Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Seoul
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million
Eight previously unraced two-year-olds get their first taste of racing here so we head to the trial videos. (3) FURIOSA led all the way around in her heat with a couple of today’s rivals qualifying behind her. The time wasn’t quick but she was on the bridle throughout, was unhurried and looked mature. If she brings all that to the races, she will win. (6) LUCKY POWER posted the fastest time of any of these in heats when finishing 5th of eight in her trial on May 13th. He was ridden a bit harder than Furiosa, but the four who crossed the line ahead of her are all experienced race winners and she held her own. That can have been a good experience and he can go well first-up. (2) NAOL HAENGBOK ran on from a wide gate for 4th in the Furiosa trial and from a good draw can go close. (5) DUSON CLASSIC and (7) TEMPLAR QUEEN others to look out for.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million
More juvenile first-timers. There was just a nose between (2) NAOL SNIPER and (6) WONPYEONG TOWN when they trialed up together back on May 13th, crossing the line in 3rd and 2nd in fair time. Naol Sniper was perhaps doing it a bit easier and with the inside draw he is the one to beat first-up here although both should go well and will probably be at the top of the market together. (7) GIANT PUNCH hinted at ability when 4th on nine in his trial, settling handy before dropping back and then running on. He too will have backers here. (4) GLOBAL POWER ran on well for 2nd in his trial, some way behind the proven racehorse who won the heat, but doing enough to suggest he has some prize money in him at this first attempt. (1) HANGANG ACE another in the hunt.
Selections
(2) Naol Sniper (6) Wonpyeong Town (7) Giant Punch (4) Global Power
Next Best
1, 8
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 7
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(8) MUSTANG CHARM is probably the one to beat here having followed up three consecutive 5th place finishes with a 2nd at this distance on May 21st when handy throughout. She can settle just behind the early speed here and could prove too strong at the business end of the race. (2) PERMISSION TO WIN has shown improvement across his three outings to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over this distance on May 22nd when he settled back and finished well He draws better today and can aim to match or better here. (4) INNER PEACE ran 3rd behind Mustang Charm on debut in that race on May 21st when on pace throughout. She has four-lengths to make up here but should have come on for that run and from a good gate will be on the speed again. (12) DAECHEON CHAMP and (3) GRAY THOR others in at least the placing frame.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(7) SUNGAN TOUCH comes up in class having scored his maiden win at start number four over 1200M on May 14th when leading from gate to wire. At the start before he registered a fast time at this distance when 3rd having overcome a wide draw. This is harder but he should be on the lead again and may take some beating. (8) BYEORAK comes back in trip following a couple of spins around 1700M. His sole win came at this trip and he looks nicely in here. (11) THE REAPER remains a maiden after ten outings but has four runner-up finishes to his name, including his latest over 1200M at this class on May 22nd. His running style means the wide draw won’t be an issue and he can challenge late here. (1) MIR BEST tries class 5 for the first time following his maiden score last month. In his case, it came at this distance and from the inside gate here, he should be able to drop in behind the early speed and challenge. (6) THUNDER HORSE another in the placing frame.
There are 9 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open with admission available on the gate. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Tricky maiden for three-year-olds to open with but we’ll side with the favourite. (6) MAGIC MOCCASIN has two 4th place finishes and a 3rd from three starts so far with the 3rd coming at her latest start at this distance on May 7th when handy throughout. It wasn’t a fast time but she draws well here to get to the lead and she won’t need to improve too much on that performance to win. (5) CLASSIC STAR ran a solid 3rd on debut in an all-filly race on April 16th. She should have benefited from that experience and with some natural improvement can run well again today. (1) CHANCELLOR improved at start number two on May 1st when running on pleasingly enough at this distance for 3rd and from a great draw on the inside, he can aim to bank some money. (2) LONDON MYEONGGA has the fastest time among these at the distance and can be competitive from a good draw. (7) K N TIZWON among others with placing claims
Selections
(6) Magic Moccasin (5) Classic Star (1) Chancellor (2) London Myeongga
Next Best
7, 8
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 6
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
More three-year-old maidens. (8) DAPHNE unseated her jockey coming out of the gate when coming out of the gate having been sent off as favourite at this distance on May 29th. She was due to be first-up that day following almost six months out and had trialed nicely. She completed the course under her own steam that day and as long as that didn’t take too much out of her, she can be given another chance here. (1) DAECHEON BEAUTY has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place last time out at this distance on May 14th when on pace throughout. He draws the same gate today and can go well. (7) GANA FASHION was a good 2nd on debut at this distance on May 15th when settling forward, then dropping back and running on. She was well beaten by a good winner but it was encouraging nonetheless and a repeat of that run will see her in the finish again. (11) TOP POSITION and (3) CHAPEL PRINCESS can enter the calculations too.
Selections
(8) Daphne (1) Daecheon Beauty (7) Gana Fashion (11) Top Position
Next Best
3, 6
Fast Start
3, 6, 7, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
A weak maiden but accordingly a very competitive one with no standouts but plenty of possibles. We’ll take a chance on (7) BARO QUEEN, who carries a lighter weight and draws a better gate than in her recent outings. She has two 3rd places to her name, has enough early speed compared with the rest of these to get to the front, and she has as good a chance as any. (1) QUEEN OF RACING has been relatively consistent across her most recent starts. She too draws well to contest the early lead and she will be in this a long way. (2) BURUI JILJU has mixed his form in his four starts so far but has hinted at ability with his 3rd place in a fair time over 1200M two starts back. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races but the additional half furlong today may suit. (6) TIZ FIGHTING and (9) EUREKA among others in minor money contention.
Selections
(7) Baro Queen (1) Queen Of Racing (2) Burui Jilju (6) Tiz Fighting
Next Best
9, 4
Fast Start
1, 6, 7, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(8) JAY PHOENIX debuted with an encouraging 3rd last December but didn’t reappear until May 8th when he made all to win by a full nine-lengths over this distance. He comes up in class today but the manner of that victory suggests that there is more to come and he has to go on top here. (3) COMPLETE TIME looks the logical second-pick. She races for the first-time since March 13th when she came from a wide gate to run 3rd in a fast time at this distance. She draws better here and even comes down slightly in the weights, and she can play a big role. (5) BLOOD MOON also gets a better draw than she did when 5th on her first try at this class on May 8th and can go closer today. (6) LONDON SKY has two 4th place finishes in two attempts at this class, both over today’s distance and both in times good enough to make him a contender here. The up in class (4) HWIPARAM another who will be on the early speed and who can be considered.
The Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares gets underway on Sunday and Raon First will be hot favourite to score in the Ttukseom Cup (1400M KOR-G2). There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:35 to 16:15. Here are the previews:
Raon First will be favourite for the Ttukseom Cup (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener and (11) MARUMA is the one to beat. He has the fastest time among these at the distance, recorded at his last start on April 23rd when he sat in 3rd place the entire way around. The wide draw shouldn’t be too much of an issue and he won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. (10) TRIPLE JOY has raced fairly in two starts so far, finishing in 3rd and 5th. He steps up to this distance for the first time and can make further progress. (9) OCHEONBOK has come from off the pace in both of her races to date, finishing 4th and then 2nd, the latter at this distance on April 30th. She has posted impressive final furlong times and so long as she doesn’t get too far back, can be a danger late on. (1) GEUMA CHIC and (7) KING HONOR are others to take into consideration.
Selections
(11) Maruma (10) Triple Joy (9) Ocheonbok (1) Geuma Chic
Next Best
7, 12
Fast Start
6, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(1) ACE PLAN has looked to be working towards a win from his latest few appearances, culminating in a 3rd place last time out on May 21st when he was an on-pace 3rd at this distance. He returns just two weeks later and from a better draw, should be on or close to the pace from the start and he will be favoured to win here. Coming out of the opposite end of the gate will be (12) APPLE MINT. He has started to hit some form in his latest two and an apprentice jockey brings the weight down considerably today. He has settled midfield or worse in those two recent outings so the wide draw may not be too much of an inconvenience. (6) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE has four to-five finishes from six outings to date and can continue her solid run of form following a last start 3rd. (7) FLYING BARBIE and (11) TORUK MAKTO others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(1) Ace Plan (12) Apple Mint (6) Neoreul Eongwonhae (7) Flying Barbie
Next Best
11, 4
Fast Start
1, 6, 10, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
A competitive maiden for three-year-olds gets things underway on the south coast. We’ll go with (8) WORLD FOUR A, who after participating in a fast trial to qualify in April, ran a good 2nd on debut at 1200M on May 22nd when he was on pace throughout and led in the straight. He should have come on for that run and with some natural improvement can win here. (4) TRIPLE THUNDER is yet to finish any worse than 5th in four career outings. He was an on-pace 2nd at this distance on May 8th and form a nice draw, will be expected to be on the early speed again and to be in this a long way. (11) DOCTOR PERSIA has run fairly across three starts. He got a long way back last time out but ran on well enough for 5th and if given slightly more of a chance here, can get closer. (2) MAHAMERU and (1) WIND WINNER are others to consider.
Selections
(8) World Four A (4) Triple Thunder (11) Doctor Persia (2) Mahameru
Next Best
1, 9
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(12) GLOBAL PRIME returned from a couple of months out to run an improved 2nd in what was an admittedly slow race at this distance on April 10th. He had hinted at a bit of speed before though and despite the wide draw, in this company, he has every chance. (4) SPEED GALLOP has finished outside the top-five only once in five attempts so far. At her latest appearance back in February, she ran a good 3rd at this distance in an all-fily race having sat back from a wide draw. She comes in fresh here and can go close. (2) YONGCHEON JISANG was a much-improved 2nd at start number three on May 8th at this distance. He should have come on for that experience and can aim for at least the places again. (8) EPIPHANY and (6) KING MOUNTAIN are among others who may be considered for the minors.
Selections
(12) Global Prime (4) Speed Gallop (2) Yongcheon Jisang (8) Epiphany
Next Best
6, 3
Fast Start
5, 6, 11, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Fillies (and two mares) only here. It’s a full sixty-seven weeks since we saw (7) BLACK OLIVE make her one solitary appearance, but it was memorable as she led from gate to wire over 1000M scoring comfortably. Her setbacks hopefully behind, she caught the eye when fairly bolting up in a barrier trial in late April and having won first-up before, she can do so again, especially as she gets another crack at class 6 what with that race last year being run for significantly reduced prize money. (12) FANTASTIC MAGIC has hinted at ability across seven outings so far. She ran a good 4th at her latest on May 15th and can be running on well here. (9) HAPPY SONG SONG seemed to take a few goes to figure out what she’s supposed to do but she now has a pair of 3rd place finishes and a 4th from her latest three. (11) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL and (5) TAKE ADELE others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(7) Black Olive (12) Fantastic Magic (9) Happy Song Song (11) Seungriui Bulgil
Next Best
5, 4
Fast Start
5, 6, 7, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
A competitive race here with two standouts. We’ll tentatively side with (2) WILD SOCKS. He was a winner at this distance at class 6 level and comes in off a good 2nd place at 1300M at this class on May 21st when he settled midfield and ran on. He draws nicely here and can win. The big danger in (5) WONDERFUL KITTY. She may be yet to win in six starts but has three-runner-up finishes to her name, including on her latest start at class and distance on May 8th when, as has tended to be her style, she went right back and finished fast. An apprentice jockey brings her weight right down today and that could be crucial when she launches her late challenge. (10) TOUCH NINE comes up in class after a good win over this distance on May 15th. He drew wide that day as well and can measure up in this company. (9) GLOBAL BOBAE and (6) RIVER TAEYANG are others in the hunt.
Selections
(2) Wild Socks (5) Wonderful Kitty (10) Touch Nine (9) Global Bobae
Next Best
6, 1
Fast Start
3, 4, 6, 8
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
It’s hard to go too far past (11) DONGBU WORLD here. While he does remain a maiden after five attempts, he is yet to finish outside the top-four and has three runner-up finishes. That includes his latest outing, which was at this class and distance on May 13th when he was on pace throughout and went down narrowly. He does come up 2kg in the weights and may need a touch of luck at the start, given the wide draw, but he is still the one to beat. (3) ACE GUY races for the first time since last September. He had put together a good run of form before the layoff and looked well when trialing up at the end of April. He has a strong finish on him and a bold-showing is possible first-up here. (6) YOUNG BOSS has got a bit far back in his latest two races but there is ability there and he has won at this distance. He may be worth another chance here at a probable each-way price. (5) MONEY BAG and (1) MAJOR FORCE among others with placing chances.
Selections
(11) Dongbu World (3) Ace Guy (6) Young Boss (5) Money Bag
Next Best
1, 8
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 11
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (5) SIRIUS ALPHA got her maiden win two starts back over 1200M at class 6 level with an on-pace run and then overcame the widest gate to lead until the closing stages on her first try at this level over 1400M on May 1st. She looks nicely in here from a better draw to get to the lead and she may well go all the way. (3) WILD RUNNER comes up in class following smart win over 1200M when odds-on favourite at start number three on April 23rd. She stalked the leader before striking the front a furlong out and running away for a comfortable win. This is harder but she draws well to be on pace again and should measure up in this company. (4) CONCORD QUEEN weakened when in a promising position over 1400M on her first try at this class on May 1st. She was favourite that day having been a strong winner at class 6 over 1200M the time before and can be given another chance today. (8) CHEONEUNCHONG and (7) RISING HAWK others to look out for.
The second leg of the Stayer Series, the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3) highlights the 11-race Sunday card at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there is a class 1 sprint headlining the 6-race program from 12:00 to 16:45. Click here for a runner-by-runner guide to the YTN Cup. Here is the race-by-race:
Moonhak Chief won the YTN Cup during his breakout 2019 season (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open the program with four of the twelve racing for the very first time. (7) DAPHNE has hinted at some ability when 3rd over 1000M at start number three last December. She hasn’t raced since but looked well when 2nd in a trial on May 6th and from a likely on pace position, she has as good a chance as any here. (3) OKCHEON CHOEGANG has finished in 4th place in both outings so far, both of them over this distance and most recently when beating a couple of today’s rivals on April 30th. He’ll be challenging Daphne for the early lead and has every chance of going all the way. (6) CHOEGO BLACK was 5th behind Okcheon Choegang on what was his debut on April 30th. He should have come on for that run and can get closer today. Of the first-time starters, (4) EURO TEUKGEUP improved in his second trial and from a great draw can go well first up. (9) KINGS EYE another in the frame after an adequate debut.
Selections
(7) Daphne (3) Okcheon Choegang (6) Choego Black (4) Euro Teukgeup
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
1, 2, 3, 7
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Filly maidens only here. (5) TIFFANY BLUE looks to be the one to beat following an on-pace narrow runner-up finish over 1300Mon April 10th. She has run well at this distance too and with an apprentice jockey taking 3kg off her back, she looks extremely well in here. (6) SWEET KAKAO similarly gets the benefit of an apprentice claim, in her case a full 4kg. That brings her down from her back-to-back 4th places in her latest two where she has settled behind the early speed and run on. There isn’t much early speed here so she should be on the pace and can go all the way. (10) NAMSAN KKOT was 5th behind Sweet Kakao on her latest appearance on May 1st having run 4th the time before that and should be in at least the placing frame here. (2) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER and (11) NAEGILUI BYEOL are others who can enter the calculations.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
It has been a full forty-nine weeks since we last saw (7) VICTORY SAM in a race. He did quite well that day to, running 2nd over 1000M on her third career outing. She has had setbacks since but seemed very much over them with a bold showing in a trial on April 22nd when she led from gate to wire. She couldn’t really pick a nicer race to return in and despite her absence, she will be a strong favourite here. (4) SHINE MUSIC is yet finish in the top-two places in fifteen starts but she has shown some consistency in her latest few outings and comes in off a useful enough 5th at her latest start on May 8th. She can settle behind the early leaders here and run into some money. (3) FAMILY CAPTAIN has a 2nd place to his name at this distance three starts back and after two indifferent spins when carrying 56kg, gets a 4kg allowance with an apprentice climbing aboard. That should bring him into the placing frame here. (12) GLOBAL CASTLE and (2) BEST BIG BANG are others in the hunt.
Selections
(7) Victory Sam (4) Shine Music (3) Family Captain (12) Global Castle
Next Best
2, 5
Fast Start
3, 5, 7, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old filly maidens in the South Coast opener. (1) QUEEN ALLIE gets the nod following an encouraging debut over 1200M on May 6th when she settled back before running on well for 2nd place. She should have come on for that run, she has a great draw, and the additional half furlong should pose no problems. (8) HANEUL JILJU has improved across her three starts to date, culminating in 3rd place last time out when leading until the closing stages. She will be on pace again and should be in this a long way. (5) ALL CROWN already has positive experience at this distance, running a good 2nd at it on her latest appearance on March 20th. She settled back and ran on and similar can be expected here. (9) STAR CATCH ad (2) CROWD ONE are others with at least placing claims.
Selections
(1) Queen Allie (8) Haneul Jilju (5) All Crown (9) Star Catch
Next Best
2, 6
Fast Start
2, 6, 8, 10
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies only here and while plenty enter in good form, (7) RAON THE WEEKEND is the one to beat. Her solitary win to date came at this distance in a good time at class 6 level three starts back and since then she has run well in two attempts at this level. First, she overcame gate thirteen to get to the speed but ultimately end up 6th over 1200M and then most recently, on April 9th, went right back after a slow start but finished off well for 4th. With a better start today, she will prove hard to go past. (4) INVICTUS is the logical second pick. Her win over 1200M at class 6 at the beginning of April had been coming and she showed she can measure up at this level when 4th over 1400M on May 1st. She can sit on the speed or settle back and run on and should be a factor here. (2) GREEN JJANG took a couple of tries to get to grips with this level but has been coming back into form in her latest two, especially her last start 2nd at 1200M. From a good draw, she can be on the speed here and go close. (11) CUPID JUMBO and the up in class (6) V QUEEN among others in the hunt.
Selections
(7) Raon The Weekend (4) Invictus (2) Green Jjang (11) Cupid Jumbo
Next Best
6, 5
Fast Start
2, 3, 7, 9
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(7) GEUMA INFINITE ran a solid 3rd place on debut over 1300M on May 8th when settling midfield and finishing off well. The additional half-furlong should suit and with some natural improvement from that run, he should be winning this. He will be a hot favourite in a field where the form of the rest is less than convincing. (2) BOUNTY HUNTER doesn’t look in any danger of winning a race, but he has picked up minor money on five of eleven occasions so far. An apprentice brings him down 3kg in the weights here and from a good draw, he can be aiming for a career best finish. (10) MILK DAY too has been loitering around the minors, most recently beating a couple of these on his way to 4th place over 1300M on May 13th. The wide gate shouldn’t matter, and he looks a solid placing chance. (5) THE PRINCESS and (8) YEONGGWANGUI RIDER others who can find some minor money although the latter does tend to save his best for barrier trials.
Selections
(7) Geuma Infinite (2) Bounty Hunter (10) Milk Day (5) The Princess
Next Best
8, 4
Fast Start
4, 6, 8, 10
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
After seven top-five finishes, it’s about time (7) REMARKABLE finally came home in top. He enters after back-to-back 3rd places at class and distance, both in good times and once more carries a light weight. He draws fairly, and today can be his day. (6) NONSTOP CAT enters off two consecutive runner-up finishes at class and distance, both times having been drawn wide. From a better gate today, he can pose a threat again. (1) K N SKETCH is up in class following a maiden win over 1300M on May 1st when he sat behind the leader before taking things up just before the furlong pole and never looking back. He draws well for Antonio to sit handy here and he should measure up at this level. (12) COMPLETE WEAPON was a winner at start number two at 1200M on April 2nd. It wasn’t a fast time, but he looks to have potential the wide draw isn’t too much of a concern. (5) CONCORDE SPURT among others with placing chances.
Selections
(7) Remarkable (6) Nonstop Cat (1) K N Sketch (12) Complete Weapon
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open with reserved seats available for reservation through the MyCard app or general admission on the gate. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million
The two-year-old races are finally upon us and that means for the first time in a few months, we are back to having five-furlong juvenile races for big money. It’s to the trial videos we head and after watching them, it is hard to put anything other than (8) LION HEAD on top. The only filly in the race, she won her heat very pleasingly, registering a good time on a slightly wet track. If she brings that form to the races, the wide gate will be irrelevant, and she should win. (2) NUT PLAY came through the same heat, crossing the line a full second and a half slower than Lion Head but having to work around from the outside gate and making up ground late. He draws well here and can be considered. (5) WONPYEONG KILLAR came through a very slow trial but did cross the line in 2nd place. Expect him to be up with the early lead here and run on. (7) WONDERFUL CARO was also on pace in his heat and for a top stable a bold showing will be expected first-up. (4) WHITE NUMBER ONE another who posted a fair time when qualifying.
Selections
(8) Lion Head (2) Nut Play (5) Wonpyeong Killar (7) Wonderful Caro
Next Best
4, 1
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 8
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Back to the three-year-old maidens here although five of the twelve are racing for the very first time. It’s very competitive but we’ll tentatively side with experience and opt for (5) GAGIMAN GODANG. He didn’t do much on debut but improved enough at start number two on April 24th when sitting handy and running through the line for 3rd over this distance. If he continues to improve, he can win here. (2) WORLD CHARM looks the pick of the first-timers. He was on pace in his trial, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd in a fair time (the heat was won by juvenile Lion Head, who is entered in race 1, so by the time this race goes to post, we may have a clearer picture of how impressive or otherwise it was). He draws well to lead and should go well. (7) DEVIL K won his heat and while the time wasn’t hugely quick, that’s enough to give him a chance first-up in this company. (3) FLY JENNY went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them. Her dam was a very good racehorse and has produced one decent one so far, K Top King. (8) GEUMSEONG CROWN isn’t a first-timer but hasn’t raced since last November. He has a 3rd place to his name and won a trial just last week so should be kept safe.
Selections
(5) Gagiman Godang (2) World Charm (7) Devil K (3) Fly Jenny
Next Best
8, 10
Fast Start
2, 4, 5, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(7) CHEONGSAN YEONGUNG has five top-five finishes from eight starts so far and steps up slightly in trip following a good 2nd place over 1300M on April 24th when handy throughout. While this is his first try at seven-furlongs, he has already raced around two-turns, running 4th over 1700M two starts back from a wide draw so this can suit, and he can win. Logical second pick is (8) TTEOOREUDA. She’s steadily improved across her four outings to date and ran on well for 2nd place over 1300M on April 30th. She is another for whom the slightly extended trip can suit and with a strong finish on her, she can settle midfield and run on here. (12) ECHO ZONE draws the car park, but he came from off the pace last time out to run 3rd at 1200M, so it may not matter too much. He has improved his finishing position in all his four appearances and further improvement shouldn’t be ruled out here. (2) SAEROUN BITKKAL and (9) EUNHYE RECORD others in at least the placing frame.
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
This is a very competitive race. We’ll go with (11) ICE STAR, a winner of two from thirteen so far ad who enters in reasonable form, coming back in trip following a 2nd place at 1400M in March and a 4th over 1700M in April. He draws wide but he has the best finish of all of these on him and has run well at this distance in the past. (9) ENERGIZER has mixed his form but returned to action following a seven-month layoff with a string runner-up finish at class and distance on April 30th when he led for almost the entire way around. He hasn’t always been on pace in his races, but his solitary win came that way and he should be aiming to get forward again here. (6) B.J. STORM comes up in class having won on debut on April 23rd over 1200M when tracking the leader throughout and running on well for a narrow victory. This is harder but he draws well again, comes down slightly in the weights, and with some natural improvement, can be in this. (1) SONGAM RACER and (2) QUEEN LION are among others in the hunt.
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(2) K N UNDERKING has finished no worse than 6th in six starts with his solitary win coming at this distance last October. He enters in good form and in this company and with this draw should be looking to be close to the pace and he can prove too strong late on. (5) MIGHTY GOOD looks the logical main danger. He came from well off the pace to get his maiden win over 1200M two starts back before running 4th on his first try at this level, over 1400M on April 24th, again coming from a long way back. If anything, he can get a bit too far back in his races but if he can be within touching distance at the top of the straight, he has a big chance here. (1) LUXURY KING has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and he hasn’t been too far away in recent outings. He draws very nicely on the inside to take a sit behind the highly speed and should be working home well. (10) BICHUI DAERYUK and (9) YONGAM BOSS among others who can enter the calculations in another competitive race.
Can Hit Yegam upset Raon The Fighter in the SROA Chairman’s Trophy? (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Big field of three-year-old maidens in the opener. The one to beat is (4) BLUE INDY. Having trialed up well, he ran 3rd on debut over this distance on April 23rd, when settling midfield and finishing off well. With some natural improvement here, he may be hard to beat. (10) BURUI JILJU showed significant improvement at start number three on March 27th when settling right back and running on strongly for 3rd in a fair time on a wet track. The manner of that run suggests the wide draw won’t be a problem and he should be running on strong again. (2) EUNHYE GUY was ordered back to trial after his debut last place on March 19th. He looked a completely different prospect when passing that trial on April 29th and from a much better draw, compared to the widest on debut, he may go much better. (9) PERMISSION TO WIN and (1) NB JEONSA are others to consider.
Selections
(4) Blue Indy (10) Burui Jilju (2) Eunhye Guy (9) Permission To Win
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 2, 6, 12
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
The first division of a split maiden. (9) TROT QUEEN has steadily improved across six starts to date with her best two finishes coming in her latest two with a 3rd place at 1300M and then 2nd at 1200M, the latter having led almost the entire way around on April 17th. She was favourite that and will probably be so again and this time she can go one better. (4) EAST MAGIC comes in following his joint-best finish so far when 4th at this distance on April 2nd. From a good draw he can join Trot Queen on the early speed and should be in this a long way. (6) SINJURYU has gone well in his latest two and the engagement of an apprentice today brings his carried weight right down. He can settle handy or midfield and has the fastest final furlong average time in the field so should be running on strong. (8) GEOLJAK MAN and (5) POSA POSA are others in the hunt.
Selections
(9) Trot Queen (4) East Magic (6) Sinjuryu (8) Geoljak Man
Next Best
5, 7
Fast Start
3, 4, 6, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
The second division of the split maiden. It’s not a strong race so we’re prepared to take a chance on one of the two first-time starters, (2) RED WARRIOR. He was on pace throughout his heat, eventually crossing the line in 2nd place and while it wasn’t a fast time, he is not exactly facing a lot of speedy types here. He gets a great draw, and the stable is in form. (1) DOWN THE ZONE took a few goes to figure things out but her latest two have been fine efforts, finishing in 3rd place on both occasions, both at this distance and both stalking the leader. She draws well again, carries the same weight, and could well start as the betting favourite. (4) OKDONG GONGJU has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before. She comes in with her recent form reading consistently and looks set to be in the finish here. (3) QUEEN OF RACING and (6) GLOBAL STORM others who can compete for the minor money.
Selections
(2) Red Warrior (1) Down The Zone (4) Okdong Gongju (3) Queen Of Racing
Next Best
6, 10
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 9
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies in the South Coast opener and it’s a small but tricky field. (4) HAENGBOKAN HAMAN ran 4th on debut over 1200M on April 29th having been handy to the speed throughout. She should have come on for that run, she draws nicely again and is a leading contender here. (3) GOLD SWEET has a 2nd and a 4th to her name from three appearances so far with the 2nd, both of those coming at 1200M. She ran on pace in both of those and is nicely drawn to compete for the early lead again and to be in this a long way. (5) TWO TWO BRAIN and (2) GAMDONG ENERGY came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at 1200M on April 22nd. Two Two Brain came from off the pace while Gamdong Energy was up with the leaders throughout although the former ultimately came off best by three-lengths. Both can be in the hunt here. Among the rest, (6) EURO STAR perhaps has the potential for improvement.
Selections
(4) Haengbokan Haman (3) Gold Sweet (5) Two Two Brain (2) Gamdong Energy
Next Best
6, 1
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 6
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only here and (9) CHEONMA BISANG is set to be hot favourite. Her solitary win came two starts back at this class in a similar all-filly affair at this class and distance before running 4th, again at class and distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She is yet to finish outside the top five and her style means the relatively wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. She can settle back and be too strong in the run here. (2) SILVER STAR hinted at a return to form at her latest start in a similar race to this on April 2nd when settling midfield and running on for 4th. She draws well here and should be available at an each-way prince. (11) HAPPY MIX finished well back behind Cheonma Bisang two starts back but that has been her only poor showing to date. She led in her latest at class and distance on April 24th, ultimately finishing 3rd, and while drawn wide and up slightly in weights, can be in the mix today. (8) ONE MORE RUSH and (4) WONDERFUL SAM are others to consider.
Selections
(9) Cheonma Bisang (2) Silver Star (11) Happy Mix (8) One More Rush
Next Best
4, 7
Fast Start
1, 7, 8, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
This is a weak maiden. (9) SINUI JEONSA raced twice without distinction around the turn of 2020 and 2021 and then did not reappear until this spring. When he did, he looked a much better prospect, showing well in a trial before running 3rd on his racecourse return over this distance on April 24th, sitting on pace throughout. With the same apprentice keeping his weight light, he is the one to beat today. (2) WORLD FOUR A will get plenty of backers. Not only is he from the Kim Young-kwan stable, but he is also a half-brother to World Day (nine wins from nineteen) and he ran a fast time in what was admittedly a fast run trial. He draws well and couldn’t ask for a better race to debut in. (8) BLUE CAPTAIN comes in having run 3rd at this class over 1300M on April 15th having led early. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and can aim for at least the places again here. (4) VICTORY NINE and (3) DOCTOR PENTAGON are others in the minor money frame.
Selections
(9) Sinui Jeonsa (2) World Four A (8) Blue Captain (4) Victory Nine
Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open with tickets available on the gate for general admission areas or on the app for reserved seating. Here are the previews:
The crowds were back in force last weekend (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies only kick things off. Four of the eleven race for the very first time and one of them is going to be the favourite and the pick. (8) DREAM K initially trialed up very well last August but didn’t make it to the races. She re-trailed in April, winning her heat in a fast time, having settled back in the early stages and then quickened pleasingly. The distance should suit, Moon Se-young is booked to ride and if she brings that trial form to the races, she should win. (5) MUSTANG CHARM has been consistent across four starts so far with three of them resulting in 5th place finishes, all at this distance and in fair times. With some natural improvement here, she looks a place hope. So too (7) TOP POSITION, who has improved across her three outings to date, most recently a 3rd place at 1300M on March 20th when settling midfield and running. If she continues her recent trajectory, she can be in the finish today. (2) P N S SING and (10) TWOTWO KITTEN are others in at least the minor money frame.
Selections
(8) Dream K (5) Mustang Charm (7) Top Position (2) P N S Sing
Next Best
10, 6
Fast Start
2, 5, 7, 9
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
A small field of maidens with (6) GORGEOUS SERVE the logical top pick. She has shown steady progress across her three outings to date, culminating in a good 2nd place at 1200M on April 24th when she settled handy, dropped back and then ran on. The slight step up in trip can suit and she won’t need to improve much to be winning this. Of those who have tackled the 1300M before, (7) MIR BEST has the fastest time among them, record when 4th at his latest appearance on April 16th. He also has a runner-up finish at this distance to his name and looks the most credible threat to the favourite here. (4) DIVINE FUTURES ran on pleasingly enough for 4th over this trip on his most recent outing on April 24th and a similar run can put him in the placing frame here. (1) NEVER NEVER STOP and (2) ROSE GOLD others who perhaps could improve.
Selections
(6) Gorgeous Serve (7) Mir Best (4) Divine Futures (1) Never Never Stop
Next Best
2, 8
Fast Start
1, 2, 6, 8
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Competitive maiden. (9) ACE PLAN has been knocking on the door for a while now and comes in off a 4th place at this distance last time out. It wasn’t a fast time, but he has hinted at having a bit of speed at shorter and he could be ready to win here. (7) MYEONGJIN CANDY is yet to finish in the top-two but has the fastest time among these at the distance and ran on pleasingly for 3rd last time out at 1200M. An increasingly accomplished looking apprentice jockey brings her weight down a full 4kg from that run and that may be enough to see her home on top. (10) LOST WAR needs to go in the numbers based on his two latest showings, which ended in 2nd and 4th at this distance. He may need a touch of luck at the start from the widest gate but has a chance. (8) SMART BYEOL and (1) GEUMSEONG HWANHUI among others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(9) Ace Plan (7) Myeongjin Candy (10) Lost War (8) Smart Byeol
Next Best
1, 2
Fast Start
5, 7, 8, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
A competitive race for the level. (1) BURUI KKOT may be one of only two in the field without a win to her name, but she has four top three finishes from six starts including a 3rd place at tis class. We’ll draw a line through her latest effort when she drew gate eleven and never really found a run and today, she draws a good gate for only the second time – on the other occasion she ran 2nd. She carries a light weight, and it is possible she could lead here. If she does, she can go all the way (8) GEOLJAK WOMAN was one of many who beat Burui Kkot last time out on April 3rd. She was 2nd that day (and is the only other one in the field not to have a win) and also looks ready to win. Both the draw and the weights slightly swing in Burui Kkot’s favour this time, but Geoljak Woman can sit handy and has a strong finish on her. (5) P N S AI comes up in class after a maiden win at this distance at start number three on March 12th. He can measure up in this company. (7) SAMJEONG TAPAS was a class and distance winner on April 24th in a fair time and while carrying an additional 3.5kg here, can be a danger again. (6) WILD SOCKS another in the frame.
it’s 2022 Korean Derby Day. Click here for a full preview of the big race which is race 8 on an 11-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There is also a 6-race card at Busan from 12:00 to 16:45. As is customary on Derby weekend, general admission to the racecourses and to OCBs across the country, is free of charge. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(9) TOUCH NINE is the one to beat here. The Fed Biz colt is yet to finish in the top two, but he has four finished between 3rd and 5th including back-to-back 4th places from his latest two, both of them at this distance. He has post fair times and has proven able to run on pace or to close. From the widest gate he will probably look to drop in and use his late speed to be too good. (2) TIZ FIGHTING was 5th behind Touch Nine at was both their latest starts on April 9th. He draws well again and can be competitive. So can (5) BIG ENERGY. Yet to win in twelve, he does have six top-four finishes to his name and was 3rd at his latest outing three weeks ago when going right back and running on. He can run into some money again. (3) KKANGDORI has shown signs recently of figuring things out with a 2nd and a 3rd among her latest four appearances. And under another light weight can run well here too. (6) CHADOL RUN another minor money contender.
Selections
(9) Touch Nine (2) Tiz Fighting (5) Big Energy (3) Kkangdori
Next Best
6, 8
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 6
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(2) TOP CLASS will be hot favourite here. He raced twice quite ordinarily last summer and then didn’t reappear until this spring when following a positive March trial, he returned to action on April 17th, running a very good 2nd at this distance when overcoming gate eleven to lead for most of the race. He should have come on for that run, he draws a much better gate, and he is very much the one to beat. (6) M J TIME was significantly improved at start number four when leading almost the entire wat around at this distance on April 23rd, only to get passed late on by a good winner. He will be on or close to the pace again and can maintain that momentum here. (9) WONDERFUL MUSIC didn’t do too much wrong on debut at this distance on April 16th, running around in midfield and improving to 4th. That followed a good trial and he she can put in another bold showing today. There are two first-time starters and both (4) GANA FASHION and (8) WHITE CAT trialed up pleadingly, with the former quicker and more preferred first-up.
Selections
(2) Top Class (6) M J Time (9) Wonderful Music (4) Gana Fashion
Next Best
8, 3
Fast Start
2, 5, 6, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Since getting her maiden win last September, (2) SOBERANIA has been sent off as favourite all three times she has appeared in the gates. At the first of those, she ran a slightly disappointing 2nd. At the second she deposited her jockey on to the sand coming out of the barrier and proceeded without him. Most recently, she led but just got pipped into 2nd place at class and distance on April 10th. From a good draw, she goes on top again and surely it will be fourth time lucky. Should something go wrong again – and let’s face it, it might – (6) CUPID VOW could take advantage. He ran 4th behind Soberania on April 10th, running on, and he can be considered to go closer today. So too (8) K N OLD QUEEN. She was disappointing in that same race which was her first at class 5 following a maiden win over this distance in January. She is worth another chance here. (5) DIECO and (12) RAON THE WILD others in the frame.
Selections
(2) Soberania (6) Cupid Vow (8) K N Old Queen (5) Dieco
Next Best
12, 11
Fast Start
2, 6, 8, 11
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Small field in the opener on the south-coast but three of the seven look ready to win. We’ll take a chance on (4) ADELE ALLIE’S who has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place at this distance on April 10th when settling midfield and running on. In this field, she should be on pace and has every chance of winning. So too does (6) LINE BREAKER. He comes back in trip following some good performances at 1400M including last time when he was an on-pace 3rd. He is yet to finish any worse than 5th in five starts and will probably be the favourite here. (5) SPECIAL FACT came from off the pace to run a good 3rd in a slowly run race at this distance on April 15th. (1) STAR CATCH and (3) FANTASTIC YEOGEOL could potentially sneak some minor money.
Selections
(4) Adele Allie’s (6) Line Breaker (5) Special Fact (1) Star Catch
Next Best
3, 7
Fast Start
1, 2, 4, 6
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only here. (9) BOOSTER ROCKET warrants favourite status on the back of her runner-up finish in a similar class and distance event on April 23rd, when she came from off the pace to work home well. She has eight top-five finishes from ten attempts and will be finishing off strongly again. (8) ADAMS APPLE might be worth a speculative additional chance here at probable good odds. She had shown plenty of ability in four starts prior to a lengthy layoff and hinted at it still being there when trialing. She has been ordinary in two starts back but following another six weeks out, she may be fitter this time. (2) BIG BIT is one who returned to form after some lacklustre performances. She comes in following a good 2nd place at this class over 1200M on April 17th and from a good gate and under a light weight, should be in the mix here. (3) SONGAM BEST comes up in class following a good win over 1200M when handy throughout and she can measure up in this company. (1) NANA LAND also comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes and she too can compete.
Selections
(9) Booster Rocket (8) Adams Apple (2) Big Bit (3) Songam Best
Next Best
1, 11
Fast Start
3, 6, 7, 8
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
He’s been out for almost a year but (6) POKPUNG JILJU still shapes as the one to beat here. He registered two smart 3rd places over 1400M before his layoff and looked very well when trialing up at the end of April. This is a small field with little to fear, and he couldn’t have asked for a better race to return in. (3) PURPLE MANGO has also had an interrupted career so far. She made one appearance in August of last year and then didn’t race again until April 22nd when she was handy for much of the 1200M before ultimately ending in 7th. She should have benefited from that run and can go closer today. (2) YEONGCHEON POWER has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and can go close today. (7) WONDERFUL REALTY and (8) FANTASTIC MAGIC are others in the hunt.
It’s Korean Derby Eve and Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. General admission to both the racecourses and off-track centers is free across this weekend to mark the occasion of the Derby. Here are Saturday’s previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open proceedings. It’s hard to go far past (3) SUNGAN TOUCH. After a lackluster debut last Christmas Day, he ran a well beaten 2nd to Daemul, who runs in Sunday’s Korean Derby, before finishing 3rd on his latest outing on March 26th. Both were at 1300M and both times he led. He draws well here to lead again and should win. (10) NAMSAN MUJEOK hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but probably won’t need to find much more in order to get on the board here. He comes in off an improved 3rd place at start number four on April 10th when he sat midfield and ran on, and he should go close here. (1) DAECHEON BEAUTY wasn’t ready when debuting last October but looked much better when returning for another go on April 9th when 4th at this distance. He should have come on for the run and can continue to make progress today. (5) MIGHTY ANN and debut-maker (2) GEUMA POSH are others who could make an impact.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
More three-year-old maidens and a few of them look ready to win. (2) LAROMANEE just about gets the nod having shown steady improvement across her five starts to date, culminating in a 3rd place finish in her latest start when she was prominent throughout in an all-filly race over 1200M on April 3rd. She steps up to this trip for the first time, draws well, gets Moon Se-young aboard, and has every chance. (1) GEONGONILCHEOK is the main danger. He too has shown progress over five outings and enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, the latter of which was at this distance on April 16th. He will be on pace here and won’t be far away. (6) GUKDAE CLASS debuted in that April 16th race and ran a decent 5th. With some natural improvement out of that, he can go close here. (5) FLASH THUNDER and (4) SINHAN TEUKSONG are others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(2) Laromanee (1) Geongonilcheok (6) Gukdae Class (5) Flash Thunder
Next Best
4, 8
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Small field of filly maidens and while it is not a strong field, it is competitive. (5) EOMCHEONGNAN GIRL will probably be the favourite. She is the only runner in the field to have a 2nd place to her name and enters off a fair 4th place at this distance on April 17th when she settled in midfield and ran on. Those two factors are enough to put her on top here. (4) BARAMSAL also comes in off a last start 4th, her best finish to date, over 1200M on April 10th. She steps up in trip here but has been finishing off her races pleasingly enough so it may suit. (1) LONDON POWER has two 3rd places in her record. She went back to trial after her latest start in early April and looked extremely well in it. She looks to be the natural leader here and should be in this a long way. (3) BLUE KAISER and (6) STAR PRINCESS others who may hit the minors.
Selections
(5) Eomcheongnan Girl (4) Baramsal (1) London Power (3) Blue Kaiser
Next Best
6, 2
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 7
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
We’ll take a chance on (8) P N S GAMBOL stepping up again. He did absolutely nothing for five starts but with a 3rd and a then a win from his latest two, he appears to have figured things out. His win came when making all over 1200M on April 30th and they turn around quickly here. He is up in class and in distance but should be on pace and can measure up. The favourite will be (9) BLUE HAMMER. He is yet to win in nine attempts but has four top-three finishes to his name, including at his latest start on April 17th at this distance when he settled midfield and ran on well. He has had a tendency to leave himself a little bit too much today but this looks like his best chance of picking up a win. (10) OLD START comes up in trip after a good 3rd place at this class over 1200M on April 10th. He finished off well that day and the additional trip may suit. (5) STAR RUSH and (6) SANGSEUNG HAENGJIN are others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(8) P N S Gambol (9) Blue Hammer (10) Old Start (5) Star Rush
Sunday’s feature race is the Korean Oaks at Busan – See here for full preview – part of a 6-race card on the south-coast from 12:00 to 16:45. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Golden Power beat Chamjoeun Chingu is a tight finish to the Luna Stakes. They face off again in the Korean Oaks (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (2) JAY PHOENIX has raced only once and it was back in December, but he ran well, being on pace before ultimately finishing 3rd behind a couple of useful ones over 1000M. He won a trial in early April and from a great draw, will be expected to win first-up here. (4) GRAY THOR has also raced just the once, in his case over 1200M on April 3rd when he settled handy to the lead and ran on for 6th, beating a couple of today’s rivals. That followed a promising trial and with some natural improvement, he can go close today. (10) CUPID SAFE comes in with an improved 3rd and 2nd from her latest two, both at 1300M. In the first of those she settled back in the field and at the most recent she was handy so she is versatile enough to overcome the wide gate here and can be dangerous. (6) ECHO ZONE and (8) NONSTOP ALI the best of the rest.
Selections
(2) Jay Phoenix (4) Gray Thor (10) Cupid Safe (6) Echo Zone
Next Best
8, 11
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Maiden fillies and mares only here. (5) P N S CHANCE enters with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at this distance and both times running on strongly. The engagement of an apprentice jockey brings her significantly down in the weights and she can run on strongly and go close here. The main danger is (3) GALSAEK HYANGGI. She comes in following a good 2nd place over 1400M on March 19th when handy throughout. That was her best finish in six starts to date and with similar tactics today, she looks sure to be in the finish again. It’s hard to go past those two for the quinella. (10) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER was well back behind P N S Chance at her latest outing but has hinted at ability. (8) SHINE MUSIC and (12) BARO QUEEN are among others that can be considered for the places.
Selections
(5) P N S Chance (3) Galsaek Hyanggi (10) Hampyeong Fighter (8) Shine Music
Next Best
12, 6
Fast Start
1, 10, 11, 12
Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(3) BRAVO MAY will be the favourite here. He looks to be working back up to another win with a good 4th and 3rd from his latest two, both at this class and distance and last time out beating a couple of today’s rivals when settling midfield and running on well. He has posted decent times and from a great draw, has every chance here. (7) FIRST DREAM is yet to win in twenty-one attempts but came back to this trip last start after several goes around two turns and registered a career-best 2nd place on April 3rd when he got to the lead from gate nine and was only beaten by a very good winner. If he can be ridden forward again, he can be in this a long way. (5) PIEONADA ran adequately enough for 5th on her latest appearance on April 10th and may appreciate the step back up in trip here. (8) JISANGUN mixes his form but has placed at class and distance and along with (2) KAILLUM JEWANG, should be in the minor money hunt.
Selections
(3) Bravo May (7) First Dream (5) Pieonada (8) Jisangun
Next Best
2, 4
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 7
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
There are a couple of tempting debut-makers here, but we shall side with experience and put (5) GREAT CAPTAIN on top. He has steadily improved across his four appearances to date, culminating with a strong 2nd at this distance on March 27th, when as has been his style after his debut, he settled just behind the early speed and then ran on well. An apprentice brings his weight down here and today can be his day. (4) STAR MATTA looked very well when winning a trial by as many as he pleased in a fast time on a dry track on April 23rd. His half-brother Lucas Sun has won a couple of races here and a bold showing first-up seems likely. The other first-timer is (1) GEUMA INFINITE. He trialed up in a different heat on the same morning and while he didn’t win the heat, he stopped the clock in exactly the same time as Smart Matta. All three half-siblings to make the track won. Returning to the experienced ones, (8) TRIPLE THUNDER and (7) MEOTJIN HARU look the best.
Selections
(5) Great Captain (4) Star Matta (1) Geuma Infinite (8) Triple Thunder
Next Best
7, 2
Fast Start
4, 5, 6, 8
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(1) HANGANG BOSS will be hot favourite to win here. He got his maiden victory two starts back over 1300M before running a strong 4th from the widest gate on his first try at this class over 1200M on March 19th when he simply couldn’t find a decent position early and had to run on from a long way back. He gets a much better gate today and the additional furlong should favour him. The logical danger is (5) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN. Despite remaining a maiden, she comes up in class here following a few too many near-misses at class 6 level and has recently been running well over 1300M. She is another for who the slight step up in trip can suit and she should be in the mix here. The form really drops off after those two, though. (4) HAPPY SOCKS has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and that’s enough to put him into the placing frame here. (3) YEONGUNG DAEMA and (2) WHITE WING others to consider for minor money.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(5) KING BOSS has only raced twice and has been a beaten favourite twice, finishing 4th and 3rd, both times at 1200M. He has raced prominently both times and draws nicely again to do the same here. His time at the distance is quicker than all but one has recorded, and it can be third-time lucky as market leader today. (2) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE took a few goes to figure things out but has a 2nd and a 3rd to his name now at this level. He draws nicely here and under a light weight, can be in the mix. (4) WORLD FLOWER remains a maiden but comes in off a career-best 2nd place scored at this distance on April 10th when she went right back and ran on. If she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, she can be considered here. (3) CHONGAL CHARM and (1) WONDERFUL DIGGER are others who can have minor money claims.
Selections
(5) King Boss (2) Choegang Mujigae (4) World Flower (3) Chongal Charm
Horse Racing in Korea 