Seoul

Breeders’ Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 24)

Two big races at Busan on Sunday with the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie to decide the year’s champion Korean bred juvenile, as well as the Listed Breeders’ Cup Queen, the final leg of the Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares. There are 6 races at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05, and 11 at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Wonderful Slew (Pic: KRA)

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

Small field of juvenile maidens with six of the eight racing for the first time. (8) SEMYEONG DIA will be the warm favourite. She’s raced twice, improving from 7th on debut to 2nd at start number two over this distance on October 27th when handy throughout and beaten by a good winner. She should have the fitness edge on these and will take some beating. Second favourite will be the pick of the newcomers in (5) CHAMP HAMSEONG. He raced close to the pace in his trial, crossing the line 3rd in a good time and if he brings that form to the races, can be a danger. (6) JEULGEOUN SANGSANG and (2) HANGANG FANTASTIC also hinted at ability in their respective trials and can be considered. The other one with experience, (3) LALA GIRL was sent off as favourite on debut back in August but while that didn’t go well, she can be given another chance here after thirteen weeks off.

Selections(8) Semyeong Dia (5) Champ Hamseong (6) Jeulgeoun Sangsang (2) Hangang Fantastic
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Ten imported American juvenile maidens chase a big prize with five of them racing for the first time. The experience is favoured, principally (7) TAP TIER who, after winning a trial, was a desperately close 2nd on debut over this distance on October 26th, showing on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a quick time. He should have come on for the run but won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this. (6) BREEDO SIRIS has raced twice with a 5th and a 3rd and shapes as the probable second favourite coming from off the pace. (8) DREAMER WHIZ ran 3rd on debut over 1000M and should have come on for the run. (2) MAJOR CROWN was poor on debut in September but has subsequently trialed up well and should be better this time.  As for the first timers, (9) PICTURE is the pick.

Selections(7) Tap Tier (6) Breedo Siris (8) Dreamer Whiz (2) Major Crown
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 9

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

We’ll take a chance on (11) DUSTIN MARINE. After a promising trial, he got a bit far back on debut over 1200M on October 25th before running on. The step up to 1400M can suit, and Moon Se-young, in town to ride in the feature races later on, is an intriguing booking. (9) BORYEONGLIGHTQUEEN beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place on her first try at this distance on October 27th, coming from off the pace. There isn’t much early speed here, so she may be closer to the pace this time and based on that latest effort, will probably start as the betting favourite. (3) TEAM SURPRISE was 4th in that October 27th race behind Boryeonglightqueen. She also has a 2nd place to her name and while she has a tendency to start slowly, she can be in the mix here. (10) CAPTAIN KOREA and (6) WORLD TAEYANG others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(11) Dustin Marine (9) Boryeonglightqueen (3) Team Surprise (10) Captain Korea
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

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

Small field of maidens and (5) CHEONGSAN JILJU will be favourite. He’s finished between 3rd and 5th in all of his four starts so far, with the 5th place coming in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy for juveniles. He has a strong finish on him and the slight step up in trip should mean he proves too strong. (6) RAON NIZHINSKII may be in need of a spell-check, but he improved to 3rd place at start number two on October 19th settling midfield and running on. He finished off well and is another who the additional half furlong can benefit.  (8) SPLENDID rounds out the top three with scope to get better after four fair outings so far. Sole debut-maker (4) GHOST CHRYSOL didn’t catch the eye in his trial but went around fairly and has to be given a minor money chance first up in this company. (7) MARUBYEOL too can aim for some minor money.

Selections(5) Cheongsan Jilju (6) Raon Nizhinskii (8) Splendid (4) Ghost Chrysol
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Competitive race with eight of the twelve having finished inside the top three in their respective latest outings. (6) UNJU CHALLENGE is among them, having scored her maiden win at start two at the end of September before finishing 2nd on her first try at this class and distance on October 25th. She has proven able to run well from the lead or from off the pace and she can win here. (3) NINETY PLUS ran 2nd behind the excellent Winner Clear in the Gansgeo-gu Mayor’s Trophy over 1200M on September 8th. He then had no luck from a wide draw over 1400M in October, but he evidently has plenty of quality and is worth another chance here. (11) MAKE IT BETTER won over a mile at class 6 level in September before running 2nd on October 25th. He was favourite that day and can be in the mix again. (7) ARION TAEYANG and (5) ALPHA HEART, the latter having won that October 25th race ahead of Make It Better, are others to consider.

Selections(6) Unju Challenge (3) Ninety Plus (11) Make It Better (7) Arion Taeyang
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start6, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 23)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. The experience is good though and (11) GWANAKSAN JOY shapes as a warm favourite. She’s the only one in the field to have raced twice having followed up a 4th place on debut with 2nd at start two over 1000M on October 12th, racing on pace both times. She has the challenge of a wide draw but if she can find a forward position, she may take some beating.  (7) GEUMBIT RUNNER was 3rd on debut over 1000M at the end of September, coming from well off the pace. She should have come on for the run and the additional trip can suit. (4) GEUNYANG GARA ran fairly on debut last month but went back and won a trial in fine style last week. She can be on pace and in this a long way. Of the first timers, (5) SINHAN ACE and (1) JOY LIGHT are the picks based on their trials.

Selections(11) Gwanaksan Joy (7) Geumbit Runner (4) Geunyang Gara (5) Sinhan Ace
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens. (5) ECLIPSE EDGE did nothing on debut but was a much-improved 2nd at start two on October 13th at 1200M, well beaten by a good winner but coming from midfield to finish off well. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (8) MR.STORM won a trial and was then 4th on debut over 1200M on October 27th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He should have come on for the run and can get closer here. There are two debut-makers and of them, (2) JOY CHEONHA performed well in his second trial overcoming a wide gate to run on pace and finish 2nd. That was all the way back in August, so it has taken some time for him to get to the races, but this is very amenable company to debut in. (6) ROAD TO A SPUR and (3) CHEONGHAE STAR others who may make progress.

Selections(5) Eclipse Edge (8) Mr.Storm (2) Joy Cheonha (6) Road To A Spur
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and (5) DAESEUNGMA will be a hot favourite. After an underwhelming debut, she has recorded a pair of 4th place finishes and a 3rd with the latter coming in a very similar maiden to this on October 12th. She will race on pace or handy and should have too much for this lot. (7) KYLIE has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record, both at this distance and while she has performed below expectations in her latest two, she should be able to get to the lead here and can be in this a long way. (4) DIA ROOK ran a very close 2nd at this distance two starts back and while she only put in a fair performance over 1300M a month ago, she can be given another chance. (8) CUPID HEART and (2) COMMAND BLUE other placing chances.

Selections(5) Daeseungma (7) Kylie (4) Dia Rook (8) Cupid Heart
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) GEUMA FOREMOST has made progress over three starts, culminating in 2nd place over 1300M on October 27th, well beaten by a good winner but in turn, well clear of 3rd. The slight step up in trip again can suit and he can go one better. The big danger is (1) ELDORADO HEUNGBU. He stepped up to this distance on October 27th and took to it well, running 2nd in a time quicker than any of the others here who have attempted the 1400M have achieved. He draws nicely to race handy, and he has every chance. (9) ORANGE TIME has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, at 1200M and at this distance. The widest gate shouldn’t pose a problem, and he can be close again. (3) MEGA STEP and (2) TRES VITE are others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(7) Geuma Foremost (1) Eldorado Heungbu (9) Orange Time (3) Mega Step
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

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

(8) MORE THAN JOKE was 2nd on debut before finishing down the field in the Rookie Stakes at the end of August. He came back out and got his maiden win at start number three over 1200M on October 13th, racing handy and winning well. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but he will be favoured to go back-to-back. (9) SMART MUSIC also broke through at start three over 1200M on October 26th. He has shown he has a strong finish on him, and he can measure up in this company. So too can (4) BEOLGYO GRAMMY. She got her maiden win at just the second time of asking on October 12th, leading from gate to wire. She carries a light weight and draws well to lead again. Among those with prior experience of this class, (10) YONGBISU and (6) EDENUI DONGJJOK, the latter needing a line drawn through his latest two, look the best.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 17)

Juveniles take centre-stage at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday with Listed races open to the very best young imports at both tracks. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener and (4) ECLIPSE BLACK will be a hot favourite. An extremely tough assignment on debut in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy went about as well as could be expected by the was much better when tried in regular company at 1400M on October 6th when he overcame gate ten to run 3rd. The Shackleford colt gets a much better draw this time and he should win. (11) WONDERFUL REASON was a fair 4th on debut over 1200M on October 5th when handy all the way around. He doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim this time but should have come on for the run and can be closer. (3) HAKSAN CAIRO has a 3rd and a 5th from two starts so far, coming from off the pace both times. Nicely drawn, he can sit behind the speed and run into the money. (9) DURAY SHOW and (2) HIGH CROWN are others who can improve from their debuts.

Selections(4) Eclipse Black (11) Wonderful Reason (3) Haksan Cairo (9) Duray Show
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start4, 8, 10, 11

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (8) HANGANG FASHIONED has a couple of 4th places and a fifth among four starts so far up to 1200M. The slight step up in trip can suit, and she has as good a chance as any here. She will need to overturn form though on (6) ECO WORLD, who beat her when the pair ran 4th and 5th on October 12th over 1200M. Harry stays up and from a better gate, she is a big danger. (4) HYEWONYONGMA enters off a much-improved runner-up finish when stepped up to this distance for the first time on October 19th when she led for much of the way around. A similar effort will see her very close here. (10) NESSUN DORMA and (3) GANDAGO are the other placing chances.

Selections(8) Hangang Fashioned (6) Eco World (4) Hyewonyongma (10) Nessun Dorma
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

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

Small field of juvenile maidens in the opener and (2) YOUNG SKYWALKER is the one to beat. After winning a trial, he was a smart 2nd on debut on October 13th racing on pace and going close in a quick time. He draws well to lead and will be hard to hold out. (5) MAENGNYONG was similarly 2nd on his debut which came over 1300M on October 18th when he led for most of the way, only to get passed in the final furlong. He too will be on pace and can be dangerous. Continuing with the runner-up theme, (1) FLASH RUN came from off the pace to finish 2nd on debut in a filly only maiden over 1000M on October 11th. The step up in trip can suit and she can be a danger too. Debut-maker (6) FLYING RACE ran 2nd in his trial, well beaten by an experienced horse, but hinting at ability and he can go well first-up. (7) BEOLMA KING was 3rd on debut and can build on that here.

Selections(2) Young Skywalker (5) Maengnyong (1) Flash Run (6) Flying Race
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 5

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here. We’ll give (5) RISING MO a pass on her latest which came in the Listed NACF Chairman’s Trophy for juveniles when he was slow away and always a long way back. Instead, we’ll go on her first two outings when he led from gate to wire on debut over 1000M and then was 3rd at 1300M at start number two, both in quick times. If she brings that form, she can win. (10) BRIGHT KAI comes in off a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two at 1300M and 1400M suggesting she is getting to grips with this level. The cut back in trip is a minor surprise but, in this company, she can be dangerous, settling behind the speed and running on. (3) GULJAK SUN enters off a 2nd place at class and distance in a very similar race on October 20th. She was well beaten by a good winner, but a similar effort will put her in the mix again. (6) MISS FINAL and (2) HWIPARAM are the other placing chances.

Selections(5) Rising Mo (10) Bright Kai (3) Guljak Sun (6) Miss Final
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

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

It’s hard to go past (1) MIRAGE here. After a solid trial, she ran 3rd on debut over 1200M in an all-filly maiden on October 18th, racing on pace throughout. She should have come on for that run and she won’t need to improve much – if at all – to win this. (10) FLASH DAY races for the first time since June when he ran a solid 4th over this distance. He didn’t offer too many clues in a fair trial at the end of October but on the best he has shown, he can be a danger. (6) DIA X has the fastest time among these for the distance by some margin, recorded when 7th on debut (admittedly on a week in August when the track was running the fastest it has ever been). He has trialed well since his latest race in early September and that’s enough to put him in the mix here. (3) RACE MAN and (9) PINE BLUE others who could improve in this moderate company.

Selections(1) Mirage (10) Flash Day (6) Dia X (3) Race Man
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

(2) MAGIC IMPACT has really taken to the 1700M, getting her maiden win on her first try at it at class 6 level in September before following up with a close 2nd on her class 5 debut on October 12th when she led for most of the way and had a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She carries an additional 2.5kg this time but that shouldn’t be a problem, and she will be favourite to go one better. (9) DANGDAECHOWOL is yet to win in four attempts but comes up in class following back-to-back runner up finishes over 1300M. He tackles 1700M for the first time and given his running style so far, it may well suit. (10) COMPLETE PARTY was a somewhat unexpected winner at this class over 1400M on October 13th when leading all the way. She comes up 3.5kg in the weights and is up to 1700M for the first time, but she can be competitive. (4) PURPLE SHINHWA and (7) NATURAL SOUND are the other place chances.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 16)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens with all but three racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (6) NAEGILUI YEOJEONG, who overcame a wide draw to settle handy and run on for 4th place on debut at this distance on October 13th. He should have come on for that run and from a better gate, he looks the one to beat. (10) GEOLJAK CHUKJE bled on debut over 1000M on September 14th but still managed to finish 2nd, only beaten less than a length. He came through a trial unscathed in October and can be a danger here. Turning to the first timers, (1) CHUPUNGNYEONG was the best in trials, settling just off the speed and running on for 3rd in a fair time. If he brings that form to the races, he won’t be far away. (5) GOLD QUEENS and (8) CHEONGRYONGUI CAL others who hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(6) Naegilui Yeojeong (10) Geoljak Chukje (1) Chupungnyeong (5) Gold Queens
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 11

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

(11) YEONHUI HERO was a close 2nd on debut at this distance in August and while he had a poor day at the office when favourite on September 15th, getting a difficult trip and ultimately finishing 6th, he comes in fresh here and in this modest company can be given another chance.  That modest company means we can give a chance to debut-maker (2) UPPERHAND. The Testa Matta filly went through two trials, improving in the second (which was voluntary so may not appear on all race cards, but it was on October 10th, and she was 4th in 63.7) and from a good draw she can put in a bold effort. (9) BEST SHARK improved at start number two and can so do again here. (8) BLACK RUSSIAN and (5) GRAY PHANTOM, others who can get closer.

Selections(11) Yeonhui Hero (2) Upperhand (9) Best Shark (8) Black Russian
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 10, 11

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

(6) GANGNARU ran 3rd on debut on October 27th, settling back and finishing off well over 1200M. He should have come on for the run, the step up to 1400M can suit, and he is the one to beat. (1) YEONGWON GIANT Has a best of 2nd and has picked up again in his latest two, registering a pair of 4th place finishes, most recently at this distance on October 20th when racing further forward than usual. From the inside gate, expect similar tactics today and he can be a danger. (8) BEST KINGDOM is two starts into a comeback following almost eight months out. He comes in off a useful 4th place at this distance at the end of September and can get closer here. (5) OKCHEON WIN STAR and (2) HIPPODROME are other possibles.

Selections(6) Gangnaru (1) Yeongwon Giant (8) Best Kingdom (5) Okcheon Win Star
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 10

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

(2) PROMISE began his career with a win and followed it up with a 2nd place at this class and distance on October 5th when settling midfield and running on. He struggled when sent up to 1700M two weeks ago, but back at one turn today, he can return to winning ways. (11) MARU JANGGUN is a winner of two from four so far, most recently at this class and distance on October 13th. He comes up 2.5kg and has the challenge of the widest gate, but neither should be insurmountable, and he may start as the betting favourite. (10) YEONGWON FANTASTIC comes up in class following a maiden win at start number five on October 19th over 1200M. He tackles the 1400M for the first time but is lightly weighted and he can measure up. (7) GANGCHEOL JEONSA and (6) JURING SKY other chances.

Selections(2) Promise (11) Maru Janggun (10) Yeongwon Fantastic (7) Gangcheol Jeonsa
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start6, 9, 10, 11

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 9)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with four of the eight racing for the first time. (5) STUNNING PEARL ran 3rd on debut over this distance on October 5th, settling midfield and running on, stopping the clock in a fair time. She should have come on for that run, and rates as a chance here. (2) I AM GO has raced twice, both at 1000M, and she showed ability, coming home 3rd and 2nd, having raced on pace both times. She returns here from a seventeen-week layoff so must be taken on trust somewhat, but she will probably start as favourite. (7) SWITCH POWER and to a lesser extent (8) B.K. LOVE have hinted at ability in their respective two starts and may improve stepped up to 1200M. Among the debut-makers, (4) GRACE ROUTE was the best in trials.

Selections(5) Stunning Pearl (2) I Am Go (7) Switch Power (8) B.K. Love
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

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

(4) GLOBAL SERVE ran 4th on debut in September before improving to 2nd at start number two on October 19th when he led for much of the around and was only narrowly beaten. Third-up, he can be peaking fitness wise, and from a good gate can be on pace and go all the way. (8) ORION ALPHA comes in off a 2nd place on her third start over this distance on October 12th. She too was on pace the entire way around and she shapes as the main danger. (10) SEMYEONG STRONG has shown improvement across his three appearances to date, most recently when 2nd at this distance on October 13th. He has the challenge of a wider draw this time, but his style isn’t to lead so if he can sit off the pace, he can play a part in the finish. (7) HAKSAN DAESE and (3) WANGCHOEGO among others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Global Serve (8) Orion Alpha (10) Semyeong Strong (7) Haksan Daese
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

A few chances here but (1) PROCEED gets the nod. He is yet to finish in the top two but has five finishes in the 3rd to 5th range, up to 1400M. His running style suggests that the step up to two turns for the first time can suit, and he is the one to beat. (2) GANGCHEOL DRAGON is similar in that he hasn’t troubled the quinella but has no fewer than eight top five finishes. His one previous try at this distance ended in 4th back in September and with an apprentice claiming 3kg, he should be looking to go better here. (3) POETIC NUBI comes in off back-to-back 3rd places over 1300M. He is another for whom the step up to 1400M can suit, and Maia climbing on is a plus. (5) MARUBYEOL and (4) COSMO KING the other place chances.

Selections(1) Proceed (2) Gangcheol Dragon (3) Poetic Nubi (5) Marubyeol
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

(4) AQUA LINE was a winner on debut over 1000M in September before running 2nd on his first try at this class at 1300M on October 19th. Both times he has settled right back before running on strongly, so the step up in trip can suit a nd he can win here. The danger is (3) KKUMUI HYANGGI. She’s yet to win in seven starts but has five top three finishes, including her latest on October 13th when coming from midfield to run 3rd over this distance. She has the fastest time among these for the 1400M, and she should be in the mix again. (10) ELDORADO NOLBU was a winner on debut in August and has since run 2nd and 3rd in two tries at this class. He comes from off the pace so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and he can threaten late again here. (5) MAX PARTY and (11) MOMO K will be the others backed on a place line.

Selections(4) Aqua Line (3) Kkumui Hyanggi (10) Eldorado Nolbu (5) Max Party
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 11

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

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

Sunday racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00, and at Busan with 6 races from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Can Raon The Point return to winning ways on Sunday? (Pic: KRA(

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) KHAN NUT has finished between 3rd and 5th in each of her three starts so far at 1200M and most recently at this distance at the end of August. She’s had nine weeks off since then so comes in fresh, she draws well, and she will be favoured to win this. (1) TROLL seems to finally be figuring things out, coming in off a career best finish to date when 3rd over this distance on October 6th. In this company a similar performance will see him very close. (7) DAZZLE RUSH hinted at ability when 5th on debut over 1200M on October 5th. The time wasn’t quick, but he should have come on for the run and can build on it here. (10) LUCKY SUNNY and (5) RUNNING ARTIST others to consider.

Selections(4) Khan Nut (1) Troll (7) Dazzle Rush (10) Lucky Sunny
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 10

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

(10) HANSEN BRACING has improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on September 14th. He was well beaten by a good winner, but the time he recorded was a full second faster than any of the others here have managed and he is the one to beat here. (11) LEGEND TANSAENG returned from nine months off to run 3rd at this distance on September 28th, settling back and running on. He should strip fitter for that run and shapes as the main danger. (6) MG FIRST has a 3rd and a 4th among four starts so far and he can be there or thereabouts again. (7) UMA DACHI is the sole debut-maker and having taken a long string of trials to get to the races, can be ready to perform well first-up. (2) GANDAGO is another to look out for.

Selections(10) Hansen Bracing (11) Legend Tansaeng (6) MG First (7) Uma Dachi
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start4, 8, 9, 10

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

Juvenile maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. The curiously named (3) GOOGLE CAR will be favourite. After winning a trial, he ran well for 3rd place on debut over 1000M on September 13th, settling back and running on. He should be better for the run, the step up in trip can suit, and he can win here. The rest of the experience isn’t great, so we’ll turn to the first-timers. (9) GREAT LUCKY ran 3rd in his trial earlier this month showing on pace. He can be on pace here too and in this a long way. (5) ROAD TO ACE similarly was 3rd in his trial, held together nicely enough. He ran through the line well and the 1200M can suit first up. Returning to those who have races, (12) WONDERFUL LARK and (2) YULIM SESANG perhaps have the best chance to improve.

Selections(3) Google Car (9) Great Lucky (5) Road To Ace (12) Wonderful Lark
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

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

(3) APPLE STYLE has two 4th places from three starts so far, most recently on October 6th when trying this distance for the first time settling back and running on. He comes into a better gate here and he can win. That will mean overturning the form on (9) YES MADAM, who ran 2nd in that October 6th race, her best finish to date when racing on pace. She has the challenge of the widest gate, but in this small field, that shouldn’t prove too problematic, and she has every chance. (2) CHEONJU MARKET was further back in that same race, but he does have a 2nd place to his name over this class as recently as August and he can be in the mix here. (6) SUNSHINE QUEEN and (8) THUNDER LUCKY other place chances.

Selections(3) Apple Style (9) Yes Madam (2) Cheonji Market (6) Sunshine Queen
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

(2) NEW LEADER has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record with the latter being just two starts back at 1200M. She draws well here, Munro returns to the mount, and she can win.  (4) CRAZY LEO has finished between 2nd and 4th in each of his three starts so far, most recently when beating a couple of these on October 6th. The time wasn’t quick, and he was a long way behind the winner, but he could have enough for this lot and will probably start as the betting favourite. (10) BEOLGYOUI HIM has raced just twice, improving in the second of them to run 4th over 1200M. That was back in August so he comes in here fresh and can continue to improve. (3) CANCAN STEP and (5) DALBITWIE others on the frame.

Selections(2) New Leader (4) Crazy Leo (10) Beolgyoui Him (3) Cancan Step
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 11

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

(1) K POWERFUL got his maiden win at start number four on September 28th, making all over 1400M and scoring with plenty to spare. That win had been coming, and while he comes up in class here, his time for the 1400M was much quicker than any of the others here have achieved and from the inside gate, he will be expected to win again. (5) CHEONJI SKY looks the best of a limited set of opponents. It’s been a long while since his solitary win, but he comes in with recent form reading well with back-to-back 3rd places from his latest two, both at this class and distance. He should be in the mix again here. (2) CHROMITE was 7th behind Cheonji Sky last time out but he has a 3rd place over this distance to his name and from a better draw, can be given another chance. (3) THEME TANSAENG and (4) NEMO SPIRIT other place chances.

Selections(1) K Powerful (5) Cheonji Sky (2) Chromite (3) Theme Tansaeng
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 2)

Sunday sees 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the eleven racing for the first time.  After improving over three trials, (1) REMEMBER AGAIN ran a fair 6th of ten on debut over this distance on September 29th, racing handy throughout. It wasn’t a quick time but still quicker than any of the others with experience here and from a good gate and with some natural improvement, he is the one to beat. The rest of the exposed form isn’t great. (3) DONGBANG FORCE is the only one to have raced twice and she did improve to 4th in the second of those, albeit a long way behind the winner. If she continues on that trajectory she can go close here. Of the debut-makers, (7) YEONGGWANGUI SKY will be the most fancied following a fair trial and Moon Se-young up. (9) WILD HAPPY and (11) DIXIE MAN also hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(1) Remember Again (3) Dongbang Force (7) Yeonggwangui Sky (9) Wild Happy
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 9

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

Filly maidens only here and it will be hard to go past (2) RAON THE KEISHA. After an ordinary debut in August, she was a close 2nd at start number two over 1000M on September 28th, settling midfield and running on well. The step up in trip can suit and she won’t need to find much improvement to win here. The danger is in the adjoining gate. (3) BEAT DOKKAEBI was similarly indifferent on debut but has since registered a 3rd and a 4th, most recently when stepped up to this distance on September 28th when ridden on pace. She’ll be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (9) GAMUN PARTY has made similar progress across four outings with her latest a month ago when 3rd over 1300M and she should be there or thereabouts again. (1) GEOLJAK HAPPY and (10) MODERN DANCE others in the frame although the former will need a line through her latest.

Selections(2) Raon The Keisha (3) Beat Dokkaebi (9) Gamun Party (1) Geoljak Happy
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 9

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

(2) AMAZING STAR has already crossed the line in front first but had that win stripped after a post-race sample was beyond a threshold. She then struggled on her return in August but after going back to trial, she was much better on October 5th when 2nd over 1300M in a very similar race to this (although it was just fillies that day). She draws nicely and will be strongly fancied to go one better today. After three trials, (9) GWACHEON QUEEN finally debuted on September 28th over 1000M and after a slow start ran through the line well for 5th. She should have come on for that, and up in trip, she can go closer. (1) ARNOLD QUEEN will need to be forgiven her latest, but if we go on her effort two starts back when beating a couple of these on her way to 3rd place over this distance, she has to be considered. (5) KOTAP and (7) BEAUTIFUL HWASEONG are other potential improvers.

Selections(2) Amazing Star (9) Gwacheon Queen (1) Arnold Queen (5) Kotap
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 6

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

Fillies and mares only here. (5) BEAUTYWONDERFUL remains a maiden after ten attempts but has plenty of near misses, including her latest when 3rd over this distance on October 13th. She will be favourite to go one better here. (1) GLORY AND HONOUR is a consistent type who is rarely far away with multiple money finishes at this class. From the inside gate, she can settle just behind the speed and can be a danger late on here. (8) META got her maiden win at start number two over 1200M on August 17th before running 4th on her first try at this class on September 29th. She will be racing on pace, and she can be in this a long way again. (6) SPECIAL FORCE and (3) DREAM SKY are the other placing chances.

Selections(5) Beautywonderful (1) Glory And Honor (8) Meta (6) Special Force
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 9

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

She is yet to win in eight attempts, but (4) BIG BRIDGE will be a short price favourite to put that right this time. She comes un for two 2nd places and a 3rd from her latest three, all at this class and most recently on her first try at this trip on Octobert 6th when settling handy and running on. She is nicely weighted, she draws well, and it should be her day. (7) EUREKA has only won once but has no fewer than nineteen top five finishes from twenty-nine appearances. Last time out she was only beaten into 2nd very narrowly and with an apprentice claiming 4kg here, she can go close again. (8) SERGEANT LIGHT is winless but is up in class following too many near misses. She comes down in weight by 3kg and can measure up in this company. (2) WHIZ LOVER and (10) SINUI YNMYEONG others to consider.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (October 27)

There’s no Stakes action but there is still plenty to get stuck into on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Captain Yankee goes around at Busan on Sunday. Aged 3 he won two legs of the Triple Crown (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the ten racing for the first time. Experience goes on top though as (1) BEST RACE ran a solid 2nd place over this distance on debut on October 5th, racing on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a decent time. With any kind of natural improvement, he is hard to go past here. Among the debut-makers, there are a couple of standouts. (8) MR.STORM won his trial leading all the way around and if he brings that form to the races, he will be a chance. Meanwhile, (7) JISAN FORCE led for much of the way around in his trial, ultimately crossing the line 2nd in a good time. Moon Se-young’s presence will ensure he has plenty of first-up supporters. (9) QUEEN DIA and (5) SEMYEONG DIA are others with experience who may improve.

Selections(1) Best Race (8) Mr.Storm (7) Jisan Force (9) Queen Dia
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

More juvenile maidens. (1) ONE PUNCH DRAGON showed on pace on debut over this distance on September 28th, ultimately finishing 3rd. It was a run full of potential and from the inside gate again, he should be on pace here with every chance of going all the way this time. (6) GEUMA FOREMOST has raced twice, finishing 5th on debut over 1000M, and then 3rd at 1200M at the end of August. He comes in fresh following eight weeks off, and he can be in this, Like One Punch Dragon, (8) GRAND KWAEMA was 3rd on debut in his case over 1200M on September 29th. He too should have come on for the run and shapes as a danger. Solitary debut maker (7) WONDERFUL FAPPY (may get a spelling alteration) dominated a trial earlier this month and if he brings that form to the races, has to be in the mix. (9) ECLIPSE THE KING has run fairly in his first two appearances and may improve.

Selections(1) One Punch Dragon (6) Geuma Foremost (8) Grand Kwaema (7) Wonderful Fappy
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

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

Maiden fillies only here and anything could win. (9) NICE BUDDY ran 2nd on debut over this distance on September 27th well beaten by a good winner but showing promise. With some natural improvement, she has as much chance as any here. (6) DREAMMA enters off the back of two consecutive 4th place finishes, both at this distance and both times sitting just behind the speed and running on. She has the fastest time among these by a considerable margin (admittedly recorded in a week when the track was racing very fast) and she can be a danger. (3) WORLD ANGEL CAT returned from over three months out to run a much-improved 2nd over 1400M on October 11th, leading for much of the way. She makes a quick return here and draws well to lead again. (10) GOLDMASK and (12) DOLPHIN KICK are others to consider.

Selections(9) Nice Buddy (6) Dreamma (3) World Angel Cat (10) Goldmask
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

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

Two standouts here. Following an inauspicious debut, (10) HANURI was a close 4th at start number two over 1300M on September 14th, settling midfield and running on. He has the challenge of the widest gate but the slight step up in trip can suit and he can win. The danger is (8) ELDORADO HEUNGBU. He has a best of 3rd from three starts so far, having dropped back and run on each time. He should similarly benefit from the extended trip. (5) HIPPODROME is starting to get some consistency and enters off back-to-back 4th places, most recently when stepped up to this distance on June 30th. He has had seventeen weeks off since then and was lame in August, but he has been back in work since the second week of this month, and he can be competitive again here. (3) JEWELRY FASHION and (7) NEOMANEULWIHAESEO others in the frame.

Selections(10) Hanuri (8) Eldorado Heungbu (5) Hippodrome (3) Jewelry Fashion
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

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

(10) COWBOY MAN came out of gate eleven over 1000M on debut on September 29th and finished off very well for a fair 6th of twelve in a race where the margins weren’t big. He should have come on for that run, the step up in trip can be to his benefit, Munro stays on and he can win. (7) RIGHT CHAMP stepped up to this trip at start number two on September 27th and from a handy position, ran on to run 2nd. In this company, he can be forward early, and he can be a threat. (6) BLACK SPEED has shown progress over three starts with his latest 4th place at 1200M being his best. You Hyun-myung climbs on here and he should be aiming to get even closer. (9) HI LEGEND and (2) TEAM SURPRISE others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(10) Cowboy Man (7) Right Champ (6) Black Speed (9) Hi Legend
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) FLASH GOLD did nothing on debut but was a much-improved 2nd at start number two over 1400M on September 28th when handy throughout. Third-up he can be peaking fitness wise, and he shapes as the one to beat here. (9) USEUNG JINLI is the danger. He went through plenty of trials before debuting, which he finally did over 1200M on September 28th, settling back and running through the line well. He should have derived benefit from that run, and the step up in trip can suit. (7) POSEIDON BLUE enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at 1300M and both times finishing off well. He should be there or thereabouts again. (2) COMMAND BLUE hinted at improvement last time out and can build on her 5th place, while (4) SUPER BLUEMOON is another seemingly on the right trajectory.  

Selections(6) Flash Gold (9) Useung Jinli (7) Poseidon Blue (2) Command Blue
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11-races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (5) GEUNYANG GARA went through two trials, showing great improvement in the second of them on October 4th (it wasn’t a compulsory trial so it may not appear in all race cards). She led, and was a close 2nd, stopping the clock in 62.3 seconds and if she brings that form to the races, she has an excellent chance first-up. (1) SUHYANG MIIN led for much of the way around her trial, ultimately being passed by only the class 1 Listed winner Vics Go. Moon Se-young is aboard and from the inside gate, she will have plenty of backers. Of the experienced ones, only (9) GWANAKSAN WONDERFUL has shown much, running 3rd on debut over this distance on September 14th. She was nineteen-lengths behind the winner but won’t need to improve much to be close here. (8) SAMJEONG LADY and (12) DAEHANG BIMA others to consider.

Selections(5) Geunyang Gara (1) Suhyang Miin (9) Gwanaksan Wonderful (8) Samjeong Lady
Next Best12, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported maidens with all but three racing for the first time. We’ll side with a newcomer and (7) SATANG SONYEO. She raced handy in her trial crossing the line 2nd in a quick time and beaten only by the experienced Magic Junior. If she brings that form to the races, she has every chance. (9) HAEK DIA is one of the three who has raced before and after a slow start, she ran on well for 3rd place over this distance on September 28th, albeit well back behind a good winner. She should have come on for that run and will be a danger. Returning to the first timers, both (6) WHIZ CAMPAIGN and (11) TAP TIER won their trials and can be considered first up. (3) BLUE PIORA ran 2nd in her trial, posting a quick time and has the in-form Ruan Maia aboard.

Selections(7) Satang Sonyeo (9) Haek Dia (6) Whiz Campaign (11) Tap Tier
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4 ,6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) SMART MUSIC has run 5th in both his starts so far, both over this distance. At his latest on September 28th, he settled midfield and ran on in a quick time and from a good draw here, he can be ridden a little further forward and won’t need to improve much to win this. (8) YONGAM KATHAKA did nothing on debut but was a much-improved 2nd at start number two a month ago when leading for much of the way around. He will be expected to lead again here, and he can be in this a long way. That pair will fill out most quinellas, but first-time starter (11) SMART A ONE ran 2nd in a fair time in her trial and in this company can challenge for a place first-up. (1) POWER MONSTER and (5) BLUE DRAGON can potentially improve from middling efforts on debut. 

Selections(3) Smart Music (8) Yongam Kanthaka (11) Smart A One (1) Power Monster
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) CHRYSOL CROWN stepped up to this distance at start number two on September 1st and ran a significantly improved 2nd place, coming from well off the pace. He e was well beaten by a good winner but the experience should stand him in good stead and third-up he can be peaking. (1) BLACK SIDAE tackled two-turns for the first time on September 28th and he beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over this distance, racing on pace throughout. He draws nicely to lead again, and he has every chance. Completing the top line of favourites is (5) SPLENDID. He steps up to this distance for the first time having run 4th in his latest two at 1200M and 1300M, finishing off his races well, and he can be in the mix. (2) OPUS PURPLE and (8) NONSTOP YEOLCHA the other main placing chances.

Selections(7) Chrysol Crown (1) Black Sidae (5) Splendid (2) Opus Purple
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

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

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Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (October 20)

Plenty going on Sunday around Korean racing with the G3 Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup, featuring another clash between Jeulgeounyeojeong and Wonderful Slew the highlight. Both Busan and Seoul also host legs of the Juvenile Series. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong and Alan Munro will be back in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Small field of juvenile maidens with (3) GLOBAL TIME as the warm favourite. He comes in having run 3rd and 2nd in his two starts so far, most recently over 1200M on September 15th when he led until the closing stages. Third up he can be peaking and from a good draw he can lead again, and this time go one better. (4) MUNHAK BOY debuted in that September 15th race and ran a very solid 3rd, coming from off the pace. He was five-lengths behind Global Time so he has plenty to make up, the slight step up in trip can suit and he should have some natural improvement. (1) GWANAKSAN GLOBAL did nothing on debut make in July but has since been back to trial where he looked a better prospect, and he can improve today. Debut-maker (8) RAON THE AFFIRMED trialed up with Munhak Boy, finishing 3rd to his 2nd and she can go well first up while the other first-timer (2) BEOLGYO BAKGANGGUL also hinted at ability in a trial. 

Selections(3) Global Time (4) Munhak Boy (1) Gwanaksan Global (8) Raon The Affirmed
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

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

Standard maiden here with (2) WONDERFUL NORTHERN the standout. He didn’t do much on debut but in two subsequent starts, has landed a close 2nd followed by a 3rd, both at 1200M. Both times he did his best work late on and stepping up to 1400M may be just what he needs to make the breakthrough. (7) CHRYSOL MAJOR came from well off the pace to land a best to date 2nd place over 1300M on September 29th, well behind a good winner, but showing promise and he won’t need to improve much to go close here. (5) ORANGE TIME too improved to 2nd place at his latest start on September 15th and is another for who the additional distance may benefit. (8) CRAZE CHANG and (3) GANGCHEOL DRAGON among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Wonderful Northern (7) Chrysol Major (5) Orange Time (8) Craze Chang
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. Moon Se-young is in town to ride Wonderful Slew in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup later and he picks up a potential winner here on the shape of (7) FLYING CHAMPION. After an inauspicious debut, he has finished 2nd and 4th in two subsequent outings at 1200M and 1400M and he won’t need to improve much, if at all, to beat this lot. (9) EUNBIT DAERO is the only other experienced one with any form to speak of, having run 4th on debut in a decent time over 1000M. With some natural improvement she can get close here. (10) DOCTOR CURLIN did nothing at start number two but if we go on his 5th of eleven form a wide draw on debut, he can shape as a place chance. Other than that it is the debut-makers and (1) DAEGIL HERO and (3) WONDERFUL FORTUNE were the best in trials.

Selections(7) Flying Champion (9) Eunbit Daero (10) Doctor Curlin (1) Daegil Hero
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(4) SCALE KING is yet to win in eight attempts but got promoted to this level with a few too many near-misses and then showed he can compete with a 3rd place over 1200M on September 14th when handy throughout. He has raced well at this trip already and today can be his day. Probably betting favourite is (6) STING JET. After running 4th on debut, he was a winner at start number two over 1200M on September 15th when tracking the leader and pulling away late. He is up in class and slightly in trip but is down in the weights and can measure up. (3) AUSTIN LEADER mixes his form, but this is the kind of company among which he can compete for at least a place. (11) BELOTERO and (7) EAST RISING among others in the frame.

Selections(4) Scale King (6) Sting Jet (3) Austin Leader (11) Belotero
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) NINETY PLUS got his maiden in at start number two on August 11th before running 2nd in the valuable Gangseo-gu Mayor’s Trophy for juveniles on September 8th, settling midfield and running on. He has by far the quickest final furlong among these, and the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem (2) HAPPY CHARMING was a front-running winner on debut over 1200M on September 8th. She comes up in class and in distance here and from a good draw, she can get on pace, and she can win again. (7) ROAD TO FIGHTER is up in class following a maiden win over 1200M at start number three on September 13th. He doesn’t get much of a weight break, but he can measure up here. (8) WE LIKE MONEY and (6) DOCTOR FIGHTER among plenty of other place chances in a competitive race.

Selections(11) Ninety Plus (2) Happy Charming (7) Road To Fighter (8) We Like Money
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

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