Seoul

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are nine races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies open proceedings with two standouts. We’ll take a chance on (4) COSMO, who raced twice at the tail-end of last year, both at 1000M and finishing a good 5th and 2nd in good times. The step up in trip shouldn’t be an issue and while this is her first start in more than three months, if she can carry over that form, she can win. (3) ANOTHER LEVEL wasn’t especially well fancied on debut on March 5th after an indifferent trial, but took to racing well, running 3rd at this trip having settled in midfield. She wasn’t far away from the winner and from a good gate and with some natural improvement for the run, she has a big chance here and may start as favourite. (1) MIRACLE DAUGHTER ran well for 4th on debut before unseating her jockey when leading at her second start in January. She trialed up well two weeks ago and looks worth another chance here. Of the four first-time starters, (10) ARCH SIN looks most likely to make an impact first-up. (8) MUSTANG CHARM has put in two fair performances and can be considered for improvement.

Selections(4) Cosmo (3) Another Level (1) Miracle Daughter (10) Arch Sin
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

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

Three-year-old maidens here and in a field where the exposed form is very thin, a big chance must be given to the debut-makers. More specifically, (10) DAESARI, who led from start to finish in his trial earlier this month. The time was only fair, but it was a slow running track, and he won’t need to improve much on that to win here. Logical second pick is (2) AL SIMON. She has got way too far back in her races so far but has shown the ability to run on and has posted the fastest time for this distance among those here who have attempted it, by some margin. If she can be put in a position where she has a chance, then she can go very close. (3) NEW CHEONGPA did at least beat a couple of these at his latest start and in weaker company today can improve. One of those was (5) CHANGER, who started poorly and didn’t improve. At his previous outing, he was on pace though and from a better gate, can be so again and be in this for a long way. (4) CUPID BELLE another in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Daesari (2) Al Simon (3) New Cheongpa (5) Changer
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens and a tricky affair. Again, there are two standouts. We’ll go with (11) SUNGAN TOUCH. He was much improved at start number two on February 19th when he led for much of the way around at this distance, ultimately finishing 2nd. The draw isn’t so favourable today, but he can overcome that and has every chance here. So too (1) HATMURI. He too comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd at 1200M on February 26th, sitting handy throughout and beating plenty of today’s rivals in the process. He gets a great draw on the inside so Park Tae-jong will have plenty of options and another bold showing can be expected. (3) BEST JEONSA ran 3rd in that February 26th race having led until the middle of the home straight. That was his first time ridden on the speed and also his best result, so we can expect similar tactics today. (12) MORNING FIVE and (2) K N SKETCH are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(11) Sungan Touch (1) Hatmuri (3) Best Jeonsa (12) Morning Five
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start3, 8, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (4) HWASUBOON is yet to finish any worse than 5th and got her maiden win at her latest start in a similar all-filly race over 1200M on February 13th when she led for most of the way around. She does come up a couple of kilograms in the weights as a result but draws nicely and could well have too much again. (5) SMART HIGH has been a model of consistency and comes back slightly in trip after two good runs over 1400M which ended in 2nd and 4th, both times having to contend with wide draws. She gets a good gate this time, comes down very slightly in the weights and has a chance. That would mean overturning the form from February 26th on (9) JUNGCHUBUSA. She started her career in a hurry and while she had seemingly lost her way a bit, she ran strongly for 2nd in that race ahead of Smart High. She can be in this too. (2) COMPLETE STAR and the up in class (10) HAPPY MIX are others who can be competitive.

Selections(4) Hwasuboon (5) Smart High (9) Jungchubusa (2) Complete Star
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(8) TAEYANGTAGO was a class and distance winner on February 26th when he settled back in the field and ran on strongly. He only comes up 1kg in the weights and so long as he doesn’t leave himself too much to do here, can win again. (4) NAUI NARA comes up in class having registered his maiden win at start number five at this distance on February 27th when he sat handy to the lead before running on well for a comfortable score. He comes down slightly in the weights, draws nicely again, and surely measures up at this level. (10) GEUMSEONG MAN finished well back behind Taeyangtago last time out. The before though he was a winner at this distance at class 6 level, when coming from well off the pace, and Moon Se-young climbing aboard will alert plenty. (3) RUN RUN RUN and (2) SMART JEONSA are among others with at least placing chances.

Selections(8) Taeyangtago (4) Naui Nara (10) Geumseong Man (3) Run Run Run
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 11

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(6) JOY BROTHER ran a fair 5th at this class over 1700M at his latest start on February 27th. The 1400M is more his go though and he was a class and distance winner two starts and has run consistently good times. He is carrying 3kh more than he did at that win, but he can be expected to be on pace here and to be in this a long way. (4) SINUI ADEUL has also run good times at this distance. He comes back up in trip following a solid 2nd place at this class over 1200M on February 26th when he settled right back and ran on, and he will be finishing strongly again here. (1) DOLGYEOK APEURO comes in having somewhat surprisingly beaten three of these on her way to a class and distance win on February 19th. She went right back that day but ran on very strongly and will warrant more respect here. (2) DUSON MEONGGEUN was 3rd in that same race. He then unseated his jockey coming out of the gates at a planned start two weeks ago and if he and Park Tae-jong can remain united here, can be given another chance. (10) DAEWANGU among others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Joy Brother (4) Sinui Adeul (1) Dolgyeok Apeuro (2) Duson Meonggeun
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 12
(more…)

Seoul & Busan Sunday – Sports Chosun Trophy: Race-by-Race Preview (March 20)

The Listed Sports Chosun Trophy at Seoul is the feature race of the day but there is plenty going on across the cards, including appearances by the likes of Eoma Eoma, Morfhis and East Jet in a big handicap. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 plus 6 at Busan from 12:00 to 16:40. All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Eoma Eoma runs in Seoul’s feature Sunday handicap

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies kick things off and we’ll be happy to side with the solitary first-time starter. That’s (7) DREAM ROSE who comes in having performed well in a trial two weeks ago when she led for much of the way around, ultimately crossing the line just half a length behind last year’s Oaks winner Choegang Black in a decent time. If se brings that kind of form to the races, she can produce a bold showing first-up here. (6) CONCORD QUEEN will dispute favourite status. After an indifferent debut, she has done well in her latest two, racing prominently throughout. She’ll be on the speed here and has every chance. So too (4) SONGAM BEST, who has run 3rd in both starts so far at 1000M and 1200M. She too is likely to be up on the early speed and can go close. (1 ) ARCH RIVER ran through the line well enough on debut and may appreciate the additional trip today. (8) TOP POSITION another one in the frame for improvement.

Selections(7) Dream Rose (6) Concord Queen (4) Songam Best (1) Arch River
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

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

More maidens here, this time with three of the twelve racing for the first time. (3) CONCORDE SPURT is the one to beat having finished no worse than 4th in three starts so far including his latest when coming from midfield to run on well for 2nd place. He draws a better gate today and should have too much. (2) EUREKA has run well for 4th in both his latest two aces, the most recent of which was over today’s distance. He ran the same time for the 1200M as Concorde Spurt and looks one of the more credible dangers in this field. (8) PURPLE WORLD ran a good 2nd on debut over 1000M on January 29th. He should have come on for the experience and there is no reason the additional furlong can’t suit. Of the first timers, (9) CHAPEL PRINCESS looks the best placed to make an immediate impact having won a trial at the end of January. (1) RAON THE CHUKJE can potentially improve having received a good draw for the first time.

Selections(3) Concorde Spurt (2) Eureka (8) Purple World (9) Chapel Princess
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

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

It’s hard to go past (2) KING CRUSH here. He has been consistent across his seven starts so far with his best being 3rd place two starts back over 1300M. He has run fair times and from a nice draw should be hard to beat. (4) DONGSEO YEOGEOL is the only runner in the race with a 2nd place to her name, which she achieved four starts ago in early December. She can be on pace here and should be in this a long way. (5) P N S HER has three 4th place finishes from six starts so far, including her latest two. She has also recorded the fastest time among these for the distance and should be aiming for a career-best finish in this company. (10) SINJURYU has a best finish of 3rd. He tends to settle back and tries to run on so the wide draw may not be a concern. (8) MYEONGJIN CANDY the only other one in the race to have hinted at much ability so far.

Selections(2) King Crush (4) Dongseo Yeogeol (5) P N S Her (10) Sinjuryu
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

One of two first-time starters, (1) HAMYANGEUN SANSAM looks the one to beat here. He wasn’t ready when trialed for the first-time last September but looked a totally different prospect when on pace throughout and crossing the line first in another heat in February. Drawn nicely on the inside, he won’t need to improve much on that to win. (2) SEOGWI CHUKJE ran fairly for 5th at start number two on February 11th, going right back and then running on over 1200M. The slight step up in trip can be a bonus here. (7) SPECIAL WIND was 6th in that same race on what was his debut. He should have come for that and with natural improvement can be aiming for the places here. (4) ALL CROWN and (8) UNJU STAR look the best of a limited rest.

Selections(1) Hamyangeun Sansam (2) Seogwi Chukje (7) Special Wind (4) All Crown
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

Fillies and mares only here. (4) MAGIC TIDE was a winner at this class over 1200M two starts back before finishing 4th on her latest outing, again at 1200M, on February 19th in what was arguably tougher company than this. She has run a fair time at this distance and while she comes up in the weights, she gets a better draw than last time and will be favourite to strike here. (7) COOL PRINCESS has also run a good time for the distance and comes in looking as though she is working towards another victory with a 4th and a 3rd from her latest two outings at 1200M and 1300M. She has settled back in midfield in those but may be ridden bit further forward today and can be a danger. (3) HAPPY SOCKS will need a line drawn through her latest when she struggled from a wide gate. Much better drawn and slightly down in weight she can be given another chance here. (10) CHEONEUNCHONG comes up in class having got her maiden win at start three on February 13th. She is up in trip too but in this company should measure up. Also up in class, (11) LAGERTHA is another to consider.

Selections(4) Magic Tide (7) Cool Princess (3) Happy Socks (10) Cheoneunchong
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

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

A very tricky race. (9) BLUE CARSON has been as consistent as any across her eight starts so far – i.e., she has mixed her form but has a 3rd and a 2nd to her name at this distance as well as fair times. The draw won’t matter so much, and she can make the breakthrough here. (4) WIND CROSS comes in following a good 3rd place over 1400M during which he led at times. He should be on pace again today and can be in this long way again. (11) INDIE MAGIC was a good 2nd on debut and while he had a hard time on his second appearance on February 25th, that was his first try at 1200M and he can have come on for that run and be in the mix here. (10) B.K. HANA and (2) ARTIE’S GAL are others who should be in at least the placing frame.

Selections(9) Blue Carson (4) Wind Cross (11) Indie Magic (10) B.K. Hana
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

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

Good race. (6) TITAN SOCKS is the top pick and probable favourite. He is yet to finish outside the top-five in four starts which includes a win over 1200M at class 6 level back in January. At his latest start on February 26th, he stepped up to this class and distance and sat midfield before running on for 3rd. He carries the same weight today, draws better, and may take some beating. (3) DAEMUL comes up in class and distance having got his maiden win at start number two on February 19th when handy throughout and running on to win very well. He comes down a couple of kilos in weight and there is not reason why he can’t measure up in this company. (5) RUNNING NUMBER ONE was a winner at this distance at class 6 level two starts back and while he could only manage 6th on his first try at this class on February 19th, he can be given another chance today. It’s been a while since (4) AMAZING WHIZ was in the winner’s circle, but she is a model of consistency and this is the kind of race she knows how to find the minor money in. (10) BRAVO SOCKS and (1) THAT’S MY BOY, the latter along with Running Number One the only previous winner at this distance, are others to consider.

Selections(6) Titan Socks (3) Daemul (5) Running Number One (4) Amazing Whiz
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8
(more…)

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

Saturday’s racing is from Seoul where there are 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Seoul Saturday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open the program. (3) DAEBAK STAR overcame a wide draw to run 2nd on his latest start back in January. He has had a couple of months off since and from a much better gate will be the one to beat here. It’s the draw that puts him clear favourite over (10) RIVER TAEYANG. The latter has finished 4th in both starts so far, most recently at this distance on February 20th when he ran on well. Plenty will take note of the jockey booking and he is sure to be well backed. There are four debut-makers and among them (11) TRIPLE JOY and (8) PERMISSION TO WIN trialed up together on February 18th coming home 2nd and 3rd in the heat with fair times. In this company, both should be competitive first-up. Retuning to those with prior experience, (2) WIDAEHAN HANMA is perhaps the most likely to improve.

Selections(3) Daebak Star (10) River Taeyang (11) Triple Joy (8) Permission To Win
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies (and one mare) here. (8) FIRST ROAD will be the hot favourite. She’s raced six times so far with a best finish of 2nd place coming over 1200M last November. At her latest two outings, she has overcome wide draws to run close and stepping up to 1400M for the first time, should have too much for this field. (6) ONE MORE RUSH comes in off a good 4th place at 1300M on February 19th when handy and running on. She has the best start among these and should be on pace here and in this a long way. (5) GALSAEK HYANGGI, by contrast, runs best when coming from off the pace. She can drop in here from a good gate and run on strong at the business end. (10) ZEROBAEK FIVE and (1) HAPPY DREAM are others who should be competitive.

Selections(8) First Road (6) One More Rush (5) Galsaek Hyanggi (10) Zerobaek Five
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) BLACK KING was a much-improved 2nd when stepped up to this distance on February 27th when he sat midfield and ran on, beating plenty of today’s rivals in the process. He carries the same weight today, draws well and could go one better. The step up in trip seems likely to suit (3) MUSTANG POWER. He has run on well in each of his three starts to date at shorter trips but has left himself too much to do each time. The two-turns should be what he needs, and he has solid claims here. (1) CLOUTER came home in 3rd place behind Black King in that February 27th race. That was his best finish in fifteen starts but in this company a repeat or better shouldn’t be ruled out. (11) HANI too comes in off a best finish of 3rd place. The draw does her no favours but she can be competitive again here. (2) EPIPHANY another in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Black King (3) Mustang Power (1) Clouter (11) Hani
Next Best2, 12
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 12

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

Competitive race but it’s hard to go too far past (12) GOOD NISEN. An all the way winner over 1200M at class 6 level two starts back, he was sent off as favourite for his first try at this class and distance on February 13th but having settled back in the field, could only run into 3rd. Despite the wide draw, he is worth another chance today. (9) CHEONGDAM WICKED returned from eight months out to run 6th of fourteen over this distance on February 27th. She has shown plenty of ability before the layoff and should have come on for that run so improvement can be expected. (2) POWER K won well on debut over 1000M, before putting in a fair run when 3rd at this class over 1200M at the end of January. From a great draw, he can get an easy run to the lead and will be in this a long way. (8) LONDON QUEEN has the fastest time among those who have raced at the distance before and along with the up in class (6) SAINT LUCCA is another who can go close.

Selections(12) Good Nisen (9) Cheongdam Wicked (2) Power K (8) London Queen
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 6, 9, 12

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

(4) EUNHYE got his maiden win at start number four on February 20th, making all over 1200M. He comes up in class here but that’s tempered by a better draw and a slightly lower weight and though he will need to find improvement, he can win again. (3) JILJU BORN is the main danger and could stat favourite. He has run consistently good times at this distance, including his own win two starts back, and at his latest on February 19th when he overcame a wide draw to run 3rd, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. (7) SKY MANGCHI reutrns to action after six months off, He has shown plenty of promise before his setback and looked very well when winning a trial two weeks ago, leading every step of the way. He’ll obviously need this but can be competitive. (12) HANGANG BOSS, up in class after a maiden win a month ago, and (8) JEONGSANG FIGHTING are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(4) Eunhye (3) Jilju Born (7) Sky Mangchi (12) Hangang Boss
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7
(more…)

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

There is racing at both Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:00 to 16:50) on Sunday. All betting locations are open (except the Daegu branch), however, attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Tiz Plan is among those in action on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open the program. (3) GOLDEN THUNDER looks the one to beat, having improved to 2nd place at start number two on February 13th when beating three of today’s rivals with an on-pace showing at this distance. He draws better today, should be on the speed again, and can win. (6) THE FAVORITE didn’t run on at her latest start in January. She had hinted at some ability in her three prior starts though, showing a bit of speed and is worth another chance here. There are two debut-makers and of the pair, (8) STAR RACER caught the eye in his trial, crossing the line well ahead of the rest. The time wasn’t fast but in generally, trials have been slowly run of late and he can make an immediate impact first-up. (12) PURPLE STORM and (11) SIRIUS ALPHA others who can find the minor money.

Selections(3) Golden Thunder (6) The Favorite (8) Star Racer (12) Purple Storm
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies here. We’ll take a chance on one of the two first-timer starters, (4) TIZ SUCCESS. She went through two trials, significantly improving in the second of them, running through the line very well in a good time. She draws well here and looks right in this. (6) MENI SPEAR will probably start as favourite. She ran 4th on debut and then improved to 2nd at start number two, both over 1000M. Her style so far has been to be on pace, something she is well drawn to do again, and she will be in this a long way. (2) BE FLOWER also comes up in trip having run 3rd in both starts so far. The extra furlong can suit today. (11) GORGEOUS SERVE took an age to get into stride on debut but should have come on for that and be given another chance here. Similarly (3) BLOOD MOON beat a couple of today’s rivals when running on for 6th place. She has a better draw today and can be competitive.

Selections(4) Tiz Success (6) Meni Spear (2) Be Flower (11) Gorgeous Serve
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

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

It’s hard to go too far past (10) BE CRAZY here. He comes back to this distance following two good spins over 1300M which yielded a 3rd and a 4th. He doesn’t draw ideally but should have enough early speed to navigate his way to the front and from then on will be very much the one to beat. (9) SOARA DAERO has a 2nd and two 5ths in three prior outings and has registered the fastest time of any of these at the distance along the way. He too has good early speed and can sit on pace or handy here and can be a danger. (6) EUNHYE DREAM has made progress in her latest two with a 3rd and a 4th, both times coming from off the pace and making up good ground late. Expect similar here. (12) RAON THE WILD and (8) BADAUI KKUM have mixed their form, but both have hinted at ability and could make the minor money in this company.

Selections(10) Be Crazy (9) Soara Daero (6) Eunhye Dream (12) Raon The Wild
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Small but competitive field here.  (7) EUNSEONG WINNER could be ready to win. She has two 3rd place finishes from her three starts to date, including her latest on February 20th when she came from well back to run on well over 1200M. The slight step up in trip can suit and Franco Da Silva remains aboard. (3) B.K. NEW MOON was an improved 2nd at her second outing on February 13th over 1200M. She recorded a fair time and is another who may suit the slightly extended trip today. (1) WONDERFUL CUTIE came home in 6th place behind Eunseong Winner on her most recent appearance but two starts back was runner-up over 1000M. She is nicely drawn on the inside here and looks to have at least placing claims. (6) HONOR’S MARGAUX and (5) HAPPY SONG SONG have the potential to improve.

Selections(7) Eunseong Winner (3) B.K. New Moon (1) Wonderful Cutie (6) Honor’ s Margaux
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(8) SONGAM RACER enters off his best finish to date when 3rd over 1300M, running on well. Like five others, he tackles this trip for the first time and his running style suggests that it can suit with him expected to sit off the pace here and then finish strongly. He could be too good. (7) BLACK INDY looked very much as though he needed the run when well back over 1400M on January 29th, on what was his first start since last June. He drew very wide that day so had plenty of excuses and with a bit of natural improvement from that run, can be much more competitive today. (4) POSA POSA comes back in trip following a couple of tries around two turns. This should suit a little more and he can aim to at least repeat the 3rd place he scored at 1300M last December. (9) APPLE MINT and (1) M J STORM are others who can enter the equation.

Selections(8) Songam Racer (7) Black Indy (4) Posa Posa (9) Apple Mint
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

(8) SAEROUN HAMAN has impressed in two starts so far, running 5th and 3rd over 1000M and 1200M and at his latest came from off the pace to run on very pleasingly. He comes up slightly in trip today and it could be what he needs to come out on top. (3) GREAT ONE comes back in trip after strong of runs at a mile, including his best finish to date of 2nd two starts back and has run fairly at this distance so in this company, can be considered. (6) DAEHO NURI comes up in trip after some adequate showings over 1200M including a 3rd place two starts back in a decent time. His running style has generally been to go back and run on so it may well suit here. (1) AGAIN HELEN and (7) SOUTHERN KING are others who may be considered for the minor money.

Selections(8) Saeroun Haman (3) Great One (6) Daeho Nuri (1) Again Helen
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 8

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

A big field and a competitive race here. (4) SHOWMAKER could be working her way towards a second victory. She enters off the back of two consecutive 3rd place finishes, both at this class, over 1400M and 1300M. She has good early speed compared with most oof her rivals here so can use a good draw to get a little further forward today and may go all the way. (6) HYPER CAR is potentially the betting favourite. He did well at this attest start to overcome gate fourteen to run 5th at class and distance and the time before ran a good 2nd. His times at the distance are consistent and while he remains a maiden after fourteen attempts, that could change here. (12) WANGINGHAENGCHA beat Hyper Car on his way to 3rd place last time out at class and distance. He has trialed up adequately since then and could be in line for another place here. (2) EUNHYE CHUNGMAN and (7) CURRERECUS are others who enter the calculations.

(more…)

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul where there are nine races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations (except Daegu) are open although attendance must be pre-booked with the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open the capital’s Saturday program. (9) MORNING PEARL is the one to beat, having raced consistently across five starts to date, including a 2nd place over 1200M and a last start 4th at this trip in a time faster than any of today’s rivals have achieved. She tends to go back and run-on but in the absence of much speed here, may be ridden further forward than before and be hard to beat. (10) NAMSAN MUJEOK improved at start number two when 5th over 1200M. His times have been underwhelming but the further slight step up in trip may suit and he won’t need to have progressed much to be in the finish here. (3) RESERVED JOHN finished off nicely for 3rd place on debut and with some natural progression can put be in the frame for at least another place. (5) THUNDER FLASH and (6) G STAR others to consider.

Selections(9) Morning Pearl (10) Namsan Mujeok (3) Reserved John (5) Thunder Flash
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (12) EUNHYE SERVE was sent off an odds-on favourite on February 13th but got too far back and while she finished off well, could only manage 5th, her worst finish to date. She’s not exactly got the best of the draw here but on her form prior to last time is probably worth another chance today. (4) KKANGDORI significantly improved at her latest start on February 13th when 2nd over 1300M having been handy throughout. The same apprentice keeps the weight light, and she can repeat from another good draw. (5) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE was 8th in that February 13th race, weakening in the closing stages. She has shown bits and pieces of ability prior to that though and the slight drop in trip brings her back into contention today. (1) GUK HYANG and (9) ELITE RULES are others with at least placing claims.

Selections(12) Eunhye Serve (4) Kkangdori (5) Neoreul Eungwonhae (1) Guk Hyang
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 7 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Small field but plenty enter with recent form reading well and among them (2) GRAND STAR appears to be the one closest to a win. He comes in off a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, both at this distance and has also recorded the fastest time of any of these at the distance. He can lead or sit handy here and may take some beating. (4) THUNDER HORSE was scarcely involved from a wide draw over 1300M last time out but instead we can go on his 4th place at this distance two starts back in January. He settled in midfield and ran on that day and can go close again today. (7) BLOW MIND comes up in trip following a good 3rd place over 1300M in January when he went back and ran through the line well. The additional distance can suit and with only four stats behind him, there looks to be scope for ore development. (8) GREAT JENNY and (6) COUNTRY ROAD are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(2) Grand Star (4) Thunder Horse (7) Blow Mind (8) Great Jenny
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

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

(3) WONDERFUL K was sent off as favourite at class and distance on February 12th having won at this distance in the past and having posted some decent times. He led almost the entire race only to be denied by a nose on the line and under the same weight and a good gate today, has every chance of going one better. To do that, he will need to overturn the nose on the horse who beat him that day (1) VIKING HEART. The Cowboy Cal four-year-old sat handy throughout before getting in front at exactly the right time and while he had mixed his form prior to that, he too carries the same weight, draws very well, and has every chance of a repeat. There was less than a length back in that February race to (11) CAPTAIN BRAVO, who crossed the line in 3rd. He rarely misses the minor money and should be there or thereabouts again today. (10) CHEONGSAN GANGHO has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and along with the up in class (6) DIA POWERCAT, are among others to consider.

Selections(3) Wonderful K (1) Viking Heart (11) Captain Bravo (10) Cheongsan Gangho
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11
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Classic Trial Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 6)

It’s been less than three months since the last Triple Crown series finished but what with the Three-Year-Old Championship moving back to its usual place on the calendar, we are just over a month away from the first leg the KRA Cup Mile at Busan on Sunday April 17th. Therefore both Seoul and Busan run trials on Sunday with the Sports Seoul Cup in the capital and the Gyeongnam Shinmun Cup at Busan, both Listed races over 1400M. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:00 to 16:40. All betting branches are open and while the vaccine pass system has now been ended, attendance myst still be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Complete Value was champion Juvenile last year and kicks off his 2022 campaign in the Listed Sports Seoul Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings. (7) YESULIYA shapes as the one to beat having hinted at ability across five starts to date including an on-pace 2nd place over 1000M at his latest. He also has the fastest time among any of these at today’s distance and is likely to be on the lead early with claims to go all the way. (12) PURGE DAY was an improved 2nd place over 1000M on his second start back in November. He comes in here following seventeen weeks off and while the draw isn’t ideal, this looks a nice race to return in. (9) P N S GOLD ran a good 2nd on debut and while she hasn’t quite managed to build on that yet, Moon Se-young climbs back aboard and she should be in the frame today. First-timer starter (11) SAEBYEOK BAND put in a decent trial and can be considered first-up with (10) CASH BACK also entering the calculations. 

Selections(7) Yesuliya (12) Purge Day (9) P N S Gold (11) Saebyeok Band
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

It’s hard to look far past (1) FINAL CHARM here. He ran on well from a wide gate for an improved 4th on his second start on January 29th, running on well. There isn’t much early speed here so he may be on pace from the start and be hard to run down. (6) DISCO BOY is the logical second pick. He has come on from well back in his two starts so far to finish 6th and 5th. He comes up in trip today and in this limited company, should be finding at least the places. Those two should fill out the quinella as the form drops off a cliff after them. (3) MIR BEST from a good draw may improve, while (4) MONEY TAP too made-up ground after a bad start last time and can sneak some minor money too. (8) DONGBANGUI HON perhaps another one capable of getting round.

Selections(1) Final Charm (6) Disco Boy (3) Mir Best (4) Money Tap
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another hot favourite here, this time in the shape of (4) DREAM SPEED. She has finished in the top five in five of her six starts so far and has a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two. She tens to settle handy or midfield and should have way too much for this lot. (8) SHINE MUSIC comes back in trip after a spin over 1700M when she led but weakened in the home straight. She possesses the fastest time of any of these over today’s distance and has much chance as any of placing. (2) BANGTAN YEOGEOL and (3) DDATTEUTHANBIT can both be forgiven their respective latest outings. Both have performed fairly at this distance and should be in the placing frame here. (9) FYING BARIBE another with minor money hopes.

Selections(4) Dream Speed (8) Shine Music (2) Bangtan Yeogeol (3) Ddatteuthanbit
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Small field and probable warm favourite in (8) FLYING THE CHAMP. After a nondescript debut, he was a much-improved 3rd on his second start which came over 1300M on February 13th in a good time. In such a small field the outside gate shouldn’t be a problem and he may take some beating. (4) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG came from well off the pace to run a fast-finishing 2nd over 1200M on February 11th, very nearly getting to the winner. The additional half furlong can work in his favour here and he will surely be coming on strong late again. (5) DONGBU WORLD was 4th behind Eunseong Yeongung in his racecourse debut. He’d previously been through plenty of trials, worked home well and can build on that performance here. (2) PHANTOM ACE and (7) DOCTOR KONGDOLI others to consider.

Selections(8) Flying The Champ (4) Eunseong Yeongung (5) Dongbu World (2) Phantom Ace
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

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

(2) BLACK MASK has raced three times and finished as runner-up on all three occasions, twice at 1000M and most recently at 1200M. That’s enough to send him up in class here but that shouldn’t matter as from a great draw he should be on pace from the start and can lead all the way. (8) TES GO DAEBO looks to be the main danger. He too is up in class following a maiden win at start number four, but it had been coming. He can settle handy here and run on. (9) FLEX QUEEN will need a line drawn though her latest when she was slowly away from a wide gate and never made an impact. She has run well at this distance at class 6 level though and with a better start can challenge for the places. (4) ROCK FIGHTER too had a hard time at his latest when drawn wide but from a much better gate today can be given more of a chance. Another up in class following a last start win, (7) DIAMITE is another to keep safe.

Selections(2) Black Mask (8) Tes Go Daebo (9) Flex Queen (4) Rock Fighter
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(9) UNJU BULPAE looks to be working towards a win with a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two, both over 1200M. He has raced at this distance too, posting a fast time (albeit at a time when the track was extremely fast). He will be expected to be on pace or handy here and could well have too much. Both Kim Young-kwan and Djordje Perovic are in form, and they team up here with (6) WONDERFUL FILE. The filly was much improved at her second outing at this distance on February 18th and will tempt plenty here. (11) SKY JEJUHYANG has got forward in all three of her races so far. She doesn’t draw well here but has good early speed and can go close again. (4) HWARANG BRAVO and (7) BLUE CAPTAIN are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(9) Unju Bulpae (6) Wonderful File (11) Sky Jejuhyang (4) Hwarang Bravo
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 11

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

(6) EUNSEONG MARU was a good winner on debut over 1000M when coming from a handy position and running on but whatever could go wrong did on his reappearance at this class and distance on January 23rd. He pulled hard early before his saddle shifted forward at the 1000M and then he came back slightly lame. He has been back in work since mid-February and can return to winning ways here. (10) BYEOLBIT BOSEOK is yet to win in nine attempts but has six top-four finishes including at his latest start on January 22nd when he was 3rd at class and distance, settling midfield and running on. He comes up 3.5kg in the weights but should be going close. (9) NEW HOPE also comes in off a good 3rd last time out and while up in class can measure up. (11) NONSTOP CAT comes up a couple of kilos in the weights on a good 2nd place last time but should be competitive again. (4) TANK SOCKS will need to be forgiven his latest two, first over 1700M and then when getting too far back at this distance. He does have ability though and can go better this time.

Selections(6) Eunseong Maru (10) Byeolbit Boseok (9) New Hope (11) Nonstop Cat
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 10, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(7) LIGHT STORY has mixed his form since an impressive win on debut, but he has placed at this class over 1400M and comes in having run 4th over 1800M at his latest start when close to the pace throughout. He can return to winning ways today. The main danger is (9) YEONSEUNG BRAVO. He got his maiden win over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 3rd on his first try at this class on January 21. He goes best when on pace and will be aiming to get forward early here. (1) PICTURE JASPER remains a maiden but comes up in class after a good 2nd place at his latest start on February 11th. From a wide draw he got on pace and ran on well and under a lighter weight and much better gate, he can overturn the form on (6) DIA FORCE, who won that race and comes up in class too. That was a big upturn in form for the latter, but he can’t be completely ruled out here. (10) ALIVE CAPTAIN another to consider.

Selections(7) Light Story (9) Yeonseung Bravo (1) Picture Jasper (6) Dia Force
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Tricky race here as the form isn’t especially convincing all round. Without much confidence, we’ll go with (5) RUFFIAN PARK, whose sole win was at this class and distance. He also has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and comes in following a decent 3rd place finish – again at class and distance – on January 30th. He carries the same weight here and from a good draw can go well. (10) DOUBLE TAKE is yet to win in eleven but has run well at this distance, albeit at class 6 level. Choi Bum-hyun, who rode him to his best finish, climbs back aboard today and he can be competitive. (9) CHALLAN HANNAL has decent experience at this class including a runner-up finish over 1400M. In this company he should be there or thereabouts. (2) FAST TRACK and (8) REAL PACK are others in the frame.

Selections(5) Ruffian Park (10) Double Take (9) Challan Hannal (2) Fast Track
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

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

Racing moves to Seoul on Saturday with nine races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open and while vaccine passes are no longer required, attendance must still be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. There will be a hot favourite in the shape of (5) RAON THE PEARL. She ran 4th on debut at 1000M in October before stepping up to this distance at start number two on January 16th and finishing a strong 2nd when handy throughout. She’ll be on pace or handy again here and should take some beating. There are two debut-makers and of them, (4) GREEN DRAGON could go well. She worked home well in her trial in a fair time and from a could draw can put in a bold showing. (6) GIPPEUM HWANHUI improved to 3rd at her second start on January 23rd and she can continue her positive trajectory here. (1) HERA BLADE and (9) CITY CHARM others in the placing frame.                                                                                                  

Selections(5) Raon The Pearl (4) Green Dragon (6) Gippeum Hwanhui (1) Hera Blade
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2,5, 7, 8

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

Small field here and (4) FLYING ATHENA is the one to beat. After back-to-back 6th place finishes from her first two outings, she was a much-improved 2nd at start number three over 1300M on January 30th when handy and running on. She won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (2) ORGALIM has the best time among these at the distance, recorded three starts about when 2nd in early December. From a nice draw, expect him to be on pace here and to be in this a long way. (1) WILD SOCKS was beaten by Orgalim on their respective latest starts, but he draws much better today and should be a stiffer prospect.  There are two debut makers and (6) GLOBAL CASTLE looks best placed to make an immediate impact while (3) TOUCH NINE is another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Flying Athena (2) Orgalim (1) Wild Socks (6) Global Castle
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

Small but competitive field here. (6) BLACK ROOKIE comes back in trip following recent efforts at 1400M. She also comes down considerably in the weights. She has run fast times at 1300M, and this looks a suitable assignment today. (3) CHAMPION GAMUN comes up in class following a maiden win at start number eleven on January 23rd. It didn’t exactly come out of nothing, but it did mark a big uptick in form, and he draws well with a repeat not entirely out of the question. (7) VIENTO made all to win over this distance at class 6 level in December. Draw a line through her first effort at today’s trip when she was unable to settle from gate thirteen and she is worth another chance today. (4) ECTON JILJU and (8) WONDERFUL STORM other minor money prospects.

Selections(6) Black Rookie (3) Champion Gamun (7) Viento (4) Ecton Jilju
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

Big field. (2) JAY TROSS looks the one to beat having finished no worse than 4th in four outings to date. Her win came over 1000M when she made all at class 6 level but at her latest outings, she came from off the pace to run a very close 2nd at 1200M. The extended trip today can suit. (13) K N UNDERKING has a 2nd and a 6th in two starts at this class since getting his maiden win last October. His running style is to settle back and run on so the wide gate shouldn’t be too disadvantageous. (8) JANGSAN POISON comes up in class following his maiden win at start number three when making all at this distance in a fair time on January 29th. That was the first time he had led as he does have a decent finish on him as well and he should measure up in this company.  (4) SOUJU and (12) ICE STAR are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(2) Jay Tross (13) K N Underking (8) Jangsan Poison (4) Souju
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 12

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

Fillies and mares only here and plenty of them too. (10) CUPID JUMBO races for the first time since getting her maiden win at start number two over 1200M on Christmas Day. She is up in class and up in trip here but looked well enough when trailing up from a wide draw at the end of January. She can win again. (11) WONDERFUL SHADOW comes up in class and distance too following her own maiden win which came when she made all over 1000M on January 23rd. She might not get such an easy lead today but can be considered again here. (5) QUEEN OF BEST has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before. She comes up in weight today but that’s softened a little buy a better draw and she can be competitive. (8) SOEWAKKOT and (3) K N MENIQUEEN among others in the hunt.

Selections(10) Cupid Jumbo (11) Wonderful Shadow (5) Queen Of Best (8) Soewakkot
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 11
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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (February 27)

Sunday sees racing at Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:00 to 16:40). Last year’s champion three-year-old Heat Yegam makes his season-debut in Busan while in the feature in Seoul, 2019 Korea Cup winner Moonhak Chief will be among the contenders. All betting locations across Korea are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and evidence of up to fate vaccination against Covid-19 is required:

Heat Yegam races for the first time in 2022 (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies open proceedings. (6) CUPID WAY is set to be a warm favourite. That’s based on her debut when she ran on well to run 2nd in a decent time behind a good winner over 1000M with an eye-catching final furlong. She comes up in trip but that should suit, and she’ll be hard to beat. It’s hard to go past (9) SONGAM BEST for second choice She beat three of these on her way to 3rd place on debut at 1000M on January 30th and can be expected to be on pace here. (3) MENI ACE and (12) DOLBAE were two of those behind Songam Best in that January race, and both can aim to improve and get closer here. There are three first time starters and among them, (10) SINHAN TEUKSONG looks to have the best chance of making an immediate impression.

Selections(6) Cupid Way (9) Songam Best (3) Meni Ace (12) Dolbae
Next Best10, 13
Fast Start5, 9, 12, 13

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

(1) SUPERDIA is the one to beat here. After trailing fairly, she put in a very solid effort from gate twelve on debut to get handy to the lead and then run on for 3rd. She draws much better on the inside today and should get a softer run to the front and be hard to go past. (2) MARUMA will almost certainly jump as second-favourite. He won a (slow) trial in December and then ran on well from a long way back to make it up to 5th over 1000M on debut on January 9th. He too draws much better this time around, and the step up in trip should suit. (11) LONDON SKY has already had a couple of spins around this distance and hinted at progress last time. He can run on and into some money here. (4) GEOLJAK MAN can aim to match the 4th place he achieved at his latest start while (9) SMART BYEOL is another with money chances.

Selections(1) Superdia (2) Maruma (11) London Sky (4) Geoljak Man
Next Best9, 12
Fast Start1, 3, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Short-priced favourite here in the shape of (9) ASPENROS. Having run 3rd on debut at this distance, he stepped up to 1400M on January 29th and having settled midfield from gate twelve, ran on for 2nd place, ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He’ll take some beating here. (1) SMART BLUE has shown improvement at his latest two with a 2nd and a 3rd, both at 1200M. He draws well here and can continue to make progress. (7) EURO GANGJA was 3rd behind Aspenros in that January 29th race. That was an improvement, but he has seven-lengths to make up on him here. (2) FLY STAR debuted adequately in the same race and should have come on for the experience. (10) NEW A ONE another who has placing chances.

Selections(9) Aspenros (1) Smart Blue (7) Euro Gangja (2) Fly Star
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2, 8, 11, 13

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(10) MAN OF THE STAR has put in three promising runs so far including a good 3rd place over 1200M last time out when he led for much of the way around. He comes up slightly in trip today and despite the wide draw should have enough early speed to get on the lead again. This time he may not be caught. (4) GREAT CAPTAIN came home in 5th place to Man Of The Star’s 3rd on January 14th. That was an improvement from his debut, and he seemed to appreciate the step up in trip. He gets a little further today, and more development is possible. (6) GRAND SUN too hasn’t done much wrong in two outings to date, registering a 3rd and a 4th, both at 1200M. He will be on pace or handy here and can go close. (7) QUALITY QUEEN and (1) RAON THE FIGHTING, are others to consider for at least a place.

Selections(10) Man Of The Star (4) Great Captain (6) Grand Sun (7) Quality Queen
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky one where only four of the twelve have tackled the 1700M before. (1) KING MOUNTAIN has never gone further than 1200M, but he has consistently run fair times and made a significant breakthrough when 2nd at his latest start on January 9th. When sitting handy and running on. He draws nicely on the inside again and may be worth taking a chance on here. (2) NAUI NARA comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1400M and 1300M, the former time beating a few of today’s rivals. Expect him up on pace as well and he can go close. (8) DIVINE POWER has raced at this distance before and while he is yet to finished in the top-three in thirteen attempts, this is the kind of company in which he can pick up a cheque. (4) NAMSAN DREAM and (6) BLACK KING are others to enter the calculations.

Selections(1) King Mountain (2) Naui Nara (8) Divine Power (4) Namsan Dream
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 12

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

Fillies and mares only here. Despite the wide draw, (14) RADAR is going to be the favourite here. Having trailed well, she was a front-running 2nd on debut at this distance on January 28th, only going down by a small margin in a good time. The same apprentice jockey keeps the weight very light, and she will be expected to win here. (13) SAVE US didn’t do an awful lot in two starts last summer but returned on Christmas Eve after a few months off and has longed a much better prospect in two outings since. She has registered a 2nd and a 3rd, both at this distance and both in decent times. She too has a wide draw to overcome but should be equal to it. Those two should fill out the quinella in either order. (4) STELLA QUEEN may appreciate the step up in trip and could be an each-way price. (6) HAVANA JANE is the most experienced in the race by some margin; obviously not a good thing at class 6 but she has shown flashes of ability and has run good times at the trip. First-timer (9) LIONESS, potentially another who can go well.

Selections(14) Radar (13) Save Us (4) Stella Queen (6) Havana Jane
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 12, 14

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

Competitive race. (5) HEUNGHAENG DAEBAK was a winner over 1300M at class 6 level two starts back before beating a couple of these on his way to an in now way disgraced 6th on his first try at this class having navigated his way across from gate fourteen. He does come up a little in the weights today but draws much better and has a chance. (8) POWER BOX will probably be favourite. It’s fair to say that he has mixed his form across five starts so far, including a disappointing showing last time out. He has run good times at this distance and if we catch him in-form, he may be too good. (11) SEUNGSEUNG POWER comes back in trip following good showings at 1300M and 1400M. He comes up in the weights and doesn’t draw well but can be considered. (4) DESK TAP was disappointing last time behind, among others, Seungseung Power, but is better than that and can be given another chance. (13) DONMA was a shock winner on debut and could be anything.

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

Seoul has 9 races on Saturday running from the unusual start time of 11:10 and going through until 18:00. This is to accommodate an additional Jeju race to make up for the ones canceled last week due to the weather. All betting locations are open, however, reservations must be made in advance through the MyCard app and evidence of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Competitive opener. We’ll go with (2) NAMSAN HORANGI, who showed promise in two starts towards the end of last year, running 5th both times, the latter in a fair time over this trip on December 11th. He has had a couple of months off since then but looked well in a trial last week and from a nice draw can win here. (3) ACE PLAN showed improvement at his latest outing on January 29th when tackling this distance for the first time and only going down narrowly for 2nd in a tight finish. He can sit handy and run on here and will be a danger. So too (8) GLOBAL BOBAE, who comes up in trip after a 2nd and a 4th in two efforts over 1000M. He ran on well enough both times and the additional furlong shouldn’t be an issue here. (13) CLAIR BEST ran 4th on debut last September. He didn’t offer too many clues in a January trial but may be of interest here. (6) CONCORD QUEEN looks on the correct trajectory having improved significantly at start number two when 3rd to Ace Plan’s 2nd

Selections(2) Namsan Horangi (3) Ace Plan (8) Global Bobae (13) Clair Best
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start6, 8, 11, 13

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

(4) MUSTANG POWER is set to be the one to beat here. He came off the pace to run 2nd over 1000M leading him to be sent off as favourite on reappearance at this distance on January 29th. Things didn’t go his way that day and he finished in 6th place, but the margins weren’t huge, and he looks well worth another go here. (6) RISING HAWK is another who will need to be forgiven his latest start when he raced four wide with no cover throughout.  He had been more encouraging on debut, and in this company should be able to get on or close to the early speed. (3) HATMURI has worked home well in all three of his starts to date including last time out when beating a couple of these on his way to 6th place. Expect him to settle midfield here and come on strong late. (10) K N SKETCH took forever to get going on debut but should have come on for the experience and the additional furlong may assist. (8) BURUI JILJU among others with placing chances.

Selections(4) Mustang Power (6) Rising Hawk (3) Hatmuri (10) K N Sketch
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 12

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

Fillies only here. (11) WONDERFUL WOMAN goes on top following her best finish to date on January 29th when she led for much of the way around over this distance, ultimately coming home in 2nd place. The draw is not kind today but expect here to be quickly up on pace again and she can go all the way this time. (1) WONDERFUL HAWAII was a much-improved 2nd on her latest start, albeit a long way behind a good winner. She gets the inside gate here and can maintain her momentum. (12) K N POST ran on adequately for 6th on debut at this distance in January. She posted a fast final furlong time, and the jockey booking catches the eye here. (9) EAST MAGIC and (4) HWARYEOHAN MISO are others who may have a say in the placings.

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

Raon The Fighter is the main draw on Sunday as the hottest property in Korean racing seeks to make it ten wins in a row. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:00 to 16:40. All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and evidence of up to date vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Raon The Fighter (KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens go round here with five racing for the first time. One of those is set to be our top pick in the shape of (2) COMPLETE WEAPON.  He has been through two trials, winning the most recent of them in a fast time in early December and while it has taken him a couple of months to get to the racecourse, this looks like a winnable assignment first up. Sticking with first timers, (4) JEONGMUN JILJU was also a trial winner, sitting handy and then running on strong in his heat and he too looks set to make a bold showing on debut. Turning to those with experience, (11) EUNHYE has a 2nd and 3rd from two three starts so far, with both the good results being at this distance. He has proven able to run well from on pace or behind, so the wide draw isn’t too much of a concern. (8) GOLDEN SCOOP was a much-improved 2nd when on pace at this distance on January 22nd and she, along with (10) CONCORDE SPURT, are others to take into consideration.

Selections(2) Complete Weapon (4) Jeongmun Jilju (11) Eunhye (8) Golden Scoop
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start2, 4. 8, 14

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

(1) GRAND POWER will be a warm favourite here after a much-improved showing over 1000M on January 23rd when he was on pace for the first time and ran on well. He comes back up in trip here but draws nicely on the inside and won’t need to go much better to win this one. (11) LONDON POWER has shown decent consistency with four top four finishes. She has run some fair times at this distance and is likely to be on pace from the start and be in this a long way. (13) ROAD ACE was 3rd behind Grand Power in that January 23rd race. He has three top five finishes from six starts so far and despite the wide draw can be going close here. (5) QUEEN LION and (6) NUMBER ONE TARGET, the latter with the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before, are others in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Grand Power (11) London Power (13) Road Ace (5) Queen Lion
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start1, 6, 11, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s hard to look past (6) BE CRAZY here. He has two 4ths and a last start 3rd from three appearances to date, the latest being that 3rd over this distance on January 16th when he sat on pace throughout. He can lead here and should be too good. (12) MIDAS CAMP has the fastest time among these at the distance and enters off a good 3rd place at 1200M a month ago He had an apprentice on that day so loses the 4kg claim here and draws wide but can go close again. (3) HANGANG BOSS had a hard time from a wide draw at his latest start but if you can draw a line through that, his previous two efforts were good. Coming into a better gate today, he can be given another chance. (8) OKDONG GONGJU is yet to win but has six top five finishes to his name and can aim to place here. (2) SINJURYU another in the minor money frame.

Selections(6) Be Crazy (12) Midas Camp (3) Hangang Boss (8) Okdong Gongju
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 11, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies only here. We’ll go with (6) DOCTOR KONGSUNI who starts for the third time having improved to 2nd at her latest start on January 21st when stepped up to this distance. She was on pace that day and should be again and may have too much. (4) SANGIM YEOWANG overcame a wide draw to run a solid 3rd on debut over 1000M three weeks ago. She comes up in trip here, gets a better gate and Seo Seung-un climbs aboard so there is plenty to like. (2) WONDERFUL CUTIE and (8) CHEONGHO BOSS came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced one another at 1000M on January 16th. It was a big improvement for Wonderful Cutie while it was a debut outing for Cheongho Boss. The latter has since gone back and won a trial and both can be competitive today. In that trial, (1) PYEONGHWA CHUKJE ran 4th, a second encouraging performance, and she looks the best of the three first-time starters.

Selections(6) Doctor Kongsuni (4) Sangim Yeowang (2) Wonderful Cutie (8) Cheongho Boss
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 13

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

Maiden fillies here. The two French jockeys face off on the likely top-two in the market and we’ll side with Johan Victoire and (7) GALSAEK HYANGGI to prevail. The Menifee filly comes in having run 4th at her latest start at this distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process in a good time. She tends to settle back and run on and today can be her day. David Breux and (13) FIRST ROAD is the big danger. She has a 2nd place to her name, recorded two starts back at 1200M and she overcame a similarly wide draw to run 4th at that same distance at her latest start on January 16th. She has a good finish on her and will be running on here. (8) DONGSEO YEOGEOL has got a bit far back in her latest two but can be given another chance here from a better draw. (10) WONDERFUL NIKIYA and (11) TINA are others with genuine placing chances.

Selections(7) Galsaek Hyanggi (13) First Road (8) Dongseo Yeogeol (10) Wonderful Nikiya
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start1, 8, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(12) CHAMP GO is the logical top pick here. He has the fastest time of those who have tackled the distance before and enters in excellent form with a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two appearances. It’s true that he doesn’t draw as favourably today but an apprentice keeps his weight down and with a little luck at the start, he can win this. (1) LINE BREAKER has been doing his best work late in all three of his outings so far at shorter distances. From a much better draw and out to an extended trip, he can go very close here. (2) CHOEGANG FORCE also comes up in trip. He has three top four finishes from four starts to date and came from well back for a fast-finishing 4th last time out. He has the fastest average time for the final furlong and can be a danger here. (9) ZERAGE and (6) BAEK SEOL QUEEN are among others in the hunt.

Selections(12) Champ Go (1) Line Breaker (2) Choegang Force (9) Zerage
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start5, 7, 12, 14
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