Busan

Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (July 3)

It’s Busan Mayor’s Cup day at Seoul. Full preview of one of the biggest races of summer is here. There is plenty going on. Seoul has 10 races from 10:50 to 18:00 while Busan runs 6 from 13:00 to 17:30.

English racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races below:

Busan Race 1: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 13:00 (KST)

With two wins from six (5) HUIMANG QUEEN beat three of her rivals here when finishing 3rd at class and distance a month ago and should have too much for this limited opposition. (9) BIO BLUE returns for the first time since last November and if he is anything like his former self, he will be the main danger. The experienced pair of (6) JOINER CAPTAIN and (7) DAEHOYEOJANGGUN are capable of winning money at this level while (8) AUCKLAND TEUKGEUP, disappointing behind Huimang Queen last start, looks best of the rest.

Selections (5) Huimang Queen (9) Bio Blue (6) Joiner Captain (7) Daehoyeojanggun
Next Best 8, 1, 4
Outsiders 2, 3, 10
Fast Starters 3, 5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(1) WORLD MARK could only manage 7th when well supported for her first try at class 5 and at 1300M last start. That game off the back of a decent win at 1000M in May and back at the minimum today, she looks hard to beat in this all-filly affair. Similarly poor on stepping up in distance was (8) PEARL QUEEN and she should also be a different prospect back at this distance today. (5) BALGEUN NAEIL is yet to win in seventeen attempts but is capable of placing here following a decent 3rd last start while (7) HAENURI and (9) FRENCH KING are others to look out for. The returning (4) BEST SHOOTER didn’t impress in trials.

Selections (1) World Mark (8) Pearl Queen (7) Haenuri (5) Balgeun Naeil
Next Best 4, 9, 6, 2
Outsiders 3, 10
Fast Starters 1, 5, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:50 (KST)

10) ACE MAN debuted almost a year ago, finishing 2nd behind a filly who went on to win this year’s Korean Oaks. He suffered a fracture after that but has made a full recovery and looked good when trialling last month. He’s favourite. The rest look a bit average. You can’t ignore Kim Young Kwan trained debut-makers so (1) JERAJIN, who really showed very little in trials, will have backers. (2) JEOKDOUI HWASIN hasn’t exactly impressed in six prior outings but can improve here with (6) DYNAMIC DIVA and (7) SAMHYEONGJE in a similar situation. (9) OFFICER LADY was highly thought-of a year ago but hasn’t been seen since and looked indifferent in trials.

Selections (10) Ace Man (1) Jerajin (6) Dynamic Diva (2) Jeokdoui Hwasin
Next Best 4, 7, 5
Outsiders 3, 8, 9
Fast Starters 4, 6, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:15 (KST)

Second last time out at the end of May, his best finish in ten outings to date and first under champion jockey Moon Se Young, who takes the mount again today, (6) WANGUI DAERO is the pick to get it right this time. (10) NICE AND GOOD beat (9) SUPER JJANG but they both underperformed when racing against each other on June 4th. We’ll expect better from both today with the latter slightly favoured. (1) HEART STORM and Brian Dean’s (4) SUPREME LEADER the best of the rest.

Selections (6) Wangui Daero (9) Super Jjang (10) Nice And Good (4) Supreme Leader
Next Best 1, 7
Outsiders 2, 3, 5, 8
Fast Starters 1, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:40 (KST)

(7) CHALLANHAN ACE will be favourite here having secured her maiden win at the fourth time of asking over 1300M in March. She’s had three months off since and can lead from gate to wire. If she is to be stopped (11) GOLD SUN could be the most likely following a promising 3rd at this distance on June 3rd, which suggested she may have a win in her at this level at some stage. (9) LOVE QUEEN is another one who should be on pace and can come close with (1) WORLD FLASH and (12) MUJEOK CHEONHA others to consider, at least for the places.

Selections (7) Challanhan Ace (11) Gold Sun (9) Love Queen (1) World Flash
Next Best 3, 10, 12, 6
Outsiders 2, 4, 5, 8
Fast Starters 1, 2, 6, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:05 (KST)

Another one up in class can be made favourite here with (5) SEONGUN MARU coming in after back to back victories. He is up in class today but that’s no real cause for concern and three in a row is highly possible. (9) DOUBLE J beat (2) NONEUN ACE when the pair raced 2nd and 3rd at class and distance on May 28th. They look to be the main dangers here with Double J favoured once more. Among the rest, (3) SUBAEKYANG and (6) SSONSALGACHI look best placed to improve on recent outings.

Selections (5) Seongun Maru (9) Double J (2) Noneun Ace (3) Subaekyang
Next Best 6, 7
Outsiders 1, 4, 8, 10
Fast Starters 2, 5

Busan Race 4: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:30 (KST)

Thomas Gillespie’s (6) HANEOLUI JILJU was 4th on his first try at this class three weeks ago having won his previous two. If he gets to the front from the gate – and he should – he’ll be difficult to beat and he’s the pick here. Japanese import (10) WHITE CASTLE showed much improvement last start when running 2nd at 1000M, coming from well off the pace and can go well once more while (2) SUPER EAGLE was 8th on debut at the end of May and with a top jockey booking can also improve. (1) YONGGAM MUSSANG and (3) MISS HERO the best of the rest.

Selections (6) Haneolui Jilju (10) White Castle (2) Super Eagle (1) Yonggam Mussang
Next Best 3, 5
Outsiders 4, 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 2, 6

Seoul Race 8: Class 5 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 (KST)

Competitive event this one. (8) HAPPY SENSATION is the slight pick having been 2nd at this class over 1300M last time. She steps up to two turns for the first time and looks an interesting prospect. She probably won’t be favourite though as that will be (5) JISANG BIHAENG. He is yet to win in nine outings but has four 2nd places to his name including one at this distance. Another yet to win in (7) YAHO MIRACLE but he has proved himself capable of placing at this level and can do so again. (2) SPASTAR likewise can beat plenty at this level and can be considered with (4) STRONG SHINE looking the best of the rest.

Selections (8) Happy Sensation (5) Jisang Bihaeng (4) Strong Shine (2) Spastar
Next Best 7, 9, 4
Outsiders 1, 3, 6
Fast Starters 5, 8

Busan Race 5: Class Open – The Busan Mayor’s Cup (KOR GIII) / 1800M / Weight for Age / KRW 500 Million / 16:30 (SIN)

The most prestigious race of summer at Busan has drawn a top class field from both tracks. (8) TRIPLE NINE went down to a shock defeat in May but can be favoured to put things right today. He’ll look to settle just behind the early speed and if he runs to his best, he can win here. (5) CLEAN UP JOY is widely recognised as Seoul’s best horse. He was 3rd in the Grand Prix Stakes last December and has won all three starts this year. Winner of that Grand Prix was (16) BOLD KINGS. He has been beaten by Triple Nine and by (13) DYNAMIC DASH in two subsequent starts and does have to overcome gate 16 but he should still come close. (2) GAMDONGUIBADA won this race last year (when it was run at a mile) and beat plenty of these in a big sprint race in May, must be respected at any distance and will have plenty of supporters. (10) SUCCESS STORY landed two 3rd places at the Dubai World Cup Carnival earlier this year and while he could only manage 3rd to Gamdonguibada in that sprint, if he gets to the front early – which he failed to do that day – he will be tough to overtake. Last year’s champion mare (3) HEBA, (7) BEOLMAUI KKUM and (14) GUMPO SKY are among others to consider in what is a very competitive race.

Selections (8) Triple Nine (5) Clean Up Joy (2) Gamdonguibada (16) Bold Kings
Next Best 10, 7, 14, 13, 15, 1, 11, 3
Outsiders 4, 6, 9, 12
Fast Starters 7, 10, 14

Seoul Race 9: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:00 (KST)

Having won two of his last three and beaten a number of these along the way, (2) LUCKY LIGHT is the one to beat here. He’s a front-runner and at this distance he should make all. It’s hard to oppose the favourite but if we are looking for an upset, (5) BEST GUY, a class and distance winner at the end of May could be best placed to provide it. He beat (1) STRONG ROAD in the process and that one can look to improve today. (8) SINGYU GANGJA beat (4) DIPLOMATIC MISSION when they finished 3rd and 5th at class and distance on May 21st and both can come close again.

Selections (2) Lucky Light (5) Best Guy (4) Diplomatic Mission (8) Singyu Gangja
Next Best 1, 11, 7, 10
Outsiders 3, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 4, 9

Busan Race 6: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 17:30 (KST)

(12) I ONE has won, twice, in two starts so far and was utterly dominant over 1300M at the end of May, beating (8) MABEE FLASHY by seven lengths. Up in class and slightly in distance today but he’s a good prospect and he should be winning this. Five of these faced each other at this distance on June 5th and (4) NAGASINDA rather unexpectedly came out on top among them, finishing 2nd. As a result, he must be respected today although (2) AJU CHOEGANG and (5) YOU’RE HILARIOUS, who finished in 3rd and 5th respectively that day, will be favoured to overturn that form here. (7) DYNAMIC TANK struggled at a mile last start but should be more comfortable today as should (11) SOUL BLADE.

Selections (12) I One (2) Aju Choegang (5) You’re Hilarious (7) Dynamic Tank
Next Best 4, 11, 8, 10
Outsiders 1, 3, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 7, 9

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00 (KST)

It took (4) CHOEGANGJA a couple of races to figure out what to do but this Silver Train colt has been developing very nicely, winning at 1200M in May and was then 3rd on his first try at this class on June 12th. He can win here.  Main danger looks to be (8) GAENARI who returned from a six-month layoff to score her maiden win in a very quick race over 1000M in May and she can be considered here too. (6) SKY JEWANG and (7) POWER BISEUL are both also up in class following victories and the latter looks best equipped to handle this level right away. (2) JEONMUHUMU, already a winner at this class is also capable of going well.

Selections (4) Choegangja (8) Gaenari (7) Power Biseul (2) Jeonmuhumu
Next Best 6, 11, 10, 3
Outsiders 1, 5, 9
Fast Starters 1, 2, 4, 6, 8

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 24)

Ten races at Busan on Friday afternoon get the weekend action underway. The first is at 12:40 and the last at 19:00. Racing will return to Busan on Sunday while Seoul hosts cards on Saturday and Sunday.

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

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

(9) ROAD TO SUCC ESS looks on the path to a maiden victory. Thomas Gillespie’s filly has shown the most promise among those with experience here and will be favourite to get it right. Of those other experienced ones, (3) MACHO MYEONGUN and (10) HUIMANG PARADE look most likely to improve while among the four debut-makers, (2) DANCING BLAZE and (8) CHEONGCHUN CHAMP look the most likely.

Selections (9) Road To Success (10) Huimang Parade (2) Dancing Blaze (8) Cheongchun Champ
Next Best 3, 5, 1, 4
Outsiders 6, 7, 11, 12
Fast Starters 3, 8, 9

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 14:10 (KST)

An improved 2nd last start and finishing strongly, (5) THE WORLD is the pick to strike here with the extra half furlong likely to suit. (9) GABO STAR, who showed promise in three starts around the turn of the year and looked very sharp in a trial two weeks ago , is set to be the main danger while (7) FLORIDA WAY and (8) SEORABEOL DOLPUNG both try this distance for the first time having shown some talent at 1000M. (3) GORYEOUI KKUM has already tried 1300M three times and can improve on the 5th he managed last time out.

Selections (5) The World (9) Gabo Star (3) Goryeoui Kkum (8) Seorabeol Dolpung
Next Best 7, 4
Outsiders 1, 2, 6
Fast Starters 3, 9

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:00 (KST)

(2) TEXAS RUSH was 2nd when sent off as favourite over this distance at the end of last month and will be fancied once more to put it right in this all-filly affair (1) HWANGGEUM GEOTAP actually beat Texas Rush when racing 2nd back in March at 1200M. She has been off since then and while she didn’t go especially well in a trail earlier this month, she looks like the main danger. (3) GREAT PEARL beat three of these when finishing 2nd in a weak contest in May and while inconsistent, can be involved here while (8) DORAON GASOKDO and (9) OH DAEBAK look best of the rest.

Selections (2) Texas Rush (1) Hwanggeum Geotap (3) Great Pearl (9) Oh Daebak
Next Best 8, 12, 10, 11
Outsiders 4, 5, 6, 7
Fast Starters 1, 12

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

(2) VICAR HOPE is up in class following her maiden win at the end of last month and if she can get an early lead today – and from gate 2 she has every chance – then she could very well make it two in a row today. (11) JANTEUGAREU is the main danger. He’s shown a good turn of foot in three starts to date and has plenty more wins in him. (10) YEONSEUNG GONGJU scored a decent 2nd at class and distance last time out, beating (1) HANNAM ROOKIE in the process. The latter can go better today. (8) GANGJA DAERO is yet to win in 35 career starts but is more than capable of finding the money at this level.

Selections (2) Vicar Hope (11) Janteugareu (1) Hannam Rookie (10) Yeonseung Gongju
Next Best 8, 7, 4, 3
Outsiders 5, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 3, 4, 9

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

After a comfortable win on debut in May, (7) KKOKDAEGI was a disappointing 4th when favourite on his reappearance two weeks ago. If he can get off to a better start today, he will be dangerous and could well be favourite again. (11) FREE RUNNING is up in class following his maiden victory (beating Texas Rush who we saw in race 4) at this distance last time. He likes to come from well off the pace and could go well again. (10) MAJOR SLAM, who beat Free Running back in April, has achieved back to back 4th places in two starts at this class and can match or better that here. (8) CHOA, who beat Major Slam last time out and (3) SMART MARINE are others to consider.

Selections (7) Kkokdaegi (11) Free Running (10) Major Slam (8) Choa
Next Best 3, 2, 1
Outsiders 4, 5, 6, 9
Fast Starters 1, 5, 7, 8

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

(7) WONIL BULPAE beat three of these when running 2nd on debut at class and distance in May. He was scratched when likely to be favourite three weeks ago and is to be strongly considered here. (5) FIVE VICTORS may better be known as five runners-up as he has finished 2nd in each of his last five starts. He will be backed again though and 2nd should be a minimum requirement today. (2) KWAEHAN MYEONGPUM and (3) SWEET MYEONGUN are both capable of finding the money at this level. The former is Korean bred as is the up in class (11) IMPASSIONED MARINE, a four-length winner over 1300M three weeks ago and who looks very nicely in here.

Selections (7) Wonil Bulpae (5) Five Victors (11) Impassioned Marine (2) Kwaehan Myeongpum
Next Best 3, 4, 12, 10
Outsiders 1, 6, 8, 9
Fast Starters 1

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

(5) BUHWARUI BANSEOK beat (8) MIRACLE IJI by half a length as the pair of them finished 2nd and 3rd in a decent race at class and distance on May 15th and they both have strong claims here with the former favoured once more. Six of the others faced each other over a mile on May 27th. (2) IRON TRAIN finished the best of them in 3rd place and he must be respected having previously won at this distance. (1) DAEJONGCHEON was 4th that day and is another who has performed at this distance in the past while (7) GIANT HOLD, 5th in that race and a stablemate of Buhwarui Banseok is another to consider.

Selections (5) Buhwarui Banseok (1) Daejongcheon (2) Iron Train (8) Miracle Iji
Next Best 7, 6, 3
Outsiders 4, 9, 10
Fast Starters 1, 2, 5, 6

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

This race is being held in honour of jockey You Hyun Myung’s recent 700th career winner. The man himself doesn’t have a ride in the race but if he did, he would perhaps choose to be on (3) MORNING DAERO. Following a pair of wins, he was beaten into 4th by (1) FURIOUS PARK and (5) CHOEGANGIJI when seven of these faced each other at class and distance on May 27th but looks very nicely in here to overturn that form. Those other two should run well once more while (9) BAEKDU is up in class following a win at a mile last month. His previous try at this distance didn’t go well but he can be given another chance here. (4) SEONGSAN PAECEHONG looks best of the rest.

Selections (3) Morning Daero (1) Furious Park (5) Choegangiji (9) Baekdu
Next Best 4, 11, 6
Outsiders 2, 7, 8, 10
Fast Starters 4, 7

Race 10: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 19:00 (SIN)

(7) WONIL ROOKIE comes in following back to back wins at this class, most recently beating two of these at this distance on May 20th. He has to be respected, however, he is carrying significantly more weight today and that may be a factor. (1) BLUE STORM is up in class following an eye-catching win over this distance on May 29th, he will look to lead from the gate and will be well backed. (9) ACE MARINE beat (3) EOROK by half a length as the pair raced 3rd and 4th over 1400M on May 27th and they may also be considered here.

Selections (1) Blue Storm (7) Wonil Rookie (3) Eorok (9) Ace Marine
Next Best 8, 2
Outsiders 4, 5, 6
Fast Starters 1, 9

Sunday Preview (June 19)

Full cards at both Seoul and BUsan today with the Listed Sports Chosun Cup the feature race. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 along with 6 at Busan from 13:00 to 17:05.

English racecards are available here

Three races are available for betting on the TAB in Australia, including the Sports Chosun Cup. See below for brief notes on them:

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45 (KST)

Hot favourite here is (7) GOREOUS DREAM. He’s won four from five so far and is up in class following an emphatic six-length win over 1200M on May 7th. He tries an extra half furlong for the first time but should have far too much for this field and will most likely lead from gate to wire once more. A proven money winner at this level (6) HORURAGI looks to have the best chance of stopping the favourite. She beat (4) GEUMSUNI EOMJI when the pair raced 3rd and 5th over 1400M last month. Horuragi will also be on the early speed. Coin from just behind will be (5) BOLT SIGN, who is up in class following a good win at this distance at the end of May and should be competitive here. (2) LITTLE BROWN is best of the rest.

Selections (7) Goreous Dream (6) Horuragi (5) Bolt Sign (2) Little Brown
Next Best 4, 8
Outsiders 1, 3
Fast Starters 2, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 9: Class Open (R80&Down) – The Sports Chosun Cup / 2000M / Weight for Age / KRW 200 Million / 16:40 (KST)

Having beaten three of these when making all to win by a neck over 1800M on May 21st, (2) GASOKBULPAE is favoured to strike once more on his first try at 2000M. He’s won six of ten so far and still looks to have scope for more development. (6) COSMOS KING returned from a five month absence to run 3rd at 1800M in May and should have come on for it. He’s quick with a strong finish. Champion jockey Moon Se Young takes the ride on (5) SUN STRONG, who races for the first time since beating a couple of these in April. He looked sharp in a trial last week and can be considered. (1) SPECIAL STAR and (9) SUPER TANK, both beaten by Gasokbulpae in May, are others who can go close.

Selections (2) Gasokbulpae (6) Cosmos King (5) Sun Strong (9) Super Tank
Next Best 1, 10, 3, 11, 8
Outsiders 4, 7
Fast Starters 2

Seoul Race 10: Class 4 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 17:30 (KST)

Competitive event this and (1) RAON BOLAVEN can improve on a couple of slightly disappointing outings and get back to winning ways following a seven-week break. (6) GWANGYANG DOLPUNG is up in class and also in distance following a two-length win over 1400M a month ago and looks the main danger. Both of those will look to come from behind the early speed which is likely to be set by (3) TOUR MIDAS, 2nd at class and distance last start and capable of going well here. (2) MAGIC QUEEN and (7) DAEWANGSIN – the latter beat Raon Bolaven at long odds at the end of April – are others to take into account.

Selections (1) Raon Bolaven (6) Gwangyang Dolpung (3) Tour Midas (2) Magic Queen
Next Best 8, 7, 4
Outsiders 5, 9
Fast Starters 3, 7, 9

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-by-Race Preview (June 12)

It’s Korean Oaks day at Busan. Nine fillies will line up for the Classic race, a full preview of which can be found here.

There’s plenty of other racing happening at both Seoul and Busan. Rock Band makes his long awaited return on the south-coast, while Sotong Sidae heads the line-up in Seoul’s feature handicap. Rain is forecast at both tracks.

There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 13:00 to 17:30. English racecards are here. Notes on races from Seoul race 5 onwards are below:

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 13:25 (KST)

Fillies only here and (2) GRIFFIN comes in following back to back victories, most recently beating five of these over class and distance on May 22nd. She won well that day and can repeat but she carries and additional 4kg today and that may be key. (3) DONGHAE CHANGA could be the one to take advantage, coming in after consecutive 3rd places at domestic class 4 and ready to win at this level. (8) J ONE was just over a length behind Griffin last time and can make that up today while (1) QUEEN’S PALACE and (5) DRAGON VILLAGE are the others to watch.

Selections (3) Donghae Changa (2) Griffin (8) J One (1) Queen’s Palace
Next Best 5, 9, 7
Outsiders 4, 6, 10, 11
Fast Starters 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:50 (KST)

(2) TAIL WIND won a good race at class and distance on May 13th, beating three who go here and he is favoured to strike again here. Main danger could be the up in class (5) KWAEHAN YEONGUNG, who got her maiden win last time showing plenty of speed. (4) CAPITAL GANGJA is talented and can be forgiven a poor outing last month while the three who were beaten by Tail Wind in that good race in May; (1) GODAE, (11) USEUNG CHEONJI and (12) SKY RUNNER, can be given another chance today.

Selections (2) Tail Wind (5) Kwaehan Yeongung (4) Capital Gangja (1) Godae
Next Best 12, 11, 6, 8
Outsiders 3, 7, 9, 10
Fast Starters 2, 4, 8

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:15 (KST)

Small field and (4) WHIZ RUN should have the beating of them having just been beaten half a length on his first try at this class last month. (6) JOARA steps up in class following victory at this distance and is the main danger. (2) FLAME CAT can be given another chance after a disappointing run last month (behind Griffin who we saw in race 5) and will join Whiz Run on the early speed. (7) COTTON PRINCE looks best of the rest.

Selections (4) Whiz Run (6) Joara (2) Flame Cat (7) Cotton Prince
Next Best 5, 3, 1
Fast Starters 2, 4, 5

Busan Race 3: Class 3 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 14:40 (KST)

(2) TARIAT TALE has won three from five so far and looks well set to add to that here. He’ll come from just behind an early speed that will likely be set by, among others, (11) PALMAUI SEONDU, who was just beaten a neck in a tough contest over this distance two weeks ago in what was a much improved performance and he can build on that today. (1) TOP SPRING has beaten (3) BADA DOSI at 1800M twice recently and both should be competitive at a mile while (7) DYNAMIC TANK is up in class and significantly in distance for what’s just her fourth start. She returned from eight months out to record her maiden win last month.

Selections (2) Tariat Tale (11) Palmaui Seondu (7) Dynamic Tank (3) Bada Dosi
Next Best 1, 9, 10, 6
Outsiders 4, 5, 8, 12
Fast Starters 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 7: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:05 (KST)

Competitive event here with three stepping up in class following victories last time. Of those, (7) INSUJAE was the most impressive and accordingly is narrowly favoured today although the other two, (6) DAEDOLPUNG and (9) BINGO STAR are likely to be the main dangers. The latter two are likely to look to lead early with Insujae being given a more patient ride. The ones with experience at this level have plenty to find but (5) TONGIRUI HAMSEONG and (10) SMART CAPTAIN looking the most likely.

Selections (7) Insujae (6) Daedolpung (9) Bingo Star (10) Smart Captain
Next Best 5, 2, 1
Outsiders 3, 4, 8
Fast Starters 3, 4, 6, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 15:30 (KST)

Bart Rice’s (10) TRIPLE FIVE has two wins and three seconds from five starts to date and is up in class following a dominant five-length win in a good race at this distance last month. He should have too much here. (4) FRENCH BOY, while inconsistent, showed he can compete at this level with a 3rd place in a solid contest last start and is the main danger while (8) POKPUNG CHOEGANG beat three of these when running 2nd at class and distance on May 13th and must be respected. One of these was (2) WORLD LOVE, who will be on the early speed, while (7) CHOEGANG BULPAE is another to consider.

Selections (10) Triple Five (4) French Boy (8) Pokpung Choegang (2) World Love
Next Best 7, 11, 6, 3
Outsiders 1, 5, 9, 12
Fast Starters 1, 2, 4

Seoul Race 8: Class 5 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 (KST)

Since getting his maiden win last November, (2) MR MOUNTAIN has managed to narrowly dodge the winner’s circle at class 5 but can put things right today on what will be his first try around two turns. (8) CURRICLE is yet to win in fifteen but was 2nd at class and distance last start, beating a couple of these in the process and can place once more. (5) JISANGGEOTAP and (6) DEVIL MAN have both also raced well at 1700M and may be considered with (7) VICKY LIE one who may appreciate the increase in distance.

Selections (2) Mr. Mountain (8) Curricle (6) Devil Man (7) Vicky Lie
Next Best 5, 11, 10, 1, 3
Outsiders 4, 9
Fast Starters 3

Busan Race 5: Class Open / 1800M / Allowance – The Korean Oaks / KRW 500 Million / 16:30 (KST)

Runner by runner guide here

(2) OTTUG OTTUGI was 2nd in the KRA Cup Mile and then skipped the Derby in order to target this race. On Derby weekend she won at 1800M, will be the quickest away and will be the strong favourite. (4) HOSEUNGJIBYEOK will be 2nd favourite although she wasn’t convincing when racing 2nd at this distance last month and was beaten in March’s Oaks trial not only by Ottug Ottugi, but also by (9) SANTA GLORIA and (1) STEAL THE SHOW WHY. Both of those can go well here and the latter was beaten by (3) SPECIAL ROOKIE at a mile in April. Neither have run since but both looked good in recent trials. Special Rookie is a stablemate of Ottug Ottugi; their trainer Kim Young Kwan has won the race for the past three years and one way or another, looks likely to win this time as well.

Selections (2) Ottug Ottugi (9) Santa Gloria (3) Special Rookie (4) Hoseungjibyeok
Next Best 1, 7, 5
Outsiders 6, 8
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 5

Seoul Race 9: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:00 (KST)

It’s time (8) SOTONG SIDAE returned to winning ways. His win record would be much higher were it not for the fact that he is always entered in the toughest company and today offers a really good opportunity to change that. He will go back at the start but if he leaves himself a little less to do late on than he has in recent outings, he can win. (6) SEONBONG is of course a big danger. While more dangerous at sprints, he has shown himself more than capable of winning at this level and can do so again. (7) KWAESEOK JILPUNG races at class 1 for the first time and can take advantage of a light weight to secure a good finish while (4) GLOBAL FUSION and (5) IMPETUS can’t be ruled out after recent decent efforts.

Selections (8) Sotong Sidae (6) Seonbong (7) Kwaseok Jilpung (4) Global Fusion
Next Best 3, 5, 1, 11
Outsiders 2, 9, 10, 12
Fast Starters 6, 7, 10

Busan Race 6: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 17:30 (KST)

After eight months, (2) ROCK BAND is back. He won the Minister’s Cup but hasn’t been seen since running 2nd to Triple Nine in the President’s Cup at Seoul last October. He has won six of eight starts and came through trials ok. If he is anything like the old Rock Band, he wins. (6) MACHEON BOLT returns for the first time since beating two of these when winning at class and distance in February and is a genuine threat to the favourite as is (1) WONIL GANGJA wo was sent back to trial after laying out last time – he’s since completed two trials. (3) FOREST BOLD, who won the race in which Wonil Gangja behaved badly and (5) DARKEST NIGHT look best of the rest.

Selections (2) Rock Band (6) Macheon Bolt (1) Wonil Gangja (5) Darkest Night
Next Best 3, 8, 11
Outsiders 4, 7, 9, 10
Fast Starters 1, 2, 8, 10

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00 (KST)

Up in class following his maiden win by five-lengths at 1200M on May 15th, (9) CHOEGANGJA is the pick to immediately follow up here. It took him a couple of tries to figure out what to do but he now looks a solid prospect. Also up in class following victories are (2) BLAZING STAR and (6) SMOKEN JOE and both can compete while (4) READ AGAIN comes in following a victory at this class and distance, coming from right off the pace, on May 1st and can go well again. (3) JEONSEUNG DAESE struggled a little last time but can go better today.

Selections (9) Choegangja (4) Read Again (2) Blazing Star (3) Jeonseung Daese
Next Best 6, 10
Outsiders 1, 5, 7, 8
Fast Starters 2, 3, 6, 7, 9

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.

DSC_3289-select (1)

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