Busan

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 16)

Promising filly Rainha will step out for the fourth time at Busan Racecourse on Friday seeking to maintain her 100% record as she moves up in class in the 1600M race 9. There are a total of 10 Friday races at Busan from 11:30 to 18:00.

You In Kwen

Jo In Kwen & You Hyun Myung

Trained by Kim Young Kwan, Rainha is owned by Shunsuke Yoshida and her dam is Allwise (Mr. Greeley) who had three foals in Japan before being relocated to Nokwon Farm on Jeju Island in late 2014 while in foal to Gold Allure. That resulting foal was Rainha. In the meantime, her filly by Heart’s Cry, born a year earlier and called Historia, last November won the TVK Sho at Tokyo Racecourse and now boasts a record of three wins from nine starts in the JRA. Rainha is already a winner over a mile having sauntered home by four-lengths on her first try at the distance last month and she’ll be strong favourite again.

Rainha is one of several winning chances on the card for jockey You Hyun Myung. He’ll be expected to go close too with Nangnam Jeonsa in race 5 and Triple Party in race 10. Jo In Kwen looks to be the man to follow though and he can get favourite backers off to a good start with Christiano in race 1 while later on, Wonderful Memory should be hard to beat in race 3 as should Choegang Bullet in race 7. Here’s the race-by-race.

Trained by Kim Young Kwan, Rainha is owned by Shunsuke Yoshida and her dam is Allwise (Mr. Greeley) who had three foals in Japan before being relocated to Nokwon Farm on Jeju Island in late 2014 while in foal to Gold Allure. That resulting foal was Rainha. In the meantime, her filly by Heart’s Cry, born a year earlier and called Historia, last November won the TVK Sho at Tokyo Racecourse and now boasts a record of three wins from nine starts in the JRA. Rainha is already a winner over a mile having sauntered home by four-lengths on her first try at the distance last month and she’ll be strong favourite again.

Rainha is one of several winning chances on the card for jockey You Hyun Myung. He’ll be expected to go close too with Nangnam Jeonsa in race 5 and Triple Party in race 10. Jo In Kwen looks to be the man to follow though and he can get favourite backers off to a good start with Christiano in race 1 while later on, Wonderful Memory should be hard to beat in race 3 as should Choegang Bullet in race 7. Here’s the race-by-race.

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

(2) CHRISTIANO was 2nd on debut all the way back in September which enabled him to take his chance in the Gimhae Mayor’s Cup, one of Busan’s top juvenile races. He finished 6th of 8 and was later found to be lame. He returns here having transferred barns and looking very sharp in a trial two weeks ago and should take some beating. (8) PEACE RIDER has been a longshot in both starts so far but showed definite improvement when a close 4th on what was his second start three weeks ago and looks to have the best chance of getting closest. (7) WHIPLASH MARINE was very green on debut six weeks ago, starting poorly and hanging inwards in the straight. He has previously shown some ability in a trial though and can improve today. First time starter (5) VICAR BLADE will get some backing due to his connections with his trial to be taken with a pinch of salt while fellow debut-maker (6) WINNER CINDY also didn’t look completely clueless when qualifying.

Selections (2) Christiano (8) Peace Rider (7) Whiplash Marine (5) Vicar Blade
Next Best 6
Fast Start 2

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

(5) YONGGU has shown solid progress over five starts so far culminating in a close 2nd place at this distance on February 23rd, with (1) TIME SPEC and (2) MACHADO in 3rd and 5th behind him and he has solid claims on going one better today. Machado was actually favourite that day, on what was his debut, off the back of a strong trial showing and he can have come on for the run and get close this time while Time Spec should be in the hunt as well. However, the main danger is likely to be posed by (3) CATCH NINE. A strong 2nd on debut at this distance on February 2nd he was set to be favourite on his scheduled reappearance two weeks ago only to be found lame in his right front leg and was scratched. Now recovered from that minor setback, he can challenge for the win here.

Selections (3) Catch Nine (5) Yonggu (2) Machado (1) Time Spec
Next Best 6, 4
Fast Start 1, 6

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

A much-improved 2nd on what was his third career start on February 9th over this distance, just beaten three-quarters of a lengths, (2) WONDERFUL MEMORY should be able to get onto the early speed from a favourable draw here and more than likely will lead all the way. At the other end of the experience spectrum is (4) HWARYEOHAN TAEYANG, who may have raced twenty-three times without a win, but whose recent form reads well, and she’s been getting closer. Her 4th place last time out at this distance was especially promising she has every chance of at least getting a little closer today. Every one of (3) GOLDEN AGE’s fourteen prior outings have been over 1000M with one 2nd place to show for it. He’s up in distance for the first time and will be on pace early. While he’ll likely weaken late on, he may well have enough in hand to at least place. (1) OS TOP and (6) GAMDONGUI SUNGAN are others who have hinted at some ability and may improve here.

Selections (2) Wonderful Memory (4) Hwaryeohan Taeyang (6) Gamdongui Sungan (3) Golden Age
Next Best 1, 5
Fast Start 2, 3, 5

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Another small field but it looks competitive. (5) GASOK SPEED did enough on debut back in January, racing 5th at this distance, to suggest he has potential and he is the slight pick here. He began well that day and briefly led in the home straight and coming in here after eight weeks off, can win. (1) STORM GOLD has also shown some promise but has been inconsistent across five starts to date with his best of 3rd coming over 1200M. This is his first time up at this trip and it may suit. It’s a similar story with (2) EDGE OF WINNER although she has raced at this distance before, coming home 4th of 8 back in January – she actually finished ahead of Storm Gold when the pair raced each other at 1000M a month ago. (8) BUGYEONG DERBY has a 3rd place to his name at 1000M while (7) NOPIGOM NAREUSYA was considered to have enough potential to be given a run in a big juvenile race last autumn. That didn’t go well but she’s shown a couple of glimpses since and both those two could go close here.

Selections (5) Gasok Speed (2) Edge Of Winner (1) Storm Gold (7) Nopigom Nareusya
Next Best 8
Fast Start 5, 7

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

(1) NANGMAN JEONSA was a class and distance winner on February on February 4th and while he carries an additional 3kg today, we’re going to keep it nice and simple and opt for a repeat. That day he overturned the form on (4) SEORABEOL DOLPUNG who along with (8) SOJUNGHAN INYEON had actually beaten him at the distance in January and he can confirm his superiority here. Bart Rice’s (2) MABEOPUI JILJU has taken to this distance very nicely indeed, following up on being narrowly beaten into 2nd place on January 26th with his maiden win three weeks ago by a commanding four lengths. He’s up in class today but is a big threat from a stable that looks to be coming into form. Peter Wolsley’s (5) FIRE POINT never really got involved on what was her first run at this class on February 9th. She’s bumped up in distance today and could go well. The other one to take note of is (12) JOYFUL STORY. He remains a maiden after sixteen attempts but hasn’t been too far away in recent starts and is a proven money-getter at class and distance.

Selections (1) Nangman Jeonsa (2) Mabeopui Jilju (5) Fire Point (12) Joyful Story
Next Best 4, 7
Fast Start 1, 4, 10, 12

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

(5) GREAT ROCK got his maiden win at the third time of asking on February 23rd and while he’s up in class today, Triple Nine’s “full” brother has a great chance of making it two in a row. He can set up camp just behind the early lead and finish strongly. There is danger though and it’s another one who is up in class who provides it. (4) GEUMSURYEONG has a 2nd place and a win from his two outings so far, the victory coming by an impressive three-lengths at this distance just two weeks ago, making all, and he’s well drawn to get off to a good start again and may be hard to catch. It would be a big surprise if those two don’t fill out the quinella but there are one or two other useful types here too. (1) BLACK FINE and (2) MEISTER GO both come in off decent efforts at this class last time and should be in placing contention while (3) NAMDO GEOSANG defied long odds to run a decent class and distance 3rd place, ahead of a couple of these, just over a month ago and could repeat here.

Selections (5) Great Rock (4) Geumsuryeong (2) Meister Go (1) Black Fine
Next Best 3, 6
Fast Start 3, 4, 6

Race 7: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(10) CHOEGANG BULLET was a strong 3rd on his first try at both class and distance five weeks ago having been rapidly promoted to this level with back to back wins at five furlongs. That race was arguably a little stronger than this one and so long as he can overcome the wide draw, he’ll be the one to beat here. (12) AWESOME KING IJI has been close in all four of his starts so far including 4th place over a mile on his latest. The Oxbow colt does look to have a win in him at some point and he should be the biggest danger here. The widest gate shouldn’t be too much of a factor for him as he doesn’t necessarily need to lead early on. (5) DONGBANG BULPAE drops back in trip after a good 3rd over a mile a month ago while (8) GOOD ONE MAN has a lot of experience at this level and should be in at least the placing frame. (2) ADELEUI BOM, two starts into a comeback following a lengthy spell out, could be another to watch.

Selections (10) Choegang Bullet (12) Awesome King Iji (5) Dongbang Bulpae (8) Good One Man
Next Best 2, 4
Fast Start 4, 9, 10

Race 8: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

A class and distance 3rd on February 25th, (1) MASTER WIN can win this. Since a 6th place on debut, he’s never been worse than 3rd (one of them a dead-heat for that position) and has beaten a couple of these in recent outings and can come out on top here. (2) ACEUI SEONMUL drops back in trip today and should be on the early pace with every chance of going close while (5) ROYAL KELLY’s latest three have been underwhelming but she steps back up in distance today and can be given another chance. (11) YEONGUNG JEWANG and (8) CITY WINNER came home in 5th and 6th places respectively, behind Master Win in January. Both race for the first time since and both can get close once more. (9) WINDY PARK disappointed around 1300M last time but is another who can be given another chance having proven ability at this level in the past. (6) SEOGANG JILJU races for the first time since running 2nd to Yeongung Jewang all the way back in December. He returns up in class but still with plenty of promise and he should be a contender here.

Selections (1) Master Win (6) Seogang Jilju (8) City Winner (2) Aceui Seonmul
Next Best 11, 4, 9
Fast Start 2, 5, 7, 8

Race 9: Class 3 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(1) RAINHA, the well-bred half-sister to a JRA Stakes winner, has looked untouchable in three starts to date, winning them by a combined nineteen lengths without being extended. She is up in class today and faces her stiffest test against a group of battle-hardened class 3 horses, but she surely has far too much for them. If a surprise happens, (3) USAIN NUT, a winner last time he ran at this distance last November, could be one to take advantage – he ran a strong 2nd over 1800M last time beating a couple of these. Thomas Gillespie’s (7) MUJEOK SINHWA enters after a good 3rd place last time, and similar to Usain Nut, beat a couple who go here, and he looks to be the other one that has a conceivable chance of challenging the favourite. (6) OCEAN LINE and (8) WIN GO MAN are others who can have placing claims.

Selections (1) Rainha (7) Mujeok Sinhwa (3) Usain Nut (8) Win Go Man
Next Best 6, 5
Fast Start 1, 5, 8, 11

Race 10: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

Six of these raced each other over class and distance on February 9th and it was (9) DAMYANG HWANHO who emerged on top that day with a front-running performance. He carries slightly more weight today but nothing too extreme and he’s the pick to score again. Of the ones behind him that day, (6) TRIPLE PARTY in 3rd and (5) CHOEGANG FORCE ONE in 6th were the ones who got closest and have the best chance of overturning that form here. (8) BOUND KOREA was a winner over a mile in January to get promoted to this class and while he only managed 5th on his first try at this level at 1800M three weeks ago, he can be dangerous here. The wildcard pick is (7) STEAL THE SHOW WHY. She races for the first time since running a very good 5th in the Jeju Governor’s Cup, one of the top Sprint races for fillies & mares in Korea, in Seoul last September and looked in good shape in a recent trial.

Selections (9) Damyang Hwanho (7) Steal The Show Why (8) Bound Korea (6) Triple Party
Next Best 5, 4
Fast Start 3, 9, 10, 12

Seoul Owners’ Trophy Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 11)

#UPDATE – Final Boss is a non-runner in the Owners’ Cup – Lame in left-foreleg.

Final Boss produced a late surge in a dramatic finale to January’s Segye Ilbo Cup and the 2017 Korean Derby winner can see off the same rivals once more in Korea’s first Group race of 2018, The Owners’ Association Trophy at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon (Seoul: 11 races from 10:45 to 18:00 and Busan: 6 races from 12:40 to 17:05).

FInal Boss Segye

There was a dramatic finish to the Segye Ilbo Cup in January. The same horses return for Sunday’s Owners’ Cup (Pic: KRA)

Segye Ilbo Cup – January 28, 2018: https://youtu.be/Xr5dN9un_TE

In total, seven of the thirteen who lined up for the Segye Ilbo Cup on January 28th, take their chances again in the Group 3 Owners’ Cup including the top five place-getters that day and they will be favoured to battle it out for top honours once more. 2017 winner Always Winner, who pulled off a Segye/Owners’ double a year ago, set out in front that day and for a time looked like he was going to repeat his feat of leading gate-to-wire.

That was until a frenetic final furlong which saw City Star, Cheonji Storm and ultimately Final Boss close at speed to sweep past, with Final Boss winning by a neck under Moon Se Young. Final Boss was Champion Juvenile in 2016 but had an up and down three-year-old campaign in which his Derby win was sandwiched between disappointing showings in both the first and final legs of the Triple Crown. His talent was not in doubt, but his maturity was but solid performances in the back-end of last season started to allay those doubts.

If the grown-up Final Boss shows up on Sunday, another big race win – and potentially another big year – awaits.

The Owners’ Association Trophy is race 9 on an 11-race Sunday card at Seoul. Here are full previews of each race (Busan selections follow at the bottom):

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

Exactly half the field are first time starters here but it’s to the ones with at least some experience we turn to find out top picks. With a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, (3) CAMP TOUCH will be strongly favoured to score here on what is her fourth career outing. On her way to that 3rd last time on February 10th, she beat three of the others who go here and should take some beating. (7) WAIT AND SEE was 4th in that race, quite a way back but not without promise on what was his debut and he can build on that today. Among the others who have raced before, (12) RAON ZEUS was also a promising 4th in January and is likely to start as second favourite here. Of the first-timers, (5) TWO M OKAY and (9) SURFING POINT looked the best in trials and may be worth a look first-up.

Selections (3) Camp Touch (12) Raon Zeus (7) Wait And See (9) Surfing Point
Next Best 5, 10
Fast Start 3, 6, 7, 12

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

A winner on debut in early January, (2) JEJUI BARAM followed up with a slightly disappointing but in no way poor 5th place over the same distance on his first try at this level two weeks ago. He was on pace that day and will likely be again and this time shouldn’t get caught. Despite still being a maiden, (3) ILGAKSU finds himself up in class following back to back 2nd places both at this distance. He’s a front-runner too and has every chance of being competitive at this level. (7) BOLD NINER hasn’t been too far away in his latest two and could play a role here while (1) RUBY BEOLKIN and (6) CHAPEL ACE are others who should be in at least the placing hunt.

Selections (2) Jejui Baram (7) Bold Niner (3) Ilgaksu (1) Ruby Beolkin
Next Best 6, 12
Fast Start 2, 3, 5, 10

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

We’ve had relatively obvious picks in the first two races, but this looks a little trickier. (1) JUMBO CAPTAIN was a much improved 2nd when tried at this distance for the first time a month ago and can build on that today while (8) ROYAL PRINCE too took the trip well on what was just his second start a day later. Both can build on those performances here. (12) DORAON ACHIM HAE and (7) JUMEOK DOKKI came home in 4th and 5th in a decent contest at the distance on February 10th and they too should be involved today. Jumeok (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 9)

This weekend’s big race is at Seoul on Sunday and the Owners’ Association Trophy but things kick off at Busan on Friday with 10 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Divide Wind

We’re probably going to be seeing this picture a lot over the next month – Busan’s Divide Wind heads the 3yo ranks after his victory last Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Wide open maiden to kick things off with half of them racing for the very first time. We’re going to side with experience though and (12) HOTHAE, 4th in his latest two, both and this distance and showing a bit of improvement on each occasion is the slight pick. He was actually beaten on debut back last December by (4) TANGO AND TANGO and the latter went on to run a good 2nd five weeks ago again at this distance and she looks to be the main danger. (9) MAJOR ANGEL showed signs of potential talent when an improved 5th on what was her second start at the end of January while (8) KKEUTPAN TURBO races for the first time since last September and acquitted himself well in a trial three weeks ago. Talk of trials brings us to the first-time starters and among them, (6) PARTY WINNER looks most promising.

Selections (12) Hothae (4) Tango And Tango (8) Kkeutpan Turbo (9) Major Angel
Next Best 6, 3, 7
Fast Start 1, 9, 10, 12

Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(3) HEUGSEOL GONGJU is the one to beat here with her 4th place at 1300M on February 9th a bit more impressive than the performances of the others who come in off promising results. She can settle just behind the early speed and finish strongly. (2) MY TIME was 3rd last start, also at 1300M and has every chance of at least matching that. He’ll likely run with similar tactics as Heugseol Gongju. (1) B. K. MARINE finally showed some ability last start and steps back up in trip today – she will probably be looking to lead from the gate. (4) BAEKDU QUEEN and (11) BELLAMY GONGJU others who could go well.

Selections (3) Heugseol Gongju (2) My Time (11) Bellamy Gongju (1) B.K. Marine
Next Best 4, 7, 10
Fast Start 1, 4, 9, 10

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

Kim Young Kwan’s (7) SPOT wasn’t especially well-backed on debut after an underwhelming trial but he ran pleasingly enough on debut despite getting into a bumping match coming into the home straight. He ran on for 2nd and could well go better here stepped up in trip following nine weeks off. (4) VIP KING is the other one who’ll be at the top of the market. He’s raced five times so far with his best being 2nd place at 1000M in January. Last time, he ran a solid enough 4th at this distance, beating a couple of the others who go here. He’s drawn better today and could well lead all the way. (2) GRACIELA didn’t go well at this distance on debut but looks ready for another crack at it following back to back 4ths back at 1000M. (6) PYEONGCHANG HORANGI and (8) BAEKDU MYEONGWOL are two others who have hinted at ability.

Selections (7) Spot (4) VIP King (2) Graciela (6) Pyeongchang Horangi
Next Best 8, 3, 1
Fast Start 2, 4, 6, 8

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

(8) BULMYEORUIMARIPGAN established himself as a worthy plodder who while slow, sticks to his task admirably, and over the course of a mile stays on so well that he inevitably passes plenty in the closing stages. Since returning from five months off in January, however, he’s run 3rd and 2nd and comes in today, against a set of horses who, for the most part, he has already beaten, and he has to go on top. (4) DAEHO MYEONGGA (more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 4)

Choinma vs Gaon Champ at Seoul / Divide Wind vs Captain Force & Haeya vs Captain Blade at Busan

Sunday’s Sports Seoul Cup at Seoul Racecourse may have only attracted a field of eight-runners but it features two of the hottest three-year-olds at the track right now as Choinma and Gaon Champ meet over 1400M. Meanwhile at Busan, Divide Win faces stablemate Captain Force as well as Gimhae Mayor’s Cup winner Major Sun in another big three-year-old contest, the Gyeongnam Sinmun Cup

Choinma

Choinma was Seoul’s best juvenile in 2017 but he didn’t have to race Gaon Champ (Pic: KRA)

Choinma was Seoul’s top juvenile of 2017 winning both the Gyeonggi Governor’s and Gwacheon Mayor’s Cups before running 2nd to Busan prospect Ecton Blade in the Breeders’ Cup in December.

Gaon Champ wasn’t involved in any of those races, however, the Ecton Park colt only debuted at the start of December and picked up two modest races before blowing away a strong field in a valuable juvenile race in December, two weeks after the Breeders’ Cup. He’s won his three starts to date by a combined margin of thirty-lengths. There have been concerns throughout about his soundness and he does race at 1400M for the first time, but he is reportedly fit and ready to go and will surely be hard to beat.

Choinma has raced once as a three-year-old already, surprisingly beaten into 2nd in his first try around two turns at 1700M in January but he is still very much in the hunt. Neither he nor Gaon Champ are front-runners so the early pace will most likely be set by Mask and Sinui Myeongryeong, both good prospects themselves, while Sharp Kaylan too looks a better horse than he was when beaten by Gaon Champ in December – since then he’s won two in a row by six and four-lengths respectively.

The Sports Seoul Cup is the highlight of an eleven-race Sunday program at Seoul while at Busan, The Gyeongnam Sinmun Cup headlines five races. Only Seoul is available on overseas simulcast so only full comments for Seoul but Busan Selections are at the bottom:

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

This one looks to be (11) ROAN DOLPUNG’s to lose. The Victoire Pisa gelding didn’t show much in his first two starts but has since followed up with consecutive 3rd place finishes both at this distance and at 1000M and should take some beating today. Despite being drawn wide, he should get on the early speed and lead all the way. The others have plenty to find. (3) BLACK SPIRIT and (7) SPEED YEONGUNG have both hinted at some potential talent, the latter beating a couple of these on his latest outing. (8) EOMJI YEOWANG showed signs of improvement when 5th last start and could maintain that momentum here. (2) FIRST THUNDER the best of a limited rest.

Selections (11) Raon Dolpung (8) Eomji Yeowang (7) Speed Yeongung (3) Black Spirit
Next Best 2, 12
Fast Start 5, 6, 10, 11

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

(2) DAE CAIN was considered promising enough by connections to be given a run in Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup, one of Seoul’s top juvenile races, las October. He was overmatched, only beating two home. He has since bounced back and his latest two starts, both at this distance and ending in 4th and 2nd placed finishes suggest a maiden win isn’t too far away and he’s the pick to score. (10) ONLY BARAM enters off back to back 3rd places and should be competitive again, while one of those he beat a couple of starts ago, (6) MIGHTY COOL, hasn’t been too far away in his recent tries and can be close again. (7) RUN AWAY was an improved 4th last time and enters the placing frame as does (12) SKY DOLPUNG, who can be given another chance after a lacklustre effort behind Dae Cain a month ago.

Selections (2) Dae Cain (10) Only Baram (6) Mighty Cool (7) Run Away
Next Best 12, 11, 4
Fast Start 1, 7, 8, 9

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

(2) GULCHARMNAMUSUP finished strongly to record a maiden win on debut on January 20th and while she is up in class today, she showed enough to suggest she is going to be very dangerous once more. (4) GANGCHONUI BYEOL used different tactics on her own debut two weeks later, leading from the gate, but the result was the same as she made all for a very comfortable win and she too steps up in class. At least one 100% record is going to be broken and it could go either way. We’ll come down marginally on the side of Gulcharmnamusup. Should both be beaten then it’s another up in class one, (7) SEONGBUL CHAMP, who could be best placed to take advantage. She has never been worse than 5th and was a really good winner last start at this distance. (1) HI EUREKA was a decent class and distance 4th last time while (8) SIMPLE RULES is better than the 8th place he registered on his first try at this class back in December and should be better dropped back in trip today.

Selections (2) Gulcharmnamusup (4) Gangchonui Byeol (7) Seongbul Champ (8) Simple Rules
Next Best 6, 9
Fast Start 2, 4, 6, 7

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

(2) JEONGSANG DOLPUNG steps up in class today following a commanding four-length win over 1000M at the end of January. On his only previous try at this distance he led early only to fade to 5th late on but he should be better now and can stay on this time. The big danger is (7) HYEONMU. He couldn’t get on the early pace from a wide draw when well-backed last time but looks better positioned to do so today and is a proven performer at this class. (9) DICE KING must be respected entering as he does a class and distance winner a month ago. It wasn’t an especially strong race, but Dice King won (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 2)

Racing for March gets underway at Busan on Friday. Just 10 races with the first at 11:30 and the last at 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens to kick things off today. Bart Rice’s (3) SEUNGNI DAEJANG ran a creditable 4th on his racecourse debut a month ago beating (1) BAEDARI SINHWA in the process. He should be prominent early on here and could win. None of the other experienced ones have caught the eye at all with even (4) GIPPEUM DAY’s debut 3rd place being about as unimpressive as a 3rd place debut is possible to be, however, (6) TIZ POWER’s poor debut came at 1300M eight weeks ago and he’s looked much better in two subsequent trials at this distance. We’ll turn to a first-timer starter to find the danger. (5) SINBIHAN BARAM turned in an impressive trial performance last week, winning his heat and so long as he didn’t leave his race there, can go well.

Selections (3) Seungni Daejang (5) Sinbihan Baram (6) Tiz Power (4) Gippeum Day
Next Best 8, 7
Fast Start 3, 5

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

Having trialled very impressively, (4) S S YOUNG was sent off a short-priced favourite on debut three weeks ago. He could only manage 2nd place but showed enough to suggest a first victory won’t be too long in coming and she should get it here. Both (2) JISAN OREUM and (3) SWEET MEMORY showed improvement in their latest outings, both coming home 4th in similar races to this and both can get in the placing frame this time. (9) PERFECT BOSS has been well backed for all three of his starts so far and while he hasn’t really delivered as yet, with a 6th and a pair of 5ths, he hasn’t run badly and could improve this time. There are three debut-makers, but it may be best to take a watching brief with them for now.

Selections (4) S S Young (3) Sweet Memory (2) Jisan Oreum (9) Perfect Boss
Next Best 5, 8
Fast Start 1, 2, 3, 7

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

Another maiden for three-year-olds and it involves a few promising ones. (7) CATCH NINE was a very good 2nd on debut on February 2nd having raced prominently throughout. She’ll be winning sooner or later and it could well be here. (2) GEUMSURYEONG was similarly good on his own debut in January, running on well and he should benefit from today’s extended trip. (6) CHIEF LEADER showed some aptitude for the distance when stepped up to it and registering 3rd on what was her second start and she can be in the frame too. (4) USEUNG TEN already has two 3rd place finishes at the distance and while he did ok when stepped up to a mile last time, the drop back in distance is in his favour today.

Selections (7) Catch Nine (2) Geumsuryeong (6) Chief Leader (4) Useung Ten
Next Best 3
Fast Start 6, 7

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

More maidens although it is age open this time. (7) JOEUN HAE has been getting closer across four outings so far with all of them being in slightly stiffer company than this. He hasn’t managed to get on the lead in any of those races but he could well do so today and is the one to beat. (6) ACE WOMAN too has hinted at some ability across ten unspectacular efforts and while she’s never finished any better than 4th, she should be (more…)

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

A big day’s racing on Sunday at both Seoul and Busan. Seoul has 11 races from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 6 contests from 12:40 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

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

(8) HAPPY MAUNTAIN ran 2nd on debut four weeks ago and while he was beaten a long way by a very handy winner, he showed enough to suggest he knows what he’s doing and he’s the pick to see off this field which is comprised six debut-makers and six who have just run once each. (9) HANSEN VOLT and (10) DONGBANG JIJU both also hinted at some kind of ability on their respective debuts and while neither were fast, they can improve here. Among the first-time starters, (12) FRENCH STAR looked the most convincing in trials. As ever with the debut-makers, watch the market.

Selections (8) Happy Mauntain (9) Hansen Volt (12) French Star (10) Dongbang Jiju
Next Best 3, 11
Fast Start 2, 10, 12

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

Fillies only here and (8) MORAN DONGBEAK finished well to pick off three of her rivals here when running 4th over 1000M on January 27th. She gets an overdue bump up in trip here for the first time and it could well pay dividends. (2) CHOM NIA has raced at this distance before and while it didn’t go especially well, a decent 2nd back at 1000M last month when she ran on well through the line suggests she may go better this time. (10) BANGGEUT BANGGEUT too ran on nicely on debut at the minimum distance before running out of track and could also appreciate the extended trip today. (12) IRYEO HAYEO has run over 1300M before and did well at it. She came 3rd on January 21st in a very similar contest to this and should be looking to at least repeat. (7) MAGGIEUI CHUEOG is another to consider.

Selections (8) Moran Dongbeak (2) Chom Nia (12) Iryeo Hayeo (10) Banggeut Banggeut
Next Best 7, 5
Fast Start 2, 3, 6

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

Tricky contest this. (4) JEJUI BARAM was an all-the-way winner in an all-filly race on debut at the distance on January 6th. She is up in class here but the competition is not especially intimidating and she could well win again. (10) THE QUEEN GRACE was such an eye-catching winner on her own debut last September that she was entered in a big juvenile race the following month. It didn’t go well as while she was prominent early, she faded to beat only one home in the Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup. She returned though to run 2nd on her season debut a month ago, back at 1000M and she should be a threat. Half a length behind The Queen Grace last time was (11) ROYAL ACE and he can aim to match that here while (1) GALAXY POWER and the up in class (12) GEOSEON MAPUNG both have potential at this distance.

Selections (4) Jejui Baram (10) The Queen Grace (1) Galaxy Power (11) Royal Ace
Next Best 12, 3
Fast Start 1, 4, 5, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) GEUMBIRANG was a much-improved 2nd on what was his third outing on January 14th. He’s a slow starter but a strong finisher and while it is perhaps surprising he’s dropped back slightly in trip today, he can still win. (3) RAON SIRIUS hasn’t been too far away in each of his three outings to date and can go close here. He’s well drawn to get on the early lead and could go all the way. (5) FLYING JOY didn’t go well on debut over 1300M but was much improved when dropped back to the minimum on reappearance last month. Moon Se Young being on board for the first time will enhance his appeal among punters. (10) BARAM KING likewise showed signs of improvement in his second (more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 23)

We’re back after the extended Lunar New Year break and accordingly it’s big fields at Busan as the weekend’s racing gets underway on Friday. 11 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Racecourse winning line

Busan is back!

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

Three-year-old fillies to kick things off with today and a competitive contest too. (3) CHEOLBI and (4) STAR WOMAN are the ones who come in with convincing form behind them. Cheolbi’s 2nd last time was at this distance while Star Woman’s 3rd was at 1000M but in perhaps marginally stronger company. Both should be involved today with Star Woman likely to try to lead from the gate. The one they will need to overcome will also be on speed early and that’s (10) SWEET PARK. Having won a trial in December, she was well-backed on debut last month and while she only managed to finish 3rd, she should have come on for that and can be strongly in the frame here. (7) JANGSEONGUI JILJU and first-timer starter (11) MYEONG GONGJU are others to consider.

Selections (10) Sweet Park (3) Cheolbi (4) Star Woman (7) Jangseongui Jilju
Next Best 11, 12
Fast Start 1, 4, 10, 12

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

(2) GREAT ROCK is Triple Nine’s full-brother (one of many and they’ve all been pretty good). He’s come up a little short in two starts so far with a 4th and a 2nd before having to be scratched with a minor abrasion prior to what would have been his latest on February 2nd. From a favourable draw today, we’ll be looking for him to get out and on pace early and to make it third time lucky. There are threats. (5) SAKISAKI has shown promise in back to back 3rd place finishes. She raced most ungenerously last time hanging outwards for much of the way around but still got into the money and with better manners this time can get even closer. (8) CHEONHA GAMDONG and (10) BAENGNYEON DAERO both ran 3rd on their respective debuts last month and can continue their positive starts here while (7) BIG RED IJI has shown signs of figuring things out with consecutive 4th place finishes in decent enough races for this level.

Selections (2) Great Rock (5) Sakisaki (10) Baengnyeon Daero (7) Big Red Iji
Next Best 8, 3
Fast Start 2, 3

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

Competitive looking contest here and there are a couple who look ready to win. Both (1) SEORABEOL YEOJE and (3) DANCING VICAR come in having gone close in recent starts and with champion jockey Jo In Kwen taking the mount for the first time, we’ll side with the more experienced Seorabeol Yeoje to make the breakthrough ahead of Dancing Vicar, who is racing at this distance for the first time. (5) PEACE TOUR was 4th, a length behind Seorabeol Yeoje, last start and can get close while (7) DAEHO MYEONGGA has hinted at having some talent and returns from a nine-week layoff. He went through two trials earlier this month and looked decent enough to compete here. An intriguing first-time starter is (10) JAZZ BAND. He’s a full-brother to 2013 Grand Prix Stakes winner Indie Band and 2015 Minister’s Cup winner Rock Band. It’s taken him to four-years-old to make his debut and he wasn’t exactly impressive in trials but there’s no doubting his pedigree.

Selections (1) Seorabeol Yeoje (3) Dancing Vicar (5) Peace Tour (10) Jazz Band
Next Best 7, 2, 6
Fast Start 1, 3, 7

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

After a couple of indifferent performances in his first two outings, (12) MABEOPUI JILJU thrived when sent up to this distance for the first time on January 26th, running a close 2nd to the very promising Air Blade and it would be a surprise were Bart Rice’s gelding not to go one better here. Running 3rd that day was the one-paced but honest (5) BULMYEORUIMARIPGAN and he can pass plenty late on to possibly finish on the board once more, however, the main danger is likely to be (8) CHOEGANG STEALTH. Like the favourite, he too was beaten by Air Blade on his latest start, back on New Year’s Eve, when he was 3rd over 1300M. He’s shown ability at this distance in the past and can get (more…)

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Donga Ilbo Cup Race-By-Race Preview (February 10)

Silver Wolf was last year’s Champion Mare and she returns to action at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday when she is expected to start a strong favourite in the Donga Ilbo Cup over 1800M. She will be ridden by Djordje Perovic, making his last appearance at Seoul for at least the time being as he seeks to recover from a back injury. 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 (only Seoul is on overseas simulcast this week): 

Silver Wolf Munhwa

Djordje Perovic & Silver Wolf will attempt to win the Donga Ilbo Cup on the Serbian jockey’s last day at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

Race 1: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A winner at class 6 over 1300M in December, (7) LEONNING STROM was 3rd on his first try at this level in a stiffer contest than this on January 13th having led for most of the race. He drops back to the minimum today and will be expected to win. (9) SUN BOLT was an all the way winner on debut on January 7th. He’s up in class here but if he gets off to the same kind of start he did that day, then he has a big chance. (2) MYEONGPUM BOBAE remains winless but steps back to the minimum today having weakened in both her latest two over further and she should be close. Back on Myeongpum Bobae’s debut, she was 2nd to (6) LUCKY MISS. The latter has only raced once since – a full thirteen weeks ago – and is worthy of another chance. (10) MAGIC AI returns to action for the first time in nine months and performed pleasingly enough in a January trial to come straight into placing contention.

Selections (7) Leonning Strom (9) Sun Bolt (2) Myeongpum Bobae (10) Magic Ai
Next Best 6, 12
Fast Start 2, 5, 6, 9

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

Both (6) KWAEHAN YEBONGSAN and (10) AMARONE are up in class having registered their maiden wins, both at this distance, on their respective last starts. This all-filly/mare contest is not a strong one and both can be expected to go well with Amarone slightly favoured to prevail. She’ll likely try to come from just behind the early speed which will probably be set by Kwaehan Yebongsa. Form doesn’t read well for the rest of them so we’re looking for one who finds herself in a better spot today than in recent outings. Punters will turn to (11) CHUKBOGUI YEOLMAE who comes in following a series of 4th and 5th place finishes in slightly sterner company and can benefit from the services of Moon Se Young today. (1) ARABIA GONGJU and (7) JASEONG GUNJU are others who fit the criteria for improvement here.

Selections (10) Amarone (6) Kwaehan Yebongsan (11) Chukbogui Yeolmae (1) Arabia Gongju
Next Best 7, 3
Fast Start 3, 6, 9

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

(2)  DUAL CHOEGANG makes his first start for Italian trainer Luigi Riccardi and it could very well be a winning one. The four-year-old had been getting closer culminating in a 2nd place, just beaten a neck, at the distance in December. That wasn’t a very strong race, but this isn’t much stiffer, and he should win. (11) JEJUI HEUKSEON was sent off as favourite in a similar contest to this back on January 14th. He briefly touched the front about a furlong out before being beaten into 4th and he may well provide the biggest test today. We’re struggling with the rest though. (3) LAST CONCERT has a 5th place finish to her name in similar company in December and while she hardly impressed on return last month, she could go well here. (6) VALLEY MOON and (12) BAEKDU POWER best of a limited rest.

Selections (2) Dual Choegang (11) Jejui Heukseon (3) Last Concert (6) Valley Moon
Next Best 12, 1
Fast Start 4, 5, 8

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

Three of these raced each other at class and distance on January 13th. (2) BOLD SHINING finished the best of them in 2nd with (1) BACK TO BACK in 4th (the pair of them split by Leonning Strom who we saw in race 1) and (4) HAENGUN NURI 5th. Back To Back began the race as favourite on the strength od a very solid December win over 1200M that got him promoted in class although Bold Shining also entered a winner. We’re going to go for the form to be overturned today and for Back To Back to be on top. (3) MACHA BUCHA comes in following a useful 4th place over 1300M two weeks ago and will likely set the (more…)

Busan Olympic Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 9)

It’s Friday February 9, 2018 and the eyes of the world are on  Korea  as one of the greatest sporting events on the planet gets underway. Yes, it’s Friday racing at Busan! 11 races from 11:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Park Tae Jong torch

The flame that jockey Park Tae Jong carried last month has almost reached its destination

 

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

Very tricky maiden to kick things off with plenty who’ve shown glimpses of promise but haven’t yet delivered. There was almost a year between (12) STORM GOLD’s third and fourth starts but he returned two weeks ago to run a good 4th at this distance. He was drawn wide that day too and if he can get a good start, can go close. (4) SAEROUN BARAM has been 4th in both his two outings. While he hasn’t been the quickest out of the gates, he’s run on well both times and can continue to improve here. Continuing the theme of coming home 4th in latest outings is the trio of (2) SAEROUN BOMUL, (6) EDGE OF WINNER and (8) GRACIELA with the latter of them impressing the most last time.

Selections (4) Saeroun Baram (12) Storm Gold (8) Graciela (2) Saeroun Bomul
Next Best 6, 1
Fast Start 2, 9, 12

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

A maiden restricted to three-year-old fillies. We’ve got a potentially exciting debut-maker among them too with (11) S S YOUNG set to be favourite having coasted through a January trial looking very competent. She’s a half-sister to Hangang Ruby, who won five of twelve starts a few years back and while nether he, nor the dam’s other foals, had especially long careers they began well, and S S Young can too. All the others have raced at least once before with (10) GRAY STORM coming in off consecutive 3rd place finishes and looking good to at least repeat. (6) BAEKDU MYEONGWOL was a creditable 5th on debut three weeks ago and can build on that here while (3) NEVER LAND and (7) TOP EURO should also be in the frame. The latter of those stepped up to 1300M last time and struggled but should be happier today.

Selections (11) S S Young (10) Gray Storm (6) Baekdu Myeongwol (3) Never Land
Next Best 7, 12, 4
Fast Start 4, 7, 8, 11

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

Five of the twelve raced each other over this distance on January 12th with the best of them being (2) FAST AWAY, who finished 2nd a full five lengths clear of the rest. He seems to have started to figure things out in his latest three and should indeed be fast away here on to the early pace and can go all the way. (6) HEUGSEOL GONGJU was the one who was 3rd that day, finishing in that position for the second time in five outings and she can place once more. (11) WONDERFUL MEMORY’s two starts so far have been in stiffer company than this and he will be expected to improve. (8) TESTA MAGIC went reasonably well over a mile last time and comes in fresh after nine weeks off with chances to improve. (12) ACE FORCE also drops back in trip following a solid 4th at a mile just two weeks ago. He’s expected to be on speed early and can compete.

Selections (2) Fast Away (11) Wonderful Memory (6) Heugseol Gongju (12) Ace Force
Next Best 8, 9
Fast Start 2, 11, 12

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

The last of the maidens is for three-year-olds only so sees some boosted prize money. None of them have raced more than four times and quite a few of them have shown some potential. (4) TIME SPEC came home 3rd, several lengths behind a pair of good ones on what was his second start on January 5th. It was at this distance and he got away well that day With a similarly good start today, he’ll have a solid chance. (9) YONGGU and (7) SEOLGWANGHWA finished 4th and 5th at the distance three weeks ago and the former especially will be fancied to match of better that today. Then there are the ones stepping up to the distance for the first time. (5) CHEONNYEONUI BADA was a decent 5th on debut at 1000M a month ago and will be expected to get a first start again here while (10) VIP (more…)

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (February 4)

Another cold spell has gripped the peninsula this weekend but racing will be going ahead as usual at both Seoul & Busan on Sunday. 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:

Ecton Blade

2017 Breeders’ Cup winner Ecton Blade kicks off his 3yo campaign at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6: Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(3) THUNDER MARINE has come close in each of three outings so far and while he could only manage 4th when favourite last time, he can get the early lead here and make all. (4) ILGAKSU and (1) MACHO HIME finished 2nd and 4th when they raced each other at the distance on January 7th and both can challenge again. Ilgaksu will most likely challenge Thunder Marine on the early pace and looks to have the best chance of beating him. 5th in that race was (2) JOEUN NADEURI, who is a little more experienced and already has a 3rd place to her name. She can go well here. Also experienced and in the frame is (5) CHOWON YEOJEONSA, who comes in off a best so far 2nd. Wildcard could be (8) INDIAN ECO who has been unspectacular but competent in both efforts so far.

Selections (3) Thunder Marine (4) Ilgaksu (1) Macho Hime (5) Chowon Yeojeonsa
Next Best 8, 2
Fast Start

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

(6) SEUNGRI PLUS was a well beaten 4th behind a good winner on December 23rd, but it was an encouraging first try at this distance and he looks to have scope to improve today. She can get on the early speed and go all the way. Also looking for a fast start will be (9) CHEON BYEOL, who after an inauspicious debut, has followed up with back to back 4th place finishes and can also improve. (11) SKY DOLPUNG put in a useful 3rd place a month ago and should be in at least the placing frame again while (3) ROYAL PRINCE and (7) BRILLIANT are others to consider.

Selections (6) Seungri Plus (9) Cheon Byeol (11) Sky Dolpung (7) Brilliant
Next Best 3, 4
Fast Start 4, 6, 9

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

(5) STAR CAT finds herself up in class despite remaining a maiden but the manner of her back to back runner-up finishes suggests that she has a win in her and also that she should have little to fear at class 5, especially in an all-filly contest such as this. She’ll likely be on or close to the early speed. (12) BIG EAR was a very easy winner on debut but didn’t go quite so well when sent off as favourite on his first try at this class over 1200M on December 17th. He’ll have to overcome the wide draw but he should be in contention here. (1) RUBY BEOLKIN remains winless after ten attempts but shouldn’t be too far away while (4) CHO ORONG MA and (9) ROYAL PARK are others in the hunt.

Selections (5) Star Cat (12) Big Ear (1) Ruby Beolkin (4) Cho Orong Ma
Next Best 9, 3
Fast Start 5, 6, 12

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

(1) AMENDA has closed from well off the pace to for a win and 2nd place in her latest two starts, both at this distance and the most recent of which was at this class. She’s been drawn inside today though and we’re going to expect her to go straight to the front and look to lead all the way. Perhaps a little ironically, while we expect the closer to try to lead here, the threats are likely to come from behind. (10) SPECIAL LIGHT and (12) MAMKKEOT DALYEO are both proven money winners (if not actual winners) at this distance and can finish strongly while (3) SKY BIG steps back in trip after a reasonable showing at 1700M last time and can go close. (7) GWACHEON TUHON and the up in class and back from a spell (8) KING EXPLOIT are others to look out for.

Selections (1) Amenda (10) Special Light (3) Sky Big (12) Mamkkeot Dalyeo
Next Best 8, 7
Fast Start 1, 4, 9, 12

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

Having breezed through a trial, (5) LUCKY ROOKIE was a comfortable winner on debut on December 17th, sitting handy early before going clear in the closing stages. He returns here up in class but at the same distance and in with a chance. A week later, (10) SEUNGNI NARAE did the same thing, comfortably winning on debut and is in the same position of being up in class with a chance. (9) BLACK WIND and (4) LEAD UP came home 2nd and 3rd at class and distance in December. The latter went on to run 6th of 12 at the start of January and both can be in the frame again here. (2) EAGLE SKY was considered good enough to run in a top juvenile race las October. He came 11th of 14 before then running last over 1300M in December. He went back to trial after that and returned, looking better when 4th at this distance three weeks ago and can continue to improve today.

Selections (10) Seungni Narae (5) Lucky Rookie (2) Eagle Sky (9) Black Wind
Next Best 4, 3
Fast Start 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(1) ORYONG could only manage 5th when well backed on what was his first try at this distance two weeks ago but he got a bad trip that day, checking at the start and having further problems in running later. He’s sent back out again quickly and this time he should win. (9) ARAM NARAE finds herself up in class having finished runner-up in both her outings to date. She was beaten by Oryong on debut and by another decent looking (more…)