Seoul

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 8)

The viral superstar Lala K returns to the track as the Juvenile Series kicks off with the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon (live on the KRBC International YouTube channel). Busan also hosts its opening leg of the Juvenile Series with the Areumdaun Jilju Stakes. See here fore a preview of both races. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 17:00, Here is the race-by-race:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all but one having raced before. (4) HERE I AM will start the hot favourite having improved to 2nd place in a quick time at start number two on September 3rd when racing handy throughout. He draws well here and should prove too strong. (10) HWASANGWIHWA similarly improved last time out at what for him was start three in which he raced around in 2nd position all the way. The time was good, and a repeat will put him in the finish again. (9) SMART CLAIR has run fairly across three starts so far. She has been a touch one-paced but if he can settle midfield, he should pass a few late to take some money. (7) BAEDARI HYANGGI and (5) SMART CAT others in the minor money frame.

Selections(4) Here I Am (10) Hwasangwihwa (9) Smart Clair (7) Baedari Hyanggi
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Two standouts here. (10) GRAND SILVER gets the nod with steady improvement in recent outings culminating in a runner-up finish at this distance on September 10th when handy all the way. He won’t need to improve much here to win this. (1) HEUIMANGUI CHANGA came from off the pace to run an improved 3rd over 1300M on September 17th. He has looked like he may appreciate a touch further and today he gets the chance to show it and is the main danger. (7) HEY MAMA beat Grand Silver two starts back and then beat three of the others who go here when repeating that finish on September 2nd over this distance. She’ll be on pace here and should be there or thereabouts again. (11) GEOMOON and (2) SANGIM DAEPYO among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(10) Grand Silver (1) Heuimangui Changa (7) Hey Mama (11) Geomoon
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener on the south coast with all but two having raced before and it’s a tricky puzzle. As a result, we’ll take a chance on the solitary first timer. That’s (2) WORLD DRAGON who looked good when making all to cross the line first by a big margin in a decent time in a late-August trial. He draws nicely to lead on debut and can put in a bold first up showing. (7) BLACK SPRING ran 2nd in a quick time over 1000M on debut in July before finishing last in the Rookie Stakes on August 27th. His time wasn’t bad though and coming back into more amenable company, he can be given another chance. (3) BEOLMAUI MONSTER came from off the pace to run 2nd over 1000M on debut on September 1st. He was well beaten by a good winner, but he should have benefitted from the experience and the extra furlong can suit. (9) STRIDING MAN and (5) MACH MAN among plenty of others with the possibility of improvement.

Selections(2) World Dragon (7) Black Spring (3) Beolmaui Monster (9) Striding Man
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

Having won a trial, (4) BRAVO PLAY was sent off as favourite on debut over 1000M on August 19th. He raced handy throughout, briefly touching the front in the straight but ultimately finished a close 3rd. He should have derived benefit from that experience and with some natural improvement, he looks the one to beat here. Both (5) GEOLJAK ONE and (2) MAGIC STRONG had poor days at the office when they came home 8th and 9th respectively when racing one another over this distance on August 27th. Both had shown ability prior, especially Geoljak One, who has a 2nd and a 3rd among four starts and the pair look to be the biggest dangers here. (6) STORM GUY did nothing on debut but has since been back to trial and looked well so could improve. (8) HAMPYEONG JANGMI another in the minor money frame.

Selections(4) Bravo Play (5) Geoljak One (2) Magic Strong (6) Storm Guy
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

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

(3) GOOD DADDY was unfancied on debut over 1200M and having come out of the widest gate, it looked as though that pessimism was justified as he sat at the back of the twelve-runner field and did little. Then came the closing stages where he made up excellent ground and finished 5th. He should improve for the run and the early step up to a mile could be very much in his favour in this very weak maiden. (4) COLONEL FLYING ran 2nd in August and then beat plenty of these when 3rd over 1400M on September 10th. We’ll need to draw a line through his latest on September 24th, but his prior form was superior to the rest here and he can be given another chance. He’s not alone in needing forgiveness for his most recent outing. (2) SINHAN GAMBLE was well back in the same race but his 5th at the start before is enough to make him a money chance here. Likewise (7) ROCKS and (8) TOMYRIS have had minor money finishes and could repeat.

Selections(3) Good Daddy (4) Colonel Flying (2) Sinhan Gamble (7) Rocks
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

Competitive race. (4) V QUEEN enters with recent form reading well with a 4th and a 3rd from her latest two, most recently at class and distance on September 10th when she settled right back and ran on well. She draws nicely here, she remains lightly weighted, and she has as good a chance as any. She has though won just one from thirty-three. (1) MR QUALITY may be yet to win at all, but he has proved competitive at this class in his latest two. He likes to get on pace and from a good draw he can lead and be in this a long way. (6) FINE DAY is another maiden but comes up in class here after too many near-misses at class 6. She comes down in weight and should be prominent here. (2) GEOSEN CHAMP and (8) BEST SUNSHINE among other placing chances.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 7)

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

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all twelve racing for the first time so it’s to the trail videos that we head. Conveniently, three of them went through the same trial and even more conveniently, one caught the eye. (10) STARTER stalked the leader before breezing by in the straight and easing away under a hold in a quick time. If she brings that form to the races, she will win. (6) GLOBAL CODIE led his heat a long way ultimately crossing the line in 2nd. He draws centrally and should be on pace again and in this a long way. (5) CUPID MORNING was 3rd in the same heat with Starter, albeit almost nine-lengths in arrears. Nevertheless, it wasn’t a bad trial, and he looks a placing chance here. (3) SPARK THUNDER stumbled at the start of heat, giving himself plenty to do, but he finished off well enough to suggest that with a clean getaway, he can make an impression. (2) BOLLIN another to keep safe.

Selections(10) Starter (6) Global Codie (5) Cupid Morning (3) Spark Thunder
Next Best2, 12
Fast Start4, 6, 10, 12

Seoul Race 2:  Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

The second division of the juvenile maiden and again all twelve race for the first time. (7) GIANT M went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them (it was a voluntary trial so be aware it may not feature in all race cards), running handy and crossing the line 1st, stopping the clock in 1:02.3 on September 8th. That’s the quickest time any of these posted and he looks a good chance first-up. (10) WORLD SHANNONS was also a trial winner, beginning well and sitting on pace and responding well when asked for an effort. Moon Se-young’s presence will tempt plenty. (9) ROYAL BEST and (2) FLYING KING came home 2nd and 3rd respectively in their heat in fair times and both can be considered here. (5) FRESH MAN another who hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Giant M (10) World Shannons (9) Royal Best (2) Flying King
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

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

Juvenile maidens although this time all nine have raced before although only four at his distance. One of those is (4) SINUI UNMYEONG who was a much-improved 4th when stepped up to this trip on September 3rd, sitting close throughout and beating a couple of today’s rivals in a decent time. He should have benefitted from that experience and has every chance today. (2) MORNING BOLD’s three starts have all come at 1000M, but he has set very consistent times and has a 2nd and a 3rd on his record. That means any top-three finish will give him a rating and from a nice draw, it could well be a win. (6) CHAMJOEUN INYEON too steps up in distance for the first time following a 4th and a 6th in good times over 1000M. She should be in the mix here. (1) STORM BREAKER and (9) FINAL GO others with the potential to improve.  

Selections(4) Sinui Unmyeong (2) Morning Bold (6) Chamjoeun Inyeon (1) Storm Breaker
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A standard maiden here and a couple look ready to win. (8) RAON AIR FORCE did nothing in his first few starts but has significantly improved in his latest two, posting a 3rd and a 2nd, both at this trop and both times racing on pace. He can be on the speed here and can go one better. (10) POWERFUL VISION has improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place finish over 1300M on August 18th when she led for much of the way around. She may need a touch of luck at the start from the wide gate, but if she can get forward again, she has claims. (7) SAEBYEOK BULBIT has five top-four finishes from seven prior outings, generally sitting behind the pace or in midfield and running on. She can be close her too. (6) WINNER DRAGON and (5) TAPYEONGMU others to keep safe.

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Jeju Governor’s Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 24)

The Queens’ Tour is back for the opening leg of its Fall & Winter series as the Jeju Governor’s Cup comes to Seoul on Sunday afternoon. The race will pick the three-year-old Triple Tiara winner Jeulgeounyeojeong against older fillies and mares, including Raon First and Raon The Spurt. See here for a full preview of the big race. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong will return to the scene of her Triple Tiara final leg win (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with four of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll side with the only one who has raced twice before, (6) GOLDEN DRAGON. Having run 6th on debut, he was an improved 2nd at start number two over 1200M on August 19th, when settling midfield and running on. He won’t need to improve much to win this. (8) CHADOL DIA was a close 2nd when racing on pace on her August debut over 1000M. She should be on the speed again here and strip fitter for the run. Among the first timers, the clear pick is (2) MEGA DRAGON. He first trialled in April but didn’t make it to the races, but he looked very good in another hear on September 8th, settling back and then working through the line well in a good time. The 1200M should suit first-up and a bold showing is likely. (1) VICAR NAREUMA hinted at ability in his trial and along with (3) EUNPA PARTNER, rates as a place chance.

Selections(6) Golden Dragon (8) Chadol Dia (2) Mega Dragon (1) Vicar Nareuma
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens and (1) USEUNG CONCORD will be a warm favourite here. After a positive trial, he ran 3rd on debut on August 26th, having raced handy throughout. He should strip fitter for that, and the additional furlong can suit. (2) SEIRENE has raced twice, improving to 2nd in the latest of them on August 20th when settling back and running on. The time wasn’t quick, but she should have benefitted from the 1200M experience, and she shapes as the main danger. (11) BLOOD MOUNTAIN and (4) THUNDER YEOGEOL both ran 6th on their respective debuts, the former behind Useung Concord. Both can get closer today. There are three debut makers among whom (9) STAR TREK looks best placed to make an immediate impact.

Selections(1) Useung Concord (2) Seirene (11) Blood Mountain (4) Thunder Yeogeol
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

August’s Rookie Stakes was too much too soon for (6) CHEONHAENGCHAT, but he returns to shallower waters today with solid claims. That’s based on his runner-up finish two starts back over this distance when close to the pace throughout and a similar performance in this company can see him home on top. (2) SEOUL DOLPUNG looks the main danger. After an indifferent debut, he has run 3rd and 4th in two subsequent appearances at this distance and at 1000M both times settling back and running on. He can continue to make progress here. Solitary debut-maker (8) GROUPER looked well in a trial back in June. It’s three months later but in this modest company he has to be given a chance first-up. (9) YONGBICHEON beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place at this distance on August 26th and can go close again. (12) MENI WIN another in the hunt.  

Selections(6) Cheonhaengchat (2) Seoul Dolpung (8) Grouper (9) Yongbicheon
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start3, 6, 11, 12

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (8) WORLD FIRST CAT ran 3rd on debut over 1000M in July and then 2nd on her first try at this distance on August 20th when settling midfield and running on and only going down by a narrow margin. She should be on or close to the pace today and she can exit class 3 with a win. (9) GANGSEO BULPAE was sent off as favourite on debut having won a trial and while she was beaten into 2nd place, she ran well, leading for much of the way around. She should have derived benefit from that experience and is the main danger here. Those two in either order will fill out most quinellas. (7) TOMYRIS put in an improved performance over 1400M last time out and looks the best of the rest, while (3) THE BIG SHOT and (4) SANGIM STAR are other potential improvers.

Selections(8) World First Cat (9) Gangseo Bulpae (7) Tomyris (3) The Big Shot
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(7) GEOMUI JEONSEOL enters off a solid 3rd place at this distance on August 27th when ridden handy throughout. In the process he recorded the quickest time any of these have managed for the distance and in this modest company, he can make his breakthrough. (10) HAPPY PLAY beat a couple of these, including Geomui Jeonseol, on her way to 3rd place over this distance last time out. That was all the way back in June so she comes in following a thirteen-week layoff, but she can be a danger. (8) POWER ETCHED registered his best finish to date when 2nd at 1400M on September 2nd and a repeat of that performance would put him very much in the mix today. (3) SWITCH SONG and (6) QUEEN TOP the best of a limited rest.

Selections(7) Geomui Jeonseol (10) Happy Play (8) Power Etched (3) Switch Song
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 10

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

(2) THE BEST EVER comes in after a 2nd and a 3rd in his latest two, both at 1400M. He comes up to the mile for the first time, he draws well, and he can come out on top today. (11) GRAY BOSS ran 4th to The Best Ever’s 3rd when they raced each other at 1400M on August 27th coming out of the same wide gate that he draws today. He settled right back but showed a nice turn of foot at the end – he has by far the fastest final furlong average time of all of these – and the additional furlong here could well be in his favour. (1) COLONEL FLYING enters in consistent form with a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two. He is another with a strong finish who should be challenging late. (4) SHINE MONSTER and (9) I’M KING IJI among others with at least placing chances.

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

Saturday’s action is at Seoul with a 12-race card from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

2019 Korea Cup and Grand Prix winner Moonhak Chief has been retired (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile fillies in the opener and all twelve are racing for the first time so we must head to the trial videos. The fastest time was set by (8) SAMAEBEONJJEOK. She only finished in 6th of ten, but she broke well, showed on pace, and was given a very easy time of it with her jockey not asking a question. She can lead here and can win (1) GOLDBERG sat midfield in her heat before easing away from her opposition in the straight. She looked assured, stopped the clock in a fair time and has every chance of going well first-up. (9) DREAM TIME is another who can be on pace. She ran on well in her heat and is another to keep safe. (4) PUNGUNJIMA had an injury issue after her July trial in which she impressed. She has been back in work since the start of this month and Moon Se-young aboard catches the eye. (12) WHIZ LOVER went through two trials improving in the second of them and is another possible.

Selections(8) Samaebeonjjeok (1) Goldberg (9) Dream Time (4) Pungunjima
Next Best12, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

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

Imported juveniles here with nine of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with the experience though and (6) HERO FIGHTER has raced twice, running 4th on debut in July before making all to win in a quick time over 1000M on August 5th, He comes up in trip but should be just a bit more forward in his development than the rest here and will take some beating. The other experienced one is (8) WORLD VARIANCE. He was slowly away on debut over 1000M in July but finished off very well and the step up in trop can suit. Of the first timers, (2) WHIZ RUNNER has been through two trials, improving in the second of them (which may not appear on all race cards because it wasn’t a mandatory trial) and stopping the clock in a time faster than any of the other debutants have. If he brings that form to the races, he can go close. (11) THUNDER DREAM won his trial in a quick time and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, warrants respect. (7) JEONGSANG ACE another who hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(6) Hero Fighter (8) World Variance (2) Whiz Runner (11) Thunder Dream
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 9

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

(11) BAEDARI KWAEGEOM shapes as the best here. After a ropey start she has shown she is figuring things out with a 4th and a 2nd from her latest two, both at this distance and both times racing on pace. She has the challenge of a wide draw here but should be equal to it. (3) MULLEBANGA has finished 6th in all three of his starts so far but at his latest on August 27th, his first at this distance, he showed on pace and wasn’t far away from the placings. He comes into a much better gate today and should be aiming to improve. (8) TAEPYEONG HERO has been 3rd in both his appearances at 1000M and 1200M. In this company, he is another who will be expected to be on or close to the pace and can match or better those 3rds. (5) PURPLE SHINHWA and (10) SUPER ONE among others in the frame.

Selections(11) Baedari Kwaegeom (3) Mullebanga (8) Taepyeong Hero (5) Purple Shinhwa
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 11

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

(10) BLUE INDY will be a warm favourite. He has just the one win but has finished between 3rd and 5th in no fewer than eleven occasions including his latest six. He has the fastest time of any of these for the distance by a considerable margin and a repeat of his recent showing should be enough to get him across the line on top here. (5) RED TAEPUNG comes up in class having won at this distance on August 26th when on pace throughout. The time wasn’t quick, but he comes down in the weights, draws well, and can measure up. (9) EXPECT didn’t measure up on his first try at this class over a mile in August. He comes back in trip, Franco climbs on and he can be given another chance today. (11) LUXURY KING and (3) GHANA DREAM the other placing chances.

Selections(10) Blue Indy (5) Red Taepung (9) Expect (11) Luxury King
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 10

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

(8) DAEHEUNG CLASS remains a maiden but comes in foo a strong of near misses including runner-up finishes in his latest two, both at this class and distance. He settles midfield and runs on and today, he may pass them all. Should he find one too quick yet again, it could be (6) FLYING ZEST. He comes up in class having secured his maiden win at this trip, coming from off the pace, on August 27th. This isn’t a strong race for the level, and he will probably be ridden closer and should be very competitive. Furkan Yuksel was in fine form last weekend and in (11) HEALING HAVEN he looks to have if not a winning chance, then certainly a placing one. The filly has the fastest time among these for the distance and is in softer company than recent starts. (1) HWIPARAM and (2) AKKAENGI others in the minor money hunt.

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

There are Sunday cards at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and at Busan (6) races from 11:50 to 16:35). The highlight is the Listed Ilgan Sports Trophy at Seoul over 1800M, which features several of the capital’s better three-year-olds taking on older horses. Here are the previews:

It’s unlikely any of the Ilgan Sports Trophy contenders will complete the 1800M as quick as Crown Pride did last week (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with seven of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll put experience on top though and (4) GEOLJAK SKY, who debuted on August 12th, running 4th of eleven over 1000M (that race’s winner, Blue Lemon is scheduled to have been in action on Saturday). She should have derived benefit from the experience and with some natural improvement, is the one to beat. (2) RAON TIMOTH won his trial in good order settling handy and going clear, beating a couple of today’s rivals in a fair time. He’ll probably start as favourite. (9) SAHARAMOND trialled up 2nd behind Raon Timoth, two-and-a-half lengths in arrears but showed enough to suggest he can go well first-up. (3) MIGHTY CAP was just a neck behind in 4th and she too can be considered. Returning to the experienced ones, (5) ILINX has raced twice, improving in his second outing, and can continue to make progress here.

Selections(4) Geoljak Sky (2) Raon Timoth (9) Sharamond (3) Mighty Cap
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

Maiden fillies and a couple of standouts. (4) HAENGBOK YEOWANG has raced eleven times without breaking through but enters with her recent form reading well including a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at this distance. Her times haven’t been quick, but she might not need to be too quick here and from a good gate, can sit off the speed and then grind away in the straight. The main danger is (10) ARCH CLASS. She has raced just twice, improving to 2nd in the most recent on August 26th when handy throughout. She may have more potential for improvement than Haengbok Yeowang and while she has to contend with the wide draw, can go one better. (2) RAON SPIKE raced twice last year, finishing 3rd on debut. She returns here after forty-nine weeks out, but trialled fairly last month and this is a nice first-up assignment. (1) YEJIMONG and (9) MO CHUISLE others in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Haengbok Yeowang (10) Arch Class (2) Raon Spike (1) Yejimong
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 10

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

(1) HAENGUN BARAM has hinted at ability across five starts to date. Her best was a runner-up finished back in April, but she comes in following a useful 4th place at 1300M on August 27th when, as is her style, she went right back, before running on. The step up to 1400M can suit, and she has as good a chance as any here. (2) SAVANA CHARLIE is the main danger. He is yet to finish in the top-two but has been in the top-five on nine out of ten starts (including a remarkable seven 4th place finishes). From a good draw, he should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (8) SAEROUN BITKKAL beat Savana Charlie as the pair ran 2nd and (where else?) 4th at this distance on August 20th. He can go close again. (6) FIRST CHOUX and (7) HEART SIGNAL others in the placing hunt.

Selections(1) Haengun Baram (2) Savana Charlie (8) Saeroun Bitkkal (6) First Choux
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(9) WITH STAR comes in having run 3rd and 4th in her latest two at 1400M and a mile, beating a few of these in the process. She can settle behind the speed here and should prove too strong at the business end of the race. (4) WISE BOY returns to action for the first time since March. He has a runner-up finish to his name over this distance and looked well when leading an August trial, ultimately finishing 2nd in a quick time. He will need this but can be close first-up. (8) FLYING AARON was 6th to With Star’s 4th when they raced one another at a mile on August 25th. Franco climbs on here and he can go closer. (3) LUCKY BRAND and (2) AQUARIUS are among plenty of others with minor money claims.

Selections(9) With Star (4) Wise Boy (8) Flying Aaron (3) Lucky Brand
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) THEME TANSAENG has steadily improved across six starts so far culminating in a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two over 1200M and 1400M. In those two, he has raced on or close to the pace and similar tactics can be expected here. He is the one to beat. (11) BANFF has shown promise across five starts so far with the best being a runner-up finish over 1200M in March. He has consistently posted good times at the shorter distance and has a smart finish on him so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can challenge late. (1) BRIGHT WINNER has two 4th places among four outings. She draws nicely here and will probably be on the early pace with prospects to stay in it a long way. (4) GREEN BULPAE and (10) GEOMOON among others with placing chances.

Selections(5) Theme Tansaeng (11) Banff (1) Bright Winner (4) Green Bulpae
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 11

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

Fillies only in this maiden and it’s hard to go past (1) POCKET MILLION. She ran 4th on debut in July over 1000M and then followed up by beating some of these on her way to 3rd place over 1200M on August 20th. She raced on pace both times so draws very nicely to get the lead again and she will take some beating. (9) QUEEN AND SERVE will be the second pick for most. She ran 3rd at start number two before finishing 4th behind Pocket Million in that August 20th race. She was only a head in arrears so while she draws wide and Pocket Million appears to have more potential for immediate improvement, she can be taken seriously. (2) DAY BY DAY has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest couple and can go close. (4) YONGBI KHAN and (3) FIRST MENI the other minor money hopes.

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

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

It’s a week since Remake won the Korea Sprint (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time with the remaining seven having appeared once each. We’ll side with experience and (5) SPEED ONE was sent off as favourite over this distance on August 18th but was slowly away before rallying well for 2nd. With a better start he can go one better today. (7) GEUMSE raced on pace throughout his own debut on August 26th, leading until the closing stages when he was overhauled and had to settle for 2nd. It was a quick time, and he should be on pace again here with every chance of winning. The pick of the first timers is (9) UMAPOY. He sat handy in his trial, finishing off well to cross the line 1st in a good time. If he brings that form to the races, he should have a big say first-up. (8) IRISH MAN and (2) MYUNGJINBULLPAI others who hinted at ability in their trials.

Selections(5) Speed One (7) Geumse (9) Umapoy (8) Irish Man
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens and while the field is small, it’s competitive. (3) VINCERO CAVALLO ran 5th on debut over 1000M in June before stepping up to this trip on August 5th and running an on-pace 2nd in a good time. He draws nicely to be on pace again and he won’t need to improve much to win here. (5) LUCKY PARTY was a solid 3rd in debut over 1000M on August 26th, settling midfield and running on pleasingly. The step up in trip can suit and he should have benefited from the experience. (2) NAEGILUI WINNER ran 5th behind Lucky Party in that August 26th race. He had previously run 2nd on debut and steps up to 1200M for the first time with Moon Se-young staying aboard. (1) PURGE KING and (8) YEONGWON GIANT others with the potential to improve.

Selections(3) Vincero Cavallo (5) Lucky Party (2) Naegilui Winner (1) Purge King
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens and once more, all have raced either once or twice before. (6) DOKKI DRAGON beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place on debut on August 13th when overcoming gate eleven to race handy. The step up in trip can suit and he shape as the one to beat. Plenty of the others have shown ability though. (1) MIRAE TOWER has finished 4th in both his starts so far, both at 1000M and both times running on well and most recently in that August 13th race behind Dokki Dragon. Furkan gets the ride today and he should thrive with the additional trip. After two less than impressive trials (3) GEOLJAK EUTTEUM was totally unfancied on debut but ran a fair 5th of eleven. The presence of Moon Se-young will ensure he has plenty of backers. (4) NAEGILUI LEADER, who debuted over this trip, and (8) KNIGHT CHARM, another who comes out of the August 13th race, are others in the frame.

Selections(6) Dokki Dragon (1) Mirae Tower (3) Geoljak Eutteum (4) Naegilui Leader
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

After running 5th on debut, (4) WINNER JERIN was an improved 2nd over this distance on August 6th racing on pace, albeit well beaten by a good winner. He draws very nicely to get to the lead again here and this time, he can go all the way. (6) SEOUL CHOEGANGJA has hinted at ability across three starts so far which have included two 4th place finishes. He steps up to further than 1000M for the first time and given that he has finished off two of his three races well, it may suit. (7) DAONDI comes in off a good 3rd place over 1300M on August 19th when settling back and running on and should be in the mix again here. (2) HAEJE YEOGEOL and (9) MUNHAK CENTRAL are other placing chances.

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Korea Cup & Sprint Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 10)

It’s Korea Cup and Korea Sprint Day. The big features are races 7 and 8 on a 10-race card at Seoul which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 11:50 to 17:00. Here are the previews:

Eoma Eoma will attempt to defend the Korea Sprint (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the ten racing for the first time. The exposed form isn’t great, so we’ll side with first timers. (4) SPALTA was much improved in the second of two trials, crossing the line in front having led all the way. The time wasn’t quick, but he did what he needed to and if he brings that form to the races, he has an excellent chance first-up. It’s a similar story with (7) DANCING GANGJA, who failed to qualify first time around but led all the way at his second attempt. He too didn’t post a fast time but won’t need to improve much to be competitive here. (10) HAMPYEONG JANGMI has raced twice, finishing 7th on both occasions. They were both at 1000M and he can improve third-up here. (8) GEUMAK STAR and (1) LADY CODI others with potential to get better.

Selections(4) Spalta (7) Dancing Gangja (10) Hampyeong Jangmi (8) Geumak Star
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies. (8) SPECIAL FORCE will be a hot favourite, having only gone down narrowly on debut in a quick race over 1000M on August 12th when she was handy throughout. She previously made all in a trial and the step up in trip can suit. She is favoured to lead all the way this time. (6) ANYANG CHEONDUNG only really started to run on when the race was gone on debut over 1000M on August 13th. She should have come on for the run and may appreciate and extra furlong to get stuck into. (4) LOVE MUNMAK trialled up behind Special Force and then debuted behind Special Force, running 7th of eleven on August 12th. She began slowly but did find some late speed and with some more maturity and an additional furlong, she may go better. (5) HAPPY ICTUS and (3) WONDERFUL PAGO others who may improve.

Selections(8) Special Force (6) Anyang Cheondung (4) Love Munmak (5) Happy Ictus
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

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

Wide open maiden. (3) COLITAS has mixed his form across six starts so far. He has a bit of a tendency to get too far back in his races, but he does run on. He draws well here and if Kim Yong-geun can have him in contention at the top of the straight, he has as much chance as any. (1) DINSI CHAMP and (8) EFFEL TAP came home 2nd and 4th respectively when they raced one another at this distance on August 12th. For Dinsi Champ that was a sharp improvement while Effel Tap is generally consistent, and both should be among the main chances here. (10) SHARP SUNSHINE is another who is unspectacular but consistent. She steps up to 1400M for the first time and can run into some money. (4) GRAND SILVER among others in the frame.

Selections(3) Colitas (1) Dinsi Champ (8) Effel Tap (10) Sharp Sunshine
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 11

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

Two standouts in this maiden. (6) SKY JILJU will probably be favourite. He has raced twice so far, both at 1000M, improving in the second of them in terms of both time and finishing position. Both times he did his best work late suggesting that the step up in trip can suit. (5) MADE HEEMANG has also raced twice but in his case, over this distance. He too improved in the second of them, running 3rd and why Sky Jilju may have a little more potential for improvement at this stage, he can be a danger again. What form there is, drops off after this two but (4) LIGHT BROWN ran well enough on debut behind Sky Jilju over 1000M. She was slow away but ran on well and there could be some progress in the tank. (7) GREAT INDY and (9) DREAM BIGGER others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(6) Sky Jilju (5) Made Heemang (4) Light Brown (7) Great Indy
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

Competitive race. (8) FLYING LIGHT is a form-mixer but based on his latest, when a strong 2nd at class and distance on July 23rd having overcome gate ten to settle midfield and run on well, he must be given a very good chance here. He can sit behind the speed again and run on. (4) SILVER BOOSTER beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place at this class over 1300M on August 12th. He comes up slightly in the weights, but draws well, and can be considered again. (10) GEUMSEONG SIDAE is yet to win in eleven starts but has finished in the top-four on no fewer than eight occasions including an on-pace 2nd over a mile last time out. He has the challenge of the widest gate here but with a little luck at the start can get to the front and should be in this a very long way. (1) STAR RUSH and (3) ARGO GONGJU among others in the hunt.

Selections(8) Flying Light (4) Silver Booster (10) Geumseong Sidae (1) Star Rush
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) COLONEL FLYING shapes as a warm favourite here. That’s based on his latest effort on August 20th when he came from well off the pace to run a very close 2nd at this distance, in the process recording a quicker time than any of the others here have done for the 1400M. He draws well and in this modest company, can win. (6) EONJENA YEONGUNG mixes his form, but he has also posted a quick time for the distance and with an apprentice claiming 3kg, he can go close today. (8) UNMATCHED was slow away last time before running 6th behind Colonel Flying. There is little in the way of early speed here so if she can get a better start, she may be able to get on pace and if she does, she has a chance. (9) BLUE CAVIAR and (4) MIRACULUM the best of a limited rest.

Selections(3) Colonel Flying (6) Eonjena Yeongung (8) Unmatched (9) Blue Caviar
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

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

Tricky one. (7) BIG BLED may not have the most attractive of names for a racehorse (with the greatest respect to Slovenian lakeside resort towns) but she has shown ability. She was a good winner in a quick time at 1200M at class 6 level two starts back before finishing midfield on her first try at this level on July 23rd. She likes to sit on or close to the pace and she can win here. (4) BEST CLONE is yet to score in eight but has a 4th and a 2nd in two tries at this class, both at 1200M. She’ll be on the speed here and she steps up to 1300M looking set to be close again. (11) TANGJA has plenty of experience at this class and has been a model of consistency of late, positing quick times at this distance. While he has the challenge of the widest gate and he may once more find one or two too quick, he will be there or thereabouts again.  (1) V QUEEN and the up in class (5) SAEBYEOK ANGAE others in the hunt.

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Seoul Trophy Race Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 9)

Saturday is the eve of the Korea Cup and Korea Sprint and there are six trophy races on the 10-race card which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener, with three of the ten racing for the first time. Among those with experience, the standout is (9) EXCELLENT MATTA. Following a fair trial, he ran a solid 5th of eleven in a decent time over this distance on debut on August 12th when racing handy throughout. He should have come on for the run and with some natural improvement is the one to beat. A couple of the first timers have promise. (5) JERAQUEEN won her trial having led for much of the way. The time wasn’t fast, but she did everything she needed to do and if she brings that form to the races, she’ll go close. (4) MISS CONCORD showed handy in her heat and while a long way back behind the experienced trial winner, she held her own against the rest and can put in a bold first-up showing. Returning to the already tried ones, (6) HAKSAN MACHO and (8) BUNDANG TSUNAMI can improve from their respective debuts.

Selections(9) Excellent Matta (5) Jeraqueen (4) Miss Concord (6) Haksan Macho
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 9

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

(1) BOREUM DALBIT will be a warm favourite here. She’s run 4th and 3rd in two starts so far, most recently over this distance on August 12th when settling back and running on well having had to overcome gate eleven. From the inside gate this time, she should be much closer to the speed, Moon Se-young climbs on, and she will take some beating. (9) FINE DAY looks the only credible danger on form. She comes in off a close 3rd place on August 13th when getting up to sit on pace. In this relatively small field, she should have enough early speed to get to a forward position again and she should be in this a long way. (6) TIZ ROCKET mixes his form but going on his close 4th two starts back and given he gets a 4kg apprentice claim, he makes for a place chance here. (4) FEDERAL PRESS and (5) CHEONGPAUI KKUM others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Boreum Dalbit (9) Fine Day (6) Tiz Rocket (4) Federal Press
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class Open (1200M) Special Weight B / HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB TROPHY / KRW 150 Million

(3) RAON GIANT comes in off disappointing runs in first the Korean Derby and then the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup, the latter the 2000M final of the Triple Tiara. She was 4th in the Luna Stakes over a mile in April and comes back to a sprint trip for the first time in a while. She draws nicely to lead and in this shallower company the three-year-old, who still boasts a 50% win-rate, can return to winning ways. (12) COSMO is the main danger. She too came unstuck when tried in Graded Stakes company two starts back but was a super winner over this distance at class 2 level in April. She carries 5kg more than she did that day, and she has the challenge of the widest gate, but she should be in the frame here. Whenever (7) SOBERANIA gets off to a good start, she goes close, and she looks nicely in here. (1) ACHIM GISANG and (9) RAON THE ARIA, the latter up in class after an eye-catching win at 1400M last start, are among plenty of others with at least a placing chance.

Selections(3) Raon Giant (12) Cosmo (7) Soberania (1) Achim Gisang
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1400M) Special Weight B / MACAU JOCKEY CLUB TROPHY / KRW 150 Million

(3) RAON FOREST is only behind Triple Tiara winner Jeulgeounyeojeong in the three-year-old filly standings, having run 2nd in both the Luna Stakes and Korean Oaks and then 3rd in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup. The last time she raced at this distance, she won at it, back in March at class 4 level and down in weights and drawn very nicely, she is very much the one to beat. (7) TROTTING RILEY is ultra consistent and enters off a close 4th at class 2 level over 1200M on August 26th. He’s gone well at this distance too and should be on or close to the pace here and has a big chance of going close. (5) GLOBAL BOBAE has a 3rd and two 2nd place finishes, all over this distance since being promoted to class 2 (which is essentially the level of this race). He likes to settle back and run on, and he should be doing his best work late here. There is plenty of depth in terms of place chances with (2) QUICKLY RUN and (8) SURE WIN among them.

Selections(3) Raon Forest (7) Trotting Riley (5) Global Bobae (2) Quickly Run
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1200M) Special Weight B / GOLD CIRCLE TROPHY / KRW 150 Million

(4) RAON THE POINT is a perfect four for four and hasn’t been behind a horse at any point in his races so far. He has won up to class 1400M and class 4 level; this is the equivalent of class 3, and while he is set to face by far his sternest test so far and carries his fair share of weight, he can continue on his merry way today. (11) S.I. COCO has won four of his latest five, most recently at 1300M in a very quick time on August 5th. He has to contend with a wide draw, but he has overcome that before and he is a more than credible danger to Raon The Point’s record here. (8) SUPER FINISH is another on a streak having won his latest two at class 4 level, both over 1400M. He can race on pace or come from behind and he too can measure up in this company. Plenty more can enter the calculations with (10) SUN DRAGON and (5) YOUNGYOUNG SOCKS chief among those to be considered for at least the minors.

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

Both Seoul (11 races from 10:35) and Busan (6 races from 11:50 to 16:35) host Sunday cards. Here are the previews:

Speed Young was last year’s Champion Juvenile (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

A small field of juvenile maidens with all but one having raced before. (5) ORAEDAHAMKKE ran 4th on debut in June before improving to a close 2nd on August 6th when racing handy throughout. Both of those races were over 1000M and the step up can suit and he looks the one to beat. (7) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG and (6) LEGENDSUN came home 3rd and 4th respectively with little between them when they raced one another at this distance on August 5th. For Seongsil Yeongung it was an improved performance at start number two while Legendsun was making his debut. Both look set for further improvement and can go close here. The solitary debut maker (1) MAGIC PLEASURE won his trial and while it was a very slow time, he did what he needed to. He can go well first up. (2) SINUI UNMYEONG another who can improve from his debut.

Selections(5) Oraedahamkke (7) Seongsil Yeongung (6) Legendsun (1) Magic Pleasure
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(8) BUTTER K has made steady progress across four starts so far, including a close 3rd place at this distance last time out on August 6th. In the process, he recorded the fastest time of any of these for the distance, and today can be his day. (2) PURPLE SHINHWA was behind Butter K in that race on August 6th, but he does have a runner-up finish to his name over this distance. He goes best on pace so he draws very nicely, and Moon Se-young’s presence will encourage plenty. (5) ONE SPEAR ran a fair 3rd over this distance on August 20th. He tends to get quite far back in his races, but he should be competitive here. The form drops off precipitously after those three with (4) GEOMOON and (7) CATS WOMAN perhaps the most likely of the rest to improve.

Selections(8) Butter K (2) Purple Shinhwa (5) One Spear (4) Geomoon
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 6

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

Tricky maiden. (11) SSING SSING SSING enters having posted the fastest time among these for the distance when 4th on August 5th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. Third-up this preparation, he should be peaking fitness wise, and he can win. He does draw a touch wide though and that may open the door for (8) LUCKY HONEY. She was 5th in that August 5th race but that followed a 2nd and a 3rd in her previous two. She is another who will probably be a shorter price than she should be because of Moon Se-young being aboard, but she should go close. (1) WONPYEONG LIST was an improved 2nd at start number three on August 6th when racing on the pace for the first time. From a good draw, expect similar tactics today and she should be a big chance. (9) LAFEYETTE and (3) K N START the latter for whom it is a fresh start nine months after his debut, are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(11) Ssing Ssing Ssing (8) Lucky Honey (1) Wonpyeong List (9) Lafeyette
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start5, 7, 9, 11

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (8) PURE DANCE gets the nod following an encouraging debut on July 30th when after a slightly sluggish start, she ran on pleasingly for 5th over 1000M. Like all those here racing for the second time, she should have derived benefit from the experience and the extended trip should be in her favour. (10) MY MELODY also ran 5th on her debut at 1000M on July 23rd, in her case having jumped well and settled on the speed. She faces the challenge of the wide draw here but should be showing some development. (3) TODAY QUEEN was an improved 2nd at start number three over 1200M on July 29th. She raced on pace that day and will be expected to do similar here with another place a strong possibility. (4) B.K. ZENA and (7) PERFECT ACTION others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Pure Dance (10) My Melody (3) Today Queen (4) B.K. Zena
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 10

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

(3) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK remains a maiden following seven attempts, but he looks set to be a hot favourite here. He got promoted to this level with back-to-back runner-up finishes in June and July and then ran a close 3rd on his first try at class 5 on August 6th when always racing handily over this distance. He draws well here and should prove too good. (2) FLYING CARAVANE comes up in class following a maiden win on debut over 1000M on July 23rd when settling midfield and running on. He comes down in the weights and can be measuring up in this company. (8) DALMAJI was 3rd at this class over 1300M on July 1st. The same apprentice claims 4kg once more and he can be competitive. (5) MR QUALITY and (6) WONDERFUL JOY others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Sidaeui Myeongjak (2) Flying Caravane (8) Dalmaji (5) Mr Quality
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden. We’ll take a chance on (3) DOCTOR LEO. He debuted at 1300M on August 11th and having settled back, he ran on promisingly for 2nd. The time wasn’t quick, but he looks to have plenty of potential for development; he should strip fitter for the run and the experience, and he can go one better. (12) FLYING DIA unseated her jockey as the gates opened on a scheduled start on August 18th and made her own way home. That would have been her first race since March when 2nd at 1300M and she was well-fancied having performed well in a trial. She will be well-fancied here too. (8) FIRE MAGIC started to run on far too late on debut over 1200M on July 29th. He should be better for the experience and the additional trip can suit. (4) MOST RAPID and (9) HANEUL BULPAE among other placing chances.

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

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

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (2) MIRACLE HANGANG, who comes in here for the third time having run 2nd and 3rd in his first two appearances, both at this distance and both times leading. He draws very nicely to get to the lead here and he should exit what has been an extremely lucrative class 6 for his connections as a winner. Having won a trial, (9) RAON THE FANTA was sent off as favourite on debut over his distance on August 5th. She raced handily throughout and ran on for 3rd. She should have derived benefit from the experience and with some natural improvement can go closer here. (4) GOLDEN LINE has raced twice before and has posted decent times, especially when 3rd on debut. He was well beaten by Miracle Hangang last time out but should be in the placing mix here. Among the debut makers (5) WATZUI YEOWANG and (6) CUPID MIR look the best at this stage.

Selections(2) Miracle Hangang (9) Raon The Fanta (4) Golden Line (5) Waltzui Yeowang
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with seven of the eleven racing for the first time. (5) GEUMAK JINJU will be hot favourite. She ran a strong 3rd on debut on July 22nd over this distance having been handy throughout. She won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (11) SINUI YEOJE debuted in the same race, finishing 5th having been on pace for much of the way around. She too should have benefitted for the experience and with some natural improvement can get closer today. (3) CHOEGANG TIME looks the best of the debut-makers. He was on pace in his trial, crossing the line 3rd in a fair time. If he can bring that form to the races, he won’t be far away. (4) GANGCHEOL DRAGON and (7) CHAMJOEUN JILJU other first-timers who could make an impression.

Selections(5) Geumak Jinju (11) Sinui Yeoje (3) Choegang Time (4) Gangcheol Dragon
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

A maiden for imports (northern hemisphere two-year-olds and southern hemisphere three-year-olds) and seven of the eleven are racing for the first time. The favourite is one of those with experience and that’s (2) PANORAMA KING. Having won a trial, he was the market leader on debut over this distance on August 5th but came home 3rd. He should have come on for the run and should win this. (11) UWARYUNG has raced twice, finishing 2nd and 3rd coming off the pace both times. She should be there or thereabouts again. (3) LUCKY HANUL raced fairly for 5th in her debut in July and she too can be getting closer with some natural improvement. Among the debut-makers, (9) EOSEOMAREULHAE is the standout, having made all in a trial in a quick time on August 18th alongside some experienced racehorses (it was a voluntary trial so be aware it may not appear in all race cards). If he brings that form to the races, a win isn’t out of the question. (5) HERO LEGEND has been through three trials and seems to be getting the hang of things.

Selections(2) Panorama King (11) Uwaryung (3) Lucky Hanul (9) Eoseomareulhae
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A very modest maiden. We’ll need to draw a line through his latest but (1) KING GO TAEYANG is probably the one to beat here. Last time out he drew the widest gate and while he used up plenty to get to a forward position, he didn’t have much left over 1300M. He comes into a much better gate today and going on his 2nd place at this distance two starts back, he has every chance. (5) MUNHAK CENTRAL has picked up a bit in her latest couple of appearances. She has run fair times and shouldn’t be far away here. (12) NAOL ROONEY has finished 4th in all three of her outings so far. She may need a touch of luck from the widest gate but if she can get on or close to the speed, she should be in this a long way.  (4) MISTER STAR and (7) NEMO SPIRIT others in the placing frame.

Selections(1) King Go Taeyang (5) Munhak Central (12) Naol Rooney (4) Mister Star
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and it is wide open. (4) CLASS HEEMANG has raced just the twice and there was more than a year between them. She ran well on her return on August 6th, sitting at the back of the field from a wide draw before running on well for 4th. She should strip fitter for that run and Moon Se-young climbing on will tempt plenty. (7) VELVETY has shown steady improvement across four starts so far with a 4th and a 3rd from her latest two, most recently at this distance on August 6th when she settled midfield and ran on. She draws nicely today to sit on pace or handy and with a bit more progression, she can win. (5) WONDERFUL FOX has been very consistent with five finishes between 3rd and 5th. She likes to settle back and has a good finish on her, and she should be aiming for a career best placing here. (1) MENI CHARM and (3) MENI SHARK the other placing chances.

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