AT SEOUL ON SUNDAY THE 26TH RUNNING OF THE MINISTER’S CUP PRODUCED A DRAMATIC FINISH WITH FUNNY WILD PRODUCING A VERY GAME PERFORMANCE TO SCORE BUT, ON THE UNDERCARD, THE MAIN HANDICAP WAS THE CONCLUDING CLASS 2 AND REMEMBER AGAIN ran out an easy five-length winner under CC Wong (writes Luke Humphreys).
Remember Again (Chrysolite) had failed at his first run at Class 2 level in April when using too much petrol in the run, but under a conservative ride by CC Wong, who was aboard for the first time, he pulled away to score. King Honor continued his recent good form with a 2nd place finish for him whilst The Player was a neck behind him in 3rd. The 1.9 favourite More Than Joke could only managed 6th.
Whilst Funny Wild was the star of the day the most well-known horse running on the day was LALA K (Hansen) and he recorded his first victory since his famous juvenile days when holding on to win Race 9 (1200M Class 3) by a head as the 2.6 favourite.
Lala K went viral on the internet when winning the 2023 Rookie Stakes coming from an incredibly long last and had only won once since in the NACF Chairman’s Trophy later that year. That changed on Sunday as he raced on pace and fell in to score, the total opposite of his famous Rookie Stakes victory. Haksan Dark Horse, attempting to replicate his course, distance, and grade victory from April, was narrowly denied whilst the Japanese bred Gwanaksan Rickey, 4.2 second choice, did his chances no good with a horrible start and was a never nearer 5th.
CHEONGSAN DOLPUNG (Shackleford) had been knocking on the door for a victory after chasing home some decent types in recent starts and he got his elusive first win in Race 3 (1200M Class 5) with a comfortable four-length score as the 2.0 favourite. Fifty minutes later in Race 4 (1300M Class 5) LOVERMAN (To Honor And Serve) took advantage of the leaders going too fast too soon with a last to first victory at much bigger odds of 22.0 completing a race-to-race double for jockey Jang Chu-youl and trainer Lee Gwan-ho. That race saw the 3.0 favourite Stepping Stone miss the start before being rousted up to take a forward role and was one of the first beaten finishing 9th of the eleven runners.
Jang Chu-youl completed a treble in Race 6 (1600M Class 4) on SLING STAR (To Honor And Serve) who was excellent in completing four victories in a row with a one-and-three quarter length score under the topweight of 58kg. Yongbi Hero was 2nd and is surely close to a win whilst the 3.2 favourite Mighty Choice was 3rd.
The victory of Sling Star completed a double on the day for trainer Kim Dong-kyun as STUNNING BOLT (Cowboy Cal) scored for him and Furkan Yuksel in Race 2 (1300M Class 6).
The Triple Crown series draws to a close on Sunday and while there isn’t a sweep on the line, or even a Derby winner in the field, the Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G2) has drawn a full field of sixteen three-year-old colts and it should be a very tricky puzzle. There are 10 races at Seoul on Sunday between 10:35 and 17:55 as well as 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:
My Dream Day thwarted a Triple Crown bid a year ago (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Competitive opening maiden. (5) STUNNING SKET came from off the pace to run a strong 2nd on debut over 1200M on April 25th. He should have come on for the run, the additional half furlong can suit, and he can win. (1) STORM CRUSH was 5th on debut and then 2nd at start number two over this distance on April 11th. She too has been doing her best work late so can continue to improve at 1300M and she should be very fit. (10) BARAMGAEBI has two 3rd places and a 4th from three outings to date and while he needs to contend with the widest gate, he can be there or thereabouts again. (7) NINE SPEAR and (4) DUKE SOCKS are other place chances.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Nine fillies and one colt in this maiden. (4) STUNNING BOLT has been around the mark in her recent outings with a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, both over this distance. She has generally settled back and run on but has raced on pace before and with little early speed in this race and from a good draw, she can be further forward than usual and she can win. Solitary colt (9) SONNY K ran a fair 4th on debut over 1200M. He was well back behind the placings but should have come on for the run and can improve here. (5) NIGHT CAPTAIN enters off back-to-back 4th place finishes in contrasting styles and can be matching or bettering those in this company. (10) AREUMDAUN BIT and (8) YEONGDONG STAR are others to consider on a place line.
Selections
(4) Stunning Bolt (9) Sonny K (5) Night Captain (10) Areumdaun Bit
Next Best
8, 1
Fast Start
4, 7, 8, 10
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After a 3rd, a 4th and most recently a 2nd place when stepped up to this distance for the first time on April 26th, (1) WIN NOW could be ready to do just that. In his latest two, he has got a long way back from wide draws but should be further forward today and can be the one to beat. (6) OVER RAINBOW has mixed his form across five starts so far with his 3rd place over 1200M two outings back his best. His racing style suggests that the extended trip today can suit. (9) GRAND HERO was much improved when a close 2nd over 1300M on May 3rd and can continue to make progress here. (2) NICE POWER is another one in the placing hunt while watch the market with debut-maker (8) OASIS TIME. His trial didn’t stand out but his stable is known for sending their juveniles around big distances very early and often pick up a few wins.
Selections
(1) Win Now (6) Over Rainbow (9) Grand Hero (2) Nice Power
Next Best
8, 5
Fast Start
2, 5, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(7) CHEONGSAN DOLPUNG is yet to win but has never finished any worse than 5th and has four runner-up finishes, including his latest on May 2nd when beating three of today’s rivals when suffering a narrow reverse. He is up 2.5kg on that but in this company, today can be his day. (4) YEONGGWANGUI SKY returned from four months out in April and has since run 5th twice, most recently on May 9th when beating a couple who re-oppose today. An apprentice takes 3kg off his back and third-up he can be peaking fitness-wise. (2) GEOLJAK TIARA was 5th to Cheongsan Dolpung’s 2nd on May 2nd and from a good gate and under a very light weight, she can get closet today. (6) BLACK SPECTER and (3) DAEWONYONGMA others who are perhaps better than their respective latest outings suggest.
Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(3) WIND SWORD enters off two 3rd places and a 5th from his last three outings, all at this class and distance and each time coming from off the pace. He doesn’t get an apprentice claim here but he beat a couple of today’s rivals last time and he can beat all of them today. The apprentice claim goes to (5) BLACK JILJU. He comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at this class and distance, most recently in a very quick time on May 3rd when racing on pace. On that form, she is a winning chance here. (4) MAGIC SWEETIE got a long way back before running on last time out. She was a class and distance winning in January and was 2nd in March and can be given another chance here. (2) B.K MAGIC and (8) SAMJEONG TODAY others in the placing frame.
Seoul Race 4 Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(10) STEPPING STONE won a trial and then won on debut on April 25th over 1200M, starting steadily but then quickly ridden up to be handy. He is up in class but down 3kg in weight, the additional half furlong can suit, and he can win again. (6) P N S NALA returned from seven months out to run a fair 5th over this distance on May 17th, showing on pace before weakening late. He should strip fitter for that run and can get closer today. (3) JOY CHEONHA is yet to win in fourteen but has seven top five finishes, including a last start 4th on May 2nd. He has placed twice over this distance and well-drawn and under a lightweight, he can be in the mix again. (2) WONDERFUL SPIRIT and (1) LUCKY SUNNY are the other main chances.
Selections
(10) Stepping Stone (6) P N S Nala (3) Joy Cheonha (2) Wonderful Spirit
Next Best
1, 8
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 9
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) MY DOLPUNG is a Seo In-seok prepared Old Fashioned filly that has trialled three times with the most recent of those resulting in a third on May 21 beaten a length. She can go close on debut as can (5) DONGJIN BIRYUONG who is by Mischieviously and is from the stables of Moon Byeong-ki and Johan Victoire is on board. His best trial was his latest and that was a second place. (10) SPICY JERRY has trialled twice for a seventh and fourth and is trained by Lee Shin-woo and is a daughter of Indie Band. The Luigi Riccardi prepared (3) DYNAMIC FORCE rates next over (11) P.K. BEST and (6) TIGER REVENGER.
Selections
(4) My Dolpung (5) Dongjin Biryuong (10) Spicy Jerry (3) Dynamic Force
Next Best
11, 6
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 9, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) GLOBAL LAND has been a beaten favourite on a couple of occasions but in better maidens than this and she strikes a winnable race here so she can break through. (3) SPICE BAND drops down in trip after making a mid-race move to take the lead last start before finishing fourth. She is getting better and can go close. (7) THE QUEEN ROSE made up some ground to finish fifth last time which was the best run of her career to date. (9) TAEGEUK WANGJA has also come from well back at his last two to run third and fourth respectively and rates next over (6) PNS WORK and (5) MR.CREDIT, which is down in trip by 300M on his last two.
Selections
(4) Global Land (3) Spice Band (7) The Queen Rose (9) Taegeuk Wangja
Next Best
6, 5
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 7
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) POINT I was midfield on debut before finishing second on May 9 beaten two-and-a-half lengths and that form is good enough to go very close to winning this. (5) RACE DIVA has gotten closer in each of her three runs to date and has been behind some smart winners each time and she gets the chance to run into the placings for the first time if not win. (3) POWER MAGIC is another that has been just behind the placegetters in three starts and is another that can place for the first time let alone win. (11) EVER LOVELY draws wide but rates next over (10) PLAY STAY and (1) RAON FLARE.
Selections
(2) Point I (5) Race Diva (3) Power Magic (11) Ever Lovely
Next Best
10, 1
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(4) MUNHAK FIGHTER has only won once from thirteen attempts but has only missed the top five twice so he is consistent and after finishing second in two of his past three he can be involved in the finish once more and potentially get the prize. (2) BANK LINE was midfield at big odds in her first run at this class last time but ran a subsequent winner to a length at her previous start so she is worth being given a chance. (8) HOT FEVER comes to this grade for the first time after back-to-back second places in maidens. (5) HAPPY TOGETHER beat Bank Line at her only victory back in January and will be around the mark with (11) CHALLENGE SOCKS and (6) SMART MARU next best.
Selections
(4) Munhak Fighter (2) Bank Line (8) Hot Fever (5) Happy Together
Next Best
11, 6
Fast Start
1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
The Queens’ Tour Spring/Summer comes to a conclusion on Sunday with the KNN Cup (1600M KOR-G3) attracting a full field of sixteen fillies and mares to the south coast. The big race is race 6 on the 7-race card at Busan which runs from 11,25 to 16.55. There are also 10 races at Seoul with a class 1 test over 2300M as the feature. Seoul’s card runs from 10.35 to 17.55. Here are the previews:
Raon Forest will seek to defend her KNN Cup crown (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million
Northern hemisphere two-year-olds and southern three-year-olds with all but one of the eight racing for the first time. The experienced one is (3) SOUTH CARNIVAL, who has raced twice for a 3rd and a 2nd, both at 1200M. He was on pace in his latest on March 28th and should have a fitness edge on these. (4) HOPE K was an all the way trial winner in a quick time just two weeks ago, crossing the line ten-lengths to the good. If he brings that form to the races, he can prove hard to beat. (7) GRAND PAS CLASSIC was also a commanding trial winner, leading all the way to score by four. He too can be a danger first-up. (2) SAUDI SOCKS and (6) MIGHTY SAVER others who hinted at ability in their heats.
Selections
(3) South Carnival (4) Hope K (7) Grand Pas Classic (2) Saudi Socks
Next Best
6, 8
Fast Start
1, 2, 3 , 4
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and while (2) FLYING SMART has been a beaten favourite in both her starts so far at 1300M and 1400M when settling right back and running on, the fitness edge can be crucial. At the shorter distance, she can be further forward from a better gate, and she can win. (11) BEAUTIFULLY beat a couple of today’s rivals on her debut on April 25th, racing handy over this distance. She has the challenge of the widest gate, but she should have come on for that run and she can be close. Among the debut makers, (9) WHITE JACKPOT ran 2nd in a decent time in a May 14th trial and can put in a bold showing first up. (5) MASK GIRL was 5th behind Beautifull on debut and from a better gate and second up, can improve. (6) PNS BEAUTY another first-timer who can be competitive.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
Eight fillies and one gelding in the south coast opener. (4) WIDAEHAN HEART debuted all the way back in October of last year, running a strong 2nd over 1000M. She then went lame but has been back in work since March and looked well when 2nd in a trial on May 7th. She is the one to beat here. (6) NORTHERN QUEEN has mixed her form a little over her six starts but going on her 2nd place two outings back when leading close to home, she has to rate as a chance in this company. (5) DIA X is an eighteen-race maiden but has two placings and no fewer than ten finishes in either 4th or 5th and he can be close today. (7) MAGIC TREE was a nondescript 7th on debut all the way back in July last year. She hasn’t raced since but returned to regular work at the start of April and has trialed well. Debut-maker (1) WONDERFUL PAS went through two trials and should be nice and fit on debut.
Selections
(4) Widaehan Heart (6) Northern Queen (5) Dia X (7) Magic Tree
Next Best
1, 3
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 7
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(5) SAENAE RANIA has thrived since being stepped up to this trip, recording back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both times racing on pace. From a good draw, she will be on the speed again, and she can win. (11) JECHUK SANJIRO ran 3rd at start number two over this distance in April. He leaned in heavily when 5th over 1700M on May 9th to the extent that he was sent back to trial and having come through that in fine fashion, he is a chance today. (6) SEOPOKCHAT has a 3rd and three 4th places to his name. He has settled back and run on strongly each time. He comes up to the 1400M for the first time and there is every chance that it can suit. (10) UMARU and (3) TRIPLE S are other place chances.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(5) STEALTH KINGMAN was an on pace 2nd in a decent time over 1300M on April 17th. He should have come on for the run and from a good draw he can be on pace again and this time he can go one better. (4) PILSEUNG WINNER returned from over three months off in April and has since run 3rd and 4th at 1400M and at this distance, settling in midfield and running on. Third-up this preparation, she can be peaking fitness wise, and she can be close. (3) MORE QUICKLY enters off a best to date 4th place on May 17th and should be aiming to match or better that in this company. (7) WONDERFUL WIND and (8) WORLD TRIPLE CAT are others in contention for the minors.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(10) NINJA TIGER is yet to win, though she is far from alone here. She comes up in class following two 3rd places and most recently a 2nd at 1300M on May 2nd and under a light weight, she has as good a chance as any. (5) HAKSAN PRINCE is a twenty-one-race maiden but has placed on eight occasions, including last time out when 3rd at this class over 1700M. Four of his five runner-up finishes have come at 1400M and while he has his fair share of weight, he can be a danger. (7) WONPYEONG GANGJA has come from off the pace to run 3rd in both his latest two at this class and distance and he can do similar today. (2) GOLD SPINNING has at least won at this distance and along with (8) HANGANG FANTASTIC, can be considered on a place line.
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are 10 races from 10.35 to 17.55. The capital hosts its first juvenile race of the year in the shape of the opener while the feature is a class 2 even over the rarely used distance of 1900M (race 9) featuring up and coming US import G B Vault. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million
(6) GRAND POKPUNG is a Park Jae-woo prepared Concord Point filly that has been around the mark in two trials with a fifth beaten six-and-a-half lengths on April 23 before a third seven days later beaten nine-lengths. MAJOR FURY (2) is a Revolutionary colt from the Kim Dong-kyun stables who has trialled once on April 30 for a four-length second. He is the only colt with fifty-three kilograms on his back as he gets a two-kilogram apprentice claim from Woo In-cheol and will go close. (9) LOOM CHUKJE trialled back on April 16 and was second throughout beaten seven-lengths and is a filly by Connect trained by An Byung-ki. (1) ROAD TO CHAMPION is an Indie Band colt with Jung Ho-ik who has one-and-a-three quarter lengths to find with Grand Pokpung from his solitary trial on April 30. They are the main quarter for the first juvenile race of the season with (5) BLITZ CARA and (3) NAMGYEONG SPINNING next best.
Selections
(6) Grand Pokpung (2) Major Fury (9) Loom Chukje (1) Road To Champion
Next Best
5, 3
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 6, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(8) RAPID STORM trialled well when coming from midfield to win by a length on April 23 and this Shim Seung-tae prepared four-year-old filly by Thunder Moccasin must be a good chance of winning on her debut based on that effort. (2) BINNALEEDS is getting closer to a win and should get her chance from a low draw under Luis Quiroz. (3) JEJU BLUE has been around the mark in three runs to date which include a second on March 2. (9) BEAT CODE has also been close-up in three starts finishing just behind the placegetters in each. (5) ROAD TO PERFECT, (4) DANAEUN RICH and (6) SEONGSIL WINNER are the other chances.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(9) MANGEUM DAON ran a one-length second to a subsequent winner on debut back in October before resuming with a fifth at the start of last month. He brings the best form, primarily from his debut effort, and if he stays, he will go close. (8) BROWN JACKPOT could be a roughie chance as she gets a weight swing on (3) BEOLGYO ALADDIN from April 12 when she was two-lengths behind the latter who carries three kilograms extra in this race. Beolgyo Aladdin has subsequently been second on April 25 when attempting to lead throughout. (2) WONDERFUL DARSHAAN has not been too far away in many of his runs and once again receives a two-kilogram apprentice claim from Woo In-cheol. (10) BLUE DRAGON rates next over (7) WONDERFUL CATHY.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(1) RAPID THUNDER has been beaten into second in his two runs where he has completed the course, as an odds-on chance each time, and whilst letting punters down on those occasions he should really be going close to breaking through here. However, he will need to get away a lot better than last start when he dumped Jo Jae-ro leaving the gates as a 2.5 favourite and was out of business from the word go. (10) ORATORIUM led throughout to win by a nose last start in a 1300M maiden on April 25 and the second placed horse subsequently won very easily last week so there is no reason she cannot go up one grade and win again. (11) YES ANGEL was five-lengths behind (4) GWANAKSAN CHECK IN last start, when the latter stormed past tiring rivals late to win easily, however whilst she carried two-and-a-half kilograms less than Gwanaksan Check In that time in this race it is six kilograms less so she could turn the form around. There is a lot of early speed in the race so that will suit Gwanaksan Check In. The consistent (9) PNS GONGJA rates next over (8) MIRACLE SOCKS, (5) JURING SKY, (2) NAREUSYA NOVA and (6) AMOS STAR in a competitive race.
The Stayer Series concludes at Busan this Sunday with Clean One making his return to face off against Success Baekpa, Speed Young, Global Hit et.al. in the final leg of the Stayer Series, the Busan Mayor’s Cup (1800M KOR-G2). There are 7 races at Busan from 11.25 to 16.55 and 10 at Seoul from 10.35 to 17.55. Here are the previews:
Success Baekpa and Global Hit reoppose on Sunday (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(7) GOLD ID didn’t do much on debut in March and ended back in a trial on April 16th where she cruised away to cross the line 1st in a quick time. It is worth mentioning that she had trialed well before her debut too, but she is worth another chance here. (8) JISAN COMING SOON went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them when on pace throughout. If he brings that form to the races, he can be a danger first-up. (4) PIEONARI ran a fair 5th on debut over this distance on May 2nd, racing handy throughout and beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process and he can improve here. (6) CHRYSOL HEELS and (10) PNS LEAF other potential improvers.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After a good trial, (6) NAEGILUIWONDERFUL was sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on April 25th and after a slow start, rallied for 4th place. He should have come on for that run and with a better break has every chance today. (5) COWBOY QUEEN was 5th on debut and followed up with a 2nd and most recently a 3rd place in two subsequent outings, both at 1200M. She stays under a light weight with an apprentice claim, she draws well and she can be a big danger. (9) PASA ACE was an improved 3rd at start four over 1300M on April 26th, settling midfield and running on. He too keeps the same apprentice claim and can go close. (10) LOVING PURPLE and (1) SMART GRAND others in the minor money frame.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(6) PERFECT POINT has made steady progress across four starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over this distance on April 19th when on pace throughout. He’ll be on pace again, Seo Seung-un climbs on for the first time, and today can be the day. (11) O.K. BABY was a very close 2nd at start number two over this distance on May 1st when he very nearly led all the way. Without an apprentice claim he is up 3kg in the weights and he has to contend with the widest gate, but he can be in the mix again. There are five debut makers and (9) PACHOUI KKUM looked good when winning a trial in a quick time on April 23rd, showing handy throughout. If she brings that form to the races, she is a big chance first up. (4) FLASH COCO and (5) BORYEONG THE QUEEN are others with experience who can improve.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) MEGA WIND has made progress across three starts so far with his latest being his best when 4th over 1300M on May 2nd when racing on pace. He draws well to lead again, the slight step up in trip shouldn’t be a problem, and he can win. (10) DUSON LIFE registered a 3rd place two outings back over 1300M and while he could only manage 5th on his latest at this distance on April 19th, he can be given another chance here. Duson Life will need to overturn the form on (6) GRAY PHANTOM, who ran 4th in that April 19th race, coning from well off the pace. The same apprentice keeps her weight nice and light and she can match or better that today. (1) M J VET, who comes out of a 2nd place in a very limited race, and solitary debut-maker (9) BREEDO EPIC, are others in the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Mega Wind (10) Duson Life (6) Gray Phantom (1) M J Vet
Next Best
9, 8
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
After finishing 5th on debut, (2) MAEUMMEOGEUNDAERO was an on-pace 3rd at start number two over 1300M on April 17th. Third-up he can be peaking, he draws well and the slight step up in trip shouldn’t stop him from breaking through. (1) GAON PERFECT was 3rd on debut over 1300M on March 20th before running 4th in that April 17th race, laying out for part of the race. He has four-lengths to find on Maeummeogeundaero but shapes as a big danger. (5) TEAHO beat three of today’s rivals when a much-improved 3rd as the longest shot on the bard on April 24th. He gets the same apprentice allowance today and warrants more respect. (3) WORLD BOLD MAN and (4) SKY BOY others in the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Maeummeogeundaero (1) Gaon Perfect (5) Teaho (3) World Bold Man
Next Best
4, 6
Fast Start
2, 3, 6, 8
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Feature race is number 7 on the card where the unbeaten ROSHE will step up to class 2 level and take on the likes of Raon Silence, New Dolkong and My Empire over 1600M. Here are the previews:
Roshe (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(11) WHIZ POINT has been a beaten favourite in each of his two runs to date, but he has been placed on each occasion and that form is the best on offer in this race by a long way so he really should be breaking through. (5) NEUNGRYEOK DORYEONG is a Shim Seung-tae prepared Nitrous gelding on debut that has trialled once for a three-length third when prominent throughout on April 16. (6) LEGEND MATCH has been just behind the placegetters in all four of his runs and made-up ground from last most recently on April 19 and in doing so ran past the reopposing (2) ONNURI BIT who incidentally rates next over (3) NASCA BULCHUNGGAEK and (4) PRIME STAR.
Selections
(11) Whiz Point (5) Neungryeok Doryeong (6) Legend Match (2) Onnuri Bit
Next Best
3, 4
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(9) BLACK MAMA went within a nose of breaking her maiden last start after finishing just behind the placegetters in her previous couple of runs. She is one of five horses in the race that will be in unknown territory inside the last couple of furlongs but if she stays, she can win. (11) SEMYEONG PEAK has been consistent in seven runs and has not been too far behind a couple of good winners so she must be a chance, but she is also up big in trip. (6) BLACK SUN came from last to run fourth over this distance last start so she will stay and will go close too. (4) SPICE BAND should be around the mark once more with (10) SMART MINK and (2) NURI EUTTEUM next best.
Selections
(9) Black Mama (11) Semyeong Peak (6) Black Sun (4) Spice Band
Next Best
10, 2
Fast Start
2, 3, 5, 7, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(4) CHEONGONGUI SEOM has been placed in two runs this time in over the course, distance, and grade with the winners of those two races going on to subsequently win again and finish a narrow second respectively. He will go close once more and can take first prize this time. (8) TIGER BULPAE has been consistent without winning but she could very well break her duck this time even though she has three-and-a-quarter lengths to find with Cheongongui Seom from March 14. (11) RAON THE CLARA won an incident packed maiden by a wide margin in February before finishing a narrow third on her first run at this level as an odds-on chance. She could go a couple of places better whilst (2) SEVEN KAISER is another who has not been far away and rounds off the key four chances with (1) MY WAY BOSS and (10) JEONGSEONG FACTOR rating next.
Selections
(4) Cheongongui Seom (8) Tiger Bulpae (11) Raon The Clara (2) Seven Kaiser
Next Best
1, 10
Fast Start
1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(6) JEONGSANG HERA has chased home Di Ne and subsequent Derby winner Hwang Geum Eo Jang at her last two starts and she ran the latter to a neck when they met on December 6 so that is naturally outstanding form. She was best of the rest behind another top liner in Roshe at the trials on April 30 and should get every chance to win first-up. (10) NAOL AURORA looked good when leading throughout to win her maiden by six-lengths last start and must come in with a decent chance. (11) GOLDEN DIVA is a last start course, distance, and grade winner and whilst going up five pounds and three kilograms for that neck victory she is a hope of repeating. (8) CALL ME SKY has been a beaten odds-on chance at her last two but if you fancy her to win this time you will get better odds. (7) STEEPLE and (3) MIGHTY SHINE rate next, the former had the latter back in third way back on August 23 in a race Jeongsang Hera was second in and the subsequent Oaks winner Catch Race was fourth in.
Selections
(6) Jeongsang Hera (10) Naol Aurora (11) Golden Diva (8) Call Me Sky
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
2, 3, 6, 10, 11
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
It’s “Owners’ Day” in Seoul this Sunday and in the feature race Vincero Cavallo will bid to complete back-to-back clean sweeps of the the Sprint Series. The SROA Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G2) is race 8 with a local post time of 16:30. There are 10 Sunday races in Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 in Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(2) GOLDEN WARRIOR has started to figure things out across her latest couple with a 5th and most recently a close 3rd place on April 18th at this distance when, as has been her habit, she was slow away before running on well. So long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, she can win here. (6) CRUSH GIRL also came from a long way back to run a fair 4th on debut over 1200M. She should have derived benefit from that run, the slight step up in trip can suit, and she is a chance here. (4) NINE SPEAR enters off a 3rd place over 1200M on April 18th and can be in the finish again. (5) B.K. VIVACE and (9) DANAEUN RUBY are others who can be considered on a place line.
Selections
(2) Golden Warrior (6) Crush Girl (4) Nine Spear (5) B.K. Vivace
Next Best
9, 8
Fast Start
3, 4, 7, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(7) BEST FREEDOM has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, both times coming from just behind the speed over 1400M. There’s not much early speed in this race so he shapes as the potential leader here and he can win. (4) HWARANGSAN JEONGGI has eight top five finishes including each of his latest four, all over this distance. He likes to settle back and run on, and he can be challenging late here. (8) SUNGANUI FIGHTER has mixed his form across his five appearances so far but if we go on his 2nd place at this distance at the start of March when he was on the speed, he has to be given a chance here. (6) THE SUN COMING is back in trip and comes out of a trial and along with (1) CHEONDUNGUI JILJU is another in the placing frame.
Selections
(7) Best Freedom (4) Hwarangsan Jeonggi (8) Sunganui Fighter (6) The Sun Coming
Next Best
1, 2
Fast Start
1, 2, 7, 8
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(1) POWERFUL BATTLE comes in off a much-improved narrow 2nd place to Powerful Thunder, who went on to win again on Friday (albeit after the favourite unseated his rider). Drawing the same inside gate he can be on pace again and this time he will be a short price to go one better. There is one debut-maker. (5) FANTASTIC CITY is a half-brother to seven-time winner Baekduui Kkum and looked competent enough in the second of two trials, settling midfield and running on pleasingly enough. This is a nice race to start off in. (8) NOBLE WIND was 4th on debut over 1200M on April 26th and with some natural improvement, can build on that here. (2) SAENAE HILL and (9) HIGH TENSION others who could compete for the minors.
Selections
(1) Powerful Battle (5) Fantastic City (8) Noble Wind (2) Saenae Hill
Next Best
9, 10
Fast Start
1, 7, 8, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (1) VINCENT KATHY obliged on debut on April 12th with an all the way score over 1200M. She is up in class here and doesn’t get a weight break but from the inside gate she can lead again and win again. (11) X TEN got her maiden win three starts back over 1300M and has a 5th and a 3rd in two subsequent outings at this level. Seo Seung-un, in town for the big race later, is an interesting booking, and she will be close. (6) GANGHAN GAMMA was 3rd in that April 12th race, settling back early before being ridden up to behind the speed. She is yet to win in four attempts but that was her third consecutive placing, and she can measure up in this company. (9) CHEONG WOL and (7) MIGHTY CAP among others firmly in the hunt.
Selections
(1) Vincent Kathy (11) X Ten (6) Ganghan Gamma (9) Cheong Wol
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) HWARYEOHAN SUNGAN enters off a very close 2nd place over a mile on April 19th. He also has a 3rd place at this distance and with Nam Jong-hyeok’s 2kg claim, he can make his breakthrough today. (8) SPACE GOLD has made progress across three outings so far with his best being his latest on March 1st when 4th over this distance. His times haven’t been quick, but he looks to have the potential for more and in this company, he can continue to get closer. (7) HANGANG BRAVO similarly comes in following is best to date when 4th over 1200M at the end of February. He comes in fresh following eleven weeks off and against this opposition should be aiming for better. (1) LIKE DRAGON and (2) GREAT POWER other minor money chances.
Selections
(4) Hwaryeohan Sungan (8) Space Gold (7) Hangang Bravo (1) Like Dragon
Next Best
2, 9
Fast Start
1, 2, 7, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(4) AESUNI got her maiden win in convincing fashion on March 1st, leading all the way. She came close to repeating the trick on April 11th on her first try at this class, ultimately coming home 2nd. She does come up 3.5kg in weight here, but that’s balanced by a good draw and she can win here. The one she’ll need to beat is (7) GEUMJEOKSAN. She got her win at start two over this distance last November and has held her own in three outings since at this class at 1300M and 1400M. She is another who likes to be on pace and cutting back in trip, she is a big danger. (9) PANGPANG DAERO and (10) MUNHAK FIGHTER came home 4th and 5th respectively when they raced each other at this class and distance on April 18th. They both come up 2.5kg in weight, but it shouldn’t stop either from being competitive here. Up in class last start winner (5) HAKSAN TAEPUNG can measure up.
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10.35 to 17.55. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) DREAM DIA is the only horse engaged to have run into second place in their career to date and in her case, it was two runs ago on March 21 when grabbed in the last couple of strides. She dropped out and only beat one home last start, when an odds-on chance, which is a concern but if she runs to the form of two back, she can win. (1) BULGEUN YEOJEONSA has been fifth in two runs to date and can get a bit closer in this. (6) MAX MAN has been just behind the placegetters in the majority of his five starts to date and can be around the mark once more. (9) STUNNING CALIBER had two tenth places followed by three consecutive sixth place finishes before a career best third last time. (2) K-QUEEN is next best over (5) LOVELY JACKPOT.
Selections
(4) Dream Dia (1) Bulgeun Yeojeonsa (6) Max Man (9) Stunning Caliber
Next Best
2, 5
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 8, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(6) BEST SECRET went off well in the market when fourth in a much stronger maiden than this on debut, the winner has subsequently won again, and whilst she was beaten nine-and-a-quarter lengths she can go a few places better. (8) HAKSAN HENNY is the only one in the field to have run second in a race and that came last start on March 22 when running Kia Ora to four-lengths. He has not been too far away in most of his runs to date and that should be the case again here. (5) VICAR DELLA is a Seo In-seok prepared Uncaptured filly on debut that has had the two trials with the best of those her most recent when second beaten one-length on April 23. (10) CHEONGGANG BOM rates next over (11) SMART TOUCH and the other of the two debutantes (2) PNS WINNER.
Selections
(6) Best Secret (8) Haksan Henny (5) Vicar Della (10) Cheonggang Bom
Next Best
11, 2
Fast Start
2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(10) GEUMA ON POINT was having his first run since having “the ultimate gear change” last start and the Calandagan treatment seemed to do him well as he ran the best race of his career for second at odds of 113/1. It will be interesting to see if he can back that performance up. (4) WONDERFUL CHIEF has had the four runs with the best of those being a fifth two back and could go close for Jo Jae-ro and Seo In-seok, the winning combination from last week’s Oaks and of course the Vincero Cavallo jockey/trainer combination too. The Japanese owned (8) JEJU PRINCESS is a chance at her best. (9) PERFECT GAME comes off the best run of his career last start and gets a three-kilogram apprentice claim from Kwon Jung-seok. (2) WADALBI and (3) ILGEUP BISUL rate next.
Selections
(10) Geuma On Point (4) Wonderful Chief (8) Jeju Princess (9) Perfect Game
Next Best
2, 3
Fast Start
1, 6, 8, 9, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(6) STORM LIGHT broke through at the sixth time of asking last start when leading throughout to win a course and distance maiden by four-lengths. This is a strong Class 5, but she can go back-to-back. (4) BLAZING ENGINE won his maiden two starts back on March 14 before finishing second in his first run at this grade last time. (2) NICE WINNER is yet to live up to his name as he is still a maiden, but he has the ability at his best. (8) AFLEET RUN has also got the ability but will need to improve on his most recent run back on March 7 when he was resuming from eight months away from the races. (7) KLIMT WORLD and (1) K SIMON are each-way roughie chances with (11) SSOARA HAHA next best in a good race.
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(10) GREEN JACKET has had the three starts for three second places, chasing home a couple of smart ones, and after running home hard last start he looks ready to win. The last 400M will be unknown territory but he should stay it out based on last time. (6) PRIMERO is a last start course and distance maiden winner where he led throughout to score by one-and-a-quarter lengths over the reopposing Yeomyeongui Sungan. He will race in a forward role and should be in the finish from there. (8) GANGCHEOL POWER came from well back to win at this grade in November but has not been quite as good since, however he did pull up lame in one of those runs. He however rates next over (9) KARA K, (7) SHARKTEN and (1) YEOMYEONGUI SUNGAN.
Selections
(10) Green Jacket (6) Primero (8) Gangcheol Power (9) Kara K
Next Best
7, 1
Fast Start
4, 6, 9, 10
Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(4) WHIZ PERFECT ran The Sun Bulsajo to a neck when finishing second last start over the course, distance, and grade and whilst coming up four pounds and one-and-a-half kilograms for that minor placing he can go one better here with that piece of form just about the best on offer in this. (10) COMPLETE STEP also comes off a recent course, distance, and grade silver medal when beaten three-quarters of a length behind Gwanaksan Rickey on Derby weekend. That was his best run at Class 4 level for some time, his two prior starts where he ran third were Class 5 contests, and he can go well again. The Japanese bred (1) NARO MA STAR is yet to win but can be around the mark. (11) MUCHO MACHO RAPIDO has been midfield in three runs to date and rates next over (9) WINNERSUN whilst (2) HIDDEN DIA could potentially find this to be the easiest task of her career to date. (7) KOREAN DREAM is one that should not be discarded as well.
Selections
(4) Whiz Perfect (10) Complete Step (1) Naro Ma Star (11) Mucho Macho Rapido
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11
Seoul Race 7: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / Kyushu Maju Association President’s Cup / KRW 75 Million
(7) WORLD BLAME has only won one race from twenty-one attempts which is a concern, as is his last start effort, but his efforts two and three back behind smart horses is the best form engaged in this race, so he gets the nod for Luiz Quiroz. (9) YEONGWON BIG MAN is a last start half-length course, distance, and grade winner and comes down one kilogram for that run with Kwon Jung-seok taking the three-kilogram claim, so he is an obvious chance. (6) BS STORM is yet to score at this level from three runs and comes off a poor recent effort at the end of March. His prior form was good however so he can be given another chance. (8) BLUE NELLO is a regular in these types of races and is regularly involved somewhere in the finish as well. (4) COLGIN rates next over (2) SUPER BLUEMOON.
Selections
(7) World Blame (9) Yeongwon Big Man (6) BS Storm (8) Blue Nello
Next Best
4, 2
Fast Start
3, 4, 6, 7, 9
Seoul Race 8: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(8) JJARITHAN HAENGBOK will have to do a lot better than what he did last start but he was knocking on the door for a win prior and the fact that Seo Seung-un comes up to headquarters a day earlier to ride this horse and this horse only prior to riding in Sunday’s sprint feature, as well as sacrifice rides from Busan’s Friday meeting to do so, must be a good lead. (4) NAMSAN ROCK comes off a 24/1 win at this level over 1400M when coming from midfield. This is not much harder, and he had not been far away in his three of his four prior runs leading up to his last start victory. (1) ANYANG GIPPEUM has finished in the top five in thirteen of her twenty-two starts but in five of her last six she has not. However, the other run was a victory so if on song she can be in the finish from the favourable low draw over the Seoul mile course. (7) BEOLGYO D Y and HEART K (3) can be around the mark with (5) MY THERN next best.
Selections
(8) Jjarithan Haengbok (4) Namsan Rock (1) Anyang Gippeum (7) Beolgyo D Y
Next Best
3, 5
Fast Start
2, 5, 7, 8, 10
Seoul Race 9: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(3) PURGE STEP won up to two in a row at Class 4 level on Grand Prix Day and January 11 over 1700M before stepping up in grade to run in the LR Dong-a Ilbo Trophy where she was always out the back and was last to complete the course. This is easier and although it is harder than her previous two victories one grade below this, she should be up to the task. (8) GLORY CITY has been third and eighth in two runs at this level following a win one level below this over course and distance on January 3. He rates as a chance as does (2) DRAGON KILLER although he has been a beaten favourite in all his three runs at this class. (4) THEME TANSAENG led throughout to win over the course and distance at Class 4 last time and now comes up to this level for the first time. (10) KING DIA, (7) K N LIGHT and (6) SEGWANG FIGHTER are each-way chances.
Seoul Race 10: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(3) DI NE looked unstoppable when putting together a hat-trick of wins across October through to January going from Class 6 to Class 5 to Class 4 with the average winning margin across those three scores being twenty-one and three-quarter lengths. However, it has not been smooth sailing since with his trial run for the KRA Cup Mile (Korean 2000 Guineas) being too bad to be true before a slightly better effort, but still below what you would have hoped going on his best form, in the Guineas. He has been back in work for almost three weeks, and it will be interesting to see how he resumes over the sprint trip. (6) ROYAL SOCKS continues to progress and was a course and distance winner last start on April 12. He carries two-and-a-half kilograms more, but he can win again. (2) NAEGILUI WINNER is a consistent customer that will be doing his best work late whilst (2) RAON FLORENCE has never missed the top three and beat five reopposing rivals last time on April 19. (8) M J BEST is dropping right back in grade so is interesting with (10) REAL DEAL next best in what is the most interesting race of the day to close the card.
Selections
(3) Di Ne (6) Royal Socks (5) Naegilui Winner (2) Raon Florence
Sunday is the Korean Oaks at Busan. The second leg of the 2026 Triple Tiara series is race 6 on the 7-race card with a local post time of 16:05. Busan’s program runs from 11:25 to 17:00. There are also 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:
Fantastic Value won the Oaks last year (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(8) WORLD VICS has two 3rd places and a 5th from three starts so far, racing on pace each time, most recently on March 29th. She’ll be on pace here and this time, she has every chance of going one better. (5) CHAOS also has two 3rd place finishes, in her case in consecutive races, most recently when favourite on March 15th over this distance when she led for much of the way around. Jang Chu-youl gets off and on to World Vics, but CC is a more than adequate replacement and she too has winning claims. (4) POWER MAGIC has a 4th and a 5th in two starts so far, most recently behind World Vics on March 29th. He draws well to be handy and should be in the finish again. (9) YEONDONG STAR and (11) DONGBAEK other place chances.
Selections
(8) World Vics (5) Chaos (4) Power Magic (9) Yeondong Star
Next Best
11, 1
Fast Start
1, 2, 5, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) SUPERTRAMP has made steady progress across three starts so far with his best being his latest when 4th at 1300M on April 11th when slow away and running on. While that was the second time he has taken the long way home, he is nicely drawn and can give a little bit more here. (2) SMART MINK has raced fourteen times and has never finished any better than 5th. She did that last time though on April 11th over this distance when coming from a wide draw and beating a couple of today’s rivals. This is one of the shallower fields she has been in so should be aiming for a best to date result. (5) COSMO JJIN has a 2nd place to her name two starts back over 1200M and that’s enough to have her in the numbers here. It’s hard to make a case for any of the others, with perhaps (3) RISING WIND – who was 3rd back in January – and (7) VICAR DRAGON, the best of a limited rest.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(4) KING BLACK arrested a run of four consecutive 4th place finishes with a strong 2nd place at this distance on April 5th when handy throughout. He comes into a better gate today and he will be favoured to go one better. (7) WORLD TREE was 3rh in that April 5th race, having led for much of the way throughout. After a 4th place at his previous start, that confirmed that he is figuring things out and Seo Seung-un climbing on for the first time, means a few will fancy him to overturn the form on the favourite. (6) JEONGMUN SKIP has five top five finishes from seven starts and enters off a good 3rd when stepped up to this trip for the first time on April 19th. Like the other two, he races best on pace and can be in this a long way. (1) LOOKS GOOD and (3) SKYNEX the next bests.
Selections
(4) King Black (7) World Tree (6) Jeongmun Skip (1) Looks Good
Next Best
3, 5
Fast Start
1, 4, 7, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million
(8) SUPERDAY got his maiden win over 1300M in February and has held his form in two starts at this class with a 4th and most recently a 2nd place, again at 1300M, on April 5th when as usual, he raced handy to the speed. He comes up to 1400M for the first time, but it can suit and he will be a short price to score. (10) TOUR FELIX is yet to win in six attempts but comes up in class here following three placings, most recently a 3rd on his first try at this distance on April 4th. The class rise means a 4.5kg weight drop and that should be enough to make him competitive in this company. (9) SEUNGNI BAROWS had a hard time from an even wider gate last time out but going on his runner-up finish at this class and distance two starts back, warrants another chance here. (6) STUNNING STEP and the down in class (2) HERO JEONSA others in the hunt.
Selections
(8) Superday (10) Tour Felix (9) Seungni Barows (6) Stunning Step
Next Best
2, 3
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 8
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million
(3) BABEL FOLGORE has a 4th and a 5th from two starts so far at 1200M and 1300M, both times racing on pace. Third-up she can be peaking fitness-wise and drawing much better today, she can get an easier run to the front. (6) AEGIS CHEONMA ran a good 3rd on debut over this distance on April 10th, racing just behind the speed and beating a couple of today’s rivals in a good time. He should have come on for that run, and he will be disputing favourite status here. (10) GREAT LUCKY raced three times last year and was a much-improved 2nd in the last of those, all the way back in August. She ran well in an April trial and has every chance of a bold-showing first-up in this company. Among the three debut-makers, (1) KANGCHEOL YEONGMA was the best in trials and can be a minor money chance first up. (11) RANI, 6th on debut, can improve.
Horse Racing in Korea 