Seoul

Classic Trials Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 1)

March kicks off with Listed races for three-year-olds at both Seoul and Busan. In total there are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Maiden fillies. (5) FLYING SMART was last throughout in her first trial on December 18 when beaten 39 ¾ lengths but atoned for that with a victory on January 15 coming from midfield to score by three lengths. On that most recent trial, this daughter of Old Fashioned looks to have a good chance of winning on debut for Kazuya Asano and Tony Castanheira. (11) ECLIPSE ELLY was ahead of five of her rivals when second beaten 11 lengths on debut back on January 24 and can go close again. (2) WALLSTREET was a long last back on debut however improved at attempt two to run third and can be prominent again for Johan Victoire and Moon Byeong-ki. (6) LAVITA was also a long last on debut, beaten 21 lengths, before improving to finish third second time around but in her case, she only improved one length on her debut as she was beaten 20 lengths. (1) BULGEUN YEOJEONSA and (8) CHEONGGANG BOM rate next.

Selections(5) Flying Smart (11) Eclipse Elly (2) Wallstreet (6) Lavita
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) RAON THE TONY has been the most consistent of these to date with a trial third followed by two third places at his two race starts racing on pace throughout in each of the three performances. In what is not a strong maiden he can go a few places better. (6) WINNER’S BLUE was third on debut when attempting to lead throughout however couldn’t lead last time and subsequently dropped out after failing to handle the kickback so if she can lead she can go close. (3) DANAEUN RUBY was second in her trial but in three races to date she has bombed out. She was ridden forward in the first two of those however was ridden from the rear at attempt three, but those changes of tactics achieved nothing. This isn’t a strong race so she hasn’t got that many more chances. (11) NIGHT CAPTAIN has been around the mark and rates over (8) AESUNI and (9) PARKA SHINE.

Selections(10) Raon The Tony, (6) Winner’s Blue (3) Danaeun Ruby (11) Night Captain
Next Best 8, 9
Fast Start 6, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

(4) TRIBAL WAR won a trial and then ran 2nd on debut over this distance on January 25th, leading for most of the way and beating four of today’s rivals. He won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this and he will start a short-price favourite. Having run 5th on debut, (7) GYEONGBOK STREGA was an improved 3rd in that January 25th race, coming from off the pace and finishing two-and-a-half lengths behind Tribal War. Third-up he can be nice and fit and continue to make progress. (6) ONE LAST MARGARITA was a trial winner and then ran 4th on debut in the January 25th race. He should have come on for the run and can get closer. Debut-maker (10) SAESIDAE WON won a trial and can be considered. (3) BARAM DAERO was slow away on debut but ran on well for 5th and is a place chance.

Selections(4) Tribal War (7) Gyeongbok Strega (6) One Last Margarita (10) Saesidae Won
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) POMADE has made steady progress across five starts so far, with her latest her best when 2nd over this distance on January 24th. She led for most of the way that day, but she has a smart finish on her too so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can go one better. The danger is on her inside. (10) PARAIBA has finished between 3rd and 5th in all her four starts so far, settling midfield and running on each time. The slight step up in trip can suit and Maia gets back on. (1) RISING WIND was a much-improved 3rd at start three on January 25th and is another who can benefit from the increased distance today. (4) EUNHA KALAS and (8) WONDERFUL REASON others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Pomade (10) Paraiba (1) Rising Wind (4) Eunha Kalas
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(11) VELOCI QUEEN was 4th on debut and then 2nd at start number two at this distance on January 23rd when she settled midfield and finished well, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. Third-up she can be peaking, and she can win. (3) SUNRISE will probably be the betting favourite. She has a 2nd and a4th in two starts at 1200M and 1300M and from a great draw, she can be on pace and can potentially go all the way. The form falls off significantly after those two. (2) DEEP SPRINT was 3rd on debut behind Veloci Queen on January 23rd and with some natural improvement can be a place chance. (9) SHINING CLUTCH and (1) DOCTOR STING may improve.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 28)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Underutilized public land (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with all but two racing for the first time. (11) GEUMBIT YEONGUNG went through three trials and in the final one of them, on January 29th, he came home 1st, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. He should be nice and fit for this and can be a chance. (10) GREEN JACKET was an on-pace winner of his trial, stopping the clock in a fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he’ll be in the mix. (4) EVER GLORY also showed at the front in her trial, crossing the line in 2nd place. Nicely drawn to be on pace, she can be in this a long way. (2) TTEUTDAERO and (5) TRIGONUS are others who hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(11) Geumbit Yeongung (10) Green Jacket (4) Ever Glory (2) Tteutdaero
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

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

Imported three-year-old maidens. After winning a trial, (4) HERO CHEETAH was a fair 4th on debut over this distance on February 14th, showing handy throughout. He should have come on for that run, and he won’t need to improve much to win here. (2) WHIZ STAR beat a couple of these on his way to 6th of ten on debut over this distance on January 10th. Drawing nicely, he can have benefitted for the experience and can be closer this time. After a good trial, (6) BREEDO CHAMPION was underwhelming on debut. He has since been back to trial again and can be given another chance here. (1) K N BIGBANG and (7) TAEKWON V are others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Hero Cheetah (2) Whiz Star (6) Breedo Champion (1) K N Bigbang
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) WISHMASTER has shown progress across three starts so far, with his latest his best when 2nd at 1200M on January 31st when on pace throughout. He’ll be on the speed again here and is favoured to go one better. (5) ROAD TO PERFECT has finished 4th on both starts so far, the latest behind Wishmaster in that January 31st race. The slight step up in trip can suit and Maia climbs on for the first time. (3) SEMYEONG PEAK has a 4th and a 5th from her latest two and in this company, she should be aiming to go better. (2) EODIGADO and (7) BREEDO CALEY others who can improve.

Selections(8) Wishmaster (5) Road To Perfect (3) Semyeong Peak (2) Eodigado
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Since returning from almost six months out, (5) KIA ORA has registered a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts back, both at 1400M. She steps up to this distance for the first time, but it can suit and third-up she can be peaking fitness-wise. (7) FIGHTER has been figuring things out over three starts so far with his latest two both finishing with 4th place, most recently over this distance on January 10th when settling midfield and running on. That experience can stand him in good stead, and he can be a danger late on. (3) BROWN SUGAR Is yet to finish any better than 5th but she has done that in both her latest two and the step up to two turns can see her better that here. (1) CHEONJI JACKAL and (2) JISAN FRIEND perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(5) Kia Ora (7) Fighter (3) Brown Sugar (1) Cheonji Jackal
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fascinating race. A winner on debut before running 3rd in Listed juvenile company, (3) UNICA has since been a beaten favourite on three occasions, most recently in filly only company at 1300M on February 7th. She gets a weight drop here, she draws well, and we’ll stay loyal. (9) ECLIPSE BOSS was 3rd on debut before running out and emphatic winner at start number two over this distance on January 17th when leading all the way. He comes up in class but is down 2kg in weight and the manner of that victory means it will be no surprise were he to repeat. (2) APATEU was a beaten favourite when 3rd at this class and distance on January 17th when on pace throughout. She’ll be on the speed here as well and is a chance again. (7) B.K. DEVIL and (6) TIGER K among plenty of other chances.

Selections(3) Unica (9) Eclipse Boss (2) Apateu (7) B.K. Devil
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. After running 2nd on debut, (5) GEUMJEOKSAN similarly got her maiden win from the front at start two in November. She was a beaten odds-on favourite when 3rd on her first try at this class at 1400M on December 28th but coming in fresh here, she is well worth another chance. (6) STUNNING DOLPHIN led from gate-to-wire to score at start number two on January 24th. She is up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be a problem, and she can be competitive again today. (2) GEOLJAK TIARA struggled from a wide draw on her first try at this class over 1400M on January 18th. She is one for one at today’s trip and from a much better gate, gets another chance. (4) BEST CHEONHA and (11) COMPLETE TOUCH among the other chances.

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Segye Ilbo Trophy: Preview & Form Comments

It’s been more than two months since the Grand Prix Stakes rounded off the 2025 Korean black type calendar, but big races are finally back as the 2026 season gets underway in earnest at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday with the Segye Ilbo Trophy (1200M KOR-Listed).   

SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 RACES ACROSS SEOUL AND BUSAN ON SUNDAY

Crown Hamseong bids to defend the Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

Remarkably a horse who ran in that Grand Prix which, at 2300M, is Korea’s longest race, is back to sprinting in the Segye Ilbo. And it’s none other than reigning Horse of the Year SPEED YOUNG. He may have won the President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) and then been 3rd in the Grand Prix but he started last year with 3rd place in this very same race. Known as the “Swiss Army Knife horse”, such is his versatility that he may well be sent off as favourite.

To win though, Speed Young will have to get past last year’s winner, CROWN HAMSEONG. The filly is first-up after almost three months off and has a lot of early speed. If CC Wong can get her into the lead, she may well go all the way. Kookje Shinmun (1400M KOR-G3) winner MUNHAK BOY has won his latest six and will be on pace too with strong claims.

SUPER FINISH was the best locally placed finisher in the Korea Sprint (1200 G3) last September and is not to be discounted while BEST RACE is an up and comer who has won his latest four and tests elite waters for the first time. Impressive last start winner YEONGGWANGUI WORLD rounds out those likely to be at the top of the market.

While the race is restricted to Korean-bred runners, there is plenty of ability – not to mention speed – among the fifteen-strong field:

1. SUPER FINISH – 3rd to Self Improvement and Chikappa in last year’s International Korea Sprint, he was most recently 3rd to Yeonggwangui World in a very quick class 1 over this trip in December. If he gets to the lead, he is a chance.

2. SPEED YOUNG – The reigning Horse of the Year was 3rd in this race a year ago before spending the rest of 2025 in the very best distance races, running 4th in the Korea Cup, winning the President’s Cup and then 3rd in the Grand Prix. He has never won at 1200M, but he is competent over any distance and will probably start as favourite.
3. MUNHAK BOY – Enters having won his last six, most recently the G3 Kookje Shinmun over 1400M at Busan. That distance and a mile would appear to be his go and if the pace is on, this may prove too sharp, but there is no doubting his quality and he is a big chance.

4. YEONGGWANGUI WORLD – 6th in this race last year but struggled in the opening leg of the Sprint Series. Ended 2025 in strong fashion with a blistering class 1 win at this distance in a Korea Sprint time. Races on pace and if he brings that form, he can win.

5. HAKSAN SPEED – Five-time winner at this distance although only up to class 2 level. Races on pace and while he will need to go much quicker here, he still has plenty more scope for development.

6. CROWN HAMSEONG – Last year’s winner, she followed up with 2nd places in two Queens’ Tour legs and behind Vincero Cavallo in the G2 SROA at this distance. Last raced 4th at class 1 level over a mile in November and trialed well last month. Another who likes to lead and a repeat isn’t impossible if she does.

7. TOUGH MAN – The veteran has been well back in his latest two, a Trophy race on international weekend, and then the KRA Sprint at Seoul on Grand Prix day. Big outsider.

8. MIRACLE HANGANG – 5th in the KRA Sprint at Seoul on Grand Prix day, and 4th behind Haksan Speed in his latest on January 17th. Solid class 2 horse but likely overmatched here.

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Segye Ilbo Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (February 15)

The final day’s racing before the Lunar New Year’s holiday sees the first Stakes race of 2026 with the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy at Seoul. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Horse Of The Year Speed Young goes in the Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Competitive maiden opener with four of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on a newcomer in the shape of (2) THE CLASSIC. He’s a “full” brother to KRA Cup Mile winner Betelgeuse and went through two trials, just doing enough in the first of them before winning the second with an on pace showing. He should be nice and fit and can win on debut. (1) GANGHAN GAMMA ran a fair 5th on debut on January 17th, settling back and running on. She should have come on for that, and the additional half furlong can suit. (6) NOBLE MATCH has raced twice, improving to 3rd at start number two. She’ll be on pace and can be in the finish. (5) PASA ACE and debut maker (9) SKYLOR TAEHA are others in the mix.

Selections(2) The Classic (1) Ganghan Gamma (6) Noble Match (5) Pasa Ace
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) YEONGWONHAN STAR has shown steady improvement across her four starts to date, culminating in 2nd place at 1200M on December 13th. She comes in fresh following nine weeks off, in this company she can be on the speed, and she rates as a big chance. (7) BLAZING ENGINE was slow away and never a factor at start two in January but if we go on his 2nd place on debut over 1200M at the end of December, he warrants another chance here. (11) X-TEN was a close 4th over this distance on January 25th and while she has the challenge of the widest gate here, she has finished off her races well and can be threatening late. (5) CHEONJI JACKAL and (9) BEST URBANE other place chances.

Selections(8) Yeongwonhan Star (7) Blazing Engine (11) X-Ten (5) Cheonji Jackal
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here and while there is only one debut-maker, she goes on top. (11) RUSH WILD led every step of the way to comfortably win her trial in a decent time, working through the line well. If she brings that form to the races, the Hansen filly has every chance first up. (7) VICTORIA CHUKJE has a 2nd and a 5th from two starts so far, beating several of today’s rivals in the process, and she looks like the best of the experienced ones. (2) TAEYANGUIYEOLJEONG was 4th behind Victoria Chukje on the latter’s debut but has a runner-up finish to her name too at this distance and that’s enough to have her in the mix as well. (4) NORTHERN QUEEN and (3) DUBAI CANDY others in the frame.

Selections(11) Rush Wild (7) Victoria Chukje (2) Taeyanguiyeoljeong (4) Northern Queen
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Since returning from five months out, (3) PNS GONGJA has finished 3rd twice, first at 1200M in December and then at 1400M on January 10th when he led for most of the way and beat a couple of today’s rivals. Third-up he can be peaking, Maia climbs on for the first time, and he can win (10) MADE ran twice last summer for a 4th and a 3rd and while he hasn’t raced since, he looked well in a January trial and can put in a good effort first-up. (6) MIGHTY CRIS was a much-improved 3rd over 1300M on January 18th, doing his best work late, and the slight increase in distance can suit. (9) PRIMERO and (4) HWANGGEUM MASK are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(3) PNS Gongja (10) Made (6) Mighty Cris (9) Primero
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) FLASH TO ME comes in having beaten three of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place over 1400M on January 16rg, settling fairly before being ridden up to be handy. The mile can suit, Franco rides for the first time, and he will be a short price to win. (8) MAGIC MIRROR was the second longest shot on the board last time out but defied that to run 3rd on his first try at 1400M. The further extended trip today can be in his favour and he can be in the finish again. (6) MUJEOK BIHAENG did beat Flash To Me when the pair ran 4th and 5th back in early December and she can offer some each-way interest. (3) TAEPYEONG FLEX and (9) BREEDO CAPTAIN are the other main chances.

Selections(10) Flash To Me (8) Magic Mirror (6) Mujeok Bihaeng (3) Taepyeong Flex
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) VALID YOUNG was a winner on debut over 1200M before running 4th on his first try at this class and distance on January 10th, settling midfield from a wide draw and running on. He can run on again here and he can win. The danger is on his immediate inside. (10) GENERAL WIND overcame the widest gate to win on debut over 1000M and then ran a very close 2nd at 1200M on December 21st at this level. He comes up to 1400M for the first time but if he can get a touch of luck at the start to help him lead, he has every chance. (2) TAEGISAN KING was 2nd at this class and distance on January 17th, coming from off the pace, and he can be in the mix again. (7) ROAD TO STAR and veteran (1) SSANG OK RU other minor money chances.

Selections(11) Valid Young (10) General Wind (2) Taegisan King (7) Road To Star
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) RAON THE CLARA went back to trial after an inauspicious debut in November. She came through the heat well and then finished a solid 3rd on her return over this distance on January 4th. She won’t need to improve much on that to win this. There are four first timers. (8) LEGEND SHA’CARRI won her trial in decent fashion, settling midfield and running on. 1200M can suit first up and if she brings that form to the races, she will be close. (9) ONNURI BIT was an improved 3rd at start number two over this distance on January 17th. She can be on pace here and in this a long way. (10) LEGEND MATCH and (5) PORTRAY MATCH others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(6) Raon The Clara (8) Legend Sha’Carri (9) Onnuri Bit (10) Legend Match
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 11

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

Three-year-old imported maidens with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (5) SOUTH CARNIVAL fairly bolted up in his trial, settling handy before pulling well clear late on. If he brings that form to the races, he will take some beating. (9) WHIZ PERFECT ran 3rd on debut over 1200M on December 21st racing handy throughout. He should have come on for that run and shapes as a chance here. (6) HERO CHEETAH is another debut making trial winner. He came from well back to score in his heat and can put in a bold effort first up. (4) BARAMUI GIEOK has raced twice already, improving to 3rd in the second of them and he can have a fitness edge here. (2) GLOBAL KINGDOM was ordinary on debut but previously trialed well and can be given another chance.

Selections(5) South Carnival (9) Whiz Perfect (6) Hero Cheetah (4) Baramui Gieok
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) GOLDEN DIVA has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at 1200M on January 3rd when coming from off the pace. She has run well from a forward position too, and from a good draw, today should be her day. (7) NUMBER ONE SOCKS was a much-improved 2nd last time out at 1200M, coming from off the pace. The same apprentice stays on, and they can go close again. (6) LOVERMAN has mixed his results so far, but he has two 3rd place finishes to his name, and he can aim to at least match that here. (10) CHEONJI LADY and (1) YONGBIGYO others in the frame.

Selections(2) Golden Diva (7) Number One Socks (6) Loverman (10) Cheonji Lady
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After running 7th on debut, (4) JEJU PRINCESS was 2nd on debut at this distance on January 18th, leading for much of the way. CC stays on and the pair can lead again and this time go all the way. (5) POWER BEST was 4th in that January 18th race when sent off as favourite. That was based on his 2nd place at the end of December at this distance and from a good gate, he too can be on pace, and he shapes as the main danger. (10) POWERFUL PRADO comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes and the slight step up in trip today can suit. (3) K SIMON and (9) CERAD came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at this distance on January 17th and they too can be in the frame here.

Selections(4) Jeju Princess (5) Power Best (10) Powerful Prado (3) K Simon
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here. A step up to two turns aside (10) GYEOUL JANGMI has been consistently around the money and was 3rd at this class and distance three starts back She has a good finish on her so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can make her breakthrough here. (7) CUPID K enters off a class and distance 4th last time out on January 18th. Her sole win came at this trip, and she shapes as a danger here. The rest of them need an uptick in form. (1) BEOLGYOWISU us netter than her latest effort suggests and from the inside gate can be closer to the pace today and is a place chance. (9) STUNNING STEP and (5) SWEET SONG perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(10) Gyeoul Jangmi (7) Cupid K (1) Beolgyowisu (9) Stunning Step
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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KOREA RACING REPORT: FEBRUARY 6-8

SEOUL – February 9, 2026 – Luke Humphreys & Alastair Middleton

The weekend’s feature race saw potentially big Sprint Series implications while a challenger approaches on the Triple Crown trail and a young filly made an impressive return.

The very final race of the weekend was the only Class 1, and it was billed as a showdown between MAGIC POTION and WONPYEONG STORM, both with aspirations of getting a place in the gate for the Busan Ilbo Sprint, the first leg of the Sprint Series next month.

When that 1200M feature finally took place on a bitterly cold Sunday in the capital city the face off never happened as Wonpyeong Storm missed the kick and Magic Potion hovered but ultimately offered little as WOW WOW (Cowboy Cal) led from gate-to-wire to score by a length from SPEED ONE at odds of 9.1 locally. The Song Jae-chul ridden seven-year-old recorded his seventh career win on his thirty-second start. Also in the race, the 2022 Korea Sprint winner EOMA EOMA, like Wow Wow also sporting the Nasca colours, but like Wonpyeong Storm the now nine-year-old was never a factor.

In earlier races, ACE K (Cupid) tackled the 1800M for the first time at class 3 level having gone no further than1400M before, but the extra quarter mile proved no problem as he raced on the pace throughout and won by an extending 13 lengths over 2.6 favourite Tanseongui Banseok. His co-favourite FLYING CRUISER was the big disappointment, finishing a long last.

GOLD CATCHER (Cowboy Cal) bounced back to winning ways when winning race 8 (1400M Class 4) for Johan Victoire and Luigi Riccardi. The four-year-old filly had never missed the top four placings prior to her previous start and proved way too good with a front-running three-length victory. The previously unbeaten SAMJEONG SPIDER started a 1.4 favourite but was a never nearer 5th after not the best of beginnings.

Also on form was PERFECT DANAEUN (Freedom Child) with a six-length score in race 7 (1600M Class 4). He had taken out four in a row before coming up against Di Ne last month but under Ruan Maia, this time he was untroubled by his rivals to take his overall record to five wins from twelve starts.

MAEUM HANA (Gaon Champ) made it two victories in a row with a front-running victory for jockey CC Wong and trainer Choi Yong-geon in race 5. The three-year-old colt recorded a time of 1:20.1 in the class 5 and looks progressive going on his five-length victory.

AMOS CHEONHA (To Honor And Serve) completed a double for that jockey-trainer combination, and was the first of two winners for owner Hong Ae Ran, when coming from well back to score in the following 1800M Class 5. He missed the break for the second consecutive start and whilst it did his chances no good it didn’t make a difference as he pulled victory from out of the fire by an extending length and a half.

RAON THE PLUMA (Indie Band), GRACE DAY (Race Day) and JAZZ PURPLE (Hansen) could be horses to follow going forward on their respective victories in the opening three races on the card which were all Class 6 contests.

THERE WAS A SEVEN-RACE CARD AT BUSAN ON SUNDAY AND CLEARLY WINNER (Hansen) resumed from five months away from the races with a stress fracture to win impressively in race 6 (1400M Class 4). 

The Park Jae-i ridden Kim Hye-sun prepared three-year-old filly raced on the pace throughout before roaring away in the straight to record a facile five-length success. 

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55, and at Busan with 7 races from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

2022 Korea Sprint winner Eoma Eoma is back for a campaign as a 9yo (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only in the opening maiden. (8) CALL ME SKY ran 2nd on debut to Holly Tiara in a quick similar filly maiden over this distance on December 13th. She’s had eight weeks off since but she can improve for the run and will be a short-price favourite to win here. (1) STUNNING POINT was an improved 5th at start two over this distance. She continues under an apprentice claim and from a better draw than in her first two outings, can get closer. (5) MISS CHRISTIE and (4) RAON THE PLUMA similarly improved to 5th on their respective second appearances and both can be fitter here. Continuing the theme of finishing 5th, (6) BEAT CODE did that on debut and can have come on for that effort.

Selections(8) Call Me Sky (1) Stunning Point (5) Miss Christie (4) Raon The Pluma
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden. (7) BANK LINE has made steady progress across three starts so far with her close 2nd last time out over this distance being her best. She led that day and from a fair draw, she can lead again and this time go all the way. (1) GRACE DAY has similarly raced three times and comes in following a 2nd place last time out when he was slower away than in his first two but ran on well. He shapes as the main danger here. (11) SEOPOKCHAT came from well off the pace to run 3rd on January 11th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can challenge late. (9) HAKSAN HENNY and (3) BEOLGYO EMPEROR among plenty of others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Bank Line (1) Grace Day (11) Seopokchat (9) Haksan Henny
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) TRICK SHOT has led in his latest two for 2nd and 3rd at this distance, most recently beating three of today’s rivals on January 11th. He should get an easier run to the front here and will be favoured to go all the way. (11) MAGIC HAMMER was 4th in that race on January 11th. He has the challenge again of the widest gate and doesn’t get an apprentice claim this time, but third-up he can be peaking and he can run on strongly. (9) QUEEN WIND was an on pace 2nd at start number two over this distance on January 9th. She can show on pace again and once more be in this a long way. (2) BRAVE RUN and (10) MOST WANTED are the other main chances.

Selections(1) Trick Shot (11) Magic Hammer (9) Queen Wind (2) Brave Run
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Not the strongest of maidens. (5) SANGIM YEONGUNG will need his latest forgiven which was the worst of his four starts to date. Before that he registered three top four finishes, coming from off the pace each time, and similar efforts to those can see him win this. (9) K N STORM ran 4th over 1200M on January 3rd, coming from a long way back to beat a couple of today’s rivals. The same apprentice keeps his weight light and he can challenge here. (4) JAZZ PURPLE hinted at an uptick in form with a front running 5th at 1300M at the end of December. He is up to 1400M for the first time but can be on pace again and in this a long way. (7) TRIPLE S and veteran (1) P N S PA in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Sangim Yeongung (9) K N Storm (4) Jazz Purple (7) Triple S
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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

The temperature has plunged again just in time for the weekend’s racing. There are 11 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on experience and (6) SEOUL BIHAENG, who after a quick trial led on debut over 1200M on January 10th before ultimately running 2nd. He should have come on for that run and has every chance here. (5) GWANAKSAN SKY will probably be the favourite. He was a strong trial winner, leading all the way and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (4) BREEDO AQUA ran 3rd in her trial in a decent time while (3) RACE DIVA was a very close 2nd. Both can put in bold showings first up. (8) CHEONDUNGUI JILJU is the next best going on trial efforts.  

Selections(6) Seoul Bihaeng (5) Gwanaksan Sky (4) Breedo Aqua (3) Race Diva
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) WITH DORTIE didn’t do much on debut in December but she was a much-improved 2nd at start number two over 1300M on January 3rd when settling midfield and running on. Third-up she can be peaking and the extra half furlong can be what she needs to get over the line. (9) GLORY JOY was only 6th in his latest appearance but before that registered a 2nd and a 3rd and with the former having come at this distance, that’s enough to have him in the numbers here. (4) DOUBLE BLADE and (5) BROWN SUGAR look to be figuring things out having both finished 5th at their respective latest starts and similar efforts can see them closer in this company. (1) AMOS CHOEGANG another who can improve.

Selections(2) With Dortie (9) Glory Joy (4) Double Blade (5) Brown Sugar
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) POWERFUL IMPACT has taken very well to 1700M, registering a 2nd and a 3rd in two outings since being stepped up to the trip. From a great draw he can sit on the speed or handy and today should his day. (7) STORM LIGHT was an improved 2nd at 1400M at start number three on January 10th. She steps up to two turns for the first time, and it can suit. (6) ECLIPSE BAY enters off a 6th and a 5th from his latest two, both over this trip and both times behind Powerful Impact. He led in those races and can lead again here and be in things a long way. (10) GOLDEN MAKER and (11) SPICE BAND are other place chances.

Selections(4) Powerful Impact (7) Storm Light (6) Eclipse Bay (10) Golden Maker
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(9) CHEONGSAN DOLPUNG is yet to win in four, but he has three 2nd places to his name with the latest coming at this class and distance on January 3rd when handy throughout and beaten by a good winner. He only comes up 1kg in weight and can sit handy again and this time go one better. (2) TIGER BULPAE is similarly a maiden but has a 3rd and two 2nd places from three outings so far at 1000M and 1200M. She comes up in class but is down in weight, she draws nicely, and she can measure up. Continuing the maiden theme, (5) MIRACLE SOCKS has four runner-up finishes but weakened when tried at 1400M last time out. Back in trip and with Maia staying on, he is a chance. (4) RAON SNIPER and (1) CRAZY MANGO others to consider on a place line.

Selections(9) Cheongsan Dolpung (2) Tiger Bulpae (5) Miracle Socks (4) Raon Sniper
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 1)

February kicks off with Sunday meetings at both Seoul (10 races from 10:35 to 17:55) and Busan (7 races from 11.25 to 16:55). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) SUPER TTANGKONG ran a fair 4th on debut over this distance on December 27th showing handy throughout. She should have come on for that run and form a good draw she won’t need to improve very much to win this. (1) RAON KINGSMAN was 5th in both his first two starts before weakening over 1300M late on last time out. In this company he should get a soft run to the front and can go close. Both (9) VINCENT ALEX and (11) PARKA SHINE come in following improved 4th place finishes on their respective latest outings, and both should be aiming to match or better that here. The three debut-makers didn’t really catch the eye in trials with (10) ONLY YOU looking the better of them.

Selections(4) Super Ttangkong (1) Raon Kingsman (9) Vincent Alex (11) Parka Shine
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) COMEBACK HOLYMOELY has made progress across his three starts so far with a 4th, 3rd and most recently a 2nd place on December 13th when he led for most of the way over this distance before being beaten by Haksan Sword. He draws well on the inside to lead again, and he is favoured to go one better. (4) SUPERDAY has similarly showed plenty with three top four finishes in three starts. He was a close 2nd over 1300M on December 28th and should be firmly in this. (3) ROAD TO HEAT was 3rd in that race having led. He’s been 3rd in both starts and should be there or thereabouts again from on the pace. (9) PARAIBA and (5) SEMYEONG PEAK others in the frame in a competitive race.

Selections(1) Comeback Holymoely (4) Superday (3) Road To Heat (9) Paraiba
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) PORT MORE comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd over 1400M on January 9th, showing handy throughout. He comes up to the mile for the first time but there is no reason why it can’t suit, Seo Seung-un stays on, and he will be favourite. (2) DOROTHY QUEEN enters off a career best 3rd when beating several of today’s rivals at this distance on January 18th and in this company can be aiming to match or better that here. (7) BREEDO CAPTAIN was 4th in that race. He also has a 2nd on his record at this distance and that’s enough to have him in contention today. (4) CARAT KING and (5) K ROYAL other minor money chances.

Selections(9) Port More (2) Dorothy Queen (7) Breedo Captain (4) Carat King
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) START UP was a winner on debut over 1000M in September and then returned in November to run 2nd at this class over 1200M. He makes his first start here in twelve weeks so he comes in fresh and while match fitness may be a question, he seems to have plenty of ability. (6) YONGBI SHINHWA is yet to win in six attempts but got promoted to this level with back-to-back runner-up finishes at this distance before running 4th on his first try at this class when unable to lead early as he likes. In this company he can get to the front and he can be in this a long way. (1) HAKSAN SWORD got a bit too far back early on January 10th but was a good winner in December (beating Comeback Holymoely who we should have seen in race 2) and he can get another chance here. (7) MUNHAK FIGHTER and (3) SMART HAESEONG others in the frame.

Selections(11) Start Up (6) Yongbi Shinhwa (1) Haksan Sword (7) Munhak Fighter
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start5, 6, 7 ,11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) POWERFUL RUBY will be favourite. After winning a trial she did nothing on debut but was a much better 4th at start two on January 2nd when handy throughout. She should have come on for that run and third-up she can be nice and fit for this. Speaking of doing nothing on debut, that applies to (2) CLUTCH RUNNER. He previously trialed well and Franco, who rode him in those heats but not on debut, climbing on catches the eye. (12) DIA X has plenty of experience and this is the kind of race he shouldn’t be far away in. (5) WORLD TRIPLE CAT and (10) QUEEN THE GOLD other place chances.  

Selections(4) Powerful Ruby (2) Clutch Runner (12) Dia X (5) World Triple Cat
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 31)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) COWBOY SOCKS was green on debut but still ran well for 4th place and was an improved 3rd at start two over 1200M on December 6th when finishing off very well. The slight step up in trip can suit, and she can win. (7) WINNER’S BLUE led for much of the way around on December 27th before ultimately running 3rd. He should have come on for the run and from a good gate can lead again and be in this a long way. Among the first timers, (2) MONEY MOVE and (11) DELTA EAGLE both hinted at ability in their trials and can be considered first up. (3) DONGBAEK was a fair 6th of twelve on debut and can improve.

Selections(9) Cowboy Socks (7) Winner’s Blue (2) Money Move (11) Delta Eagle
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7,

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) WISHMASTER has a 6th and a 5th from two starts so far, most recently at 1300M on December 28th when showing on pace. Third-up he can be nice and fit, and he has as good a chance as any here. (8) ROAD TO PERFECT ran 4th on debut over this distance on January 13th. He was a long way back behind a good winner but showed enough to indicate potential and he can go closer today. (11) CHAOS took three goes to qualify but when he finally did, he showed on pace in his trial and stopped the clock in a decent time. If he brings that form to the races, he will be competitive. (5) NIGHT GANGJA and (6) YEONDONG STAR others who could feature.

Selections(10) Wishmaster (8) Road To Perfect (11) Chaos (5) Night Gangja
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start1, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) MYUNG BRACING has improved across three starts so far, culminating in a close 2nd place at 1300M on December 21st. He has proven able to run well form on or off the pace and from a good draw, he can go one better today. (9) FIVE STAR has four finishes between 3rd and 5th with his latest two being over this distance. He likes to settle back and run on, and he will be challenging late here. (1) COSMO LONG has steadily improved over three outings to date, most recently a 3rd to Myung Bracing’s 2nd in that December 21st race. Coming into the inside gate, he should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (10) EUNHA KALAS and (4) CHEONGRYONG GIUN others in the frame.

Selections(3) Myung Bracing (9) Five Star (1) Cosmo Long (10) Eunha Kalas
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) JD GANGJA ran 4th and 5th in a pair of Listed Juvenile races before being down the field in the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie. He kicked off his three-year-old campaign by beating a few of these on his way to 3rd place at this class and distance on January 4th and he should have too much for this lot. (4) HAKSAN PRINCE got a long way back in that January 4th race before running on too late. He does have a 2nd place at this class and distance to his name as recently as November though and warrants another chance today. (2) MASTER KWAIGON returned from nine months out to get his maiden win over 1300M in December before finishing 6th on January 4th. Third-up this preparation he can be peaking and can get closer. (8) GOLD SPINNING and (6) HOLY KAISER among plenty of other chances.

Selections(5) JD Gangja (4) Haksan Prince (2) Master Kwaigon (8) Gold Spinning
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(3) CHAM BBAREUN MAL is yet to win but got promoted to this level after finishing 2nd in both his first two starts. He took a couple of goes to get accustomed to class 5 but enters off a solid 3rd place at 1200M on January 11th. A previous try at this distance saw him lead and then weaken but he could be ready for another go. (1) MONEY FOUR SEASON did nothing in his first five outings but being stepped up to two turns has been the making of him with a 2nd and then a win from his two tries at it. He is up in class but down in weight and he can measure up. (10) CUPID WORLD is yet to finish in the top two in fourteen tires but has seven finishes between 3rd and 5th and should be there or thereabouts again. (11) SUBMISSION and (6) BLUE RAIN other place chances.

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