Seoul

Triple Crown Finale Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (June 16)

There won’t be a Triple Crown winner this year with the KRA Cup Mile and Korean Derby having been won by Success Baekpa and Eunpa Sarang respectively, however, there is plenty to look forward to on Sunday as a full field of sixteen contest the final leg, the Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G2) at Seoul Racecourse. The big race is race 8 on an 11-race program at Seoul that runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Eunpa Sarang saluted in the Derby. He returns for Sunday’s Minister’s Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (5) RUN WILD, who raced twice across the turn of the year with a very close 2nd on debut at this distance followed by a midfield finish over 1300M. He trialled up fairly at the end of May settling back from a wide draw before running on and back at 1200M first up, can win. The best of the debut makers is (3) COING. It took him two trials – in consecutive weeks – to qualify, but he was much better in the second of them, winning it ahead of none other than Run Wild, leading all the way. He draws nicely and can put in a bold showing from the front here. (7) WITH DIS KURO ran 3rd on debut at this distance in April. It wasn’t a quick race but nine weeks on, he can have derived benefit from the experience and should be in this (2) SAEROUN GUY is next best but after that it is a struggle to make a case for another. Perhaps (6) COMMAND BLUE who trialled fairly could sneak a minor money finish.

Selections(5) Run Wild (3) Coing (7) With Dis Kuro (2) Saeroun Guy
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

(11) MR. POWER enters off a much-improved 3rd place over this distance back in March when slow out and coming from well off the pace. He has had fifteen weeks off since then, so he comes in fresh, the wide draw won’t matter, and with Moon Se-young climbing up for the first time, today can be the day. (5) KHAS was a useful 4th on debut back in April. He has since been back to trial, coming through it in fine style, and he can be a danger here. (6) HANGANG CAPTAIN has shown progress across his three outings to date, most recently a 5th place on May 25th over this distance. That was his first appearance since January, and he can strip fitter here. (2) SMART NOTION and (9) YEONGWON GIANT are others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Mr. Power (5) Khas (6) Hangang Captain (2) Smart Notion
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 9

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. (2) BINNANEUNGIL has raced four times, all of them last year and registered a 2nd place and three 4th place finishes despite racing very erratically on a couple of occasions. He has since been gelded and returns here having trialled up well in April. With better manners, he will take some beating. (8) SKY ARCH will be the second favourite. While only ordinary in her latest, she has a 2nd and a 3rd to her name as recently as April and she can settle back and be a danger late on here. Best of the first timers is (3) OASIS GREEN. She went through two trials, improving significantly in the second (which as a voluntary trial, may not appear in all racecards) when on pace and crossing the line 3rd in a fair time. From a good gate she can be on pace and in this a long way first-up. (6) WHITE OIL similarly trialled well enough and can be considered. (4) BORA CHAMP another of the experienced ones who can go well.

Selections(2) Binnaneungil (8) Sky Arch (3) Oasis Green (6) White Oil
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (7) GREEN VIVACE enters off a 3rd place in a similar class and distance filly only race on May 18th when she drew gate ten and worked hard to get on pace. She comes up slightly in the weights but into a better gate and in this company should get a much easier run to the front and can win. That will mean overturning the form on (9) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL, who won that May 18th race coming from off the pace. She comes up a full 4kg in the weights, but she warrants respect here. (6) BIG BRIDGE is yet to win but comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes at 1200M and under a light weight she can measure up in this company. (5) TESTA RUBY and (3) BEAUTYWONDERFUL, also both up in class, are others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Green Vivace (9) Gangcheol Yeogeol (6) Big Bridge (5) Testa Ruby
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

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

Small but competitive field. (6) CHEONHA SARANG is yet to win in five but comes in having run a close 3rd over 1300M in his first try at this class on April 19th. He comes up 3kg in the weights in the absence of an apprentice claim, but Choi Si-dae climbs up and the colt has run well at this distance before. (1) OVER ENERGY is the main danger. The same apprentice who rode Cheonha Sarang last time gets on, keeping his weight similar to when he ran 2nd in a quick race at 1300M at this class on May 12th. He’ll be on pace and in this a long way. (3) DOCTOR WICKY is the other winning chance. He defied long odds to run 2nd at 1300M on May 26th having briefly led in the straight and warrants more respect today. (2) NAMDO ILDEUNG and (7) ZET CASH are the other placing chances.

Selections(6) Cheonha Sarang (1) Over Energy (3) Doctor Wicky (2) Namdo Ildeung
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

It’s about time (5) RAON THE MAN returned to winning ways. Having won two of his first four to get promoted to this level, he is zero for five at class 4. He hasn’t run badly though with two 2nd places and two 3rd places and with CC climbing on, today can be his day. (1) CHAMJOEUN JILJU is the main danger. She comes in having beaten three of these on her way to 2nd place behind Baden Baden at this class and distance on May 18th when slightly slow away from a wide gate and then racing on pace. She carries the same light weight today but draws much better, and she should be in the finish. After two ordinary efforts at this level, (2) PURGE KING ran an improved 2nd when only narrowly defeated at class and distance on May 11th. He comes into a better gate today and Harry Kasim, who rode him for the first time that, day stays on. (9) YONGAM MARENGO and (8) DAEBAK STAR others in the frame.

Selections(5) Raon The Man (1) Chamjoeun Jilju (2) Purge King (9) Yongam Marengo
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 8

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 15)

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

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

Twelve previously unraced juveniles so it’s time to fire up the trial videos. They will point us in the direction of (12) GEOLJAK SIDAE, who went through two trials, qualifying in the first of them in April when a close 2nd having led for most of the way, and then going through a voluntary one on May 23rd when he led all the way, stopping the clock in a quick time. He did that from the same wide draw he gets today if he can bring that form, he will take some beating. (1) HANGANG PERFECT was 2nd in his trial, coming from off the pace and finishing off well in a decent time and shapes as the main danger. (10) CHEONGUNG STROM came through the same trial as Hangang Perfect, finishing 4th and looking ready to race. (9) CHEONGSAN JILJU and (6) HANMADIMALDO others who could have a say first up.

Selections(12) Geoljak SIdae (1) Hangang Perfect (10) Cheongung Storm (9) Cheongsan Jilju
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 12

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

(11) ASSI JANGGUN has been knocking at the door for a while now and enters with a 3rd and a 4th place from her latest two, both at 1300M. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but the slight step up in trip may be what she needs. (1) EAST QUALITY has shown progress over three starts to date, with his latest being her best. That was a 4th place over 1300M on May 5th when settling back and running on, but in this company and from the inside gate, he can be expected to be further forward, and he will probably start as the betting favourite. (5) B.K. BELLE is another who should be challenging for the early lead. She has mixed her form across eight outings but has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record and should be in the mix here. (10) LEGEND TAP and (2) MARUBYEOL look the other place chances.

Selections(11) Assi Janggun (1) East Quality (5) B.K. Belle (10) Legend Tap
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 9, 11

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

Fillies only in this maiden and a couple enter ready to win. Chief among them is (4) TOHOMARKET, who comes in off a best to date finish of 2nd over this distance on May 19th when settling midfield and finishing off well. That gave her the joint fastest time of any of these for the distance, and from a better draw today, she can go one better. That time is shared by (2) CALIPH who similarly comes in off her best performance when 2nd over this distance on May 12th. That was a big uptick in form and from a good gate, she can keep her momentum going here. (11) CLOUD HEART and (8) GREEN CONCORD both come in off back-to-back 4th places from their respective latest two, and both should be aiming for career best finishes here. (10) SAHARAMONG another in the minor money frame.

Selections(4) Tohomarket (2) Caliph (11) Cloud Heart (8) Green Concord
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 11

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

(4) NAOL INDY got his maiden win at start number four over this distance on May 26th when leading from gate to wire. That win had been coming and while he comes up in class here, he is down in the weights and from a good draw can get to the front and lead all the way again. (6) SONE SONJABGO got her maiden win at start two at the end of March and immediately followed up with a 10/1 score on her first try at this level at 1200M on May 12th. She only comes up 1.5kg in the weights and only 100M in trip and a hat-trick isn’t impossible. (2) TRAUM KING could only manage 6th on his return from seven months out on May 11th. He should strip fitter for that run, and he has placed at this class and distance. (7) GEUMAK DIA and (8) EUREKA among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(4) Naol Indy (6) Sone Sonjabgo (2) Traum King (7) Geumak Dia
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

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Triple Tiara Finale Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (June 9)

The Triple Tiara Series for three-year-old fillies concludes on Sunday at Seoul Racecourse with Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) and Eclipse Berry will be the favourite to complete a clean-sweep of the series having already won the Luna Stakes and Korean Oaks. The big race is race 8 on a 10-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 7 races at Busan from 11:25 to 17:00. Here are the previews:

Eclipse Berry (KRA)

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

It’s hard to go past (9) CUPID MIR in this maiden. He has no fewer than six top-four finishes from seven attempts, including his latest over 1200M on May 18th when slow away and settling right back before running on. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and in this company, he should be on pace and will take some beating. (3) HEUNGHAENG BULPAE has finished in either 4th or 5th place in all seven of his starts so far. He has a strong finish on him and can be aiming for better here. Solitary debut-maker (4) WONDERFUL TECHNO trialled up well and from a good draw shouldn’t be ruled out first up. (2) DAEMUL SOCKS and (1) SCALE KING the other major place chances.

Selections(9) Cupid Mir (3) Heunghaeng Bulpae (4) Wonderful Techno (2) Daemul Socks
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 11

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

(1) SUNSHINE QUEEN comes in off a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at 1300M and both times finishing off well. She comes up to 1400M for the first time and from a good draw, Jo Jae-ro can pick his spot behind the speed and she has solid claims here. (8) MK LEE has shown good progress across four starts so far and was a close 4th over 1300M last time out. He too comes up to the 1400M for the first time and in this company can be on or close to the pace and can be in this a long way. (3) RAON THE KLAMMER was 5th behind MK Lee at his last start. He draws better this time and can be a danger, (11) TRES VITE and (6) SMILE GOLD others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Sunshine Queen (8) MK Lee (3) Raon The Klammer (11) Tres Vite
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 10

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

One of two debut-makers in the race, (5) QUEEN SOPHIA looked very well when winning a trial as easily as she pleased in a quick time on May 18th, sitting behind the leader before pulling clear. She draws nicely and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (8) SEOGWI STAR is yet to finish outside of the top-five and comes in off her best finish so far when 2nd at this distance on May 17th. She carries a light weight here and can be a danger. (1) YEONGGWANGUI ROSE likes to race on pace and today draws very nicely for a much easier run to the front. Franco climbs on and she should be in this a long way. (10) GREEN BULLDOZER and (3) PURE DANCE others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Queen Sophia (8) Seogwi Star (1) Yeonggwangui Rose (10) Green Bulldozer
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

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

Competitive race. (10) AMAZING STAR has two 4th places and a 3rd from three starts so far racing handy on each occasion. She draws a touch wide here but should be able to find a relatively forward position and today can be her day. (8) BLACK SPECTER ran 3rd on debut in March before following up with a close 5th on May 4th, both times over 1200M and both times coming from off the pace. The slight step up in trip can suit and he can be a threat here. (7) SEONGSIL CHEONHA has trialled twice since his latest run and looked much more assured in the latter of those on May 23rd (may not appear in all racecards) when a close 2nd in a quick time. He can be in the mix first-up here for his first race in sixteen weeks. (5) ALL NUT and (1) MAX PARTY among plenty of others who can be in the mix.

Selections(10) Amazing Star (8) Black Specter (7) Seongsil Cheonha (5) All Nut
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

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

Open race with plenty of chances. (4) WONDERFUL FEVER is yet to win but got promoted to this level having placed in each of his first three starts. He then ran a solid 5th over this distance on his first try at this level on May 10th when he had to overcome gate ten. He draws much better today and under a light weight, he can win. (6) STRIKE ZONE has never finished any worse than 5th in seven attempts with his win coming at 1300M. He races for the first time since running 3rd in a quick race at this class over 1400M in January, but he looked well in a May trial and can go well first-up. (7) MAJESTIC DANCER enters off a 4th place at class and distance on May 10th coming from off the pace and he can be a danger late on again here. (8) MOST RAPID and (9) GOLDEN AIR others in the frame.

Selections(4) Wonderful Fever (6) Strike Zone (7) Majestic Dancer (8) Most Rapid
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 8)

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 30 Million

Maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though, and (5) YEONGUNG JARYONG, who ran a close 5th on debut at this distance on May 18th, racing handy throughout and stopping the clock in a quick time. He had previously shown plenty of speed in his trials and with some natural improvement from that first start, should take some beating. (3) X-FACTOR ran 2nd at big odds on debut on April 13th. The time wasn’t quick but that showing is enough to make him the second pick here. (4) ULTRA MANGCHI improved to 3rd at start number two over this distance on April 27th leading for much of the way around and should be on pace again here. The debut-makers are probably better watched first-up so (9) P N S OHOH and (1) SERGEANT LIGHT are the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Yeongung Jaryoung (3) X-Factor (4) Ultra Mangchi (9) P N S Ohoh
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden. (9) GALSAEK DOJEONJA has been getting closer across seven starts so far and has a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two, both at 1300M. He has been finishing off his races well and the step up to 1700M, as well as CC climbing aboard, could be what he needs. The main danger is (8) COSMO KING. He has a 2nd, a 4th and a 3rd in his last three starts, all of them at this distance and with some of today’s rivals behind him on all three occasions. He can settle midfield and run on and should be in the mix again here. (2) TWO TWO THUNDER ran 4th to Cosmo King’s 2nd when they raced at this distance on March 16th. He comes in fresh following twelve weeks out and is a place hope here. (5) GOLD MUNGCHI and (4) GANGCHEOL POWER others in the minor money frame.

Selections(9) Galsaek Dojeonja (8) Cosmo King (2) Two Two Thunder (5) Gold Mungchi
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 10

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (5) VIVA CHEONGSU remains a maiden having been promoted to this class with back-to-back runner-up finishes in her first two starts but has shown she can measure up at this level with a 4th and a 3rd from two tries at it, most recently over 1300M on May 4th. She remains very lightly weighted here and today can be her day. (3) QUERER got her maiden win in the weakest race imaginable back in January but has, perhaps surprisingly, worked herself into competitiveness at this level, culminating in a close 2nd at class and distance on May 12th, beating a couple of today’s rivals. She draws nicely to be on pace and should be close here. (1) STUNNING LADY enters off a smart 2nd place at 1300M on April 27th and can be competitive here. (7) DREAM SKY and (9) HAPPY ICTUS among other placing chances.

Selections(5) Viva Cheongsu (3) Querer (1) Stunning Lady (7) Dream Sky
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 7

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

(7) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG came back into form with a very close 2nd place at this class and distance on May 11th when close to the pace throughout. He comes up a full 3kg in the weights here, but he has every chance of going one better. (3) NAVY CHROME is the danger. A winner at class 6 level two starts back, she ran 2nd on her first try at this class and distance on April 20th, coming from off the pace. In this company and from a good gate, she can be expected to lead, and she has every chance. (2) SPACE RUBY comes up in class having got her maiden win at start number two over this distance back in February. She hasn’t been seen since but has scope for more development and can measure up in this company. (8) BEST THOR and (6) HEART SIGNAL are others to consider for the minors.

Selections(7) Seongsil Yeongung (3) Navy Chrome (2) Space Ruby (8) Best Thor
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

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KNN Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (June 2)

Jeulgeounyeojeong will aim to complete a clean sweep of the Queens’ Tour Spring & Summer as that series concludes on Sunday afternoon with the KNN Cup (1600M KOR-G3). In a change to May’s schedule, there are 8 Sunday races at Busan from 10:35 to 17:00 and 9 at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong beat Wonderful Slew in the Donga Ilbo (Pic: KRA)

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

It’s hard to go past (10) SEUNGNI GITBAL. She beat three of these on her way to 2nd place over this distance on May 3rd and while she has the challenge of the widest gate here, she doesn’t necessarily need to lead, and she may not even need to improve to win this. That’s because there isn’t much to fear from this opposition. (1) YONGBI CHEONWANG overcame gate eleven to run a fair 4th over 1200M on May 5th. Given today’s draw he may well revert to leading – as he had done in previous starts – and he can be in this a long way. (2) ILCHUL GOLD was 3rd behind Seungni Gitbal in that May 3rd race and while she has plenty to make up, she gets a weight swing in her favour as well as a better draw. (3) JOJOBA and (6) HAPPY NORTHERN are the other place chances.

Selections(10) Seungni Gitbal (1) Yongbi Cheongwang (2) Ilchul Gold (3) Jojoba
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 10

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

(2) CHOEGANG TIME has had a stop-start beginning to his career but ran a solid 2nd at this distance back in January. He hasn’t race since he won a trial in a double-quick time in mid-May and from a great draw and with an apprentice taking 3kg off his back, he can win first up today. (5) SHINE BOLT has been getting closer across her four starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place at this distance on April 14th when slow out and coming from a long way back. She shapes as the main danger here. (9) PRINCE DAY enters off a 2nd place at this distance on April 21st, albeit well beaten by a good winner. In this small field, the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he is another who has a smart finish on him. (8) TWO ACE and (6) STUNNING SERVE are others in the placing frame. 

Selections(2) Choegang Time (5) Shine Bolt (9) Prince Day (8) Two Ace
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

Two first timers among these maidens and one of them, (5) OPEN SKY, will be the warm favourite. The Cowboy Cal gelding showed on pace in his trial, pulling away to win in a quick time, and if he brings that form to the races, he will take some beating. (3) BEOLMAUI ACE raced once for a fair 5th last November and hasn’t been seen since. He trialled well two weeks ago and Moon Se-young, intown to ride Wonderful Slew in the KNN Cup later, taking the mount catches the eye. (9) GOTOTHEVALHALLA ran a fair 4th on debut in March, albeit in a slow time over 1400M. He comes in following twelve weeks out but in this company should be a threat. (4) FLASH DAY has a 4th and a 5th from his latest two, both at this distance and that’s enough to put him in the frame here. The unfortunately named (11) FAT BOY, another who can improve having trialled twice since an anonymous debut.

Selections(5) Open Sky (3) Beolmaui Ace (9) Gotothevalhalla (4) Flash Day
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

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

It’s hard to go past (4) ECLIPSE HONOR. From two starts so far, he has a 2nd and a 3rd, both at this distance and in fair, if unspectacular, times. He has settled behind the speed and run on in both and in this company, he should have too much. (3) LADY FOX enters off a solid 2nd place in an all-filly race over 1300M on April 21st when she overcame gate eleven. She looks nicely in here and can be a danger. (7) CUPID RISE has the second fastest time among these for the distance, after only Eclipse Honor. That was recorded when 4th last time out on April 21st when he led for much of the way. David stays aboard and he should be in the finish again. (2) CRAZE CHANG and (10) NATURAL SOUND others to look out for.

Selections(4) Eclipse Honor (3) Lady Fox (7) Cupid Rise (2) Craze Chang
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here and (1) BLACK JILJU will be the one to beat. She is still a maiden after six attempts, but she has never finished outside the top five and she comes in having run 2nd on her first try at this class over 1300M on May 5th, racing on pace. She draws well to lead again and this time she can go all the way. (3) MARIA’S CALL got her maiden win in a similar all-filly race over 1300M on May 10th when leading from gate to wire. She comes up in class here but with only three races under her belt, has plenty of scope for more improvement and she can be the danger. (6) SUPREME QUEEN is, like Black Jilju, a maiden but she comes up in class following a few too many near-misses. She is another who likes to race on the speed and under a light weight, she can measure up. (9) TAP DREAM and (2) MORO the other placing chances.

Selections(1) Black Jilju (3) Maria’s Call (6) Supreme Queen (9) Tap Dream
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 4 ,6

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (4) UASEN was a dominant winner on debut over 1200M on May 5th, taking things up in the home straight and skipping away to win by plenty. She comes up in class and also slightly in distance, but neither should be an issue and she will be a warm favourite to make it two from two. (5) PINK WIND also comes up in class following a maiden win, in her case at start number six over this distance on April 21st. Her time was faster than any of the others here who have tackled the 1300M have achieved and down in weight, she can measure up. (1) LOVE COWGIRL ran out of steam on her first appearance in over six months in April. She has placed twice at this level though and should have derived benefit from that run to the extent she can be in the mix here. (6) DIANA and (8) GIANT FORCE among others to consider.

Selections(4) Uasen (5) Pink Wind (1) Love Cowgirl (6) Diana
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 9

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

Competitive race. (11) GONJOHARI debuted somewhat anonymously last summer and then didn’t reappear until this April 26th. And some reappearance it was as he slipped away from the field to win by a cool twelve-lengths over 1200M. He comes up in class but the manner of that first-up win suggests there can be more to come, and he is favoured here. (9) BREEDO WIZARD is yet to win in seven outings but has also never finished any worse than 4th. He enters off a close 2nd place over 1200M at this class on May 10th and he should be close again. (5) META PRINCESS is a winner of two from four including at this class and distance. She comes back in trip following a fair 5th over 1400M and after twelve weeks off, can be in the mix here. (4) ONEULISUNGAN and (2) ROAD TO WARRIOR are others to consider.

Selections(11) Gonjohari (9) Breedo Wizard (5) Meta Princess (4) Oneulisungan
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 9, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 1)

June begins with an 11-race Saturday card at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Fillies only in the opening maiden. (2) I’M THE BEST did nothing on debut but was promptly sent back to trial and emerged much better at start number two on May 4th, coming from off the pace to run 3rd over this distance in a good time. She draws well and she looks the best of these. (11) WONDERFUL PASS also has a 2nd place in her record, secured two starts back over 1300M. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but has proven capable of coming from off the pace and can be considered. (8) YEONGWON POTEN weakened over 1300M last time out but going on her previous start, when 3rd at this distance, she warrants consideration in this company. (4) MO CHUISLE and (6) MAGIC SOUND others in the frame for the minors. 

Selections(2) I’m The Best (11) Wonderful Pass (8) Yeongwon Poten (4) Mo Chuisle
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 11

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

This is wide open so at what should be each-way odds, we can take a chance on (1) OSONGEUI BYEOL. He showed a big uptick in form last time out when 2nd over this distance on April 13th when settling just behind the speed and running on and from a great draw and with CC climbing up, he can go one better today. (7) AMAZING ROCK has shown steady progress across three outings to date, culminating in a 3rd place over this distance eon May 18th when coming from off the pace. She is nicely weighted here and with some similar improvement, she can get even closer this time. (6) B.K. BELLE has four top-four finishes from seven attempts with her best being a 2nd at 1200M and she can be in the mix here. (4) DANGCHAN NANGNO and (2) CHEONJANGSA among plenty of other chances.

Selections(1) Osongeui Byeol (7) Amazing Rock (6) B.K. Belle (4) Dangchan Nangbo
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 8

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

Small but competitive field. (4) GOLD SIDAE won on debut over 1200M on April 14th, racing on pace throughout. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but he is down in the weights, he draws well, and he can make it two from two. (5) YONGAM SESANG got his maiden win at start number three over 1300M on May 4th at this distance. He too comes up in class here and while he doesn’t get a weight drop, that was his first appearance since January so he could well strip fitter and is a big danger. (8) SPALTA got his first win two starts back before running an on-pace 2nd on his first try at this class on May 4th. He comes up in the weights but in this company should be close again and will be expected to be on the speed. (7) DANCING GANGJA and (6) THUNDER A ONE are other chances.

Selections(4) Gold Sidae (5) Yongam Sesang (8) Spalta (7) Dancing Gangja
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 8

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

None of these enter off convincing last starts but the one it’s easiest to draw a line through is that of (3) YONGBI POWER who had a poor day at the office over 1700M. She drops back to a distance at which she has finished 3rd and 4th in two attempts at and from a good gate and under a light weight, she has as much chance as any. (8) ECHO ZONE is the only one who emerged from his last start with much credit, having beaten a couple of these on his way to 4th place over this distance on May 5th. He won’t need to improve much to get closer here. (6) GLOBAL JINGYEOK has been cold of late, but he has placed at class and distance and Kim Yong-geun climbing on makes for some appeal. (4) EUREKA and (1) HERO QUEEN are others in the mix.

Selections(3) Yongbi Power (8) Echo Zone (6) Global Jingyeok (4) Eureka
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8

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

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Busan Mayor’s Cup Sunday- Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (May 26)

The Stayer Series heads to Busan on Sunday when Global Hit will seek to complete a clean sweep by winning the Busan Mayor’s Cup (1800M KOR-G2). Unusually the big race is race 3 on the card with a post time of 1.35pm, in order to accommodate live TV coverage (SBS N Sports). There are 6 races in Busan on Sunday from 11:25 to 17:00 as well as 10 in Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Global Hit won the Herald Business Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

Competitive opener. (6) GEUMAK MYEONGJANG enters off his best finish to date at start number five on April 28th when racing handy over this distance and finishing 2nd, well beaten by a good winner, but ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He can sit behind the speed here and can go one better. (5) NAOL INDY raced once without distinction last summer and then didn’t reappear until this April. Now gelded, he has a 4th and a 2nd in two stars back, most recently leading almost the entire way around over this distance on May 5th. Third-up he can be peaking and can win. (1) SAMAEBEONJJEOK enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes and comes up to this distance for the first time having drawn well. (3) EURACHACHA and (9) CHROMITE others in the frame.

Selections(6) Geumak Myeongjang (5) Naol Indy (1) Samaebeonjjeok (3) Eurachacha
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

Fillies only in this maiden, and (7) CROQUIS will be the favourite. She enters off a 3rd and a 4th in her latest two appearances, both over 1300M and both times having sat handy and run on. The slight step up in trip can suit and, in this company, she should be on pace and is the one to beat. (2) P N S GAJA enters off an improved 4th place at start number three on April 21st when ridden on pace for the first time. She draws well for similar tactics to be employed today and she can be competitive. (11) ARNOLD QUEEN does have experience at this distance. She ran 5th behind Croquis at 1300M on March 30th on what was her first start since January and while she has had another eight weeks off, she can get closer here. (8) NEXTLEVEL and (9) CLAIR GOLD are others who can compete for the minors.

Selections(7) Croquis (2) P N S Gaja (11) Arnold Queen (8) Nextlevel
Next Best9, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

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

Maiden fillies in the south coast opener. It’s fair to say that she has mixed her form across her five starts so far but (11) BLISS MARINE has a 3rd and a 2nd to her name at 1400M and 1600M. She likes to race on pace and while she has drawn wide, her pattern so far suggests she can run well today, and she won’t need to improve much on those precious showings to win here. (5) NEOM CITY enters off an improved 4th place over this distance at start number five on April 28th. In doing so, she recorded the fastest time among any of these for the distance and a similar effort will see her in the finish again. (1) JUMBO ROCKET also enters off her best finish to date, which came over 1400M on April 5th. She was ridden much further forward than in previous starts and she is nicely drawn for a repat here. (9) RUN TO QUEEN and (6) WE LIKE MONEY others in the hunt

Selections(11) Bliss Marine (5) Neom City (1) Jumbo Rocket (9) Run To Queen
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 11

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

(4) CAMP DAVID comes in off a much-improved 2nd at start number three on April 20th when handy throughout. He comes up to 1700M for the first time and from a good draw should be on pace, and he can win here. (8) P N S OHOH ran 3rd on debut over 1200M on May 11th, settling just behind the speed and running through the line pleasingly enough. He should have derived benefit from that run and with some natural improvement can challenge a bit closer today. (9) MAGIC PRINCE has a 5th and a 4th from two starts so far, most recently at 1400M. His running style suggests that two turns can suit, and he should be challenging late. (2) MARUBYEOL and (3) MEOTJIN CHOEGANG are others in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Camp David (8) P N S Ohoh (9) Magic Prince (2) Marubyeol
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

Competitive maiden. (1) THUNDER GUY ran 4th on debut in March and followed up with a 2nd place over 1300M on April 21st when on pace throughout and only going down very narrowly to the longest shot on the board. He draws very well here, Seo Seung-un climbs aboard, and he can go one better today. (9) AWESOME SUNRISE enters off a career-best 2nd place at start number nine on April 26th when coming from off the pace over this distance. In doing so, she recorded the fastest time among those here who have tackled the 1400M and she shapes as the main danger. There is one debut maker. (5) OASIS BLUE took two trials to qualify but he certainly caught the eye on the second of them, running 2nd in a quick time. The trainer/jockey combination will not go unnoticed either and he will have backers first-up. (11) WORLD MAID CAT and (4) GLOBAL SPURT are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(1) Thunder Guy (9) Awesome Sunrise (5) Oasis Blue (11) World Maid Cat
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

(1) NARAOLA will be the warm favourite here. He got his win over 1400M three starts back and come sin having run 3rd on his first try at this distance on April 28th when overcoming gate eleven to find a handy position. He enters under a similar weight but draws a much better gate and will take some beating. (5) HEUIMANGUI CHANGA has plenty of experience of this class and distance with a 2nd place on his record over it. He likes to settle back and run on, and he can be a danger. (8) THORUI MANGCHI has placed at this class over 1400M, and he comes up to two turns for the first time. He has shown he can be versatile in his running style and the distance may well suit. (7) FEDERAL KING and (2) ANYANG CHEONDUNG ae the other logical money chances.

Selections(1) Naraola (5) Heuimangui Changa (8) Thorui Mangchi (7) Federal King
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 8

Busan Race 3: Class Open (1800M) Weight for Age / Busan Mayor’s Cup (KOR G2) / KRW 700 Million

The final leg of the Stayer Series sees (11) GLOBAL HIT looking to complete a clean sweep having already taken out the Herald Business and the YTN Cups at Seoul, both over 2000M. He is steadily asserting himself as the best horse in Korea and he will be hot favourite to prevail again. Should he not be at his best then (6) TUHONUI BANSEOK is an ever-present danger. He was 3rd in the Herald and 2nd in the YTN, and he is the defending champion. He draws nicely to be on pace and Global Hit has a furlong less to get past him here than he did in Seoul. (5) NUT PLAY was 2nd in the Herald and 4th in the YTN. If he can take advantage of the favourable draw here to get in front of Global Hit and make the favourite come past him instead of the other way around, he can be firmly in the finish. (1) GALAXY ROAD hasn’t really managed to mix it in with the elite but enters in very good form and Franco staying on gives him a chance from off the pace. (3) SPEED YOUNG is a stablemate of Global Hit and was 5th in the Herald and 3rd in the YTN. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he has a big win in him eventually and from a good draw, it is not impossible it could be today.

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Beolmaui Star, Eoma Eoma To Clash Again in SROA Chairman’s Sprint

The road to September’s Korea Sprint hots up on Sunday as the domestic Sprint Series reaches its conclusion with the SROA Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G2), a race that is being run for the first time with international Listed status, at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 RACES ACROSS SEOUL & BUSAN ON SUNDAY.

Beolmaui Star and Seo Seung-un (Pic: KRA)

Following his gate to wire win in the SBS Sports Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) on April 14th, BEOLMAUI STAR is the favourite to back up. He ran a huge 2nd to Japanese star Remake in last year’s International Korea Sprint but struggled with his start in the Kookje Shinmun Trophy at Busan last November and then in two forgettable efforts in Dubai to begin the year.

Seoul seems to suit Beolmaui Star though and under Seo Seung-un, he was the fastest away in the SBS Sports Sprint and was never headed, scoring by three-quarters of a length. He comes into a much better gate this time around and so long as he gets the start right, he will prove hard to beat again.

EOMA EOMA was the horse who got closest to Beolmaui Star in the SBS. It was a return to form for the 2022 Korea Sprint winner who had been an underwhelming 5th in the first leg of this year’s series, the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) in March 10th. To add to the intrigue, CC Wong gets legged up for his first real live chance in a Korean Group race.

The result of the Busan Ilbo had hinted at a generational shift as the four-year-old pair of RAON THE POINT and SOMETHING LOST swept home late to finish 1st and 2nd respectively. The older sprinters struck back in Seoul last month but Something Lost finished a close 3rd and Raon The Point is worth another chance from a better draw.

A newcomer on the Sprint Series trail is VICS GO. In the absence of the top line of sprinters he won the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy over 1200M in February but instead of persisting into the Busan Ilbo, he was sent back up to two turns and the Stayer Series instead. That didn’t go well so he comes back down in trip again and from a good gate, can be in the mix.

Several old-favourites among the sprinting ranks return including last year’s winner SSONSAL as well as the venerable MORFHIS, now nine-years-old but a creditable 6th placegetter in the SBS Sports. Among the lesser-known ones, FANTASTIC KINGDOM is a winner of six of nine starts up to class 2 level and while facing the elite at level weights will be a new experience for him, he may just measure up.

The SROA (Seoul Racehorse Owners’ Association) Chairman’s Sprint is race 8 on the 10-race Sunday card at Seoul with a local post time of 16:30.

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

Sprinters take centre-stage on Sunday with the 3rd leg of the Sprint Series, the SROA Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G2) the highlight. There is also Listed action with the Sports Chosun Trophy (2000M). There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 plus 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 17:00. Here are the previews:

Ssonsal beat Eoma Eoma to win last year’s SROA Chairman’s Sprint. Both return (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in the opening maiden and there will be a strong favourite. (6) COMPLETE PARTY has two 3rd places and a 4th among five starts so far and the fastest time among these for the 1200M by a considerable margin. In this company, she can settle just behind the early speed and should prove too strong. (1) BYLONG STAR was 6th to Complete Party’s 4th when they raced each other at 1200M on April 14th. She has certainly shown more in trials than she has at the races, but it marked an improvement, and we could see more here. (9) JANGBI DAEUN debuted fairly back in December and while she hasn’t raced since, she looked well in an April trial and can be a danger. (8) HERO GOLD and (3) STUNNING QUEEN other placing chances.

Selections(6) Complete Party (1) Bylong Star (9) Jangbi Daeun (8) Hero Gold
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

(6) BREEDO KING STAR has two 3rd places and a 4th from his latest three, all at 1400M. In this company he can be expected to be on the pace, and he has every chance of going all the way. (9) DONKEY PLAY wasn’t fancied at all on debut after an undistinguished trial, but she ran a close 2nd over 1200M, coming from off the pace. She should have derived benefit from that experience and while this field is stronger, she could match that or even go one better. Like Breedo King Star, (7) BOLLIN has two 3rd places in his record including at this distance last time out on April 20th. He comes in under the same weight and warrants consideration. (10) TOHOMARKET and (8) WONDERFUL JET others in the frame.

Selections(6) Breedo King Star (9) Donkey Play (7) Bollin (10) Tohomarket
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

(2) FLYING THE FORD did nothing in his first two starts in December and February, but after going back and winning a trial, re-emerged at this distance on April 12th and led for much of the way before finishing 2nd. He draws very nicely to get to the lead here and he will be favourite to go one better. There are three debut-makers and among them, (7) WONDERFUL BIDDER makes for the most appeal. He trialled in October and then again at the end of April, crossing the line in 2nd place in both in good times. This is a great race to debut in and he can be close. (8) SHINING MORNING comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1300M and 1200M in contrasting styles. She continues under a light weight and Choi Si-dae climbs up. (4) WORLD ANGEL CAT and (9) THE BIG SHOT are others to consider.

Selections(2) Flying The Ford (7) Wonderful Bidder (8) Shining Morning (4) World Angel Cat
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(10) USEUNG CONCORD got a 3rd and then a 2nd in two outings late last summer before returning in April and getting his maiden win at start number three over 1200M. Up in class here, he should strip fitter for that run and the step up in trip can suit. He’ll be a short-price favourite. (7) BAEKRYONG remains a maiden after ten attempts but has had plenty of near misses including his last start 2nd at 1300M when trying this distance for the first time. He comes up 2kg in the weights but can be in the mix again. (4) THE SUN FIGHTER similarly enters with recent form reading well. He has the fastest final furlong average time among these and an apprentice claiming 3kg should make him more than competitive. (1) BAEDARI HYANGGI is up in class following a maiden win over this trip on April 7th and he can measure up. (11) STAR RUSH another to consider.

Selections(10) Useung Concord (7) Baekryong (4) The Sun Fighter (1) Baedari Hyanggi
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

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

Fillies only here. (3) SEKWANG CHOEGANG is yet to win but has five top-three finishes from seven starts with a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two, both at 1200M at this class. She has a strong finish on her and having already placed at 1300M, the slight step back up in trip can suit. (6) FLEX DAY took a couple of goes to get used to this level but ran well for 2nd over this distance on April 19th. She comes up 3kg in this company, but a similar effort will see her as a major danger here. (1) RED JASPER is, like Sekwang Choegang, still a maiden and she can mix her form, but she comes in off a last start 3rd place in a similar all filly race over 1400M and from a nice gate and still under a light weight, she shouldn’t be dismissed. (4) JINJU BIT and (2) JAZZ STAR among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(3) Sekwang Choegang (6) Flex Day (1) Red Jasper (4) Jinju Bit
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

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

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

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 30 Million

Competitive maiden with five of the eleven racing for the first time and we’ll go with a first timer in (4) PHANTOM DRAGON. He led all the way to comfortably win a trial in a quick time on May 2nd and if he brings that form to the races, he will be hard to hold out here. (2) YEONGUNG JARYONG was similarly impressive in a trial at the end of April, racing handy and running 2nd behind a class 2 horse. He too draws well, and Moon Se-young’s booking will attract plenty. (1) GRAND LARGE came through two trials, improving in the second of them in early April and he too can go well first-up here. As for those with experience, (11) CUPID MIR looks the best with a one 3rd and four 4th place finishes to his name. (5) WONDERFUL LORD may improve on a nondescript debut.

Selections(4) Phantom Dragon (2) Yeongung Jaryong (1) Grand Large (11) Cupid Mir
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (4) EAST RISING was a much-improved 2nd at start number two over 1200M on April 14th, racing handy throughout and only narrowly missing out. She draws well to be on pace again and she can go one better here. (7) AMAZING ROCK similarly improved on her second start, when 4th over 1400M on April 28th. In this company she too can be expected to be on the pace from the start and she should be in this a long way. (6) CHOGANGBULPAE has a 2nd place on her resume from two starts back over this distance. She then got a bit far back before running on for 4th place at her latest effort on April 21st. She should be in this. (10) WONDERFUL WELLS and (9) YONGBI QUEEN are the other placing chances.

Selections(4) East Rising (7) Amazing Rock (6) Chogangbulpae (10) Wonderful Wells
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

Since landing his maiden win in January, (8) ROYAL BEST has two 4th places and a close 2nd in three attempts at this class. That 2nd was last time out on April 21st when he led close to home and with CC aboard again, he can go one better. The main danger is (11) JECHUK IHO. He is yet to win but has finished no worse than 4th in six starts. Most recently, he was 3rd in that April 21st race, just half a length behind Royal Best. That was his first outing since last November so he should strip fitter for the run and the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. Another non-winner with plenty of near misses is (7) SSEULMO. An on-pace type, he comes in off a 2nd place finish at this class and distance on April 13th when he led for much of the way, and he should be in the finish again here. (9) SAENAE VIVA and (3) ARCH CLASS among others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(8) Royal Best (11) Jechuk Iho (7) Sseulmo (9) Saenae Viva
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (11) APPLE QUEEN got her maiden win over 1200M on April 14th leading every step of the way. She comes up in class here, and she has the challenge of the widest gate, but with only three starts to her name there is plenty of scope for more development and this looks a winnable assignment again. (5) GOLDBERG comes in having beaten a couple of today’s rivals on her way to 4th place at this class over 1200M on April 13th. She can settle behind the speed and should be challenging late on. (7) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL is winless, but she finishes off her races well and she can be beating the 5th place she secured last time out on what was her first try at this class. (4) MY THUNDER and (10) GREEN VIVACE are others who can enter the placing calculations.

Selections(11) Apple Queen (5) Goldberg (7) Gangcheol Yeogeol (4) My Thunder
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 11

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

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