Busan

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 18)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on friday with 11 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

RH7_2448

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

Juvenile maidens to kick things off and only one of the twelve has raced before. That’s (1) DAEMANGUI GIL, who has actually appeared twice, improving significantly in the second of them, which was a valuable juvenile race (Gold Circle Trophy) over 1200M. Back down in trip here and his experience may come through. (2) TOP OF CHALLENGER caught the eye in a fast trial back in August and is perhaps the pick of the first-time starters although (5) FANTASTIC WINNER looked good coming from off the pace to win a second trial at the end of September ahead of some established horses and can be taken seriously too. (7) TOP BEST and (11) BURNING STAR also ran in some competitive times and look likely to go well first up, the latter partnered by former Busan champion jockey Kim Young Geun, who is in town for Sunday’s Governor’s Cup. As ever, keep an eye on the market.

Selections (1) Daemangui Gil (2) Top Of Challenger (5) Fantastic Winner (7) Top Best
Next Best 11, 9
Fast Start 1, 2, 4

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(7) WORLD TODAY is a “full” brother of World Day, a winner of nine of twelve starts so far. He looked competent enough when trialling two weeks ago and this isn’t the most intimidating. The biggest danger may be (8) BEYOND. He returned from six months off on September 20th only for his saddle to slip and his jockey to fall off. He had been relatively well-fancied in that race due to an impressive trial and he surely will again here. (1) BORYEONG JILJU drops back in trip after a solid 4th over 1300M last start and should be in contention to build on that today. (5) RAINBOW PARK and (12) MYEONGGA DAERO are others in the hunt.

Selections (7) World Today (8) Beyond (1) Boryeong Jilju (5) Rainbow Park
Next Best 12, 2
Fast Start 2, 5, 7, 8

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(11) HANSEN FLASHY found himself a little overmatched facing the current top juveniles in a valuable race at the end of August but he finds himself in much shallower waters today and should be winning. (7) SUPER GREAT is the only one of these to have a 2nd place to his name and that in itself marks him as a major contender up against this lot. (1) NEPTUNE is a thirty-four race maiden but ran a solid 3rd ahead of a couple of these two weeks ago and should beat a few again. (6) DREAM CHASER hasn’t beaten many across three starts so far but his times have been creditable, and he has been facing much better opposition than this. (8) I AM CHAMPION too can beat a few.

Selections (11) Hansen Flashy (7) Super Great (6) Dream Chaser (1) Neptune
Next Best 8, 10
Fast Start 6, 9, 11

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

(9) BLUE POWER comes in having run a decent 4th in the Gold Circle Trophy at the end of last month, and while he was some way behind the winner, it was a reasonable performance. He already has a 3rd place to his name at this distance and could be the ne to beat here. (4) PINEUI KKUM raced very greenly when 6th on debut last month to the extent that he was sent back to trial. He duly won that trial in a fast time and goes straight into contention here. (2) ANGEL KING STAR and (3) MAJOR GUY came home 3rd and 4th with just a head between them when they raced over this distance on September 27th and both have placing claims. (11) SANBANG ANY DAY was 3rd over 1000M last start and steps back up in trip for the first time since his debut.

Selections (9) Blue Power (4) Pineui Kkum (2) Angel King Star (3) Major Guy
Next Best 11, 1
Fast Start 2, 4, 6, 11

Race 5: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(1) ALPHA RUNNER enters with recent form reading well and while it’s ten starts since his last win, he looks nicely in here. 2nd last time out over 1200M, he was 4th at this class and distance at the end of August and can come from off the pace with a late run. (10) B.K. GAMBOL upset the highly thought-of Mr. Afleet, making all and just holding on in a fast time on a wet track at class and distance on September 29th and while he carries an additional 3kg here and will need to make his way to the front from a wide draw, he warrants respect. (5) WHITE POINT beat a couple of these in his way to an unexpected 2nd a month ago, his first try at this distance. He can go well again although (2) MUJEOK VETERAN, who was behind him that day, could overturn the form. (9) IGGYDA had a poor day at the office over a mile last time but is better than that and can improve today.

Selections (1) Alpha Runner (10) B.K. Gambol (5) White Point (2) Mujeok Veteran
Next Best 9, 4
Fast Start 2, 3, 9, 10

Race 6: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) FINAL DREAM ran 3rd on her first try at this class over 1200M on September 20th. She (more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 13)

Racing on Sunday is at Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:40 to 17:05) . Previews for Seoul follow with Busan selections underneath:

Spring Back Korea Sprint

Spring Back, seen here at the Korea Sprint, takes on the unfamiliar distance of 1800M todau (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA) 

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

Juvenile maidens to kick things off with just three of the twelve having raced before and it’s two of those who are likely to be at the top of the market. (4) RAON TAP MAN ran a very good 2nd on debut on September 8th. His stable is in good form and he’ll be well-fancied here. So will (5) HAECHAN, who despite coming 4th in his debut, was closer to the winner than Raon Tap Man and ran a faster time. Both will be on pace from the start and both are strong contenders. Among the debut-makers, (2) CHODONG ROCKET was the most impressive in trials, running a competent 2nd in a heat back in late August. (9) MEOTJIN SEUNGBU and (10) WILD WOODS also caught the eye when qualifying.

Selections (5) Haechan (4) Raon Tap Man (2) Chodong Rocket (9) Meotjin Seungbu
Next Best 10, 3
Fast Start 4, 5, 6, 10

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

Maiden fillies. (9) STORM FORCE has been knocking on the door throughout her five starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over 1000M in august. She’s had nine weeks off since then and looks nicely in to make the breakthrough here. She’ll be hot favourite. (11) GI RO ran on nicely over 1000M last night and can have some confidence coming back up to 1300M today while (8) BAEK HAK may also improve for the slight increase in trip. (1) SINUI CHUKBOK and (7) FAMILY HOPE are others with scope to improve in what, the favourite aside, is not a strong race.

Selections (9) Storm Force (11) Gi Ro (8) Baek Hak (1) Sinui Chukbok
Next Best 7, 5
Fast Start 1, 6, 8, 9

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

More maidens. (1) HIT THE PACE returned from seven months off to run 4th in what was admittedly a weak race on September 1st. He’ll have needed that though and should come on for it today and he has winning chances here. (2) J.S. POWER has hinted at ability over three outings so far, all of them at 1000M. He’s run through the line pleasingly enough each time and could appreciate the additional trip here. (8) TOUR DIA and (10) KHAN ACE are the only two in the field to have 2nd place finishes to their names and both can aim to place here. (5) COLORS DE LAGO best of the rest.

Selections (1) Hit The Pace (2) J.S. Power (8) Tour Dia (10) Khan Ace
Next Best 5, 12
Fast Start 2, 9, 10, 11

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

(3) LOVE RACE got her maiden win in March and was then off for four months. Since returning, she’s run three times with a 3rd and a pair of 4ths. She’s nicely drawn to get to the lead here and she could well win. (2) MAPAEBONG comes in off back to back 3rd place finishes, both of them at class and distance and in arguably slightly tougher company than this so he should be firmly in contention. (8) ROYAL SMARTY has three 3rd places since being promoted to this level and 3rd should be a minimum requirement here. (6) HANEUL ACE and (7) TAEPUNG EYES look best of the rest.

Selections (3) Love Race (8) Royal Smarty (2) Mapaebong (6) Haneul Ace
Next Best 7, 10
Fast Start 3, 5

Race 5: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Imported maidens here with just three of them having raced before. All three are likely to be towards the upper end of the betting market with (4) J.S. GUNJU the likely favourite having run 4th on debut three weeks ago, coming from well off the pace after a shaky start. Expect him to be ridden much closer much earlier today. (2) OKRYONG was well back in the same race but there was nothing wrong with his time and he can improve today. (6) MOVIECUS is the only one to have raced twice and he’s done well, registering a 2nd and a 3rd and looks good for at least another in the money finish today. It therefore won’t be easy for the newcomers although Daredevil colt (1) ECHO BILL and Street Boss filly (7) THANK YOU BOSS both looked competent enough in trials.

Selections (4) J.S. Gunju (6) Moviecus (1) Echo Bill (7) Thank You Boss
Next Best 2, 3
Fast Start 4, 6, 7

Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) MUDO returned from five months off at the end of August to resume normal service of running 2nd, something he’s now done in three of five starts. He was only beaten less (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 11)

The weekend’s racing gets underway on Friday at Busan with 11 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan World Sun

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

Juvenile maiden with all but one racing for the very first time. That one, (7) JEONSEOULUI PUNCH didn’t make much impact on debut last month so it’s the first-timers who will be preferred. A few of them look quite handy. (1) TOUCH STAR MAN is the second foal out of Korean Oaks winner Useung Touch. The first, Power Touch, is a winner of three from eight so far and Touch Star Man trialled up nicely in September. (6) MAN OF THE WORLD trialled up slightly better and looks set to be favourite. He’s a half-brother to Brig, a winner of nine races and who is still going round as a nine-year-old now. (2) YEONGSEONG VICTORY and (3) GRAND YEOWANG are others who looked good when trialling up and who can go well first-up.

Selections (1) Touch Star Man (6) Man Of The World (3) Grand Yeowang (2) Yeongseong Victory
Next Best 7, 5
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 6

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

More juvenile maidens, this time with four of them having raced before. All four have shown a bit of ability. (2) CENTUM BEONGAE was an improved 4th on his second start at the beginning of last month. He’s drawn nicely to be on pace here and should improve again. (6) JEONSEOLUI BULKKOT and (7) FUTURE KING both did nothing wrong on their respective debuts and have firm foundations to build on here while (8) YEONGWON DYNAMO was well back on his second racecourse appearance in August but had previously run 3rd on debut and comes in here after ten weeks off with scope to go better. The one they will all need to beat, however, is a first-time starter. (3) MIRACLE DREAMING looked very sharp in two trials and if he brings that form to the races, could be hard to beat.

Selections (3) Miracle Dreaming (2) Centum Beongae (6) Jeonseolui Bulkkot (7) Future King
Next Best 8, 5
Fast Start 2, 3, 7

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) POWER WONDERFUL ran 3rd when sent off at long-odds on what was his second start on September 20th. He beat a couple of these in the process and if he runs similarly today, will take some beating. (8) YEONGSEONG BRAVO was 6th in that race, just under two-lengths in arrears, and could prove to be the biggest danger here, likely coming from off the pace. (6) TWO TWO WAY has shown ability in the past and can benefit from the eight weeks she’s had since her latest run. (11) MASEONG KWAEGEOL has shown slight but noticeable improvement over three outings so far and can continue it here.

Selections (2) Power Wonderful (8) Yeongseong Bravo (6) Two Two Way (11) Maseong Kwaegeol
Next Best 3, 5
Fast Start 2, 3, 6, 9

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

(3) TWO TWO FAIRY beat two of these on her way to a good 2nd place over this distance in a similar all-filly race to this three weeks ago. She led for parts of that race and today can be leading when it counts. (5) CHEONNYEONUIHEUIMA ran 4th in that race and while she was a full nine-lengths behind Two Two Fairy. She may not overturn that form here but can get closer. (1) ARA MYUNGMA has a 2nd place to her name and comes in following 5th in a stronger race than this. That was back in July and the three months off may be to her benefit. (8) BARAMUI YEOSIN steps up in trip for the first time and could improve while of the two first-time starters, Thomas Gillespie’s (2) FASHION KEY looks the more likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections (3) Two Two Fairy (5) Cheonnyeonuiheuima (2) Fashion Key (1) Ara Myungma
Next Best 8, 4
Fast Start 7, 8

Race 5: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(3) WILD GERANIUM returned from five months out to run 4th at this distance on September 20th, beating a couple of these along the way. It took her a while to get going that day, but she should have come on for the run and can win here. (6) AFLEET YOUNG has run through the line well in both his two outings so far. Both times he’s been a long way back though so the additional furlong and a half today may well suit. (7) SAEROUN SEUNGJA raced twice without distinction around the turn of the year but looked much better when brought back last month. He too tries the distance for the first time and can benefit for it. (5) KING DOMBO and (8) TWO TWO DAY are others who should be aiming for improvement.

Selections (3) Wild Geranium (6) Afleet Young (7) Saeroun Seungja (5) King Dombo
Next Best 8, 1
Fast Start 7, 8

Race 6: Class 2 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 90 Million

After all those maidens suddenly a class 2 jumps out at us. (12) CAPTAIN GUY is up in class following a nine-length score over this distance on September 20th. He was 15/1 that day and it was a big uptick in form but he it was a really good performance in a fast time and a repeat can’t be ruled out. (6) YEONGGWANGUI CHAMP comes in having won at class and distance on June 30th, with two of these behind him. He’s been off since and he (more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 29)

Two big juvenile races headline Seoul and Busan on Sunday. Both will have strong favourites with Choegang Team looking hard to beat in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup at Seoul while Save The World is set to start at a short price in the Gold Circle Trophy at Busan. We also get to see several of Seoul’s top three-year-olds take each other on as Derby Winner and Runner-up Wonderful Fly and Myeongpum Chukje are joined by Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup winner Clear Geom as well as Thunder Blade and Rapidocus over 1800M in race 11.

There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 plus 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:05. Here are the Seoul previews with Busan Selections below:

Wonderful Fly Derby KRA

Derby winner Wonderful Fly races on Sunday (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

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

Filly-only maiden to kick things off and what it perhaps lacks in quality, it makes up for in competitiveness. Five of them race for the first time and among these first-timers, (2) CHOEGANGMA was a lively looking trial winner in August and from an inside draw could potentially get to the front and lead all the way. Accordingly, she’s the slight pick. (4) LUCKY SMILE ran a good 3rd on debut at the beginning of this month, coming from off the pace and running on well and she can match or better that today while (6) ELITE LADY has a 2nd and a 4th in two starts so far, the latter in a valuable juvenile race over 1200M which she led until the closing stages. She’ll join Choegangma on pace and looks a real danger. (3) PEACE OF RULES and another debut-maker, (9) NUNBUSIN HANSEN, look best of the rest.

Selections (2) Choegangma (6) Elite Lady (4) Lucky Smile (9) Nunbusin Hansen
Next Best 3, 12
Fast Start 2, 3, 6, 9

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(10) SYDNEY MONEY came from well off the pace to run a good 3rd in a slightly better race than this on August 10th. He’s shown progress in three starts since returning from a lengthy absence and he could make the breakthrough today. (1) RUFFIAN PARK ran promisingly enough for 4th on debut at the end of July and should have come on for the run and a nine-week layoff. He’ll be on pace early. (3) PUNCH POWER did nothing wrong on his first start four weeks ago and will be expected to improve on the 5th he scored that day. (7) DREAM CHAT debuted in 3rd place all the way back in March. She’s had her setbacks since but looked competent enough in a recent trial. (12) DONGSEO JEPAE was a much improved 2nd last time and is another with placing claims.

Selections (10) Sydney Money (1) Ruffian Park (3) Punch Power (7) Dream Chat
Next Best 12, 9
Fast Start 1, 4, 8, 9

Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) RAON BEST MAN is up in class following an eye-catching seven-length win over 1000M on August 31st. He made all that day and while he is up in distance for the first time as well, he has every chance of repeating. (10) KING OF RULES enters off the back of consecutive runner-up finishes and should be going close again while (11) HWARYONG has a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two and the step up in trip today should suit well. (4) BISAYEON and (9) GEUMBIT YEOLJEONG, the latter just a neck behind King Of Rules last start and likely to challenging for the early lead here, are others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections (3) Raon Best Man (10) King Of Rules (11) Hwaryong (4) Bisayeon
Next Best 9, 5
Fast Start 3, 4, 9

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

(12) RAON TOUGH MAN was a good winner in a fast time on debut on August 11th He only won by a neck but he and the runner-up were a full eight-lengths clear of the rest of the field and while he steps up in both class and distance today – and is drawn in the car park – he can make it two out of two. (4) ROYAL GHOST remains a maiden but comes in having run a very good 2nd on her first try at this class last time out. That was at 1000M, but she’s run well at this distance as well and should go close. (11) DAEHAN CHAMP and (8) IL MARE were both a touch disappointing when well down the field in an admittedly stronger race then this last month. Both should go better today. (9) STAR LIST has been holding her own in useful company lately and can aim for some minor prize money.

Selections (12) Roan Tough Man (4) Royal Ghost (8) Il Mare (11) Daehan Champ
Next Best 9, 6
Fast Start 4, 8, 12

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) CITY SONGAM beat a couple of these on his way to 2nd place over 1300M on August 31st. His style across four starts so far has been to come from well off the pace so it’ tempting to suggest that the additional trip – his first time around two turns – should suit perfectly. (10) CHOEGANG SINGI provides French trainer Tony Castanheira with his first Korean runner and it could be a good one. He was just beaten half a length last start six weeks ago and is another who should appreciate a bit of distance. (6) FASTEST already has a 3rd place at this distance to his name and should be aiming to at least repeat. (1) CHEONNYEONUI GODO and (4) MACH SEUNGCHEON are others in the frame.

Selections (2) City Songam (10) Choegang Singi (6) Fastest (1) Cheonnyeonui Godo
Next Best 4, 8
Fast Start 1, 3, 6

Race 6: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(1) DAEGUN POWER won back to back races in June and July to get rapidly promoted to this level and then ran a creditable 3rd on his first try at it on August 25th. From the inside gate, he should be on speed from the start and he can return to the winner’s circle here. (3) GAON FORCE ran in the first two legs of this year’s Korean Triple Crown, and while he finished well back both times, he has ability. His latest run saw him come rom off the pace to run 4th over 1200M last month and he should better that today. (2) SUN OF THUNDER was a class and distance winner last start and while he carries more weight today in what is a tougher race, he warrants respect. (11) P.K. JEONSA is up in class following back to back wins and should be competitive while (12) STRONG VULTURE is another who is very capable on his day.

Selections (1) Daegun Power (3) Gaon Force (11) P.K. Jeonsa (12) Strong Vulture
Next Best 2, 10
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 11

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

Another competitive race. (4) SKY DOLPUNG was a class and distance winner on August 11th, coming from off the pace to win by a neck. That was the culmination of a run of good form and he’ll be in the hunt again. He carries 3.5kg more today though and chances are that (6) DADDY GLORY, a couple of lengths back in 3rd that day, will overturn the form. She’s a winner of three from nine and looks to have potential for more. She can sit behind the early speed and be too strong late on. (9) MIREU STORM has beaten plenty of these on his way to back to back runner-up finishes at class and distance and should (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 27)

No typhoons looming this weekend and all is set fair for a fine three days of racing. Things kick off at Busan on friday with 11-races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

RH7_2434

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(7) BANJIUI JEONSEOL was sent off an odds-on favourite on debut at the end of August only to be beaten six-lengths into 2nd by a good winner. He should have come on for the run and is favoured to get it right this time. (10) BARAMUI YEOSIN ran an improved 3rd on what was her fourth start on September 1st. She was a long way behind an excellent winner but looks to be on the improve and can maintain her momentum here. (1) SANBANG ANY DAY was a further three-lengths back in 4th place that day and can aim to at least match that here. (9) YEONGSEONG HOPE debuted all the way back last November and hasn’t been seen since. He won a trial on the last day of August and can go well first-up.

Selections (7) Banjiui Jeonseol (10) Baramui Yeosin (9) Yeongseong Hope (1) Sanbang Any Day
Next Best 2, 12
Fast Start 1, 5, 7

Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) AMORIS is the most experienced runner in the race and while that’s not always a good thing in a maiden, her recent form has looked promising with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two. She’ll be on pace and could go all the way in this filly-only affair. (8) YEONGGWANGUI TIME ran 3rd behind Amoris last start and has shown steady improvement over her three outings so far. (4) NANSAN YEOJE has been a little inconsistent but ran well for 2nd on her most recent appearance and will challenge Amoris for the early speed. Solitary debut-maker (2) CHOEGANG TOUCH was a good trial winner and should be in the mix first-up. (6) THUNDER VEGAS looks best of the rest.

Selections (5) Amoris (8) Yeonggwangui Time (4) Nansan Yeoje (2) Choegang Touch
Next Best 6, 1
Fast Start 4, 5, 6, 8

Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Five of these raced each other over this distance on August 30th. It was (11) BICHUI HOWI who came out on top among them that day, finishing 2nd, four-lengths behind the winner.  His primary rivals here are likely to be the same horses he faced that day and he could well beat them again. Of the others who ran in that race, (1) THUNDER BAY and (9) SUN MOUNTAIN, who came home 3rd and 4th respectively, have the best chance of overturning that form. Both will come from off the pace and finish strongly. (8) BAEDARI CAPER, 5th in that race could also improve here. Among those who didn’t take part that day, (2) SIMON DREAM, 4th on his first try at this distance last start, looks to be the best.

Selections (11) Bichui Howi (1) Thunder Bay (9) Sun Mountain (2) Simon Dream
Next Best 8, 12
Fast Start 1, 2, 4

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

Good little race this. (4) CHEONNYEONUI ULRIM was a winner at class and distance on September 1st, his first try at this class and his maiden win after back to back runner-up finishes. He raced prominently that day and a repeat is possible. He does though carry an additional 3.5kg though which may let in (5) RAON TOWN. He was much more fancied when 4th in the same race and could very well overturn the form today. The one they’ll both have to beat though is (2) HWARANGUICHAMPION. He split the pair of them in 3rd last time out – his first try at this distance. He can come from just behind the early speed an be too strong. Both (3) TWO TWO HAMMER and (12) THE FACT have placing chances but there should be a word too for (8) GARAK GONGWON who races for the 100th time here. He comes in having run 4th in starts 98 and 99 and could slide into some minor money once more.

Selections (2) Hwaranguichampion (5) Raon Town (4) Cheonnyeonui Ulrim (3) Two Two Hammer
Next Best 12, 8, 1
Fast Start 3, 4

Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(12) TOP FIRE has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far. He’s run through the line well both times and the slight step up in trip may be enough to see him home on top this time. After running 2nd on debut, (2) AMOR FATI has finished a beaten favourite in both subsequent starts. He’s drawn well again and with a fast start he’ll be a serious contender. (8) PARTY LION improved for a three-month layoff early this summer and comes in having run 3rd in both her starts since returning. She’ll be on pace early and can make a place again. (1) HUSE JEWANG and (5) MYEONGGA DAERO best of the rest.

Selections (2) Amor Fati (12) Top Fire (8) Party Lion (1) Huse Jewang
Next Best 5, 3
Fast Start 2, 8, 11, 12

Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(1) DONGTEUJA DAY is up in class after a win on his second start on September 1st. Both her times have been quick, but both were at 1000M so he’s up in trip as well. Nevertheless, from the inside gate, he should be on pace and will take some beating. If he does come up short, then (9) MS. UP looks best placed to take advantage. She’s up in class following her maiden win last start and while it wasn’t as eye-catching as that of Dongteuja Day, it was at this distance and she looks to have scope for more development. (2) DAMYANG CHOEGANG remains a maiden after twelve attempts but ran a close 3rd in (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 20)

After the short Chuseok break, racing returns to Korea this weekend kicking off on Friday with a 12-race card at Busan from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

RH7_8728

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) ECHO SUN looks the one to beat here. He had a hard time in a valuable race over the distance last month but had previously shown ability with a 2nd and a 3rd. He can come from close to the pace and win (11) B.K. VICTOR looks next best. He lost most of his three-year-old season but came back in August and has since recorded a 2nd and a 3rd. All his starts so far have been at this trip and he can be dangerous here. (8) ECTON STEALTH finished 4th behind B.K. VICTOR last start and can go close again while (9) BEYOND and (3) WAKANDA are others to look out for.

Selections (2) Echo Sun (11) B.K. Victor (8) Ecton Stealth (9) Beyond
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 8

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

Fillies only here. Similar to Echo Sun in race 1, (11) WONDERFUL PEACE put in two food performances to begin her career before finding things tough in the same valuable juvenile race a month ago. Back in more amenable company today, she should have every chance of making her breakthrough, most likely leading from the front. (1) TWO TWO FAIRY also struggled in that race last month having previously shown ability in two goes over 1000M. She’ll join Wonderful Peace on the early speed and can be a danger. (6) CHEONNYEONUIHEUIMA has offered some glimpses of ability across four starts so far while best of the rest could be the solitary newcomer. (2) ADELE SPIKE looked nice and handy when running 2nd in a trial towards the end of August and can go well first-up today.

Selections (11) Wonderful Peace (1) Two Two Fairy (2) Adele Spike (6) Cheonnyeonuiheuima
Next Best 3, 9
Fast Start 1, 2, 11

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here with four of the twelve having race before. Among those, (11) ADELE STROM looks to be one of the banker favourites of the day, having run a very capable looking 3rd on debut on August 16th. He’s drawn wide but should overcome it and should win. Both (2) FLYING KINGS and (4) JINJU SARANG were also-rans in that same August race and both will be expected to improve here while the other one with prior experience, (3) AFLEET YOUNG ran on reasonably well over 1200M on his debut back in July and may appreciate the extra half furlong here. Among the debut-makers there are no real eye-catchers – (1) MR. JOY was perhaps best looking in trials.

Selections (11) Adele Strom (3) Afleet Young (2) Flying Kings (1) Mr. Joy
Next Best 4, 5
Fast Start 1, 11

Race 4: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive looking handicap with (12) USEUNGUI PARANGSAE getting the verdict. He finished runner-up in his opening two starts to get promoted to this level and then got his maiden win on a muddy track at class and distance on August 23rd. He’ll need to overcome the wide draw to get on pace, but once he does that, he should be hard to beat. (11) HUNTER PARK is yet to score in fourteen attempts but come in having finished 2nd in both his latest efforts, both at this trip and both in decent times. He looks the most credible threat here. (5) PERDIDO ROCKET and (6) HWANGGEUMBITMASENG are both up in class having finished 2nd and 3rd respectively when racing each other on August 23rd and both should be competitive at this level. (3) TIME TOGETHER looks best of the rest.

Selections (12) Useungui Parangsae (11) Hunter Park (5) Perdido Rocket (3) Time Together
Next Best 6, 4
Fast Start 9, 12

Race 5: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(9) CASTEL CORE has come close in two tries at this distance so far, finishing 4th and then 2nd, the latter time having led until close to home. It should be third time lucky of a mile today with him leading all the way. (4) LISTEN TO ME ran 3rd behind Castel Core last start and looks to have as good a chance as any of taking on the favourite here. (6) WONDERFUL SUPAH has looked useful in his latest three, each time running through the line well and tackling a mile for the first time today may well suit him. (5) SEOBU GENTLEMAN hasn’t been too far away in either of his two tries at this distance so far and should be knocking on the door of the places again while (8) TAMNA LIST is another who attempts the distance for the first time and may be considered.

Selections (9) Castel Core (4) Listen To Me (6) Wonderful Supah (8) Tamna List
Next Best 5, 12
Fast Start 3, 4, 9

Race 6: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

The first race of the day without a stand-out favourite. (4) ALPHA KING is up in class having secured his maiden victory at the second time of asking on a muddy track a month ago. Likely to be ridden forward here, he could immediately follow up. The biggest danger looks to be (9) CHANGE BACK, a class and distance winner here in June and who comes in following creditable runs in two races that were arguably a bit (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 6)

The Korea Cup & Sprint are the main events this weekend but the weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a big 12-race card from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan World Sun

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

(2) AMORIS ran an improved 2nd at this distance last start, running on well and beaten three-lengths by a good winner. He’ll be one of a number on pace here and looks the most likely winner. (10) HANSEN MULGYEOL ran encouragingly for 6th on debut three weeks ago and looks to have potential for improvement here while (6) SHINING EYE also did nothing too wrong on her first outing in July and can also make progress today. (9) BEAUTIFUL KOREA and (12) DALGI are others in the frame.

Selections (2) Amoris (10) Hansen Mulgyeol (9) Beautiful Korea (12) Dalgi
Next Best 6, 7
Fast Start 2, 5, 9, 10, 12

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(4) WORLD SLAM ran a good 3rd last start, coming from off the pace to record a career-best finish. He’ll go back again today and could be the one to beat. He may though leave himself too much to do, in which case (2) MYEONGGA DAERO can be the one to take advantage. He’s never finished any better than 4th but has been knocking on the door of the places for some time and could breakthrough here. He’ll be on pace with (11) BORYEONG HWANHO, another who comes in off the back of a useful 4th on a wet track just two weeks ago. (7) CHARGE POWER and (8) PERFECT BULPAE are others who can aim for the places.

Selections (4) World Slam (2) Myeongga Daero (11) Boryeong Hwanho (8) Perfect Bulpae
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 2, 3, 11, 12

Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the nine having raced before. Among those, (5) CAPTAIN STEALTH is the only one to have raced twice and he’s shown some ability running 4th and 3rd, both at this distance. He can go one better today. (6) YEONGGWANGUI START finished 4th on debut, one place behind Captain Stealth on August 3rd and he could be the main danger here. (2) HANBIT TAEYANG was 5th in the same race and he too can improve. (7) CENTUM BEONGAE weakened on his first start three weeks ago but the came off the back of a good trial and he can be given another chance here. Among the first-timers, (8) ECHO WHITE looks the pick.

Selections (5) Captain Stealth (8) Echo White (6) Yeonggwangui Start (7) Centum Beongae
Next Best 1, 2
Fast Start 2, 5, 6, 7

Race 4: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens. (8) FIRST STAR ran a good 2nd on debut on August 3rd. In the process, he beat three of those we saw in race 3 so that race could serve as a good indication of his prospects here. (5) DAEJI JARANG was an improved 2nd on what was his second start on August 16th, running on well and he’s likely to be the main danger. Among the debut-makers, (2) BANJIUI MAGIC was the fastest in trials, while both (3) RAON YEOGEOL and (4) FUTURE KING also put in useful performances. As ever, watch the market for clues with the newcomers.

Selections (8) First Star (5) Daeji Jarang (2) Banjiui Magic (3) Raon Yeogeol
Next Best 4, 6
Fast Start 3, 5, 7, 8

Race 5: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) NEW QUEEN may be a maiden, but she has finished no worse than 4th in any of her latest eight outings. She should maintain that record today and she may even start as favourite but of course, it is possible that she will probably find one or two too quick. (6) HAPPY AGAIN is up in class having registered her maiden win at the fourth attempt with a three-lengths score over this distance on August 18th. She’ll join New Queen on pace early and could win again. (5) SERENDIPITER is a thirty-two-race maiden but has proven capable of finding the money against this kind of company. (3) JIGURYEOK PALPAL and (9) TITLE CODE are others who can go close.

Selections (2) New Queen (6) Happy Again (5) Serendipiter (9) Title Code
Next Best 3, 11
Fast Start 2, 6, 8, 10

Race 6: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(5) ROYAL TICKET beat four of these on his way to 2nd place at class and distance on August 4th. He led pretty much the whole way around but got caught late on and had to settle for his third runner-up finish in eight starts. He may not lead early today but looks the pick here. (6) ONNURI GANGJA was sent off favourite that day, which is some going for what was a fifty-five-race maiden. He’s still a maiden having finished 4th on that race and then 3rd when re-appearing two weeks ago. He’s a consistent money winner and should at least place again here. (4) TWO TWO CAPTAIN struggled a little on his first try at this class three weeks ago but has won at this distance before and can be considered. (3) URANUS J and the up in class (10) MARK ONE are others who look capable.

Selections (5) Royal Ticket (6) Onnuri Gangja (3) Uranus J (10) Mark One
Next Best 4, 2
Fast Start 7, 10, 11

Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(11) TOHAM STAR has run 2nd in both his starts at this class following a maiden win on a wet track back in June. Both times he’s run to form, being beaten by good winners and today should be his day. (4) MABEOP CHEOREOM ran a really good class and distance 2nd last start on August 18th. That was her third runner-up finish and she looks to be the biggest danger here. (1) LOVE LETTER had a poor day at the office last time but was going well prior to that and can be given another chance here. (2) VIP KING and (8) THUNDER STRUCK are others who were a bit below par on their respective latest appearances but who can be better today.

Selections (11) Toham Star (4) Mabeop Cheoreom (1) Love Letter (8) Thunder Struck
Next Best 2, 6
Fast Start 7, 10, 11

Race 8: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(1) WONDERFUL LION ran a good 3rd behind the excellent Mr. Afleet at class and distance on August 3rd. She’s two starts into a comeback following seven months out and was 2nd on her return. She’s led both times, can do the same today and this time can win. (9) SEONGSAN POWER comes in following a good 2nd at class and distance three weeks ago and can be a danger here while (5) WONDERFUL TALE is up in class following an all the way win over this distance in a fast time a month ago and has every chance of following up. (7) WONDERFUL STORY returns from a six-month layoff and looked sharp when winning a trial two weeks ago. (8) TIME SPEC another who can go well on his day and who should be in at least the placing hunt. It should be a wonderful race.

Selections (1) Wonderful Lion (8) Time Spec (5) Wonderful Tale (7) Wonderful Story.
Next Best 9, 4
Fast Start 1, 4, 5

Race 9: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

There is one first-time starter among the eight who go here, and he could well be the winner. (6) KING OF BOSS is a four-year-old, who first started to trial eighteen months ago. He finally makes it to the track having successfully come through a good trial three weeks ago and he could well be worth the weight. He faces plenty of experience, including (1) SMILE FACTOR, a winner over 1200M last time out and a likely pace-setter here. (4) RETURN OF SUBSIDY returns for the first time since March and looked competent enough in a recent trial while (7) FINE TRUMPET is much better than his latest start – in much tougher company than this – suggests. (2) YEONGUNG ILGI is another who can go well.

Selections (6) King Of Boss (4) Return Of Subsidy (1) Smile Factor (7) Fine Trumpet
Next Best 2, 3
Fast Start 1, 8

Race 10: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) SANGSEUNG POWER is up in class following a good win over 1300M on August 18th. That win had been coming and he seems on an upward trajectory that could see him to another victory here. (5) KING LION beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over 1000M a month ago. That was first-up following seven months out and he can continue to make progress today. (6) QUICK MOVE and (7) BUGYEONG STORY are both slightly better than recent form would suggest sand they can begin to turn things around here. (10) DAEHO JILJU similarly hasn’t found it easy in two starts at this level so far but can get better today.

Selections (3) Sangseung Power (5) King Lion (10) Daeho Jilju (6) Quick Move
Next Best 7, 9
Fast Start 1, 2, 11

Race 11: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(10) SEOBU CAT has finished no worse than 2nd in seven starts so far, with three of them ending in the winner’s circle. He was runner-up on his latest outing when odds-on favourite on his first try at both class and distance, leading until late on. This time he should be in front again and should stay there. (1) CAPTAIN GUY looks to be the principle threat dropping back in trip after a slid 3rd over 1800M last time and very capable at this level. (4) CHEONNYEONUI GANG was an improved 4th last start and can continue to improve here while (2) U S MAN and (6) QUEEN OF CAPTAIN, the latter up in class, are others who can figure.

Selections (10) Seobu Cat (1) Captain Guy (6) Queen Of Captain (4) Cheonnyeonui Gang
Next Best 2, 12
Fast Start 2, 4, 8, 10

Race 12: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(10) RED CLOUD beat Seobu Cat, who we saw in race 11, at this distance last month to get promoted to this class. He comes in here under a nice light weight as the form horse and he could win again. It won’t be easy though. (2) A PURE GOOD MAN is a class and distance winner and while he has slightly underperformed when carrying significant weight in his latest two, he still has plenty of quality. (3) ROCK HARD SEVEN too has been a little indifferent of late but has plenty of scope to return to form. (1) DARMA ran a good 4th last time out and can aim for a repeat while (4) YEONGCHEON DERBY looks best of the rest.

Selections (10) Red Cloud (2) A Pure Good Man (3) Rock Hard Seven (1) Darma
Next Best 4, 8
Fast Start 2, 4, 6

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 1)

There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Rock Choice Ministers Cup

Minister’s Cup winner Rock Choice will be in action at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(1) SEUNGNI JEONSEOL was all over the place in her first few starts but has got things together well recently and comes in having finished 2nd in her latest start on August 11th, running on well. She’s the form horse and should be registering her maiden win here. (10) GYEONGGUKJIMA has had an interrupted career but goes well on her day. She’s not got much in the way of speed but may not need to in order to go close here. She got a good 2nd two starts back and can repeat that today. As for the rest, we’re looking for something to step up. (8) MASEONG JILJU has been through three trials since he last raced and could be one. (4) HIT THE PACE, returning from six months out, could be another.

Selections (1) Seungni Jeonseol (10) Gyeonggukjima (8) Maseong Jilju (4) Hit The Pace
Next Best 2, 3
Fast Start 1, 7, 8

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

Juvenile filly maidens here with just three of the twelve having raced before. Of those three, only (11) JEONGSEONG STAR has demonstrated much in the way of ability, running 3rd – albeit ten lengths behind the winner – over 1200M on her second start at the end of July. She can aim to match that here. O the debut makers, (4) DOKBO CHEONHA is half-sister to Captain Blade, who was a precocious youngster before injury ended his career after six wins from ten starts. She won her latest trial in a fast time and is set to be favourite. (2) CHEONDUNG YEOUL is the third foal out of Korean Listed winner Cheoneun and she was similarly impressive when winning a trial, albeit on a wet-assisted track. (5) LUCKY SMILE and (7) SHINY FIRE are others who can debut well.

Selections (4) Dokbo Cheonha (2) Cheondung Yeoul (11) Jeongseong Star (5) Lucky Smile
Next Best 7, 6
Fast Start 2, 3, 4, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

It’s time for (4) YULONG FLYING to make the breakthrough. He’s been knocking on the door for some time and comes in off a good 2nd on a muddy track at this distance at the end of July. He should be a cut above these. (2) ACE WIN has done nothing wrong in two starts so far and can continue to improve here while (11) WONDERFUL PANGPANG disappointed slightly last time out but looked well when winning a trial a couple of weeks ago. (1) PENUNMBRA and (8) WONDERFUL CAT, the latter starting for just the second time, are others who may challenge for the places.

Selections (4) Yulong Flying (2) Ace Win (11) Wonderful Pangpang (1) Penumbra
Next Best 8, 3
Fast Start 1, 3, 4, 11

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

Totally wide-open handicap here with lots coming in off good recent form and potentially ready to win. (9) BLACK PARTY has a 2nd and a 3rd in two starts at this level since getting her maiden win over this distance in March. She’ll look to get on pace here and can win again. (3) HANSEN BAROWS comes in having run a close 2nd over the distance on July 27th, running on well from a wide draw. Expect him to be up with the leaders earlier rom gate 3 and he has a real chance. (1) MYEONGMA JILJU was a touch disappointing when 6th on a very wet track last start but has unlucky not to win the time before at class and distance and should be close here. (2) LUCKY SOCHEON, (11) CHEON GOE SEONG and (4) LAO JIN, the latter specialising in finishing 3rd, are among several others in the hunt.

Selections (3) Hansen Barows (9) Black Party (1) Myeongma Jilju (11) Cheon Goe Seong
Next Best 2, 4, 7
Fast Start 1, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) MENI GRAND has a 4th and a 2nd from two starts so far at this class following back to back wins in April and May which got her rapidly promoted. She’ll be close to the pace here and can go on to win. (9) LUMINESCE comes in with similar form having also been rapidly promoted and also runs at this class for the third time. He was 2nd on his latest outing, also at this distance. He’s very much a front-runner and could prove difficult to get past. (2) DELTA K has recent form reading very positively and can continue that good run here. (1) FOREVER WINNER, who already has a class and distance score to her name, and (6) BUCKETFUL GOLD, up in class after a pair of runner-up finishes, are others in at least the placing frame in what is a competitive race.

Selections (3) Meni Grand (9) Luminesce (6) Bucketful Gold (2) Delta K
Next Best 1, 10
Fast Start 3, 4, 6, 9

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

(4) DONE IT MY is a twenty-six-race maiden but beat a couple of these on his way to 4th place over 1300M on August 4th. He’s a slow starter but has a decent finish on him and will pass horses late on. Will he pass enough, though? If he doesn’t then (2) ULSAN JANGGUN may be one that he fails to reel in. He’s a solid campaigner at this level and should be on pace from the gate here with every chance of sticking on the whole way around. (6) MAJOR PUNCH is up in class having scored her maiden win by half a length at the end of July and looks to have scope for more progress. (3) TIZ JYFUL and (12) MAJOR POWER are others who can go close in a competitive race.

Selections (2) Ulsan Janggun (4) Done It My (6) Major Punch (3) Tiz Joyful
Next Best 12, 9
Fast Start 2, 5

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(9) CALL WIN has been knocking on the door in each of his latest three, beating several of these along the way. He’s taken to this distance very nicely and today ought to be the day he makes his breakthrough. (5) YOUNG STORM also has recent good form over this distance and while he only managed 5th of 8 over 1300M last start, he should be better (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 30)

The final weekend of evening racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 14:30 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Illumina

Final night of the light show at Busan

Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Filly maidens to begin with. (3) MS. UP has looked good across three starts so far culminating in 2nd place last time at this distance. She’s well drawn to get on pace here and can make the breakthrough. (1) MISS ADELE will likely join her on the early speed and she steps up in trip for the first time following back to back 3rd place finishes from her first two outings and looks to be the main danger along with (2) ME NOVIA, who has improved over her five outings so far. (4) ACE JACKPOT and (5) BORYEONG JILJU, the latter much improved last time out, are others in the placing hunt.

Selections (3) Ms. Up (2) Me Novia (1) Miss Adele (4) Ace Jackpot
Next Best 5, 11
Fast Start 1, 3

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

Twelve juvenile first-time starters here. (8) BANJIUI JEONSEOL was by some margin the quickest of them in trials and the Hansen colt is set to begin as a warm favourite here. If he brings that trial from to the track, he’ll be hard to beat. Another Hansen colt, the subtly named (10) MR. HANSEN also caught the eye in trials and should go well first up while other solid performers in the morning include (2) OASIS GIRL and (5) I’M YOUR FASHION, both of whom recorded competitive times, while yet another Hansen colt, (9) JEONSEOLUI BULKKOT also did nothing wrong in his heat. As ever with this kind of race, watch the market for more clues.

Selections (8) Banjiui Jeonseol (2) Oasis Girl (10) Mr. Hansen (5) I’m Your Fashion
Next Best 9, 7
Fast Start 1, 2, 8, 10

Race 3: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(6) PAGEUKCHEON steps up in class following a convincing maiden win over this distance on July 26th. He looks to be getting better and with more improvement still in the tank, he can immediately follow-up here. (7) NEOLBEUN GOEUL beat Pageukcheon when they raced each other in early June. He hasn’t found life easy in two starts so far at this class but should be happier today put back down to the minimum distance. (10) TIME TOGETHER beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at class and distance two weeks ago and should beat plenty again. (3) USEUNG JIKIMI is up in class following back to back runner-up finishes but should be competitive. (11) OCEAN GREY looks best of the rest.

Selections (6) Pageukcheon (7) Neolbeun Geoul (10) Time Together (3) Useung Jikimi
Next Best 11, 1
Fast Start 3, 6, 12

Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(5) HORTENSE stepped up to this distance for her third start earlier this month and she seemed to take to it well, beating four of these on her way to a 2nd place finish. She came from off the pace that day and can do the same here, going one better. Of the ones she beat that day, none really caught the eye although (10) ANGEL KING STAR will be expected to improve on what was only his third career start. More credible threats are (9) SUN MOUNTAIN, who tackles a mile for the first time after finding form over 1300M and (8) THUNDER BAY, who has been inconsistent across six efforts to date and also goes over 1600M for the first time. The more experienced (2) BICHUI HOWI is another who (more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 25)

History of a kind will be made at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday when racing over the distance of a mile returns to the capital for the first time in more than thirty years. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 17:05. 

20190822_171316.jpg

While Busan Racecourse, which was opened in 2005, is home to the KRA Cup Mile, the opening leg of the Triple Crown, until now, the configuration of Seoul Racecourse hasn’t allowed for races over the Guineas distance of 1609M. Not since the old Ttukseom Racecourse closed in 1989 – and even there the “mile” races were in fact 1650M – has the distance been available in the city.

That’s all changed with the construction of a dedicated starting chute between the first and second corners which allows for a run-up of just over 100M, and the first pair of races using the new distance will be run on Sunday afternoon. In addition to the mile races there are valuable Juvenile events at both Seoul and Busan.

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) GOLD HERO has run 3rd in both starts so far, both at this distance. Her times haven’t been especially fast, but she looks to have improvement in her and won’t need to be much better to win this. (1) POWER PRIDE looks to be figuring things out with 4th places in both his latest two. He has tended to give himself a bit too much to do but has run on well and can find the money again today. (9) DAE YONGWANG too has run well at this distance before and can be competitive here. (3) ROYAL CHUKJE can improve off an inauspicious debut.

Selections (2) Gold Hero (1) Power Pride (9) Dae Yongwang (3) Royal Chukje
Next Best 4, 7
Fast Start 2, 3, 4

Race 2: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) TANGO TIME was a good winner on debut, making all over this distance. He’s up in class today but is nicely drawn to get on pace once more and has every chance of repeating. (10) BLUE DAEJAYEON is up in class as well, in his case following a pair of runner-up finishes. He will need to get a bit faster at this level but there’s nothing especially intimidating about this field so he should be competitive. (3) GEOM HONG is similarly up in class despite being winless and returns to action for the first time since January. While she’ll most likely need this, she looked sharp enough in a quick trial two weeks ago. (4) BEST EFFECT is one of those imports who began at class 4 but has found himself down in class. He is competitive at this level and can find the money.

Selections (2) Tango Time (10) Blue Daejayeon (3) Geom Hong (4) Best Effect
Next Best 1, 5
Fast Start 1, 2, 7

Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Having secured her maiden win at this distance in June, (4) CRAZY Q ran 4th on her first try at this level last start. She carries a nice light weight under an apprentice jockey, and she could well be the one to beat today. (5) CHEONGSU BIG EAR finds herself up in class having run 2nd in both her starts to date. She’s up in trip for the first time as well and it may suit. (8) SOLGAEBARAM is up in class having won over 1200M on July 14th. That was somewhat unexpected so she will need to improve but she warrants respect. (10) RAON BRIAN and (11) GEUMSUNI STAR are others to consider.

Selections (4) Crazy Q (5) Cheongsu Big Ear (8) Solgaebaram (10) Raon Brian
Next Best 11, 2
Fast Start 1, 2, 8, 12

Race 4: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) BLACK SPIRIT is a seventeen-race maiden but comes in off an encouraging 3rd place at class and distance on July 20th. Alan Munro knows her well and it’s not impossible that today could be their day. (2) TANTAN WINNER was a touch disappointing on his latest start at the end of last month but is better than that and should improve here. Similarly (4) QUEEN OF CAMP dropped back to 1300M last start and should be better for coming back up to two-turns today. (5) GEUMA SUPREME and (12) PARK BLADE are others who could feature prominently in a wide-open race.

Selections (8) Black Spirit (2) Tantan Winner (4) Queen Of Camp (5) Geuma Supreme
Next Best 12, 3
Fast Start 1, 2, 8, 12

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

(5) RAYMOND is a two-time winner at this distance including one at this class. He got slightly obstructed in the home straight last time when a slightly disappointing 5th but is the pick to return to the winner’s circle today. (2) RAON KHAN is rapidly up in class having won his latest two. He made all last time and while he will need to be quicker at this level, he can be competitive. (1) STORMY has plenty of class and distance experience and can aim for the places here while (7) JEONGSANG MANSE and (9) MONSTER QUEEN look best of the rest.

Selections (5) Raymond (2) Raon Khan (9) Monster Queen (1) Stormy
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 2, 3

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive handicap here. (6) DONGBANG NARAE has impressed recently, following up her maiden win over a mile early last month with 2nd place on her first try at this class on July 26th, beating a couple of these in the process.  She can come from just off the pace and can win again. Her main danger may be her stablemate (4) TIZBE. She secured her maiden victory in fine style last month and looks to be on an upward trajectory with the increased distance today only likely to suit. (7) GWONTOJUNGLAE hasn’t quite lived up to early promise but races for the first times since May and could be interesting here. (10) ONNURI GANGJA is rarely far away and can challenge for the places along with (12) GIPPEUM DAY.

Selections (6) Dongbang Narae (4) Tizbe (7) Gwontojunglae (12) Gippeum Day
Next Best 10, 9
Fast Start 1, 4, 5

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(10) EMORY SOCKS has been hovering around the minor money for some time now and while she carries a bit more weight today than in previous outings, that’s because Moon Se Young climbs aboard in place of an apprentice and that may be what she needs to see her back into the winner’s circle. She’ll be kept close to the pace and can win. (5) BLUE FIRE is becoming a 2nd place specialist, having finished as runner-up in his latest three (more…)