Seoul

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

The capital city’s December schedule gets underway on Saturday with a 10-race program from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews for what threatens to be a snowy day:

There probably won’t be this much snow

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener with three racing for the first time and all of them tackling the six furlongs for the first time. (8) COMPLETE ANGEL will be a warm favourite. Having won a trial, she ran 6th on debut and then an improved 4th on her second start, both at 1000M and both in good times. The additional furlong shouldn’t be an issue and she won’t need to improve very much to win this. (3) MOONHAK EDEN also won her trial but could manage no better than 8th on debut on September 17th. She has had a couple of months off since then, draws well and can be a different prospect today. (2) FOUR ACE was quick on debut in August but had a tough time second-up a month later. She has been back to trial since then and looks worth another chance here with the additional distance likely to suit. (4) SEONGSIL PINK can also improve on her debut performance while of the first timers, (5) SPO BULPAE looks the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(8) Complete Angel (3) Moonhak Eden (2) Four Ace (4) Seongsil Pink
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) RAON THE QUALITY has hinted at ability across three starts so far with a 4th over 1000M her best. At her latest start at this trip on November 5th, she got a bit far back from a wide draw before rallying and from a much better gate this time, she can go much closer. (1) WONDERFUL TIZZY’s latest two outings have been much better than the bare fact of her 6th placed finishes suggest, posting a time faster than any of his rivals here have managed for the distance. An apprentice takes 3kg off his back and from a great draw he should be a big factor. (10) WONDERFUL MUSIC has only missed the top-five on one occasion from six starts. Her latest two have been her best with 2nd and 3rd place finishes both at 1300M and both times having led. The draw is not ideal but if she can find a handy position, she can be in this a long way. (9) CHOEGANG MIRAE was well-backed on his return from six months out at the end of October but didn’t make an impact. He can strip fitter here. (6) CHIMING BOY another in the frame.

Selections(4) Raon The Quality (1) Wonderful Tizzy (10) Wonderful Music (9) Choegang Mirae
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s hard to look too far past (6) GLOBAL KANGTA here. He’s shown steady improvement across four starts to date culminating in a 3rd place over this distance on October 29th when settling midfield and running on, stopping the clock in a good time. A similar run here would make him hard to beat. (8) SPRING WATER has shown significant improvement in his latest two appearances, both over 1200M and both times leading for much of the way around. He can be on pace again here and be in this a long way. (1) STAND BY ME returned from eight months out to run 6th of twelve in a good time over this distance on November 13th. He should strip fitter for that run and get closer here. (7) RAON THE FLATTER and (2) ARCH RIVER are among others who can be in the placing frame.

Selections(6) Global Kangta (8) Spring Water (1) Stand By Me (7) Raon The Flatter
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 8

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

Another warm favourite here in the shape of (7) MAGIC HOUR. A winner on debut over 1000M in October, he then ran a creditable 5th of eleven in the Listed Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy at this distance on November 6th. He comes back into shallower waters today and should prove too strong. (3) KING MOUNTAIN is yet to win in twelve attempts but has several near misses including a good 2nd place at class and distance in September. He likes to be on pace so is drawn well here and can be in this a long way. (2) POWER K returns to action for the first time since March. Before his lengthy layoff he was a winner over 1000M at class 6 level before running 3rd at 1200M and 1300M at this class. He looked well when leading in a November trial, crossing the line in a fast time and a bold showing first-up here is possible. (8) BEAT UP is up in class following a good maiden win at his distance last time out. (5) DESK TAP another in the minor money hunt.

Selections(7) Magic Hour (3) King Mountain (2) Power K (8) Beat Up
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Fillies only here and (8) MENI GOLD gets the nod. She stepped up to this distance last time out on what was his second go at this level, and he ran well, finishing a close 4th in a good time having sat handy throughout. With the small field the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can win here. (4) BOLD AGAIN is rapidly up in class having won her latest two at 1200M and 1300M, racing prominently in both and proving too strong. This is harder again, but she comes in very nicely weighted and from a good draw can get to the lead and stay on. (1) MAGIC GRACE is a three-time winner and was given her chance in the Korean Oaks this summer. She has won at this distance and can be a danger here. (7) CUPID JUMBO and (2) BS ENERGY others in the hunt.

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Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (November 27)

The Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup, the final leg of the Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares highlights Sunday’s racing program. A full field of sixteen, including nine who have travelled down from Seoul, will contest the 2000M main event, which is the final event on a 6-race card at Busan that runs from 12:15 to 16:40. See here for a horse-by-horse preview of the big race. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here is the race-by-race:

Golden Power and Raon The Spurt, who clashed in the Triple Tiara series, meet again in the final leg of the Queens’ Tour (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) SOMETHING LOST trialled up very pleasingly on October 28th, getting a smooth start and then cruising around in a fast time without being asked any questions. The experienced Wildly Romantic passed him at the end but it was a very good showing, he draws very nicely and if he can bring that form to the races, he has every chance first up. Experience follows this time. (7) CHALLANHAN BULKKOT ran a solid 3rd place on debut on October 30th, when settling in midfield and running on for 3rd. She draws a slightly better gate and can benefit from that experience. (1) DAEBAK SOCKS can also benefit from his debut on October 22nd when on pace throughout and ultimately running 4th. He draws the same inside barrier and can get closer. (8) MIGHTY SSEN was slowly away on debut but still posted a fair time. He has since looked good when returning to trial and can go better today. Returning to the debut-makers, (11) UPTOWN WHIZ won his trial and is entitled to support first-up.

Selections(4) Something Lost (7) Challanhan Bulkkot (1) Daebak Socks (8) Mighty Ssen
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens but with just two first-timers. (1) YUKWAEHAN SARANG won a September trial before finishing 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 9th when settling midfield and running on. The additional furlong can suit, and she can win. (11) META BLADE looks to be the main danger. After running 2nd on debut over 1000M, she stepped up to this distance on October 16th and dead-heated for 4th. Both times she has come from off the pace, so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she is sure to be working home well. Along with Meta Blade, the only other one to have previously tackled the 1200M is (5) WINNER YOUNG. His form is identical to that of Meta Blade with a 2nd at 1000M followed by a 4th at this distance. He can sit midfield and run into some money again here. (4) LONDON ACE and the first timer (4) MYEOLKONG other minor money hopes.

Selections(1) Yukwaehan Sarang (11) Meta Blade (5) Winner Young (4) London Ace
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(11) UCHEONGRYUNG has shown significant improvement in his latest two, finishing 4th and 2nd, at 1200M at 1300M. The wide draw isn’t ideal, but his style isn’t to lead, and he has a good finish on him compared to his rivals here. Kim Yong-geun climbs aboard and today can be his day. (2) GOOD CABO ran 6th behind Ucheongryung’s 4th on October 2nd having led for much of the way around. He draws nicely here, the same apprentice jockey keeps his weight nice and low, and he can be looking to get closer this time around. (9) BAEKDU MEOTJAENGI comes up in trip after two promising spins around 1000M. She has been on pace both times and will probably aim to get forward again. She can be in this a long way. (7) YEONHUI SARANG and (8) HWANGOO GANGJA others in the placing frame.

Selections(11) Ucheongryung (2) Good Cabo (9) Baekdu Meotjaengi (7) Yeonhui Sarang
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open proceedings on the south coast with four of the eleven racing for the first time. There will be a warm favourite in the shape of (7) CHANGCHANG DAERO. He’s raced twice so far, both at this distance and finishing 4rh and 5th when settling midfield and running on. Both times have been good, and he won’t need to improve very much to win this. There isn’t much obvious speed in this race so he may be taken to the front. (6) ARTHUR KING IJI was behind Changchang Daero on what was his second start on October 2nd. He drew wide that day but again, his time was perfectly adequate for the distance, and he can improve here following eight weeks off. Among the first timer starters, (3) BLUE MORE and (11) HWANGWOO MONEY both showed prominently in their trials. Neither time was that fast, but this is a nice race to debut in and bold showings first-up shouldn’t be discounted. (8) B.K. NUMA another potential improver.

Selections(7) Changchang Daero (6) Arthur King Iji (3) Blue More (11) Hwangwoo Money
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(6) BOSS BABY has been knocking at the door for some time and comes in off a 2nd place over 1200M and a 3rd over 1700M. He has run well at this distance too with the fastest time among any of these who have tackled it, recorded when 4th from gate twelve three starts ago. He can settle midfield here and can prove too strong. (7) NAOL KING raced twice this spring, registering a 2nd place over 1300M in the second of them. He hasn’t appeared since, but he looked very well when winning a trial two weeks ago and when on pace throughout and if he can bring that form to the races then he s a chance first-up here. (11) SARANG DAMOA has seven top-five finishes from twelve starts including each of her latest four. The draw shouldn’t be a problem as she has a fast finish on her, and she can maintain her consistent record today. (10) DEVIL K and (2) BLUE KAISER others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Boss Baby (7) Naol King (11) Sarang Damoa (10) Devil K
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 10, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on a first timer namely (4) BACKTOTHELEGEND. He went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them when he was on pace and stopped the clock in a fast time. He is out of Soseono, a good racehorse herself in Korea, and she can go well first-up. Of the experienced ones, the most convincing is (6) ONNURI CHUKJE. Unfancied on debut following a slow trial, he ran a solid 5th of twelve over 1000M on October 28th, running on well. He should have come on for the experience and the extra furlong can be in his favour. (1) HAPPY BLUE debuted at this distance on November 6th and while he only beat one home, it wasn’t a bad performance, and he can strip fitter for the run. Of the debut-makers, (10) CAPTAIN COMMANDO improved significantly in the second of two trials. (7) HANGANG SAVER another who can improve.

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener with all but one racing for the first time.  The experienced one goes on top though. (8) PHOENIX SERVE won a September trial and was sent off as favourite on debut at this distance on October 30th, leading for much of the way around before ultimately coming home in 3rd in a good time. She should have come on for that run, can be on pace again and this time can win. Plenty of the debut-makers showed well in their trials. They include (11) MILLION PARTY who sat handy and crossed the line as runner-up in her heat having drawn a similarly wide gate to today. (7) TOUCH CHARM was similarly on pace when trialling in October, also crossing the line in 2nd in a fair time and a bold showing can be expected first up. As ever in these kinds of races, keep an eye on the market where (5) FINE DAY and (1) BADEN BADEN will also be expected to feature prominently.

Selections(8) Phoenix Serve (11) Million Party (7) Touch Charm (5) Fine Day
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens again, this one open to colts and gelding as well as fillies, and all have raced at least once. Following an indifferent debut, (9) SECRET PLAY has put in back-to-back 3rd place finishes, the latter at this distance on October 16th when coming from off the pace and stopping the clock in a good time. Given his running style, the wide draw shouldn’t matter, and he has solid claims here. (6) POWERFUL HWASEONG has mixed his form across four outings to date. Two starts back he ran a strong 3rd in fast time at this distance when settling just behind the early speed. In his latest outing he was drawn wide and was slowly away and from a better gate can be given another chance today. Those are the two standouts. (11) LEGAL HIGH has improved across three starts so far, culminating with a 3rd place over 1000M when running on well a month ago. She comes up in trip for the first time and can go close. (7) THUNDER BRAVO and (10) GHOST CHARM others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(9) Secret Play (6) Powerful Hwaseong (11) Legal High (7) Thunder Bravo
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

One hundred and eleven starts for just six top-three finishes among this lot. (3) HAPPY NICE appears to have taken to this distance with a 3rd and a 4th in her latest two outings, most recently beating a couple of today’s rivals on October 29th when handy throughout. She comes in under the same weight, draws well and can win. (11) MY GONGJU has two 3rd places to his name and comes up in trip following the most recent of them over 1400M on October 16th. He has finished off his races adequately enough and the additional trip can suit. (8) HANI has knocked on the door a few times and her 5th place behind Happy Nice last time out when she came right from the back of the field in the straight, puts her into contention here. (10) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE is the only runner in the field to have a 2nd place finish to her name and she along with (2) EURO GANGJA are other potential placers

Selections(3) Happy Nice (11) My Gongju (8) Hani (10) Neoreul Eungwonhae
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

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

Two juveniles come up in class having run out impressive winners on their respective debuts and they will be at the top of the market here. (2) DOKKI BULPAE will be the one expected to prevail. Having made all in a late September trial in a fast time, he sat handy on debut before running on for an easy win without much effort. There should be plenty of improvement still to come and he’s the pick to maintain his 100% record. (5) BEST SUN went through a couple of additional trials before debuting but went well when he finally did on October 31st, he similarly sat handy before running on hard to win easily. Neither the class nor the distance rise should be a problem. (4) GEUMSEONG SPEED was a winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 3rd on her first try at this level when drawn wide and slowly away. She was a long way behind a good winner but from a better gate can give herself more of a chance here. (8) AL SIMON and (7) LONDON QUEEN among others in the minor money frame.

Selections(2) Dokki Bulpae (5) Best Sun (4) Geumseong Speed (8) Al Simon
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 7

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

Tricky handicap here. We’ll take a chance with (7) BICHUI DAERYUK, who has the fastest time among these for the distance, recorded two starts back when runner-up. She weakened a little having raced forward over 1400M last time out, but she is back in trip today and third-up this preparation may well be peaking. (10) GOLDEN HONOR is yet to win from five attempts but enters in good form with a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two at 1300M and 1400M. He likes to settle back and run on strong, so the wide draw isn’t a concern, and he has every chance here. (2) NEW CHEONGPA made all to win over this trip at class 6 level on October 1st before being ridden hard to get on pace from a wide draw before tiring over 1400M on his first try at this class. From a much better gate, he is worth another chance here. (1) HUIMANG CHAMP comes in off a couple of midfield finishes from his latest two, but his beaten margins haven’t been big, and an apprentice takes his weight down today. (6) CLASSIC STAR another who can enter the calculations in a competitive race.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 20)

Sunday’s racing sees 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:15 to 16:40. Feature races of the day are a pair of Listed Juvenile Trophies, one at each track. See here for a full preview of those two races and read on for the race-by-race:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens to open things with seven of the twelve – coincidentally all drawn from gate six and wider – racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (5) SUPER FINISH, the only one to have raced twice before. He ran 5th of ten on debut before going down a very narrow 2nd in a fast time at start number two on October 8th when handy throughout. He could have too much here. (3) HERO SARANG led for much of the way around on her debut on October 22nd, ultimately running 2nd, She should have come on for that run and can go close again. Among the first timers, (12) LUCKY BOUNCE is likely to get the most attention. He won his trial and while the time wasn’t especially fast, he looked competent enough and Moon Se-young being aboard will tempt some. (4) JEONGWOO FOREVER and (1) FINE CAMP may improve from their debut runs.

Selections(5) Super Finish (3) Hero Sarang (12) Lucky Bounce (4) Jeongwoo Forever
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Another set of juvenile maidens, this time with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (10) INDIANUI BYEOL was well-backed on debut following a trial win and he showed ability, running an on-pace 2nd in a fair time over this distance. He should have come on for the run and while he is drawn a little wider than ideal, but he might be too good here. (2) CATS EYE has also raced twice leading in both and running on well for 3rd in the second of them on October 8th. He is well drawn to lead again and should be in this a long way. (9) DASI TAEEONADO beat three of these in a trial before finishing a creditable 5th of twelve over this distance on debut on October 16th. She can have derived benefit from that experience and can improve today. Among the debut makers, (5) NAOL GONI ran a close 2nd in his trial while (11) ARA DAEJANGGUN is another who could go well first-up.

Selections(10) Indianui Byeol (2) Cats Eye (9) Dasi Taeeonado (5) Naol Goni
Next Best11, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden for fillies only. We’ll take a chance on (10) TOP POSITION, who after eight starts seems to be figuring things out and comes in off a smart 3rd place over this distance on October 16th. She doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw shouldn’t be too much of an issue and today can be her day. (6) BIG SMART has put in three very solid efforts in three starts so far, posting good times at 1000M and at this distance. She has tended to settle midfield, as finished off her races well, and she can be a big danger here. (7) CITY CHARM returned from six months out to run a good 4th over 1300M on October 22nd when handy throughout.  She should strip fitter for that experience and can match or better that here. (3) MAGIC MOCCASIN was 4th behind Top Position on October 16th, a race which she led. She draws well to be on pace again and once more should be in the race a long way. (12) P N S HER another in at least the minor money frame.

Selections(10) Top Position (6) Big Smart (7) City Charm (3) Magic Moccasin
Next Best12, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open proceedings on the south coast with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (3) ROCK AND ROLL is a half-brother to Korean Group race winner Mr. Afleet and he debuts here having run 2nd in a trial to Seungnimagic King, who won on his own debut on Friday (note his time in the trial was 1:02.3; some early editions of the race card may have a different time). He draws well, should be on pace and will be favoured to win. Of the experienced ones, (9) BURUICHUKJE looks the best. Just as she had done in her trial, she came from off the pace to run a close 2nd. She should have come on for the run and the additional furlong can suit. (7) SEONGSIL KING was slow away on debut over 1000M but picked up well to run 4th in a good time. He too may appreciate more distance to play with here. (6) GLOBAL SKY and first-timer starter (5) WITH SUN are others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Rock And Roll (9) Buruichukje (7) Seongsil King (6) Global Sky
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s hard to go far past (1) GOMANARU. After an indifferent debut, he has a 4th, 3rd and 2nd from three subsequent outings at distances up to 1400M, racing both on the pace and coming from midfield. He draws well here and can go one better. (6) BURUI SINHWA also looks ready to win. He comes in off an on-pace 2nd over 1200M on October 23rd and while he won’t necessarily lead in this company, he can settle close to the speed and run on. The solitary first time starter (4) CAMINO probably couldn’t have picked a softer race to debut in. He won an October trial exiting from the widest gate to sit midfield and then run on. The time wasn’t fast, but he won’t need to improve much on that to be competitive here. (7) EUREKA beat a couple of these on his way to 4th place last time out, a position he has finished in five of eight outings and may well do so again. (2) BEST PLAN another with placing claims.

Selections(1) Gomanaru (6) Burui Sinhwa (4) Camino (7) Eureka
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 19)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener and (4) G MOTION will be one of the banker favourites of the day. Having run 3rd on debut at 1000M, he stepped up to this trip for his second start on October 16th and duly ran 2nd in a good time, sitting handy and finishing well. He shouldn’t need to improve much, if at all, on that run to win here. (5) TAURUS QUEEN looked promising when 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 16th. That was in filly only company, but the time was fast and they way she finished off suggests that the additional furlong today should suit. (1) CHROMITE too finished off well for 3rd on both his previous starts over 1000M. He draws nicely here and should go close again. (3) ARGO RICH and (10) MONEY JANGGUN among others with the potential to improve.

Selections(4) G Motion (5) Taurus Queen (1) Chromite (3) Argo Rich
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens. (4) ULTRA GALAXY beat three of these on his way to a good 3rd place at this distance on October 22nd. That was his third start and his best finish to date. Expect him to settle midfield again and run on and he can come out on top here. (10) MORNING PRINCE has two 3rd places from three starts so far including last time out on October 9th when running on in a good time. The wide draw shouldn’t be an inconvenience, and he can be in the mix again. (5) EFFEL TAP improved to 3rd when tried at this distance for the first time on October 23rd. He should have derived benefit from the run, Moon Se-young stays aboard, and he has claims here. (9) POWERFUL SOCKS ran 4th behind Ultra Galaxy on October 22nd and while he gets a less favourable draw this time, the margin wasn’t big and it’s not impossible he could overturn that form. (3) BAEKDU BOY another in the frame.

Selections(4) Ultra Galaxy (10) Morning Prince (5) Effel Tap (9) Powerful Socks
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A regular maiden here and (4) SECRET KING should have too much. He comes in off a 2nd, 4th, and a 3rd from his latest three, all at this distance and all in good times. He draws very nicely to be on pace or handy and he will be hot favourite to prove too strong. (11) SSANG OK RU wasn’t ready when debuting in January, but he returned to action looking a much better individual when 3rd at this distance on October 23rd, leading for much of the way around. He should have benefited for that run and while the draw is wide, he can be a danger late on here. (2) ARCH MEMORY was 6th behind Secret King in her last outing on October 15th. That continued a consistent run of form, and a similar effort should see her in the frame here. (5) TOGETHER WAY and (7) PURPLE STORM the other logical placing chances.

Selections(4) Secret King (11) Ssang Ok Ru (2) Arch Memory (5) Together Way
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(10) HWARANG TODAY was a winner two starts back over 1200M at class 6 level before running 2nd at the same trip on his first try at this level on October 30th. He comes up 2kg in the weights but Moon Se-young climbs aboard and the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. He has every chance here. The main danger is (1) SURE WIN. Despite the name he has one just one of five starts so far but was a solid 3rd on his first try at this class over 1400M on October 23rd. He carries a very light weight again and from the inside gate, should be looking to get on pace right from the very start. (11) SPO BLADE comes up in class having won well from the front over 1200M on October 22nd. This is harder and the draw is not ideal but don’t rule out a bod showing. (4) GRAY THOR and (8) SAENAE HWANGJE among others firmly in the hunt in a competitive race.

Selections(10) Hwarang Today (1) Sure Win (11) Spo Blade (4) Gray Thor
Next Best8, 12
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 9

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

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President’s Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 13)

Sunday is President’s Cup Day. Click here for a full runner-by-runner preview of the most valuable race of the season that is restricted to Korean-bred runners. The big race is race 8 of an 11-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 12:15 to 16:45 with King Of The Match in the feature. Here are the previews:

Winner’s Man will be seeking to add the President’s Cup to his Korea Cup success (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener with six of the twelve racing for the first time. And among those debut-makers is the eagerly awaited (10) RAON EMPIRE. She’s half-sister to Raon The Fighter, currently the highest rated horse in Korea and she looked very well in two trials, crossing the line 1st in one and an unhurried 3rd in a fast time in the second when overcoming gate twelve. She will be a very short-priced favourite. (5) NAOL HAEGBOK did nothing on debut in June but was looked a better prospect when trialing up again behind Raon Empire in October. She should go better this time around. (1) YOUNGYOUNG SOCKS put in the best debut of those that have run before, showing on pace before finishing in the middle of the pack. She should have come on for that run and can improve here. (12) RED TAEPUNG should also improve from her debut while (4) WALGADAK looks the second best of the first timers.

Selections(10) Raon Empire (5) Naol Haengbok (1) Youngyoung Socks (12) Red Taepung
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(5) SUPREME STAR looks the one to beat here. Her best result to date came on debut but she has run well in two starts since including her latest when stepping up to this trip and posting a time as fast as any of the others here have managed when 5th. She sat handy that day which she will probably do again, and this time she can stick to her task. (2) DANAEUN ROSE has a 3rd and a 2nd from her first three outings. Her only poor result so far came when drawn very wide and being unable to find a position. That shouldn’t happen here as she can get an easy run to the front and can be in this a long way. (11) WORLD PLAY has run on pleasingly enough across three starts so far and is showing signs of improvement. He should be aiming to better the 5th place scored last time out at 1000M and can be running on late here. (3) VESPER and (7) NEVER NEVER STOP other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Supreme Star (2) Danaeun Rose (11) World Play (3) Vesper
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 10

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

(6) BLACK CHOCOLATE ran out an emphatic winner on debut over this distance on October 16th, settling midfield before cruising away in the home straight. He comes up in class today, but the manner of that win suggests there is more to come, and he is strongly favoured to maintain his 100% record here. (1) JEONGMUN PAPAGO got promoted to this level with back-to-back runner-up finishes at this distance before running 4th of twelve in a fair time on his first try at this class on October 9th. He can build on that here. (2) CONCORD QUEEN already has a 2nd place finish to her name at class and distance and from another good draw today can be on pace and in this a long way. (9) CHANCELLOR weakened late on at his latest start and may be better for being slightly back in trip today. (4) B. J. STORM another in the placing frame.

Selections(6) Black Chocolate (1) Jeongmun Papago (2) Concord Queen (9) Chancellor
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener on the south coast. (4) GOODY ran in improved 3rd at start number two over this distance on October 2nd having gone right back from a wide gate and then run on well. He draws inside for the first time here and if he can a little but more prominent, he could win here. (5) FINAL SEVEN enters with a similar record having also improved to 3rd on his second outing on October 9th. He too sat back and ran on and can continue his development here. (8) HAEUNDAE STAR also showed progress when racing for the second time He comes up in trip for the first time here and under a very light weight can be running on well. (3) FLYING TOUCH by contrast ran poorly at her second career start but based on her debut can be given another chance here. There are three debut-makers and among them, (1) MULTI HIT looks to have the best chance of an immediate impact.

Selections(4) Goody (5) Final Seven (8) Haeundae Star (3) Flying Touch
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with four of the nine racing for the first time. There’s going to be a hot favourite in the shape of (5) JANGBI MUJIGAE. The Hansen filly is making her third start here having run 5th and 3rd in her previous two, both in quick times. She has been settling midfield and running on but in this company may well be on the pace and she won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this. (9) MIR POINT has been 7th in both his outings to date but posted a quicker time in the latter, running through the line well. With some more natural improvement, he can be in this. The newcomers don’t exactly quicken the pulse although (7) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK ran well enough in his heat to suggest a bold showing first-up is possible. It’s hard to make a case for any of the other newbies based on their trials so (6) ANYANG POKKYEOKGI and (2) BEAT RACER are favoured to improve.

Selections(5) Jangbi Mujigae (9) Mir Point (7) Sidaeui Myeongjak (6) Anyang Pokkyeokgi
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens with four of the ten racing for the very first time. As in the previous race, we side with experience and (1) E-DANAEUN is set to be a warm favourite having run 5th of twelve on debut back on September 17th having drawn wide and then run on well. He doesn’t have the benefit of an apprentice claim today but that’s balanced somewhat by a much better draw and with some natural improvement, he looks the one to beat. Also drawing better at start number two is (4) SMARTY GLORY. She had to deal with gate twelve on debut on September 24th but ran on well to finish 5th in a fair time and with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. Look for improvement. (6) AMAN BAROWS was a well-beaten 6th on debut but the time was good, and he too can build on it here. As for the first timers, (3) SHARP SUNSHINE and (5) SAVANA CHARLIE looked the best in trials.

Selections(1) E-Danaeun (4) Smarty Glory (6) Aman Barows (3) Sharp Sunshine
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(2) MENI ACE ran twice at the start of the year, registering a 2nd place over this distance, before then being off for eight months. She returned on October 9th, again at this trip, when she settled back from the widest gate, before running on for a solid 5th place. She should strip fitter for that run, she comes into a better gate, and she will be favourite to score. That will mean overturning the form on (5) SERYUNG, who was 4th in that October 9th race, a length and a half ahead of Meni Ace. He comes up 2kg without the benefit of an apprentice claim, but he should be competitive again. (11) MAGIC JUDE appears to be figuring out what to do three starts into a return after eight months off. The draw is not in her favour but with a touch of luck at the start, she can be considered. (7) GANGCHEOL BUDAE and (1) WHITE WITCH others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Meni Ace (5) Seryung (11) Magic Jude (7) Gangcheol Budae
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(11) CUPID WARRIOR made all to win on debut over 1000M on October 2nd in a fast time. He comes up in class and in distance and while the draw does him no favours at all, the manner of that win suggests that with some natural improvement, he can maintain his 100% record here. (2) JAKDUKONG has been super consistent across her latest five outings, finishing either 3rd or 4th. That puts her up in class here but the counter to that is she is down in weight and draws very nicely. She can measure up here. (9) MEOTJIN GIROK returned to action following six months out on October 16th and ran a good 5th over this distance. He should strip fitter here and can get closer. (3) GOLD POWER, who can have a line drawn through his latest, and (5) DOLBAE among others int the minor money frame.

Selections(11) Cupid Warrior (2) Jakdukong (9) Meotjin Girok (3) Gold Power
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 11
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 5)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens. (11) RAON THE QUALITY has raced twice so far, doing nothing on debut but improving significantly at start number two on September 18th when 4th over 1000M, running on well. The step up in trip can suit and she can win here. (7) FARCIARZ ran well on debut over the minimum trip in early September before finding things tough in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy against the track’s best juveniles and drawing the car park in gate fourteen. He comes back into much shallower waters here and has strong claims. (9) VISION STAR and (8) WINNER DRAGON both ran 4th on their respective debuts with both running on well over five furlongs. They too may appreciate the additional furlong today. (2) BULUI NALGAE, who overcame a wide gate last time to run a decent 4th, is another in the hunt.

Selections(11) Raon The Quality (7) Farciarz (9) Vision Star (8) Winner Dragon
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start3, 7, 10, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens and (4) GEUMBITMA is the one to beat. After running 2nd on his second start over 1000M in August, he was given his chance in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy against the track’s best juveniles and defied big odds to run a creditable 6th of fourteen over this distance. A repeat of that performance will make him hard to beat here. (3) DRAGON STAR comes up in trip for the first time after three solid efforts over 1000M. He has been running through the line well on each occasion and from a good gate, today may well suit. (8) RAON AMERICAN stepped up to this distance for his second outing on September 25th and having settled midfield ran on well for 2nd. Of those who have tackled the 1200M already, only Geumbitma in the Munhwa Ilbo has posted a faster time and he can be in contention here. (9) HUNTER BLADE and (2) HIGH GRAND among plenty of others with placing chances.

Selections(4) Geumbitma (3) Dragon Star (8) Raon American (9) Hunter Blade
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW25 Million

Fillies (and one mare) here. (5) ANOTHER LEVEL debuted in March, posting two 3rd place finishes before not racing again until October 9th. She won a trial in the lead up to that event but having drawn wide and worked to a position behind the leaders, she weakened in the closing stages. She should have derived much benefit from that run and looks the one to beat here. The rest have patchy form. Under a light weight with an apprentice claiming 2kg, (10) GOLD KAISER might be worth a place chance. She has run fairly in two starts this preparation since returning from eight months off and could be peaking fitness wise here. (2) SHOOTING REVERSE has mixed her form across four appearances to date but does have a runner-up finish to her name at this distance and that’s enough to put her in the frame here. (6) DAESEUNG GAON and (3) RUFFIAN EAGLE are others who may enter the calculations.

Selections(5) Another Level (10) Gold Kaiser (2) Shooting Reverse (6) Daeseung Gaon
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

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

Moon Se-young climbs aboard another favourite here in the shape of (1) STRONG CHARM. He got his maiden win in comfortable fashion on October 9th when settling midfield and running on over 1200M. That was his third start and he had shown improvement on each of them and while up in class and distance today, neither should be a problem. The main danger looks to be the similarly well-drawn (2) MAPARAM. She was sent off at big odds last time out on October 8th but led for much of the way around, ultimately finishing 2nd. That was the first time in a while that she had been ridden forward and the draw couple with the small field should enable her to do similar today. (7) HUIMANG OREUM comes up in class having got her maiden win at the fourth time of asking on October 8th. That was a big improvement but was it was over this distance in a fair time, and she can hold her own in this company. (8) HIDDEN BLADE and (5) GEUMSEONG SEGYE others with at least minor money chances.

Selections(1) Strong Charm (2) Maparam (7) Huimang Oreum (8) Hidden Blade
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8


Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(2) NAOL CHEONJI made all to win on debut over 1000M on October 1st. She is up in class and in distance here but neither should be a problem and with Moon Se-young climbing aboard, she is sure to be well backed. It could be the battle of the “Naols” and (4) NAOL SESANG is up in class following her own maiden win on October 1st. She had made three indifferent starts at the beginning of the year but returned following over six months off looking much more the part and her win came at this distance. She was on pace all the way around and will be aiming to do similar here. (9) SAENAE QUEEN was a winner on debut in August before running 2nd from a wide gate on her first try at this class and distance on September 24th. She gets no favours with the barrier again but looks a strong place chance, nevertheless. (1) ELITE RULES and (10) BURUI GASOK among others to consider for the minors.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 29)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of them racing for the first time. (5) JUMONG CHEONHA is the pick having run 4th on debut at the end of August when handy throughout. He previously won a trial in a good time and with some natural improvement from his debut, can win. (7) CHROMITE went through a couple of trials before finishing 3rd on debut on September 24th. He never looked like getting to the first two but it was an encouraging performance that he should have derived benefit from. Of the first-timers, (2) SINPUNG YEOGEOL took a couple of trials to figure out what she was meant to be doing but she looked good in her latest at the end of September when she led throughout, ultimately crossing the line 2nd in a fair time. She draws well and should be ready for this. (4) YONGBI SEOUL and (3) HANGANG JILJU others in the frame.

Selections(5) Jumong Cheonha (7) Chromite (2) Sinpung Yeogeol (4) Yongbi Seoul
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens but just two of the ten are racing for the first time. There are a lot of letters in her name but (3) SEONGSILGONGJUPINK won a September trial before showing prominently in her debut on October 16th, ultimately finishing 3rd. She should have come on for that, Alan Munro climbs aboard, she draws well, and the additional furlong can suit. (6) THUNDER BRAVO has hinted at ability across three outings to date with the best being a 4th place at five furlongs in August. He draws much better than he did in his latest outing on September 25th when he had to contend with gate twelve but still worked home well for 6th place and he can improve here. (2) GLOBAL KANGTA finished 4th in that September 25th race having come from well off the pace. That was an improvement on his first two outings and he can continue to make progress here. (4) JAEWOO SIDAE and (5) SINUI BANJEON are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(3) Seongsilgongjupink (6) Thunder Bravo (2) Global Kangta (4) Jaewoo Sidae
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(12) RUNNER MONSTER beat four of these on his way to 2nd place at this distance on October 2nd when sitting midfield and then running on to be narrowly defeated. He comes up 3kg without the benefit of an apprentice claim today and he is done absolutely no favours by the draw, but a similar run will see him go close. (4) HEEMANG WARRIOR was 4th in the October 2nd race having been handy throughout. She meets Runner Monster better at the weights and with a better gate and is capable of overturning the form. We’ll need to take (2) BOSS BABY on trust as he has never run further than 1200M. His recent form has been his best so far, however, and from a good draw, there is a chance the extended trip can suit. (8) DAECHEON CHAMP similarly comes up to two turns for the first time. She ran on well for 5th at her latest outing over 1400M having settled well back and is worth some thought. (1) HAPPY NICE ran 3rd in the October 2nd race and is another in the hunt.

Selections(12) Runner Monster (4) Heemang Warrior (2) Boss Baby (8) Daecheon Champ
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(9) HANGANGUI GISANG won an August trial and then duly led practically from gate to wire on debut over this distance on September 17th. He had to work hard to see off a determined challenge but did so well enough. He comes up in class and will be expected to win again. That determined challenge came from (12) PURGE DAY who returned that day eleven months after his previous outing. He was 2nd throughout and as that wasn’t his first runner-up finish, he comes up in class too. He should measure up and be the main danger again but the draw is very much against him overturning the form on the favourite. (7) LONDON SKY enters off a good 3rd place at class and distance on August 21st and following a couple of months off can go well fresh here. (10) SMART POWER and (1) KING MOUNTAIN are others with at least place chances.

Selections(9) Hangangui Gisang (12) Purge Day (7) London Sky (10) Smart Power
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 11

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

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

No Stakes races but plenty of action at both Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:15 to 16:40). Here are the previews:

The Stakes race presentation stage won’t be in use this weekend (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener with six of the twelve racing for the first time. There are two standouts. The only one to have raced twice already is (4) TAKE MUSIC, who improved to 2nd place at start number two on September 24th in a fast time. She has led both outings so far, draws well to do so again and can win. (12) MAESTRA led on her debut on September 18th right up until the closing stages when passed by a couple. The only thing against her here is the wide draw, but if she can overcome that, then she has every chance. (10) COMPLETE ANGEL won a trial and then didn’t do too much wrong when finishing midfield on debut having shown on pace. She can improve. Here. A couple of the first timers caught the eye in their respective heats. (11) SEONGSIL TAEYANG and (3) YOUNGYOUNG SOCKS perhaps have the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(4) Take Music (12) Maestra (10) Complete Angel (11) Seongsil Taeyang
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens. There is just one first-timer starter, but we’ll take a chance on (12) CHOEGANG HYEONMA. He was slow away in his latest trial but worked home very nicely to cross the line in front. Starting out at 1200M should suit, the draw shouldn’t be too important, and Moon Se-young is in the saddle. (9) WINNER YOUNG was a solid 2nd on debut over 1000M on September 17th, running on from midfield He may appreciate the step up in trip here and can be considered.  (6) MONEY JANGGUN wasn’t fancied at all on debut but ran on strongly for 2nd place over 1000M and is another who can benefit from an additional furlong. (8) ARA MOA and (7) JANGHEUNG CLASS are others who finished off their respective debut races in good style and who can be considered for improvement.

Selections(12) Choegang Hyeonma (9) Winner Young (6) Money Janggun (8) Ara Moa
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Not the strongest of maidens. (3) BARAMUI GEOM has raced just three times with 5th places in his latest two, both over 1300M. In this company he can be expected to be on speed and with Moon Se-young climbing aboard, he will have plenty of backers. He perhaps has more potential for improvement than (7) MONEY STONE, who comes in having secured her best finish in eighteen starts when 2nd over 1300M on October 1st. It was only a narrow defeat, and she warrants respect here. (5) NOW NURI has the fastest time amongst these for the distance and while that isn’t saying much, that and a runner-up finish two starts back are enough to put her in the mix here. (8) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER and (2) TOGETHER WAY others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Baramui Geom (7) Money Stone (5) Now Nuri (8) Hampyeong Fighter
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open on the South Coast with six of the twelve racing for the firs time. We’ll side with experience though and (12) I WILL THE STAR was a front-running 2nd on debut over this distance on September 23rd in a fast time. The draw is not ideal, but she can overcome it and can win. (2) NINE FORCE ONE has run twice, improving to 3rd place on her second outing. She draws very nicely here and looks to be the main danger. (5) MOTHER MOUNTAIN was a solid 3rd on debut in a fast time over this distance before being slowly away and finishing in midfield on her second start over 1200M on September 18th. She drew the widest gate that day, but the draw is kinder here and back to the minimum distance, she can go close. Among the first timers, (10) DIA BOSS and (4) CONFIDENT performed adequately in their trials and may go well first-up.

Selections(12) I Will The Star (2) Nine Force One (5) Mother Mountain (10) Dia Boss
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(6) MAGIC JUDE returned from eight months out in August and has since run 3rd and 4th in two starts back, both at this distance and both times on pace or handy. He can lead again here form a good gate and can go all the way. (1) MACH STAR sat right at the back from a wide draw on debut over this distance on September 25th before running on very well for 4th. She should have come on for that run and from a much better barrier this time can go even closer. (2) EFFEL TAP has run fairly for two 6th places both over 1000M. He too draws well this time and can be on pace and be in this a long way. (5) MIGHTY ANN was 5th behind Mach Star in that September 25th race, continuing a run of consistent form which has seen four top-five finishes from seven starts so far. She likes to settle on the speed or handy and can play a big part here. (7) SEMYEONG CAPTAIN among others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Magic Jude (1) Mach Star (2) Effel Tap (5) Mighty Ann
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

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