Seoul

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

The capital track hosts its first meeting of what will be a busy December on Saturday with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. The experience goes on top though in the shape of (10) GEUMAK DIA. After winning a trial, he ran a good 2nd on debut, well beaten by a strong winner but positing a decent time of his own over this distance. He’ll be on pace here and won’t need to improve much to win. (5) MAX GOLD also ran 2nd on debut over this distance on November 4th. It was a much slower time than that of Geumak Dia and a much slower race, but he should have come on for the run and can go close again. Turning to the first timers and (7) GANGNAMBULCHUNGGAK (half brother to this year’s Triple Tiara winner with an equally difficult name) went through two trials, winning one and running solid 2nd in the second when he came from off the pace and stopped the clock in a decent time. He can go well first-up. (9) BREEDO GIRL and (8) ENTROPY others who hinted at ability in their heats. 

Selections(10) Geumak Dia (5) Max Gold (7) Gangnambulchunggak (9) Breedo Girl
Next Best8, 12
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 10

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

(7) MAX MA has made steady progress across four starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place finish over this distance on October 29th when he overcame gate ten to lead for much of the way around. He draws better here, he should be on pace again, and he can go one better today. The main danger is (10) GOLDBERG. She’s raced on pace for a 3rd and a 4th in two appearances so far at 1000M and 1200M having previously won a trial. She too will be expected to get close to the lead early on and she can be in this a long way. It’s hard to go past those two for the quinella, but (1) WONDERFUL SPIRIT debuted fairly on November 5th, coming from off the pace to run 5th. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can go closer here. (9) BEST KINGDOM and (5) FEDERAL PRESS are other placing chances.

Selections(7) Max Ma (10) Goldberg (1) Wonderful Spirit (9) Best Kingdom
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start7, 8, 10, 11

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

(8) WALTZAUI YEOWANG will be a warm favourite here. She ran 3rd on debut over 1000M before improving to 2nd when stepped up to this distance on October 21st when she led until the closing stages. She can lead again here and this time she shouldn’t be caught. (2) NEMO SPIRIT comes off a narrow defeat over this distance on November 4th when coming from well off the pace and just failing to get across the line on top. It was a slow race, but she has gone quicker in the past and she can be a danger late on here. (4) JANGGUN MARU similarly comes in off an improved 2nd when racing handy at this trip on October 28th. He has made steady progress across three starts so far and can be in the mix here. Those three look to be head and shoulders above the rest, with (6) MARU STAR and (1) EUNPA JOY potentially others who could improve.

Selections(8) Waltzui Yeowang (2) Nemo Spirit (4) Janggun Maru (6) Maru Star
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Tricky maiden. (1) SLAM DRAGON has raced just the once, settling midfield and running on fairly for 4th over 1200M on November 19th. He should have come on for the run, the step up to 1400M can suit, and he has as good a chance as any. (11) HEART K has raced four times and comes in off his best finish to date when 3rd at 1200M on October 29th. A previous go at this distance didn’t go well but he could be ready for another crack and the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. (9) HEUNGHAENG BULPAE has finished off both prior starts well. Third-up he can be peaking fitness wise, and he is another who may appreciate the extended trip. (6) HEY MAMA and (2) WONDERFUL RULES others in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Slam Dragon (11) Heart K (9) Heunghaeng Bulpae (6) Hey Mama
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 10

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

(8) TAEPYEONG HERO is yet to win in four attempts but has finished no worse than 3rd with his latest runner-up finish being his first try at this class and distance on November 5th when he settled back and ran on well. He only comes up 1kg in the weights and he can make his breakthrough here. (9) SEIRENE too remains a maiden after four tries. She comes up in class here following a good 2nd place over 1200M on October 28th when settling just behind the speed and running on. She is nicely weighted, and the additional furlong may well suit. (4) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG and (3) AUSTIN LEADER both come up in class and in distance having scored their respective maiden wins over 1200M on their latest appearances. Both can measure up in this company. (2) GLOBAL JINGYEOK another to keep safe.

Selections(8) Taepyeong Hero (9) Seirene (4) Seongsil Yeongung (3) Austin Leader
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 10
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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 26)

No Graded or Listed races this Sunday but still plenty to get stuck into with 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here are the previews:

Late autumn at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all but one having raced at least once before. (8) YONGAM MARENGO has the fastest time among these for the distance, recorded when 3rd on October 29th when coming from well off the pace and he shapes to be a hot favourite. (10) BLACK BELT dead-heated for 3rd place on debut over 1000M in July before following up with a standalone 3rd at this distance on October 28th when coming from well off the pace. He has proven able to finish off his races well so the wide draw isn’t a problem, and he can be a danger. (12) LUCKY PARTY has raced three times and has never been worse than 4th. He was sent off as favourite on his latest over 1300M on October 22nd, leading for most of the way before ultimately coming home 3rd. He has the challenge of the widest gate here but could well be market leader again (2) GALSAEK DOJEONJA and (1) CHEONHAENGCHAT others in the frame.

Selections(8) Yongam Marengo (10) Black Belt (12) Lucky Party (2) Galsaek Dojeonja
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 11, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens. (4) STUNNING SKY wasn’t fancied at all on debut, but nobody told him that as he pulled off a very solid runner-up finish over this distance having sat handy and then briefly led in the straight stopping the clock in a time for the distance faster than any of the others here have managed. He should have come on for the run and he can go one better today. (5) CHEONGRYANGSAN ran 3rd on debut before following up with a 2nd place at start number two over this distance three weeks ago when racing handy throughout. He should be on pace here and is a big danger. (11) DONGJIN TEUKGEUP has shown progress across three starts so far, culminating with a 3rd place at this trip on October 22nd. He came off the pace to secure that so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can be doing his best work late again. (1) SEONGSIN CHEONHA and (2) ROYAL BEST didn’t disgrace themselves on their respective debuts and can improve second-up.

Selections(4) Stunning Sky (5) Cheongryangsan (11) Dongjin Teukgeup (1) Seongsin Cheonha
Next Best2, 12
Fast Start2, 5, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Decent maiden. (9) SEOUL CHOEGANGJA has made steady progress across five starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over this distance on October 22nd when on pace throughout and setting a time faster than any of the others here who have tackled the distance before have achieved. He should be on the early speed again, and this time can go one better. (4) BRIGHT WINNER was a much-improved 2nd at start number six over this distance on October 28th, settling just behind the speed and running on well. He draws nicely for Jo In-kwon to be able to pick his spot, probably behind the speed again, and he can run on and threaten. (5) TAENGGEURI was 4th behind Bright Winner in that October 28th race, his best finish so far. He can settle back and run on here and can go even closer. (8) SHOUT KURO and (3) WONDERFUL WELLS among others in the hunt for the minors.

Selections(9) Seoul Choegangja (4) Bright Winner (5) Taenggeuri (8) Shout Kuro
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with one of those first-timers and (11) DRAGON PUNCH. He trialled up very well, settling behind the speed and running on well. He was nine-lengths behind Korea Sprint runner-up Beolmaui Star but there is nothing wrong with that and he had plenty in hand on the rest. Handily, the three with prior experience debuted together over this distance on October 20th. (2) RAINBOW ROAD was the best of them, coming home in 2nd place having settled midfield and run on, but he was only a head in front of (3) SAMAKUI KKOT, who came from well back for 3rd. It may be hard to split them again. Only another head behind Samakui Kkot was (1) TROUBLEMAKER, who defied big odds to run a strong 4th. All should have benefited from the racing experience. Returning to the first timers (8) SKY ROAD came through the same trial as Dragon Punch and didn’t do much wrong positing a similarly quick time.

Selections(11) Dragon Punch (2) Rainbow Road (3) Samakui Kkot (1) Troublemaker
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start5, 8, 11, 12

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (5) PERFECT TIARA has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes in three starts so far, most recently when returning from three months out over 1200M on October 15th. She has raced close to the pace in her outings so far and draws very nicely to do the same here, with every chance of winning. (3) JEONGSANG HIT started her career well but seemingly lost her way slightly across the summer, but she returned to some semblance of form when 3rd over this distance in a similar all filly maiden on October 28th. That wasn’t a quick race, but she previously posted a good time for this distance and from a good gate, she can be a contender here. (8) GLOBAL CHUKBAE did nothing on debut back in May, but she looked well when leading for most of the way in a trial earlier this month. She could well be a different proposition this time around.  (11) JERAQUEEN and (1) TAEPYEONG VISION others who could feature in the finish.

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

After a mild weekend last week, temperatures have plummeted once more but it should at least be dry and clear for the Saturday meeting at Seoul which has 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Ilgan Sports winner Nut Play returns to action on Saturday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with six of the twelve racing for the first time. Plenty will be tempted by first-timer (9) CROWN HAMSEONG. She won a trial just last week when sitting handy throughout and finishing off well. She makes a fast debut here, but Moon Se-young is up and there isn’t too much to fear in this field. (10) HIT FLY ran 4th on debut back in September m showing at the front and stopping the clock in a quick time. She won’t need to improve much on that to be in the finish today. (5) QUERER ran 2nd over 1000M on October 21st, sitting handy before running on and she too should have come on for that run. (12) HOMYEONG QUEEN and (11) RUBY PORT are others who hinted at ability on their respective debuts.

Selections(9) Crown Hamseong (10) Hit Fly (5) Querer (12) Homyeong Queen
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start 5, 6, 9, 10

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

(1) NAEGILUI WINNER is the one to beat here. He comes in off a last start 3rd place over this distance on October 15th when settling midfield and running on. He has proven able to race on pace as well when 2nd on debut and from a good draw, he can get an easy run to the lead and potentially make all.  (5) PLAN B comes in having run 2nd and 3rd in her latest two both over this distance and most recently as beaten favourite on November 11th when well positioned but not kicking on. She looks nicely in again in this company and can get closer today. (3) FIRST CHOUX is yet to finish in the top two, but he has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and from a good draw can be a factor. (6) HANGANG GLORY and the solitary debut-maker (2) URUS KHAN are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(1) Naegilui Winner (5) Plan B (3) First Choux (6) Hangang GLory
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(9) RAON THE COBRA shapes as a warm favourite here. His sole win to date came over this distance back in May and after a couple of 5th place finishes, he enters off a 3rd at his class and distance on October 29th when he raced on pace throughout and had a couple of today’s rivals back down the track behind him. In this company he should be on the early speed, and he may take some beating. Second favourite will be (2) PURPLE WINK. He comes in off a somewhat plain effort over 1200M on October 28th when 6th of ten but he has placed at this class and from a good draw, can be given another chance today. (11) ARGO MUJEOK is another who will need a line drawn through his latest. He does have plenty of experience at this level though and has the joint fastest time among these for the trip. (7) BARO CHAMPION is up in class following a win over 1200M on October 21st, and along with (10) BANFF, also up in class, is another place chance.

Selections(9) Raon The Cobra (2) Purple Wink (11) Argo Mujeok (7) Baro Champion
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 9, 10, 11

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

(11) KOREA GOLD ran out an emphatic winner on debut over 1200M on November 4th, coming from off the pace and finishing very pleasingly. The overall time wasn’t quick, although the final furlong was, and while he comes up in class and in trip today, neither should be a major issue and he can win again. The main danger – and probable favourite – is (9) AREUMDAUN SAI. He may have only won once in eighteen attempts, but he comes in having run 2nd in his latest two, both at this class and distance and both times having raced close to the speed. He will surely be close again here. (5) SAENAE KHAN mixes his form, but he placed at this class over 1300M two starts back and having drawn well to get a forward position, should be a factor in the finish. (1) VELVETY and (3) NAOL SKY among other place chances.

Selections(11) Korea Gold (9) Areumdaun Sai (5) Saenae Khan (1) Velvety
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

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

After a couple of shaky efforts on her first tries at this class, (7) MUNHAK EAGLE looks to be coming back into form with a good 2nd place at class and distance on October 22nd when prominent throughout. She has the fastest time among these for the 1200M and in this company can sit just behind the speed and prove too strong. (8) RAON THE TAP used up plenty of energy in that October 22nd race to get to the lead from gate eleven, ultimately weakening and finishing midfield. That was only his third start and his first at 1200M and he should have benefitted from the experience. He stays lightly weighted, comes into a slightly better gate, and he should have a better time of it today. Both will need to overturn the form on (1) BICHUICA, who won that October 22nd race at odds in excess of 90/1. He comes up a full 3.5kg in the weights but warrants more respect here. (10) FIJI BLADE and (2) BEST CLONE among others to consider for the places.

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President’s Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan (November 19)

Winner’s Man will attempt to complete a “Grand Slam” of local G1 events in the President’s Cup at Seoul on Sunday afternoon. https://korearacing.live/2023/11/18/winners-man-bids-for-g1-grand-slam-in-presidents-cup/See here for a full horse by horse guide to the big race which is race 8 on the 11-race Sunday Seoul card which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here is the race-by-race:

Winner’s Man comes in off KRA Cup Classic success last month (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) FRESH MAN is the one to beat having run 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 7th racing on pace throughout. He draws well, the step up in trip shouldn’t be a problem, and he can go one better this time. (10) MOMO K debuted at this trip on October 14th and came from off the pace to run a fair 3rd. He should be better for the run and can go close again. Among the first-time starters, (8) BEOLGYO CHADOL looks the best. She went through two trials, improving in the second of them when 2nd across the line in a decent time. Bringing that form to the races will see her go close. (2) BEST WHIZ and (11) PASALUBONG others who can enter the frame.

Selections(4) Fresh Man (10) Momo K (8) Beolgyo Chadol (2) Best Whiz
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

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

Standard maiden here. (5) MIGHTY CAP ran 4th on debut over 1000M before stepping up to today’s distance to run 2nd on October 14th having led almost the entire way around. She draws nicely to lead again, and she will be hot favourite to score here. The rest of the exposed form is not great, although (7) THUNDER GALLOPER will probably be second favourite on the strength of his last start 4th place at this distance, his best to date. A repeat of that run could see him get closer in this company. Given the paucity of quality opponents, debut-maker (2) SLAM DRAGON has to be given a chance. It’s hard to judge his trial as it was run slowly but he finished off pleasingly enough and draws nicely. (3) CLOVER PARTY and (11) GOLDEN LINE are the other logical place chances.

Selections(5) Mighty Cap (7) Thunder Galloper (2) Slam Dragon (3) Clover Party
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 11

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

Two standouts here. (1) SAENAE VIVA led almost the entire way around last time out on October 9th only to be taken down by the favourite late on. That was her first start since April, and she should strip fitter for the run and from a nice draw can go one better here. The main danger is (2) POWERFUL VISION. She has shown steady improvement across four starts so far, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on October 7th when handy throughout. She too should be on the speed and really it is a toss-up between her and Saenae Viva for favourite status. (6) STEALTH PARK will be third favourite He was 5th behind Saene Viva on October 9th and at the start before ran 2nd, well back behind a good winner, but having raced on pace, over this distance. He can sit handy and run on here. (4) MACH YEOJE and (10) GEOMUI JEONSEOL are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(1) Saenae Viva (2) Powerful Vision (6) Stealth Park (4) Mach Yeoje
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Very tricky maiden to open at Busan. (7) YONGBI CHEONWANG improved at start number three when tried at this distance for the first time on October 13th, racing on pace throughout. There could still be some improvement in the tank, and he can get to the lead here and potentially go all the way. (5) BEST LEADER secured a runner-up finish two starts back having almost managed to lead the whole way around. She followed it up with a 5th place in a decent time over 1200M on October 20th when this time coming from off the pace. The additional half furlong can suit, and she should be close. (9) STORMING MAGIC has a couple of 4th places among four outings to date including the fastest time in the field for the distance and she can be close here. (3) BEST PRIME and (4) DAESEUNGNIJA others to consider for the minors.

Selections(7) Yongbi Cheonwang (5) Best Leader (9) Storming Magic (3) Best Prime
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) MIRAE TOWER comes in off a runner-up finish over 1200M on October 22nd when for the first time he was ridden to lead. He comes up in trip but Moon Se-young stays aboard and similar tactics can be expected here. (5) WONDERFUL SEEKING has raced just twice improving to 4th place at start number two when running on from midfield. She can continue to get closer today. (4) POWER ETCHED beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over 1200M on October 21st when coming from off the pace. He already has a runner-up finish to his name over this distance and in this company can be on speed and in this a long way. (6) TRES VITE and (11) SHARP SUNSHINE look to be the other place chances.

Selections(3) Mirae Tower (5) Wonderful Seeking (4) Power Etched (6) Tres Vite
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

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

(8) ARA NURI enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at 1200M, first from racing handy and then from closing well. In this inauspicious company, she can be expected to be ridden on pace and while any top three placing will see her exit class 6, it should really be with a win. (2) HAVE A GOOD YEAR looks the second best. He has a 2nd place on his resume over this distance and while he races for the first time since June, he won a trial in late October in a fast time making all and if he can bring anything like that form to the races, he shouldn’t be far away. (7) TAEPUNGI CHUKJE has a 3rd place to his name, recorded prior to a five-an-a-half month layoff. He returned underwhelmingly earlier this month but should have come on for the run and can be closer here. (5) MAGIC Q and (1) STORMY DAY possibly the best of a limited rest.

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

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

It’s two years since Hangang Ace won the Munhwa Ilbo as a 2yo. He finally makes it to class 2 (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (7) CHEONMAPYEONGJEONG will be the one to beat, having led for much of the way on her debut on October 21st, ultimately finishing 3rd over 1000M in a fair time. She should have derived benefit from the experience and this time she can go all the way. It took two goes for (6) ROYAL PLUS to qualify but she did it nicely the second time around, sitting handy and running on well. If she brings that for to the races, she can go well first-up. (1) BEAUTYWONDERFUL ran 4th on debut over 1000M on October 7th. He time was marginally faster than the one the favourite achieved on her debut, and she can be taken seriously here. Returning to the first-time starters, (12) BEOLGYOWISU and (5) GOOD FIGHTER are others who hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(7) Cheonmapyeongjeong (6) Royal Plus (1) Beautywonderful (12) Beolgyowisu
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with al but two having raced before. (2) HERO CHAMP has raced three times already and has two 3rd place finishes including most recently at this distance on October 15th when settling behind the speed and running on. He draws nicely here and today can be his day. The probably favourite is (1) CITY KING. After a positive trial, he ran well for 4th on debut on October 14th, racing handy throughout. He should have come on for that run, he should be on pace, and he has solid claims here. It would be a surprise if that pair didn’t fill out the quinella as the exposed form weakens. (10) SEOCHEON LION is the only other one with experience to have shown ability with a 4th and two 5th places from three starts. He should be there or thereabouts again. Debut-makers (11) SPINNING BOOM and (3) SUMMER PARTY therefore warrant some consideration although in the latter’s case it is more for the jockey booking than the trial performance.

Selections(2) Hero Champ (1) City King (10) Seocheon Lion (11) Spinning Boom
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Class 4 for juveniles which means imports and six of the ten are racing for the first time. They include (5) YEONGUNG BUHWAL, who went through two trials, finishing a close 2nd in the first and then winning the second on September 8th having led all the way and stopping the clock in a quick time. It has taken him a couple of months to get to the races, but he looks to have ability and will be well backed first up. If you prefer experience, then (1) HERO FIGHTER is the one. He has raced three times already and has a win to his name over 1000M in August when he made all. He weakened late on when trying this distance for the first time on September 23rd but should have benefitted from the experience and should be on pace again and in this a long way. (4) MONTAUK CHAT was a trial winner before running a fair 5th of nine on debut in a quick race over 1000M on October 21st. With some natural improvement, he can be in the finish here. Returning to the debut makers, (2) EAST JUMP and (6) DANCING WHIZ are others who showed well in trials.

Selections(5) Yeongung Buhwal (1) Hero Fighter (4) Montauk Chat (2) East Jump
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

More imported juveniles, this time all maidens and with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) ECLAIRFURY is probably the pick. She was ordinary in her first trial but fairly bolted up in another on October 6th when settling midfield and then running away from the field in the straight, stopping the clock in a quick time. The 1200M should suit first up and she may take some beating. (4) TAEKHAN also went through two trials, similarly improving in the second of then on October 27th when an on-pace runner-up in a good time. He draws well to be on pace and should be in the mix. (8) BULTANEUN SIMJANG was a close at hand 3rd in the same trial (also trialling up for the second time and improving) and he too warrants consideration here. (10) NONSTOP DREAM was a trial winner before running 4th on debut over 1000M in a fast race on October 21st. He can match or better that here. (7) MAGIC POTION another first timer in the hunt.

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Sprinter Showdown Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (November 12)

The sprinters have their final chance of 2023 of a big prize at Busan on Sunday afternoon when the likes of Eoma Eoma, Beolmaui Star and Ssonsal line up over 1400M in the local G3 Kookje Shinmun Trophy. See here for full preview. The big race is race 5 on a 6-race card at Busan that runs from 11.50 to 16:35. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are all the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener and there will be a hot favourite. That’s (3) HERE I AM who after an ordinary debut has registered a 2nd and a 4th in two subsequent starts, both over this trip, and both times racing on pace. He has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and from a good draw, he should have too much here. The second quickest time belongs to (10) GEOLJAK EUTTEUM. That was recorded on his second start when coming from off the pace and finishing as runner-up, a long way behind a good winner but well clear of 3rd. He did nothing on his reappearance in October, but that 2nd is enough to give him a chance here. (1) HAKSAN DAESE has finished off both his races to date well and was 5th when stepped up to this trip. Expect him to be running on and threatening the places here. (6) LONDON VICTORY and first-time starter (8) SOLAIRE other place chances.

Selections(3) Here I Am (10) Geoljak Eutteum (1) Haksan Daese (6) London Victory
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

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

Fillies (and one mare) in this maiden. (8) TAEPYEONGMU shapes as a probable favourite here. She has six top-five finishes from nine starts and has posted consistent times at this distance. She likes to race on or close to the pace, and today can be here day. (7) HAYAN TAEYANG raced twice in the spring for 6th and 4th and then returned after five months off to run 5th of nine over this distance on October 14th. She should strip fitter for that run and is potentially the danger. In a race with not much early speed, (9) GOLDEN FLYING may well find herself up with Taepyeongmu setting the pace. Her form his fair and she can be competitive. (2) CHONGAL COLONEL and (10) YEJIMONG among other minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Taepyeongmu (7) Hayan Taeyang (9) Golden Flying (2) Chongal Colonel
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) ACRO MARINE has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over 1200M on October 8th when he was ridden much further forward than in his first two starts. Moon Se-young climbs aboard today and he can settle behind the early speed and prove too strong. (2) HANGANG TSAR was an improved 2nd over this distance on October 14th. He hasn’t exactly set the stopwatch alight but from a nice draw he can go close again. (1) THEME TANSAENG will be expected to be on pace here and enters with a 3rd and a 4th among his latest three. A repeat of either of those performances will see him challenging for better in this company. (10) BULGEUN POKPUNG and (4) WONDERFUL REGAL among others who could make it into the minor money.

Selections(5) Acro Marine (2) Hangang Tsar (1) Theme Tansaeng (10) Bulgeun Pokpung
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

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

Juvenile maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. (6) HUIMANG CANDY will be the hot favourite.  After finishing 5th on debut, she was an improved 2nd at start number two on October 13th racing on pace and leading in the closing stages only to be narrowly beaten. She can be on pace or handy here and prove too strong. (11) OVER THE TRIPLE looks an interesting debut-maker from the Bart Rice stable. He came from well back to easily win an October trial in quick time and if he can bring that form to the races, he is a chance. (7) DOCTOR ERICA was 3rd behind Huimang Candy when debuting in that October 13th race and was on the speed throughout. With some natural improvement she can go close again. (2) POWERFUL DASH actually beat Huimang Candy on the latter’s debut and along with (9) KOHINOOR is another in the hunt.

Selections(6) Huimang Candy (11) Over The Triple (7) Doctor Erica (2) Powerful Dash
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

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

Fillies only and it’s a competitive race. (1) SINUI YEOJE was a winner over 1000M at start number two in September before running 5th of eleven when favourite for her first try at this class over 1200M on October 22nd when handy throughout. She comes into a much better gate tonight so could well get a softer run to the lead and if she does, she can win. (5) GALSAEK HYANGGI enters off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two at this class with the 2nd being at this distance. She likes to settle back and run on, and she should be a danger late here. (3) LADY CODI has similar form to Sinui Yeoje with a win over 1000M followed by a really good 4th at this class on October 14th in a similar all-filly race at 1200M. She is well drawn and should be in the mix. (10) GEOLJAK ONE and (7) SESANG APEURO the others in the hunt.

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

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

Moon Se-young is aboard a lot of good chances on Saturday, including Youngyoung Socks, who he won September’s Gold Circle Trophy on (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener. (7) EXCELLENT MATTA beat three of these on her way to 3rd place at this distance on October 14th when on pace throughout. That followed a previous runner-up finish at 1000M. She did get sent back to trial for laying in throughout he home straight, but she came through that in good order at the end of last month and she will be the favourite here. The biggest threat could come from one of the two debut-makers. (6) URIGA was an on-pace 2nd in her trial, stopping the clock in a fair time and if she brings that form to the races, she can go close. (3) LOVE MUNMAK was 4th in that October 14th race, just half a length behind Excellent Matta and can be in the finish again. (4) CHAMJOEUN INYEON and (2) MISS FINAL are others in the frame.

Selections(7) Excellent Matta (6) Uriga (3) Love Munmak (4) Chamjoeun Inyeon
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

The second division of the juvenile filly maiden. (8) GEUMAK STAR comes in having taken part in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy last month. She finished down the field behind the likes of Nice Time and Lala K, but she got her chance there courtesy of her previous 2nd over 1000M on September 10th. Returning to significantly shallower waters today, she should be too good. (6) STUNNING CHAMP ran well on debut for 5th, coming from well off the pace over 1000M. She should have come on for that run and the increased trip here can suit. (5) ANYANG TSUNAMI was slow on debut but showed improvement second-up when racing on pace over 1200M and just getting tired at the end. If she can continue on the same upwards trajectory, then she can be in the place hunt here. (2) B.K. BELLE and (3) SPARK THUNDER others to consider.

Selections(8) Geumak Star (6) Stunning Champ (5) Anyang Tsunami (2) B.K. Belle
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 9

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

A regular maiden here but another warm favourite and Moon Se-young is aboard again. This time it’s (1) PLAN B who comes in off a very close 2nd place at this distance on October 14th when coming from off the pace and almost getting up. She comes into a better gate, and she should be too good. Should you prefer to have a plan b, then it may be (6) GANGCHEOL BUDAE. He has hinted at ability in his latest two when unlike in previous efforts, he has been ridden much handier. In this company he can be on pace and can be in this a long way. (8) FIGHTING K debuted all the way back in November of last year, finishing midfield and then wasn’t seen again. He finally returns fifty-one weeks later, gelded, and having looked good in an October trial. He couldn’t get a softer race to return in and he has to be considered. (9) NAEGILUI CAPTAIN has a 2nd place on his record and that is enough to put him in the minor frame along with (7) JEONGSEONG VICE.

Selections(1) Plan B (6) Gangcheol Budae (8) Fighting K (9) Naegilui Captain
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens and we may have the hottest favourite yet. (4) RAON TAP PLAY won his trial before running 2nd on debut over 1200M on October 15th, settling back and finishing well. He should have come on from that and in this company and from this gate may well be ridden hand like he was in his trial. He should win. (9) SAHARAMOND ran 3rd on debut in September over 1000M before finishing 4th in that October 15th race. He draws wide again but shapes as a potential danger. So too (7) STORM GUY, who got sent back to trial after a lacklustre August debut but looked much better on his return on October 8th when an on pace 3rd. He has the quickest start and can lead here. (1) MY KHAN and debut-maker (2) LEGEND TANSAENG are others to consider.

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Juvenile Series Part 2 Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 5)

The Juvenile Series continues at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday afternoon with the two tracks having their final separate races before they come together for the Breeders’ Cup finale in December. Baekduui Kkum will be hot favourite for the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy at Busan having won both the Rookie Stakes and Areumdaun Jilju Stakes, while at Seoul, with the first two home in the Monhwa Ilbo Trophy not in attendance, Lala K will be favoured to get back to winning ways. 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:

Lala K will be expected to return to winning ways at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener with all but one racing for the first time. (3) WONDERFUL PASS gets the nod having won her trial in a fair time on October 20th when racing handy throughout. She draws nicely here and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (9) NESSUN DORMA came through the same trial, finishing 2nd lest than a length in arrears. She had led for much of the way around so she has to contend with a slightly wide draw here, but she should be competitive. (7) RAON PANORAMA went through two trials and showed a bit more maturity in the second of them when a close 3rd in an average time. That’s enough to put her in contention here. (6) SHACKLE POINT and (2) BRGHT HANSEN others who hinted at ability in their respective heats.

Selections(3) Wonderful Pass (9) Nessun Dorma (7) Raon Panorama (6) Shackle Point
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

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

(3) WINNER DRAGON looks the one to beat here. He has a 2nd place to his name and comes in off a last start 3rd over this distance on October 7th when he settled midfield and ran on, not going down by much. He has the fastest time among these for the distance by some margin and may prove hard to beat this time. (8) HAKSAN MACHO has shown steady progress across three starts so far, most recently 4th over this distance on October 7th when settling right back and running on. He has a good finish on him and can run into some money again. (10) HEY MAMA has a couple of 3rd places in her recent form and with Johan climbing aboard today can aim for the places. (11) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG and newcomer (4) DREAM CARD are others who could potentially go close.

Selections(3) Winner Dragon (8) Haksan Macho (10) Hey Mama (11) Seongsil Yeongung
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here (7) STARTER was sent off as favourite on debut over 1000M on October 7th and duly obliged, leading every step of the way and crossing the line three-lengths to the good in a quick time. She comes up in both class and distance today, but neither should be an issue, and in restricted filly and mare company, she will be strongly favoured to maintain her 100% record. (11) TAEPYEONG FIGHTER got her maiden two starts back over this distance before running 2nd on her first try at this class on October 9th. She likes to race handy so she has to deal with the wide draw as well as an additional 3kg on her back, but she can go close again. (4) AL SIMON has been working her way back into form in recent efforts and there is no reason why she can’t come off the pace to at least match her last starts 3rd. (10) SMART SOCKS and (3) HAPPY PLAY others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Starter (11) Taepyeong Fighter (4) Al Simon (10) Smart Socks
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 11

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

(3) CHARMING BEST took a couple of goes to find his feet but has looked to be figuring things out in his latest two with a 4th and most recently a 2nd place over this distance. Last time out he led for much of the way and stopped the clock in a time significantly quicker than any of today’s rivals have managed. He draws well and should win. (7) KING FIGHTER too comes in off a good 2nd place at this distance on October 6th when he led until the closing stages. An apprentice keeps the weight down and he should be on pace and in this a long way once more. (6) WONDERFUL ONE raced well for 3rd over 1300M two weeks ago. He makes a quick return here and can be in the finish again. (8) LAND BANK and (11) COLONEL FLYING are among plenty of other placing chances.

Selections(3) Charming Best (7) King Fighter (6) Wonderful One (8) Land Bank
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

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

The favourite here will be (4) ONE SPEAR. He got his maiden win two starts back over 1400M and then ran a strong 3rd over this class and distance on October 7th when settling right back and then finishing off smoothly.  He draws slightly better today to be ridden perhaps in midfield and he can use his strong finish to return to the winner’s circle. (8) ARGO MUJEOK comes back in trip after middling efforts at slightly further. The last time he raced at 1300M he won, albeit at class 6, and he can be a danger here. (10) EINSPANNER hasn’t quite lived up to his impressive debut but comes in off a front-running 3rd place over 1200M and will probably cross and attempt to lead again. If he can find a forward position and save some energy, then he can be in this a long way. (3) NAOL SKY and (11) CHADOL RUN other possibles.

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

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

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

Juvenile maidens to begin with. (9) WORLD SHANNONS was a trial winner in September before running 3rd on debut over 1000M on October 7th when on pace throughout. He should have come on for that run and has every chance here. The most experienced runner is (6) SMART CLAIR. He has raced five times, finishing between 3rd and 5th on every occasion. That 3rd was on his latest over this distance on October 8th when handy throughout and he should be aiming for a better finish today. (3) CHEONGRYANGSAN is another who ran 3rd on debut, in his case over 1000M on October 7th. He draws nicely to be on pace again and is another who with some natural improvement can be a danger. (4) GREAT STORM and (1) SEOUL DOLPUNG are others with the potential to improve.

Selections(9) World Shannons (6) Smart Clair (3) Cheongryangsan (4) Great Storm
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens. (5) GLOBAL CODIE will be a warm favourite having trialled well and then run 4th on debut over 1000M on October 7th when handy throughout. He should have benefitted from the experience, the additional furlong can suit, and he won’t need to improve much on that run to win here. (10) SEOCHEON LION has raced twice, finishing 5th and 4th, most recently when on pace at this distance. The draw isn’t ideal, but he should be going close again. There are three debut-makers and of them (9) MAX GOLD looks the best. He settled midfield in his trial before running through the line well and this is a nice race to debut in. (2) SPALTA and (4) CROQUIS others with the potential to improve.

Selections(5) Global Codie (10) Seocheon Lion (9) Max Gold (2) Spalta
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 10

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

Maiden fillies here. (10) MENI CHARM enters off a decent 3rd over this distance on October 14th when on pace and briefly leading in the straight. She may need a touch of luck at the start but if she can get to a forward position, she can make it thirteenth time lucky. (6) NEMO SPIRIT looks to be the main danger. She’s been knocking at the door in recent starts including a 3rd place at this distance back in August. She can get a bit far back in her races but if she can be in contention in the straight then she has a chance. (3) RAON SPIKE returned to action on September after almost a year out. She should have benefited from the run and can improve here. (4) MARUBYEOL and (7) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL others in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Meni Charm (6) Nemo Spirit (3) Raon Spike (4) Marubyeol
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(8) LAFAYETTE is the one to beat here. He comes in off two 4th places and a 3rd from his latest two, most recently over 1300M on October 9th when settling midfield and running on. There isn’t much in the way of early speed in this race so today, he can be expected to be ridden on pace and he can go all the way. (6) RAON JUMP has a 3rd and a 2nd in her record. She has a strong finish on her and the step up to 1400M can suit. (3) SANGIM DAEPYO and (9) HEUIMANGUI CHANGA come in having run 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced one another at this distance on October 8th. It wasn’t a quick race, and both were sent off at big odds, but both can be competitive again in this company. (1) LAST PITCH another who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) Lafayette (6) Raon Jump (3) Sangim Daepyo (9) Heuimangui Changa
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start2, 8, 10, 11

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

(5) ILDONG BAKSU has never won or even finished 2nd but she does seem to love coming 3rd, something she has done on five out of six occasions. She generally likes to lead and from a good gate, could get quite an easy run to the front. In this company, it could be her day. If she once more finds a couple too quick, then among the leading contenders is (6) ORAEDAHAMKKE. He made the breakthrough over 1200M at start number three before finishing a beaten favourite on his first try at this level on October 9th. He has proven to have a fast finish and he can be a danger here. (3) SMART CAT ran out a good winner over 1200M on October 8th, settling midfield and running on. He comes up in class and slightly in trip here but should be equal to both. (10) GEUMBIT GANGHO and (7) MAGIC MOCCASIN others in the hunt.

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Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (October 29)

The best filly or mare in Korea returns to action on Sunday as Jeulgeounyeojeong, the Triple Tiara winner, lines up for the second leg of the Queens’ Tour fall and winter in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Busan on Sunday afternoon. The big race is race 5 of a 6-race card at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong should be too good again on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens and plenty look like they have a win in them. (1) GEUMAK JINJU has a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts so far, both over 1000M in good times and racing on pace. He draws very nicely here, the additional furlong shouldn’t be a problem, and he can win. (6) MULLEBANGA comes in off a strong 3rd place over this distance on September 23rd when settling midfield and running on. It was a decent time, and a similar performance would put him in the finish again. (8) YONGAM MARENGO similarly enters following a good 3rd place, in his case over 1000M on September 16th. He was doing his best work late and the additional furlong can suit. (9) FINAL GO and (4) MAGIC STRONG are among plenty of others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(1) Geumak Jinju (6) Mullebanga (8) Yongam Marengo (9) Final Go
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

(2) SUPER ONE will be hot favourite in this ordinary maiden. He’s shown steady improvement across his latest couple of starts with a 5th and a 4th, the latter at this distance on September 23rd when racing much handier than in his previous starts. From a good gate he should so the same here and is the one to beat. (10) MAX MA enters off back-to-back 4th places in the summer, leading both times. He has been back to trial since his latest outing and looked well. He draws a touch wide but if he can get on pace, he should go close. (6) AUSTIN LEADER has a 2nd place on his record over this distance and should be there or thereabouts again. (11) SHOUT KURO and (4) HEART K are others with the potential to improve.

Selections(2) Super One (10) Max Ma (6) Austin Leader (11) Shout Kuro
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(9) LONDON ACE ran out a class and distance winner on September 24th when settling just behind the pace and running on strongly. She comes up 2.5kg in the weights but has every chance of striking again. (6) RAON THE COBRA was a strong winner over this distance in May, making all and has subsequently run 5th in both starts at this level. He should be on pace here and shapes as a potential danger. (7) GEUMJEONSA settled midfield and then ran on to score a tight win on debut over 1000M on September 22nd. He comes up in class and in distance here but should have benefited from that run and with some natural improvement can be competitive. (1) MEOTJIN GIROK and (5) HIGH PARK among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(9) London Ace (6) Raon The Cobra (7) Geumjeonsa (1) Meotjin Girok
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but one racing for the first time. We’ll not dismiss the experience though, because (12) SHINE FOREST ran well on debut over 1000M on September 15th racing midfield and running on for 3rd in a quick time. With that in the tank, she may just be a bit further down the line than the rest of these and she goes on top. The pick of the first timers is (5) SAENAE HIT. She looked assured in her trial, running through the line well in a fair time, and the 1200M can suit first up. (11) ROADTOMOMENTUM beat a couple of these in her heat when crossing the line 4th in a decent time and with some natural improvement can be in the finish here. (4) FLEX DAY and (1) MOTHER WONDERFUL others who caught the eye in qualification. 

Selections(12) Shine Forest (5) Saenae Hit (11) Roadtomementum (4) Flex Day
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 11, 12

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

After twelve tries and plenty of near misses, it’s about time that (5) DAEHEUNG CLASS got his maiden win. He has placed in each of his last seven races, the five most recent being at this class. Moon Se-young climbs on for the first time and it should finally be his day. Should he mange to find one too quick yet again, then it might be (11) GLADIUS. A good winner on debut over 1000M, she ran a very close 2nd on her fist try at this class over 1200M on September 17th. She draws a touch wide, but she should have plenty of scope for more development and she can be a big danger here. (2) STAND BY ME got his sole win at this distance and enter off a fair 4th over 1400M last time out. He races for the first time since July so comes in fresh and in with a shout. (10) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG and (1) DORIPO others to keep safe.

Selections(5) Daeheung Class (11) Gladius (2) Stand By Me (10) Challanhan Pokpung
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 11

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

(3) GANGSEO BULPAE will be hot favourite in this maiden. She ran a close 2nd on debut in June having led for most of the way before being an on-pace 3rd on her return three months later in September. Both were at 1200M and both times she was the beaten favourite, but she should strip fitter for the shorter layoff this time and she can win here. (4) YONGBI STAR is the main danger. She enters off a strong 3rd place finish over 1300M when she was ridden much further forward than her previous starts. Expect her to drop in handy here and challenge late. (9) HI LEGEND ran a fair 5th on debut over 1000M earlier this month having taken an age to get into top gear. The extended trip should suit, and he can get closer this time. (8) DOCTOR LICA and (6) GREAT BOY looks to be the other placing chances.

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