Seoul

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 28)

Sunday’s racing is at both Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:50 to 16:30). No Stakes races but plenty to get stuck into. The forecast is for rain throughout the weekend so if you’re coming bring an umbrella and if you’re playing be sure to check out the wet track form:

Ranut bis for four in a row in Seoul Race 7 (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

The capital’s first juvenile race of the year so all eleven are racing for the first time. (3) HANGANG CROWN was the standout in trials, leading her heat all the way around and stopping the clock in the quickest time. She draws nicely and she will be favourite. (7) GEOLJAK ONE and (2) YONGAM SESANG also won their respective heats and in identical times. Geoljak One perhaps had the slightly easier time of it and of the two is marginally preferred. (11) ECLIPSE BERRY didn’t win her trial, but she ran well, crossing the line 2nd behind an experienced older horse and without being pushed too much. Moon Se-young’s appointment will lead plenty to come down on her side. Going on times, (8) JANGGUN GARAM is another who has a chance first-up although as we saw in Busan’s equivalent race on Friday, a lot can happen between trial and debut.

Selections(3) Hangang Crown (7) Geoljak One (2) Yongam Sesang (11) Eclipse Berry
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens here. (9) DAONDI has finished 5th in both starts so far but did show some improvement in the most recent of them. He has run through the line strongly enough and with a little more improvement may have winning claims here. (4) BIG BLED has shown progress across her three starts culminating with her 3rd place at this distance at her latest on April 9th. Her times haven’t been impressive but, in this company, she could well get to the front, and she won’t need to be much quicker to go very close here. (6) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK made little impression from a wide draw last time out but if we go on his 4th place at this distance two starts back, he warrants consideration. In a race this weak the debut-makers must be examined. (7) SEONGEUN RISING won her trial and while the time wasn’t fast, that’s enough to give her a chance. (1) STEALTH PARK another who may improve.

Selections(9) Daondi (4) Big Bled (6) Sidaeui Myeongjak (7) Seongeun Rising
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Quite a good-looking maiden with plenty looking as though they have a win in them. (4) CLAIR QUEEN is one of them. She comes in off her best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on April 22nd when ridden more forward than she had been previously. From a good draw similar tactics can be expected today, and she can go one better. (5) SSEULMO has seemingly figured things out in his latest two, with a 3rd and a 2nd. Both times he led until the closing stages, and he seems sure to be on pace and in this a long way again. (3) RAON JUMP has the fastest time among these for the distance, achieved when 5th last time out on April 29th when the track was producing some quick races. She has tended to leave herself too much to do but should be finishing off well and can run into a place. (8) MAGUMA is another who will be doing his best work late on and he already has a 2nd place to his name. Solitary debut-maker (7) COSMO RUN improved in his second trial when he ran 2nd behind a class 1 horse. If he brings that form to the races, he can go well first-up.

Selections(4) Clair Queen (5) Sseulmo (3) Raon Jump (8) Maguma
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Having bolted up in a February trial, (9) KALJABI was sent off as favourite on debut on March 5th. He showed towards the front but ultimately finished 4th. He should have come on for that experience and after a further twelve-weeks off, he can be given another chance. The main danger is in the adjoining gate. (10) ROSE BLADE was also well backed on debut on April 30th following a promising trial, and he delivered with a good 3rd place over this distance, settling just forward of midfield and running on. He should have derived benefit from the run and can go closer here. (5) WAITING FOR YOU did little in her first two outings but was an improved 3rd in her latest on April 21st when racing handy throughout. That will probably be enough to make her third-favourite here. (1) SUCCESS FRONT and (4) HAENGBOK CHUKJE the most likely among the rest to improve.

Selections(9) Kaljabi (10) Rose Blade (5) Waiting For You (1) Success Front
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

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

(2) MAUIWAY got his win when practically making all over 1200M in January. Since then, he has raced twice at this level running 5th and most recently 3rd, both times having settled back in the pack. He has a nice draw here and can sit behind the early speed and run on. (6) FIJI BLADE is still a maiden but comes up in class having finished as runner-up in both her starts so far, both at 1200M. She comes down in the weights and should be on pace and while she may find one too quick again, she can certainly measure up in this company. (4) SAENAE KHAN got his maiden win at this distance at class 6 level in February. He has two 4th places in two goes at this level and should be in at least the placing mix again. (7) CLUB D and (3) SUPREME STAR are others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Mauiway (6) Fiji Blade (4) Saenae Khan (7) Club D
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) FANTASTIC CHAMP debuted last May but wasn’t seen again until March when he got his maiden win at this distance. He went up to 1300M for his first try at class 5 on April 28th and while he showed prominently, he ultimately finished 5th. Third-up this preparation he may well be at peak fitness and back at 1200M he can win this. (9) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT is yet to win in twelve attempts but ran well for his fourth runner-up finish at class and distance on April 14th when close to the pace throughout. At the start before he came from off the pace to dead-heat for 3rd so he is versatile, and he can be a danger here. (4) TAEYANG EUTTEUM has the fastest time of any of these at the distance, record when 3rd – a long way behind a good winner – on May 5th. She remains lightly weighted and merits at least a place chance. (1) GOLD ROSE and the returning (6) WORLD FIVE, are other potentials.

(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 26)

It’s a rare Stakes-free weekend but there is still plenty to keep punters occupied. Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews :

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (1) NAOL ROONEY was a solid 4th on debut at this distance on April 23rd, racing in pace throughout. She draws well to be on the pace again and with some natural improvement from that run, she can win. (6) WONPYEONG KINGDOM shapes as the main danger. He’s run 3rd in both starts so far, both times on pace and at 1300M and 1200M. He too will be challenging for the early lead and any top=three finish will see him up to class 5 next time. It could be a win. Another one likely to be at the front early is (5) BULGEUN POKPUNG. His best so far was his 3rd place on debut at 1000M, but he led for a long way last time before being passed by a few for 6th. He can be in this for longer this time. There are three debut-makers and with the exposed form dropping off, they can be considered. Taking into account their trials and draw, (2) LAFEYETTE and (4) GLOBAL CHUKBAE have the best chance of making an immediate impression.

Selections(1) Naol Rooney (6) Wonpyeong Kingdom (5) Bulgeun Pokpung (2) Lafeyette
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens. (4) THEME TANSAENG ran a good 2nd two starts back, well behind a decent winner but in a decent time over 1200M. He had a hard time finding position from a wide draw on his latest, but he comes into a better gate here and should get an easier run to the lead. Moon Se-young stays aboard, and he is the one to beat. (7) WORLD FASHION has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes, settling back each tome and running on. He lay in ungenerously last time out to the extent that he was ordered back to trial, but he came through his heat in good order and with a more mature run, can go close again. (10) PURPLE WINK won a March trial before finishing a fair 4th on debut at 1200M on April 15th, running on well. He should have come on for the run and the way he finished off suggests the additional half furlong can suit. (9) HAENGUN BARAM and (8) LEMON BLADE among others in the frame.

Selections(4) Theme Tansaeng (7) World Fashion (10) Purple Wink (9) Haengun Baram
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A regular maiden here and (9) FINAL CHUKJE looks set to be a warm favourite. He has five top-five finishes from six starts and his most recent outing was his best when 2nd over this distance on March 25th when he posted the fastest time of any of these over 1400M. The one downside is the draw is perhaps a little wider then ideal, but he has a long back straight to overcome that and he can win. (5) EXPECT stepped up to this trop on April 30th and produced his best performance to date when 3rd having raced handy. He’ll be on or near the speed here and can be a danger. (3) SAVANA CHARLIE was 4th in that same race. That was the fourth time in six starts that he has finished in that position, and he should be at least matching that here. (10) UDDUG and (1) HANGANG POWER among others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Final Chukje (5) Expect (3) Savana Charlie (10) Uddug
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(6) DALGEUM has five top-three finishes from seven starts so far including her latest two, a 2nd and a 3rd both at this class and distance. She has been on pace in those two and probably will be again and this time she can make the breakthrough. (5) WORLD KING MAN was 5th to Dalgeum’s 2nd when they raced one another on March 26th. He subsequently dropped back to 1300M and beat a couple of these on his way to 4th place on April 22nd. His style has been to drop back and then run on and he can be a danger in the closing stages here. (3) STAR K was a slightly unexpected winner on April 9th, coming from well back to score over 1300M. He comes up in class here, but the distance should suit, and he could have more improvement in him at what will be an each-way price. (8) YEONGCHEON JISANG and (9) POWER DOLPUNG among others with placing chances.

Selections(6) Dalgeum (5) World King Man (3) Star K (8) Yeongcheon Jisang
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start6, 7, 9, 10

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

A very competitive race. (8) HWANGWOO CHOEGANG is the likely favourite. She got her maiden win at start number two over this distance on April 1st and then ran a fair 4th on her first try at this class on April 29th in what was a very quick race on a wet track. She comes in under the same light weight and she can sit behind the speed and run on. (1) GANGHAN QUEEN was a good 3rd on her most recent outing on April 16th when she led for much of the way. She’ll be on or close to the pace again and can be in this a long way. (2) GLOBAL CHANGA weakened having led over this distance on March 12th. That was her first start since she ran 5th of ten in a Listed juvenile race last November and while she has had a further eleven weeks off since, she should strip fitter here and will have backers. The up in class pair of (11) BARAMUI HYANGGI and (7) GEOLJAK TOUR are others to consider.

(more…)

YTN Cup Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 21)

The YTN Cup, the second leg of the Stayer Series is the headline race on Sunday. See here for a fuller preview. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here’s the race-by-race:

Winner’s Man won the 1st leg of the Stayer Series (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1:  Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(9) RAON HOLIDAY was a much-improved 3rd at start number four on April 15th, finishing 2nd in a quick time. He raced on the speed for the first time and while he draws wider this time, expect similar tactics today, and he can go one better. (8) CANDY GLOW will be challenging him for the lead. He enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at this trip and both in good times. She’ll surely be in this a long way. (3) BURUI JILJU returned from nine months out to run 2nd over 1700M on March 26th, sitting handy throughout. That was a big effort first-up, but he’s had eight weeks off since and he will be expected to go close here. (11) NEMO SPIRIT and (1) FINE DAY are other potential improvers.

Selections(9) Raon Holiday (8) Candy Glow (3) Burui Jilju (11) Nemo Spirit
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Not the strongest of maidens and that will make (10) SEONGSIL INDONG a warm favourite. She steps up marginally in trip for the first time following three fair efforts over 1200M when she has run on well each time. Moon Se-young climbs on board today and it will be no surprise if they win. (2) TRES VITE on the other hand comes back in trip after a couple of spins around 1700M including a last start 4th on March 26th when coming from off the pace. He draws well here and should be competitive. (4) WONDERFUL FOX has shown slight but noticeable improvement over her three outings culminating in 5th place last time over this trip. Her times haven’t been quick but if she continues to get better the same rate, then she will merit at least a place chance here. (6) EURO GANGJA and (1) GEOMOON others in the minor money frame.

Selections(10) Seongsil Indong (2) Tres Vite (4) Wonderful Fox (6) Euro Gangja
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

No fewer than five of the twelve are up in class last stat winners. We’ll side with (10) K N GOLDEN KING. With a 3rd and a 2nd from his first two starts, it was no surprise when he duly obliged when favourite over 1200M on April 8th. He made all that day so he does have the challenge of a wider draw, but he also comes up in trip so has an additional 100-metres to the turn and that could be enough for Moon Se-young to find his desired position. (6) FLYING LIGHT won on debut and while he took a couple of goes to figure things out at this class, he comes in off a strong class and distance 2nd on April 16th, well beaten by a good winner, but a strong performance, nonetheless. He draws well to sit handy or race on pace and a repeat will put him in the finish again. Returning to the up in class ones, (5) HWANGGEUMKKOT and (4) MIR POINT look the most likely to measure up. (8) WALGADAK another of those with experience at this level who can go close in what is a very competitive race.  

Selections(10) K N Golden King (6) Flying Light (5) Hwanggeumkkot (4) Mir Point
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A very competitive maiden to open proceedings on the south coast and it’s hard to be confident about much of the form. The one thing is clear is that (4) VELOCIRAPTOR has the fastest time for the distance among these, recorded three starts back when 3rd, and that is enough to give him a chance here. He didn’t go well over a mile last time but back to 1300M and from a good gate, he has as much chance as any. (5) TOO CUTE GIRL and (9) HAMA come sin having run 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced one another at this distance on April 16th. There wasn’t much to choose between them that day – it was for both their best performance so far – and with them both carrying the same weight, we’ll side with Too Cute Girl by virtue of having the better gate. (2) MIRACULUM and (11) VERLUC are other possibles for the minors.

Selections(4) Velociraptor (5) Too Cute Girl (9) Hama (2) Miraculum
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (1) BURUI KKOT is yet to win from twelve attempts but has no eleven top five finishes including four as runner up. She comes back in trip after several near misses at 1300M, she has the plum inside gate, which should get her on to the speed with a minimal amount of fuss and an apprentice jockey takes her weight down. This could be her day. The main danger is (8) TROT QUEEN. She was 5th to Burui Kkot’s4th with little between them when they raced one another over 1300M on April 8th. She too is yet to win but has good times at this distance and she will be running on strong late. (5) WONPYEONG GWANGYA comes back in trip after weakening late on over 1300M in her latest two. From a good gate and under a light weight, she can be on pace and in this a long way. (10) GOLDEN LUCKY and (3) HONEY PUNCH, the latter who can have her latest outing forgiven as she was first up following a lengthy absence, are others to consider.

Selections(1) Burui Kkot (8) Trot Queen (5) Wonpyeong Gwangya (10) Golden Lucky
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) HANEUL MISO remains a maiden following thirteen starts but enters with her recent form at class and distance reading very well. She has been back to trial since her latest 3rd place on April 16th and se won her heat in fine fashion three weeks ago. She draws well here, carries a very light weight, and today can be her day. (7) DOCTOR CUCKOO is up in class having secured his maiden win on April 28th when stalking the lead early before taking things up turning into the straight and going on to win by however many he please. This is tougher but the manner of that victory suggests there is more to come, and he shouldn’t be dismissed. (8) SEOGWI CHUKJE is another maiden, but she comes in following three consecutive runner-up finishes at this class, two of them at today’s distance. Among them was the fastest time for any of these over the 1200M and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (6) B.K. GALLOP and (1) CHEONGMA POWER others in the placing frame.

(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 20)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Winner’s Man will be in town on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener with four of the eleven racing for the first time. There are two stand outs, and the better draw means the nod goes to (2) MR QUALITY. His best was his 2nd on debut but he has run fairly in both starts since and both were from wide gates. He should get a much easier early run today and he can win. (11) TAMRA CHOEGANGJA is the main danger. He’s shown good progress across his three appearances so far, culminating in a 3rd place over this distance on April 15th. He has finished off his races well and while he may need a touch of luck from the barrier, he will have plenty of backers. (7) AUSTIN LEADER ran fairly for a midfield finish on debut over this distance in February, having previously shown some speed in his trial. He returns fourteen weeks later and better will be expected. (5) POWERFUL VISION looks the best of the first-time starters, while (8) PEARL POINT is another who can improve.

Selections(2) Mr Quality (11) Tamra Choegangja (7) Austin Leader (5) Powerful Vision
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(4) TI AMO looks the one to beat here. She has two 3rd places among four starts so far including her latest on April 22nd when she overcame gate ten to lead until the closing stages. She comes into a better gate today and this time can lead all the way. (8) TOUGH YEOJE has some fair efforts on her resume including a 4th place last time out over this distance. She can settle behind the speed here and should be pressing late. (10) SECRET WANGJA has the fastest time among these for the distance. He comes back in trip after a couple of recent spins at 1300M and he is a another who can challenge in the closing stages. (9) APEX and (6) WONDERFUL RULES are among others with placing claims.

Selections(4) Ti Amo (8) Tough Yeoje (10) Secret Wangja (9) Apex
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens. (11) RAON THE COBRA raced twice las summer for a 4th (dead-heated) and 3rd at 1000M and 1200M. He hasn’t raced since September 4th so returns for the first time in thirty-seven weeks, but he looked well enough when crossing the line midfield in a trial which wasn’t fast but where the field pretty much all come home together at the end of April. He’ll need this but a bold showing first-up is a possibility. (9) EUNBIT DOLPUNG has shown steady progress across three starts so far, with a close 2nd in her latest over 1200M on April 22nd when making ground late. She comes back up to 1300M here, the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue, and she has a big chance. (8) MENI POCKET has three top-four finishes among four outings to date including a runner-up finish at this distance. Expect her to be on pace here and in this a long way. (6) SINUI YEOIN beat three of these on her way to 2nd place on April 9th. She was sent off at big odds and it was a big improvement, but third-up this preparation, she may be peaking fitness wise and can go close again. (7) MADE STAR, one of those behind Sinui Yeoin in that race, is another in the minor money hunt.

Selections(11) Raon The Cobra (9) Eunbit Dolpung (8) Meni Pocket (6) Sinui Yeoin
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

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

(6) HEY CUPID debuted inauspiciously last October but then returned on April 22nd to make all for a comfortable win over 1200M. He was gelded during the layoff and the win wasn’t unexpected after he dominated a March trial. He comes up in class and slightly in distance here, but he is very much the one to beat. (5) G STAR shook off a run of middling form to run 2nd at class and distance on April 15th when ridden on pace for the first time in a while. He comes up 2.5kg here but with similar tactics, can be considered. (10) HANGANG HERO is yet to win in fifteen attempts but enters off a third runner-up finish on April 9th when settling midfield and running on. She may find a couple too quick again but may make for some each-way interest. (9) PEERLESS and (8) ARCH MEMORY others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(6) Hey Cupid (5) G Star (10) Hangang Hero (9) Peerless
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start5, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(8) EUREKA was a winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 3rd on his first try at this class, again over the 1700M, on April 23rd. He has run well from the front and from settling back and while his time may need to be a bit quicker, he has every chance here. (6) THUNDER HORSE was dropped back to 1200M last start but quickly got caught in kickback and by the time he found a clear run in the home straight the race was over. He has solid form over this trip though and should be far happier back up at two turns. (1) BITNANEUN JILJU and (5) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE came home 4th and 6th when they raced one another at class and distance on April 24th. Both are recent winners at the distance, and both should be competitive again here. (7) ROSE GOLD another to keep safe.

(more…)

SBS Sports Sprint, Ttukseom Cup & Exchange Race Sunday – Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (May 14)

It’s Ttukseom Cup and SBS Sports Sprint day at Seoul on Sunday. See here for full preview of the two races. There are also six reciprocal Trophy Exchange races. Busan hosts Trophies for OSAF (South America), the Jockey Club of Turkey and the Selangor Turf Club. At Seoul there are Trophies in honour of the Royal Western India Turf Club, the China Horse Industry Association and Tokyo City Keiba. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here are the Previews:

Raon First and Choi Bum-hyun will aim to defend the Ttukseom Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden to open with. (10) DAEHEUNG CLASS enters in off his two best performances so far, a 2nd and a 3rd both over this distance when settling back and running on. His style is such that he doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw isn’t a problem and he should be finishing off well. (2) ARGO MUJEOK also comes in following his best performance to date, when 2nd at 1200M on April 16th when handy throughout. He steps up to this distance for the first time and from a good draw, it may well suit. (1) MIGHTY ANN returned from almost six months out to run 3rd over 1200M on April 8th. She should strip fitter for that run and can match or better it here. (9) WONPYEONG SKY and (11) LAST PITCH are among plenty of others with minor money hopes.

Selections(10) Daeheung Class (2) Argo Mujeok (1) Mighty Ann (9) Wonpyeong Sky
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens and not an especially strong race. Despite the wide draw, we’ll side with (11) HAENGUN BARAM, who after a return to trial after an inauspicious February debut, was much better on April 8h when running 2nd at this distance and with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She settled midfield and finished well and while the time wasn’t quick, it was faster than any of the others here have managed. (3) NAOL DAEWANG likewise wasn’t exactly a speedster when 3rd on debut over this distance on April 9th. He was slowly away but finished well and with some natural improvement, can be in this. (10) DAMJAENGI ARGO was 4th behind Haeungun Baram on April 8th, her second 4th place in a row. She draws wide but with a bit of luck can get a forward or handy position which will put her in the hunt. (5) MILLION PARTY and (2) HEART K are others to consider.

Selections(11) Haengun Baram (3) Naol Daewang (10) Damjaengi Argo (5) Million Party
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Another maiden and (7) LEGEND SOCKS will be favourite. Since returning from eleven months off, he has two 3rd places and a 2nd from three starts back, all at this class and distance and each time racing handy. He’ll be close to the speed again and this time should be going one better. (5) GRAND POWER remains a maiden after fifteen attempts but has four runner-up finishes, including at this class over 1400M two starts back. The drop back in trip may suit here and he should be on pace and in this a long way. (8) MAGLE DAY got his maiden win three starts back at 1300M and has since finished 5th in two tries at this class. He too comes back slightly in trip and should be a factor. (11) FINAL JILJU comes up in class after a maiden win at this distance on April 15th. The time was good, and he can measure up in this company. (3) LEGEND K was never a factor in his latest but has won at the distance and can be given another chance.

Selections(7) Legend Socks (5) Grand Power (8) Magle Day (11) Final Jilju
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(7) GIJEOGUI GEUMBIT shapes as a warm favourite here. That’s based on her latest outing which was also her best when 3rd over 1200M on April 23rd. She has raced at this distance before too, posting a time quicker than any of the others have achieved and she won’t need to improve very much to win here. (1) DIA SPIRIT has left himself far too much to do in his races so far but rattled home well for 3rd over 1200M on April 7th. He gets his best draw since his debut; an apprentice keeps the weight down and the extra half furlong can work in his favour. (10) ECTON POWER is yet to finish in the top two in twenty-eight starts. He has though picked up plenty of minor checks including a 4th place last time out when finishing well at 1200M. He should be matching or bettering that here. (6) KELLY QUEEN and (3) RUNNING FASHION others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Gijeogui Geumbit (1) Dia Spirit (10) Ecton Power (6) Kelly Queen
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1200M) Special Weight A / Royal Western India Turf Club Trophy / KRW 150 Million

The first of a lot of trophy races today, this one equivalent to class 3. It’s a tricky puzzle. (7) WOLF PLAY has won two of his latest three with defeat sandwiched between those wins being in the Sports Seoul Classic Trial. His latest was at this distance at class 4 level in a quick time on April 15th and while this is undoubtedly harder, he comes down in the weights and can measure up. (5) YELLOW CAT has eight top-three finishes from ten starts. Most recently she was 2nd over 1400M at class 3 level coming from off the pace but she has won at this distance and from a good draw should be very dangerous. (1) TAP QUALITY carries his fair share of weight here but he is a front runner who is coming back in trip and into a very good gate.  Ultra-consistent, he won’t be far away. (8) FARCIARZ and (3) SAENAE QUEEN among plenty of others who enter in good form and who can have a say.

Selections(7) Wolf Play (5) Yellow Cat (1) Tap Quality (8) Farciarz
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1600M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(8) TOP FRIEND beat four of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place at class and distance on April 7th when overcoming the widest gate to settle back in the field and then finish strongly. He carries the same weight today but comes into a slightly better barrier, and after three runner-up finishes, he can make the breakthrough at start number eight. (9) HWANGWOO MONEY was 3rd in that race, a length-and-a-half behind Top Friend having led for much of the way. His draw isn’t as good today, but he still looks to be the main danger. (4) ETTEUMI was 5th that day having been slowly away from a wide draw and finding it hard to get a good position. His draw is better today, and he should get closer. (10) WONDERFUL BOBCAT and (2) NOBLE COWBOY are other possibles.

Selections(8) Top Friend (9) Hwangwoo Money (4) Etteumi (10) Wonderful Bobcat
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1600M) Special Weight A / China Horse Industry Association Trophy / KRW 150 Million

This Trophy race is at class 2 level and has attracted the maximum safe field size of ten for the mile start. (6) SPOT FLATTER ran out a very good winner over this distance at class 2 on March 19th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. That was his first start back following an eight-month absence and he was at a big price. He will be much shorter today but can win again. (2) BEST LUCKY was 3rd in that race having settled midfield and run on. Like Spot Flatter, the set weight scale does him no favours, but he won under 56kg at class 3 level over this distance two starts back and from a nice draw can go close. (4) RAON BEAT came home 4th in that March 19th race having been slow away and settling right back. He has the fastest time in the field for the distance. The ultra consistent (9) YONGAM BOSS, as well as (7) ACE HAMSEONG are among those who didn’t go in the March 19th race who can enter the calculations.

(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 14)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens with two colts and nine fillies and five of them racing for the first time. One of these first timers will be the favourite. (5) LOVE COWGIRL (who for the benefit of those smirking in the back, is by Cowboy Cal and out of Love Minister) fairly bolted up in her trial, leading all the way and crossing the lengths fifteen-lengths clear of the rest. That was back in February, and it is fair to say that those she beat have not exactly caught the eye since, but the time speaks for itself and while it has been two and a half months, she will be eagerly anticipated here. Of the experienced ones, (9) GOLDEN FLYING is the only one to have placed. That was on her improved latest start when 3rd over this distance back in January. She’s been off fifteen weeks but should aim to match or better that in this company. (10) BARO CHAMPION looks to be close to figuring things out too with a 5th and a 4th from her latest two. She too won’t need to improve much to go close. (3) KING GO TAEYANG and (1) MUNHAK EAGLE are other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Love Cowgirl (9) Golden Flying (10) Baro Champion (3) King Go Taeyang
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A regular maiden here. (4) HIGH BORN ME shapes as the one to beat following back-to-back 3rd place finishes from his latest two starts at 1300M and this trip. From a kind draw, he can sit just behind the speed and may prove too strong. (11) JANGHEUNG CLASS has shown improvement in his latest two, including a 2nd place over this distance last time out on April 23rd. He raced handy that day and while he does have the challenge of the widest gate, with a bit of luck at the start, he can go close. (5) JEONGSANG LUCKY came back to this trip and back into some kind of form on April 16th when close to the pace all the way for 3rd place. Kim Hye-sun, in town for Sunday’s group races, takes the mount and she should be a danger. (2) MY ONE and (7) BEST PLAN, the latter with the fastest time of any at the distance, are others to keep safe.

Selections(4) High Born Me (11) Jangheung Class (5) Jeongsang Lucky (2) My One
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Back to three-year-old maidens, with three of the eleven racing for the first time. (4) CHEONJI SKY improved at start number two on March 11th when 3rd over this distance when settling midfield and running on. In this company and from this gate, he can be on pace here and has as good a chance as any. (2) PURPLE SHINHWA ran fairly for 5th on debut at this distance on April 9th when racing on the speed. He should have some natural improvement for that run and from a very nice draw, could get a soft lead. He’ll be in this a long way. (3) SHARP SUNSHINE has shown some progress in her latest two most recently when 4th of eleven on April 16th. In the process she set a time for the 1200M quicker than any of the others here have achieved and that alone puts her in the frame. (7) GEUMSEONG REVERE and (10) CUPID CHIC, who came home 3rd and 4th when racing one another last time out on April 1st, are others who can enter the calculations. 

Selections(4) Cheonji Sky (2) Purple Shinhwa (3) Sharp Sunshine (7) Geumseong Revere
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

(11) FLY DAY will be a hot favourite. He enters off his best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on April 15th, having settled back and run on. That was his fourth start and his second in the places so any top-three finish will see him up at class 5 next time. He has the fastest final furlong average time but with there not being much early speed in this race, we may see him close to the pace than usual and he should prove too strong.  (6) CUPID CHAMP also has two top-three finishes and while he has seemingly lost his way in his most recent two, again in this company he can be ridden on pace and may see his fortunes take a turn for the better. (3) FEDERAL PRESS has hinted at ability across four starts so far with a best of 5th. He has finished off his races well enough so the slight raise in trip can suit. (1) DIVINE PYEONGHWA and (9) GWANGCHIGI other potential minor money hopes in afield with not much depth.

Selections(11) Fly Day (6) Cupid Champ (3) Federal Press (1) Divine Pyeonghwa
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race featuring four last start winners. We’ll side with the up in class (7) HAEUNDAE GALMAEGI who got her maiden win at start number three over 1200M on April 16th leading every step of the way. She had previously run well at 1300M so the rise in trip may not be an issue, and she can make it two in a row. (1) DAERYUN SIDAE also comes up in class, in her case following her maiden score at start number six.  On April 15th when leading all the way. She comes up in trip but into a nice gate and is down in the weights. On the same day, (10) BEST JEONSA finally made his breakthrough at start fourteen. Unlike the other last start winners, it was at this class and distance and while he comes up 3.5kg in the weights, a repeat can’t be ruled out. (4) STAND BY ME, up in class and slightly in trip, is next best along with (9) BULUI NALGAE.

(more…)

Sports Chosun Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (May 7)

Sunday sees racing at both Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00), and at Busan (6 races from 11:50 to 16:35). It is a rare Sunday without any Graded races but there is a Trophy race at Seoul in the shape of the Listed Sports Chosun Trophy. Saturday’s rain should have long since stopped but the track will still be very wet. Here are the previews:

Tiz Barows could be the one to beat in the Sports Chosun (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens. (6) BEST CLONE will be favoured having shown promise across five prior starts culminating in a runner-up finish on April 9th when on pace throughout over this distance. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here and will take some beating at what will probably be a prohibitively short price.  (8) SEUNGNI GONGJU ran 4th behind Best Clone in that April 9th race. That was a big improvement from her debut and if she continues to make progress, she can get closer today. (7) GLORY AND HONOR hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but has got a little closer in her latest two, with a 3rd place last time out. She should be joining Best Clone at the head of the race early and can match or better that 3rd here. (3) HAYAN TAEYANG and (5) DAONDI others in the money hunt.

Selections(6) Best Clone (8) Seungni Gongju (7) Glory And Honor (3) Hayan Taeyang
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

The second division of the three-year-old maiden. (3) GHANA DREAM has raced twice, improving significantly in the second of them on April 1st when running on from midfield to finish runner-up at this distance. She can settle behind the speed here and can go one better this time. (6) NEW POINT is the main danger. She ran a solid 5th of eleven on debut in a quicker time than Gana Dream did. She doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim this time, but Antonio’s services should compensate for that, and with some natural improvement, she will be right in this. There are a couple of Debut-makers and (2) NURI TAEYANG qualified well at the second time of asking in a fair time and a close finish on April 14th. She did her best work late and the 1200M first-up may suit. (4) VISION POWER and (1) MOONHAK EDEN other potential improvers.

Selections(3) Ghana Dream (6) New Point (2) Nuri Taeyang (4) Vision Power
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(1) WONPYEONG CHUKJE will be a hot favourite to score here. He has been working towards a win in recent starts, culminating in an on-pace runner-up finish over this distance on April 1st in a time quicker than any of the others here have clocked. He draws well, he should be on pace, and he should have too much. (5) SAEROUN BITKKAL has picked up in his latest couple and enters off a career-best 3rd over this trip on April 8th. This is no harder and he can be competitive again. (4) DALMAJI also hinted at improvement on his latest on April 15th when coming from midfield to run on for 4th. He comes up slightly in the weights but draws well and may be ridden a little further forward a little earlier today. (6) MAGIC MOCCASIN and (2) EURO GANGJA among others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(1) Wonpyeong Chukje (5) Saeroun Bitkkal (4) Dalmaji (6) Magic Moccasin
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Weak maiden to kick off the south coast action. (4) YEONGGWANGUIHAMSUNG didn’t exactly pull up trees on debut over this distance on March 24th, but he ran well enough for 6th of twelve in a time a full second faster than any of the others have achieved for the 1200M and that’s enough to make him the pick here. (2) WORLD BEST CAT showed improvement when 5th at start number two over this distance on April 7th. She has raced on pace in both her starts so far and from a good gate, she can do the same here. There is two debut-makers and (7) LUCKY BAND put in a fair trial three weeks ago. He couldn’t ask for a softer race to debut in and can be considered for a money finish first-up, probably racing on the speed. (8) HAPPY BRIANNA and (5) NAMYANG DORI may improve.

Selections(4) Yeonggwanguihamsung (2) World Best Cat (7) Lucky Band (8) Happy Brianna
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

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

(8) CLAIR BEST has seven top-five finishes from nine starts and enters off a smart 3rd place at this class over 1200M on April 1st. He comes up 1.5kg in the weights but could well be on the speed here and can potentially go all the way. (3) HUIMANG OREUM too comes in off a last start 3rd, in her case over this distance and defying odds of in excess of 30/1. She carries the same weight, draws well, and will warrant more respect here. (9) YONGCHEON JISANG is another last start 3rd. He was a winner at this level over 1200M two starts back, and while he carries 3kg more than when he won, he can settle back and be a danger late on. (2) KKANGDORI and the up in class last start winner (7) ACE TIARA are among others to keep safe.

(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 6)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00, Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Seven fillies and a colt in this maiden. (1) SMARTY GLORY led for much of the way around on her latest start in February over 1300M, ultimately finishing 3rd. She has since been back to trial which she won in good style in late March. She comes slightly back in trip and has solid claims here. (2) SONGAM NURI enters after a best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on April 8th when settling midfield and running on. She continues under a 4kg allowance so is nicely in again and can aim for a repeat. (7) SAMBA ZONE races for the first time since last November. She has the fastest time among these to her name and while she didn’t offer too many clues when trialling in mid-April, on her old form she should be competitive in this company. (8) SHOOT UP SPARK and (5) TAEPYEONGMU other placing chances.

Selections(1) Smarty Glory (2) Songam Nuri (7) Samba Zone (8) Shoot Up Spark
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens. (1) SSEULMO looks to have figured things out with a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, both at this distance and both times having led for much of the way around. He should be on the speed again and can go one better here. (9) CHEONJI SKY ran an improved 3rd at start number two over this distance on March 11th. He settled midfield and ran on that day but in this company may be able to get a more forward position and can go close again. (2) MY ONE has hinted at ability in his latest two outings, running on well for 4th and 5th over this distance. He has the fastest final furlong average time among these and should be a danger late on. (3) GEUMSEONG REVERE and (8) PURPLE SHINHWA others who have shown encouraging signs.

Selections(1) Sseulmo (9) Cheonji Sky (2) My One (3) Geumseong Revere
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

(3) EVERY CHARM ran out a good winner over this distance on March 18th, stalking the leader throughout before finishing well. She comes up in class here but comes into a better gate and there could be more to come. (2) WALGADAK got her maiden win over 1200M in January and comes in off a 3rd place at this class over that same distance on April 9th when from a wide gate she sat right at the back for most of the way before making good progress late on. From a much better draw, she should be much closer this time and is a danger. That will mean overturning the form on (7) HANGANG HERO, who ran 2nd in that April 9th race, running on from midfield. That was an uptick in form on recent starts and while she remains a maiden, she looks nicely in again here. (5) TOGETHER WAY and (4) BARAMGWA HAMKKE, the latter having trialled nicely twice since his latest appearance, are others in the frame.

Selections(3) Every Charm (2) Walgadak (7) Hangang Hero (5) Together Way
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 9

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

(9) K N GOLDEN KING got his maiden win at start number three over this distance on April 8th when making all. He was favourite that day after two decent showings in his first two starts, and while he comes up in class here, he will be fancied to win again. (5) MAUIWAY got his maiden win in dominant fashion back in January and has since acquitted himself well with a 5th and a 3rd in two tries at this class. He has raced well from on pace and from behind, and he should be going close again. (10) SMARTY FIGHTER is another up in class following a last start maiden win, in his case over this distance on April 2nd when stalking the lead and running on. He too should measure up at this level. (1) DONGHAENG FIRST remains winless but comes up in class after near-misses in each of her first four appearances. From a good draw, she can be on pace and competitive. (6) DESK TAP among others in the minor money frame.

Selections(9) K N Golden King (5) Mauiway (10) Smarty Fighter (1) Donghaeng First
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(6) PERFECT GUN MAN ran out a class and distance winner on April 1st, settling just off the pace before finishing strongly. He had three of today’s rivals behind and as he only comes up 1kg in the weights, he is the one to beat again. (11) FEDERAL KING ran 2nd in that April 1st race, settling right back and then finishing well. The wide draw isn’t an issue as he’ll go back anyway, and he can be running on strong and into the money again. (7) GOMANARU was 3rd in that race having also settled back in the field. There was barely a length between the three of them and the rematch today could be just as close. If you don’t like the form from that race, then (1) THUNDER HORSE, 2nd two starts back at class and distance, and (3) BUL HWASAN, are among alternatives.

(more…)

KRA Cup Mile Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (April 30)

The 2023 Triple Crown gets underway on Sunday when a full field of sixteen line up for the KRA Cup Mile at Busan. See here for a full preview of the big race. The Cup Mile is the last of 6 races at Busan which run from 11:00 to 15:45. There is also an 11 race meeting at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Something Lost won the Sports Seoul Classic Trial (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1:  Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (7) YEOLJEONG ARGO was a much-improved 2nd at start number four over this distance on April 1st. She led almost the entire way around, ultimately going down narrowly but in a time as quick as any have managed in this field. A similar run can see her win this. The main danger is (10) MY THUNDER. She ran an on-pace 3rd on debut at this trip on March 25th and while the draw is slightly wider than ideal, she should have enough early speed to get to a prominent position. (8) TUHON TEUKGEUP has hinted at ability across two starts so far and has a time for the distance equal to that of Yeoljeong Argo. That is enough to bring her firmly into placing contention in this company. (3) AKKAENGI and debut-maker (2) SARYEONI BULLET are others with minor money hopes.

Selections(7) Yeoljeong Argo (10) My Thunder (8) Tuhon Teukgeup (3) Akkaengi
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens and seven of the twelve are racing for the very first time. We’ll take a chance on a couple of those debutantes, firstly (3) ROSE BLADE. He ran on well in his trial to stop the clock in a decent time and while the heat was perhaps a little fast due to the presence of a class 1 horse (Domination), if he brings that form to the races, he can go well first-up. (7) HAENGBOK CHUKJE went even quicker in her trial when crossing the line 2nd having sat handy throughout. That was back in February so it has taken her a while to get race-ready, but she could be worth the wait here. (9) SUCCESS SHOW ME was a little slower in his trial, but he beat a couple of these in the process and that’s enough to have him in the frame here. Turning to the experienced ones, (2) CHEONGMAUI JILJU and (10) HAERANG JANGGUN are the most likely to improve.

Selections(3) Rose Blade (7) Haengbok Chukje (9) Success Show Me (2) Cheongmaui Jilju
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies with two of the ten racing for the first time. (2) PHOENIX CLASS is the one to beat having followed up a positive trial with a good 2nd place on debut over 1200M on February 25th when on pace throughout. She should have come on for that run, she draws well here, and she can lead all the way this time.  (1) MENI CHARM was a much-improved 2nd at start number four on April 2nd when ridden on pace for the first time. She was well-beaten by a good winner but can put in a bold showing again today. Those two look head and shoulders above the rest although (5) BARAMUI HYANGGI does have a 3rd place to her name and that alone is enough the give her at least a placing chance in this company. Debut-maker (10) BOREUM DALBIT went through two trials in fair times and couldn’t wish for a softer race to debut in. (4) RUBY AGAIN another in the minor hunt.

Selections(2) Phoenix Class (1) Meni Charm (5) Baramui Hyanggi (10) Boreum Dalbit
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(11) HEARTBREAKER has two 3rd places from his four starts so far including his most recent on April 9th when sitting handy all the way over 1300M. He comes up in trip and what with there being an absence of early speed in this race, the wide draw shouldn’t stop him from finding a good position. He has as good a chance as any. The rise in trip may suit (3) VELOCIRAPTOR. She’s worked through the line well in her latest two appearances, finishing 3rd both times at 1200M. From a good gate, Jeon Jin-gu can pick his spot and finish well. (7) TTANBONG QUEEN significantly improved when tried at 1400M on March 24th, securing her best finish to date in 2nd in a good time. She too may benefit from a further raise in journey today. (4) HAENGBOKAN GIL and (5) STAR DRAGON among others in the placing frame.

Selections(11) Heartbreaker (3) Velociraptor (7) Ttanbong Queen (4) Haengbokhan Gil
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(1) SAVANA CHARLIE will be the favourite here. He has run 4th in both his latest two at 1300M and 1400M, coming from off the pace both times. This is not an especially intimidating field and similar efforts to those two should see him win. The main danger is (8) ZEROBAEK FIVE. She may be yet to finish in the top-two in thirteen attempts, but she has picked up minor money finishes in comparable company before, including last time when an on-pace 5th. She is one-paced but that should be enough to see her on the board here. (10) HERO QUEEN does have at least a 3rd place finish to her name. In this company, she should be passing plenty late on if not already on pace. (9) RED TAEPUNG and (4) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER are others who can be considered for the minors.

Selections(1) Savana Charlie (8) Zerobaek Five (10) Hero Queen (9) Red Taepung
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) YEONGGWANGUI ACE comes in having run 3rd to Betelgeuse in the Busan Classic Trial over this distance on March 19th, just over four-lengths behind the KRA Cup Mile favourite. He skips the Cup Mile and comes here instead and from a good draw and under a light weight, he is the one to beat. The main danger will break from the adjoining gate. (5) GRAND SUN returned from eleven months out to win over 1300M at class 5 level in February before running 2nd in a double-quick time over this class and distance on March 24th, starting slowly and settling back before running on. Third-up this preparation, he can be peaking fitness-wise, and he has strong claims. (1) K.AI enters off a good 4th place over 1200M on March 19th and from a much better gate can match or better that here. (2) B.K. NEW MOON is up 3kg in weight following a rather unexpected class and distance win at the end of March but shouldn’t be dismissed. (3) MAN OF THE STAR among others in the frame.

Selections(4) Yeonggwangui Ace (5) Grand Sun (1) K.Ai (2) B.K. New Moon
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

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

(1) COMPLETE FORCE gets the nod here. He comes in off a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, both over class and distance and both times overcoming wider gates to get to a forward position. He does come up in weight here but that’s balanced by a better draw, and he is the one to beat. (7) BARAMUI GEOM returned from five months out to run 3rd at class and distance on April 2nd, racing handy and briefly hitting the lead in the straight. He should strip fitter for that run and should go close here. (5) NEVER AGAIN comes up in class following a maiden win at 1200M on March 26th when coming from off the pace. He’s going to need to go quicker in this company, but he comes down in weights and still has scope for improvement. (10) SECRET PLAY and (9) DANDI among others in the money frame.

(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 29)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden to open with. (2) YAMUJIN SAEGANGJA has run fairly in her latest two, most recently leading for much of the way around 1300M on April 1st and ultimately finishing 4th of eight in a fair time. Slightly back in trip, she can be on pace again and has as good a chance as any. The probably betting favourite is (4) WHITE WITCH. That’s on the back of her very close 2nd place at this distance on March 26th when she overcame gate ten to race on pace. She comes into a better gate today, she should be on the speed again, and she could go one better. (1) SILVER PURGE won a February trial before running a fair 5th on debut at this distance on March 12th. She should have come on for that run and can go closer here. (6) TWO ACE and (7) HANGANG POWER others with minor money hopes.

Selections(2) Yamujin Saegangja (4) White Witch (1) Silver Purge (6) Two Ace
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Seven fillies and two colts in this maiden. (3) SOARA MEME will be a warm favourite having improved to 2nd at start number two on March 19th when slowly away from a wide draw before running on strongly. She comes into a much better gate so may be ridden forward and she should prove too strong. (9) BEST PLAN is yet to finish in the top-two in nineteen attempts but does have seven finishes between 3rd and 5th to her name. She enters with recent form reading positively and a career-best finish isn’t out of the question here. (1) RAON JUMP was a close 4th at this distance on April 2nd, equalling her best finish so far. She tends to get a bit far back in her races before running on too late, but she has a strong finish and if she can be withing striking distance at the top of the straight, she can go close. (4) CHALLANHAN BULKKOT and (5) FIRST CHOUX others to consider for the places.

Selections(3) Sorara Meme (9) Best Plan (1) Raon Jump (4) Challanhan Bulkkot
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens and quite a few look ready to win. After stumbling and throwing his jockey in the home straight two starts back having worked hard to get forward from the widest gate and then tiring, (7) DAEJANGBYEOL returned to run a close 3rd over this distance on March 18th when settling back and running on well. Similar tactics could prevail here and Johan climbing on is a plus. (9) FIRST USER improved to 2nd at start number two on March 25th when settling handy and running on. Despite the draw, she should be on or close to the pace again and can be a danger. (4) HALLSTATT has two placings from four starts including a runner-up finish on his latest over this distance when he led for much of the way. He’s had eleven weeks off since and should be competing for the early lead again. (6) CLUB D has come from midfield to run 2nd and 3rd in his latest two and should be running on again. (5) JEONGSANG HIT ran a creditable 4th on debut and can build on that here.

Selections(7) Daejangbyeok (9) First User (4) Hallstatt (6) Club D
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (2) DUSON CLASSIC remains a maiden after nine attempts but has six top-three finishes and enters off a close 2nd place at class and distance on March 25th when settling just behind the speed and running on well. Coming into filly and mare only company, she comes up 2.5kg in the weights, but a similar run here will see her hard to hold out. (3) WIDAEHAN HANMA got her maiden win over this distance in January and has since run 2nd in two tries at this class over 1400M and most recently at this distance on March 19th when she only went down by a neck. Her time in that race was as quick as any of these have recorded over the distance and she looks a serious chance here. (7) RAON CITY GIRL was a somewhat unexpected maiden winner over 1200M on March 19th. She comes up in class but remains nicely weighted and can measure up. (8) GALSAEK HYANGGI and (5) OKDONG GONGJU others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(2) Duson Classic (3) Widaehan Hanma (7) Raon City Girl (8) Galsaek Hyanggi
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 11

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

(2) COMPLETE LEVEL won on debut last August over 1000M before following up with a runner-up finish at class and distance in September. He then had a series of small injuries and illness that kept off the track, but he returned to full training again in mid-March and looked very well when 2nd in a trial earlier this month when settling back and running on in a quick time on a wet track. He’ll need this but if he shows any of his original form, he can win first-up. (8) SUNGAN TOUCH enters with his recent form reading very consistently, most recently a close 2nd place at class and distance on March 18th when ridden on pace. He can settle just behind the lead here and can run into some money again. (3) ULTRA SOCKS was 3rd in that March 18th race, just a neck behind Sungan Touch. From a good gate expect him to be challenging for the lead again and to be in this a long way. (9) BEST FALCON and (5) BICHUICA are among others in at least the placing frame.

(more…)