Seoul

Christmas Day Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (December 25)

Where better to spend Christmas Day than Seoul Racecourse? It’s free entry and there is a bumper 12-race holiday card running from 11:00 to 17:00. Here are the previews:

Punters file in on Christmas Eve – there is racing on Christmas Day too!

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

Maiden fillies kick off the Christmas Day program and there are two standouts. (7) SAENAE VIVA returned from sic months off in October and has run 2nd and 4th in two starts back so far racing on pace both times. Third-up this preparation, she can be peaking fitness-wise, and she should be on speed again and this time stay on all the way. The danger is (9) JEONGSEONGTIGER. She comes in off an improved 3rd place over this distance on November 18th when racing handy throughout. Antonio climbs on today and a similar run should see her close. (10) QUERER did nothing on her first try at this distance on November 25th but her 2nd place on debut over 1000M back in October is enough to give her another chance here. (2) B.K. BELLE and (1) CALIPH others potentially on the right trajectory.

Selections(7) Saenae Viva (9) Jeongseongtiger (10) Querer (2) B.K. Belle
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 10

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

It’s hard to go past (1) PASALUBONG here. After a middling debut, he ran a much-improved 2nd at start number two over 1200M on November 19th when settling midfield and running on having been drawn in gate eleven. He comes into a much better barrier, the slight step up in trip can suit, and he should take some beating. (2) WONDERFUL SEEKING has hinted at ability with two solid 4th places from her latest two at this distance and at 1400M. She draws nicely to sit on the speed here and can get closer. (11) WONDERFUL REGAL enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes following a six-month absence and while the draw is not ideal, he can be in the finish again. Continuing on a theme, (8) WONDERFUL WELLS and (3) NAEGILUI LEADER are others in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Pasalubong (2) Wonderful Seeking (11) Wonderful Regal (8) Wonderful Wells
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 8

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

(3) SLAM DRAGON has a 4th and a 2nd from two starts so far, most recently over 1400M on December 2nd when handy throughout. He draws nicely here for Antonio to drop him in behind the leaders and he should have too much at the business end of the race. (5) CLOVER PARTY is the logical second pick. He has shown his best form so far in his latest two and was a good runner-up over 1200M on November 19th when settling midfield and running on with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. (8) BEAUTYWONDERFUL has run on well enough in her opening two appearances to suggest the slight step up in trip can suit. (11) WONDERFUL SWEET and (10) BAEKRYONG the other logical placing chances.

Selections(3) Slam Dragon (5) Clover Party (8) Beautywonderful (11) Wonderful Sweet
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) TAENGGEURI has been getting progressively closer culminating in a 3rd place over 1300M on November 26th when coming from off the pace. His racing style suggests that the step up to two turns will be in his favour and he can make his breakthrough here. That’s true of (5) CHEONMA BULPAE who got his best finish so far when stepped up to 1400M on November 19th and running 5th, ahead of a couple of these. He has the fastest final furlong average time in the field and can potentially translate that to two-turn success here. In fact, the only one to have previously tackled the distance is (10) TRES VITE. That was several starts back, but he did manage a 4th place over it and that’s enough to put him in the frame here. (3) BEAT RACER and (8) GOLD CHARM others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Taenggeuri (5) Cheonma Bulpae (10) Tres Vite (3) Beat Racer
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

A relatively small field but a competitive one. We’ll take a chance on (9) LEGEND K, who had seemingly lost his way for a while but has returned to form of late, registering the fastest time of any of these for the distance when 5th on November 18th and then coming back out two weeks later to run a close 2nd, again at class and distance, on December 3rd. The wide draw isn’t a problem, and he can go one better today. (8) MIGHTY CAP comes up in class having broken through at start number three on November 19th, making all over this distance. Her times haven’t been quick, but she has shown improvement each time, and under a light weight, she can measure up here. (3) PHOENIX CLASS has run 4th in both starts at this class since getting promoted with a smart win over this distance in August. She can be close again. (5) TRISTAN WANGJA is similarly up in class and along with (1) MENI CHARM, looks a place chance.

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Christmas Eve Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview

With there being an additional card at Seoul on Christmas Day, the usual Sunday roles are reversed and it is Busan where the lion’s share of the action will be. Busan hosts 10 races from 10:35 to 17:30 while at Seoul there are 7 races from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maiden fillies. (8) GRAY QUEEN is the most experienced, with three starts behind her already and they include a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two at 1200M and 1300M. While not quick, her 1200M time was faster than any of the others with experience have achieved and she is the reluctant top pick here. The danger is a first-time starter. (5) GRAND CHASER looked good in a trial, settling handy and running on for a close 2nd to the experienced Mongttang in a quick time. All the trials were fast that day, but she showed enough to be considered first-up. (3) SKY GRIT led that same trial, ultimately crossing the line 3rd. She raced once without distinction in June but should be on the pace and a different prospect here. (6) GOLDEN NICE and (2) BORAM are other contenders.

Selections(8) Gray Queen (5) Grand Chaser (3) Sky Grit (6) Golden Nice
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

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

(6) UNJU TWO HEARTS will be hot favourite here. After an indifferent debut, she has registered three consecutive top-four finishes, racing on pace each time. She comes up marginally in trip but with Seo Seung-un climbing on, and against modest opposition, she shapes to be odds-on to score. (7) RED JASPER was an improved 3rd over 1200M on December 1st, overcoming gate ten to sit back and then run on. She has the best final furlong average time of any of these and from a better gate, if she can be a touch closer this time, she can be a danger. (8) MAJESTIC DANCER was an improved 3rd at start number two on November 17th, coming from off the pace. Third-up she can be peaking fitness-wise and looks a solid place chance again. (4) FLYING AARON and (3) NANGNAM DAERO others who could sneak into the minors.

Selections(6) Unju Two Hearts (7) Red Jasper (8) Majestic Dancer (4) Flying Aaron
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 9

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

(2) SEOGWI PERFECT raced on pace on start number two over 1300M only to ultimately go down by the narrowest of margins in 2nd. That was a big improvement from his debut and while he comes up slightly in trip, he also comes into a much better gate, and he can go one better today. The main danger is (3) ARA NURI. She similarly has three top-four finishes from four starts so far and from a good gate can be ridden on pace to be in this a long way. (4) CLOUD LOVE has shown steady but noticeable improvement across his latest few attempts. He doesn’t look a winning chance here but can be matching or bettering his last start 4th. (5) TAP BOLT and (11) NEVER GIVE UP other potential improvers.

Selections(2) Seogwi Perfect (3) Ara Nuri (4) Cloud Love (5) Tap Bolt
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) LEMON DOKKI returned from nine months off to run a fair 6th of eleven over 1400M on December 3rd when settling back and running on. He should strip fitter for that run, the step up to a mile can suit, and he is the one to beat here. (3) AQUARIUS too may find an extended trip beneficial. She is yet to finish in the top-two in fourteen starts but enters with recent form reading well with a pair of 4th place finishes at 1400M. She can settle behind the speed and run on here. (5) HERE THE QUEEN returned from eight months out to run 6th of nine over 1300M on December 8th. She has a 2nd and a 3rd to her name from before the layoff and like Lemon Dokki, should be fitter for her run earlier this month. (10) CHEONSU SIDAE and (9) ASTIN MARINE are others to keep safe.

Selections(2) Lemon Dokki (3) Aquarius (5) Here The Queen (10) Cheonsu Sidae
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

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

Juvenile maiden fillies open proceedings in the capital. (1) SEOCHEON LION will be one of the shortest priced favourites of the day. She is yet to finish any worse than 5th and comes in off her best to date when an on-pace 2nd over this distance on November 18th with a couple of today’s rivals a long way back. She draws nicely and won’t need to improve much – if at all – to win this. (6) CHEONHAENGCHAT has five top-five finishes from seven attempts and the second fastest time among these for the distance. In this company she should be on the speed and can be a factor for a long time. (11) SANSAMEUN HAMYANG was a much-improved 2nd at this distance on November 18th. She had a similarly wide gate to today, and she can be competitive again. (5) HOMYEONG QUEEN and (8) ROYAL BEST the other logical place chances.

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

What with there being racing on Christmas Day, there is only a short 7-race card at Seoul on Saturday running from 13:10 to 18:00 (there will also be simulcasting from the pony racing on Jeju Island). Here are the previews:

It’s cold at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

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

Tricky maiden to begin with but (5) MOMO K just about gets the nod. He’s finished 3rd in both starts so far, both at 1200M and while his times haven’t been especially quick, he’s shown enough to suggest that there can be more improvement in the tank. From a good gate he should be on pace and in this a long way. (9) DRAGON SQUARE won a November trial and then finished a fair 3rd on debut over 1400M on December 10th, settling back and running on. He finished off well in the trial too so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can match or better that 3rd today. (11) JANGGUN GARAM races for the first time since being given his chance in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy in early October. He finished down the field but the 2nd and the 3rd prior that led him to that opportunity suggest he should be very much in this. (1) SMART CLAIR and (6) SEONGSIN CHEONHA others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Momo K (9) Dragon Square (11) Janggun Garam (1) Smart Clair
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

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

(5) SEONGSIL DAERO will be favourite here. After a plain debut, she ran a strong 2nd over this distance on November and followed up with a 4th place, again at the distance, on December 3rd. She likes to race on pace and draws well to get forward and she will take some beating. (3) STEALTH PARK’s recent races have been slow, but he too has a 2nd and a 4th to his name over today’s trip. He also goes best when on pace and should be a contender here. (11) JEONGSEONG VICE enters off a much-improved runner-up finish over tis distance on November 11th. He faces the challenge of the widest gate here but in this company, shouldn’t be dismissed. (4) ON THE ROCKS and solitary debut-maker (8) EAST KING STONE are others in the hunt for the minors.

Selections(5) Seongsil Daero (3) Stealth Park (11) Jeongseong Vice (4) On The Rocks
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 11

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

It’s hard to go past (1) RAON THE FANTA. He got his maiden win at start number two over 1000M in September and has since run 2nd on both his tries at this class and distance, racing handy both times and stopping the clock in good times. He does come up a couple of kilograms in the weights, but he gets a great draw, and it would be a big surprise were he not to win this. (9) TAEPYEONG VISION is up in class following her maiden win over this distance on November 26th when she sat midfield and ran on. That marked a big improvement from her previous three efforts, but she won with enough in hand to suggest she can measure up at this level. (6) LADY CODI has put in two fair runs at this class since getting her maiden win in September. She was 4th behind Raon The Fanta two starts back and while she may not overturn that form here, she can be close. (3) SPEAR GOLD and (2) DONGHAENG FIRST are others to keep safe.

Selections(1) Raon The Fanta (9) Taepyeong Vision (6) Lady Codi (3) Spear Gold
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

(3) CITY KING got his maiden win at start number two on November 18th, making all over 1200M. He comes up in class and in distance here, but he has every chance of a repeat and will start a warm favourite. (5) CUPID CHAMP will be the clear second favourite. She is yet to win in ten attempts but has no fewer than five top-three finished including his latest at this class and distance on November 19th when 3rd having raced midfield and finished off well. She remains lightly weighted and should be there or thereabouts again. (4) MISS HIGH FLY ran 2nd at class and distance two starts back before running a fair 5th in marginally better company than this last time out and that’s enough to see her in the mix here. The returning (2) JJARTIHAN JAYU, along with (8) STORM BREAKER, are others who can enter the calculations.

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Grand Prix Stakes Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (December 17)

It’s Grand Prix Sunday and it’s going to be cold! See here for a full preview of the big race. It’s free entry to both Seoul and Busan Racecourses 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:

Triple Nine won his 5th G1 – and only Grand Prix – in 2018 (Pic: KRA)

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

(1) GROUPER has a 2nd and a 3rd from two starts so far, both over this distance and the former in a good time. He draws nicely to be on pace again here and he should be exiting the lowest class of racing with a win. (5) ANYANG TSUNAMI has made progress across three starts so far culminating in a 5th place in a fair time over this distance on November 11th. She has raced handy in her latest two and should do similar here and in this company, she won’t need to improve by very much to get close. (2) BEOLGYO CHADOL was sent off as favourite on debut following a positive trial showing. She finished back in the pack but should have benefitted from the run and can be given another chance here. (3) DREAM CARD and solitary debut maker (9) JANGBI DAEUN are others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Grouper (5) Anyang Tsunami (2) Beolgyo Chadol (3) Dream Card
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

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

(8) PERFECT TIARA has raced four times and has finished no worse than 5th. Her best so far is her latest on November 26th, when she settled midfield and ran on for 2nd in a slowly run ace over 1200M. She comes up to the 1300M for the first time, and it can suit. (1) ARNOLD QUEEN came from off the pace on debut over 1200M on October 28th to run a fair 5th. She should have come on for that run and can get closer here. (3) FIRST CHOUX loves coming 5th, something he has done on each of his last four outings, but he does have the fastest time among these for the distance and from a good draw can get closer today. (11) SAEBYEOK BULBIT and (5) GIANT FORCE are among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(8) Perfect Tiara (1) Arnold Queen (3) First Choux (11) Saebyeok Bulbit
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (4) BRIGHT HANSEN stalked the leader on debut over this distance on November 5th, before striking the front with just over a furlong to go and running on to win comfortably. She comes up in class as a result, but the manner of that win suggests there is more to come, and she is the one to beat again here. She will be the hot favourite with (2) SPARK THUNDER the second pick. The latter was an equally dominant winner at start number two on November 11th, racing on pace throughout. She too comes up in class but should be on the speed again and will surely be in this a long way. (10) HIT FLY was a little less visually impressive when getting her maiden win at start two on November 25th. The time was solid though and she too should be competitive in this company. As for those with previous experience of class 5, (8) YEOWANG SOCKS and (1) WIDAEHAN HANMA look the best.

Selections(4) Bright Hansen (2) Spark Thunder (10) Hit Fly (8) Yeowang Socks
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 9

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

(4) RAINBOW ROAD will be favourite. She ran 2nd on debut in October before posting a 4th place on November 26th, both times settling behind the speed and running on. She draws nicely and, in this company, will probably be ridden on pace. She should have too much. (7) SEUNGNI TAKEN raced a couple of times this spring without distinction but returned after seven months out on November 24th and came from off the pace to run a much-improved 2nd over this distance. He should strip fitter for the run and can be a danger here too. (10) CAPTAIN CHARLIE has been knocking on the door in his latest three, including a 3rd place over 1300M. He likes to settle back and run on so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and he can run into some money again. (3) ANY SINGS and (2) WONDERFUL KAYLAN others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Rainbow Road (7) Seungni Taken (10) Captain Charlie (3) Any Sings
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

(1) DRONE KILLER was a winner on debut over 1200M in October before running an on-pace 3rd on his first try at this class and distance on November 11th, going down narrowly. From the inside gate, he should be on pace from the start and has solid claims here. (4) HERE I AM is up in class following an emphatic win over 1200M on November 12th, making all and pulling out of sight late on. The win had been coming, Moon Se-young stays aboard, and he may well start as favourite here. (3) LEGENDSUN was an also-ran in the Listed NACF Chairman’s Trophy for juveniles last month but returns to shallower waters here and should be in the frame. (9) DREAM SKY and (6) JEONGMUN PAPAGO, 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced one another at class and distance on November 19th, re among others to keep safe.

Selections(1) Drone Killer (4) Here I Am (3) Legendsun (9) Dream Sky
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

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

The weather is about to take a turn for the cold in Korea. Steady rain but mild temperatures throughout Thursday and Friday is set to be replaced with a plummet down to sub-zero so it could make for challenging conditions for Sunday’s Grand Prix Stakes. On Saturday there are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Global Hit will be among the Grand Prix contenders on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Maiden juvenile fillies in the opener with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. The experienced few are favoured though. (5) SUMMER PARTY ran well for 3rd place on debut on November 18th in a good time over this distance. She is half-sister to the great Triple Nine, among plenty of other winners, and she can get off the mark here. (8) SHACKLE POINT sat midfield on debut over this distance on November 5th before running into 3rd place in a fair time. Like Summer Party, she should have come on for that run and Moon Se-young’s presence aboard may mean she starts as favourite. (9) MISS CONCORD ran 4th on her debut over 1000M. She finished off well and can match or better that today. Among the fist-timers, (11) ALL EYES ON ME and (7) TAP DIA trialled together, coming home 1st and 2nd and they look the pair most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(5) Summer Party (8) Shackle Point (9) Miss Concord (11) All Eyes On Me
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 12

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

Imported juveniles here and while four race for the first time, there is a winner already among the others. That’s (11) MORNING DAOL who led every step of the way on debut over this distance on November 18th, stopping the clock in a quick time with three of today’s rivals back down the track. He comes in under the same weight and while he draws a touch wider than ideal, he should repeat. (4) YEONGUNG BUHWAL was actually sent off favourite for that race having blitzed a September trial. He finished well back, but it the time was fine and what with there having been two months between trial and race, he should strip fitter here.  (10) MAKING STORY came from off the pace to run 3rd in his debut on October 9th. He too should have derived benefit from that and can match or better it here. Among the first timers, (2) FLYING CRUISER won his trial and draws nicely first-up. (8) GLOBAL CLASS also hinted at ability.

Selections(11) Morning Daol (4) Yeongung Buhwal (10) Making Story (2) Flying Cruiser
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 11

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

More imported juveniles, this time with five making their racing debuts. Once more there is a previous winner, and she will be a prohibitive favourite. That’s (5) ÉCLAIRFURY who, having won an October trial, debuted over this distance on November 18th and stalked the leader before taking things up in the straight and running away to win well. She won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win again. She’s hard to oppose but a couple of the newcomers might provide some interest. (12) NICE CHEETAH won her trial leading all the way around and crossing the line comfortably to the good. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but the Bolt D’oro filly looks to have potential So too (10) ROCKY KINGDOM. He came from midfield to run on for 2nd in is trial and 1200M may suit first-up. Returning to the experience, (3) DALKONG and (4) MGHTY SHONE both improved in their respective second starts and can continue to make progress here.

Selections(5) Eclairfury (12) Nice Cheetah (10) Rocky Kingdom (3) Dalkong
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 12

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

(4) BEOLGYOWISU drew gate twelve on debut over 1200M on November 18th and settled back before racing home well for 4th place. She should have come on for that run, she draws much better here, and she will be strongly savoured to score. (9) STUNNING CHAMP looks the clear second pick. After running 5th over 1000M on debut in October, she improved to 2nd over this distance on November 11th, settling right back and running on. Seo Seung-un, in town to ride Winner’s Min in Sunday’s Grand Prix, climbs on, and can be a danger here. (8) BEAUTIFUL HWASEONG has been slow away in both starts so far but ran on pleasingly enough for 4th last time out and can be considered for improvement again. (6) SUNGANUI CHANCE and (7) WONDERFUL PASS, who debuted together on November 5th, are others to consider.

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

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Pic: KRA)

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

(1) SAHARAMOND has a 3rd and two 4th places from three starts so far, settling back on debut while racing closer to the pace in the latter two. He draws a better gate this time and should get an easier run to the front and can win. (7) MAGIC STRONG is the main danger. He has been getting closer across his five starts, culminating in a runner-up finish over this distance on October 29th when on pace throughout and in doing so recorded the fastest time any of these have achieved at the distance so far. Expect him to be on pace again and to be in this a long way. (6) ACRO MARINE completes the top line of favourites. He was a beaten favourite when 5th last time out at 1300M but ran 2nd two starts back over this distance and on that form should be a danger. (11) NAEGILUI CAPTAIN and (10) HAKSAN DAESE the other placing chances.

Selections(1) Saharamond (7) Magic Strong (6) Acro Marine (11) Naegilui Captain
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

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

Maiden fillies. (1) MISS FINAL looks to be the one to beat having raced consistently if unspectacularly across her four outings so far. Her best was a 4th place at this distance two starts back and from a good gate, a repeat of that form can see her win in modest company here. (7) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL enters off a close 3rd place in a very slow race over this distance on November 4th when coming from off the pace. The difficulty level is similar here and she should be doing her best work late. (10) CHAMJOEUN INYEON didn’t quicken when well fancied on her latest appearance on November 11th, finishing well down the field. We’ll draw a line through that and instead go on her 3rd place two starts back which can put her in contention against this lot. (8) NEXTLEVEL and solitary newcomer (3) POETIC NUBI are others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Miss Final (7) Gangcheol Yeogeol (10) Chamjoeun Inyeon (8) Nextlevel
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) STORM GUY got his maiden win at the third time of asking on November 11th, when making all over 1200M and stopping the clock in a good time. He comes up in class here as well as by a furlong in distance, but he has every chance of winning again. (7) SEMYEONG LADY was a 50/1 winner over this class and distance on November 25th racing on pace throughout. That was her maiden win on her fourteenth start so lightning may not strike twice but she only comes up 1kg in the weights and will warrant more respect here. (4) INDIANUI BYEOL is yet to win but comes in off back-to-back 5th place finishes at this class at 1200M and 1300M. He steps up to 1400M for the first time and given his running style, it may suit. (1) EXPECT is one-paced and it is not a quick pace, but he may plod into some money here. (5) BRAVO HANSEN another in contention for the minors.

Selections(8) Storm Guy (7) Semyeong Lady (4) Indianui Byeol (1) Expect
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

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

This is a weak race for the level. That means we can forgive (6) RAON AIR FORCE for his latest on November 5th when he was sent off as favourite over class and distance and led before running out of petrol in the home straight. He had previously stuck to his task well so can be given another chance to be on pace and this time go all the way. On the subject of forgiveness, we shall extend the same courtesy to (4) GLOBAL CHANGA who has finished 8th in her latest two when racing prominently both times. She already has a 3rd and a 2nd to her name at this class and in this company, she should be challenging Raon Air Force for the lead from the start and for much of the way around. (2) GEUMAK STAR remains a maiden but comes up in class following two 2nd places from her latest three with the 3rd being when she finished back in the field in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy. She won’t need to improve much to measure up here. (3) KARIZMA and (9) SSING SSING SSING others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(6) Raon Air Force (4) Global Changa (2) Geumak Star (3) Karizma
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) ONE SPEAR got his maiden win three starts back over 1400M and has proved competitive in two outings at this level, finishing 3rd both times over 1300M and coming from well off the pace. He comes up to two turns for the first time and it may well suit. The main danger is (2) P N S AI. It’s been a while since his solitary win, but he has placed at this class and distance and enters with recent form reading well. (9) K N TIZWON returned from almost seven months off to finish midfield over 1400M on November 12th. Despite being a non-winner, he has some good performances on his record, and he should strip fitter for that run last month and go closer today. (1) GEUMA STEADY and the up in class (8) HEUIMANGUI CHANGA others in the frame.

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

Juvenile fillies have their big day at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday. At Seoul, the Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy headlines the 11 race card, which runs from 10:35 to 18:00, while at Busan, the Gyeongnam DoMin Ilbo Trophy is the highlight on the 6-race program from 11:50 to 16:35. Here are the previews:

Baekduui Kkum will be favourite to win the Gyeongnam DoMin Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with half the field racing for the first time. (7) GEUMAK JINJU began her career with a 3rd and a 2nd over 1000M but could only manage a lower midfield finish when tried at this distance for start number three. She is the most experienced of these, she can be on pace here and this time she can stay on. The main danger is set to be a debut-maker. (8) BUGANGJILJU was a close 2nd in his heat stopping the clock in a fair time having led for most of the way. If he brings that form to the races, he will go close and Moon Se-young’s presence aboard may mean he starts as the favourite. (2) SEOBU TEUKSONG and (6) SAENAE PARK both trialled up fairly, positing promising times and can make an impression first up. Returning to experience, (4) THUNDER SPEED didn’t exactly show a lot of speed on debut on November 4th, but he did finish 4th of ten and that entitles him to a chance here.

Selections(7) Geumak Jinju (8) Bugangjilju (2) Seobu Teuksong (6) Saenae Park
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

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

Maiden fillies and (2) CHAMJOEUN JILJU will be the hot favourite. She didn’t do an awful lot in her first two outings but was significantly improved at start number three over this distance on November 5th when she sat handy before running on for 2nd in a quick time. From a great draw, expect to see her on pace from the start and she won’t need to improve much to win. (4) SEONGSIL DAERO will be the second-favourite. She improved at start number two on November 11th when a close 2nd at this distance having shown on the speed and she will be battling it out with Chamjoeun Jilju from the start. (6) MYUNGJINBULLPAI has hinted at ability across two starts so far, coming from well off the pace both times. She can be a danger late on here. (7) MENI SHARK and (10) YEJIMONG others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Chamjoeun Jilju (4) Seongsil Daero (6) Myungjinbullpai (7) Meni Shark
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 11

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

Two standouts here. (6) HAKSAN MACHO has shown steady improvement across four starts so far culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on November 5th when he overcame a middling star from the widest gate to sit handy. He can settle behind the early speed again and can go one better. (1) GIPPEUM HAMSEONG is the danger. He has a 5th and a 3rd from two starts so far, the latter coming over 1200M on November 4th when settling back and running on. Exepect similar today with every chance of improvement third-up. (4) BEST WHIZ ran out of steam having led on debut two weeks ago. He still managed to finish 5th of eleven and should have come on for the run so can be given another chance here. (9) GREAT STORM and (5) TOJONG GLORY among others in the minor money frame.

Selections(6) Haksan Macho (1) Gippeum Hamseong (4) Best Whiz (9) Great Storm
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 11

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

The opener at Busan looks like a battle of the two widest drawn. (10) KING FIGHTER is the pick with a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, most recently over 1200M on November 5th when settling midfield and then running on. He had raced on pace in outings prior to that and while he may need a little luck to find a forward position here, if he can get to one, he can win. (11) SINCHEON FIRST will probably also try to get across. He has a 4th and a 3rd from his own latest two appearances, racing on the speed to beat a couple of today’s rivals in a quick time on October 27th. He too may need some early luck but has every chance. The form of the rest is a bit patchy. (7) NONSTOP DUTY comes in off a plain effort third time out behind Sincheon First but if we go on his two previous 4th places in August and September, he has a chance. With the rest of the early speed on his outside, he is in pole position to lead. (5) FLYING DIA and (4) WONDERFUL ONE will also need their respective latest outings forgiven but have shown ability previously.

Selections(10) King Fighter (11) Sincheon First (7) Nonstop Duty (5) Flying Di  a
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start4, 7, 10, 11

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

(2) VINCERO CAVALLO ran a smart 4th in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy, the first leg of the Juvenile Series, before weakening late in the second led, the Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy, last month. He skips a trip to Busan for next week’s series finale and instead returns to much more amenable waters here and should lead all the way. (6) ORAEDAHAMKKE came from off the pace to run a solid 3rd at this distance and distance on November 4th. Moon Se-young climbs on here and he can be in the finish again. (1) STAR RUSH has two 3rd places from his latest three, most recently on October 22nd when coming from well back at this distance. He has posted quick times for the distance and only Oraedahamkke has a fast final furlong average time. (3) SILVER PURGE and (8) SONGAM ARCHGIRL are the other place chances.

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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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