 10
Fast Start
7, 8, 10, 12
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Expect (1) ENDLESS RUNNING to jump as the shortest priced favourite of the day and for good reason. He is up in class here and he does carry 57kg but the manner in which he has won his latest two, especially last start on July 23rd over this distance when he led from gate to wire for a seven-length win under 56kg, suggests he can cope. He draws perfectly and should win. Beyond the favourite this is a pretty average line-up for the level. (7) HANSEN MULGYEOL parted company with his jockey coming out of the gate at his latest appearance but he does have some decent form in his record. He has a fast start so if he gets on pace he can beat a few. (3) SEOBU QUEEN is not a fast starter but beat a couple of these on her way to 5th over 1300M last start and should beat plenty again. (11) B.K. POWER and (4) FANTASTIC LEADER are others with placing claims.
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
Fascinating match-up here as two horses both very much on the improve meet. (6) GOOD TANK won her first two at class 6 before recording a pair of runner-up finishes over 1400M at class 5 level, leading on both occasions before ultimately ending up in 2nd place. She comes up in class here but down in the weights and draws well and it’s for those later two reasons that we marginally prefer her to (12) DAEAM JANGGUN, who draws the car park and carries a full 6kg more than he did when winning at class and distance on August 27th. His time that day was sensational having sat handy and struck the front just over a furlong out. Another win isn’t impossible. (4) DOCTOR GIANTS actually beat Daeam Janggun when they met two starts back and comes down in trip following a decent effort around 1800M at his latest start. (1) BUCATINI and (7) QUATTRO MAX are others with at least placing chances.
Selections
(6) Good Tank (12) Daeam Janggun (4) Doctor Giants (1) Bucatini
Next Best
7, 5
Fast Start
4, 6, 8, 11
Busan Race 7: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
Really good race to finish with. (10) GEUMA MYSTIC has a great record at this distance and was a super winner at it two starts back at class 3 level. He ran 2nd to the class 1 bound Barbarian over 1800M on his first try at this level on August 22nd and comes in here nicely weighted, if drawn a little wide. He has excellent claims. (1) WORLD TOP is already a class 2 winner, prevailing two starts back in an excellent performance over a mile. This is his first start at this distance since last December and he does give weight away but he draws well and will be in the finish. (9) MIRACLE DREAMING hasn’t won for more than a year but comes up in class off the back of a consistent run of form including a runner-up finish at his latest start at this distance in a fast time. He carries a light weight and while he would need significant improvement to win, can measure up for a place. (3) SONIC KING IJI has run some very good times at this distance and enters the calculations while (11) I’M YOUR FASHION races for the first time since May but looked good when trialing only last Saturday and is another in the placing frame.
Selections
(10) Geuma Mystic (1) World Top (9) Miracle Dreaming (3) Sonic King Iji
Sunday’s meetings are at Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00). Seoul will take place behind closed doors although Busan Racecourse will be open for pre-booked seats up to 20% of indoor capacity. Tickets must be bought in advance through the My Card app. Here are the previews:
At least they’re racing
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens to kick us off and it features one of the banker favourites of the day. Seven of the eleven race for the very first time but (1) YUKWAEHAN SEONTAEK has appeared twice already, running 3rd and 2nd, both at this distance, both in good times and both behind promising horses. Drawing well here, it really should be 3rd time lucky. (6) POWER BOX is set to be second-favourite. After a front-running, if slightly slow, trial, he ran a solid 4th on debut at this distance on August 7th in a decent time. Expect improvement here. Among the debut-makers (4) TOUGH GUY trialed up well, leading for much of the way around from gate ten before ending in 3rd in a good time. He draws better first-up and should be a danger. So too (9) DAEBAK STAR, who went through two trials, winning the second of them in a good time. (7) SILVER STAR another in the hunt.
Selections
(1) Yukwaehan Seontaek (6) Power Box (4) Tough Guy (9) Daebak Star
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million
Three-year-olds only here. The logical pick is (9) SISEON JUMA, who ran 5th on debut before improving to 2nd on her second start on August 15th, beating three of these on her way to recording the fastest time of any of this field at today’s distance. She was on pace that day so the draw is not ideal but with some natural improvement, she can win. The big danger is (4) JEONGMUN JIJON. He took a couple of goes to figure things out but has impressed in his latest couple, especially last time when 3rd over this distance when coming from off the pace. He draws well and is sure to be in the finish. Solitary first-time starter (11) B J FLASH did nothing wrong in his trial and this is quite a soft race to debut in. He led his trial so the draw may not be ideal but don’t rule him out. (6) GEOSEON DOLPUNG has led most of his races to date and while he has been passed in all of them, has registered a couple of decent times and should be in the hunt today. (10) JISANGUN another in the placing frame.
Selections
(9) Siseon Juma (4) Jeongmun Jijon (11) B J Flash (6) Geosen Dolpung
Next Best
10, 7
Fast Start
4, 6, 9, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
(4) JEONGSEONG DAERO has finished no worse than 4th in three starts so far and seems to be working towards a win. She came from off the pace at her latest start to finish 2nd in what was admittedly a slow time, but she looks to have scope for improvement and has solid claims here. (5) BOOSTER ROCKET ran a decent time when stepped up to this distance for the first time at start number three on August 21st. She settled handy that day but from a good draw should be on the speed this time around and surely goes close. (1) LUXURY KING enters in his best form so far with back-to-back 3rd place finishes from his latest two. The latter was at this distance in a fair time, and he can sit handy from the inside gate and run on. In what is a relatively weak race, (11) SONGAM PLAYER can return to some kind of form. His recent results aren’t indicative of his ability, and he can run into a place. (3) CHANGI CHARM another with claims.
Selections
(4) Jeongseong Daero (5) Booster Rocket (1) Luxury King (11) Songam Player
Next Best
3, 10
Fast Start
5, 6, 7, 9
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens kick things off here with only two of the twelve having raced before. That leads us to the trial videos and (1) CLIFTON KING missed the jump in his trial but worked forward quietly and ran on strong to cross the line 2nd without being hurried along. If he brings that form to the races, then he should win and given the stable, he is bound to be hot favourite. (2) SHY DRAGON won her heat in a decent time on a wet track. She was slowest away and was well back before running on strong. Just like Clifton King, no whip was required, and she looks to have potential. (11) YEONGCHEON SOLEMIO was 3rd in the same trial as Shy Dragon. He was up with the pace throughout and while he draws wide, has every chance of going well first up. Of the pair with experience, (4) HANEUL GANGJA ran well enough in 6th place on debut to suggest that there is improvement to come while returning to the first timers, Seo Seung-un and Bart Rice team up with (3) GREEN SPEED who looked competent enough in the trial and has a nice draw.
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
A few standouts here. (7) POLKA remains a maiden after twelve attempts but comes in with consistent form – she has finished in the top-five on seven occasions. At her latest start on August 14th, she beat a couple of these on her way to 4th place and has as good a chance as any of gaining what has so far been an elusive first victory. Big danger and probable betting favourite is (4) HIT ACE, based on her latest effort when 2nd in a fast time at this distance and only narrowly beaten. She was close to the speed that day and from a good draw has every chance of being so again today. She may be the one to beat. (2) TEUKGEUP YEOWANG is another who enters with her form heading in the proper trajectory and she can aim to at least match the 3rd place finish she secured on her latest appearance on August 8th when she settled in midfield and ran on. (8) SANGSEUNG HAENGJIN led in her latest appearance at this distance on August 15th and while she eventually weakened, the time was fair and could mark an overdue uptick in form. Disregard the latest effort from (6) LUCKY SEOKPO. It was his first start in four months, and he should be fitter today.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
Fillies (and one mare) only here and it’s about time (1) CHEONGMA HWANGHU broke through. She has, by some margin, the fastest time among these at the distance to her name and six top-five finishes from eight starts to date. Her 4th place last start was a touch disappointing, but she comes in here at the same weight and with the inside gate and every chance of leading all the way. (2) QUEEN HARLEY drops back in trip following good 2nd place over 1400M on August 13th when she sat handy and ran on. She too draws nicely and is set to be in the finish again. (5) BARAM GONGJU somewhat unexpectedly beat Cheongma Hwangu when the pair ran 3rd and 4th at the distance on August 22nd. She comes up 3kg in the weights as a result but warrants some respect here. (10) WONDERFUL LADY is no superstar but actually has the best “in the money” rate of any of these. She ran solid 2nd over 1300M on August 13th and can give an honest account of herself once more. (8) SMARTY DOLPUNG is among other placing hopes.
Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
There’s not a lot of great form on show coming into this. That leaves (12) OKCHUMA, despite never having finished better than 4th, as the pick. That 4th did come at his latest start though, on August 15th at 1300M when he ran on from the middle of the pack. He also has a 5th place in a decent time at today’s distance. His racing pattern suggests that the wide draw won’t be a factor and Munro in the saddle can only help. (7) HELLO GEUMSEONG made up ground late on last start to run 6th at this distance in a semi-acceptable time. She won’t need to improve much to go closer here. (4) SAENAE CHOICE hasn’t caught the eye in recent runs but has registered a couple of competitive times at this distance and should measure up in this company. She should be on the early speed. (9) PEPE RUN and (3) GUREUMTAGO are among others who could place on a good day.
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
A really good race here. (2) YEONGDO GALMAEGI drops back in trip after two solid efforts over a mile which saw him leading or on pace before finished in 4th and 3rd. His solitary win to date came at this distance at class 6 level in a fast time and from a good draw he should be on pace again and has fair claims to win. First among many dangers is (7) ACE GUY. He too got his victory over this distance at class 6 level when leading all the way two starts back before being slowly away on his first try at this class on August 1st and only making it up to 5th. He is better than that run suggests and while he comes up 3kg in the weights, he is firmly in this. (6) BEAUTY HILL comes up in class today following a gate to wire win over this distance on August 14th. She will need to improve in this company, but she has only raced three times so there can be some natural progression and she should measure up from a nice draw. (3) APRIL QUEEN stretches out to this distance for the first time after a good 2nd place over 1300M a month ago. She draws nicely here and should see out the trip. (12) HAPPY WOMAN is another up in class after a good win over 1300M and the jockey and trainer combination will have plenty taking note.
Selections
(2) Yeongdo Galmaegi (7) Ace Guy (6) Beauty Hill (3) April Queen
Next Best
12, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 6, 8
Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) CHEONBISEONG has run consistent times, both at this distance and on his most recent start at 1300M when weakened a touch late on for 7th in a race of narrow margins. He should be on pace here and has the potential to lead all the way. With at least equal claims is (1) VICTORICA. Her sole win to date came at this distance in April when she led gate to wire but her three starts since have been at 1300M with a 2nd and a 3rd among the results but when she hasn’t been able to get to the front. The inside gate today makes her intriguing – she has the fastest finish of all of these and if she is on the lead or even handy, she could be the one to beat. (8) GREEN POKJU is another who will be looking to get to the lead. She failed to do that from gate ten last start and accordingly finished down the field but with a better start she will surely go closer. Cheonbiseong has had the beating of her a couple of times already, but she can see off most of the others. (3) RUN TO GOAL, who can take advantage if the front-runners go too fast, and (9) SEUNGRI YEOJEONSA, up in class after an all the way win at this distance in July, are others to consider.
Selections
(7) Cheonbiseong (1) Victorica (8) Green Pokju (3) Run To Goal
Next Best
9, 6
Fast Start
4, 7, 8, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Seoul’s Saturday meeting will take place behind closed doors although betting outlets in the south of the country will be open for pre-booked punters. Those locations are Busan Racecourse, Busan OCBs (x2), Changwon, Gwangju, Daegu and Cheonan. Bookings must be made using the My Card app. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
Juvenile maidens with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. The favourite will be (7) YAMUJIN GALLOPER, who won his trial in good order, sitting handy to the lead before running on strong although he was ridden out hard. It was a fast time though and he won’t need to improve much on that to win first-up. In terms of experience, (10) THE REAPER ran a good 2nd place on debut on August 22nd when he was on pace for out but just could quite go with a very good winner. He draws wide today but will surely be in the finish and has strong claims. (1) LAROMANEE may only have finished in 9th place on her own debut on August 7th but the margins weren’t big and the time wasn’t bad. She draws much better today so look for her to get on pace and improve. Returning to the debut-makers, (2) DAPHNE and (6) LEGEND SOCKS both went well in their trials and with some natural improvement for the experience, can both be in the mix.
Selections
(7) Yamujin Galloper (10) The Reaper (1) Laromanee (2) Daphne
Next Best
6, 3
Fast Start
1, 6, 7, 10
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
Fillies (and one mare) here. While (3) CUPID WONDER has mixed her form across her seven starts so far, her showing at her latest start on August 8th suggests she is ready to win. She settled midfield that day and ran on strong for 2nd place in a good time. She has a better gate this time and with Johan Victoire climbing aboard, there is plenty to like. (9) MENIFEE MUSIC ran 4th on debut over 1000M back on July 18th. Two of the three who bear her that day ran well in the Rookie Stakes last week so the form of that race has taken a boost. She can settle handy here and run on. (4) NAMSAN CHOCOLATE ran 4th behind Cupid Wonder at her latest start on August 8th. She goes best when close to the pace and from the nice draw here she can compete for the lead. (7) SEMYEONG GANGJA drops back slightly in trip following a good 3rd place over 1300M in July. She is another who mixes her form but won’t need to improve much on that to go close. The only previous winner in the race is (1) TOUCH MY ADELE and that fact alone brings her into the calculations.
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
A very competitive class 5 affair. (2) BLUE HAMMER may be a maiden and may be up in class but he could also be peaking here at start number five. He has some solid performances in the bank at class 6 level including a good 3rd place last time when he overcame gate eleven to sit handy and run on in a good time. He comes down in the weights here, gets a better draw and has Munro in the saddle. He could win. The likely favourite is (1) PARK WIN. He has plenty of experience at this level, and his 2nd place on August 8th at class and distance, beating three of these in the process in a fast time makes him a strong option here. He does go up in the weights but he gets a better draw and he is a real chance. (8) BIG RED comes up in class after registering his maiden win at start number eight on August. The time before he ran a fast time at this distance and he can measure up in today’s company. (7) SOEWAKKOT was a touch disappointing when 2nd over 1200M on August 14th and has to come up in class regardless. While she did tire a little late on having led that day, that doesn’t mean she won’t get the additional half-furlong here. She comes down in the weights and may be worth another chance at a probable each-way price. (9) LAST BOSS is also beautifully weighted and has won at the distance already, albeit at class 6 level.
Selections
(2) Blue Hammer (1) Park Win (8) Big Red (7) Soewakkot
Next Best
9, 11
Fast Start
7, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
Fillies and mares only here. While she comes up 3kg in the weights, it’s hard to look too far beyond (6) LEAD VOCAL. She was a front-running winner at class and distance on August 8th, overcoming a wide draw to get close to the pace. From a better gate this time, she can sit handy behind the speed and may well prove too strong late on. (7) THE QUEEN JUSTICE has the fastest time among these at this distance by some margin. That was achieved when runner-up two starts back and while she only managed 6th place on her return last month, she warrants another chance. She can get a bit far back in her races, as happened last time, but once she gets going, she has a very smart finish on her. (4) ROYAL GHOST remains a maiden after seventeen attempts but has a remarkable fourteen finishes between 2nd and 5th. She was 4th behind Lead Vocal last start and that run can be expected to continue today. (1) LEROY BLANC and (11) SPECIAL STORY among plenty of others in at least the placing hunt.
Selections
(6) Lead Vocal (7) The Queen Justice (4) Royal Ghost (1) Leroy Blanc
Next Best
11, 9
Fast Start
1, 2, 9, 10
Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(4) SINUI ADEUL won three consecutive races between April and June at 1200M and 1300M before his streak came to an end on his first try at this class on August 8th when stepped up to 1400M and running 2nd. He stays nicely down in the weights here, he draws well and while he is yet to run a really fast time at this distance – even when compared with his rivals today – he can return to the winner’s circle. (11) RAON BEAT ran 3rd behind Sinui Adeul in that August 8th race, coming from the middle of the pack and working home strong. He drops back to this trip for the first time since his second career start last November but there is no reason why it can’t suit. He has a great finish on him and if handy to the lead, he could run on well. (6) LADY KELLY is a winner of four from nine having scored at class and distance on August 8th when after a fair start, she was quickly into the lead and ran on well. She comes up slightly in the weights today but should be on speed and will be a danger. (8) EAST IMPACT is up in class and accordingly significantly down in the weights. He has won three of five outings, showing plenty of speed along the way. This is his stiffest assignment to date but if he can get to his favoured position on the lead, he has every chance of winning again. (5) RAON LIGHT MAN was a bit ordinary over 1400M at his latest start but has plenty of speed about him and is a place chance today.
Punters will return in Korea on Friday in a limited way. With the exception of Seoul and Gyeonggi Province and Jeju Island, the rest of the country was returned to a “level 3” Covid alert which means that the racecourses and betting locations in those areas can open at 20% capacity. Of course, the majority of the population – and the vast majority of betting outlets – are in Seoul and Gyeonggi so it is not much, but it is a start with a total of 4,538 seats available for punters spread around the Busan Racecourse, the two Busan OCB’s and the OCB’s in Changwon, Gwangju, Daegu and Cheonan. Reservations must be made in advance through the My Card app, with no walk-up admission. Busan gets the weekend’s action underway with 7 races from 12:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
The seats shall be used this week! (Well not these, ones. These ones are in Seoul)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million
It will surely be third-time lucky for (1) DONGTEUJA BOY. He has finished 3rd in both his starts to date, both times behind promising horses and at his latest in a time two-and-a-half seconds faster than any of the others who go here have achieved for this distance. He draws nicely on the inside to sit on pace or handy and he should be too good. (2) MENI GLORY raced three times in the first half of this year, coming home 2nd on the first two of them. He races here for the first time since April, but looked well when leading and ultimately 2nd in a barrier trial just last week. So long as he didn’t leave his race in the trial, he has little to fear here bar the favourite. (4) DOCTOR PENTAGON didn’t do too much wrong when 5th on debut over 1000M on August 14th. He should have come on for that run and can go closer here. (6) HAEUNDAE BLUE has hinted at progress across three starts to date and from a good central draw can be in the mix here. (5) USEUNG HUNTER ran 4th on debut over 1000M back in February. He hasn’t raced since but ran well in an August trial and comes in with the benefit if an apprentice claim.
Selections
(1) Dongteuja Boy (2) Meni Glory (4) Doctor Pentagon (6) Haeundae Blue
Next Best
5, 7
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million
Tricky race here. Likely favourite is (11) TWO TWO LIME, who has a 2nd and a 3rd in two attempts at this distance so far. She draws wide but overcame gate nine when runner-up two starts back, and carries a nice light weight. She has claims. So too (3) RUN AND GUN. Not the fastest of starters, she has a tendency to get a bit far back in her races but runs on well and has the fastest time for the distance of any of these. The only concern about (8) DAMYANG JEWANG is that he comes back in after almost six months out. He has a runner-up finish to his name at this distance and at a mile and while he didn’t offer too many clues when trialing up on a wet track in August, if he can pick up from where he left off, he has a winning chance. (4) ANNIKA GIRL has mixed her form but at her best can place in this company. (1) GALLOP BOY was a much-improved 2nd at this distance three weeks ago and from the inside gate can maintain that momentum here.
Selections
(11) Two Two Lime (3) Run And Gun (8) Damyang Jewang (4) Annika Girl
Next Best
1, 2
Fast Start
8, 10, 11, 12
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million
Weak maiden here. Four of them raced one another in a very similar class and distance race on August 13th. (9) TRIPLE STORM only managed to finish 7th in that race but it was his first time at the distance and he had previously run consistent times when not too far away over 1400M. He tends to get a bit far back in his races so may need a bit of luck but he could overturn the form. (8) SINBIHAN GANGJA came out the best of them that day, coming from off the pace to work home strongly for 2nd place. That was his best finish to date and came following a significant improved two starts back having previously shown little. He is the logical favourite here. (3) NAMDO ILDEUNG hinted that she might be figuring things out a little quicker than Sinbihan Gangja. She ran 5th in that August 13th race having shown on pace early. She draws well again and should have learned from that experience last time. Among those who didn’t run in the August 13th race, (6) SEONGSAN BULKKOT comes in off a front-running 2nd over 1400M last month and can be competitive here while (1) HONEY STAR steps up to a mile for the first time and it may suit.
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
Good race this with plenty of plausible winners. (4) WONDERFUL JAZZ has finished no worse than 5th in six starts so far and comes in having come from off the pace to run 5th at 1400M. He steps up to a mile for the first time and there is every chance that it can suit. (11) DOCTOR TAKE was a good winner over 1400M at class 6 level two starts back before running on well for 4th over this distance on his first try at class 5 on August 13th. He draws the dame wide gate today, which shouldn’t be a problem, and he has strong claims. (9) LUCAS SUN beat Doctor Take when the pair finished 3rd and 4th when racing each other over this distance at class 6 level. Lucas Sun comes up in class today having finished a good 2nd over 1400M on August 1st and comes down in the weights which brings him into the frame here. (12) K K WON is better than the 8th he finished behind Doctor Take at his latest start suggests. He has run fast times at this distance and while still a maiden, can be in the placing frame today. Last start winner at this distance and up in class today, (7) ACE FOUR TEN is another in the hunt.
Selections
(4) Wonderful Jazz (11) Doctor Take (9) Lucas Sun (12) K K Won
Next Best
7, 1
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 8
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million
(9) HALLA NURI measures up on just about every indicator here and comes in off a really good 2nd place at class and distance on August 13th when 2nd all the way around. She doesn’t draw well today but has run well from wide gates in the past and apprentice jockey booked means she carries a very light weight. She can win. (2) D’LOVELY QUEEN is a winner already at this distance and ran 3rd on her first try at this class on August 22nd. She draws really nicely to be on the early speed here and may not prove easy to catch. Draw a line through the latest performance of (3) MASTER QUEEN when she used up plenty of effort early to get into position from a wide gate. A natural front-runner, she draws much better this time and will be competing with D’Lovely Queen for the lead early and can be in the finish too. (4) CHOEGANG ILSE comes up in class having got her maiden win at start number seven with an all the way score over this distance on July 25th. She led in that race and from a good draw, similar tactics will probably be employed here. The wildcard is (7) WILD BLUE, who hasn’t been seen since winning at 1300M at class 6 level in April. He didn’t give us much to go on with a somewhat anonymous trial in mid-August but he clearly has ability.
Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million
(6) TUHONUI BANSEOK was a superb winner at this class at start number four on August 22nd, cruising away from the field in the final furlong for an easy score at a mile. He steps up in trip today but that should suit and while the 58kg will act as a steadier, he is the one to beat again. (12) HILL MORE is up in class and looks an interesting entry here. He got his maiden win last start at a mile and his running style suggests the additional furlong won’t be a problem. He is nicely weighted and while being drawn in the widest gate is always a nuisance over 1800M at Busan, he looks a good each-way prospect. (10) BURNING PARTY is similar to Hill More in being up in both class and distance here. She is more of a front-runner but she has a light weight and at least a placing chance. (3) QUEEN UP has a lot of experience at this level and rarely runs a bad race. If you value consistency, then she’s the one, although she is another who is tackling two-turns for the first time. (1) TWO TWO LEADS on the other hand is wildly inconsistent but has run a couple of fast times at the distance and is the wildcard.
Selections
(6) Tuhonui Banseok (12) Hill More (10) Burning Party (3) Queen Up
Next Best
1, 4
Fast Start
3, 5, 9, 10
Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
A really competitive race to finish with. (2) B.K JOHN is the probably favourite and justifiably so. He comes on off three consecutive runner- up finishes, two of them at a mile with the other at this distance. Tactically versatile, he draws well today and he has a good finish on him meaning there is plenty to like. (9) KING SOCKS returned from eighteen months off in July and had a hard time of it working hard to get on pace before weakening over 1200M. On the face of it, today’s is just as tough an assignment but he should be much better for that run and now, a further nine weeks down the line, could be ready to make a proper impact. (6) ROYAL TICKET beat four of these on his way to a class and distance win on August 14th when he sat handy and ran on. He comes up considerable in the weights as a result but don’t rule out a repeat. (1) RAON YEOGEOL ran 3rd in that race having led for much of it. She meets Royal Ticket on much better terms weight-wise and can get closer. (8) ECHO SUN, up in class after a smart win over this distance at class 4 level a month ago, is another in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(2) B.K John (9) King Socks (6) Royal Ticket (1) Raon Yeogeol
Horse Racing in Korea 