Seoul

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 13)

There are daytime cards at both Seoul (10 races from 11:35 to 19:00) and Busan (7 races from 12:40 to 18:00). Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with a debut maker, and it wasn’t so much the time but the way (5) SPEED ONE completed his heat that puts him on top. Coming out of gate nine he sat handy and then ran on under a hold getting better with every stride. If he can show that kind of maturity at the races and when asked for an effort, he can win. (6) KNIGHT CHARM was asked for more in his trial in dreadful conditions in July. He responded nicely and ran on to cross the line with plenty in hand. He too can be considered first-up. Experience can count for plenty though. (9) MIRAE TOWER came from off the pace to run on for 4th over this distance on July 15th. He should have come on for that and with a better start can get closer today. (1) NICE TAEYANG and (8) HAMPYEONG JANGMI the other pair who can improve on their respective debuts.

Selections(5) Speed One (6) Knight Charm (9) Mirae Tower (1) Nice Taeyang
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 11

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

(4) MOON DUST looks to be finally getting things together with a pair of 3rd place finishes from her latest two, both at this distance and both times racing on pace. She draws nicely to get an easy early run here and she will be the one the need to beat. It’s not a strong race and that means we can give the solitary newcomer, (6) DAERYUN BULPAE, a chance. He trialled up a few times as a juvenile but never came anywhere close to qualifying before being put away for several months. He came back into training in June and looked much more assured when running 3rd in a fair time in a July trial. Don’t rule out a bold showing first-up. (8) FINE DAY has a 3rd and a 4th among her five efforts so far and should be in the mix here. (7) JEONGSANG HIT and (10) BINNANEUN GEUMSEONG among others who can compete for the money in this modest contest.

Selections(4) Moon Dust (6) Daeryun Bulpae (8) Fine Day (7) Jeongsang Hit
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 11

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

Juvenile maidens with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) GEUMA DISTINCTION will be a warm favourite. The Kim Young-kwan trainee went through two trials, crossing the line 3rd in both, both in quick times. He can settle just off the pace here and if he brings the trial form to the races, he will be hard to beat. (5) SINCHEON FIRST won a June trial before racing on pace in debut on July 7th and ultimately running 4th in a good time over this distance. He should have benefited for the experience and can go closer here. Returning to the first-timers, (2) HWANGGEUMSEONG led every step of the way to win his trial in a good time on a wet track. He draws nicely, Seo Seung-un partners, and there is plenty to like about him. (1) CHRIS MORE and (7) LIGHT BROWN others who could put in a bold showing first-up.

Selections(9) Geuma Distinction (5) Sincheon First (2) Hwanggeumseong (1) Chris More
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

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

A weak but very tricky race to predict. We’ll take a chance on (2) GOLDEN SNIPER, who ran 2nd two starts back over this trip, settling handy and nearly getting there. He followed up with a 5th place on his latest appearance on July 9th when on pace throughout and from a good gate, today could be his day. (8) POWERFUL VISION ran an improved 5th at start number two over 1300M when on pace throughout. She can be expected to show at the front early again and should once more be in this a long way. (5) SHARP SUNSHINE has shown signs of figuring things out, finishing in the top four in each of her latest four appearances. Her times haven’t been quick, but she finishes off her races well and can grind out another decent placing here. (7) SINUI HAMSEONG and (4) BEST PLAN, others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(2) Golden Sniper (8) Powerful Vision (5) Sharp Sunshine (7) Sinui Hamseong
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

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

(9) WONDERFUL ONE has shown improvement across three starts so far, culminating in 3rd place over this distance on July 9th when handy throughout and beating a couple of today’s rivals. Without an apprentice claim today, he does come up 3kg in the weights, but that’s balanced by Franco climbing aboard, and he can win. (7) YONGSAN KEUNBYEOL was 4th in that July 9th race, continuing a positive start to his career. He has almost two-lengths to find on Wonderful One, but he gets a weight swing and should be challenging the favourite for the lead from the start. (1) WONDERFUL SMARTY is a thirty-six-race maiden but comes in following her first ever second-place finish over this distance on June 16th. She is another who doesn’t have an apprentice claim this time, but she has a good draw, and a repeat of that run will put her in the finish. (6) BLUE CAVIAR and (5) HANEUL BULPAE other placing chances.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 12)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with a twilight meeting consisting of 10 races from 14:45 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with all eleven racing for the first time. Conveniently for us, five of them come out of the same trial on July 14th which was won – and won well – by (10) SPECIAL FORCE, who was quickly into the lead and crossed the line three-lengths to the good in a fair time. If she brings that form to the races, she will take some beating. We’ll return to that heat in a moment. (6) GEOLJAK SKY failed to qualify the first time around but looked much better in a second attempt in early July, running on pace and crossing the line in front in a good time. She draws better than Special Force and should be challenging from the start again. (1) BLUE LEMON was 2nd in the July 14th trial settling handy and running on. She has those three-lengths to make up on Special Force but draws nicely and shouldn’t be far away. (3) LOVE MUNMAK was a further length and three-quarters back in 4th in that trial coming from off the pace but worked him pleasingly enough to consider. (4) ORION ALPHA another who hinted ay ability in her heat.

Selections(10) Special Force (6) Geoljak Sky (1) Blue Lemon (3) Love Munmak
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start5, 6, 10, 11

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

The penny seems to be dropping for (1) HANGANG SKY who comes in following a much-improved 4th and 3rd from his latest two at 1200M and 1300M. both times coming from off the pace from wide draws and most recently beating three of today’s rivals on July 9th. The step up to 1400M for the first time can suit and from a better gate, he is the one to beat. (5) EFFEL TAP has mixed his form across seven starts so far but does have a couple of 3rd places to his name. He weakened late on when returning from five months out at the end of July but should strip fitter for that run and can go closer today. (8) THEME TANSAENG was 4th behind Hangang Sky in that July 9th race. He too comes up to seven-furlongs for the first time, he should be on pace, and he can be in this a long way. Those three look superior to the rest and will make up just about everyone’s top-three in some order. Something has to finish in 4th or 5th though with (3) DINSI CHAMP and (6) GEOMOON perhaps the most likely.

Selections(1) Hangang Sky (5) Effel Tap (8) Theme Tansaeng (3) Dinsi Champ
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 11

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

(6) TAEPYEONG FIGHTER led on debut before weakening but then stayed on much better for 2nd on her re-appearance on July 9th, well beaten by a good winner but in a quick time, nonetheless. She comes up in trip for the first time, she surely leads again, and she may not get caught. Except when missing the break two starts back, (7) NEW POINT has performed fairly across four outings so far, with a 2nd and a 3rd, most recently in an all-filly race over this trip on July 2nd. She can sit handy here and can still be there at the business end. (4) BANFF has finished no worse than 5th from four attempts. He has the fastest time for the distance among those here who have previously attempted it, recorded when 2nd back in March. He has a strong finish on him and should be a danger late on here. (11) BOREUM DALBIT is a bit of a wildcard having raced just the once back in April. She showed promise finishing 4th and while she has had fifteen weeks off since, she can be given a chance. (9) NURI TAEYANG perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(6) Taepyeong Fighter (7) New Point (4) Banff (11) Boreum Dalbit
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) WONDERFUL JOY led for much of the way around at class and distance on July 8th, ultimately running a close 5th. He has a solid record at this distance and today could well be his day. The main danger and probable betting favourite is (5) CAMINO He has only raced seven times but has a 2nd and a 3rd at this distance with the latter being at this class on June 17th when leading until the closing stages. He comes down slightly in the weights. He will surely be on pace again and may take some getting past. (3) LIONETTE has run fairly in two starts back following a six-month absence. While yet to finish in the top two, she has posted a quick time at this trip, Johan climbs aboard, and third-up this preparation, she may be peaking fitness-wise. (6) DESIRE TO WIN, who is a class and distance winner, and (9) ORGALIM among others with at least placing claims in a competitive race.

Selections(4) Wonderful Joy (5) Camino (3) Lionette (6) Desire To Win
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 8

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

Since scoring on debut, (9) BLOOMING STAR has been working back up towards another won and most recently ran a very close 2nd at class and distance on July 2nd having led almost the entire way around and just being taken down on the line. He does come up 2.5kg in the weights and he draws a little wider than ideal but neither of those are insurmountable and he is the one to beat. (7) WHIZ UP was a class and distance winner two starts back in June and while he never really got into things over 1400M when 6th on his return on July 8th, the margins weren’t huge, and he shouldn’t be too far away here. (1) ECHO ZONE comes in off a solid 2nd place at class and distance on July 9th when he began well, dropped back to midfield, and then ran on. He draws the same inside gate and won’t be far away. (10) WONDERFUL NAMCHON returned from four months off to get his maiden win over this distance at the end of June. He comes up in class but down in the weights and can measure up. (5) MONEY STONE another in the placing frame.

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Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 6)

Seoul is the only racecourse hosting live racing on Sunday with a 15-race daytime program from 11:35 to 19:00. Here are the previews:

Complete Value has grown up a bit since he became Champion Juvenile in 2021. He goes in the class 1 feature at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (8) MIRACLE HANGANG, who ran a solid 2nd on debut over this distance on July 2nd, leading for much of the way, only to be left behind by a good winner in the closing stages. He’ll be on pace again and has every chance of going one better. (11) MORNING BOLD is the only one in the field to have raced twice. He ran 2nd on debut in June before then finishing 3rd behind Hangang Miracle in that July 2nd race having settled handy. He has a length and a quarter to make up but shouldn’t far away again. (6) GOLDEN LINE was an on-pace 3rd in a quick race on debut on July 1st. He should get to the lead again and may take some passing. Among the first-time starters, (2) NICE TIME looks the best He went through two trials clocking similar times in both and from a nice draw can go well first-up. (4) ORAEDAHAMKKE, 4th on debut, another who can improve.

Selections(8) Miracle Hangang (11) Morning Bold (6) Golden Line (2) Nice Time
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 11

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

Tricky maiden. (7) TESTA BLUE gets the verdict having run an improved 2nd over this distance on July 8th when settling just behind the speed and stopping the clock in a good time. Expect similar tactics today and she won’t need to improve much to win this. (9) MUNHAK CENTRAL has a couple of 4th places to her name most recently on June 18th when settling back and running on over this distance. She has run fair times so far and still has some scope for improvement. (4) WINNER JERIN ran 2nd in a trial and was then a creditable enough 5th of nine on debut on July 2nd when racing handy. He should have derived benefit from that experience and can get closer here. (11) NEMO SPIRIT and (1) MISTER STAR, the latter returning ten months after his inauspicious debut but looking much more promising in a June trial, are others to consider.

Selections(7) Testa Blue (9) Munhak Central (4) Winner Jerin (11) Nemo Spirit
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

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

Fillies (and one mare) only in this maiden. Nothing especially jumps out so without much confidence we’ll go with (9) SHOOT UP SPARK, who has at least been consistent across ten starts so far, picking up four 5th place finishes. She has run some fair times and facing weaker than usual company, she has as good a chance as any. In an indication of just how weak, (11) CLASS HEEMANG hasn’t raced since a middling debut a full fifty-six weeks ago. She may even start as favourite here though following two very positive trials on consecutive weeks in July where she finished 2nd and 3rd, both in good times. That double trialling should ensure that despite the layoff she arrives race fit, and she couldn’t hope for a softer race to return in. (7) SESANG APERUO showed on pace in her second of two starts so far and that’s enough to put her in the frame here. (3) RAON JUMP and (6) WONPYEONG LIST others who could compete for the minors.

Selections(9) Shoot Up Spark (11) Class Heemang (7) Sesang Apeuro (3) Raon Jump
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 10

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

(2) WINNER DRAGON gets the nod here based on his last start 2nd place when he came from off the pace to get close over 1200M on June 11th. He draws well here, carries the same weight and it looks as though he has finally figured things out. (11) VELVETY has steadily improved across three starts so far culminating in a 4th place at 1200M on July 8th. She has the challenge of the widest gate but there isn’t much in the way of early speed here and with a bit of luck, she may well get a forward position and can be on this a long way. The additional half-furlong can suit. (1) ONE SPEAR and (8) FOUR ACE came home 2nd and 4th respectively when they raced each other over this distance on July 1st. The former has raced once – disappointingly – since then but comes into a better gate today and both can challenge. (5) MAGUMA another placing chance.

Selections(2) Winner Dragon (11) Velvety (1) One Spear (8) Four Ace
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start4, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Wide open maiden. At a potential each-way price we’re happy to take a chance on (1) GEUMA STEADY. After an ordinary debut, she was a much-improved 2nd at start number two on July 2nd when racing handy throughout, albeit beaten by a good winner. She draws nicely to do similar here and has as good a chance as any. (8) PURPLE SHINHWA began his career with three consecutive 5th place finishes before improving to 2nd when stepped up to this trip on July 8th and racing on pace. The time wasn’t quick, but he had a couple of today’s rivals behind him, and he will be expected to get to the front again. (7) JECHUK ILHO was 3rd in that July 8th race having shared the early lead with Purple Shinhwa. That was a big uptick in form, and he can maintain that momentum today. (10) BUTTER K and (6) COLITAS others firmly in the hunt in a race of many chances.

Selections(1) Geuma Steady (8) Purple Shinhwa (7) Jechuk Ilho (10) Butter K
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Another competitive affair. (3) SAENAE KHAN has only put in one poor performance to date when badly away two starts back. He returned to form with a close 2nd in a quick time over this distance on July 1st when racing handy and he could well go one better today. (4) K N GOLDEN KING will ned a line drawn through his latest when well backed but could only managed 6th of eleven. The margins weren’t huge though and at the start prior he only went down a very narrow 2nd at class and distance. He will be on pace here and may be hard to pass. (6) PEERLESS is yet to win in seven attempts but has six top-four finishes including last time out at class and distance. She should be there or thereabouts again. (5) GEUMBIT CHEONHA and (7) SONGAM DRAGON among others in the frame.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 5)

Seoul is the only track in operation this weekend and the two day program begins with a 15 race afternoon and evening card on Saturday with 15 races from 13:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens with all but two racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (9) ZIGGURAT who came from off the pace to run 2nd on debut on June 24th over this distance in a decent time. He should have come on for the run and with some natural improvement will take some beating. (6) RAON THE FANTA is the only newcomer who enters having won her trial. She did that on June 9th, beating a couple of these in the process when settling handy from gate ten. If she can bring that form to the races, she won’t be far away. (10) HERE I AM was slowly away in his heat but finished off pleasingly and while he draws wide, with a better start he can get close on debut. Aside from the favourite, the other one with racing experience is (3) SONGAM SKY. He only beat a couple home in a slow race on July 15th but had previously gone quicker in a trial and should strip fitter today. (1) GEUMAK EAGLE took two goes to qualify but improved significantly the second time around and if she can maintain that trajectory if development, can be considered.

Selections(9) Ziggurat (6) Raon The Fanta (10) Here I Am (3) Songam Sky
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imports with northern hemisphere juveniles and southern hemisphere three-year-olds. Seven of the eight have already raced, four of them facing each other in a very similar race to this on June 10th. (7) ECLIPSE TOWN came out the best of them that day settling midfield and running on for 3rd in a good time. Like the rest, he should have derived benefit from that experience and looks the one to beat here. The solitary debut-maker has claims. (8) PANORAMA KING. The Tapwrit colt comfortably won his trial settling handy early before dominating in the closing stages and stopping the clock in a fair time. (1) HERO FIGHTER was a big-priced 4th on his debut on July 8th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He draws the same inside gate and will be much shorter this time around. (2) KLIMT WORLD was 6th in that same race having shown close to the pace and along with (5) VICTORY HIT, the only one in the race to have appeared twice before, most recently behind Eclipse Town, are others to consider.

Selections(7) Eclipse Town (8) Panorama King (1) Hero Fighter (2) Klimt World
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

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

Back to juvenile maidens here with all but two having raced before although none at this distance. (5) PERFECT TIARA has raced twice, finishing 3rd and 4th at 1000M. She can race on pace here and it can be third time lucky. (11) TRAUM KING was a June trial winner before running an on-pace 4th on debut on July 8th. He may need a touch of luck from the wide draw ut he too can be on pace and can be in this a long way. (6) VINCENT CAVALLO was slowly away from the widest gat on debut on June 24th. He draws better this time, the additional trip can suit, and Kim Yong-geun climbs aboard. (4) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG and (8) SMART CLAIR among others with the potential for improvement.

Selections(5) Perfect Tiara (11) Traum King (6) Vincent Cavallo (4) Seongsil Yeongung
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 11

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

(5) LUCKY HONEY had a dodgy first couple of outings but has put together four top-four finishes on the spin including a 2nd and a 3rd in her latest two, both over this trip when racing just behind the speed. Any top -three finish here will see her into class 5 next time and today could be her day to come out on top. The penny seems to have dropped too for (9) NAOL SKY with two 3rd places and a 4th from her latest two. She has posted fair times and the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. (7) RAON AIR FORCE was a much-improved 3rd on June 16th when for the first time he led. Expect similar tactics today and he can be in this a long way. (3) GRATITUDE and (10) WONPYEONG SKY are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(5) Lucky Honey (9) Naol Sky (7) Raon Air Force (3) Gratitude
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

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

(4) SEVEN BLADE will be hot favourite here. After running 5th on debut in May, he was a close 2nd when sent up to this distance on June 25th, settling just behind the leaders and running on. In this company and from a good gate, he can be expected to be on the speed, and he will take some beating. (11) MENI SHARK has shown steady improvement across six starts so far, culminating in a runner-up finish over this distance on July 9th. She has the fastest time among any of these for the distance and she should be a factor here. (7) KARIZMA picked up significantly in his latest outing, overcoming gate ten to run 2nd. He was ridden much further forward than he had been previously, and similar tactics can be expected here. (5) GOLDEN PEARL and (3) WONDERFUL RULES the other placing chances.

Selections(4) Seven Blade (11) Meni Shark (7) Karizma (5) Golden Pearl
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

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

Another race with a strong favourite, in this case (7) MADE STAR. After taking a few goes to figure things out, she has a4th and a 2nd from her latest two, at 1200M and 1300M, both times coming from off the pace. She has a strong finish on her and so long as she isn’t left with too much to do or too much traffic to get through, she should be making the breakthrough here. (11) WONDERFUL FOX is the logical danger. She has been a model of consistency with five top-three finishes from six starts so far and while she is yet to break the top-two, that should change today. Another one with a strong finish, the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and she can be a danger in the closing stages. (2) SMART SOCKS comes in off a best so far 3rd on July 15th. She comes into a better gate today and a repeat isn’t impossible. (4) SAEBYEOK ANGAE and (8) ARCH RUNNER others in the hunt.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 23)

There is Sunday racing scheduled for both Seoul (10 races from 11:35 to 19:00) and at Busan (7 races from 12:40 to 18:00). The forecast is for heavy rain. Here are the previews:

Hangang Ace is back Seoul on Christmas Eve

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

Juvenile maidens with all eleven racing for the very first time. The probable favourite is (1) BUNDANG TSUNAMI. He showed close to the pace in his trial, crossing the line in midfield in a fair time. From the inside gate, he should be able to get to the lead here and he has as much chance as any. (5) TAEPYEONG HERO went through a couple of trials, running an improved 4th on a wet track in the second of them. If he can continue with that trajectory, he can go close here. (4) JECHUK IHO ran a very close 2nd in his heat, coming from off the pace. The time wasn’t quick, but it is enough to put him in the mix here. (11) GREAT STORM and (7) YEOWANG SOCKS, the latter trailing up in the same heat as Bundang Tsunami, are others who hinted at ability.

Selections(1) Bundang Tsunami (5) Taepyeong Hero (4) Jechuk Iho (11) Great Storm
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

(6) BEAT RACER beat a couple of these on his way to 2nd place over 1300M on June 18th. That was his best finish to date and continued a pattern of steady improvement. Like all but two of the field, he steps up to 1400M for the first time and with Moon Se-young climbing on, today can be his day. (2) VILLARRICA took a few goes to figure things out but has picked up in his recent two with a 2nd and a 4th. Both at 1200M. He finished off well both times and the step up to 1400M could work in his favour. (5) ONE SPEAR enters off a best to date result of 2nd over 1300M on July 1st. He is another who comes up to the 1400M for the first time and it may well suit. (10) SAVANA CHARLIE loves coming 4th and has every chance of doing that again. (1) EFFEL TAP another in the placing frame.

Selections(6) Beat Racer (2) Villarrica (5) One Spear (10) Savana Charlie
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 9

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but one racing for the first time. That one with prior experience is (3) CHAMSARANGGIL, who having won a trail in May debuted on June 11th over 1200M where she raced handily and briefly hit the front before eventually finishing 2nd. She has had six weeks off since then, but she should have derived benefit from the experience and has every chance of going one better. (7) BORN DIA won her trial having run on pace, stopping the clock in a good time on a wet track. She can be expected to be on pace here and can put in a bold showing first up. The same applies to (4) MY MELODY. She led for much of the way around before being overtaken and ultimately ran 2nd. It’s fair to say that trial winner hasn’t shown much in three starts but nevertheless,  My Melody can be on the speed and in this a long way. (2) ROAD STAR and (8) GEUMA PRECEDE are others in the frame.

Selections(3) Chamsaranggil (7) Born Dia (4) My Melody (2) Road Star
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

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

(8) JUMONG CHEONHA remains a maiden after six attempts but has finished in the top-four on no fewer than five occasions. That includes his latest two, at 1200M and 1300M when running on for 3rd and 4th, and the slight step up to 1400M today could be exactly what he needs to make the breakthrough against a limited set of rivals. (3) DOLBAE has plenty of experience at the level and while here recent form reads rather ordinary, she has posted some fast times in better company than this. From a good draw she can be on what passes or the speed here and can go close. (10) FLYING LIGHT ran a good 2nd at this class over 1300M two starts back and the margins weren’t huge when he was beaten into 7th last time out. He has a strong finish on him, and the wide draw shouldn’t matter. (11) STAR PRINCSSS and (2) BICHUICA others in the frame.

Selections(8) Jumong Cheonha (3) Dolbae (10) Flying Light (11) Star Princess
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8

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

(11) GANGSEO BULPAE won an April trial and then ran a close 2nd on debut on June 25th almost making all over this distance and stopping the clock in a significantly quicker time than any of the others here have managed. She should have come on for that run and while she is drawn wider than ideal, she is the one to beat. (10) HANEUL HAETSAL has a 3rd and a 5th from her latest two, both over 1300M and both times having raced on pace. She too received no favours from the draw but with a touch of luck at the start, if she can find a decent position, she should be in the finish. (5) FIRST MENI has finished off her last couple of races well and she steps up to 1300M for the first time. She is third-up this preparation having missed the entire first half of the year and she could be peaking fitness-wise. Solitary debut-maker (1) FIRST KOREA was an on-pace 2nd in a good time in his trial and in this company must be given a chance first-up. (9) URI DAHAMKKE another in the placing frame.

Selections(11) Gangseo Bulpae (10) Haneul Haetsal (5) First Meni (1) First Korea
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (6) SPECIALTIME was a winner on debut over 1200M on June 17th when she overcame gate ten to sit behind the speed and then ran on well. She comes up in class and slightly in distance here, but she comes into a better gate and with some natural improvement from that first run, she can maintain her 100% record. The main danger is (2) BURUI KKOT. She is yet to win in fourteen attempts but has five runner-up finishes to her name, including her latest on June 18th. She is well drawn; she has run good times at this distance and today could be her day. (7) BIG BLED comes up in class having secured her maiden win at start number three on May 28th when she scored by a full seven-lengths over 1200M. This is tougher but the manner of that win suggests that there may be more to come. (4) HWANGGEUMKKOT and (8) DORIPO among plenty of others with placing claims in a competitive race.

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Minister’s Cup Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 22)

The Triple Crown concludes under the floodlights at Seoul on Saturday evening with the running of the Minister’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) Korean Derby winner Global Hit returns at the head of full field of sixteen. There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 14:45 to 18:00.

Global Hit won the Derby (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener with all eleven racing for the first time. The hot favourite will be (5) DALBITJOGAKSA. She sat handy in her trial before running away from the field in the closing stages to cross the line in front by as many as she pleased in a quick time. She draws well, and if she brings anything like that form to the races, she will take some beating. (9) HAENGBOKHAN SEUNGJA showed a good bit of speed in her trial too, running 2nd behind an experienced racehorse. She sat just behind the early leaders and ran on well and should be in with a shout here. (6) GEUMAK JINJU similarly was 2nd in her heat, showing on the speed and should have supporters. (10) TAEPYEONG VISION won her heat and while the time wasn’t hugely quick and she does draw wide, that showing is enough to put her in the numbers here. (1) HAPPY ICTUS, who improved in the second of two trials (it may not be on all race cards) another who hinted at ability.

Selections(5) Dalbitjogaksa (9) Haengbokan Seungja (6) Geumak Jinju (10) Taepyoung Vision
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start5, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Maidens with northern hemisphere juveniles and southern hemisphere three-year-olds. Eight of the eleven race for the first time. (3) UWARYUNG was 2nd on debut at this distance on June 10th when settling midfield and running on. She was well beaten by the favourite, Spurt Bit, who has since gone on to win again, but she posted a good time and with some natural improvement, she can be the one to beat here. Of the first-time starters, (11) I’M JJANG is the pick. He went through two trials, running fairly for 4th in the first of them and then going through a voluntary one (which may not appear in all race cards) in May, which he won. In a quick time, settling midfield and running on. Moon Se-young is aboard, and he will have plenty of backers. (10) ULTRA DRAGON was slowly away in his first trial and missing the qualifying time, but he was much improved in a second one, leading all the way to win the heat in a good time. The draw is not ideal but if he brings that form to the races, he can go close. (4) MIGHTY JJANG and (8) ENDING FIRE others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Uwaryung (11) I’m Jjang (10) Ultra Dragon (4) Mighty Jjang
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

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

(1) GANGPUNGMA debuted on June 11th and having settled back in midfield, finished strongly for a creditable 3rd place. The time was quicker than any of the others have posted for this distance, and he should have derived benefit from the experience. He draws better this time, he should be closer to the speed, and he has solid claims. (4) AUSTIN LEADER may sound like a regional Texas newspaper, but he’s shown some ability across three starts so far, especially in his last start 2nd over this distance when he led almost the entire way around, just getting headed late on. He comes into a better gate today, can lead again, and can once more be in things a long way. (3) NAOL DAEWANG has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far, both at this distance. In the first he came from well off the pace while in the second he was ridden much handier. Expect the latter today and he has a strong finish on him. (11) GEOMUI JEONSEOL and (2) TAEPYEONGMU others who come in with recent form reading well.

Selections(1) Gangpungma (4) Austin Leader (3) Naol Daewang (11) Geomui Jeonseol
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 7

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

(10) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK’s last start 2nd in a good time over this distance is enough to put him on top here. He has only put in one bad run in five and that latest effort on June 25th saw him race handy and only go down narrowly to a long shot. The draw isn’t the best, but he should have enough about him to find a decent position again and if he does, he is the one to beat. (11) DAONDI beat Sidaeui Myeongjak two starts back when the pair ran 2nd and 5th over 1200M on May 28th. He didn’t run on in his subsequent start at this distance in June but is worth another chance here. (1) JANGHEUNG CLASS is another who will need a line drawn through his latest when he had a wide gate and used up plenty of energy getting close to the lead before weakening. Form a better draw and with Moon Se-young aboard, he will be backed. (5) NAOL JEONGSANG, who returns for the first time since a promising debut last Christmas Day, is the wildcard, while (3) FLYING ZEST was a useful 4th at start number two last time out and can build on that here.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 16)

Sunday sees daytime racing (albeit with a start and finish time one hour later than usual) at both Seoul and Busan. There are 10 races in Seoul from 11:35 to 19:00 while there are 6 at Busan from 12:40 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the eleven racing for the first time. Three of those who do have prior experience debuted together on June 3rd and (1) THE PLAYER came out the best of them running 3rd over 1000M having led for much of the way. The time wasn’t quick, but he showed enough to suggest that he has a win in him sooner rather than later, Moon Se-young climbs on, and he will be a warm favourite. (7) SMART CAT also ran 3rd on his debut which came over 1000M on June 17th when settling back and running on. He too should have derived benefit from that experience and can be considered for improvement here. Among the first-time starters, (6) PURGE KING is the pick. He showed brightly across two trials, improving in the second of them when he settled handy. With some more natural improvement, he can put in a big showing first-up. (5) BAEKDU DAEMUL was 5th behind The Player on debut and can aim to improve while (9) GEOSEN BANGYEOK ran fairly in his first race on June 24th and is another who can expect to have benefitted from the experience.

Selections(1) The Player (7) Smart Cat (6) Purge King (5) Baekdu Daemul
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 11

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

(1) STEALTH PARK showed good improvement when 3rd at start number two on May 28th, settling back in the pack and finishing strongly over this distance in a fair time. Third-up he should be peaking and from the inside gate, he is the one to beat. (10) LUCKY HONEY took a few goes to figure things out but she enters having shown good results from her latest three with two 4th places and most recently a close 2nd at this distance. The time wasn’t quick and it was back in April so she comes in following fourteen weeks out, but she can go close. (11) PURPLE WINK has hinted at ability across his three appearances to date. He can settle back and has a strong finish on him so the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and he can challenge late on here. (9) PATHOS and (2) BANDO HUIMANG others in the frame.

Selections(1) Stealth Park (10) Lucky Honey (11) Purple Wink (9) Pathos
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 10

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

(6) BOB AND JOY ran fairly on debut, racing just behind the speed and finishing 5th of eleven in a fair time over this distance on June 25th. She should have benefitted from the experience and with some natural improvement, she looks to be the one to beat here. (1) CHOEGANG WEEK ran a much-improved 2nd at start number four on June 18th. She was well beaten by a good winner but draws nicely here and can maintain her momentum. (10) ROAD TO MAGIC won an April trial in a quick time before finishing midfield on debut over this distance on June 2nd. He raced on pace that day and in the trial so the wide draw is perhaps not ideal here but with a touch of luck at the start, he can be a danger. (11) ACE RUN and (9) DOCTOR WICKY others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(6) Bob And Joy (1) Choegang Week (10) Road To Magic (11) Ace Run
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 10

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (6) HANGANG HERO enters off a good 2nd place at class and distance on June 17th when settling midfield and then running on well. She was sent off at big odds but that was her second runner-up finish in her last three stats and while she is a seventeen-race maiden, today could be her day. (3) ICE CREAM has taken a few goes to get to grips with this level but she seems on the right trajectory, having led for much of the way around in a similar race to this on June 11th, ultimately finishing 4th. She draws well to be on pace again and should be in this a long way. (9) SOARA MEME us up in class and marginally in trip following a maiden win at 1200M on June 4th. She can measure up here. (7) GLOBAL CHANGA and (2) ZIRCON others to consider for the minors.

Selections(6) Hangang Hero (3) Ice Cream (9) Soara Meme (7) Global Changa
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

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

Weak maiden here. (7) SAMBA STEP has picked up across her latest couple of outings with a 5th place most recently over 1200M on June 16th when racing handy throughout. She comes up to 1300M for the first time, she should be on pace, and she has as good a chance as any here. (9) MOST RAPID has been anything but rapid in four starts so far but is potentially getting better having beaten a couple of these on his way to 6th in a better maiden than this back in April. He comes in fresh and with an apprentice taking 3kg off his back. (10) LUCKY BAND has a 3rd place to his name and while a mile didn’t suit last time, this looks a more suitable assignment. (2) EVERY KING IJI and (5) STORMY DAY other possibles.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 15)

The twilight racing season comes to Seoul on Saturday with 10 races from 14:45 to 21:00 including the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup, the final leg of the Triple Tiara. Here are the previews:

Floodlight racing is back

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

Juveniles here with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. (6) NAEGILUI CAPTAIN and (4) SEOUL CHOEGANGJA debuted together on June 17th and came home in 2nd and 4th respectively. The time was not quick, but the real race experience should be beneficial, and they shape as the leading two contenders here with Naegilui Captain favoured to score, potentially leading all the way. Of the debut-makers, (11) RAON THE TAP won his trial, leading for most of the way around. He isn’t done any favours by the draw, but if he brings that form to the races, he has at least solid placing chances. (7) YONGBI POWER went through a rare quick trial. She was a long way behind the winner but that is enough to put her in the frame first-up. (3) HANGANG GLORY is another who hinted at ability in his trial and can be considered.

Selections(6) Naegilui Captain (4) Seoul Choegangja (11) Raon The Tap (7) Yongbi Power
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 11

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

(2) HAENGBOK YEOWANG comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes. She has rarely found herself in such amenable company as this and from a good draw, she can be on pace and can perhaps go all the way. (9) GHANA DREAM has a 2nd and a 3rd among her four starts so far. She needs to be given a pass on her latest when she got too far back but she generally has a strong finish on her and if she is in striking distance at the business end of the race, she will a danger late on. (11) NEMO SPIRIT comes in having run an improved 5th on her latest appearance on June 11th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she is another who can be doing her best work late on here. (6) YEJIMONG and (3) JEONGSANG HIT don’t inspire much confidence, but both have shown themselves capable of running a good race in this kind of company.

Selections(2) Haengbok Yeowang (9) Ghana Dream (11) Nemo Spirit (6) Yejimong
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

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

(1) SHARP SUNSHINE has picked up in her latest three with two 4ths and a 3rd, that latter finish coming over this distance on June 17th. Her times haven’t been special but there is not much pace here and from a good gate she can lead and potentially go all the way. (10) BINNANEUN GEUMSEONG showed a sharp uptick in form when 2nd at start number four over 1200M on June 18th, settling back and finishing well. A similar run here will put her in the finish again. (6) EXPECT has mixed his form across five starts so far but going on his 3rd place over 1400M at the end of April, he should come into the calculations here. (7) GOLD MIGHTY, with a 2nd to his name is another, while (8) SMART SOCKS has also hinted at ability.

Selections(1) Sharp Sunshine (10) Binnaneun Geumseong (6) Expect (7) Gold Mighty
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 8

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

(2) HAENGBOKAN MUNMAK enters in good form with a 2nd two starts back over 1200M followed by a 3rd place at today’s trip on June 17th when she led for much of the way and only went down narrowly. She beat a couple of today’s rivals in the process and from a good gate she can lead again, and this time go all the way. (8) LUCKY POWER had a hard time when stepped up to 1700M last time out, showing close to the pace and then weakening. He may be happier back at one turn here and he has a smart finish on him. (5) ORCHID VALLEY has four top-three finishes from six stats so far including last time out when a solid 3rd at this class over 1200M. In this company he can be on pace and in this a long way. (1) LEMON BLADE comes up in class following a maiden win at start number seven over 1200M. He comes down in weight and from the inside gate can measure up. (11) GRAND POWER another in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Haengbokan Munmak (8) Lucky Power (5) Orchid Valley (1) Lemon Blade
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

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

(5) SINUI BANJEON is a ten-race maiden, but she has no fewer than four runner-up finishes, including her latest start at this class and distance on June 4th when, as is her preferred style, she was on pace throughout. She comes up 2kg in the weights, but she really should have the measure of this field and she is the one to beat. (6) CLUB D is also a maiden, but he has been finishing off his races well and the step up to two turns could well suit him. He can go close. (3) P N S AI comes back up to two turns for the first time since a shy at the stumps in last year’s Minister’s Cup (it missed). He has been steadily working back into form across recent starts, culminating in a 2nd place over 1400M last time out and he can be in the mix again here. (7) GREEN FEELSTAR and (2) STAR K are others in the hunt.

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Owners’ Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (July 9)

The Busan Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) takes centre stage this Sunday when a full field of sixteen face off on the south coast. The big race is race 6 of seven on the card which runs from 11:25 to 17:00. At Seoul there is a 10-race card from 10:35 to 18:00.

Daehan Jilju is the probable favourite for the Busan Owners’ Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

Maiden juvenile fillies only with six of the eleven racing for the first time. The only one of the remaining five to have raced twice is the favourite and that’s (6) GEOLJAK ONE. She debuted in 4th place in a quick race on a wet track on May 28th and then followed it up with a 2nd place, going down very narrowly, on June 10th having raced close to the pace both times. It should be third-time lucky here. (1) PERFECT TIARA debuted in that June 10th race having shown little in trials but ran a good 3rd, coming from the middle of the pace. She has three-lengths to make up on Geoljak One but should have come on for the experience. (5) ECLIPSE BERRY debuted in the May 28th race and overcame the widest gate to run 6th. She too should be going closer this time. As for the first timers, (7) HAMPYEONG JANGMI and (10) SEIRENE were perhaps the best in trials.

Selections(6) Geoljak One (1) Perfect Tiara (5) Eclipse Berry (7) Hampyeong Jangmi
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

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

(11) KING GO TAEYANG has shown steady improvement across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over 1200M on June 11th, albeit well beaten by the winner. He has the challenge of the wide gate here but the step up to 1300M can suit and he is the one to beat. (1) MENI SHARK showed signs of figuring things out when stepped up to this distance on June 11th and running a best to fate 4th. Her time that day was quicker than any of the others who have tackled this distance have managed and from a good gate, she can go closer today. (6) GOLDEN SNIPER also comes in off a best to date finish when 2nd on June 4th at this trip. He can sit behind the early speed here and can be in the finish. (4) BRAVO HANSEN and (5) SAEROUN BITKKAL among others who can dispute the minors.

Selections(11) King Go Taeyang (1) Meni Shark (6) Golden Sniper (4) Bravo Hansen
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

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

(1) RAON THE AGAIN will be one of the banker favourites of the day. After a quick trial, she ran 2nd on debut over 1200M on June 2nd having settled back and run on strongly to only go down narrowly. She draws well, the slight step up in trip can suit, and she won’t need to improve very much to win this. (6) KALJABI is the obvious second pick. After running 4th on debut, he led for much of the way around second-up on May 28th, again over 1200M, ultimately coming home in 2nd. He should lead again here and can hold off the favourite for a long time. It would be a big surprise if those two don’t fill out the quinella, but the final place is up for grabs. (8) CHEONGMAUI JILJU ran an improved 4th last time out at 1200M and can maintain her positive momentum again here. (3) ILCHUL GOLD and (2) UNMATCHED are others who can compete.

Selections(1) Raon The Again (6) Kaljabi (8) Cheongmaui Jilju (3) Ilchul Gold
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

(3) LONDON MYEONGGA had seemingly lost his way a little but came back into form with a strong 3rd over this class and distance on June 4th when on pace throughout. He draws well here to be on or close to the pace again and has every chance. (5) GLORY K remains winless but enters with recent form reading well with two 3rd place finishes from her latest three, most recently when leading most of the way around over 1400M on June 10th. She is under a very light weight, she draws well to lead again, and it would be no surprise if she made the breakthrough here. (4) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG comes up in class after three consecutive 3rd place finishes, the most recent two over this distance. His times have been competitive enough and he comes down significantly in the weights. (7) LEGEND K and (9) KKANGDORI others to consider.

Selections(3) London Myeongga (5) Glory K (4) Challanhan Pokpung (7) Legend K
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

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

Competitive maiden. (11) ACE A MOCA has improved across three starts so far, most recently an on-pace 3rd over this distance on June 16th. She may need a touch of luck at the start from the widest gate here but she as good a chance as any. (9) YONGSAN KEUNBYEUL comes in off a much-improved 3rd on May 19th when settling handy and running on. In this company she can be on the pace and while in the absence of an apprentice claim she comes up in weight, Choi Si-dae climbs aboard and she shouldn’t be far away. (4) HERO J has only raced twice and was an improved 3rd in the second of them when she came from well off the pace. She draws better today and comes into contention. (5) YONG GUN and (8) WONDERFUL ONE are others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Ace A Moca (9) Yongsan Keunbyeul (4) Hero J (5) Yong Gun
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

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

(8) SUNGAN TOUCH had a slightly disappointing day at the office when well supported over 1300M on June 3rd but finishing 6th of ten. He was going very well at this distance prior to that though with a 2nd and a 3rd at this class, and he will be a warm favourite to score here. (2) FIRST USER remains a maiden but comes up in class after two runner-up finishes at class 6. She likes to run on pace so she is drawn very nicely and the 2kg drop in carried weight can help her be competitive here. (3) JAEWOO SIDAE comes in having run 3rd at a big price at class and distance on June 16th when slowly away but running on really well. She will warrant more respect this time around. (7) LONDON QUEEN and the up in class (5) SEOUL SPURT among others to consider.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 8)

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

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

Juvenile maidens with all but two racing for the first time. The hot favourite will be (3) TRAUM KING. The To Honor And Serve colt led every step of the way in his trial on June 2nd, crossing the line four-lengths clear of anything else in a decent time. From a good draw, if he brings that form to the races, he will be hard to beat. (4) JANGGUN GARAM is one of the two who have already races. He came home 7th of eleven in a quick race on a very wet track. He should have derived benefit from the experience and can get closer today. That applies too to (11) MULLEBANGA who ran fairly on his debut and with some natural improvement, can be in the placing hunt. Returning to the first-time starters, (2) RAON THE MAN led his trial, ultimately crossing the line 3rd. It wasn’t quick but he showed enough to suggest he can go well first-up. (10) ILINX was a trial winner and while done no favours by the draw, can’t be ruled out either.

Selections(3) Traum King (4) Janggun Garam (11) Mullebanga (2) Raon The Man
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / 75 Million

Eleven young imports with ten of the eleven racing for the first time. The one who we have seen before, (9) SPURT BIT, was impressive. Having won a May trial, he debuted on June 10th and sat on the heels of the leader before taking things up in the straight and running on to win by four-lengths. He won’t need to improve much on that to win again. (8) KLIMT WORLD trialled up in that same May heat behind Spurt Bit and he came home just half a length in arrears. It’s taken him a while to get to the races, but based on that trial, he can be a danger first-up. (11) GOOD HAPPY went through two trials, first to qualify in which he was slow away and underwhelming, and then a voluntary trial (which may not appear in all race cards) two weeks later at the end of May. He was a big improver in that one and can be considered here. It’s a similar story with (2) SINUI EREUM, whose official qualifying trial in April didn’t catch the eye but he has subsequently been through two more (again, these may not be on all race cards so do be aware) and improved in both, from wide gates. He draws nicely here and should go well. (10) NANO MASIN won his solitary heat and that’s enough to put him in the frame.

Selections(9) Spurt Bit (8) Klimt World (11) Good Happy (2) Sinui Ereum
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

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

Standard maiden here. (5) BANFF probably warrants favourite status with a 3rd, a 2nd and a 5th from his three starts so far, all at this distance and all in fair times. In this company he should be on or close to the pace, and he can win here. (3) BAEKDU MEOTJAENGI raced three times last summer and autumn, improving each time with a 3rd the best of them over this distance. She hasn’t raced since but looked well when trialling up on June 23rd and from a good draw should be on the speed and in this a long way. (9) TIZ ROCKET has the fastest time among these for the distance, recorded when 4th last time out on what was admittedly a very fat track. He can aim to match or better that 4th here. (8) MOON DUST and (1) TESTA BLUE others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Banff (3) Baekdu Meotjaengi (9) Tiz Rocket (8) Moon Dust
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 8

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

It’s hard to go too far past (10) GEOSEN CHAMP here. He’s been knocking at the door across his six starts so far and comes in off his best finish so far when 2nd over 1200M on June 18th when he overcame the same gate, he has today to race handy. Like all but two of these, he comes up to the 1400M for the first time and it may well suit. (8) SATURDAY finished off pleasingly enough over 1300M last timeout for a best to date finish of 5th. He is another who may appreciate the slight step up in trip today and can go closer. (3) PURPLE SHINHWA has three 5th place finishes from three starts so far, all over 1200M. He has been a touch one-paced but in this company and from this gate he should be on the lead early and “one-pace” could be enough pace to at least place here. (4) BEST PLAN and (5) RED TAEPUNG the best of an ordinary rest.

Selections(10) Geosen Champ (8) Saturday (3) Purple Shinhwa (4) Best Plan
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 11

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

(2) MORNING PEARL remains a maiden but has no fewer than four placings at this class, most recently when 2nd over 1300M back in February. She hasn’t raced since then but she looked well in a trial just last week when she wasn’t asked to do too much and while she will evidently need this, she has a chance and should be available at an each-way price. (8) DALGEUM is also a maiden, in her case after eight attempts. She comes in off a very narrow defeat at this class and distance on May 27th and shouldn’t be far away again. (9) BEST JEONSA and (3) STAND BY ME came home 4th and 7th respectively when they raced each other at class and distance on June 10th, the latter performing below expectations but had been going well previously. Both should be aiming to improve here. (1) SMART BLUE comes in off a class and distance 3rd and is another in the hunt in a small but competitive field.

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