Seoul

KRA Cup Classic Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 26)

There is no racing next week what with the short summer break, but we go out with a bang with the KRA Cup Classic (2000M KOR-G2) headlining a 10-race (10.35 to 17.55) card at Seoul. There are also 7 races at Busan from 11.25 to 16.55. Here are the previews:

Success Baekpa won the KRA Cup Classic a year ago (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but two racing for the first time, but the experience is good. (4) YONGBI SINSEONG was 2nd on debut, coming from off the pace after a very slow start over this distance on June 20th. He should have come on for that run and with a better start, he can go one better. (2) LEGEND MONSTER was a solid 3rd on debut over this distance on June 27th, settling midfield and running on. He comes into a much better gate, and he too should have derived benefit from that debut experience. As for the first timers, (10) SAMJEONG CHEF went through two trials, finishing 2nd in both. He should be nice and fit first-up and can have a say. (8) MYEONG POWERFUL and (11) POWER RACER others who hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(4) Yongbi Sinseong (2) Legend Monster (10) Samjeong Chef (8) Myeong Powerful
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) PIEONARI has raced three times and has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, both at this distance. He was the beaten favourite last time out on June 20th when he just got a bit further back early than in his prior two runs, but if he can be a bit handier today, he can win. (8) CHAOS registered back-to-back 3rd place finishes at the start of the year, leading both times. She hasn’t raced since March, but she looked well when running 2nd in a trial earlier this month in a good time, and she can be a danger first-up. (1) JEONGMUN KINGDOM was a much-improved 3rd at start number two when leading on June 14th over this distance. He can be on pace again and in this a long way. (10) NURI DOLPUNG and debut-maker (11) ILSAN SNIPER are others in the frame.

Selections(5) Pieonari (8) Chaos (1) Jeongmun Kingdom (10) Nuri Dolpung
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) THUNDER WAVE was an improved 5th at start number two over 1000M on June 26th coming from off the pace in a race where everything was blown away by debut-maker Seraph. Seo Seung-un climbs on for the first time and the step up in trip could suit very well. (10) RUBY GONGJU has a 5th and a 6th from two starts so far with the second of those coming in the June 26th race when beaten just a neck by Thunder Wave. Third-up she can be peaking and she can go much closer today. (7) OASIS ROSE debuted fairly enough in midfield on June 19th over 1000M. He should have come on for that, and he is another who may like the extra furlong. Debut-maker (1) SEOBULINA, along with (2) WILD CHAMP, the latter another out of that June 26th race, are others to consider.

Selections(8) Thunder Wave (10) Ruby Gongju (7) Oasis Rose (1) Seobulina
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight / KRW 30 Million

(6) DELTA EAGLE didn’t do much in her first two outings, but she comes in here having run 3rd at the end of May over 1300M, and then 2nd on June 28th at 1400M, both times coming from off the pace. She beat a couple of today’s rivals last time and she can beat them all here. (4) BEST A ONE similarly enters having run 3rd and 2nd in her latest two appearances, both at this distance and both times having been ridden much closer to the pace than in her previous outings. Expect similar tactics today from a good draw, and she can be in the finish again. (5) PNS GUNS completes a trio of last start runners-up, in her case over this distance on July 5th when on pace. Maia stays on and she can be close again. (10) BULGEUN YEOJEONSA and (1) GRAND COURAGE others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Delta Eagle (4) Best A One (5) PNS Guns (10) Bulgeun Yeojeonsa
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) GOLD ROGER has never finished outside of the top six with her best being a 2nd place over 1400M three starts back when handy throughout. She was a beaten favourite on her latest, which was her first try at a mile on June 19th when she was awkwardly away and much further back than usual. Seo Seung-un is on and with a better start here this time, she can make her breakthrough. (6) BEOLMAUI GEOIN did absolutely nothing in his first seven starts but patience appears to be paying off as he has a 3rd, a 2nd and a 4th from his latest three with the 2nd at this distance in that June 19th race, and he can be close here. (3) SO FAST was 4th on her first try at this distance on June 26th and can match or better that here. (10) MORE QUICKLY and (9) HAENGBOK TREE other place chances.

Selections(2) Gold Roger (6) Beolmaui Geoin (3) So Fast (10) More Quickly
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 25)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10.35 to 17.55. Here are the previews:

Derby winner Hwang Geom Eo Jjang is back on Saturday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

(5) MIGHTY HUNKY is a Seo Hong-soo trained debutante by Happy Saver that trialled twice in April for a second and a victory. The score was by four-lengths and considering the second placed horse in that trial Major Fury has subsequently had two races for two wins this colt should be extremely hard to beat indeed. (8) MAHO was an odds-on chance on his debut and was a seven-length second behind a smart looking type. He may very well be able to go one better. (3) SAUDI SOCKS has six-and-three-quarter lengths to find with Maho from that race but rates next over Jung Ho-ik prepared Caracaro newcomer (4) GARAKAI with (7) MIGHTY HUSH and (2) SUPREME DIA best of the rest.

Selections(5) Mighty Hunky (8) Maho (3) Saudi Socks (4) Garakai
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) BREEDO GALAXY comes off a last start second where he was only beaten a half-length and had been just behind the placegetters at his previous two runs so he will go close again. (10) ROAD TO PERFECT has only missed the top five on one occasion from seven starts so with that sort of record rates as a chance. (1) ILGEUP BISUL has almost seven-lengths to find with Breedo Galaxy from their last runs a month ago but rates next whilst (11) DONGBAEK has been consistent enough to be given a hope. (3) LOVELY JACKPOT is best of the rest over (7) SEOBU KING.

Selections(8) Breedo Galaxy (10) Road To Perfect (1) Ilgeup Bisul (11) Dongbaek
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) LAVITA has been close-up in three of her five runs whilst being well out the back in the other two. If putting her best foot forward she can prove hard to beat. (5) QUEENS TIGER has been beaten five-lengths into third and fifth in two runs so that form is more than good enough and Seo Seung-un is on board. (3) DREAM DIA has been a beaten favourite in each of her last three starts but will be around the mark if on song whilst (7) SONGDANG JILJU rates next over (9) ANGEL TIME and (10) P N S ME.

Selections(4) Lavita (5) Queens Tiger (3) Dream Dia (7) Songdang Jilju
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(8) FLYING SMART was a bit of an enigma in her first three starts getting out of her ground as favourite on each occasion and subsequently was not sent off favourite last time and duly got the cash. She showed early pace to lead last start, unlike any of her previous runs, and that win should have done her confidence the world of good. She has ability and can go on with the job. (11) GANGHAN GAMMA was behind a couple of nice winners at maiden level but after three minor placings at that grade to be promoted to one win company she only beat three home when running at this class for the first time. She can be given another chance, however. (3) MIGHTY SHINE comes off a last start second and rates as one of the each-way chances as does (4) X-TEN with (7) CUPID K and (10) GRAY GO next best.

Selections(8) Flying Smart (11) Ganghan Gamma (3) Mighty Shine (4) X-Ten
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 19)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (10 races from 10.35 to 17.55) and at Busan (10.25 to 16.55). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with seven of the eleven racing for the first time. The experience is generally good, but we have an eagerly awaited debut-maker in the form of (1) CLUTCH DERBY. He was an easy trial winner, leading all the way and stopping the clock in a fast time and if he brings that form to the races, he wins.  Helpfully for us, three of the ones who have raced before debuted together over 1000M on June 13th. (10) GEOLJAK RUBY was the best of them in 2nd place finishing well having previously won a trial, and the step up in trip can suit. (5) CHEONDUNGUIBULKKOT and (8) NEWBAL SOCKS were 3rd and 4th respectively in that race and both can have come on for their runs. Returning to the newcomers, (11) ECLIPSE GOLDEN trialed up fairly behind the experienced JD Gangja, and is another who can make an immediate impact.

Selections(1) Clutch Derby (10) Geoljak Ruby (5) Cheondunguibulkkot (8) Newbal Socks
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) BLUE RIBBON has made solid progress across three starts so far with his latest being his best when 3rd over 1400M and ridden further forward earlier than in his first two. That was back at the engining of May, so he has had eleven weeks off, but he can win here. Probably betting favourite will be (11) DAEDONGYONGMA. That follows a much-improved 2nd over this distance on June 13th when on pace throughout. He has the challenge of the widest gate here but won’t need to improve much, if at all, on that effort to having winning chances. (5) HERO DRAGON has hinted at figuring things out in her latest couple, and she gets a 4kg claim here. (2) VIVA CISSIMO and (8) NIGHT CAPTAIN are others with the potential to improve.

Selections(3) Blue Ribbon (11) Daedongyongma (5) Hero Dragon (2) Viva Cissimo
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) GYEONGBOK PORTAS has been getting closer over his latest couple with a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two, most recently at this distance on June 5th. He doesn’t get an apprentice claim today but Park Jae-I climbing on for Kim Hye-sun suggests that he is ready to win. (10) OASIS KINGDOM has also been getting closer and took a big leap last time out at start four when a close 2nd over 1200M on June 12th. A previous try at this trip wasn’t great but he should be ready for another crack here. Those two are the standouts though (3) ONE PLUS ONE does have a 2nd place on his record and that’s enough to have him on a place line here. (9) OVER RAINBOW and (4) SMART YULIM others who could compete for the minors.

Selections(2) Gyeongbok Portas (10) Oasis Kingdom (3) One Plus One (9) Over Rainbow
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) PALPALNARA did nothing in four starts across the turn of the year but returned from over four months out on June 21st to run a much-improved 2nd over this distance, showing on pace throughout. She should strip fitter for the that run and she can go one better today. (8) WHITE JACKPOT didn’t do much on debut at the end of May but was a strong 2nd at start number two on June 27th over this distance, showing on pace and beating a couple of today’s rivals. He can be a danger here. (4) SONNY K came from off the pace to run 4th on debut in May before finishing 2nd when handy throughout on June 7th and he will have plenty of backers to go close again. (6) VICAR DELLA and (7) TWOTWO MAGIC others who can compete for the places.

Selections(1) Palpalnara (8) White Jackpot (4) Sonny K (6) Vicar Della
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive race. (5) WONDERFUL MUD has been quietly getting closer and most recently ran 3rd over 1300M on June 21st, settling midfield and running on. Franco gets on for the first time, and she may well be available at an each-way price. (3) GAON PERFECT has finished no worse than 4th in four starts so far with a 2nd place over this distance two outings back his best. He can settle just behind the speed and run on, and he can be in the finish again. (7) DUBAI DREAM was 4th to Wonderful Mud’s 3rd on June 21st. That was his first run since last November so he can strip fitter here and has every chance of going closer. (1) DOCTOR QUE SERA and (2) THANKYOUFORTHETIME are the other main chances.  

Selections(5) Wonderful Mud (3) Gaon Perfect (7) Dubai Dream (1) Doctor Que Sera
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 18)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

(7) BONBON TIARA comes from the Tony Castanheira stable which has produced some impressive debutante winners in recent weeks so with this filly by Old Fashioned having had the one trial for a second beaten a nose there is every chance she can be another newcomer winner for the French trainer. (1) GRAND POKPUNG has not been far away in two race starts and can close under Ruan Maia from the lowest draw. (8) WHIZ CROWN will be looking to give former champion jockey Moon Se-young his first winner with his sixth runner as a trainer and can do so as she finished fourth in her one and only trial in May. (6) A. K SUN and (9) ROAD SOCKS both won trials on June 25 and rate next over (4) MIGHTY MULAN with (3) NAREUSYA LUNA not hopeless.

Selections(7) Bonbon Tiara (1) Grand Pokpung (8) Whiz Crown (6) A.K Sun
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) SAEROUN BISUL comes off a nose trial victory on June 18 where he defeated Bonbon Tiara, who looks hard to beat in Race 1. He chased home some start types in his three juvenile starts last year and his most recent race in November where he split Mr. Taeyang, subsequent Group Two runner-up, and Comeback Holymoely, subsequent multiple winner, is the best form on offer in this maiden by a long shot. (1) AMOS JEONSA did nothing in his first trial in June but looked good when leading throughout to win last week by four-lengths so on that this debutante by Race Day rates as the danger. (2) MY DOLPUNG was a beaten odds-on chance on debut but was not far away and can go close again. (10) DU UM, (11) BIBA CHARM and the second of the newcomers (8) WONPYEONG DREAM are next best.

Selections(5) Saeroun Bisul (1) Amos Jeonsa (2) My Dolpung (10) Du Um
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) DAEBI MAMA has been beaten a long way in two of her three starts however those two runs were against good opposition including at Group Three level last time in the last leg of the Korean Triple Tiara for three-year-old fillies. Her second-place effort to Purple Korea at the second of her three starts to date would give her a good chance in this. (4) INSPIRE has been consistent enough so far without winning and strikes a winnable maiden to go close in. (10) SAMJEONG BLUE has been just behind the placegetters of late and can be around the mark once more. (1) GRAY PHANTOM, (6) DELTA CHOEGANG and (8) LUGE rate next.

Selections(3) Daebi Mama (4) Inspire (10) Samjeong Blue (1) Gray Phantom
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) ARION QUEEN CAR is by far the most untrustworthy commodity in this field, but she is also the one with by far the most ability on her day. She has refused to race in effectively two of her past four starts with the other two runs yielding a good second splitting The Excellent and Raon Blaide, subsequent winner, but also a disappointing seventh. She gets the nod on her best ability, but just the same she is far from a safe bet. (4) GOLDEN VENTUS is a two-year-old that won on debut on June 13 and with just fifty-one-and-half kilograms on his back he must be given a strong chance. (6) TIGER MANGCHI came from the other side of Seoul when winning on his debut and whilst that was a bizarre race in many ways, he would have to be given a hope on that effort. (11) SEVEN KAISER has been the most consistent of the raced brigade in the line-up that have never won and rates over (7) BEOLGYO EMPEROR and (1) MUHAN ARGO.

Selections(2) Arion Queen Car (4) Golden Ventus (6) Tiger Mangchi (11) Seven Kaiser
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 12)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (10 races from 10.35 to 17.55) and at Busan (7 races from 11.25 to 16.55). There are no Listed or Graded races or even class 1 events, but there is still plenty to get stuck into. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with seven of the eleven racing for the first time. (4) MORNING CHIEF was the best of the newcomers in trials, racing handy for a close 3rd in a decent time. From a central gate she should be prominent early and she can win. Of the experienced ones, (7) WONDER GRACE was the most convincing on debut when he came from gate ten to sit midfield and run-on for a not too distance 6th. He can strip fitter for that run and have an edge on plenty here. (8) SEVEN FORCE took a few goes to qualify but looked well enough when he did and can be given a chance.  (11) UNICORN ACE and (10) CITY OF DREAM others who hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(4) Morning Chief (7) Wonder Grace (8) Seven Force (11) Unicorn Ace
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Seven fillies and one gelding in this maiden. (1) STORM CRUSH was 2nd at start two over this distance in April before putting in an ordinary effort on June 7th over 1300M. We’ll draw a line through that and back at 1200M, he can break through. The sole gelding is (6) RAON EXTREME, He debuted all the way back last November, running 3rd over 1200M after which he had surgery for a chip fracture. During his time out he was gelded and he finally returned to work in May. He led in his June trial before finishing midfield and can be competitive. (4) NINE SPEAR recorded back-to-back 4th places at 1300M in May and early June before parting company with her jockey coming out of the gates on June 20th and galloping around herself. So long as she came out of that ok, she should match or better those 4th places. (5) WINNER NAMCHON and (7) LOVING PURPLE others in the frame.

Selections(1) Storm Crush (6) Raon Extreme (4) Nine Spear (5) Winner Namchon
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) SWEET MAN has made steady progress across four starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at this distance on June 5th when ridden much handier than in previous runs. Expect similar tactics here and he has every chance of going one better. (7) LOOKS GOOD enters off a best to date 3rd place at 1300M on June 28th when close to the pace throughout. She makes a quick return here and should be challenging for the lead from the start. (3) SHINING CLUTCH has got a bit far back in his races but gets a 2kg claim today and going on his 4th place at 1200M two outings back, has to be given a chance to improve in this company. (9) RESPECTING GIRL and (5) BORYEONG THE QUEEN other place chances.

Selections(4) Sweet Man (7) Looks Good (3) Shining Clutch (9) Respecting Girl
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

One debut-maker here and (5) MR. DOR certainly caught the eye in his trial, settling back before pulling away to cross the line seven-lengths to the good. The way he finished off suggests that 1400M can suit first up and he can win. (1) CLAIR FREEDOM looks to be figuring things out with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, showing on pace both teams and beating a couple of these in the process. In the absence of much early pace in this race, she can get an easy run to the lead and can be in the finish. (2) CLUB MAN was a much-improved 2nd at start six over 1700M on June 21st. He has raced handy in each of his last two and back in trip should do the same with every chance of another place. (9) WONDERFUL DARSHAAN and (7) ROAD TO SPEAR others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Mr. Dor (1) Clair Freedom (2) Club Man (9) Wonderful Darshaan
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 11)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10.35 to 17.55. Here are the previews:

New cafe open in the Seoul Racecourse infield park (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

(7) GRAND PAS CLASSIC trialled well prior to his first race with a front-running four-length success before a decent second on debut. He was one-and-three-quarter lengths and one place ahead of the reopposing (6) HOPE K that day and can confirm the form. However, it would be no surprise if the latter were to reverse the deficit. He won his trial prior to his first start by ten-lengths where he led throughout. Both horses raced a bit greenly when taking each other on in their debuts and the one that races the most generously will win. They will be the two favourites by a fair way. (9) MIGHTY SAVER was fourth behind these two horses in the same race on debut and rates next over (8) CASTELLA, which is an Australian bred debutante by Prince Fawaz, (5) CLASSIC AUTUMN and (4) DAEHANUI YEONGUNG.

Selections(7) Grand Pas Classic (6) Hope K (9) Mighty Saver (8) Castella
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) KATARINARA has trialled twice for a seventh on May 7 before making up ground for second on June 25 beaten four-lengths. She was ridden by Ruan Maia in the most recent of those trials and he retains the ride for her first race and is the one to beat on that trial effort in a very winnable event. (8) POINT I has not been far away in three runs to date and that form is more than good enough for this despite being a beaten odds-on chance last time. She has the most consistent form of the raced brigade along with (5) DELTA DAECHEON so the latter obviously also rates as a strong chance. (9) WALLSTREET has had four runs and run deplorably in three of them, but the other run saw her only beaten four-and-three-quarter lengths by Concord Blue. They are surely the only four chances with (4) ROYAL MANSE and (2) FIRENZE GOLD best of the outsiders.

Selections(7) Katarinara (8) Point I (5) Delta Daecheon (9) Wallstreet
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

(3) GOLDEN WARRIOR has been around the mark in most of her runs so in a tough race she gets the nod from an each-way perspective. A similar comment can be applied to (7) ECLAIR WIND who should also not be far away and (1) RACE DIVA must have as good a chance as any for Kozzi Asano and Tony Castanheira as she has been getting better with each start. (5) YEONDONG STAR rates next over (4) QWAEGEOL CHUNHYANG with (8) SAMJEONG YEOJE and (2) JEJU PRINCESS not hopeless either in a race where you could make a case for every runner.

Selections(3) Golden Warrior (7) Eclair Wind (1) Race Diva (5) Yeondong Star
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) BULGEUN POKPUNG has been second in two of his past four with one of those runner-up finishes being a one-and-three-quarter length defeat behind subsequent Derby fifth placegetter Concord Codie which naturally reads as strong form for this. (1) GWANAKSAN CHAMP won on debut last year before finishing in the second half of the field in feature juvenile races. He has been knocking on the door for a win this season and could get it in this. (8) FINAL CHUKJE has been consistent enough to rate as an each-way chance. There are a lot of other hopes which include (4) MAX PARTY which could improve on recent runs and of course (5) RAON BLAIDE which has both the ability and Seo Seung-un to ride but he has a big weight as well. (10) BEAUTIFUL HWASEONG rates next.

Selections(2) Bulgeun Pokpung (1) Gwanaksan Champ (8) Final Chukje (4) Max Party
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 5)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10.35 to 17.55. And at Busan with 7 races from 11.25 to 16.55. The nation’s top sprinter, Vincero Cavallo, will step out for the first time since his defeat in May’s SROA Chairman’s Sprint in Seoul’s concluding feature race. Here are the previews:

Can Vincero Cavallo bounce back? (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) WONDERFUL TUNE UP has finished 4th on no fewer than six occasions across her twelve starts but she comes in off her best to date when 2nd on a filly maiden over 1400M on May 3rd. She’s had nine weeks off since and from a good draw, she can go one better today. (8) MR.CREDIT has a couple of 3rd places to his name and has also beaten a couple of these in his latest couple and that’s enough to have him in the numbers here. (1) COSMO JJIN ran 2nd three starts back at 1200M and was 3rd on her first try at this distance on May 10th when settling midfield and running on. She should be there or thereabouts again. (4) VALKYRIE and (6) P N S ME are the other place chances.

Selections(5) Wonderful Tune Up (8) Mr.Credit (1) Cosmo JJin (4) Valkyrie
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Not a strong maiden. (9) DONGJIN BIRYUONG ran fairly on debut for 5th of eleven in a slowly run race over 1200M on June 6th. He previously finished 2nd in a trial and having derived benefit from that first effort, he has as good a chance as any here. (8) ROAD TO PERFECT has been consistent with five of her six starts to date ending up in 4th or 5th. She likes to settle back and run on and she should be aiming to go much closer today. (6) LAVITA showed on pace last time before knocking up quickly but going on the 3rd and 4th she managed in her two previous outings, she can be given another chance. (5) SEONGSIL WINNER and (2) CHEONMA NUBI others in line for the minors.

Selections(9) Dongjin Biryuong (8) Road To Perfect (6) Lavita (5) Seongsil Winner
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) SPEED BUMP looks like she is finally figuring things out with a close 2nd place over 1200M on June 5th when racing handy throughout and beating a couple of today’s rivals. In this company she won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win. (6) DUBAI CANDY has mixed her form across his seven appearances so far but on her best, demonstrated when 3rd at 1300M in April, she is a chance here. (8) FANTASTIC ONE was a much-improved 4th at start number three behind Speed Bump in that June 5th race when coming from well off the pace. Debut-makers (1) FANTASTIC CHEETAH and (2) DAEGIL HWANHO have to be given a chance given the strength – or lack thereof – of opposition.

Selections(10) Speed Bump (6) Dubai Candy (8) Fantastic One (1) Fantastic Cheetah
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) MEGA WIND has made progress across five starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over 1300M on June 14th when settling back and running on. In this company, and from a good gate, he should be on pace, and he has every chance of going all the way. (1) THE SUPER RUNNER hasn’t quite been super just yet but he does come in off his best so far when 2nd at this distance on May 10th, leading for much of the way. He too should be up with the speed and can be in this a long way again. (5) POWERFUL ARCTIC drops back in trip following a 2nd place over 1700M on May 23rd and she shouldn’t be far away. (2) WONDERFUL CATHY and (6) PNS GUNS others in the frame.

Selections(4) Mega Wind (1) The Super Runner (5) Powerful Arctic (2) Wonderful Cathy
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

(5) JADE PALACE ran twice in early summer last year and then once in November when he managed to pick up a win over 1200M. He has had several setbacks since then but has been in regular work since May and he looked well when 2nd in a June trial. We know he can run well first-up and he is the one to beat here. (9) CHOEGANG LOUIS is yet to win in sixteen but enters off his best result at this class when 3rd at this distance on June 7th, showing handy throughout. He continues under a light weight and can aim to match or even better that here. (2) ROAD TO FIGHTER was 2nd at this class three outings ago. He can get a bit far back in his races but is a place chance here. (8) TRIPLE J and (3) PURE MARINE perhaps the best of a limited rest.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By- Race Preview (July 4)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10.35 to 17.55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

(6) G B ACE is a Luigi Riccardi prepared debutante that has had the one trial for a win on June 11 by one-length. The colt by Mr. Crow must be given the utmost of respect on debut under Furkan Yuksel. As must the Tony Castanheira trained, Kozzi Asano ridden (10) TONGKWAEHANSEUNGJA who has also had the one trial for a victory and that was also on June 11. In his case he scored by a half-length. (11) WHITE THUNDER is another that has had the solitary trial and it was also on the second Thursday of June where he finished second behind a runaway winner coming from midfield. Seo Seung-un rides the Hansen filly for Choi Yong-geon. The first three trials that were held at this venue from the eleventh of last month look to hold the key to the race with (9) GHOST SONIC another that has trialled once for a second on May 21. (7) CHEONMAUI HANSEONG rates next over (1) BLITZ CARA.

Selections(6) G B Ace (10) Tongkwaehanseungja (11) White Thunder (9) Ghost Sonic
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) BEONGAE LEWIS was an impressive twelve-length winner of his trial on June 11 and this Tony Castanheira trained three-year-old Uncaptured colt looks like he will be extremely hard to beat on his race debut. (9) GLOBAL DINO has only raced once and that was twelve months ago when finishing last but in a strong race. He finished fourth in a trial on May 14 and should be kept safe. (4) OPUS ONE has had the two trials for a sixth in November and a seventh in June. The Roshe combination of trainer Seong Sanghyun and owner Park Jae-yong combine and he should not be discarded on debut. (7) DAREURI YEOWANG has been just behind the placegetters in three runs and rates next along with (8) CHEONGGANG BOM and (5) GEUMSEONG QUEEN.

Selections(1) Beongae Lewis (9) Global Dino (4) Opus One (7) Dareuri Yeowang
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) LOVELY JACKPOT has trialled since last racing and that effort saw him split Mujehan Geup, one of the top juveniles from last season, and Aman Barows, a subsequent impressive trial winner, so in what is the toughest of the three maiden races to assess that form is good enough to go close. (6) SAENAE RANIA was a beaten odds-on chance last time but was going well enough prior to be given another chance. (9) POWER MAGIC has the been clearly the most consistent of these so in a race with little form to go on she is the safest bet in the race each-way. (1) LOOM CHUKJE might be able to improve on her debut with (5) GOD SPEED and (2) PLAY STAY best of the rest.

Selections(3) Lovely Jackpot (6) Saenae Rania (9) Power Magic (1) Loom Chukje
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

It’s Owners’ Cup day at Busan with Roshe looking to maintain his unbeaten record in the G3 feature over a mile. There are 7-races at Busan from 11.25 to 16.55 and 10 at Seoul from 10.35 to 17.55. Here are the previews:

Hangang Class won the 2025 Owners’ Cup in track record fashion (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported maidens with all but two racing for the first time. (2) MAHO went through two trials, running 2nd in a slow time in the first of them but then winning the second with an on pace effort (62.3 seconds on May 21st for those whose racecards don’t show it as it was a voluntary trial). From a great draw, if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (6) KKUMUI YEONSOK trialed up alongside some experienced horses and didn’t look out of pace as he ran a close 4th in a decent time, and he shapes as the main danger. (11) SAUDI SOCKS and (5) LUCKYRINGMAN are the pair with experience having debuted together over 1000M on May 31st finishing 5th and 6th respectively and they can both have come on for the run. (8) SPEARS is another first-time starter who hinted at ability in two trials.

Selections(2) Maho (6) Kkumui Yeonsok (11) Saudi Socks (5) Luckyringman
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Decent maiden win four of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (5) ROAD TO CHAMPION, who after a good trial, ran 2nd on debut over 1000M on May 30th, leading and only being caught late by the favourite. He should have come on for that run, he can lead again, and this time he can go one better. (4) VICAR DELLA raced handy throughout for 3rd on debut over this distance on May 16th. She too can have come on and can be even closer here. Of the first timers, (6) INTO THE GALAXY showed fairly for 2nd place in a trial just last week. So long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can go well first up. (11) NURI YEOWANG and (9) RAPID STORM, the latter disappointing on debut but previously a trial winner, are the others who will have some backing.

Selections(5) Road To Champion (4) Vicar Della (6) Into The Galaxy (11) Nuri Yeowang
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only here. After winning a trial, (4) PACHOUI KKUM was sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on May 24th and while she raced close to the pace, she ultimately had to settle for 2nd. She should have come on for that, she draws better today, and she will be expected to come out on top here. (5) MAEWU has made progress in her latest couple, most recently when 4th at this distance on May 22nd. The same apprentice keeps her weight nice and low, and she can be a danger here. (8) PILSEUNG WINNER is similarly looking as though she is figuring things out and enters off a close 2nd at this distance on May 31st when on pace. Seo Seung-un is on for the first time and she will have plenty if backers. There are a couple of debut makers and (1) SUPER CROWN performed fairly in two trials. (3) LOOKS GOOD another of the experienced ones who can improve.

Selections(4) Pachoui Kkum (5) Maewu (8) Pilseung Winner (1) Super Crown
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) CRUSH GIRL was 4th on debut and followed up with 2nd place over 1300M on May 17th. Both times she has come from off the pace, so the slight step up again can suit and third-up she can be peaking. (8) JECHUK SANJIRO has finished in the top five in all of his four starts so far and he enters off his best to date when 2nd in a slow run race over this trip on May 31st. He can sit just behind the speed here and challenge late. (5) SEMYEONG PEAK was ordinary in her first two, but she has been consistently close in six subsequent efforts, most recently when 3rd over 1700M on May 23rd. She was 4th on her previous try at this trip and should be there or thereabouts again. (10) BEST A ONE and (7) DYNAMIC FORCE others firmly in the frame.

Selections(1) Crush Girl (8) Jechuk Sanjiro (5) Semyeong Peak (10) Best A One
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) STEALTH KINGMAN was 2nd on debut over 1300M in April and then won at the same distance at start number two on May 31st, both times racing on pace. He is up in class but is down in weight, nicely drawn, and he can win again. (6) BORYEONGUIKWAESOK is never going to be beloved by racecallers, but she won her only start to date all the way back last September over 1000M. She performed fairly enough in a late May trial and under a light weight, she could pick up from where she left off. (8) WHITE OIL beat four of today’s rivals when coming home an in excess of 20/1 winner at this class and distance on May 31st. He is up 3kg in weight but warrants more respect today. (11) HEUIMANG TAYO and (4) WORLD BOLD MAN others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Stealth Kingman (6) Boryeonguikwaeseok (8) White Oil (11) Heuimang Tayo
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 27)

Saturday’s racing sees 10 races at Seoul from 10.35 to 17.55. Champion jockey Moon Se-young will have his retirement ceremony after race 5. Here are the previews:

Moon Se-young’s retirement ceremony is scheduled for Saturday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

(8) ROYAL HOPE K was third in his one and only trial on May 21 and this son of Gaon Champ prepared by Moon Byeong-ki should go close under Seo Seung-un. (7) URIUI GIPPEUM is a To Honor And Serve filly that was third in her trial on May 14 after leading and she finished well ahead of (3) BEAT STAR who subsequently trialled again on May 21 and led throughout to score by nine-lengths. Both must be given the utmost of respect. (11) LEGEND MONSTER is a stablemate of Uriui Gippeum and under CC Wong rates next over (6) POWERFUL MR. and the Luigi Riccardi trained (2) K SOCKS. (5) GRAND POKPUNG should not be denied a chance either.

Selections(8) Royal Hope K (7) Uriui Gippeum (3) Beat Star (11) Legend Monster
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) BIBA CHARM produced a good effort when first-up for ten months on June 13 coming from well back to run third. She can improve from that run and can go a few places better. (11) QUEENS TIGER ran well on debut similarly coming from well back and with some luck from the draw can go close. (1) WHITE JACKPOT was down the track on his debut but may be able to get an enjoyable time in front in a race where it is hard to work out where the early speed will come from. The extra 100M will not hurt (3) TOO BIRD HIT going on her debut run and she rates next over (4) GEOLJAK CROWN and (7) BULGEUN YEOJEONSA.

Selections(2) Biba Charm (11) Queens Tiger (1) White Jackpot (3) Too Bird Hit
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) KING SPICY has been the most consistent of these except for his debut run in September. Despite the wide draw he strikes a winnable race following his last start third place and can score. (1) THE QUEEN ROSE also comes off the best result of her career with a third at the beginning of this month when leading for most of the way. She can go close if able to hold her own from the inside which she should. (8) AREUMDAUN BIT has been close at her last two runs and rates next over (10) JISAN FOREVER, a debutante by Chrysolite, (4) ILGEUP BISUL and (2) SAMJEONG BLUE.

Selections(11) King Spicy (1) The Queen Rose (8) Areumdaun Bit (10) Jisan Forever
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(4) ARION QUEEN CAR has her quirks but also has ability and if she can be on her best behaviour she should be able to go close to recording her second victory. She almost refused to race when resuming from a two-month ban, for refusing to race, in March before picking up late for third and then chased home a smart horse last start. If she can learn how to be a racehorse she does have a future. (11) NUNI OLKKAYO is another smart enough type on his day that resumed with a second a month ago at this level beaten a neck. He was considered good enough to be close in the market to subsequent Derby winner Hwang Geum Eo Jang when taking him on in the winter and rates highly. (2) MONEY MOVE has done little wrong in three starts and broke through most recently. (6) STUNNING CALIBER was a thirteen-length winner of his maiden over course and distance last start and must be respected as should (7) WONPYEONG GANGJA, under Seo Seung-un, and (8) BREEDO CALEY in a decent race for the grade.

Selections(4) Arion Queen Car (11) Nuni Olkkayo (2) Money Move (6) Stunning Caliber
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / Horse Racing Crown Prince Moon Se-young’s Retirement Commemorative Race / (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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