Busan

Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 8)

There are behind closed doors meetings on Saturday at both Seoul (8 races from 11:00 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:30 to 16:50). The only betting locations open in Korea are those in Jeju, Daegu, Gwangju, Changwon and Cheonan where advance reservations through the MyCard app must be made.

It just never ends….

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Three-year-old fillies go around in the opener. (1) BURUI YEOWANG was a smart winner on debut, always prominent over 1200M in a fair time on a wet track. For her return she drops back in trip but has drawn nicely on the inside and has solid claims to get on top early and maintain her 100% record. She’ll be the hot favourite. Of the others who have raced before, (11) MAGIC TIDE looks the most promising having run a pleasing 3rd in a decent time at this distance on debut before being 6th when stepped up to 1200M on re-appearance. She can settle just off the pace and run on. The main dangers are the first-time starters though with more than one catching the eye in trials. (6) JUNGCHUBUSA went through a couple of heats and while she was pretty ordinary in the first of them, looked much more assured when crossing the line 1st in the most recent of those in April. (12) SOEWAKKOT posted a god time when trialing up in 2nd place with the first horse over the line in that heat having debuted creditably last week while (8) SOBERANIA is another who will be expected to go well first-up.

Selections(1) Burui Yeowang (6) Jungchubusa (11) Magic Tide (12) Soewakkot
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

All but one of these races for the very first time. The one with experience, (7) MAGIC HILL, did ok on debut, leading for part of the race before weakening over 1200M. She’s down in trip, down in the weights and should have come on for the experience which puts her right in the mix here. As for the newcomers, nothing really pulled up trees in its trial. (11) BABEL LILAC recorded the fastest time which will be enough to see her fancied by plenty but it was a fast heat on a quick track. (2) LUCKY RUN was the one who probably emerged with most credit from her heat, battling on well for a competent 4th in a solid if unspectacular time. She draws well and looks a danger. (10) ECOPIA was on pace quickly in her trial and finished off well in the leading group. She draws wide but with a good start again, should be a factor. (3) RAY VICTOR perhaps best of the rest.

Selections(7) Magic Hill (2) Lucky Run (11) Babel Lilac (10) Ecopia
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Maidens go around here. (1) BEOWULF has made enough progress across two trials and then his 3rd place on debut to warrant favourite status. He sat midfield and then ran on well and with the inside gate today to his benefit, if he continues on the same trajectory he has followed so far, then he can win. (12) USEUNG HWANHUI seems to be figuring things out with two 3rd place finishes from her latest three starts. Both those came at 1400M so she is back in trip today but she does have the fastest time of any of these at today’s distance and while she has drawn inconveniently, she can go close. Also back in trip is (6) SEMYEONG CAPTAIN, who showed considerable improvement to place 2nd at this latest start. He has tended to get quite far back in his races but if Park Eul-woon can get him a bit closer a bit earlier, he has claims. (7) GUK HYANG and (11) RETURN BALLY BRAE are others with placing hopes.

Selections(1) Beowulf (12) Useung Hwanhui (6) Semyeong Captain (7) Guk Hyang
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start4, 9, 10, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 22 Million

Two last start winners go head to head here and both of them did absolutely nothing on their respective debuts before coming out to win second-up. (4) ALIVE STAR is slightly favoured. His debut was back in December and he subsequently went through two trials before coming back to score a really good win just twelve days ago on April 25th. He looked to be getting stronger as the race progressed and can strike again here while the iron is hot. (6) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI clung on for a gutsy all the way win over 1400M on March 6th. The Alternation colt had previously weakened on debut over this distance but has clearly come on plenty since then. He’ll probably lead again and Alive Star will be forced to try and come past him. (2) GWANGDAESEUNGCHEON showed signs of improvement when beating a couple of these on his way to 4th place a month ago and he can build on that here. (11) SEOBU QUEEN has been consistent across her four starts so far with three 3rd place finishes and she should be there of thereabouts again while (13) CHEONGMA HWANGHU has also hinted at ability.

Selections(4) Alive Star (6) Busanhang Galmaegi (11) Seobu Queen (13) Cheongma Hwanghu
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start4, 9, 10, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 22 Million

(5) SILVER DRAGON returned from eight months out to run a good 2nd on March 28th at this distance coming from well back to flash home. Ueda Masashi keeps the ride and they can go one better today. The main danger and possible betting favourite is (7) ROSEDAY MARINE. She has been relatively consistent across her five outings so far culminating in 2nd place at this distance on April 4th. She’ll be ridden relatively close to the pace and will surely be in the mix at the finish. (3) RAON THE TIGER drops back in trip after a couple of spins around 1400M with mixed results. He’s drawn well to get on pace here and can stick around to contest at least the places. The only previous winner in the field is (6) LEROY BLANC, who scored over 1400M two starts back. He didn’t so much on reappearance but is worth consideration in what isn’t a strong race. (8) OFFICER COMMANDING another in the hunt.

Selections(5) Silver Dragon (7) Roseday Marine (6) Leroy Blanc (3) Raon The Tiger
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 13

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (9) SAGARMATHA is a winner of two from four so far, finishing 3rd in the other two. She’s one of four up in class following last start wins but looks best equipped to deal with the step up. She is a front runner, who should be on pace from the start and can go all the way. (4) MASTER QUEEN ran 2nd to Sagarmatha in February before registering a maiden win of her own three weeks ago. She too is a natural leader and she has the better of the draw suggesting she may be able to cause the favourite some problems. (12) MORNING THUNDER hasn’t raced since winning at class 6 last July. Obviously she’ll need this run but she looked good when putting in a fast time in a trial two weeks ago and could surprise on debut. (5) DALLAE has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and is sure to be in the finish again while (7) GREAT GO remains a maiden but is rarely far away and can be considered fort a place once more.

Selections(9) Sagarmatha (4) Master Queen (5) Dallae (12) Morning Thunder
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 9
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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Blue Chipper, Tiz Plan – Race-By-Race Preview (May 2)

Two of the biggest names in Korea racing will be in action on Sunday. Blue Chipper headlines Busan’s 6 race card (from 12:50 to 17:00) while Tiz Plan goes in the feature at Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00). Both meetings will be staged behind closed doors although betting outlets at Jeju, Daegu, Changwon, Cheonan and Gwangju are open to pre-booked punters. Here are the previews:

Blue Chipper, seen here in another era, goes on Sunday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fourteen maidens go around here. (5) CHOEGANG JANGSAN is the first foal out of 2014 Korean Derby and Oaks winning filly Queen’s Blade. He wasn’t ready when he first trialed in January, after which he was gelded. He then put in a more assured and workmanlike performance when having another go in a good time two weeks ago. He should go well first-up in modest company. (2) MORNING FLASH was well back in the field last start before running on well late for 7th. He was wide the time before but ran on resolutely for a close 3rd. He draws well here and is worth some thought. (6) BANGTAN YEOGEOL has shown improvement across three starts so far, running on strong last time and looks a placing hope while (13) KOREA GIJEOK too has hinted at ability and while he may need some luck in running, shouldn’t be dismissed. (11) HOUYHNHM another in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Choegang Jangsan (2) Morning Flash (6) Bantan Yeogeol (11) Houyhnhnm
Next Best13, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here. (4) LEAD VOCAL was a winner at her last start in fine style when she led on a very wet track. She led by a large margin and while it was cut, she drops back in trip today which could suit even more and she is a real chance. (1) RUBICON has finally drawn a decent gate. She’s had to deal with wide draws in three of her starts so far and last time overcame gate 14 to work home strong for 2nd place. She has very solid claims of making her breakthrough today. (12) CHOEGANG BLACK ran a great race on a wet track on debut. She drew in the car park and slightly fly-jumped on exiting the barrier but still ran on for 2nd. The draw doesn’t help her much again but the experience might. (8) MISS ELITE is constant at this class and distance and while she doesn’t leap off the page as a winner she has enough form to suggest a place line. (5) CHEONGDAM TANK drops back in trip after a god 2nd over 1400M last start and should also be in the calculations.

Selections(4) Lead Vocal (1) Rubicon (12) Choegang Black (8) Miss Elite
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 10, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

Three standouts here. (1) WINNER IS WELL has own both starts so far and comes in having bolted up last start when handy early and then wide and fighting his jockey because he wanted to go faster. The lightly-raced five-year-old steps up to 1400M and can settle handy here with strong claims to make it three in a row. (5) K N MENIQUEEN got her maiden win two starts back and might have won last time as well had the barriers been reversed with the ultimate winner. She ran on well for 2nd and while up in class and trip today, has plenty going for her. So too does (6) BIG RIVER. She ran a nice 2nd last start when on pace at class and distance beaten only by the very promising Winner Templar. She will run on strong here. (10) MANSE is never far away at the finish and looks like he has another win in him at some stage. If he can settle a bit closer to the action today, he should be in the frame.

Selections(1) Winner Is Well (5) K N Meniqueen (6) Big River (10) Manse
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only to kick off the Busan card. There is going to be a strong favourite in (10) GOLD LUCK. She’s run on strong for 2nd in both her latest two starts, beaten by reasonable winners on both occasions and recording by some margin the best pair of times of any of these for the distance. She can settle handy again and should be winning. The rest of them all need to step up. (13) USEUNG GANGJA was 6th behind Gold Luck last start following on from a 5th on debut. She’s been improving at the line on both occasions and can be aiming to place here. (3) MACH ROAD hasn’t done too much wring in two outings to date and like Useung Gangja has been finishing off her races well. She draws well here and can be competitive. Draw a line through the latest effort of (9) WONDERFUL SMILE. She got sent back to trial after it and she looked decent enough when requalifying two weeks ago. There are two first-time starters and of the pair, (5) IRON GIRL looks best equipped first-up following a positive trial.

Selections(10) Gold Luck (13) Useung Gangja (5) Iron Girl (9) Wonderful Smile
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start2, 10, 13, 14

Seoul Race 4: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 35 Million

(5) LOVELY K shapes up as a real contender here following a good win on a very wet track on March 28th. She raced handily and ran on late indicating the extra furlong will be no trouble. (4) ANYANG OXEN has serious claims of his own. He loves the 1400M, getting his solitary win at it two starts back and then beating a couple of these at the end of March running a super time on an admittedly fast track. He has a better barrier today as he likes to be close to the pace and with any luck at all, he will be right in the finish. (1) EAGLE EAGLE is still a maiden but has shown good consistency in his recent appearances. He likes to lead and the inside draw should help him in that aspect and he must be considered for at least another place. (13) MOONHAK DREAM ran 4th behind Anyang Oxen on March 28th. He is another maiden but the Gemologist colt has also been a consistent placegetter at shorter distances and looks a fair shout for some money again. (14) JANGSAN TANK perhaps best of the rest.

Selections(5) Lovely K (4) Anyang Oxen (1) Eagle Eagle (13) Moonhak Dream
Next Best14, 11
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Competitive race. (2) NEW FIRE is probably a worthy favourite with a 4th and a 3rd from his first two efforts at 1000M and 1400M respectively. He beat three of today’s rivals last time coming from midfield to run 3rd to Mr. Indie and he can make his breakthrough today. (5) CHOEGANG LIGER remains a maiden after eleven attempts but is rarely far away and he has been very consistent of late. He was 4th behind New Fire last start from a wide draw and is tactically versatile so will probably sit handy here and run on. (4) FIRST CHANCE has shown promise in his first two outings, acquitting himself well in decent looking company and he can continue to make progress today, most likely from on the pace. (12) SHINING HILL and (13) SKY MORE are others who should come into the calculations.

Selections(2) New Fire (5) Choegang Liger (13) Sky More (12) Shining Hill
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 13

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 35 Million

We can draw a line through the latest effort of (8) HEUNGROK DAEBU at what proved a too much too soon 1800M. Instead, we’ll focus on his class and distance victory two starts back in a good time. That win had been coming and he can return to successful ways today. (5) BULGULUI RUNNER also needs his last start disregarded. In his case he was badly hampered at the start so we will look to his prior win at this distance. Although he has run on strong in his latest two, he seems to get better results when in a handy position and he’s well drawn to do that today. This isn’t an especially strong race so (9) QUANTUM JUMP is another who can be forgiven his latest. He has since trialed up well and is worthy of another chance here. (4) DANGCHAN SERYEOK and (6) LIONETTE are others in the hunt.

Selections(8) Heungrok Daebu (5) Bulgului Runer (9) Quantum Jump (4) Dangchan Seryeok
Next Best6, 14
Fast Start8, 11, 12, 14

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(2) LUCKY BREAK was a last start winner at class and distance with a prominent run form a wide draw. While that win came from nowhere, she warrants respect here and nothing else in the field has matched the time at the distance that she recorded so a repeat isn’t impossible. We’ll take her on though with (4) YEONGWON POWER. He too had an uptick in form when stepped up to a mile last start when 2nd to Haenam Hammer, coming from well off the pace. Expect similar tactics today and he could be too strong late on. (8) MAJOR FORCE has run on well a couple of times, hinting that he might take to running at this distance well and should be aiming for a career best finish so far here. (5) GOLD MAGIC another in the placing frame in what can be described as a modest affair.

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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-by-Race Preview (May 1)

The National Assembly’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee this week passed an amendment to the Bicycle Racing Act to permit the online sale of betting tickets for cycle racing (Keirin), potentially saving that industry from Covid-shutdown induced oblivion. The equivalent Agriculture committee, under whose jurisdiction racing falls, is yet to pass a similar bill for horse racing, for whom the existential threat looms larger than ever. There is behind closed doors horse racing on Saturday at Seoul (8 races from 11:00 to 18:00 and Busan (6 races from 11:30 to 16:50). Betting outlets at Jeju, Gwangju, Daegu, Changwon and Cheonan will be open at 10% indoor capacity. Here are the previews:

Thinking of relaunching this site as a Keirin blog

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies kick us off. (7) MAGIC RECORD was a winner on debut over this distance on March 28th when she overcame a wide draw to take up a handy position before running on strong in a good time on an admittedly wet and fast track. She draws better today and with any kind of improvement at all, she’ll be hard to beat. (5) CHEONMA TODAY won back to back races at class and distance in November and December. She has raced twice since then at 1300M and 1400M, both times being prominent early before running out of steam late on. She should be happier back down in trip today and is the main danger. (1) SHINE MUSIC returned from eight months out to run a decent 3rd in fast race over 1300M at the end of March and can build on that today. (8) GLOBAL CHEONSA has mixed her form a little but has hinted at ability too. There is one debut maker and (4) AQUA PUNCH led her trial before running 3rd in a good time and can go well first-up.

Selections(7) Magic Record (5) Cheonma Today (4) Aqua Punch (1) Shine Music
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Maidens here. (4) COOL GUY has finished 2nd in both of his starts so far at 1000M and at 1200M and both times behind promising looking winners. His time for this distance was considerably faster than anything else in this field has managed to date and from gate 4 he is likely to be on or close to the pace from the start. He will be hot favourite and should win against a weak set of opposition. (2) FANTASTIC LEADER was sent back to trials after an inauspicious debut in January but returned in better order with a 3rd place at this distance in March. It wasn’t a fast time but if he can continue to improve, he should figure here. Similarly bad on debut was (6) CARIBBEAN DAY. He too got sent back to trial and he looked well in it posting a good time. Expect better today. (5) SORI TAEPUNG and (13) DRAGON ROYAL are others with scope to improve and compete for some minor money, Sori Taepung absolutely blitzing a trial earlier this month.

Selections(4) Cool Guy (2) Fantastic Leader (6) Caribbean Day (5) Sori Taepung
Next Best13, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) OLD SPECIAL has beaten a few of these across his latest two starts, both times running on strong from wide draws for 2nd and 4rg at 1200M and 1300M. He gets the inside gate today which should make life a bit easier and he is favoured to make the breakthrough. (5) BEST CHEONSANG ran 3rd to Old Special’s 2nd when they raced one another at this distance back in February. Best Cheonsang had led for much of that race and she was similarly prominent before running 4th on her latest appearance in March. She too draws well to lead she can be a danger. (2) GIMCHEON YEONGUNG did nothing too wrong when 3rd on debut in March having come through a heap of trials. He too is likely to aim to get on the early speed. (9) SONGAM CAT won at ridiculous odds last time out having previously shown no clue that she was actually a racehorse. As the only previous winner in this field, some grudging respect must therefore be accorded but this race does look better and lighting perhaps won’t strike again. There is one debut maker and she looks to have promise. (3) SMART HIGH comfortably won a trial at the beginning of this month and the Smarty Jones filly goes straight into contention.

Selections(1) Old Special (5) Best Cheonsang (3) Smart High (2) GImcheon Yeongung
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Tricky one. (10) FIGHT DREAM came from well back to run a fast 2nd over 1300M on April 4th, a big improvement from his debut at 1200M. The additional half furlong today may well suit and he is sure to be one of the leading contenders. (1) GANGJAUICHEONGCHUN has also come from well off the pace in both of his outings to date. They both came at this distance and he improved from 5th on debut to 3rd last time when he beat a couple of the others who go here. He will surely be involved again but has to be careful to not leave himself too much to do. Getting 5kg from both those is (5) UNJU SESANG. She races for just the second time and hasn’t been seen since her debut back in January when she was a strong 2nd over 1200M. Today’s distance could well suit and she looks very nicely in with plenty of potential to improve. (2) BAEDARI ICON and (4) ADELE SMART, the latter the only previous winner in the field, are others with claims.

Selections(5) Unju Sesang (10) Fight Dream (1) Gangjauicheongchun (4) Adele Smart
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(13) FEDERAL EYE has been knocking on the door in his latest few starts and drops back in trip slightly after a strong 3rd when favourite on April 3rd. The wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and Moon Se Young remains aboard the filly who is set to be a warm favourite to break thourhg at start number six here. The leading challengers also have wide gates. (12) K BLADE was a much improved 4th at this distance last start and can maintain that momentum today while (11) TAKE HEART has shown steady progression across three starts so far, culminating in a good 2rd place at 1400M last time out. In a race with not much early speed, Kim Yong Geun may be tempted to take her to the front early, despite the gate. The rest looks a bit ordinary with (3) BUL HWASAN and (7) SOUJU, the latter 5th behind Take Heart last time, perhaps the most likely to make an impact.

Selections(13) Federal Eye (12) K Blade (11) Take Heart (7) Souju
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 11, 14

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(4) COLOR WIND made all to break through at start number six on March 27th with an emphatic score at this distance. It was certainly visually impressive and the time in the conditions was creditable too. She’s drawn nicely again and could well back up. She is up in class though and this is a stiffer test though. (5) ACHIM BIT comes in off a good class and distance 2nd three weeks ago. She likes to sit just off the speed and has a strong finish on her and she will be a danger in the closing stages. Draw a line through (2) MAN OF THE WORLD’s most recent performance on March 27th as it was first up after four months off. The Hansen gelding may be yet to win in thirteen attempts but he has eight top five finishes and should be better today. Like Color Wins, (8) DONGNAM BULPAE comes in a last start winner. He too made all and while his times haven’t been consistently quick as some of the others and he is up in class, he comes down in the weights and can be competitive. (9) FINAL PARTY mixes his form but goes well on his day and looks a potential place line.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Cheongdam Dokki, Morfhis, Dia Road, Dokki Blade – Race-By-Race Preview (April 25)

There is a treat in store in the very final race of the weekend as Cheongdam Dokki faces off with Morfhis over 1400M. The pair have the likes of Dia Road and Do Kki Blade also in attendance in what should be a thrilling climax to Sunday’s card at Seoul (10 races from 1:45 to 18:00). There is also a card at Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00). Both racecourses are closed to spectators with only betting outlets in Jeju, Daegu, Gwangju, Cheonan and Changwon in operation. Here are the previews:

Cheongdam Dokki will attempt to fend off Morfhis and Do Kki Blade on Sunday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Three-year-old maidens get the day underway and (1) NORWAY THIRD will be a hot favourite She was a fair 2nd on her only start to date when she worked her way around from a wide draw. She’s got the inside today and should prove hard to beat. (7) NONGBON BADA was 3rd on her debut at this distance back in January and while she could only manage 9th on her return at 1200M in March, the margins weren’t huge and back down in trip today she should be a factor. (11) NAMSAN CHOCOLATE too can have her last start disregarded when keen, wide and hampered on a wet track and should be better today. The other dangers look set to come from the first timer starters. Of them, (12) DONGHAENG looks the best having led for much of the way around in her trial before running solid 2nd in a good time. (2) BIG ENERGY and (10) LEGEND BOURSE could also go well first-up.

Selections(1) Norway Third (7) Nongbon Bada (11) Namsan Chocolate (12) Donghaeng
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) THUNDER CHAMP is ready to win following two consecutive runner-up finishes. Last start he led easily over 1300M only to be grabbed on the line. He is nicely drawn again and should frank his good form with a maiden win. The betting market will no doubt reflect that so if you are inclined to take her on, (8) CINDERELLA may be the best chance. She was a good 2nd on debut and did little wrong when 6th over 1300M last start. She has her Prince Charming Antonio aboard and while she may well end up the ugly sister again, a trip to the ball doesn’t look to be too far in the future. (9) SMARTY TREM showed improvement on his second start and if he continues on that trajectory then he should be in the placing frame today. (1) BORAQUEEN and (2) JISANGUN are others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Thunder Champ (8) Cinderella (9) Smarty Trem (1) Boraqueen
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) GREEN POKJU gets her chance here after a good run last start when she stumbled at the stat before working forward to be in a handy spot on battled on gamely. She comes into barrier 1 today and has a great chance. So too does (2) RED PINE. She’s run on very well for 3rd and 2nd in her last two starts. She is back to 1200M where she hasn’t done her best work but she looks sure to make her presence felt here and will be running on strong. (13) RULES CLASS has been a touch inconsistent across four starts to date but did beat three of these on his way to 2nd place last start at this distance. He may need a bit of luck from the outside gate but should be in the mix. (3) BLUE HAMMER ran a good 3rd on debut settling well back before powering home. A repeat of that run, even without any improvement should see him firmly in the placing frame. (11) NUBIGO looks best of the rest.

Selections(1) Green Pokju (2) Red Pine (13) Rules Class (3) Blue Hammer
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 10, 13

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Ten of these have raced once before, one of them once and three of them not at all. The only previous winner in the field is the one with two starts under her belt, (14) APRIL QUEEN. She scored on debut over 1000M but failed to follow up when well back over today’s distance on her return. Nevertheless, her experience does earn her some respect and she should be competitive. The favourites though will come from the first-time starters. (8) B J MISS caught the eye in trials. She ran 2nd to an experienced filly in a fast time and if she brings anything like that form to the races then she will be hard to beat. (10) RUN FIGHTER won his trial, running through the line well and looks the primary danger. Completing the trio of newcomers with chances is (9) TRIPLE JILJU, who wile a little slower than the other pair, was on pace throughout his heat and stayed on nicely. Returning to the prior experience ones, (2) ALIVE STAR did little on debut but has since trialed up twice and looks set to improve.

Selections(8) B J Miss (10) Run Fighter (14) April Queen (2) Alive Star
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(5) GHOST VILLAGE comes in following a solid 3rd place behind Raon Beat and Alpha Dok over 1400M. He faces nothing like the pair of them today and could well be the one to beat. (9) JOEUN GWANGYE made up a lot of ground last start to run 3rd at this distance. Disregarding the start before that when he was an impeded by a horse who had dislodged its jockey, he is yet to finish outside the top five and should be in the mix here. (6) GEUMA FLAWLESS has been finishing off his races well and may appreciate the slight increase in trip today. And looks a placing line while (8) STAR RUSH ran his best race to date last start when 3rd over 1200M. His times haven’t been especially quick but he’s by no means alone in that in this company. (2) SARANG DAMOA and (3) ACHILLION are others in the frame.

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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 24)

There are behind closed doors meetings on Saturday at both Seoul (8 races from 11:00 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:30 to 16:50). The only locations open for betting within in Korea will be Jeju Racecourse as well as the Off-track betting centres in Daegu, Gwangju, Changwon and Cheonan. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A maiden to begin with. Five of the twelve are racing for the first time and one of them, (6) LUMINOUS QUEEN, may start as favourite. The Simon Pure filly ran 2nd in her only official trial in what was a creditable time under today’s top jockey. This isn’t the most intimidating race to begin in and she should go well. We’ll side with experience though and go with the consistent (2) THUNDER K. He’s finished in the top five on four of six outings to date and has run decent times at this distance. He is well drawn to lead, has Antonio Da Silva in the saddle for the first time, and could make his breakthrough today. (10) WONDERFUL MAMBO is the only one in the race to have a 2nd place finish to her name and that brings her into the calculations again. (9) REAL CONCORD, a stablemate of Luminous Queen, and (11) TORUK MAKTO are others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Thunder K (6) Luminous Queen (10) Wonderful Mambo (9) Real Concord
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Twelve previously unraced three-year-olds go around here so we need to head to the trial videos for clues. (5) KING ALLIE was the standout, leading his heat all the way to come home in the kind of time that would win plenty of races over this distance. He’s a half-brother to Stakes winning sprinter Do Kki Blade and will be favourite to score first-up here. (2) ANNIKA GIRL also put in a worthy trial performance, registering a quick time and the Kim Young-kwan/Djordje Perovic connection will ensure that she has plenty of backers. Her dam was a solid racehorse in Korea and produced a couple of other useful types. (6) GEUMBANJI came through the same trial as Annika Girl and acquitted herself well enough to have placing chances first-up. (4) GLORY SONG and (8) JJANG I are others who will be expected to get some support.

Selections(5) King Allie (2) Annika Girl (8) Jjang I (6) Geumbanji
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(8) DREAM KNOCK will be favourite. After running 5th on debut, he was a close 2nd when stepped up to this trip on March 14th. She has the fastest time of any of these at the distance by some margin and can settle handy here before running on strong. (1) TIFFANY BLUE ran on pleasingly enough on debut, making good ground late over the 1000M to finish 6th. She should have come on for that and the step up in trip can be to her benefit. Having run well over 1000M on debut, (10) STEAL THE FASHION didn’t do too much wrong when 6th over 1400M at start number two last month. Today’s distance should suit more and she can go close. (12) MODERN BEST and (7) WOL YEONG I came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other over this distance on March 21st and both look to have placing claims again.

Selections(8) Dream Knock (1) Tiffany Blue (10) Steal The Fashion (12) Moden Best
Next Best7, 14
Fast Start7, 10, 11, 14

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Twelve maiden fillies here. (4) WORLD REMEMBER and (3) QUEEN HARLEY came home 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced each other at 1200M on March 20th. For World Remember it was a big uptick in form following some very average performances, while for Queen Harley, it was her first ever race. There is an extra furlong to play with today and while both should be in the hunt, we’ll go with Queen Harley as having the more potential for improvement. (1) WHITE GALLOPER and (2) HAPPY WOMAN both come in having shown a bit of promise so far. White Galloper has tended to get caught back and wide but has still run on pleasingly enough. She has a much better draw today and can be in the mix. Happy Woman hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but has been competitive and can be so again. So too (6) STEADY WINNER, who has indeed been steady rather than spectacular across three starts to date and looks a place line here.

Selections(3) Queen Harley (4) World Remember (6) Steady Winner (1) White Galloper
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Very tricky race here. While (4) BEST STORM wasn’t hugely impressive when 7thover 1400M last start, we’ll drawn a line through that as he after a slow start he ended up well back in the field most of the way around. Two starts back he ran a strong 2nd to Spotlight and could be the one to beat here. (3) BRAVO MAY too was just average on his latest appearance but had previously put in some solid performances and should be going close here. Along with Best Storm, the only other horse in the field to have a runner-up finish to his name is (12) CONDOR YEOWANG. That was on her second – and most recent – start all the way back last August over 1000M. She looked well when running 2nd in a fast time in a trial at the start of this month and there’s no reason why she shouldn’t go well first-up against this limited set of opposition. (2) HIT ACE and (8) CHEONSANGSEONG are others who should be competing for at least minor money.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 18)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00). Both meetings will be run behind closed doors but the Jeju Racecourse as well as OCBs at Daegu, Gwangju and Cheonan will be open for betting. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) CHEON CHONG gets his chance here following a good 3rd place over 1400M where he led until close to the line. He’s got a nice draw here to get prominent early and has a winning chance. (6) DASI DUSON has been competitive in her latest two. She was a close 6th at 1300M in January before running 2nd at this distance on March 7th, leading and battling on in the straight. She will challenge for the lead and has claims. (10) ILHYANG DALMA has placed twice from three starts and beat a number of these when 3rd last time out. She hung a little in the straight but finished off well enough and improvement is possible. (7) MISS YANGHO is the only previous winner in the field having struck three starts back at this distance in a good time. She was slow away last start but ran on well and can be considered. (11) GREEN FEELSTAR did nothing wrong when 4th on debut at the distance and is another with potential to improve.

Selections(3) Cheon Chong (6) Dasi Duson (10) Ilhyang Dalma (7) Miss Yangho
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (5) THE QUEEN JUSTICE ran a super race last start over this distance. She overcame the widest gate to run on speed the whole way around and only to go down narrowly into 2nd place. She gets a much better draw this time and should have the run of the race. (1) NOKRICHONG is the only previous winner in the field. That came last start when she was shuffled back in the field early but rallied to run home strongly. From barrier 1 she can sit handy and finish strongly again. (10) EUNHYE PADO’s latest effort was better than it appears on paper as she was slowly away and then hampered which resulted in her being back and wide before running on fairly. She has placed at this distance and shouldn’t be overlooked. (14) REMEMBER WHEN has run some useful enough times for this class at 1200M. Given the draw she may need some luck but could sneak a place. (12) DELPHINI was much improved second-up making up good ground and the additional half furlong may suit.

Selections(5) The Queen Justice (1) Nokrichong (10) Eunhye Pado (12) Delphini
Next Best14, 13
Fast Start1, 5, 10, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(2) ALPHA DOK looks ready to win. He was a distant 3rd two starts back when hampered at the start before colliding with the running rail before running on creditably Last time he worked forwards to lead easily from a wide gate ultimately accounting for all but a good w inner, Raon Beat. Great draw here and he’s warm favourite. (14) DREAM FASHION has been on the improve of late and ran on late from a wide positon for a good 2nd place last start. The draw doesn’t do him any favours but it’s not as if he is a good starter anyway and he can run on. (10) QUEENS TOUR got buffeted all over the place early on last start before regaining her composure to run a strong 2nd. That was just her second start and she showed good maturity in adversity which she can build on here. (8) AMAZING QUEEN and (11) GEUMSEONG CHARMING the others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(2) Alpha Dok (10) Queens Tour (14) Dream Fashion (8) Amazing Queen
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here and while it is a bit risky to read too much into trials, (12) PUREUN JANGMI certainly looked the part in hers when 2nd in a fast time back in March having led for much of the heat. From the track’s top stable and with Perovic aboard, she probably starts favourite. Of those with experience, (6) MASTER QUEEN is the best. She led for most of the way around last start before being collared by a good winner at the distance. She is well drawn to lead again and will be there or thereabouts at the business end. So too should (8) PARTY INDY. Her best finish so far was last time over 1000M but she can get on pace here and stick to task. (9) GEUMA STARLET was promising enough on debut to warrant keeping an eye on while (11) DONGBANUI SIJAK is the only previous winner in the field and not to be overlooked either.

Selections(12) Pureun Jangmi (6) Master Queen (11) Dongbanui Sijak (8) Party Indy
Next Best9, 14
Fast Start6, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) SERVE ACE is working up towards a win and has been strong in her latest two, both over 1300M. Last time out she was ridden early to get a handy position behind the leader and then stuck to task well for 2nd. The extra distance should suit and today could be her day. Main danger is (6) GO WELL, whose last start can be disregarded as it went anything but well with him losing any chance at the start. He has some good form behind him though and has placed at 1400M. He is another whose style should suit the two-turns. (8) LONDON HEAT is one of just three who have raced at this distance already. That was two starts back when he overcame a wide trip to briefly strike the front in the home straight before being headed. Place chances here. (12) HAWKUI YEONGGWANG also has place chances. He was a close 3rd last time out on a wet track over 1300M. (7) ISTHMUS has run on pleasingly enough in both previous outings and is another who may appreciate more distance.

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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 17)

For racing to continue at its current level of two days a week, we need the social distancing levels to remain at “1.5” in at least Jeju Island, Daegu and Gwangju (and ideally Cheonan). They are currently at level “2.0” in Seoul and Busan but with no vaccine progress and the virus cases predicted by both local media and government to rise significantly next week, it is possible that in the capital at least there will be further restrictions. This weekend and next weekend should be ok though. Saturday sees 8 races at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 6 races at Busan from 11:30 to 16:50. Here are the previews:

There has been some fine spring weather recently

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Maiden fillies get things underway for the weekend. (4) GOLDEN CHANCE will probably be favourite off the back of a 4th and a 2nd in two starts so far. She came close to making all in the latter of those, which was at this distance, and is nicely drawn to get to the front early again. (5) LONDON POWER ran well for 3rd on debut over 1000M at the end of February. She was well back behind a good winner but should have come on for the run and can be a danger. (1) DANCING WITH YOU showed promise in her first two outings and while she put in a poor effort in her third, she has subsequently trialed up well and should be a factor. (13) MACH JIJON is another who can have a line drawn through her latest effort. She has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and can go better today. (14) CHOEGANG QUEEN is the solitary debut maker. She didn’t catch the eye in trials but all the others from her dam have been winners and she is worth keeping an eye on.

Selections(5) London Power (4) Golden Chance (13) Mach Jijon (1) Dancing With you
Next Best10, 13
Fast Start1, 10, 11, 13

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Just one previous winner in the field and that status is enough to ensure that (8) ACE SOLOMON is well-backed here. Always prominent he ran on to win very comfortably over this distance on March 6th. He carries only slightly more weight today and should be on pace once more with every chance of a repeat. (13) MUJEOK BULPAE registered a pleasing enough 2nd on debut over 1000M on February 27th. He had previously shown good speed in a trial and should have come on for that run to be a big danger here. (5) SEONGSIL SONYEO came from off the pace to run 2nd at this distance a month ago and can aim for the places again. There are three first time starters and a couple of them look to have claims first-up. Both (11) BURNING GUN and (14) CONSTANTINE ran 2nd in their respective trials and while the draw does neither of them any favours, both should acquit themselves well.

Selections(8) Ace Solomon (13) Mujeok Bulpae (5) Seongsil Sonyeo (14) Constantine
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A maiden that is somewhat on the weak side. The only one of them to have even finished in the top three before is (11) CHAMILHO and that’s enough to make her favourite. Forget her latest effort when the 1400M didn’t suit, she’s back at 1200M today and shouldn’t be bothered by the wide draw. We’re going to side with the solitary debut-maker though. (14) SMART OFFICER came from the middle of the pack to win a trial at the end of March. While she has the worst of the draw, she couldn’t have asked for a softer race to debut in and she won’t need to improve much off that trial to win. (6) DOUBLE TAKE did nothing on debut but previously clocked a good time in a trial so is worth another chance here while (8) AURORA ROAD and (10) VESPER are others who can improve on inauspicious starts.

Selections(14) Smart Officer (11) Chamilho (10) Vesper (6) Double Take
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 11, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Competitive race here. (8) THE WIN beat a couple of these when 3rd in a promising enough debut on March 27th. True, he was some way back behind a good winner but ran on pleasingly and the additional furlong could be to his benefit today. (13) JAMAICA POWER was 4th in that race on what was his debut too. He perhaps has a bit more to find but the jockey booking is eye-catching. The main threat though is (10) MIDNIGHT QUEEN. While she was only 7th last time out, she finished ahead of a couple of these in a good time in what was a much stiffer test. She has every chance here. (12) JEMA FORTUNE actually beat Midnight Queen two starts back and for that fact alone, has to come into the equation today. (3) JANGSAN PRIDE and (9) OX BOY are others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections(8) The Win (10) Midnight Queen (9) Ox Boy (3) Jangsan Pride
Next Best12, 13
Fast Start4, 10, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

It’s time that (7) GLOBAL YEONGUNG won a race. The Take Charge Indy colt comes in off the back of near-misses in each of his latest three outings at 1200M and 1400M. He can sit handy here from a good draw and should be too strong in the latter stages. If he does come up short again then another Take Charge Indy, (9) NONSTOP GISANG, may take advantage. He too has started to figure things out in his latest two and can continue his development here. (5) JOEUN SAI ran a useful time when 4th at this distance last start and warrants attention as place hope while (3) ONE JI too come sin off his best finish to date last start and can maintain some momentum here. The wildcard is (2) WONDERFUL K. He ran 2nd and 5th in his first two starts before parting company with his jockey leaving the gate on what was to be his third attempt last month, completing the course himself. He has drawn well here and does seem to have ability.

Selections(7) Global Yeongung (2) Wonderful K (9) Nonstop Gisang (3) One Ji
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(12) RAON THE POWER won his first two in fine style before running 2nd to Top Of Korea on his first try at this class on March 20th. He has drawn wide here but so too have his main rivals – and he is favoured to get back to winning ways today. (11) ACE DAY is half-brother to the excellent Today. He won on debut at this distance and comes in after a strong 2nd place over 1400M to Baby Line when he had to overcome the widest draw to get to the lead. He should be the primary danger. (13) WONDERFUL KING remains a maiden after seven attempts but he has four to-three finishes and beat no fewer than four of his rivals here on his way to 2nd place at class and distance last start. He looks good for at least another place finish today. (5) FINAL PARTY and (4) CHOEGANG CUPID are others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(12) Raon The Power (11) Ace Day (13) Wonderful King (4) Choegang Cupid
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) BEOLMAL DAEJANG is the one to beat here. He’s got progressively closer across his three starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish last start over 1300M. He ran on strong with an extra half-furlong to play with today, can make his breakthrough. (1) SAEMYEONG HAETSAL and (5) WONDERFUL JOY have already found their way into the winner’s circle, both of them in their respective latest starts. The latter’s came at this distance and both can go close again today. (10) CUPID KOREA comes in off a career-best 2nd place last start. He should be on pace here and has claims on a place again. (4) LAST BOSS ran 4th last tine at this distance and comes down 3.5kg in the weights today with an apprentice on board, which should put him into at least the minor money reckoning.

Selections(3) Beolmal Daejang (1) Saemyeong Haetsal (5) Wonderful Joy (4) Last Boss
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 14

Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 35 Million

Two winning streaks are on the line here. (7) MACH TITAN will be the favourite to keep his intact. He has made all the running in his last three starts, winning all of them well, most recently at class and distance. He gets the better of the draw here and could well lead all the way again. (11) GODDESS MOON has won four in a row. She steps up to the mile for the first time but she is a two-time winner at 1400M, both times leading all the way. She has a 4kg weight advantage over her rival here and can make it count but she will be up against it in terms of their respective draws. As good as the favourites are, it’s not a two-horse race. (1) COPY THAT has only been outside the top-two on one occasion in eight starts so far. He’s won at this level over 1400M and while he started slowly from a wide draw last time out, still rallied for 2nd. He’ll go close again. (2) LEGACY beat plenty of these when 3rd behind the very good pair of Choegang Ssonsal and Jera a month ago and has minor money claims again. (10) TOP FIRE has a fast time at this distance to his name and can’t be ruled out either.

Selections(7) Mach Titan (11) Goddess Moon (2) Legacy (1) Copy That
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start1, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(11) YAHO GOLDEN CAT enters off a good 2nd place on March 14th at class and distance. That continued a run of consistent form and he looks well-positioned here to return to the winner’s circle, likely looking to lead. Another very consistent type is (3) MYEONGJIN DAY. He is yet to finish any worse than 4th in four attempts and steps back in trip after a solid 4th place over 1700M just two weeks ago. That was a good race and he also has a swift 2nd at this distance to his name. (4) ALCHAN NURI was 7th behind Yaho Golden Cat last start but the time before ran 3rd at class and distance in a good time. He can be considered a place chance here. (5) WANY K and (9) GOLDILOCKS are among several others in the hunt for the minor money in what looks a competitive affair.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 11)

Sunday’s racing is behind closed doors at Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00). Betting outlets on Jeju Island as well as in Daegu and Gwangju will be open but all others are closed. Here are the previews:

Gaon Champ probably won’t be winning, but he will be running in Seoul’s Sunday feature

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(4) RUNNING KING may start as favourite here. He took a bump early last start on February 28th before racing keenly behind the leaders to be still running on strongly at the line. The previous time out he led for a strong 2nd and will be in the finish here. (3) NEW HOPE was 3rd in that February 28th race, marking a significant uptick in form and she can maintain that momentum today. The main danger though is set to be (1) DAECHEON EOLJJANG. He has run some good times over this distance and drops back after a decent showing over the 1300M last time. He has a nice draw on the inside which Johan Victoire can use to put him right in the mix here. (11) RAON GARAM has shown decent speed in both her races so far. That suggests the draw won’t be too much of a problem and she can be a factor. (8) ILGYEOK PILSAL was well back behind New Hope and Running King last start but we will disregard that and look back to his 2nd place on debut. Consider him for the exotics.

Selections(1) Daecheon Eoljang (4) Running King (3) New Hope (11) Raon Garam
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(12) K N LIGHT is the favourite and the pick here after his win at the distance back on January 15th. He stepped up to 1300M on his return and worked hard to be on the lead from the widest gate but just seemed to tire in the closing stages, ending up in 4th. Despite another wide draw, back at 1200M he is the one to beat. (1) MAD BLADE ran 2nd to K N Light in January before weakening late over 1400M on his return to action a month ago. Just as with the favourite, being back to 1200M is in his favour. (5) HAECHAN continues the pattern of those dropping back in trip and into contention. Although some time ago now, there was plenty of merit in his last crack at this distance and he should be competitive here. (9) STAR RUSH is yet to place but has shown ability. He was wide early last time before battling on well and could sneak some money today.

Selections(12) K N Light (5) Haechan (1) Mad Blade (9) Star Rush
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here. (12) GOLDEN BADGE is the pick here after a good 2nd at this trip in a nice time four weeks ago. She’s been reasonably consistent across here seven starts to date and this looks to be the race she’s been waiting for to pick up a win. (6) ROAD ROSE can have a line drawn through her latest effort when wide from an unhelpful draw. Her previous class and distance form is good and she should be on pace today with claims to go close. (1) JILPUNG BAEKGWANG was very wide last start but still battled on for a midfield finish. Moon Se Young climbs aboard today and she can improve. (9) CHEONGDAM TANK and (10) HAPPY MONTH are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(12) Golden Badge (6) Road Rose (1) Jilpung Baekgwang (9) Cheongdam Tank
Next Best10, 13
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) SPEED MATCH looks ready to win here. While his previous two goes around this trip weren’t ideal, he was a good 2nd back at 1000M last start, running on well and looks ready for another crack. He faces modest opposition here and can come out on top. (8) ADELE CROWN was exactly fast when 4th on debut a month ago but hinted at enough ability to suggest progression is on the cards and he can get close here. (2) SIMON TOP GUN has shown progress across four starts so far and is another who should be aiming to get in the places for the first time today. (11) JANGSAN MANGCHI has failed to build on an encouraging debut but still has the fastest time among any of these who have tackled the distance before.

Selections(3) Speed Match (11) Jangsan Mangchi (8) Adele Crown (2) Simon Top Gun
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

Fillies (and two mares) here. (4) RAON PINK was a class 6 winner on debut and has followed up with two solid performances at this class, running on from midfield both times. She can settle handy here and run on strong. (7) DAUL QUEEN is the one set to challenge her for favourite status. She too was winner on debut and was a fair 2nd on her first try at this class. She never really looked like winning that day but should be in the finish today. (11) CHEONGDAM WICKED continues to enter the calculations based on the sub-one-minute five-furlongs she achieved back last November. She’s not pulled up trees since but hasn’t been too far away. (10) CAREER HIGH is worth some thought. She didn’t settle especially well last time out but the run had merit. (12) LUCKY SMILE is another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Raon Pink (7) Daul Queen (10) Career High (11) Cheongdam Wicked
Next Best12, 13
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(7) MENI GLORY has just come up short in both his starts to date, finishing runner-up at 1000M and 1400M. He was a beaten favourite last start but is drawn nicely enough to get the early advantage here and will be a short-price to make it third time lucky. This isn’t an easy race though. (13) AFLEET TAPIT improved last time out at start number two and while it was a slow race, he looks set to be competitive. (14) WONDER RUNNER has been consistent across four outings so far. The wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and he surely finds the places again. (6) STAR OF KING has been knocking on the door of the minor money in recent outings and could sneak a prize here. There is one solitary debut-maker but it is a notable one. (2) WILD INDIE is out of Wild Dixie Gal, dam of multiple Korean Stakes winners Beolmaui Kkum and Kkakjaengi and who also produced Dixie Again, winner of six from nine so far. By President’s Cup and Grand Prix winner Indie Band, Wild Indie trialed up nicely in March (after an unconvincing qualification a month earlier) and he will be backed.  

Selections(7) Meni Glory (14) Wonder Runner (2) Wild Indie (13) Afleet Tapit
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8
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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 10)

Current social-distancing levels have been maintained so betting outlets on Jeju Island and in the cities of Daegu and Gwangju can remain open this weekend. They will be betting on the behind-closed-doors meetings that will take place on both days at Seoul and Busan. On Saturday there are 8 races at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:30 to 16:50. Here are the previews:

Empty stands again at Seoul.

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only to get things started. There is one previous winner in the field in the shape of (8) LOVE ARCH. Her win came on debut over 1000M in February and while it was in a slow time, she went from almost last to first in the final furlong. The additional trip should suit and a repeat isn’t impossible. (1) LEGEND STAR has run 3rd in both her starts so far at 1000M and at this distance. Drawn nicely on the inside she should be handy and run on strong here with solid claims. She will be favourite. (5) GABO SARANGHAE has been knocking at the door of the places. She’s finished in the top five on six of seven starts and should be aiming to place here. (9) ELITE POWER has by some margin the fastest time of any of these at the distance and while her latest two efforts have been indifferent, she should be given a chance here.

Selections(8) Love Arch (1) Legend Star (5) Gabo Saranghae (9) Elite Power
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

There is one previous winner in the field. That’s (3) EAST BELLE who was successful at this trip two starts back. She weakened a little for 6th when stepped up to 1400M on her return in February but back down to her winning distance should be much closer today. (1) SECOND WIND returned from six months out to run 3rd over this distance at the end of February, swooping home late from off the pace. She should have come on for the run and can be a danger here. (2) CHOEGANG ILSE and (13) WIND HARPOON both look to have potential to improve and have at least placing claims. The one they all need to beat though is one of the six first-time starters. (5) SUCCESS MACHO is a three-year-old gelding by Macho Uno, who was imported in-utero. He looked extremely competent when holding his own in a fast trial with experienced horses and enters here as favourite. From a good draw with a top jockey on, he can lead gate to wire.

Selections(5) Success Macho (3) East Belle (1) Second Wind (2) Choegang Ilse
Next Best13, 14
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 13

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(13) DONGJIN CHOEGANG was a front-running winner over this distance on debut on March 7th, scoring by almost three-lengths. Despite today’s wide draw, she should be able to make her way to the front again and should have too much. (5) GEUMA MAJESTY ran 3rd in that same race, continuing an uptick in form that began with a 4th place in January. He can build on that momentum today from a better draw than last time and could run the favourite close. Jockey Ueda Masashi picked up a welcome winner last weekend and he has a decent shout here with (1) P.K. ROAD. The Upstart filly has been knocking on the door in each of her three outings to date and looks nicely in with placing claims here. (2) KOREA GIJEOK and (7) IMUGI are others with potential to improve.

Selections(13) Dongjin Choegang (5) Geuma Majesty (1) P.K. Road (2) Korea Gijeok
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start6, 8, 10, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Just fillies (and one mare) here and it’s a tricky puzzle to solve. (2) DREAM DANCER and (9) HORAENGI look set to dispute favourite status as both enter with consistent recent form. Horaengi beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place last time out and also has a 3rd at this distance to his name. Dream Dancer meanwhile steps up in trip after running on doggedly for 3rd over 1200M last time out. “Dogged” should be enough to see both close here. (6) FASHION BLADE was promising enough on debut when 5th behind Horaengi at 1200M. She made good ground from a long way back and will be expected to improve today. We’ll take a chance though on another one racing for just the second time, (13) WONDERFUL LADY. She was 5th over 1000M on debut but the step up in trip may suit and the jockey booking catches the eye.

Selections(13) Wonderful Lady (9) Horaengi (2) Dream Dancer (6) Fashion Blade
Next Best14, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) NAMSAN SIDAE looks set to be a warm favourite here. The Cowboy Cal colt is out of a Korean Oaks winner and has a 3rd and a 2nd from his two starts so far, running on strong on both occasions. The slight step up in trip should suit and he is the one to beat here. Emerging from the opposite end of the fate will be (13) EOSEOWA. He comes in off back to back 3rd place finishes, the latter of which was at this distance and if Ham Wa-sik can find a handy position, he can be a threat again. (10) JEONGMUN POKJU was a somewhat unexpected winner at 1400M on March 7th. He needs to be given more respect today and while a repeat is unlikely, he looks a placing line. (4) TEUKGEUP YEOWANG and (12) SINDAERO are others who can be competitive.

Selections(1) Namsan Sidae (13) Eoseowa (10) Jeongmun Pokju (4) Teukgeup Yeowang
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start7, 8, 10, 13

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies and a couple of mares only here. (1) MINYEOBONG has only once finished out of the top five and looks ready to score again here. She got her solitary win three starts back over this distance and followed up with a 2nd and a 3rd in solid, if unspectacular times. From the inside gate, she is likely to be sitting just behind the leaders and should prove too strong at the business end of the race. (14) TOP OF THE GIRL produced an uptick in form to run 2nd in a similar class and distance race in March 6th. She warrants respect here although the likes of (2) ACEUI GIPPEUM and (13) TOP LUCKY, who finished behind her that day, both look capable of overturning that form. (5) ANGEL WIND, who has been beaten by Minyeobong in both her two most recent starts, is another with placing chances.

Selections(1) Minyeobong (13) Top Lucky (5) Angel Wind (2) Aceui Gippeum
Next Best14, 6
Fast Start5, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

The first division of this class 5 handicap sees (1) BLACK SILVER as a likely warm favourite. Her one win so far came at this distance in a fast time and she has a close at hand 3rd and 2nd in two starts since. From the inside gate, she is likely to be on pace from the start and should win. (6) GREAT KHAN and (7) GRAND CASTLE come in with almost identical form to one another. Both are also likely to be competing for the early speed and should be involved in the finish. (2) AROMA dropped off a cliff in the closing stages over 1300M last start but should be better back in trip today. (3) M J BEST has been a touch inconsistent across his three starts so far but has a bit of speed about him and looks a placing line here.

Selections(1) Black Silver (7) Grand Castle (6) Great Khan (2) Aroma
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(9) PINEUI KKUM is set to be hot favourite for this one. He was a bit of a late developer, not getting his maiden win until start number ten but he has been in fine form since. He comes in having recorded the fastest time of any of these over a mile when 3rd with a couple of his rivals here behind him, on March 13th. He likes to come from off the pace and should be too strong today. (8) GEUMA GOOD POINT got his maiden win at this distance last start. He is accordingly up in class today but on the strength of that showing should be competitive here. (10) SKY WIN was on pace at class and distance last time out and while he only managed 4th, looks set to be on pace again and has placing claims. (1) MAGIC HORSE and (4) TRIPLE MAGIC are other sin the hunt for some minor money.

Selections(9) Pineui Kkum (8) Geuma Good Point (10) Sky Win (1) Magic Horse
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10
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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (April 4)

Blue Chipper was 5th on his return to racing after more than a year out. The 2019 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile 3rd place-getter is in action again at Busan on Sunday tackling 1400M in the feature race on the south coast. There are 6 races at Busan from 12:05 to 17:00 and 10 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Both meetings will be held behind closed doors. Here are the previews:

Blue Chipper goes at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(9) MORNING HILL was an impressive winner first up on February 28th making all in a fast time. He stretches out to 1200M today but if he has come on at all from that performance, he will take some beating here. The main danger is set to be a first-time starter. (4) YES I CAN trialed well, running on strong for 2nd place in his heat in a competitive time. The 1200M should suit and he can go well. (11) BORAQUEEN has fair form over her three outings to date. She led last time before battling on for 5th and is likely to improve off that run. (10) MODERN GOLD drifted well back in the field on his first start but got himself together to come home quite well and could sneak into a place. (2) YEONGWANUI HAENGJIN hasn’t pulled up many trees in two starts so far but previously showed some speed in a trial and the engagement of a top jockey today suggests improvement is expected.

Selections(9) Morning Hill (4) Yes I Can (11) Boraqueen (10) Modern Gold
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

There’s not a whole lot of exposed form here so (7) TEUKGWON might be the one to go for. He’s only raced twice and was a good 4th on debut before being on pace on his first attempt at 1200M back in January and battling on for 5th. He’s had a couple of months off since and should be right in the thick of things today. (3) SINUI ADEUL was in a handy position on his latest start before being hampered and losing ground. Disregard that and instead go on his two 4th places prior to that and he comes into contention. Also in contention is (4) THUNDER K. He has hinted at some ability and races for the first time since November having trialed well. The apprentice claim and the good draw put him in the calculations. (8) ROSEDAY MARINE is also in the hunt as is solitary debut-maker (9) BEOWULF.

Selections(7) Teukgwon (3) Sinui Adeul (4) Thunder K (8) Roseday Marine
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here and there are two previous winners among them. (9) YULONG STAR was a good winner two starts back at 1200M before running a good 4th last start when worked hard to get on the pace before battling on gamely. An apprentice claim takes 3kg off his back and puts him right in the mix. (8) JOYFUL K came home 5th in the same race having been quite wide before making good ground late. She won at 1200M last November and is at least worthy of a place line today. The one they both need to beat is (2) SARYEONI QUEEN. She recorded a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts last summer and while she hasn’t raced since August, she trialed adequately enough in February and has every chance first-up from a great draw to lead. (3) MISS ELITE and (7) NONGBON RAK are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Saryeoni Queen (9) Yulong Star (8) Joyful K (3) Miss Elite
Next Best7
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies get the Busan card underway and there’s going to be a warm favourite. (3) FLAT BABE came close to making all on debut over 1400M back in January, just getting overhauled in the closing stages by Looking Cat. Back in trip today but well drawn and with Perovic remaining aboard, she looks hard to beat. Draw a line through the latest effort of (4) HAEUNDAE BADA. She’s been back to trial since and her previous efforts suggest she should be aiming to place here. Similarly, (6) CHONGMA HWANGHU and (7) ENOUGH both hinted at ability on debut to the extent that we can overlook their respective latest showings and give them another chance here. There are five first-time starters and (1) MAGIC HILL and (11) AREUMDAUN GAMDONG both looked competent enough in trials.

Selections(3) Flat Babe (4) Haeundae Bada (1) Magic Hill (6) Cheonhma Hwanghu
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 14

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) ULTRA KING come sin off a good 3rd place at start number four when after showing good speed, he led a similar field for a time and fought on well. From the inside gate he should get an easier run today and is the one to beat. (3) BRAVO MAY came home in 4th place in that races continuing his record of always being there or thereabouts. That should be maintained today although once more he is likely to find one or two too quick. (4) CURRERECUS has the form to be in the finish. He beat three of these on his way to 2nd place in a good time over 1400M last start and with a good draw today, he is worth considering. (6) OFFICER COMMANDING was 5th but close to the winner last start in a good time at the distance. She also has a 2nd over 1300M and is firmly in today’s frame. (8) ROYAL YEONGGWANG the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Ultra King (4) Currerecus (3) Bravo May (6) Officer Commanding
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(11) WILD BLUE is the one to beat here. He has two 2nd place finishes and a 4th from his three outings so far, running on strong in each. He steps up slightly in trip which should be to his benefit and if Perovic can find a handy spot for him, he should be too strong. (14) GREAT GO remains winless but has been consistent across her eight outings to date. She led for much of the way around last start before running 2nd over 1400M and while the widest gate isn’t ideal, she can overcome it to go close. (5) PICTURE JASPER ran a good 3rd on debut, running on strong over 1000M and looks poised to build on that today. (9) FIRST WIND is the only prior winner in the field and while his latest two have been a touch disappointing, he shouldn’t be overlooked. (13) KING BID another in the hunt.

Selections(11) Wild Blue (5) Picture Jasper (14) Great Go (9) First Wind
Next Best13, 12
Fast Start3, 9, 11, 13

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(1) CATCH CHARM is a winner of two from two so far and is yet to see the rear of another horse at any time in her racing career. She is up in class here but she has won at this distance already and the inside barrier and Moon Se Young up again make her hard to beat. (2) STAR WARS is similarly up in class here, in his case following a win and two runner-up finishes. He comes down in the weights as well which should help his placing claims. Also with significant claims, at least on a place is (7) SEO E BEONJJEOK. He has won at this distance and was a close 2nd last start when handy but wide. She’s not been worse than 5th in her four outings and she should at least maintain that record. (4) GIVEN RUNNER and (9) SUN OF STORM are others with solid placing claims.

Selections(1) Catch Charm (2) Star Wars (7) Seo E Beonjjeok (9) Sun Of Storm
Next Best4, 13
Fast Start1, 6, 12, 14

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(9) DUMUSAN was a last start winner, breaking through at start number five. His form prior to that had only been fair but fair is enough to go on top in this modest contest. He’s generally slow away but has a nice turn of foot and so long as he doesn’t give them too much of a head start, should have too much. (11) WONDERFUL SECRET ran 4th behind Dumusan last start, sticking to task well. He’ll try to get to the front here and should still be around at the business end of the race. (7) CHEONGDAM DRIVE has a couple of 3rd place finishes to his name and that’s enough to put him in the placing frame again today with the likes of (5) DIVINE QUEEN and (6) BABEL STAR also capable of picking up a minor cheque.

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