Busan

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 10)

Korean Oaks weekend gets underway at Busan on Friday afternoon with 10 races from 12:40 to 19:00. There will be racing at Seoul on Saturday and both Seoul and Busan on Sunday.

Last weekend Seo Seung Un took full advantage of many of Busan’s top jockeys being away in Seoul to ride seven winners across the two days. Seo is back in action today add could well add to his winners but only one of his mounts is expected to be favourite. Other jockeys to follow today look to be the Italian pair of Paolo Aragoni and Pasquale Borelli – both should partner two favourites. In terms of trainers, champion trainer Kim Young Kwan could quite easily send out three or four winners. Here are brief notes on races 2-10:

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance/ KRW 20 Million / 13:25 (KST)

Can (9) HAEGA TTEUNDA get it done this time? She’s been well-backed since her debut but has managed to come up short each time. She needs a good start – something she has often failed to do – and if she gets it, she can win this. Main danger is (4) HAPPY JILJU, who got her best finish of 2nd last time out at this distance on May 13th. She beat (5) CHASEDAE into 4th that day which was a big improvement for the latter too. (2) ATHENS was a disappointing 7th on debut on May 20th but Kim Young Kwan’s colt can be given another chance here while another disappointing debut-maker (10) HAMAN YEOJEONSA is also expected to improve.

Selections (9) Haega Tteunda (4) Happy Jilju (2) Athens (5) Chasedae
Next Best 10, 7, 1
Outsiders 3, 6, 8
Fast Starters 4, 9, 10

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:10 (KST)

It’s an unfashionable trainer/jockey combination but (8) DANGCHAN JILJU was 2nd at the distance last time and a similar run today could well be enough to see off this field. He’s likely to get an uncontested lead and can go all the way. (1) SUPER BLADE was 6th in an all-filly race on debut last month and she’s the one from who improvement is most expected, having looked sharp in earlier trials. Thomas Gillespie’s (3) WINNING ALL was much improved on his second start just two weeks ago and can build on that today while (6) YEONGUNG CHULGYEOK and (7) WONDER BOY look to be the best of the rest.

Selections (1) Super Blade (8) Dangchan Jilju (3) Winning All (6) Yeongung Chulgyeok
Next Best 7, 9
Outsiders 2, 4, 5
Fast Starters 8

Race 4: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:00 (KST)

No fewer than five of these are up in class today and of those, it’s (2) KKOKDAEGI who looks the most likely to build on what was a winning debut on May 22nd. He came from off the pace to win over the minimum distance last time and the step up to 1200M today should suit him very nicely. Of the others up in class (8) MUJEOK VICAR, an eye-catching six-length winner last start, and (7) YEONGGWANGUI CAMP look to have the best chances to go on while among those with experience at this level (4) GANGJA DAERO and (1) SANGSEUNG MULGYEOL can find the places.

Selections (2) Kkokdaegi (8) Mujeok Vicar (1) Sangseung Mulgyeol (4) Gangja Daero
Next Best 7, 9, 3
Outsiders 5, 6
Fast Starters 3, 5, 8, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:50 (KST)

(11) BLACK TETRA has been favourite in both her last two starts but despite missing out both times, she is the choice to get it right today. She will look to lead from the gate. (8) MUJEOK SINHWA hasn’t found things easy in three starts at this level so far but can improve today while (12) CLEAN CHOEGANG started awkwardly and raced poorly last time but can be considered again following six weeks off. (2) LUCKY HANMA and (4) CHOEGANG EXCELLENT are best of the rest.

Selections (11) Black Tetra (8) Mujeok Sinwhwa (4) Choegang Excellent (12) Clean Choegang
Next Best 2, 9, 3, 7
Outsiders 1, 5, 6, 10
Fast Starters 2, 9, 11

Race 6: Class 4 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:40 (KST)

(6) KKEUTPAN HERO is two for two and up in class and distance but he is going to be up against it here against some promising imports. He is very nicely in the weights though and shouldn’t be overlooked. Kim Young Kwan’s (3) GUMALLI was a solid winner over 1400M and returning after over two months, looks to have solid claims while (9) GOLD BLUE beat a couple of these when winning, also over 1400M, last month. Both (4) PAMPAS FARM and (5) QUEEN ELEGANCE are yet to win but both are capable of coming close.

Selections (3) Gumalli (6) Kkeutpan Hero (9) Gold Blue (4) Pampas Farm
Next Best 5, 1, 7
Outsiders 2, 8, 10, 11
Fast Starters 5, 6

Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 17:20 (KST)

Banker favourite of the day here in (8) SAEROUN STEALTH. Last seen running 8th in the Korean Derby at Seoul four weeks ago, he should have too much for this field. Clear 2nd choice is (3) V MAN, who also went in the Derby and should be too quick for most. (4) HWANHUIUI BYEOL is the likely pacesetter and so long as he doesn’t do too much too early, can stay on well at this distance while (5) FIRST KING and (7) WORLD QUICK are others to consider.

Selections (8) Saeroun Stealth (3) V Man (4) Hwanhuiui Byeol (5) First King
Next Best 7, 1, 2
Outsiders 6, 9, 10, 11
Fast Starters 4, 10, 11

Race 8: Class 3 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 18:00 (KST)

(3) SISEON POCHAK drops back to a mile today following a couple of spins around 1800M – one of them successful and the other a 7th place in the Korean Derby – and having won at this distance in the past, should go well here. (2) ACME returns for the first time since January. He was on a strong of three consecutive wins before the spell and looked ok in a trial at the end of last month. He may need to sharpen up a little bit but can be considered. (5) SANGSEUNG JUNIOR is two starts back from a lengthy spell of his own. Both have resulted in 3rd place finishes and he should be at least matching that today, (1) SINCHEON YEOMANG and the up in class (6) CHEONJUNGWANG are others to consider.

Selections (3) Siseon Pochak (2) Acme (5) Sangseung Junior (6) Cheonjungwang
Next Best 1, 4, 7
Fast Starters 2, 3, 4

Race 9: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 18:30 (KST)

(4) BIT BLADE returned for the first time in a year on May 13th to go six for six and while he jumps up to two turns for the very first time, he is favoured to maintain his 1000% record here. Main danger is (3) MAGIC PARK who beat two of these when winning at a mile on May 1st and must be respected. One of those beaten that day was (1) SHARP GALE and he along with (2) WILD BURNING and (7) PROFESSOR SILVER look the most likely of the rest.

Selections (4) Bit Blade (3) Magic Park (1) Sharp Gale (7) Professor Silver
Next Best 2, 5, 6
Fast Starters 3, 4, 5

Race 10: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 19:00 (KST)

Four of these raced each other at class and distance on May 22nd and the winner that day (5) SUPER STORM is favoured to follow up today despite carrying an extra 2.5kg. The ones who got closest to him that day, (6) GANGHO DRIVE and (3) MACHU PICCHU look to be the main dangers again with Machu Picchu favoured to get a bit closer this time. (7) UBAKI and (4) SMILE QUEEN are others to consider for the places.

Selections (5) Super Storm (3) Machu Picchu (6) Gangho Drive (7) Ubaki
Next Best 4, 1, 2
Fast Starters 4, 5

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview

A big weekend of racing on the peninsula kicks off on Friday afternoon with ten races at Busan with the first at 12:40pm and the last at 7pm (there is also pony racing from Jeju Island in the gaps between races).

Fields look to be competitive with some warm, but by no means nailed-on, favourites throughout the day. Trainer Bart Rice was in top form in May and he can keep it going with Wonil Bulpae in race 7 (Edit: Wonil Bulpae has been withdrawn). Many of Busan’s top jockeys are away in Seoul this weekend for Sunday’s SBS and Ttukseom Cups so Ikuyasu Kurakane, Seo Seung Un and Lee Yong Ho look to be the ones to follow today.

English racecards can be found here. Race-by-race comments:

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(3) NANDANALA returned from almost a year out with a career-best 4th on May 6th and looks best placed to improve here and get her maiden win. (5) STRONG MYEONGUN will look to lead from the gate and is a danger while (1) GEOWIUI KKUM, making just his second start – a full nine months after his first, looked sharp in a trial a couple of weeks ago and may be considered. Debut-maker (6) HWANGGEUMBIT JILJU will have backers due to the stable while (8) PALMYRA and (10) JEONSEOLUI LEGEND are others with the potential to improve.

Selections (3) Nandala (5) Strong Myeongun (1) Geowiui Kkum (10) Jeonseolui Legend
Next Best 6, 8, 12, 11
Outsiders 2, 4, 7, 9
Fast Starters 5, 8

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(5) BEST CHEONGCHUN has managed a best of three 4th place finishes among eight starts to date but should have the beating of these and it’s about time she made the breakthrough here. (3) KWAESOK BOLT was a much-improved 3rd last time out, beating (7) HWASEONG ACE in the process and can be respected with likely pacesetter (1) TAKE AGAIN and (2) PERFECT KING others who are capable of being involved. Best Cheongchun should be winning, though.

Selections (5) Best Cheongchun (3) Kwaesok Bolt (2) Perfect King (1) Take Again
Next Best 6, 7
Outsiders 4, 8
Fast Starters 1

Race 4: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:00 (KST)

One of two up in class here, (8) WHITE BLUE is the narrow choice to follow up on her maiden win which she scored at this distance on April 15th. She made all that day and comes in following seven weeks off and while it may be harder to get to the lead today with plenty of early speed in this race, she is the one to beat. Also up in class is (4) TRIPLE PARTY; he is yet to win but has a 2nd and two 3rds in three starts and can maintain that record today while of the more experienced ones, (5) YEONGGWANGUISINHWA and (6) YUSEONG STAR look to be the main dangers. (9) GOLD SUN actually beat White Blue back in January but has struggled in three starts since.

Selections (8) White Blue (4) Triple Party (6) Yuseong Star (5) Yeonggwanguisinhwa
Next Best 9, 2
Outsiders 1, 3, 7, 10
Fast Starters 1, 3, 4, 8, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:50 (KST)

Competitive all-filly affair here but there are a couple of standouts. (6) ALBERT VICAR beat (4) MAJOR SLAM when scoring her maiden victory over 1200M three weeks ago and looks nicely in to repeat. Major Slam was 4th that day and can be a threat as can her stablemate (2) JUNGANG YEOJE. She is the only one of these up in class following a two-length victory over the minimum distance last month. (5) LOVE QUEEN beat (1) VALKYRIE at the minimum last month and both can challenge today.

Selections (6) Albert Vicar (2) Jungang Yeoje (4) Major Slam (1) Valkyrie
Next Best 5, 3
Outsiders 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 2, 4, 9

Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:40 (KST)

(4) DOCHI has shown gradual improvement and could perhaps have won had he not missed the jump at this distance just two weeks ago. Ultimately he was beaten four lengths by a decent winner but with a better start today, can win. (6) IMPASSIONED MARINE enters following back-to-back 3rd place finishes and 3rd is a minimum requirement today while the experienced (8) SAMDA GONGJU should have the beating of plenty. (1) OH MY CAPTAIN and (7) FOREVER VICTORY also look capable in this company.

Selections (4) Dochi (6) Impassioned Marine (1) Oh My Captain (8) Samda Gongju
Next Best 7, 9, 5
Outsiders 2, 3, 10
Fast Starters 1, 7

Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 17:20 (KST)

(Edited due to withdrawal of (7) Wonil Bulpae) (3) GLORY DAYS was 3rd, beaten 2 lengths by Wonil Bulpae over 1400M on May 6th and he inherits favourite status here. Formerly with the Rice stable (11) KING THE GRAY was a decent 2nd on his first start for his new handler last month and can go well again. (5) SSI F STAR looks best of the rest but we’ll need to keep an eye on (10) CUPID BUWHAL. Kim Young Kwan’s debut-maker was 2nd in his barrier trial and will have backers first-up.

Selections (7) Wonil Bulpae (3) Glory Days (11) King The Gray (10) Cupid Buwhal
Next Best 5, 12, 8, 9
Outsiders 1, 2, 4, 6
Fast Starters 3, 12

Race 8: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:00 (KST)

(8) MAD POWER is three-for-three and nicely in here to the extent that it’s hard to back against her keeping her unbeaten run going. (3) PRIVATE DANCER had an unbeaten record to defend when he raced over 1400M on March 20th. He was favourite that day but raced so poorly he was disqualified and banned for two months. He came through a trial last month in fine order though and will be one of the main dangers to Mad Power here. Also a danger is (2) ILMANGMUJE, up in class following a string of good results at class 5; she will join Private Dancer on the early speed. (6) USEUNG BEONJJEOK and (9) BETTER THAN YOU are others to consider.

Selections (8) Mad Power (3) Private Dancer (2) Ilmangmuje (9) Better Than You
Next Best 6, 7, 4
Outsiders 1, 5, 10, 11
Fast Starters 2, 3, 8

Race 9: Class 3 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 18:30 (KST)

A seven-length winner at 1400M, (2) GASOK ENGINE steps up in both class and distance today and while a previous try at a mile did not go well, he should be the favourite among this small but competitive field. (1) MR. KELLY has won at this class at a mile in the past and can improve on a lacklustre run at 1400M in March while (5) BEOLMA SONYEON showed signs of a return to form with a 3rd place at a mile last month, beating (6) JOKWANG and (4) MORNING GANGJA in the process. (3) HANBANDO JEONGBOK and (7) CAP IN ALL both come following 5th places which they can improve on here.

Selections (2) Gasok Engine (1) Mr. Kelly (7) Cap In All (5) Beolma Sonyeon
Next Best 3, 4, 6
Outsiders
Fast Starters 2, 3

Race 10: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 19:00 (KST)

Another competitive race to finish with and (5) READY WHEN YOU ARE is the slight pick to prevail having done well in two starts so far this year and looking ready for another crack at 1400M. He will look to lead all the way. (2) JUNGANG CHAMP beat (6) NOT ANYMORE by a length at a mile last time and both should be in contention here, as should (1) HEUKGANGJA, who has had eight weeks off since being beaten by Not Anymore over a mile in April. (3) POWER BULLET and (4) SEUNGNI WAVE are both up in class with the latter looking by far the more likely to have potential for further improvement. (7) JIBONG SEUNGNI struggled a little first-up following a lengthy layoff last month but can have come on for the run.

Selections (5) Ready When You Are (2) Jungang Champ (6) Not Anymore (1) Heukgangja
Next Best 7, 4, 3
Outsiders 8, 9
Fast Starters 1, 5, 8

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview

There’s a competitive card of racing at Busan this Friday afternoon. 10 races from 12:40 to 19:00 and English language racecards can be found here.

Here are race by race notes on the overseas simulcast races:

Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:25 (KST)

Second at this distance at odds in excess of 40/1 last start continuing a trend for improvement in each start so far, (1) BAROGA is the pick to take this. He has been slow away in each of his four races but so long as he is in touch today, he can win. (11) HANNAM DIVA also showed improvement last time and can build on her 3rd place from last month while (3) SAEROUN NA was an encouraging 4th on debut when not fancied at all on April 29th. (2) B.K. ONE and (5) SEORABEOL DOLPUNG are others to watch. (9) FEISTY is a rare debut-maker from Kim Young Kwan’s stable that won’t be very well backed.

Selections (1) Baroga (11) Hannam Diva (3) Saeroun Na (2) B.K. One
Next Best 5, 9, 10, 4
Outsiders 6, 7, 8
Fast Starters 2, 7

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 14:10 (KST)

We’ve a whole host of debut-makers in this maiden race but the favourites are going to be the ones with prior racing experience. (8) VICAR HOPE is the pick, and were it not for having drawn the outside gate on debut with a fast one on her inside, she may well have won. Things should be different today. (9) NORTHERN TRACE beat (1) THE WORLD as they race 2nd and 4th over this distance on April 29th; both can go well here with the former once more preferred. (3) JUNGANG YOJEONG was a well beaten 2nd on debut the same day at 1000M. Unfashionable jockey but the extra furlong may be to his advantage. Of the debut-makers, (7) FIGHTER REAT was the fastest in trials although trainer Bart Rice is flying at the moment so (6) MAJESTIC BEAUTY may also be considered.

Selections (8) Vicar Hope (9) Northern Trace (3) Jungang Yojeong (7) Fighter Reat
Next Best 6, 1, 5, 4
Outsiders 2, 10
Fast Starters 8, 9

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:00 (KST)

One of these is going to finally make the breakthrough today and it looks a nicely open contest. (10) FREE RUNNING looks slight favourite after finishing strongly for 2nd at this distance a month ago beating a couple of these in the process. Both (12) FERNANDO and (4) NOBLE WARRIOR have also beaten plenty of these and both will be looking to build on the 3rd places they achieved on their respective last starts. (2) YEONGUNG CHULGYEOK may not be winning but is capable of finding the money here while (1) TEXAS RUSH was 4th behind Free Running last start and can go well again.

Selections (10) Free Running (4) Noble Warrior (12) Fernando (1) Texas Rush
Next Best 2, 5, 9, 8
Outsiders 3, 6, 7, 11
Fast Starters 1, 5

Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:50 (KST)

(1) BLACK SAPPHIRE is up in class following her maiden win on her second start earlier this month and looks nicely in here to follow-up. It will be tougher for (3) JUNGANG DAERO, who is also up in class after winning for the first time. He’s back from four months off but can be competitive. (4) SUNGANUI BEOPCHIK looks the main danger, narrowly beaten a nose last time and surely with a win in him at this level. (5) GANGHO IRON is yet to win in seventeen but is capable of finding the money with (6) RUN STAR the other one to look out for.

Selections (1) Black Sapphire (4) Sunganui Beopchik (3) Jungang Daero (6) Run Star
Next Best 5, 2
Outsiders 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Fast Starters 2, 10

Race 6: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:40 (KST)

(11) YEONGTO DAEWANG was a six-length winner on debut on April 29th. She’s up in both class and distance but has every chance of making all once more in this all-filly affair. Main danger is (1) DAEHO GANGJA, second in a slow but competitive race at class and distance earlier this month. (9) HANNAM ROOKIE actually beat Daeho Gangja in April and can be considered while (5) UNFLAGGING HEART and (8) ROAN SANTOS look next best.

Selections (11) Yeongto Daewang (1) Daeho Gangja (5) Unflagging Heart (9) Hannam Rookie
Next Best 8, 10
Outsiders 2, 3, 4, 6, 7
Fast Starters 4, 10, 11

Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 17:20 (KST)

(10) I ONE was a winner on debut on April 3rd and while he goes an extra half furlong today that should only be to his advantage and he should win this. Most likely to take him down is either the domestic-bred filly (9) KWAEHAN MYEONGPUM, who is up in class following a number of near misses or (7) MABEE FLASHY, who was 2nd at 1400M, beating a number of these in the process, earlier this month. (1) AMAZING DAEJI is yet to score in twenty and probably won’t here but can compete for the places as can (12) TOUGH COUNTRY.

Selections (10) I One (9) Kwaehan Myeongpum (7) Mabee Flashy (1) Amazing Daeji
Next Best 12, 3, 11, 4,
Outsiders 2, 5, 6, 8
Fast Starters 1, 6, 9

Race 8: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:00 (KST)

(3) EOROK is up in class following back to back victories but while she should be competitive here, she won’t be favourite to complete her hat-trick. That will most likely be (6) FIVE VICTORS who needs to snap a streak of four consecutive 2nd places. Those have all been behind pretty decent horses though – he hasn’t started any of those races as favourite – and this looks his best chance of getting back in the winner’s circle. (7) JIBONG JILJU drops back in distance and can go well with (2) TURBO ENERGY and (4) WINNING NUMBER the others in strong contention.

Selections (6) Five Victors (3) Eorok (2) Turbo Energy (7) Jibong Jilju
Next Best 4, 10, 8, 1
Outsiders 5, 9
Fast Starters 4, 7

Race 9: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 18:30 (KST)

(1) IN THE BACK has finished no worse than 2nd in each of his last nine starts and while up in class and in distance today following victory at a mile, he can keep that run going. Also up in class and also in contention is (3) MORNING DAERO. He too won at a mile last time and he too tries two turns for the first time and looks to have strong claims. The one they need to beat is (6) RISING BRAVO. A class and distance winner on April 22nd, he beat four of these in the process and there’s no reason why he can’t follow up. Those three look above the rest with (8) FURIOUS PARK and (9) ROYAL IMPACT perhaps most likely among the others.

Selections (3) Morning Daero (1) In The Back (6) Rising Bravo (8) Furious Park
Next Best 9, 2, 12, 4
Outsiders 5, 7, 10, 11
Fast Starters 1, 5, 6, 7, 12

Race 10: Class 3 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 19:00 (KST)

(4) DAEJONGCHEON is still yet to win but comes in following five consecutive 2nd place finishes. He was beaten five-lengths last start by a good winner who has gone on to win again and there is a chance he can finally get it right today. It won’t be easy though and 2nd is a real possibility once more. (1) FURIOUS RUNNER is up in class and distance following a good win at 1200M three weeks ago while (3) BAEKDU was a solid 2nd at class and distance, ahead of a couple of these a month ago and has claims to go one better. (11) IRON TRAIN is another up in class having won at 1800M last month and also holds a win at this distance as does (12) GIANT HOLD. He was 4th behind Daejongcheon last time but the stable is in form and he should go well.

Selections (4) Daejongcheon (1) Furious Runner (12) Giant Hold (3) Baekdu
Next Best 11, 2, 5, 6
Outsiders 7, 8, 9, 10
Fast Starters 2, 4, 6

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview

All of a sudden we’ve had an early blast of summer on the Korean peninsula this week with temperatures above 30C for the first time this year. There is racing at Seoul on Saturday and Sunday but the action gets underway at Busan on Friday afternoon.

English racecards can be found here. Notes on race 2-10 are here:

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

An all-filly affair first-up and (2) PANGPANG LEGEND beat three of these when finishing 2nd in a very similar race on April 22nd and is the pick to go one better this time. Returning for the first time in six months, (4) SUPERNOVA IJI looks to be the main danger while debut-maker (6) SUPER BLADE also looks worth considering. Both came through recent trials in good order. (3) TIME CASTLE, beaten by Pangpang Legend last time and (11) HAEGA TTEUNDA, look best of the rest.

Selections (2) Pangpang Legend (4) Supernova Iji (6) Super Blade (11) Haega Tteunda
Next Best 3, 5, 10, 12
Outsiders 1, 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 4, 11, 12

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(1) BAEDARI GOSU showed good development in coming 3rd over 1200M on April 29th. She’ll be away slowly but has a strong finish and should appreciate the extra half furlong. She’s the pick. (4) SILENT LAGO and (11) RAON BENTREE have both come close in recent starts and both should do so again. Debut-maker (6) ATHENS showed promise in a trial at the end of last month and this modest company shouldn’t be too intimidating first up – he is from the Kim Young Kwan stable so he will be backed. (9) TAMNA CHEONHA was an improved 3rd last time out and can match that today.

Selections (1) Baedari Gosu (4) Silent Lago (6) Athens (11) Raon Bentree
Next Best 9, 2, 8, 7
Outsiders 3, 5, 10, 12
Fast Starters 3, 5

Race 4: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:00 (KST)

(5) INDIAN CHIEF is up in class following his maiden win on his fourth start on April 1st. He’ll go to the front from the gate and has claims once more. He may not be favourite though. (6) SMART MARINE is yet to win but was a very solid 2nd on his first try at this class over 1400M on April 29th and will be well-backed to make the breakthrough. He beat (2) DOCHI by four-lengths that day and that one can also improve while the two “Blues”, (1) RAON BLUE and the experienced (9) MISS BLUE are both likely to be on the early speed and are more than capable at this level.

Selections (5) Indian Chief (6) Smart Marine (2) Dochi (1) Raon Blue
Next Best 9, 7
Outsiders 3, 4, 8
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:50 (KST)

(6) WISH ME LUCK beat no less than six of these at class and distance on April 15th and can be backed to beat them again. He was 3rd that day and can go even better this time. (8) EUNHA and (5) OCEAN LINE were the two who came closest to him; the latter has gone on to record a 2nd place since and both can be considered here. (4) MR. SPENDING comes in following three consecutive 4th place finishes and should benefit from trying this distance for the first time as indeed should (9) WARRIOR KING. On the other hand, (10) GARAK GONGWON, who finally got his maiden win at the 32nd attempt three weeks ago may not appreciate the extra furlong.

Selections (6) Wish Me Luck (4) Mr. Spending (8) Eunha (5) Ocean Line
Next Best 9, 10, 12, 3, 11
Outsiders 1, 2, 7
Fast Starters 1, 7

Race 6: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:40 (KST)

This lot don’t have a huge amount of form against each other but (7) GYERIMUI JILJU beat (4) HOPPANG as the pair raced 2nd and 3rd over 1300M on April 24th and both will be among the top fancies here. (6) NURI BULPAE is a domestic class 4 winner and while he has slightly disappointed in his last two starts, he’s not been too far away and can be given another chance. Kim Young Kwan’s (5) DYNAMIC TANK was 4th on his two starts last summer and finally returns having looked sharp in a trial last weekend. (11) HWANHUIUI BYEOL went too fast too early on his first try at this class last month but back at 1200M today, can go better.

Selections (6) Nuri Bulpae (5) Dynamic Tank (4) Hoppang (7) Gyerimui Jilju
Next Best 11, 8, 12, 2
Outsiders 1, 3, 9, 10
Fast Starters 4, 5, 11

Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 17:20 (KST)

Another competitive race with a couple of standouts. Gyeongbudaero’s half-brother (2) WONIL ROOKIE has won twice in three starts since returning from eight months and will look to lead from gate to wire here. He has every chance. The main danger is (5) MAGIC LINE, 2nd on his first try at this class last month and nicely in here. (1) SINSEGYE also comes in following a 2nd place last start and should be close again while (7) CHEONHA TONGIL and the up in class (9) KKEUTPAN JILJU are others to look out for.

Selections (2) Wonil Rookie (5) Magic Line (1) Sinsegye (7) Cheonha Tongil
Next Best 9, 10
Outsiders 3, 4, 6, 8
Fast Starters 2, 7, 10

Race 8: Class 3 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 17:00 (KST)

(3) SANGSEUNG JUNIOR was 3rd on his return from almost nine months out two weeks ago and back up to a mile today, he looks the one to beat. (9) SINCHEON YEOMANG has beaten plenty of these recently and should improve on back to back third-place finishes. His recent form is similar to that of (7) JANGGUNBONG, who will look to lead from the gate and should also be competitive. (4) GLOBAL KING and (6) KKEUTPANNYEOWANG are the others to consider.

Selections (3) Sangseung Junior (9) Sincheon Yeomang (7) Janggungbong (4) Global King
Next Best 6, 1
Outsiders 2, 5, 8
Fast Starters 4, 6, 7

Race 9: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 18:30 (KST)

(5) SAENGIL GIPPEUM is up in class following three straight wins, the most recent being facile triumphs over this distance and he can make it four in a row here. He will try to make all. The main danger is (8) DONGBANG DAERO, who also won twice at this distance at class 3 and was 2nd on his first try at this level five weeks ago, beating (2) WILD BURNING and (9) GHOST BLONDE, both of whom themselves will be fancied to find at least the minor money. The other one to look out for is also up in class. That’s (4) MAIN STAY, just beaten a nose at this distance in a really quick race in March and who comes in fresh after two months off.

Selections (5) Saengil Gippeum (8) Dongbang Daero (4) Main Stay (2) Wild Burning
Next Best 9, 3, 7
Outsiders 1, 6, 10
Fast Starters 4, 5

Race 10: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 18:00 (KST)

Two stand out here and both are up in class. (4) FIRST MAGICAL was a ten-length winner on debut over 1200M last month and will be well-backed to make it two out of two here. He is one of a number who will look to lead from gate. (10) USEUNG LINE is the big danger. He has won two from three so far, last time at class and distance. Those two look significantly superior to the rest but if they are to disappoint then (5) ILLYUCHEON and (2) TARIAT TALE, 3rd and 4th at this class over a mile last time look the ones to take advantage. (3) WINNING HUMOR was beaten ten lengths by First Magical last time but also finds himself up in class today. He should beat a few.

Selections (4) First Magical (10) Useung Line (2) Tariat Tale (5) Illyucheon
Next Best 3, 7, 11, 9
Outsiders 1, 6, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 7, 9

Derby Sunday Race Notes

It’s one of the biggest days of racing of the year; Korean Derby day! There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 and 6 races at Busan from 13:00 to 17:30.

Yeongcheon Ace 2

Yeongcheon Ace won last year’s Derby (Pic: Ross Holburt)

English Racecards are available here. Full preview of the Derby here. Three races from Seoul, including the Derby, will be shown on Sky Racing 2 in Australia. Here are notes on them:

Race 7: Class 2 “The Sports Kyunghyang Cup” / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 15:05 (KST)

(5) BLACK TRAIN has a knack of finding one or two too quick but he is a strong finisher and is slightly favoured to come from off the early speed to claim what would be his first win since last August. (10) DORGON defeated both Black Train and (7) SIMSIN JIRYEO when the three of them met in February and should be respected, however, the main danger looks to be (8) JINGYEOGUI GEOJANG. Unlike many of these, he is still on the way up and while the Aussie bred colt struggled on his first try at 1800M last month, he should be much happier back in a one-turn race today. He’ll look to lead early. (2) ILGI DANGCHEON and (11) SEUNGNIYEOJE look best of the rest.

Selections (5) Black Train (8) Jingyeogui Geojang (7) Simsin Jiryeo (10) Dorgon
Next Best 2, 11, 3, 9
Outsiders 1, 4, 6, 12
Fast Starters 2, 6, 8

Race 8: Class 1 – “China Horse Industry Association Trophy” / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 15:55 (KST)

(10) LUCKY LIGHT beat five of these when running 2nd over this distance on April 3rd and he looks to be the one to beat here. He is a fast starter and will look to lead straight from the gate. Among those he beat last time, (7) CHEONMANG got the closest to him and that one can also be considered for improvement today, however, it’s likely to be (9) SEONBONG who punters consider the greater threat. His 2016 hasn’t really got going yet but he is a very solid sprinter and he can come from just behind the speed here. (12) BRIG has the outside gate to deal with but like Seonbong, will likely be content to avoid the cavalry charge to the corner and will still have plenty of backers. (5) MAGIC DANCER has perhaps seen better days but remains a threat.

Selections (10) Lucky Light (12) Brig (9) Seonbong (5) Magic Dancer
Next Best 7, 8, 2, 1, 3
Outsiders 4, 6, 11
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11

Race 9: Class Open – The Korean Derby / 1800M / Allowance / KRW 700 Million / 17:00 (KST)

SEE HERE FOR A FULL RUNNER BY RUNNER PREVIEW

(12) POWER BLADE won the 1st leg of the Triple Crown, the KRA Cup Mile, last month by a facile four-lengths and will be strong favourite to add the second jewel today. He has drawn gate 12 but that won’t matter as his style is to be away patiently and then improve in the back straight. On all form, he looks the best. It’s wide open behind though. (3) STEALTH and (4) ZETTABYTE ran 3rd and 4th in the Cup Mile with the former slightly favoured again at the extra distance today. (1) BANJIUI JEWANG ran poorly in the Cup Mile but performed well at Seoul in the Breeders’ Cup last year and can be given another chance. The biggest threat to Power Blade though may come from his own stablemate. (13) WORLD CHAMPION didn’t get to the Cup Mile but comes to Seoul after four consecutive victories, the most recent of which was a gate-to-wire romp at this distance. He’ll get forward early and the favourite will have to come past him. (9) GONGRYONG and (10) WINNERS GLORY look to be Seoul’s best chances while (7) EVER IN EVER and (14) TOHAMSAN look decent outside bets. Another longshot angle is that (6) SISEON POCHAK has been moved to a new trainer specifically so that he can take part in this race (trainers and owners may not enter any more than two horses in the same race – he was with Power Blade and World Champion).

Selections (12) Power Blade (13) World Champion (10) Winner’s Glory (1) Banjiui Jewang
Next Best 3, 9, 7, 4, 14, 6, 5
Outsiders 2, 8, 11, 15
Fast Starters 1, 10, 13, 14

Sunday Seoul & Busan Race By Race Preview

Grand Prix Stakes winner Bold Kings suffered his first defeat last time out but he is back today and will be the favourite for the feature race at Busan. Clean Up Joy, 3rd in the Grand Prix, is among the runners at Seoul while also in the capital. Aussie trainer Brian Dean saddles his first runner in Korea.

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Bold Kings & Clean Up Joy (1st and 3rd in the Grand Prix) race today

We have to wait until the very last race at Seoul to see Dean’s Jangsan Jewang take to the track under jockey Dean Holland. The gelding, who has won six of ten starts to date has a solid chance of placing and perhaps winning the 1200M class 2 race 11.

The simulcast will have gone off air by then but eleven races will be sent overseas today. English Race Cards are here while below are race by race notes:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

We’re going to go for Peter Wolsley’s debut-maker (12) VICAR HOPE to make an immediate impact here. Decent in trials, if she brings that to the track, she should have too much for these. (4) NAMYANG TOWER was a decent 4th on debut a month ago and can build on that today while the more experienced pair of (1) LUCKY JILJU and (10) STRONG MYEONGUN will also be dangerous. (9) HAEGA TTEUNDA disappointed as favourite last start but can be given another chance today.

Selections (12) Vicar Hope (1) Lucky Jilju (10) Strong Myeongun (9) Haega Tteunda
Next Best 4, 7, 11
Outsiders 2, 3, 5, 6, 8
Fast Starters 4, 9, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(6) GEUMGOKSEONG is up in class following his maiden win on her third start a month ago and while up in distance too, she will go forward from the gate and has claims here. She won’t be favourite though. (3) JOGUGUI DEUNGBUL could only manage sixth in what was a competitive race at class and distance at the end of March and should have better luck here while (8) GANGNAMGUL has come close in three races since returning from a spell and can go well once more. Those two will challenge Geumgokseong for the early lead. Others to look out for are (5) HAPPY FOREVER and (1) RECKLESS who can both improve on recent starts.

Selections (3) Jogugui Deungbul (8) Gangnamgul (6) Geumgokseong (1) Reckless
Next Best 5, 10, 7
Outsiders 2, 4, 9, 11
Fast Starters 3, 6, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:45 (KST)

All fillies or mares here. A full ten months after his debut, (2) CAPITAL GANGJA returned to make her second career start on April 15th and ran out a three-length winner over 1200M. She’s up in class here but should have too much for this field and should lead from gate to wire. Main danger could be (4) SEONGHO JEONGSANG. It took her twelve races to get off the mark but she did so last time out at class and distance and she’ll be competitive again. (1) WONIL ROSE, (9) SUNDAY ROYAL and (8) ILMANGMUJE, who finished 1st, 2nd and 3rd in a very similar race back in February are the other ones to look out for, along with (5) SAMDA GONGJU, who didn’t go well in that particular race but can perform on her day.

Selections (2) Capital Gangja (4) Seongho Jeongsang (8) Ilmangmuje (1) Wonil Rose
Next Best 5, 9, 7
Outsiders 3, 6
Fast Starters 2, 8, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(2) DANGCHAN YEOGEOL beat two of these when finishing 2nd in a narrow finish at class and distance on April 2nd and is slightly favoured to go one better today. Less than a length behind in that race was (3) SUPER ANGEL and she will be a strong challenger here. (11) YAHO MIRACLE is yet to win in eighteen but come in following a creditable 2nd place over 1400M last month and can be respected while champion jockey Moon Se Young taking the mount will cause some punters to consider (1) HAPJAKPUM for improvement. Racing for the first time this year, (5) JAJINARI is up in class while (4) ECTON GAYA is another who can go close.

Selections (2) Dangchan Yeogeol (3) Super Angel (5) Jajinari (1) Hapjakpum
Next Best 4, 11, 7
Outsiders 6, 8, 9, 10, 12
Fast Starters 2, 6, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 (KST)

Lightly-raced four-year-old (10) FURIOUS RUNNER looks the one to beat here. He was 3rd over 1400M last time out and will try to lead from gate to wire here with every chance of doing so. (2) MARUON was a long-shot class and distance winner last time but will struggle to repeat so that leaves (6) AMAZING DAEJI and (9) HOLY GANGTA as the most likely others to break their own maidens. (7) GANGJA BONSAEK and returning from a short spell, (8) PAMPAS FARM look next best.

Selections (10) Furious Runner (6) Amazing Daeji (9) Holy Gangta (8) Pampas Farm
Next Best 2, 7, 12, 1
Outsiders 3, 4, 5, 11
Fast Starters 6, 10

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 (KST)

(10) TOTAL WALKER has beaten a number of these in recent starts and following a career-best 2nd place over 1700M on April 2nd, looks ready to finally win at the tenth time of asking today. He will look to come from just behind the early seed which will likely be set by (1) KWAESOK POWER and (8) HWANGGEUM CHEONHA, both of whom have claims to stay on and compete. The experienced (2) INSUJAE was 2nd over 1200M last month and can go well again while (7) CUPID BOY and (9) SUPER JJANG are others to consider.

Selections (10) Total Walker (1) Kwaesok Power (8) Hwanggeum Cheonha (2) Insujae
Next Best 9, 7
Outsiders 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 8, 11, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:45 (KST)

(6) BINGO STAR was the winner of a weak race at class and distance on April 3rd. She won well and had two seconds before it but the form of (5) DONGHAE CHANGA, unbeaten until she came a narrow 3rd in a very good race at 1200M at the end of March is the more impressive and it is her who is the pick here. Yet to win after twenty-nine outings, (1) MAGIC QUEEN comes in following her third 2nd place finish and can come close – but will probably miss out on victory – again. (8) MIRACLE LOVER and (11) BRIAN are others who should be competitive. (9) SAEJAE SARANG is up in class following victory at this distance last month but will need to find plenty here.

Selections (5) Donghae Changa (6) Bingo Star (1) Magic Queen (11) Brian
Next Best 8, 4, 2, 9
Outsiders 3, 7, 10
Fast Starters 2, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 5: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 16:10 (KST)

Bart Rice’s stable was in good form on Friday and that can continue here with (3) TRIPLE FIVE, after a hat-trick of 2nd place finishes and having beaten three of these last start, the top pick to score here. (7) AJU CHOEGANG also beat three of these when running 2nd last start and is the main danger. Among the ones the pair beat, (4) YOU’RE HILARIOUS and (6) B.K. PHIL look to have the best chance of getting close today. (9) DANGDAE HWASIN could only manage 5th on her first try at this class last month but can be considered for improvement today.

Selections (3) Triple Five (7) Aju Choegang (9) Dangdae Hwasin (4) You’re Hilarious
Next Best 6, 12,
Outsiders 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, 11
Fast Starters 3, 6, 9, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:35 (KST)

The smallest field of the day but competitive enough with the up in class (3) BLUE GUARDIAN favourite to score here. He has won at the distance before and can lead gate to wire. (4) LAKWING beat (6) MIRACLE CHUKJE and an out of sorts (1) VALLEY STAR over 1800M on April 10th. All can go well here although we’ll look to Valley Star to show the greatest improvement. Despite her most recent three, which have all been in races that didn’t suit her, be it in terms of distance or competition, (7) PUREUN GEOTAP can be much better here.

Selections (3) Blue Guardian (1) Valley Star (7) Pureun Geotap (4) Lakwing
Next Best 6, 2
Outsiders 5
Fast Starters 2, 3, 6

Busan Race 6: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 17:00 (KST)

Last year’s Grand Prix Stakes winner (11) BOLD KINGS suffered his first ever defeat at the hands of Triple Nine over 2000M at the end of March but he can be backed to return to winning ways in Busan’s feature race. There is plenty of early speed here but even from the outside gate, he should get forward early and can dominate this race. The up and coming (2) TONGIL SIDAE, who has won his last three, looks very dangerous while (1) DYNAMIC DASH beat three of these when winning at class and distance last month and must be respected. Also a class 1 winner just two weeks ago was Bold Kings’ stablemate (5) GOLIATH MARINE and he too can go well. Others to consider for the money are (3) BATHSHEBA PARK and (7) NOBODY CATCH ME, both beaten by Dynamic Dash last time.

Selections (11) Bold Kings (5) Goliath Marine (2) Tongil Sidae (1) Dynamic Dash
Next Best 3, 7, 4
Outsiders 6, 8, 9, 10
Fast Starters 1, 2, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 10: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:30 (KST)

3rd to Bold Kings in the Grand Prix last December, (9) CLEAN UP JOY has won twice since at 1800M and at 1200M and is strongly favoured to strike once more today in what is Seoul’s feature race. (10) SAMJEONG JEGUK was beaten by (2) SPACE PORT in January, the latter going on to win again last month and both should be competitive here. (4) HWANGGEUM TAP and (6) BICHUI WANGJA look to be the others in with a chance.

Selections (9) Clean Up Joy (10) Samjeong Jeguk (2) Space Port (6) Bichui Wangja
Next Best 4, 3, 7
Outsiders 1, 5, 8
Fast Starters 3, 4, 7

Busan Friday: Race By Race Preview

It’s the long holiday weekend in Korea – an unexpected one too as Friday was only officially designated a holiday last week! No rest for the races though with a ten-race card at Busan starting at 12:40pm.

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There was no racing on Thursday at Seoul but the track nevertheless was a popular “Childrens’ Day” destination

There is racing at Busan on Sunday as well with Seoul hosting cards on both Saturday and Sunday.  See here for English race cards. Notes on Friday’s Busan races 2-10 as below:

Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(7) CHOEGANG ADVENTURE was 2nd when odds-on favourite for his second career start on April 8th. He led from gate to wire but got overtaken by a fast finisher in the closing stages. Kim Yong Geun, who rode that winner, takes the mount on Choegang Adventure today and we will expect him to not get caught this time. (5) MAJOR SUN hasn’t pushed on after a promising debut in January but looks the main danger. He was beaten by (10) SEONGGONG PLAN last start and that one too can find the minor money. (2) EUNGDAPARA is the best of a limited rest

Selections (7) Choegang Adventure (5) Major Sun (2) Eungdapara (10) Seonggong Plan
Next Best 6, 9
Outsiders 1, 3, 4, 8
Fast Starters 7, 10

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(9) YEONGGWANGUI CAMP was a much improved 2nd on what was just his second start on March 18th and is the slight favourite to score here. He beat (1) DANCER by four lengths that day and that one, having put in a decent run since, is to be considered the main danger again. (2) DORAON GASOKDO also showed considerable improvement last time and can go well with (4) GAMSEONG POKBAL and (6) JEONSEOLUI LEGEND the others to look out for.

Selections (9) Yeonggwangui Camp (1) Dancer (2) Doraon Gasoko (4) Gamseong Pokbal
Next Best 6, 3,
Outsiders 5, 7, 8
Fast Starters 1, 9

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:00 (KST)

(10) BEOLMAUI SIN was beaten four-lengths into second over 1200M a month ago but should have come on for that and can get his maiden win here. The Kim Young Kwan-trained (6) BLACK SAPPHIRE registered a solid 4th on debut on April 3rd and can also improve while (12) PYGMY beat three of her rivals here when racing 2nd in weak company last time and can find the money again. (5) WINNING GILI comes in fresh and can at least match the two 3rd places she has already achieved while (11) KWAEHAN EUTTEUM beat (1) YEONGUNG CHULGYEOK over this distance just two weeks ago and those two look to be the others to take into account.

Selections  (10) Beolmaui Sin (6) Black Sapphire (5) Winning Gili (12) Pygmy
Next Best 1, 11, 4, 3
Outsiders 2, 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 6, 10, 12

Race 5: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:50 (KST)

With three 2nd places and a 3rd from her last four starts, Bart Rice’s (3) LOAD CELL looks ready to win and should claim this. She will go forward early and shouldn’t be beaten. There are rivals here with winning experience though. (11) OH MY CAPTAIN is up in class having made the breakthrough on his seventh start a month ago and can go well while (8) DAEHO GANGJA and (10) MYSTIC PARK can improve on slightly lacklustre performances last time. Racing for the first time this year is (7) GLOBAL KOREA. He showed plenty of promise in four starts last term and is the wildcard here. He was average in trials.

Selections (3) Load Cell (11) Oh My Captain (8) Daeho Gangja (7) Global Korea
Next Best 10, 2, 4, 1
Outsiders 5, 6, 9, 12
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3

Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:40 (KST)

(10) BLACK TETRA gave herself too much to do when sent off the even-money favourite at this distance three weeks ago. She made it up to 4th that day and given more of a chance today, she can win this. Also capable is (8) MINE. She was 2nd over 1400M last time out and is more than capable of a repeat. The much more experienced (3) SORICHYEO is a capable money winner at this level and can at least match his 3rd place of two weeks ago while (2) FOREVER VICTORY is yet to win in nine outings but in this company can be aiming for the money. (1) POWER CHAMP returned from six months out to get his maiden win on April 8th and while up in class here, can also be considered.

Selections (10) Black Tetra (8) Mine (3) Sorichyeo (1) Power Champ
Next Best 2, 9, 7
Outsiders 4, 5, 6, 11
Fast Starters 6, 9

Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 17:20 (KST)

Open contest this but (11) HAEUNDAE GISANG comes in looking for a hat-trick of wins and is the slight pick to do just that. She beat two of these last time at 1300M and can come from just off any early pace to strike again. (4) KKEUTPAN DAEJANG keeps threatening to add to his two wins and enters here after back to back 2nd places while (5) BYEOLMURI is up in class having won a decent class 5 race at 1300M on April 10th. Both are dangers as is (12) MUHAN SPEED. (8) JAYU DAERO has been beaten by both Haeundae Gisang and Kkeutpan Daejang recently but should himself beat plenty of the rest of these.

Selections (11) Haeundae Gisang (5) Byeolmuri (4) Kkeutpan Daejang (8) Jayu Daero
Next Best 12, 7, 3, 1, 2
Outsiders 6, 9, 10
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 9

Race 8: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:00 (KST)

(10) BADA STAR beat four of these when running 2nd over 1300M four weeks ago. That was just his second start with his debut having been all the way back last June and he can have come on for it and can win here. (3) ARION METAL was 3rd that day, a length behind and can challenge once more while (8) GLORY DAYS beat (4) USEUNG BEONJJEOK as the pair raced 3rd and 5th over 1200M three weeks ago and both should be competitive here. Bart Rice’s debut-maker (11) WONIL BULPAE could well provide the stiffest test though, having looked very sharp in his trial.

Selections (10) Bada Star (11) Wonil Bulpae (3) Arion Metal (8) Glory Days
Next Best 4, 6, 2
Outsiders 1, 5, 7, 9
Fast Starters 8

Race 9: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 18:30 (KST)

(7) OTTUG OTTUGI was 2nd in the KRA Cup Mile, the first leg of the Triple Crown, a month ago but misses out on the Derby with her stable opting to end two others. Instead she tries 1800M for the first time here and will be strong favourite to lead from gate to wire. The distance is perhaps the one thing that can beat her and if it does then (5) JUNGANG DAEHAE and (2) WONDERFUL TODAY, who raced 2nd and 4th at this distance on April 1st look best placed to take advantage. (1) BADA GANGJA and (4) FURIOUS PARK are next best.

Selections (7) Ottug Ottugi (5) Jungang Daehae (2) Wonderful Today (1) Bada Gangja
Next Best 4, 9, 3
Outsiders 6, 8
Fast Starters 3, 7, 9

Race 10: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 19:00 (KST)

(1) SEORABEOL GONGJU has finished no worse than 3rd in each of her last seven outings, winning two of them and can maintain that solid form today. She’s the favourite here. (4) SANGSEUNG JUNIOR returns to action for the first time since last August. He won three of his fist seven starts and looked sharp enough in a trail last week to merit serious consideration here. (7) SMART GENTLEMAN was out of his depth in the KRA Cup Mile last month but got to within a head of Seorabeol Gongju over 1200M in March and can go close once more. (3) SEUNGNI WAVE races for the first time since last September and can be a danger.

Selections (1) Seorabeol Gongju (4) Sangseung Junior (7) Smart Gentleman (3) Seungni Wave
Next Best 5, 10
Outsiders 2, 6, 8, 9
Fast Starters 2, 7

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a ten-race card from 12:40 to 19:00. There will be racing in Seoul on Saturday and then at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday.

Click here for English race cards. Italian jockey Paolo Aragoni makes his debut in race 2. Here are notes on races 2-10:

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(6) GIFTED SUN has shown improvement in each of three starts to date culminating in a 2nd place last time on March 25thand he is strongly favoured to score here. He should have too much for this field but (4) DANGCHAN JILJU will challenge him for the lead early and can stay on well. (11) BAEDARI GOSU was an encouraging 5th on debut earlier this month and should build on that today while (8) B.K. ONE, 2nd in a weak race at this distance in March, and (9) KWAEDO YEOGEOL, who improved on her second start three weeks ago, are the others to consider.

Selections (6) Gifted Sun (4) Dangchan Jilju (9) Kwaedo Yeogeol (11) Baedari Gosu
Next Best 8, 1, 10
Outsiders 2, 3, 5, 7, 12
Fast Starters 4, 6

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(4) CAPE MAGIC beat three of these when finishing 2nd at this distance on April 1st and needs to be respected here accordingly. However, it wasn’t a strong race so we therefore may find ourselves tempted instead by (8) KWAEHAN YEONGUNG, who also comes in following a 2nd place last time but in stiffer company and on what was just his third career start. He started slowly that day but expect him to go forward much earlier this time and he has a solid chance. (3) GORYEOUI KKUM has shown promise with a 2nd and a 4th in two starts to date and can go well here. (12) BANJIUI YEOJEONSA was sent back to trial after a poor outing when well-backed in February. She flew through that trial at the beginning of this month and can’t be ruled out. (7) NOBLE WARRIOR, who seems to be getting some momentum going, is the other one to look out for.

Selections (8) Kwaehan Yeongung (4) Cape Magic (7) Noble Warrior (12) Banjiui Yeojeonsa
Next Best 3, 11 , 9, 1, 2
Outsiders 5, 6, 10
Fast Starters 2, 8, 12

Race 4: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:00 (KST)

(4) DAMNYANG JANGGUN was a seven-length winner of a class 6 race over this distance in February. Stepped up to 1400M for his first try at this class a month ago he was sent off as favourite but could only manage 3rd. Back at 1200M today though he is going to be very tough to beat and will be the strong favourite. If he is to be stopped (5) KWAEHAN MYEONGPUM may be best placed. She beat a couple of these when running 3rd on April 1st, continuing a string of solid recent results. (8) GUMPO DIVA races for the first time this year and in this company should be able to pick up where she left off from in the autumn. It’s pretty thin behind those with (6) COOL RUN and (7) GANGJA DAERO perhaps the best.

Selections (4) Damnyang Janggun (5) Kwaehan Myeongpum (8) Gumpo Diva (6) Cool Run
Next Best 7, 2, 9
Outsiders 1, 3, 10
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:50 (KST)

(6) EOROK is up in class having landed her maiden win at the ninth attempt on March 25th. It was at this distance and there is no reason why she shouldn’t be able to cope with this level. She can go close. (5) UNFLAGGING HEART beat two of these when 2nd on April 8th and will look to get off to a fast start here and can go close while (3) CLEAN CHOEGANG has a 2nd and two 3rds among his last four outings and should be involved again. (2) YUSEONG STAR beat Unflagging Heart over 1200M in March and while slightly disappointing last start can be given another chance here. (9) SAEBYEOK STAR looks the other one to consider.

Selections (5) Unflagging Heart (6) Eorok (3) Clean Choegang (2) Yuseong Star
Next Best 9, 12, 11, 4
Outsiders 1, 7, 8, 10
Fast Starters 2, 5, 9, 12

Race 6: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 16:40 (KST)

Quite an open contest this but we’ll go with (13) GOLD SKY, 2nd at class and distance on April 3rd to go one better here. It often pays to follow Korean breds in this type of race at this time of year and that could be the case again today. Less than a length behind Gold Sky in that April 3rd race was (9) KWAESOK BARAM and he should come close again today. (5) SEUNGNI UNCLE MO is a class and distance winner already and will look to go forward early here as will (11) GREAT SONG, who did ok on his debut at the end of March behind Seungni Uncle Mo and should have come on for it. (1) BUGYEONG CHAMP was a solid 3rd last start and can match that today.

Selections (13) Gold Sky (5) Seungni Uncle Mo (9) Kwaeseok Baram (11) Great Song
Next Best 1, 10, 14, 4,
Outsiders 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 12
Fast Starters 5, 9, 11

Race 7: Class 5 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:20 (KST)

Three starts and three 2nd place finishes so far for (1) BLUE CAT, each time behind decent ones including Damnyang Janggun, who we saw earlier in race 4. She will lead early here and this is surely her best chance to make the breakthrough. (5) GARAK GONGWON beat (10) DOCHI last time out and those two look most likely to challenge the favourite while the up in class (7) SMART MARINE is capable of at least repeating the 3rd place he has scored in both his last two outings. Also up in class is (4) CHOEGANG EXCELLENT, having won at odds in excess of 100/1 on March 25th. He will struggle to repeat that today but does need to be afforded a bit more respect.

Selections (1) Blue Cat (10) Dochi (5) Garak Gongwon (7) Smart Marine
Next Best 4, 6
Outsiders 2, 3, 8, 9
Fast Starters 1, 9

Race 8: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 18:00 (KST)

It could be a quick double for Bart Rice here as (2) FOR MY SIS looks the slight pick of these. She beat (10) SEUNGNI GRAND when finishing 3rd at class and distance on April 3rd and has nothing to fear in this field. She will likely try to come from just off a pace that will probably be set by (4) TURBO ENERGY, up in class following his second win in four starts and also a contender here. (5) YEONSEUNG JILJU, disappointing at 1400M last month, will also go forward and has much better claims at this distance. Never a winner but a perennial placer, (11) YEONGGWANGUICHUBOK can place yet again, while (1) B.K. KING and (8) BAEDARI BOBAE are others to look out for.

Selections (2) For My Sis (5) Yeonseung Jilju (4) Turbo Energy (11) Yeonggwanguichubok
Next Best 8, 1, 10
Outsiders 3, 6, 7, 9
Fast Starters 4, 5, 8

Race 9: Class 3 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 18:30 (KST)

Small field here and following on from a 2nd place at class and distance on April 8th, (1) GOSOK JILJU is favourite to land this one. That performance was much improved on his other recent starts and he can keep the momentum going here. (5) REALLY KING beat (8) JUNGANGUI JANGSU and (4) CHEONJI HERO at his distance in February but hasn’t raced since. (6) GLOBAL KING didn’t go well at 1200M last start but should be more comfortable today. (7) USEUNGIJI has struggled in his last two outings but should go right back here and the race could set itself up quite nicely for him. He has a chance.

Selections (1) Gosok Jilju (6) Global King (5) Really King (7) Useungiji
Next Best 8, 4
Outsiders 2, 3
Fast Starters 2, 6, 8

Race 10: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 19:00 (KST)

(8) EVANGELINE is up in class following her fifth win in eight starts at the start of this month. It was at this distance and she still looks to have plenty of potential for development which can begin with victory here. (1) SUPREME MAGIC finished off her three-year-old campaign with a pair of victories last autumn but hasn’t raced since. She looked sharp though in a trial earlier this month and should be considered as one of the main dangers to the favourite here. Other dangers include (12) JIBONG SARANG and (2) YUSEONG FIGHTING, both proven winners at this class with the former slightly favoured here while the latter will almost certainly set the early pace. (6) ACE CHEONBOK was one of four of these beaten by (11) CHOEGANG BULPAE at class and distance at the end of March but is another with potential for improvement. (4) FRENCH BOY was another of those beaten that day. He may just have found his level at class 2 after winning five of his first eight but he can’t be ruled out just yet.

Selections (8) Evangeline (12) Jibong Sarang (1) Supreme Magic (2) Yuseong Fighting
Next Best 6, 4, 11, 9
Outsiders 3, 5, 7, 10
Fast Starters 2, 3, 4

Four Foreign Jockeys Newly Licensed In Korea

Four foreign jockeys have recently been licensed in Korea. Japan’s Yonekura Satoshi began riding at Busan on Friday and is about to be joined on the south-coast by Italian Paolo Aragoni. Meanwhile at Seoul, India’s Imran Chisty and Australian Patrick Keane have arrived in the capital and are set to start as soon as possible.

Aragoni

Paolo Aragoni is set to join Busan (Pic: Supplied by jockey)

35-year-old Paolo Aragoni debuted in Italy in 1997 and has ridden seven Group 3 and numerous Listed race winners in his home country among more than 700 career winners overall. His riding weight is 53kg.

Yonekura Satoshi has been riding in Japan’s NAR since 1994, most recently based at Kanazawa Racecourse. The 40-year-old jockey has partnered over 1300 winners throughout his career and has a riding weight of 51kg.

Imran Chisty turned professional in 1997. The 39-year-old Indian rider has mainly been at the Bangalore Turf Club where over the past three years he has 216 winners while achieving a Moon Se Young-esque quinella strike-rate of 33%.He can ride at 50kg.

The youngest of the newcomers is up and coming Australian jockey Patrick Keane. Based in Victoria, 23-year-old Kean has a quinella strike rate of 15.3% over the last three years on the ultra-competitive circuit there.

Aragoni and Satoshi join Makoto Okabe, Ikuyasu Kurakane and Pasquale Borelli at Busan taking the foreign jockey contingent on the south-coast up to five following Nozi Tomizawa’s departure last month.  Chisty and Kean’s addition at Seoul mean there are now four foreign jockeys in the capital, Djordje Perovic and Dean Holland being the others.

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview

It’s Friday so it’s Busan! Ten races at the south coast track with the first getting underway at 12:40 and the last at 19:00.

Click here for English racecards and see below for notes on races 2 to 10:

Race 2: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(8) MACH BOLT was an improved – and still unfancied – 2nd when she beat (3) HAPPY JILJU over this distance last month and she is one of a number with claims here. (5) SMART MARINE has come close in both his last two starts and will be well-supported. (9) EUNGNIBYEOSU finished 4th behind him last time and that one too has claims to improve. Another improver is (1) DAEJIUI HUIMANG, a solid 4th last time and can keep the momentum going today.

Selections: (8) Mach Bolt (5) Smart Marine (1) Daejiui Huimang (3) Happy Jilju
Next Best: 9, 10
Outsiders: 2, 4, 6, 7
Fast Starters: 3, 10

Race 3: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(6) CAPITAL GANGJA raced once, all the way back last June and did well, finishing 2nd at 1400M. She’s not been seen since but comes back here as a four-year-old having looked sharp in a barrier trial earlier this month and she should have too much for this modest field. Main danger looks to be (5) CHEONJI CHAMP, who has a couple of 5th place finishes among three starts to date and should improve while (3) LUCKY JILJU has been one-paced but can have enough to find the money. (2) KING CODE and (9) BEST CHEONGCHUN are others to consider.

Selections: (6) Capital Gangja (5) Cheonji Champ (3) Lucky Jilju (9) Best Cheongchun
Next Best: 2, 7
Outsiders: 1, 4, 8, 10, 11
Fast Starters: 6, 7, 8

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:00 (KST)

Another bunch of maidens here and it’s (5) SMART KING who looks best place to emerge the winner here. He will likely go forward from the gate and has every chance of making all. Last time, Smart King beat (7) RAON BENTREE by just under a length and that one can challenge again today. Main danger looks to be (3) FERNANDO, who has a best of 2nd from four starts to date and should have a win in him at some point. (1) OLYMPIA QUEEN and (6) GODAE are the other capable ones here.

Selections: (5) Smart King (3) Fernando (7) Raon Bentree (1) Olympia Queen
Next Best: 6
Outsiders: 2, 4, 8
Fast Starters: 5

Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:50 (KST)

A winner on debut in February and then 3rd, albeit a long way behind a good winner, on her first try at this class a month ago, (2) BLACK TETRA is the obvious pick to score here. She will try to come from just off the pace which is likely to be set by (9) YEONGGWANGUISINHWA. She was 5th in a tight finish in what was her first try at the level on April 1st having led for much of the way and can go well here. (11) IMPASSIONED MARINE has found one too quick on both her last two starts but should be close by again today while (1) RUN STAR and (4) KKEUTPAN JILJU – who was beaten by Black Tetra last start – are others who can challenge for the money.

Selections: (2) Black Tetra (9) Yeonggwanguisinhwa (11) Impassioned Marine (1) Run Star
Next Best: 4, 10, 5
Outsiders: 3, 6, 7, 8, 12
Fast Starters: 9

Race 6: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 16:40 (KST)

A couple step up in class here after maiden victories last time out. (12) SEUNGNIUI CHUKJE was an eye-catching eleven-length winner at 1000M on March 18th and must be considered although equally eye-catching is the decision to put him up to 1600M so soon which is unusual here. Should go well. (11) SPECIAL ROOKIE is from Busan’s top stable and got her maiden win by a length last start at 1300M having made all. She’ll go forward again although she will find it tougher to stay on here. Favourite may end up being (7) SANTA GLORIA, 3rd in an Oaks Trial in March and then beaten into 4th when favourite at this distance last time. She’ll go forward and can go better here. (1) THE STARS beat Santa Gloria last time and should be considered while (10) MAYA COUNTRY was a solid 2nd at 1400M last month and should appreciate this distance. (6) FOUR STAR and (9) EUNHA, an unlikely winner last time out, may also come into consideration in what is a competitive race.

Selections: (12) Seungniui Chukje (7) Santa Gloria (11) Special Rookie (10) Maya Country
Next Best: 6, 1, 9, 8, 2
Outsiders: 3, 4, 5
Fast Starters: 7, 11, 12

Race 7: Class 4 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 17:20 (KST)

No world-beaters here so we’ll look to the two who have winning experience. They are the Korean-bred pair of (4) GIMAKIN JILJU and (10) GANGHAN NAMJA, with the former slightly favoured to strike having finished ahead when they raced each other early last month. Among the imports, (2) CINNADAR, 4th in a similar race last start which was won by big outsiders, looks the best although (5) OHHWAMA and (8) TAMNA JEONGBEOL are also worthy of consideration.

Selections: (4) Gimakin Jilju (10) Ganghan Namja (2) Cinnadar (5) Ohhwama
Next Best: 8, 7, 12, 11
Outsiders: 1, 3, 6, 9,
Fast Starters: 2, 7, 11

Race 8: Class 3 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 18:00 (KST)

A winner at this class over a mile at the end of February, (8) BUHWARUI BANSEOK is up to 1800M for his third career start and there’s no reason why he can’t make it a hat-trick of wins today. Also on a hat-trick is (2) SAENGIL GIPPEUM and he beat five of these when winning at class and distance three weeks ago. He made all that day and will try similar today. Favourite in that race was (3) MIRACLE IJI who just gave himself a little bit too much to do but should be more alert today. (11) BADA DOSI is yet to win in nine outings but has been 2nd on four occasions and can come close once more while (1) RISING CAPTAIN and (6) NOBEL SINHWA are the others to look out for.

Selections: (8) Buhwarui Banseok (2) Saengil Gippeum (3) Miracle Iji (11) Bada Dosi
Next Best: 6, 12, 1, 9
Outsiders: 4, 5, 7, 10
Fast Starters: 2

Race 9: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 18:30 (KST)

Small field but at least three of them have solid winning claims. (3) DONGBANG DAERO is up in class following back to back victories at this distance and needs plenty of respect while (1) DIFERENT DIMENSION was narrowly beaten by a couple of these last month but can be backed to overturn that form today. (5) YEONGCEHON ACE won the Korean Derby last May but hasn’t really pushed on and hasn’t actually won a race since. Nevertheless, he was a close 2nd last time and comes back in here fresh after three months out. Those three should be the ones involved at the business end of the race although (6) WILD BURNING and (7) GHOST BLONDE can’t be completely ruled out.

Selections: (1) Diferent Dimension (5) Yeongcheon Ace (3) Dongbang Daero (6) Wild Burning
Next Best: 7, 2, 4
Outsiders:
Fast Starters: 2

Race 10: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 19:00 (KST)

(2) GLORY DAYS was 2nd, coming back from six months off at the end of February at the minimum distance and looks an interesting proposition here. The rest of the fancied ones raced each other at class and distance on March 18th. Unexpectedly, (8) WINNING NUMBER was the best of them that day but (3) NURI BULPAE and (4) WONIL ROOKIE both look better best today. As does (1) POKPING SINHWA. She faded badly in that March 18th race but is likely to get an uncontested lead here and can stay on better.

Selections: (3) Nuri Bulpae (2) Glory Days (1) Pokpung Sinhwa (4) Wonil Rookie
Next Best: 8, 6, 9
Outsiders: 5, 7
Fast Starters: 1