Seoul

Korean Derby Day Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (June 11)

It’s Derby Day 2023 and sixteen will line up for the year’s biggest Classic at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. See here for full preview. The big race is race 8 on a 10 race card at Seoul which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 7 races at Busan from 11:25 to 17:05. Here are all the previews:

It’s rare for a filly to even run in the Derby these days but Raon Giant takes her chance on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener and it’s competitive. (8) VILLARRICA was a much-improved 2nd at start number four over this distance on April 29th when ridden handy and running on in a quick time on a wet track. He can sit behind the speed again here and can go one better. (11) NINE EAGLE has a 2nd and a 3rd from two starts so far, both over today’s trip. He has been on pace both times so the wide gate can be a challenge, but he should be close again. (1) KING GO TAEYANG improved to 4th at start number two on May 13th when settling midfield and running on. Third-up he can be peaking fitness wise and from a good draw shouldn’t be far away. (4) TESTA BLUE and (6) PURPLE SHINHWA are others with placing chances.

Selections(8) Villarrica (11) Nine Eagle (1) King Go Taeyang (4) Testa Blue
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 11

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

It’s fair to say that (1) SPEAR GOLD has mixed her form across her eight starts so far but her latest effort on April 29th was encouraging. She led for much of the way around on a wet track over this distance and ultimately ran a close 3rd. She draws nicely to get an easy run to the lead again and she can be in this a long way. (6) AKKAENGI has finished no worse than 6th in four appearances so far. His times haven’t been quick, but he has a 3rd place to his name and in this company may well be ridden further forward than he has been previously. Antonio, who rode him to that 3rd, climbs back aboard. Those two in either order are the clear top two picks (8) FIRST CHOUX and (7) TI AMO have hinted at ability while (11) NEMO SPIRIT is another who may improve.

Selections(1) Spear Gold (6) Akkaengi (8) First Choux (7) Ti Amo
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 10

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

A regular maiden to kick things off on the south coast and three of the eleven are racing for the first time. One of those newcomers will be a warm favourite. That’s (3) CHAMSARANGGIL, who went through two trials in similarly quick times, crossing the line 1st in the latter having been on pace throughout. She draws nicely and if she brings that form to the races, she has every chance of a first-up success. It isn’t a strong race. Of the experienced ones, (7) SEVEN QUEEN has been getting closer over her latest few starts culminating in a 3rd place over 1200M on April 21st when coming from off the pace. She has by far the smartest finish among these and should be running on strong again. (8) TAURUS KING could be one at odds. He did nothing in his first two appearances and got sent back to trial after the second of them. He had three months off during which time he was gelded, and he looked much better trialling up behind Chamsaranggil. (4) HAVE A GOOD YEAR and (6) RUNNING FASHION are others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Chamsaranggil (7) Seven Queen (8) Taurus King (4) Have A Good Year
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 3 4, 11

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

(5) SOARA TO TO is the one to beat here. She has shown progress across her three starts to date, culminating in a 3rd place over this distance on May 13th when she was on pace throughout and didn’t go down by much. She carries the same weight here, draws well to be on or close to the speed, and she won’t need to improve by much in order to win. (9) HEY MAMA also seems to be on the right trajectory since returning from eight months out in April. She has a 5th and a 4th in two subsequent starts and third-up this preparation she may be peaking fitness wise. (2) TAEPYEONGMU only very narrowly beaten into 2nd on May 6th over this distance. From a good gate, she will be on pace and can be in this a long way. (8) BLUE ARCH and (7) MADE STAR other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Soara To To (9) Hey Mama (2) Taepyeongmu (8) Blue Arch
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 9

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

(10) PURPLE STAR shapes as the warm favourite here. She comes in off a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both over today’s trip and both times from on pace. She has the challenge of a wider gate this time, but she looks ready to win. The logical second pick is (5) SUCCESS YEONGGWANG. His most recent, on May 14th, was his best, when he led for almost the entire way only to be caught late on. The same apprentice jockey once more takes 3kg off his back and he has every chance of going close again. (8) WONDERFUL IMPACT was slowly away last time out when well beaten over 1400M. That was out of character and with a better jump today she has placing claims. (11) EVERY KING IJI and (1) ANY SINGS others in the frame.

Selections(10) Purple Star (5) Success Yeonggwang (8) Wonderful Impact (11) Every King Iji
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 9, 10

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

(1) CUPID CHIC is the standout here. Her most recent on May 13th was her best so far when she overcame gate ten to get on to the speed and ended up a narrowly beaten 2nd. She comes up to this trip for the first time but there’s no reason why it can’t suit, and from a much better gate, she can get to the front again and this time go one better. (4) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG stepped up to this trip last time out on May 14th and recorded his second consecutive 3rd place finish racing handily throughout and stopping the clock in a faster time than any of the others have managed for the distance. Moon Se-young gets on today and he should be aiming to match or better. (9) LAST PITCH was 4th behind Challanhan Pokpung in that May 14th race. A similar run will put him in the finish here. (3) AREUMDAUN SAI and (6) MENI SHARK are the other placing possibles.

Selections(1) Cupid Chic (4) Challanhan Pokpung (9) Last Pitch (3) Areumdaun Sai
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 9, 10, 11

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

Competitive race with two standouts. (7) BLUE CAPTAIN has just the one win from nineteen starts but is seemingly working towards another and was a close 2nd over 1300M last time out on May 19th when handy throughout. He only comes up 1kg in the weights and can sit just behind the speed and finish well. The main danger is (8) BLUE SKY. She too has just the one win, but she has finished in the top five on seven of nine occasions, including last time out when 3rd in a good time at this class and distance. In this company she can be expected to be on the speed, and she can win. The form drops off significantly after those two. (1) ACE HORANGI may be better for the drop back in trip, with (5) TAEWANG SINGI and (3) E CASH other possible improvers.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 10)

Saturday is Korean Derby Eve and there are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Who will succeed Winner Star as the Korean Derby winner on Sunday? (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

A race for new imports open to two-year-olds from the northern hemisphere and three-year-olds from the south.  Seven of the eight race for the first time. The probable favourite is (4) SPURT BIT. The Tiznow colt was an $80,000 purchase from last September’s Keeneland Yearling sale and enters as the only trial winner. He looked assured enough when settling behind the speed and running on in his heat, crossing the line in a fair time and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (5) ECLIPSE TOWN settled back in his trial but worked through the line well in a decent time. He looks to be the main danger to the favourite here. (8) ACE GUNJU similarly settled midfield and ran on well in his heat and can put in a bold first-up showing. (6) UWARYUNG and the only one with prior racing experience, (2) VICTORY HIT, are others to consider.

Selections(4) Spurt Bit (5) Eclipse Town (8) Ace Gunju (6) Uwaryung
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

A maiden for juvenile fillies with seven of the nine racing for the first time. And it is one of those two with a race in the books already who will be hot favourite. That’s (4) GEOLJAK ONE who after winning an April trial, ran well for 4th on debut over this journey on May 28th racing handy throughout in a very quick race on a very wet track. She should have come on for that run and with some natural improvement, she may take some beating here. Of the newcomers, (6) APPLE QUEEN was a trial winner, leading every step of the way. She should be on pace here and has every chance of being in front for a long time again. (7) FLYING STAR came from off the pace in her trial and worked home nicely. Look for her challenging at the business end here. (1) TAEPYEONG FIGHTER and the other experienced one, (5) CHEONHAENGCHAT are others who could go close.  

Selections(4) Geoljak One (6) Apple Queen (7) Flying Star (1) Taepyeong Fighter
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

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

Three-year-old maidens here with two of the eleven racing for the first time. A few look ready to win and we’ll side with (4) GHANA DREAM. After an inauspicious debut when she started slowly and got a long way back, she has recorded a 2nd and a 3rd, both over this distance and in fair times, settling midfield and running on. She has a strong finish on her and Moon Se-young climbing on could suggest that today is the day. The main danger is (6) MINT PLAY. She has two 3rd place finishes among her three starts so far including last time out on May 14th when she was ridden closer to the pace than previously. Expect her to be on pace again and she can go close. Among the two first-timers, (3) ALLBEST is the best. She was on pace in her trial, crossing the line 3rd in a decent time and from a good draw she can put in a bold first-up showing. Returning to experience, (1) WONDERFUL FOX and (7) SWITCH SONG are others who can improve.

Selections(4) Ghana Dream (6) Mint Play (3) Allbest (1) Wonderful Fox
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7

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

(3) CATS EYE will be a warm favourite here. He enters having led at class and distance on May 13th, ultimately finishing in 3rd place in a decent time. He draws nicely to be on pace again and in this company, he should be going all the way this time. (5) GWANGCHIGI comes up in class having won over 1300M on May 13th when handy throughout. He is nicely weight, draws well and can be a danger here. (2) LUCKY BOUNCE was a narrow winner at this distance at class 6 level two starts back before going quick early and then weakening on his first try at this level on April 2nd. He has had a couple of months off since so comes in fresh and Moon Se-young, who rode him to his win, returns to the ride. (1) AGAPANTHUS was 5th behind Cats Eye on May 13th. He won when he drew this gate and got on speed at class 6 level, and he can be given another chance here. (11) MEOTJIN GANGHO has the challenge of the widest gate but shouldn’t be overlooked.

Selections(3) Cats Eye (5) Gwangchigi (2) Lucky Bounce (1) Agapanthus
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 10

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

(8) MONEY JANGGUN has five to-three finishes from six outings to date without managing to get into the winner’s circle. That could change today though at a distance at which he has the quickest time of any of these and among a field where he has the fastest finish. He likes to settle back and run on and there is a danger he can leave himself too much to do, but if he can be positioned withing striking distance entering the home straight, he can make the breakthrough here. If he does find one too quick yet again, it might be (1) DAEHEUNG CLASS. Another non-winner, he comes up in class here after three good runs over this distance that yielded two 2nds and a 3rd. He comes down in weight, draws well, and can measure up at this level. (5) ACHIM DONGJA does have a win on the board and has run fairly in two subsequent outings at this class. He comes up to this distance for the first time and it can suit. Up in class (2) PEARL POINT along with (9) SEONGUN CROWN are others in at least the placing frame.

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Korean Oaks Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (June 4)

The Korean Oaks, the second leg of the Triple Tiara for three-year-old fillies, headlines Sunday’s action at Busan. See here for a full preview of the big race. There are 7 races at Busan from 11:25 to 17:05 as well as 10 at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00:

Golden Power won the 2022 Korean Oaks (Pic: KRA)

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

Maidens in the opener and (4) SOARA MEME will be a warm favourite. After an indifferent debut, she has a 2nd and a 3rd in two subsequent appearances both at this distance and showing versatility first by coming from off the pace and then by racing on the speed. She has the fastest time of any for the distance and will take some beating.  (6) NEW POINT was an improved 2nd on her second start on May 7th when stalking the lead throughout. She was well beaten by a good winner but with some more natural improvement here, she can be close again. (11) FIRST USER enters off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two and led in much of the latter in a quick race at this distance. The draw isn’t ideal but with a touch of luck at the start, she can be in this. (8) NAOL SKY and (1) DAEJANGBYEOL are the other logical place chances.

Selections(4) Soara Meme (6) New Point (11) First User (8) Naol Sky
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

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

(7) SONGAM DRAGON was 2nd in a desperately tight finish in a quick race over 1200M on April 29th, finishing very well and almost getting there. With the benefit of an apprentice claim again, she continues under a very light weight again and in this weak company she can go one better. The rest all need to show an uptick in form. (6) ONE SPEAR hinted at it last time when marginally improving. He has tended to get too far back in his races but did run on last time and posted a fair time over this distance. A similar run should see him in the places here. (1) TOUGH YEOJE isn’t quick, but she has placed in this kind of company before and from the inside gate, can do again here. (11) GOLDEN PEARL and (3) GOLDEN SNIPER among others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Songam Dragon (6) One Spear (1) Tough Yeoje (11) Golden Pearl
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 11

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

(4) MOVIE MORE took a couple of goes to figure things out but has run well for 2nd and 3rd from her latest two, both times racing on the speed over 1200M. She draws well to get to the front again and looks very much the one to beat. (6) GLOBAL SARANG has a 2nd and a 3rd on his resume too. He comes out of quite an ordinary race when 5th of eleven on April 21st when he was slowly away and settle back. He can finish well though and given more of a chance here, he can get closer. (5) NEOGA CHOEGO enters off back-to-back 4th place finishes, both at this distance. In this company, he can get a more prominent early position than usual and can be a danger. (1) HAPPY BRIANNA and (2) JEONGMUN LEGEND are others who can be considered to have enough improvement in them to place.

Selections(4) Movie More (6) Global Sarang (5) Neoga Choego (1) Happy Brianna
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 11

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

(4) AMAN BAROWS was a comfortable winner over 1200M on April 8th when settling midfield and running on. She comes up in class and slightly in distance today, but she comes down in the weights, and while she will need to go a bit quicker here, she still has potential for more improvement. (1) TIZ INDY was a winner at this distance at class 6 level in January, and while she took a couple of goes to find her feet at this level, she came back into form with a very solid 3rd place at class and distance on April 16th. She gets an inside gate for the first time since her win and that can put her closer to the pace and into the picture here. (8) KKANGDORI remains a maiden after twenty-seven attempts but today looks as good a chance as any to change that. She has two 2nd places from her latest three appearances and while she us up in the weights, that’s balanced with Johan climbing aboard. (9) DONGTEUJA WAY and (7) BICHUI DAERYUK other potentials.

Selections(4) Aman Barows (1) Tiz Indy (8) Kkangdori (9) Dongteuja Way
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

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

(5) UNJU OREUM has four top-five finishes from five starts so far and now looks ready to win. She comes in off a 3rd lace at 1200M when she led from the gate, and she also has the fastest time among these for the distance to the tune of nearly a whole second. She should be on or close to the pace here and can have too much. (9) DAEHO NARA too has been knocking on the door for a while. She likes to sit back and run from off the pace and while she has tended to leave herself a bit much to do, if she can be in striking distance in the home straight, she should go close. (1) DREAM RUN has started to hint at ability recently and was a close 4th last time out over this distance. She comes into a better gate today and a similar run will see her close. (3) ROCKS and (7) QUEEN ROMANCE are others to consider.

Selections(5) Unju Oreum (9) Daeho Nara (1) Dream Run (3) Rocks
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (8) HERO SARANG is the only one that enters here with a last start result of anything better than 8th, and that is enough for her to warrant favourite status. At her latest on May 7th, she was 4th at this distance when racing on pace. She has the best start of all of these so should get to the lead again and under a light weight, she can win. (2) FINAL JILJU was a winner over this distance at class 6 level in April but raced ungenerously on her first start at this level on May 14th to the extent she got sent back to trial. She came through that trail in good order and with a more mature run, she looks like the main danger. (4) GALSAEK HYANGGI has a habit of being slow away although she knows how to run on and did that to spectacular effect two starts back when a winner at this class over 1300M. Normal service was resumed at her latest but while she only beat a couple home, the margins weren’t big, and in this company, she should run past plenty late on. (6) MUSTANG CHARM and (1) GLOBAL PRIME other potentials for the minors.

Selections(8) Hero Sarang (2) Final Jilju (4) Galsaek Hyanggi (6) Mustang Charm
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 3)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Moon Se-young, Jang Chu-youl and Kim Yong-geun are suspended while Antonio Da Silva, Lim Gi-won, Choi Bum-hyun, Yoo Seung-wan, Park Eul-woon, Park Tae-jong, Lee Hyeok, Jo In-kwon and Lee Dong-ha are all in Busan to ride in Sunday’s Korean Oaks so Song Jae-chul, Johan Victoire and David Breux look to be the jockeys to follow. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Nine juveniles all make their racecourse debuts. The only trial winner among them is (1) THE PLAYER, who sat handy in his heat before running on well.  The time was fair and from a good gate he has solid chances and is the probable warm betting favourite. (6) MAGIC WITH YOU didn’t win his trial, but he did record the fastest time among these when showing prominently throughout and crossing the line 2nd. He should be on pace here and be in this a long way. (3) SMART CLAIR finished off his trial well having settled back in the field. That was a big improvement on an April heat when he failed to qualify and if he keeps on the same trajectory, he can go close first up here. (9) SEOUL DOLPUNG and (8) BAEKDU DAEMUL look the next best coming out of trials.

Selections(1) The Player (6) Magic With You (3) Smart Clair (9) Seoul Dolpung
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

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

Three-year-old maidens. After running 5th on debut, (9) SILVER PURGE was an improved 2nd at start number two on April 29th having raced much further forward. She comes into a wider gate here but should have enough about her early on to get on or close to the speed and she can win here. (1) MY THUNDER has been 3rd in both starts so far, both at this distance. Last time she overcame gate ten to sit handy and with a much better draw this time, she can get closer. She will probably start as favourite. (2) MENI CHARM was ordinary on his latest effort on April 30th when 7th of ten but the time before he was a very close 2nd at this distance in a fair time when stalking the lead throughout. On that performance, he warrants a chance here. (7) SEONGSIL TAEYANG and (10) GEOSEON CHAMP are among others to consider.

Selections(9) Silver Purge (1) My Thunder (2) Meni Charm (7) Seongsil Taeyang
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden with just one colt alongside nine fillies and a mare. (1) RED TAEPUNG Is the one to beat based on her last start 2nd over 1400M on April 30th when she settled at the front of midfield and finishing off well for a narrow defeat. She has run fairly at this distance as well and from the inside gate, her jockey can pick his spot. The solitary colt, (3) GRAND SILVER comes in off an improved 3rd at start number four over 1200M on April 2nd. He has also run a decent time over this distance, albeit on a wet track, and from a good draw, he should be going close again. (7) SEUNGNI GONGJU has shown improvement across her three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place over 1200M on May 7th when finishing off well. The step back up to 1300M can suit today. (10) CHALLANHAN BULKKOT and (4) QUEEN TOP among others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Red Taepung (3) Grand Silver (7) Seungni Gongju (10) Challanhan Bulkkot
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start6, 9, 10, 11

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

(8) SUNGAN TOUCH enters with recent form reading well, including a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, both at this class and distance and both in quick times. In this company he should be able to get on or close to the speed and he can return to winning ways here. (6) TOUR QUEEN shapes as the main danger. Her win came at 1000M but at her last start, she was an on-pace runner-up over 1400M. She only comes up 1kg in the weights, she draws nicely, and she can be challenging Sungan Touch right from the start. (11) DALMAJI and (9) WONPYEONG CHUKJE both come up in class having finished 1st and 2nd with a length between them when they race each other over this distance at class 6 level on May 7th. Both will need to go a bit quicker this time, but both come down significantly in the weights and could measure up. (10) CHEONDUNGSEJA another in the frame.

Selections(8) Sungan Touch (6) Tour Queen (11) Dalmaji (9) Wonpyeong Chukje
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 10

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

(2) YEONGWON FIGHTER will be one of the shortest priced favourites of the day. He won on debut at class 6 level in February before running 2nd over this distance on his first try at this class on April 22nd when he led for much of the way around before being beaten two-lengths by Jangsan Spo, who has since won at class 4 level. He draws well here, and it would be a surprise if anything caught him this time. Clear second choice is (9) ARGO TAP. While still winless, he has seven top-five finishes from eight starts and was a close 4th from a wide draw in a good time at this distance last time out. He is probably going to find one too quick here again, but it could just be the one. (6) BEST CLONE is also winless but comes up in class following a pair of close runner-up finishes at this distance. His times have been good, and he can be on pace here and in this a long way. (7) GREEN SHIELD and the up in class last start winner (1) SEOUL SPURT are others likely to attract support.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 28)

Sunday’s racing is at both Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:50 to 16:30). No Stakes races but plenty to get stuck into. The forecast is for rain throughout the weekend so if you’re coming bring an umbrella and if you’re playing be sure to check out the wet track form:

Ranut bis for four in a row in Seoul Race 7 (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

The capital’s first juvenile race of the year so all eleven are racing for the first time. (3) HANGANG CROWN was the standout in trials, leading her heat all the way around and stopping the clock in the quickest time. She draws nicely and she will be favourite. (7) GEOLJAK ONE and (2) YONGAM SESANG also won their respective heats and in identical times. Geoljak One perhaps had the slightly easier time of it and of the two is marginally preferred. (11) ECLIPSE BERRY didn’t win her trial, but she ran well, crossing the line 2nd behind an experienced older horse and without being pushed too much. Moon Se-young’s appointment will lead plenty to come down on her side. Going on times, (8) JANGGUN GARAM is another who has a chance first-up although as we saw in Busan’s equivalent race on Friday, a lot can happen between trial and debut.

Selections(3) Hangang Crown (7) Geoljak One (2) Yongam Sesang (11) Eclipse Berry
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

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

Three-year-old maidens here. (9) DAONDI has finished 5th in both starts so far but did show some improvement in the most recent of them. He has run through the line strongly enough and with a little more improvement may have winning claims here. (4) BIG BLED has shown progress across her three starts culminating with her 3rd place at this distance at her latest on April 9th. Her times haven’t been impressive but, in this company, she could well get to the front, and she won’t need to be much quicker to go very close here. (6) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK made little impression from a wide draw last time out but if we go on his 4th place at this distance two starts back, he warrants consideration. In a race this weak the debut-makers must be examined. (7) SEONGEUN RISING won her trial and while the time wasn’t fast, that’s enough to give her a chance. (1) STEALTH PARK another who may improve.

Selections(9) Daondi (4) Big Bled (6) Sidaeui Myeongjak (7) Seongeun Rising
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

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

Quite a good-looking maiden with plenty looking as though they have a win in them. (4) CLAIR QUEEN is one of them. She comes in off her best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on April 22nd when ridden more forward than she had been previously. From a good draw similar tactics can be expected today, and she can go one better. (5) SSEULMO has seemingly figured things out in his latest two, with a 3rd and a 2nd. Both times he led until the closing stages, and he seems sure to be on pace and in this a long way again. (3) RAON JUMP has the fastest time among these for the distance, achieved when 5th last time out on April 29th when the track was producing some quick races. She has tended to leave herself too much to do but should be finishing off well and can run into a place. (8) MAGUMA is another who will be doing his best work late on and he already has a 2nd place to his name. Solitary debut-maker (7) COSMO RUN improved in his second trial when he ran 2nd behind a class 1 horse. If he brings that form to the races, he can go well first-up.

Selections(4) Clair Queen (5) Sseulmo (3) Raon Jump (8) Maguma
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

Having bolted up in a February trial, (9) KALJABI was sent off as favourite on debut on March 5th. He showed towards the front but ultimately finished 4th. He should have come on for that experience and after a further twelve-weeks off, he can be given another chance. The main danger is in the adjoining gate. (10) ROSE BLADE was also well backed on debut on April 30th following a promising trial, and he delivered with a good 3rd place over this distance, settling just forward of midfield and running on. He should have derived benefit from the run and can go closer here. (5) WAITING FOR YOU did little in her first two outings but was an improved 3rd in her latest on April 21st when racing handy throughout. That will probably be enough to make her third-favourite here. (1) SUCCESS FRONT and (4) HAENGBOK CHUKJE the most likely among the rest to improve.

Selections(9) Kaljabi (10) Rose Blade (5) Waiting For You (1) Success Front
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

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

(2) MAUIWAY got his win when practically making all over 1200M in January. Since then, he has raced twice at this level running 5th and most recently 3rd, both times having settled back in the pack. He has a nice draw here and can sit behind the early speed and run on. (6) FIJI BLADE is still a maiden but comes up in class having finished as runner-up in both her starts so far, both at 1200M. She comes down in the weights and should be on pace and while she may find one too quick again, she can certainly measure up in this company. (4) SAENAE KHAN got his maiden win at this distance at class 6 level in February. He has two 4th places in two goes at this level and should be in at least the placing mix again. (7) CLUB D and (3) SUPREME STAR are others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Mauiway (6) Fiji Blade (4) Saenae Khan (7) Club D
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 10

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

(3) FANTASTIC CHAMP debuted last May but wasn’t seen again until March when he got his maiden win at this distance. He went up to 1300M for his first try at class 5 on April 28th and while he showed prominently, he ultimately finished 5th. Third-up this preparation he may well be at peak fitness and back at 1200M he can win this. (9) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT is yet to win in twelve attempts but ran well for his fourth runner-up finish at class and distance on April 14th when close to the pace throughout. At the start before he came from off the pace to dead-heat for 3rd so he is versatile, and he can be a danger here. (4) TAEYANG EUTTEUM has the fastest time of any of these at the distance, record when 3rd – a long way behind a good winner – on May 5th. She remains lightly weighted and merits at least a place chance. (1) GOLD ROSE and the returning (6) WORLD FIVE, are other potentials.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 26)

It’s a rare Stakes-free weekend but there is still plenty to keep punters occupied. Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews :

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (1) NAOL ROONEY was a solid 4th on debut at this distance on April 23rd, racing in pace throughout. She draws well to be on the pace again and with some natural improvement from that run, she can win. (6) WONPYEONG KINGDOM shapes as the main danger. He’s run 3rd in both starts so far, both times on pace and at 1300M and 1200M. He too will be challenging for the early lead and any top=three finish will see him up to class 5 next time. It could be a win. Another one likely to be at the front early is (5) BULGEUN POKPUNG. His best so far was his 3rd place on debut at 1000M, but he led for a long way last time before being passed by a few for 6th. He can be in this for longer this time. There are three debut-makers and with the exposed form dropping off, they can be considered. Taking into account their trials and draw, (2) LAFEYETTE and (4) GLOBAL CHUKBAE have the best chance of making an immediate impression.

Selections(1) Naol Rooney (6) Wonpyeong Kingdom (5) Bulgeun Pokpung (2) Lafeyette
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens. (4) THEME TANSAENG ran a good 2nd two starts back, well behind a decent winner but in a decent time over 1200M. He had a hard time finding position from a wide draw on his latest, but he comes into a better gate here and should get an easier run to the lead. Moon Se-young stays aboard, and he is the one to beat. (7) WORLD FASHION has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes, settling back each tome and running on. He lay in ungenerously last time out to the extent that he was ordered back to trial, but he came through his heat in good order and with a more mature run, can go close again. (10) PURPLE WINK won a March trial before finishing a fair 4th on debut at 1200M on April 15th, running on well. He should have come on for the run and the way he finished off suggests the additional half furlong can suit. (9) HAENGUN BARAM and (8) LEMON BLADE among others in the frame.

Selections(4) Theme Tansaeng (7) World Fashion (10) Purple Wink (9) Haengun Baram
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 11

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

A regular maiden here and (9) FINAL CHUKJE looks set to be a warm favourite. He has five top-five finishes from six starts and his most recent outing was his best when 2nd over this distance on March 25th when he posted the fastest time of any of these over 1400M. The one downside is the draw is perhaps a little wider then ideal, but he has a long back straight to overcome that and he can win. (5) EXPECT stepped up to this trop on April 30th and produced his best performance to date when 3rd having raced handy. He’ll be on or near the speed here and can be a danger. (3) SAVANA CHARLIE was 4th in that same race. That was the fourth time in six starts that he has finished in that position, and he should be at least matching that here. (10) UDDUG and (1) HANGANG POWER among others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Final Chukje (5) Expect (3) Savana Charlie (10) Uddug
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

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

(6) DALGEUM has five top-three finishes from seven starts so far including her latest two, a 2nd and a 3rd both at this class and distance. She has been on pace in those two and probably will be again and this time she can make the breakthrough. (5) WORLD KING MAN was 5th to Dalgeum’s 2nd when they raced one another on March 26th. He subsequently dropped back to 1300M and beat a couple of these on his way to 4th place on April 22nd. His style has been to drop back and then run on and he can be a danger in the closing stages here. (3) STAR K was a slightly unexpected winner on April 9th, coming from well back to score over 1300M. He comes up in class here, but the distance should suit, and he could have more improvement in him at what will be an each-way price. (8) YEONGCHEON JISANG and (9) POWER DOLPUNG among others with placing chances.

Selections(6) Dalgeum (5) World King Man (3) Star K (8) Yeongcheon Jisang
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start6, 7, 9, 10

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

A very competitive race. (8) HWANGWOO CHOEGANG is the likely favourite. She got her maiden win at start number two over this distance on April 1st and then ran a fair 4th on her first try at this class on April 29th in what was a very quick race on a wet track. She comes in under the same light weight and she can sit behind the speed and run on. (1) GANGHAN QUEEN was a good 3rd on her most recent outing on April 16th when she led for much of the way. She’ll be on or close to the pace again and can be in this a long way. (2) GLOBAL CHANGA weakened having led over this distance on March 12th. That was her first start since she ran 5th of ten in a Listed juvenile race last November and while she has had a further eleven weeks off since, she should strip fitter here and will have backers. The up in class pair of (11) BARAMUI HYANGGI and (7) GEOLJAK TOUR are others to consider.

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YTN Cup Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 21)

The YTN Cup, the second leg of the Stayer Series is the headline race on Sunday. See here for a fuller preview. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here’s the race-by-race:

Winner’s Man won the 1st leg of the Stayer Series (Pic: KRA)

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

(9) RAON HOLIDAY was a much-improved 3rd at start number four on April 15th, finishing 2nd in a quick time. He raced on the speed for the first time and while he draws wider this time, expect similar tactics today, and he can go one better. (8) CANDY GLOW will be challenging him for the lead. He enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at this trip and both in good times. She’ll surely be in this a long way. (3) BURUI JILJU returned from nine months out to run 2nd over 1700M on March 26th, sitting handy throughout. That was a big effort first-up, but he’s had eight weeks off since and he will be expected to go close here. (11) NEMO SPIRIT and (1) FINE DAY are other potential improvers.

Selections(9) Raon Holiday (8) Candy Glow (3) Burui Jilju (11) Nemo Spirit
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

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

Not the strongest of maidens and that will make (10) SEONGSIL INDONG a warm favourite. She steps up marginally in trip for the first time following three fair efforts over 1200M when she has run on well each time. Moon Se-young climbs on board today and it will be no surprise if they win. (2) TRES VITE on the other hand comes back in trip after a couple of spins around 1700M including a last start 4th on March 26th when coming from off the pace. He draws well here and should be competitive. (4) WONDERFUL FOX has shown slight but noticeable improvement over her three outings culminating in 5th place last time over this trip. Her times haven’t been quick but if she continues to get better the same rate, then she will merit at least a place chance here. (6) EURO GANGJA and (1) GEOMOON others in the minor money frame.

Selections(10) Seongsil Indong (2) Tres Vite (4) Wonderful Fox (6) Euro Gangja
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

No fewer than five of the twelve are up in class last stat winners. We’ll side with (10) K N GOLDEN KING. With a 3rd and a 2nd from his first two starts, it was no surprise when he duly obliged when favourite over 1200M on April 8th. He made all that day so he does have the challenge of a wider draw, but he also comes up in trip so has an additional 100-metres to the turn and that could be enough for Moon Se-young to find his desired position. (6) FLYING LIGHT won on debut and while he took a couple of goes to figure things out at this class, he comes in off a strong class and distance 2nd on April 16th, well beaten by a good winner, but a strong performance, nonetheless. He draws well to sit handy or race on pace and a repeat will put him in the finish again. Returning to the up in class ones, (5) HWANGGEUMKKOT and (4) MIR POINT look the most likely to measure up. (8) WALGADAK another of those with experience at this level who can go close in what is a very competitive race.  

Selections(10) K N Golden King (6) Flying Light (5) Hwanggeumkkot (4) Mir Point
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

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

A very competitive maiden to open proceedings on the south coast and it’s hard to be confident about much of the form. The one thing is clear is that (4) VELOCIRAPTOR has the fastest time for the distance among these, recorded three starts back when 3rd, and that is enough to give him a chance here. He didn’t go well over a mile last time but back to 1300M and from a good gate, he has as much chance as any. (5) TOO CUTE GIRL and (9) HAMA come sin having run 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced one another at this distance on April 16th. There wasn’t much to choose between them that day – it was for both their best performance so far – and with them both carrying the same weight, we’ll side with Too Cute Girl by virtue of having the better gate. (2) MIRACULUM and (11) VERLUC are other possibles for the minors.

Selections(4) Velociraptor (5) Too Cute Girl (9) Hama (2) Miraculum
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (1) BURUI KKOT is yet to win from twelve attempts but has no eleven top five finishes including four as runner up. She comes back in trip after several near misses at 1300M, she has the plum inside gate, which should get her on to the speed with a minimal amount of fuss and an apprentice jockey takes her weight down. This could be her day. The main danger is (8) TROT QUEEN. She was 5th to Burui Kkot’s4th with little between them when they raced one another over 1300M on April 8th. She too is yet to win but has good times at this distance and she will be running on strong late. (5) WONPYEONG GWANGYA comes back in trip after weakening late on over 1300M in her latest two. From a good gate and under a light weight, she can be on pace and in this a long way. (10) GOLDEN LUCKY and (3) HONEY PUNCH, the latter who can have her latest outing forgiven as she was first up following a lengthy absence, are others to consider.

Selections(1) Burui Kkot (8) Trot Queen (5) Wonpyeong Gwangya (10) Golden Lucky
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

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

(2) HANEUL MISO remains a maiden following thirteen starts but enters with her recent form at class and distance reading very well. She has been back to trial since her latest 3rd place on April 16th and se won her heat in fine fashion three weeks ago. She draws well here, carries a very light weight, and today can be her day. (7) DOCTOR CUCKOO is up in class having secured his maiden win on April 28th when stalking the lead early before taking things up turning into the straight and going on to win by however many he please. This is tougher but the manner of that victory suggests there is more to come, and he shouldn’t be dismissed. (8) SEOGWI CHUKJE is another maiden, but she comes in following three consecutive runner-up finishes at this class, two of them at today’s distance. Among them was the fastest time for any of these over the 1200M and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (6) B.K. GALLOP and (1) CHEONGMA POWER others in the placing frame.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 20)

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

Winner’s Man will be in town on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener with four of the eleven racing for the first time. There are two stand outs, and the better draw means the nod goes to (2) MR QUALITY. His best was his 2nd on debut but he has run fairly in both starts since and both were from wide gates. He should get a much easier early run today and he can win. (11) TAMRA CHOEGANGJA is the main danger. He’s shown good progress across his three appearances so far, culminating in a 3rd place over this distance on April 15th. He has finished off his races well and while he may need a touch of luck from the barrier, he will have plenty of backers. (7) AUSTIN LEADER ran fairly for a midfield finish on debut over this distance in February, having previously shown some speed in his trial. He returns fourteen weeks later and better will be expected. (5) POWERFUL VISION looks the best of the first-time starters, while (8) PEARL POINT is another who can improve.

Selections(2) Mr Quality (11) Tamra Choegangja (7) Austin Leader (5) Powerful Vision
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 10

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

(4) TI AMO looks the one to beat here. She has two 3rd places among four starts so far including her latest on April 22nd when she overcame gate ten to lead until the closing stages. She comes into a better gate today and this time can lead all the way. (8) TOUGH YEOJE has some fair efforts on her resume including a 4th place last time out over this distance. She can settle behind the speed here and should be pressing late. (10) SECRET WANGJA has the fastest time among these for the distance. He comes back in trip after a couple of recent spins at 1300M and he is a another who can challenge in the closing stages. (9) APEX and (6) WONDERFUL RULES are among others with placing claims.

Selections(4) Ti Amo (8) Tough Yeoje (10) Secret Wangja (9) Apex
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens. (11) RAON THE COBRA raced twice las summer for a 4th (dead-heated) and 3rd at 1000M and 1200M. He hasn’t raced since September 4th so returns for the first time in thirty-seven weeks, but he looked well enough when crossing the line midfield in a trial which wasn’t fast but where the field pretty much all come home together at the end of April. He’ll need this but a bold showing first-up is a possibility. (9) EUNBIT DOLPUNG has shown steady progress across three starts so far, with a close 2nd in her latest over 1200M on April 22nd when making ground late. She comes back up to 1300M here, the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue, and she has a big chance. (8) MENI POCKET has three top-four finishes among four outings to date including a runner-up finish at this distance. Expect her to be on pace here and in this a long way. (6) SINUI YEOIN beat three of these on her way to 2nd place on April 9th. She was sent off at big odds and it was a big improvement, but third-up this preparation, she may be peaking fitness wise and can go close again. (7) MADE STAR, one of those behind Sinui Yeoin in that race, is another in the minor money hunt.

Selections(11) Raon The Cobra (9) Eunbit Dolpung (8) Meni Pocket (6) Sinui Yeoin
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

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

(6) HEY CUPID debuted inauspiciously last October but then returned on April 22nd to make all for a comfortable win over 1200M. He was gelded during the layoff and the win wasn’t unexpected after he dominated a March trial. He comes up in class and slightly in distance here, but he is very much the one to beat. (5) G STAR shook off a run of middling form to run 2nd at class and distance on April 15th when ridden on pace for the first time in a while. He comes up 2.5kg here but with similar tactics, can be considered. (10) HANGANG HERO is yet to win in fifteen attempts but enters off a third runner-up finish on April 9th when settling midfield and running on. She may find a couple too quick again but may make for some each-way interest. (9) PEERLESS and (8) ARCH MEMORY others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(6) Hey Cupid (5) G Star (10) Hangang Hero (9) Peerless
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start5, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(8) EUREKA was a winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 3rd on his first try at this class, again over the 1700M, on April 23rd. He has run well from the front and from settling back and while his time may need to be a bit quicker, he has every chance here. (6) THUNDER HORSE was dropped back to 1200M last start but quickly got caught in kickback and by the time he found a clear run in the home straight the race was over. He has solid form over this trip though and should be far happier back up at two turns. (1) BITNANEUN JILJU and (5) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE came home 4th and 6th when they raced one another at class and distance on April 24th. Both are recent winners at the distance, and both should be competitive again here. (7) ROSE GOLD another to keep safe.

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SBS Sports Sprint, Ttukseom Cup & Exchange Race Sunday – Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (May 14)

It’s Ttukseom Cup and SBS Sports Sprint day at Seoul on Sunday. See here for full preview of the two races. There are also six reciprocal Trophy Exchange races. Busan hosts Trophies for OSAF (South America), the Jockey Club of Turkey and the Selangor Turf Club. At Seoul there are Trophies in honour of the Royal Western India Turf Club, the China Horse Industry Association and Tokyo City Keiba. 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:

Raon First and Choi Bum-hyun will aim to defend the Ttukseom Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Competitive maiden to open with. (10) DAEHEUNG CLASS enters in off his two best performances so far, a 2nd and a 3rd both over this distance when settling back and running on. His style is such that he doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw isn’t a problem and he should be finishing off well. (2) ARGO MUJEOK also comes in following his best performance to date, when 2nd at 1200M on April 16th when handy throughout. He steps up to this distance for the first time and from a good draw, it may well suit. (1) MIGHTY ANN returned from almost six months out to run 3rd over 1200M on April 8th. She should strip fitter for that run and can match or better it here. (9) WONPYEONG SKY and (11) LAST PITCH are among plenty of others with minor money hopes.

Selections(10) Daeheung Class (2) Argo Mujeok (1) Mighty Ann (9) Wonpyeong Sky
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

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

Three-year-old maidens and not an especially strong race. Despite the wide draw, we’ll side with (11) HAENGUN BARAM, who after a return to trial after an inauspicious February debut, was much better on April 8h when running 2nd at this distance and with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She settled midfield and finished well and while the time wasn’t quick, it was faster than any of the others here have managed. (3) NAOL DAEWANG likewise wasn’t exactly a speedster when 3rd on debut over this distance on April 9th. He was slowly away but finished well and with some natural improvement, can be in this. (10) DAMJAENGI ARGO was 4th behind Haeungun Baram on April 8th, her second 4th place in a row. She draws wide but with a bit of luck can get a forward or handy position which will put her in the hunt. (5) MILLION PARTY and (2) HEART K are others to consider.

Selections(11) Haengun Baram (3) Naol Daewang (10) Damjaengi Argo (5) Million Party
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

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

Another maiden and (7) LEGEND SOCKS will be favourite. Since returning from eleven months off, he has two 3rd places and a 2nd from three starts back, all at this class and distance and each time racing handy. He’ll be close to the speed again and this time should be going one better. (5) GRAND POWER remains a maiden after fifteen attempts but has four runner-up finishes, including at this class over 1400M two starts back. The drop back in trip may suit here and he should be on pace and in this a long way. (8) MAGLE DAY got his maiden win three starts back at 1300M and has since finished 5th in two tries at this class. He too comes back slightly in trip and should be a factor. (11) FINAL JILJU comes up in class after a maiden win at this distance on April 15th. The time was good, and he can measure up in this company. (3) LEGEND K was never a factor in his latest but has won at the distance and can be given another chance.

Selections(7) Legend Socks (5) Grand Power (8) Magle Day (11) Final Jilju
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

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

(7) GIJEOGUI GEUMBIT shapes as a warm favourite here. That’s based on her latest outing which was also her best when 3rd over 1200M on April 23rd. She has raced at this distance before too, posting a time quicker than any of the others have achieved and she won’t need to improve very much to win here. (1) DIA SPIRIT has left himself far too much to do in his races so far but rattled home well for 3rd over 1200M on April 7th. He gets his best draw since his debut; an apprentice keeps the weight down and the extra half furlong can work in his favour. (10) ECTON POWER is yet to finish in the top two in twenty-eight starts. He has though picked up plenty of minor checks including a 4th place last time out when finishing well at 1200M. He should be matching or bettering that here. (6) KELLY QUEEN and (3) RUNNING FASHION others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Gijeogui Geumbit (1) Dia Spirit (10) Ecton Power (6) Kelly Queen
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1200M) Special Weight A / Royal Western India Turf Club Trophy / KRW 150 Million

The first of a lot of trophy races today, this one equivalent to class 3. It’s a tricky puzzle. (7) WOLF PLAY has won two of his latest three with defeat sandwiched between those wins being in the Sports Seoul Classic Trial. His latest was at this distance at class 4 level in a quick time on April 15th and while this is undoubtedly harder, he comes down in the weights and can measure up. (5) YELLOW CAT has eight top-three finishes from ten starts. Most recently she was 2nd over 1400M at class 3 level coming from off the pace but she has won at this distance and from a good draw should be very dangerous. (1) TAP QUALITY carries his fair share of weight here but he is a front runner who is coming back in trip and into a very good gate.  Ultra-consistent, he won’t be far away. (8) FARCIARZ and (3) SAENAE QUEEN among plenty of others who enter in good form and who can have a say.

Selections(7) Wolf Play (5) Yellow Cat (1) Tap Quality (8) Farciarz
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1600M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(8) TOP FRIEND beat four of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place at class and distance on April 7th when overcoming the widest gate to settle back in the field and then finish strongly. He carries the same weight today but comes into a slightly better barrier, and after three runner-up finishes, he can make the breakthrough at start number eight. (9) HWANGWOO MONEY was 3rd in that race, a length-and-a-half behind Top Friend having led for much of the way. His draw isn’t as good today, but he still looks to be the main danger. (4) ETTEUMI was 5th that day having been slowly away from a wide draw and finding it hard to get a good position. His draw is better today, and he should get closer. (10) WONDERFUL BOBCAT and (2) NOBLE COWBOY are other possibles.

Selections(8) Top Friend (9) Hwangwoo Money (4) Etteumi (10) Wonderful Bobcat
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1600M) Special Weight A / China Horse Industry Association Trophy / KRW 150 Million

This Trophy race is at class 2 level and has attracted the maximum safe field size of ten for the mile start. (6) SPOT FLATTER ran out a very good winner over this distance at class 2 on March 19th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. That was his first start back following an eight-month absence and he was at a big price. He will be much shorter today but can win again. (2) BEST LUCKY was 3rd in that race having settled midfield and run on. Like Spot Flatter, the set weight scale does him no favours, but he won under 56kg at class 3 level over this distance two starts back and from a nice draw can go close. (4) RAON BEAT came home 4th in that March 19th race having been slow away and settling right back. He has the fastest time in the field for the distance. The ultra consistent (9) YONGAM BOSS, as well as (7) ACE HAMSEONG are among those who didn’t go in the March 19th race who can enter the calculations.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 14)

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

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

Three-year-old maidens with two colts and nine fillies and five of them racing for the first time. One of these first timers will be the favourite. (5) LOVE COWGIRL (who for the benefit of those smirking in the back, is by Cowboy Cal and out of Love Minister) fairly bolted up in her trial, leading all the way and crossing the lengths fifteen-lengths clear of the rest. That was back in February, and it is fair to say that those she beat have not exactly caught the eye since, but the time speaks for itself and while it has been two and a half months, she will be eagerly anticipated here. Of the experienced ones, (9) GOLDEN FLYING is the only one to have placed. That was on her improved latest start when 3rd over this distance back in January. She’s been off fifteen weeks but should aim to match or better that in this company. (10) BARO CHAMPION looks to be close to figuring things out too with a 5th and a 4th from her latest two. She too won’t need to improve much to go close. (3) KING GO TAEYANG and (1) MUNHAK EAGLE are other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Love Cowgirl (9) Golden Flying (10) Baro Champion (3) King Go Taeyang
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

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

A regular maiden here. (4) HIGH BORN ME shapes as the one to beat following back-to-back 3rd place finishes from his latest two starts at 1300M and this trip. From a kind draw, he can sit just behind the speed and may prove too strong. (11) JANGHEUNG CLASS has shown improvement in his latest two, including a 2nd place over this distance last time out on April 23rd. He raced handy that day and while he does have the challenge of the widest gate, with a bit of luck at the start, he can go close. (5) JEONGSANG LUCKY came back to this trip and back into some kind of form on April 16th when close to the pace all the way for 3rd place. Kim Hye-sun, in town for Sunday’s group races, takes the mount and she should be a danger. (2) MY ONE and (7) BEST PLAN, the latter with the fastest time of any at the distance, are others to keep safe.

Selections(4) High Born Me (11) Jangheung Class (5) Jeongsang Lucky (2) My One
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

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

Back to three-year-old maidens, with three of the eleven racing for the first time. (4) CHEONJI SKY improved at start number two on March 11th when 3rd over this distance when settling midfield and running on. In this company and from this gate, he can be on pace here and has as good a chance as any. (2) PURPLE SHINHWA ran fairly for 5th on debut at this distance on April 9th when racing on the speed. He should have some natural improvement for that run and from a very nice draw, could get a soft lead. He’ll be in this a long way. (3) SHARP SUNSHINE has shown some progress in her latest two most recently when 4th of eleven on April 16th. In the process she set a time for the 1200M quicker than any of the others here have achieved and that alone puts her in the frame. (7) GEUMSEONG REVERE and (10) CUPID CHIC, who came home 3rd and 4th when racing one another last time out on April 1st, are others who can enter the calculations. 

Selections(4) Cheonji Sky (2) Purple Shinhwa (3) Sharp Sunshine (7) Geumseong Revere
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

(11) FLY DAY will be a hot favourite. He enters off his best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on April 15th, having settled back and run on. That was his fourth start and his second in the places so any top-three finish will see him up at class 5 next time. He has the fastest final furlong average time but with there not being much early speed in this race, we may see him close to the pace than usual and he should prove too strong.  (6) CUPID CHAMP also has two top-three finishes and while he has seemingly lost his way in his most recent two, again in this company he can be ridden on pace and may see his fortunes take a turn for the better. (3) FEDERAL PRESS has hinted at ability across four starts so far with a best of 5th. He has finished off his races well enough so the slight raise in trip can suit. (1) DIVINE PYEONGHWA and (9) GWANGCHIGI other potential minor money hopes in afield with not much depth.

Selections(11) Fly Day (6) Cupid Champ (3) Federal Press (1) Divine Pyeonghwa
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

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

Competitive race featuring four last start winners. We’ll side with the up in class (7) HAEUNDAE GALMAEGI who got her maiden win at start number three over 1200M on April 16th leading every step of the way. She had previously run well at 1300M so the rise in trip may not be an issue, and she can make it two in a row. (1) DAERYUN SIDAE also comes up in class, in her case following her maiden score at start number six.  On April 15th when leading all the way. She comes up in trip but into a nice gate and is down in the weights. On the same day, (10) BEST JEONSA finally made his breakthrough at start fourteen. Unlike the other last start winners, it was at this class and distance and while he comes up 3.5kg in the weights, a repeat can’t be ruled out. (4) STAND BY ME, up in class and slightly in trip, is next best along with (9) BULUI NALGAE.

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