Seoul

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 30)

Saturday’s action is at Seoul where there is a lengthy 15-race program running from 2pm to 9pm. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens on the opener with seven of the eleven making their racecourse debuts. We’ll go with experience and (3) GEUMA ALLURE was an in no way disgraced 6th of nine on debut over this trip on June 18th when settling back and running on in a fair time. She comes into a better gate today and that experience can prove valuable. So it can for (10) NEMO PRINCE. He ran 2nd in a trial before finishing in 5th of eight on his debut on June 25th, also settling back and running on. He draws wider here but should be a danger. Of the first-time starters, (2) EFFEL TAP ran 3rd in a trial earlier this month. He raced handy and with not much early speed here, from a good draw he can possibly lead here. (6) BAEDARI GONGJU and (7) GIPPEUM HWANHO other debut-makers who may go close.

Selections(3) Geuma Allure (10) Nemo Prince (2) Effel Tap (6) Baedari Gongju
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

Having run 3rd on debut, (4) HIDDEN BLADE was sent off as favourite for her second start which came at this distance on July 9th. Although she led, she weakened in the closing stages finishing down the pack. She can be given another chance here and with Munro taking the ride and a good draw again, this time she may make no mistake. (1) YONGCHEON JISANG took a couple of goes to figure things out but has a 2nd and a 4th from his latest two, both at this distance. He draws very nicely again to drop in behind the early speed and run on. (7) SHOOTING REVERSE was an improved 2nd on her most recent outing over this distance on June 26th, albeit a fair distance behind a good winner. Her style has been to settle back and come from off the pace and she can be a danger here late on. (5) HWARANG TODAY raced just the once, all the way back in October of last year and showed promise, running 2nd over 1000M. He looked well when trialing on July 8th and can put in a big show first-up here. (10) DUSON DRIVE another in the frame.

Selections(4) Hidden Blade (1) Yongcheon Jisang (7) Shooting Reverse (5) Hwarang Today
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

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

Wide open race. (7) LAST CALL has the fastest time among these at the distance, recorded when 4th last December. He was out for seven months after that, returning with a 5th place over this distance on July 10th. He will have needed that and while he does come up 3kg, can go closer today. (10) K N TIZWON has three top-four finishes among four starts so far. He comes in following his best of 3rd over 1200M on June 11th. An apprentice takes 4kg off his back and he can be a big danger here. (9) STAR CRAZY also benefits from an apprentice claim. He led for much of the way around at his latest start on July 3rd, ultimately running 2nd and while the draw doesn’t favour him this time, he has enough speed to get forward early and be in this a long way. (3) ECHO ZONE and (2) GLOBAL STORM others with placing claims.

Selections(7) Last Call (10) K N Tizwon (9) Star Crazy (3) Echo Zone
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 10

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

(11) KING HONOR comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on July 2nd having raced handily throughout. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and while he draws the car park here, he doesn’t necessarily need to lead and should have enough about him to get the job done here. (8) EUNHYE RECORD comes in off a best finish to date of 2nd, scored over 1300M on June 26th when settling midfield and running on well. He has run fairly at this distance too and looks to be the main danger to the favourite. (3) P N S THE KING has a 2nd place to his name and is another who has shown ability at this distance. He draws well here and can be a threat. (10) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE and (4) HEEMANG WARRIOR among others in the frame.

Selections(11) King Honor (8) Eunhye Record (3) P N S The King (10) Neoreul Eungwonhae
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 11

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

(9) CONCORDE SPURT is the one to beat here. He steps up to this trip for the first time having shown good ability over 1200M including his last start runner-up finish at this class when he settled midfield and ran on. His solitary win was gate to wire so he is tactically versatile and should have too much for this field. (8) NONSTOP WINNING doesn’t exactly do that but he does come in following a good 3rd place at class and distance last time out on June 25th. A similar run will put him in the finish here. (4) BLUE CHARM enters off back-to-back 3rd places at 1700M and 1200M. He’s run fair times at this trip too and shouldn’t be too far away again. (1) NEW SMART is up in class but down in weight and can be competitive (2) MIR POWER, a last start winner over 1300M, also comes up in class and can measure up.

Selections(9) Concorde Spurt (8) Nonstop Winning (4) Blue Charm (1) New Smart
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Wide open race. (4) WORLD KING MAN ran 2nd on debut before winning at start number two, both over 1000M and both times handy throughout. He comes up in class here and out in trip, but both can be overcome, and he has every chance of winning again. (10) A ONE STAR has very similar form coming up in class following victory at his second start over 1000M on June 25th. He settled back and worked through the line well so the step up in trip can suit. (2) CHANGER is another up in class after a maiden win. In his case it was at the sixth time of asking on July 3rd, but it was over this distance. He has plenty of weight to carry but draws well and can be competitive. (6) DOWN THE ZONE and (5) BURUI GASOK are others with solid claims.

Selections(4) World King Man (10) A One Star (2) Changer (6) Down The Zone
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(7) DREAM K won on debut over 1200M back in May before running 2nd to Cosmo on her first try at this class and distance on June 19th. It was a fast time, and a similar run will see her home on top here. (1) GEUMSEONG CROWN comes up in class following a comfortable win over this distance on July 2nd. He draws nicely on the inside and can be competitive at this level. (5) SEMYEONG NARAE has plenty of experience at this level and her recent form reads well, especially her class and distance 2nd place on June 26th. She has consistently run good times at 1300M and will be in the hunt for another place finish here. (10) HOEDURYEONG has the fastest time of any of these over the trip and along with (2) BICHUI DAERYUK is another in the money frame.

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Owners’ Cup Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (July 24)

The Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) is the feature race of the day as Raon The Fighter seeks to get back to winning ways after two shock defeats. See here for a horse-by-horse preview of the race. The Owners’ Cup is the concluding race 7 at Busan on a card that runs from 11:35 to 17:05. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Meni Hero was a surprise winner of last year’s Owners’ Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

A juvenile maiden to open with and while the field is small, it’s a good one. (7) GIANT PUNCH is worth favourite status having run the fastest time among these on his debut on June 18th when handy throughout. He’ll probably sit handy again and could prove too strong late on. The latest off Raon’s Musket Man production line is (6) RAON THE HIGHMAN. He debuts here having won a trial in a fast time in June and he looks set for a bold showing first-up. (1) STRONG CHARM was a good 2nd on debut on June 25th. Expect him to be on pace from the inside gate and he should be in this a long way. (2) DUSON CLASSIC and (4) WHITE WITCH came home 2nd and 4th when they debuted together on June 18th. Their times were only fair, but both hinted at ability and there could be some natural improvement here.

Selections(7) Giant Punch (6) Raon The Highman (1) Strong Charm (2) Duson Classic
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies and it’s hard to look past (9) INNER PEACE. She has run 3rd in both her starts to date, both at this distance and registering good times. She has run on the pace both times so the draw may not be ideal, but she should be able to overcome it and will take some beating. (5) BARAMSAL looks to be figuring things out with three 4th place finishes from her latest three outings. She should settle midfield and run on and should be aiming for a career best finish here. (6) SPEED ACE was an improved 3rd at start number two on June 26th, settling back and running on. He can be a contender here. (2) MONEY TAP and (8) COSMO QUEEN among others with placing chances.

Selections(9) Inner Peace (5) Baramsal (6) Speed Ace (2) Money Tap
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

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

Juvenile maidens with four of the eight racing for the first time. (4) DOCTOR OSCAR will start as the hot favourite, having run 2nd on debut on June 24th, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. She was on pace throughout and should get into the lead here and go all the way. Of the first-timer starters, (6) K.AI looks the pick. He led practically the entire way in his trial in early June, crossing the line well clear of the field in a fair time. If he can bring that form to the races, then he has a good chance. (2) RELEASE EDITION ran 5th on debut behind Doctor Oscar in that June 24th race. With some natural improvement from that run, he can get closer today. (5) PEOPLE POWER and (7) NALA, the latter a first-time starter, others who could potentially place.

Selections(4) Doctor Oscar (6) K.Ai (2) Release Edition (5) People Power
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

A competitive race with plenty of chances. (7) RUBY CAT showed plenty of promise across five starts in 2021 with a best of 3rd over 1200M. She also ran well at this distance. She races for the first time since last December but looked well when winning a June trial and has every chance of a bold first-up showing here. If the lengthy layoff raises a red flag, then (11) EUNPA MOUNTAIN is the logical pick. After a chastening debut, he has run 3rd and 4th in two starts since, both at 1200M. He draws wide but the additional half furlong can suit, and he can be a danger. (2) BLOW MIND comes back in trip following recent work over 1700M. He has a 3rd place to his name at this distance and from a good draw can go close today. (4) GANGCHEOL BUDAE and (10) SONGAM DRAGON others in the frame.

Selections(7) Ruby Cat (11) Eunpa Mountain (2) Blow Mind (4) Gangcheol Budae
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start4, 7, 10, 11

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

Tricky puzzle here. (5) HANSEN ICHEON returns for the first time since last November. He had shown ability in three starts last year with a 3rd place over 1400M his best. He impressed in a July 2nd trial when handy to the lead and crossing the line with the same time as the “winner”. If he brings that form to the races, he may win. (1) SKY SEUNG races for the first time. The filly good when trialing up in June and draws a very nice gate on the inside. She can go close in what is not an intimidating race to debut in. (3) MORNING MUSE has been consistent with a 5th and a 3rd from his latest two. His times haven’t been spectacular but in the absence of much gate speed here, he may get a soft run to the front and could take some dislodging. (8) SKY ARCH and (4) PUNGAN JOHWA others with placing chances.

Selections(5) Hansen Icheon (1) Sky Seung (3) Morning Muse (8) Sky Arch
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

(1) THE FAVORITE will, for once, be exactly that. Yet to score in eight, he has six top-four finishes including his latest on July 9th when running 2nd at class and distance. From the inside gate and in this small field he can get a soft lead and make all. (2) SAEROUN BOBAE is yet to win in twenty-four starts but knows how to pick up a cheque with eleven top-five finishes. That includes a 3rd at her latest outing on May 8th and she has solid claims to place again. (5) MAIN OF KING is another many-start maiden but he too comes in with recent form reading well, especially her 2nd place two starts back at class and distance. She can be handy to the speed here and run on. (7) STAR RUSH and (6) FEDERAL EYE others with money chances.

Selections(1) The Favorite (2) Saeroun Bobae (5) Main Of King (7) Star Rush
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

Competitive race. (8) LADY GOLDEN won over this distance at class 3 level two starts back, coming out of the widest gate to settle midfield and then run on well. She then ran a creditable 4th on her first try at this level over the extended 1400M on June 19th. She looks nicely in here, Perovic knows her well, and she can win. (6) TAMNA HANEUL is vastly experienced and the seven-year-old is seemingly having a late career resurgence with a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two. She gets in here under a very light weight, draws well, and can go close again. (9) RAON THE FLASH is yet to win n eight starts but has five top-four finishes. She comes in following a useful class and distance 2nd on June 26th and should be competitive again today. (5) HALLOWEEN PARTY comes up in class and distance but can measure up while (1) GIANT CAL is another who could potentially place.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 23)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul runs on the afternoon and evening schedule this Saturday

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

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener and seven of the eight race for the first time. (7) HANGANG MUSIC did enough in her trial to warrant favourite status. She led from gate to wire, crossing the line on top in a time faster than any of the others in the race achieved and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (4) MAGIC CONCERT comes out of the same trial on May 13th when she sat handy and ran 4th. She had to contend with a wide gate that day and can get an easier run here. Experience often counts in these races and (2) ULTRA SOCKS is the only one who has it. She ran fairly on debut, finishing 6th of nine but should have benefitted for it and with natural improvement can get closer. (3) JAEWOO SIDAE and (1) APGUJEONG CHITA other first-timers who could make an impression.

Selections(7) Hangang Music (4) Magic Concert (2) Ultra Socks (3) Jaewoo Sidae
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

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

More juvenile maiden fillies and once again seven of the eight are first-time starters. (5) BAEKDU MEOTJAENGI finished ahead of a couple of today’s rivals when running 3rd in a fair time in a July 1st trial. She led for much of the heat and if she can get the lead again here, she may prove hard to pass. The experienced one is (6) ARGO GONGJU. She finished last on debut but didn’t disgrace herself and with some natural improvement from that run can start to figure things out here. (8) MOON DUST trialed competently enough, sitting handy and running on. A similar run here will put her in contention. (2) SUPREME STAR and (1) GHOST WOLF are others who did enough in trials to suggest taking note of first-up here.

Selections(5) Baekdu Meotjaengi (6) Argo Gongju (8) Moon Dust (2) Supreme Star
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

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

Anything could win this very ordinary maiden. (10) P N S SING has hinted at figuring things out in her recent outings. She has run a decent time at this distance and ran on well for 5thover 1300M last time out. She has as much chance as any. (2) WHIZ UP improved to 4th at start number two back in April when handy all the way. He returns off a sixteen-week layoff but could well be favourite in this company. From a good gate he should be on the pace and he has good claims. (1) DONGBANG SAGI has a 4th place at this distance and ran well for 5th in a better race than this last time. From the inside gate she can settle behind the leaders and run on. (7) INDIE POP and (11) EURO TEUKGEUP are others who could be in the mix.

Selections(10) P N S Sing (2) Whiz Up (1) Dongbang Sagi (7) Indie Pop
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start2, 8, 10, 11

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

Maiden fillies. (8) LAROMANEE looks the one to beat based on her last start runner-up finish at this distance on June 19th when she sat handy throughout. Her time that day was significantly faster than any of the others here have registered and she should have too much today. (6) MAGIC MOCCASIN has four top-four finishes from five starts to date. She has the best start among these and from a fair draw should get to the lead and be in this a long way. (5) LOST WAR is yet to win in sixteen outings but has plenty of money finishes and enters in consistent form. She can sit handy to the lead and run on for a place. (1) DONGSEO YEOGEOL led for much of the way at 1300M last time out before ultimately finishing 3rd. She can go close again. (9) PAX NURI has potential for improvement.

Selections(8) Laromanee (6) Magic Moccasin (5) Lost War (1) Dongseo Yeogeol
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 8
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 16)

The afternoon and evening racing season continues at Seoul on Saturday with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens kick things off with six of the eight racing for the very first time. There are a couple of promising newcomers but experience can often count in these races we’ll side with (1) LUCKY POWER, who ran a decent enough 3rd on debut at this distance on June 18th when handy throughout. He should have benefitted for that, draws nicely on the inside, and can win here. (8) WONPYEONG TOWN ran fairly for 5th on his own debut in a fast race on the same day. He too should have come on for the run and with some natural improvement get closer today. The stand out first-timer is (5) RAON GIANT. The Musket Man filly made all to win her trial and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (6) ULTRA GALAXY and (4) LONDON BISANG others who look promising first-up.

Selections(1) Lucky Power (8) Wonpyeong Town (5) Raon Giant (6) Ultra Galaxy
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

Competitive maiden. (2) MUSTANG CHARM has shown good consistency across her six starts including a good runner-up finish over this distance two starts back. She draws a nice gate here and could get an easy run to the lead. Today can be her day. (4) AL SIMON has hinted at figuring things out across her latest couple and ran a good time when 4th at this distance on June 4th. She can settle behind the early leaders here and she has the fastest final furlong average time of any of these. Apprentice jockey Lee Sang-gyu takes his first race ride here and it is a promising one. (1) TIZ FIGHTING comes in having run a much-improved 2nd over 1300M on June 11th. He comes into a good gate here and Lee takes a full 4kg off his back. (8) TOP POSITION and (9) HANGANG DOLPUNG others in the frame.

Selections(2) Mustang Charm (4) Al Simon (1) Tiz Fighting (8) Top Position
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

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

(3) MARUMA comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at this distance and both in good times. He was on the pace in those races and from a good draw, he should be able to get to the lead and this time can win. (4) DONGBANGUI HON has been knocking on the door in his latest few outings with a pair of 3rds and a pair of 4ths. At his last start he beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over this distance and he should be in the mix again. (2) CLAIR POWER got a long way back in his first two races, before running on well late. On his third appearance on July 3rd, he settled closer, albeit in a smaller field, and he ran an improved 2nd. He’ll be a danger here. (1) HANEUL A has steadily improved over her four starts and along with (8) GLOBAL PRIME, is another to enter the calculations.

Selections(3) Maruma (4) Dongbangui Hon (2) Clair Power (1) Haneul A
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

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

Wide open race with plenty having credible winning claims. We’ll give the nod to (7) WONDERFUL SAM based on her last start 2nd at class and distance on May 22nd when she settled midfield and then ran on strongly. That was in restricted filly company but a similar run will put her firmly in the mix here. (4) SAINT LUCCA got his win at this distance when ridden on pace. He has mixed his form in three outings since but ran a good 3rd, again over this trip, on June 12th and if he can be ridden forward from a good gate today, he can go close. (2) SILVER STAR has outperformed her odds in her latest two running 4th and 3rd, both at this distance. She was beaten by Wonderful Sam last time out but can be competitive here. (11) NUBIGO and (8) THE FIGHTING among others to consider in a race of many chances.

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Ilgan Sports Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 10)

The Listed Ilgan Sports Trophy is the feature race on a day where there are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Last year’s Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup winner Eodigana is among those in the Ilgan Sports Trophy (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky maiden to open with. Without too much confidence, we’ll side with (5) LONDON MYEONGGA. He has hinted at figuring out what to do in his latest two, running 5th both times over 1300M and 1200M. Moon Se-young getting booked today may suggest this is his time. (1) PERFECT TIME was a significantly improved 2nd when stepped up to this trip on June 5th. She settled back and ran on well in a fair time that time and won’t need to improve much to go very close here. (7) GLOBAL STORM ran a solid 3rd at this distance on June 11th and from a similar gate and against similar calibre opposition can be competitive again. (6) RESERVED JOHN and (3) LAST CALL others to consider.

Selections(5) London Myeongga (1) Perfect Time (7) Global Storm (6) Reserved John
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race featuring six fillies and one gelding. (2) BAEKDU MIIN ran out a very pleasing gate to wire winner over this distance on debut on May 28th, overcoming a wide draw to lead. She comes up in class here but is down in weights and comes into a better gate with solid claims of maintaining her 100% record. The primary danger is (4) OLD START who comes back in trip having led for much of the way around 1400M at his latest outing on May 14th. He has run good times at this distance and will be expected to be on the lead again here. (3) NANA LAND too is another who has put in some decent times at the distance and while she can get a bit far back in her races, should be competitive here. (5) GO GO STAR beat Nana Land when they faced one another on June 11th. That was an uptick on recent form, but she shouldn’t be ruled out. (7) HAPPY NEWMA comes up in class off a slightly unexpected all the way win over this distance back in April and may measure up.

Selections(2) Baekdu Miin (4) Old Start (3) Nana Land (5) Go Go Star
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

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

Seven juveniles make their racecourse debuts here so it’s to the trial videos that we head. We find that (6) GOLD ROSE was the most convincing in her heat, making all to cross the line well ahead of the rest in a fair time over the 1000M. If she brings that form to the races, she will be hard to beat. (5) BUILD UP ran 2nd in his trial but it was in a time almost as fast as that of Gold Rose. He settled back and ran on and is set for a bold showing first-up. (7) I’M KING IJI made all to win his heat. The time was touch slower than some of today’s rivals but nevertheless, he di what he needed to do and should have come on for the experience. (3) PISTOL STAR posted the quickest time of any of them in trials. It was a fast heat on a wet track but should stand him in good stead here. (1) THUNDER CROWN didn’t disgrace himself either and draws nicely on debut.

Selections(6) Gold Rose (5) Build Up (7) I’m King Iji (3) Pistol Star
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

Three main ones in the frame here but his last start 2nd at class and distance is enough to tip the balance toward (3) NAMSAN CHOCOLATE. She does come up in the weights by 2kg from that day when she settled behind the lead and ran on behind a good winner, but that’s balanced a little by a better gate and today can be here day. (7) TIZ SUCCESS comes up in class following a 2nd place on debut followed by a win, both at today’s distance. She has raced handy to the lead both times and while this is harder, she is lightly weighted and can measure up in this company. (8) BLUE CHARM is yet to win in fifteen starts but has been consistently close. He comes back in trip and should be a danger here running on. (1) M J TIME and (5) GOLDEN SCOOP, who has won a trial since her latest outing, are others to consider.

Selections(3) Namsan Chocolate (7) Tiz Success (8) Blue Charm (1) M J Time
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

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

After an indifferent debut, (6) HANEUL JILJU has, over three subsequent outings, looks very much as though she is working towards a maiden win with a 4th, 3rd and a 2nd. She has led in all those races, will surely do so again here, and this time she should come out on top. It took (1) PHANTOM QUEEN a little bit longer to show that she is figuring things out but her form in her latest two certainly reads well with a 4th and a 3rd. She doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim today but that’s countered by having Seo Seung-un climb aboard and she should be running on late. (5) SIMON TOP GUN has mixed her form across her thirteen starts so far. She is yet to finish in the top-three but has plenty of minor money finishes and in this company can be looking for a best result to date. (2) DOCTOR PERSIA and (4) BOOMY STAR others who may be competitive.

Selections(6) Haneul Jilju (1) Phantom Queen (5) Simon Top Gun (2) Doctor Persia
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 9)

The summer racing season continues at Seoul on Saturday with a 10-race afternoon and evening card that runs from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

The lights will be on at Seoul Raecourse again this Saturday evening

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

Juvenile maidens here with five of the seven racing for the first time and one of the two experienced ones is set to be hot favourite. That’s (2) WORLD KING MAN, who produced a strong 2nd on debut on June 18th over this distance when sitting behind the speed and running on in a good time. He was well beaten by a good winner but showed enough to suggest that he won’t need to improve very much to take some beating here. The other experienced one is (6) ARGO TAP, who ran out of steam in the closing stages having led for much of the way around on May 28th. He should have come on for that run and with a good apprentice jockey taking significant weight off, he can get closer. Pick of the first timers is (1) TOHO SKY. He significantly improved on his second trial, leading all the way around in a fair time. He draws nicely to get a good early position here and can be in this a long way. (4) GEUMBITMA and (7) RAON FOREST others to look out for first up.

Selections(2) World King Man (6) Argo Tap (1) Toho Sky (4) Geumbitma
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

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

Three-year-old maidens. (6) CHAPEL PRINCESS is the one to beat. She has a 4th and a pair of 5th place finishes from three starts so far, all at this distance and in the process has registered a faster time than any of the others in the race. On her latest outing she led and beat a couple of today’s rivals and from a fair draw should be on pace again and go all the way. (9) TANSAN beat a couple of these when 4th on debut in April and then ran a creditable 5th on her reappearance on June 4th. She has gone well back both times before running on and that style suggests the draw isn’t an issue and she can be a danger in the closing stages. After that pair, the form drops off significantly. (1) VINCERO KING with the benefit of a claim and the inside gate looks the logical third-pick while it’s possible (5) HANGANG HERO and (2) BEST FALCON could improve.

Selections(6) Chapel Princess (9) Tansan (1) Vincero King (5) Hangang Hero
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

Tricky maiden with many offering light claims but few convincing. (10) WONDERFUL MUSIC looks as good as any. She has a 4th and a 5th from two outings so far and while her times have been nothing special they can measure up here. Her running style suggests the draw isn’t a problem and with a bit of improvement she could win. (5) CHANCELLOR is the only one of these to have placed, something he achieved two starts back over this distance, and that should be enough to send him off as favourite here. From a good draw, he’ll be on pace. (9) THUNDER NURI has the best time among these at the distance, recorded on a sloppy track in March, and while her subsequent form hasn’t been convincing, she may be worth an each-way interest here. (3) GRACE LEE, who raced twice indifferently last year, could be a better prospect this time, having won a June trial, and (1) SUMMER ACE others in the frame.

Selections(10) Wonderful Music (5) Chancellor (9) Thunder Nuri (3) Grace Lee
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

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

Fillies only here and it’s hard to look far past (5) HIDDEN BLADE. Having trialed up well at the second attempt in April, she debuted on June 4th and ran a close 3rd in a good time at this distance having settled midfield and ran on. She should have come on for that experience and with some natural improvement today, she should win this. (6) LUCKY INDY didn’t get off to a good start on her latest appearance on April 17th when beaten by a couple of today’s rivals. The time before though she was an on pace 2nd and having returned from a couple of months off and with a better break, she can get close today. (3) ZELOS was a much-improved 2nd on June 12th at this distance. From a good draw, she can keep her momentum going today. (9) RALLY QUEEN and (4) GEOSEN GANGJA others who can place.

Selections(5) Hidden Blade (6) Lucky Indy (3) Zelos (9) Rally Queen
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

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

(2) INVICTUS was a good winner over 1200M at class 6 level three starts back and has subsequently run competently enough for 4th and 5th in two tries at this level over 1400M and 1300M. She stays at the same weight, draws a nice gate, and has claims here. The main danger is (7) BYEORAK. His solitary win came at this distance in January and he comes in having run a class and distance 5th on his latest start on June 18th. Moon Se-young climbs aboard and he is sure to have backers today. (5) THE FAVORITE once again won’t have that status but while she is yet to win in seven attempts, she has five top-four finishes. She likes to be on pace so draws well and carries a light weight. (8) CHADOL RUN comes up in class having secured her maiden win over 1200M a month ago and along with (6) LONDON QUEEN can be considered for the minors.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 3)

Sunday’s racing is at both Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (7 races from 11:35 to 17:05). Entry to both racecourses is free across this weekend. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(5) MIGHTY ANN will be the favouite here and she looks hard to go past. She enters off a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, both times on pace. In this small field she will be expected to lead and should go all the way. (8) DONGTEUJA WAY debuted back in March, finishing back in the pack in a fast race on a wet track at this distance. He had previously shown a bit of speed in a trial and with some natural improvement here, can go closer. Debut-maker (2) DANAEUN ROSE overcame the widest gate in a trial to get to the front and run on to cross the line 3rd. She can join the favourite on the speed here and can produce a bold showing first-up. (1) EAST MAGIC and (4) HWANGOO GANGJA the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Mighty Ann (8) Dongteuja Way (2) Danaeun Rose (1) East Magic
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

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

(2) CHANGER was a beaten favourite on his second start on June 4th when on pace but weakening late on to finish 6th. He had previously run 2nd over this trip on April 23rd so we’ll give him another chance here against limited opposition. (1) RED WARRIOR was well fancied on debut having run well in an April trial. He showed on pace in the May 22nd race at this distance but dropped away in the final furlong. He should have come on from that and can be a different prospect today. (5) WONDERFUL MUSKET raced twice in December 2020 and March 2021 but hasn’t been seen since. She performed well in a trial in mid-June and the jockey booking catches the eye. (7) ANYANG SAJA and (8) GUK HYANG others with placing chances.

Selections(2) Changer (1) Red Warrior (5) Wonderful Musket (7) Anyang Saja
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

Seven previously unraced juveniles get their first taste of racing here so it’s to the trial videos we head. The standout is (1) BETELGEUSE. He looked very assured in his trial crossing the line 4th in a fast time under minimal pressure. He draws nicely to be on pace here and while that trial was back at the end of April, his star can shine bright first-up. (4) ILGANG DAERO was the next best in trials, settling midfield and then running through the line well in 2nd in a good time. (2) CHEONSAUI NORAE too settled back in her heat and ran on pleasingly for 3rd place. She gets a good draw and should be working home strongly again. Stablemate of Betelgeuse (7) ARCTURUS continues the space theme. He didn’t do much wrong when trialling and can go well first-up. (3) WONDERFUL ANDOVER came through the same heat as Ilgang Daero and while further back, wasn’t too far away.

Selections(1) Betelgeuse (4) Ilgang Daero (2) Cheonsaui Norae (7) Arcturus
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

(3) VESPER returned from over a year out to run 2nd over 1200M on May 29th when she went right back at the start but finished powerfully, albeit well beaten by a good winner. She should have come on for the run, comes into a better gate today and can go one better with the slightly additional trip in her favour. The main danger is (4) ACE PLAN. He enters in consistent form with a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from his latest three outings all at this distance and with some good times. He’ll be on pace here and could well go all the way. (2) CAMP SAVER comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at 1200M. She is another one who likes to run on pace, and she draws nicely here. (1) SAEBYEOK BAND and (5) CLAIR POWER are others in the money hunt.

Selections(3) Vesper (4) Ace Plan (2) Camp Saver (1) Saebyeok Band
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

Maiden fillies (and one mare) here with three racing for the first time. One of the newcomers is the top pick in the shape of (3) TOTAL ECLIPSE. She led her trial, ultimately running 2nd in a fast time behind a horse who ran 3rd of eight on his own debut last week. She can put her rivals in the shade here. Having run 2nd on debut, (11) QUEEN ALLIE had a poor day at the office when favourite on her return on May 29th, seemingly becoming unbalanced early in the race and never playing a role. She was sent back to trial after that, and she won a heat on June 11th in fine style and is worth another chance here. (4) CROWD ONE has been consistent if unspectacular across six starts so far. Similar runs to her latest should see her in the finish here. Stablemate of Total Eclipse, (9) KATNISS isn’t very quick, but she did lead at her latest outing on June 3rd, holding on for 3rd. She comes in under a light weight and a repeat can’t be ruled out. (5) POCKET POWER has been through loads of trials and finally makes it to the races with a chance first-up.

Selections(3) Total Eclipse (11) Queen Allie (4) Crowd One (9) Katniss
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

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

A weak maiden here. (2) MIR POWER probably warrants favourite status based on her 3rd place two starts back over 1200M. She only beat a couple home on her next outing on June 19th but while she comes up in the weights, Moon Se-young gets the leg up today and she has as good a chance as any. (1) STAR CRAZY has shown his best form in trials, but he draws a good gate here and the apprentice keeps his carried weight low. He should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (3) GEUMA WITTY comes up in trip following a couple of creditable performances at 1200M. She has been one-paced but that may be enough to see her into some money here. (5) DEVIL K only beat one home on debut but did win a trial and may improve. (7) HEEMANG WARRIOR managed a 3rd place on debut on May 1st and while it was a slow race, that alone is enough to being her into contention in this company.

Selections(2) Mir Power (1) Star Crazy (3) Geuma Witty (5) Devil K
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 2)

The first afternoon/evening meeting of the year at Seoul takes place on Saturday with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Perhaps this night racing season, we shall update our stock photos of night racing.

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

Maiden juveniles over the short course in the opener. Two of the nine have raced before and while experience is usually worth plenty in these types of races, we’ll take a chance on a newcomer. (6) MENI POCKET is the second out of eight-time winner Meni Money to make the track. She went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them earlier this month, responding very nicely when asked and running through the line well. She is a bit on the small side but can win first up. (9) NUT PLAY ran well enough for 4th on debut in a fair time on May 28th, on pace throughout. He should have come on for that run and get closer today. (4) WONPYEONG KILLAR debuted in the same race, finishing in 5th place and with natural improvement, he too can be backed. Returning to the debut-makers, (2) GWANGCHIGI won his trial in good fashion and can lead from a good draw, while (1) GOOD CABO is bound to be backed with Moon Se-young on.

Selections(6) Meni Pocket (9) Nut Play (4) Wonpyeong Killar (2) Gwangchigi
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

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

Maidens here. (4) NAOL ACE will be hot favourite coming in off back-to-back 4th place finishes, most recently over this distance in a time significantly quicker than any of his rivals here have achieved. He comes in fresh following a fourteen-week layoff and he should win. (3) JEONGMUN PAPAGO was an improved 3rd on his latest start on May 29th when settling midfield and running on. He comes into a better gate today and looks a solid placing chance again. (7) WONDERFUL HAWAII has mixed her form across eleven previous outings but does have a 2nd and a 3rd to her name at this distance. A top-three finish will see her up in class and she probably should achieve it. (1) COMPLETE JOY and (8) P N S LIN are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(4) Naol Ace (3) Jeongmun Papago (7) Wonderful Hawaii (1) Complete Joy
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

A small field of maidens and (6) TANGJA is the clear pick following his much-improved 2nd at start number two over this distance back in March. He broke a bit slow that day from a wide gate but was quickly up with the speed and led until the closing stages. He ultimately went down by a nose to Mighty Good who has since won again at class 5 level and while this is his first start since, he should win. (1) VICTORY SAM ran 2nd over 1000M all the way back in June of last year. She didn’t reappear until the end of this May when she led before tiring. She should strip fitter for that run and can go close today. (7) GEUMSEONG CROWN ran 4th on his return from six-months out at the end of May. He too should have come on for that run and looks a placing chance here. (5) TRES VITE and (4) SKY PANGPANG others with minor money hopes.

Selections(6) Tangja (1) Victory Sam (7) Geumseong Crown (5) Tres Vite
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

(4) ORAE HAMKKEHAJA was a winner on debut over 1200M, making all, before returning and running 5th on his first try at this class over 1400M on June 4th. He comes up in the weights here and also in distance to two-turns, but he should be able to overcome both and can win. (9) JEONGMUN POKJU comes in having run 3rd on his latest try at this distance on May 22nd when on pace throughout. He too comes up in the weights but Moon Se-young remains aboard and he will be a big danger here. (1) JIGEUMYEOGIE came from well off the pace to run a smart 3rd at class and distance on June 5th. From the inside gate he can be dropped in behind the speed here and then run on strong once more. (6) FLYING ATHENA and (3) THAT’S MY BOY others who can enter the placing calculations.

Selections(4) Orae Hamkkehaja (9) Jeongmun Pokju (1) Jigeimyeogie (6) Flying Athena
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) KING HONOR has hinted at ability across three starts so far and finished off well for 4th over 1300M at his latest outing on June 5th. He comes up slightly in trip here, should be on the lead, and can win. (7) EPIPHANY mixes his form but goes well on his day and this small field can suit. He will settle behind the leaders and can run on strong. (6) BANG BANG TTEUNE has tended to get a little bit far back in her races but she has run a decent time at this trip. She is another who may appreciate the smaller field and can experience less traffic problems today. (2) RUNNER MONSTER comes in off his best finish to date, when 3rd over 1300M on June 5th. The same apprentice keeps the weight light and he can go close. (3) BEST BIG BANG another in the hunt.

Selections(4) King Honor (7) Epiphany (6) Bang Bang Tteune (2) Runner Monster
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7
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Summer Race Schedule To Begin July 1st – 9pm Finishes Friday & Saturday

Racing will switch to its summer schedule from this coming weekend, Friday July 1st, running until the the weekend that ends on Sunday August 28th. During July and August, racing on Fridays and Saturdays will have a mid-afternoon start with the final race at 9pm. The Sunday schedule will remain unaffected.

Evening racing is to return after a two year hiatus

Typical schedules will be as follows:

FRIDAY

Busan Racecourse: 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00

Jeju Racecourse: 8 races from 14:10 to 20:00

SATURDAY

Seoul Racecourse: 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00

Jeju Racecourse: 6 races from 14:00 to 17:45

SUNDAY

Seoul Racecourse: 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00

Busan Racecourse: 7 races from 11:35 to 17:05

There will be free entry to all racecourses on the weekend of Friday July 1st to Sunday July 3rd.

Mayor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (June 26)

The Busan Mayor’s Cup has attracted a super field and is the feature race of a big Sunday program in Korea. See here for a full preview of the big race. There are 6 races at Busan from 11:35 to 16:20 as well as 11 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Ten three-year-old maiden fillies go around in the opener and there are two standouts. (2) GEUMA CHIC was a much-improved runner-up at start number two on June 5th when unlike on debut, she was prominent throughout. She draws nicely again to sit close to the speed and with a bit more natural improvement, she can win. (8) SONGAM ARCHGIRL has improved across three outings to date. Along with Geuma Chic, she is the only one in the field to have previously raced at this distance and she registered a faster time when running 2nd from a wide gate on April 23rd. She comes in fresh after nine weeks off and may start as favourite. (10) GREEN DRAGON has put in two creditable runs in 2nd and 4th so far, both times on pace. The draw isn’t ideal, but she looks a good place chance again. (1) MAGIC MOCCASIN should be on the early speed from the inside gate and can be in this a long way while (9) FLY JENNY has the potential to improve from her debut.

Selections(2) Geuma Chic (8) Songam Archgirl (10) Green Dragon (1) Magic Moccasin
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

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

Three-year-old maidens although this one is open to the boys as well. It’s hard to look past (5) WORLD CHARM. Having trialled up well, he was 2nd on debut at this distance on May 28th when handy to the lead throughout. The time wasn’t fast, but he wasn’t beaten too far and with some natural improvement here, he should win. (12) DREAM ROSE was sent off as favourite for her debut on back on March 20th, having shown good speed in a trial. He ran 5th having been close to the pace and having had a further three months off since and has every chance of improvement. (7) NB JEONSA comes in off a 3rd and a 4th at this distance in his latest two, having been on pace both times. He’ll be getting forward again and should be going close. (2) ROMA BLADE and (4) SHOOTING REVERSE others with placing chances.

Selections(5) World Charm (12) Dream Rose (7) NB Jeonsa (2) Roma Blade
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 12

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

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings on the south coast. (2) WORLD FOUR A will be a hot favourite to break through at what will be start number three having run 2nd and 3rd in two prior outings. He’s been on the pace both times and from a great draw should lead again and prove hard to catch. (6) TOMYRIS won a trial before drawing the widest gate on debut and getting well back before running on for 6th. She should have come on for that run and from a much better draw today she can get much closer. (9) TWO OF US has been consistent across three starts so far and has registered the fastest time for the distance of any of these when 3rd back in April. She too likes to get forward and while she is drawn a little wide, she should be competitive again. First-time starter (11) TAP DANCER and (12) GEOMBOSEONG are others in the placing frame at least.

Selections(2) World Four A (6) Tomyris (9) Two Of Us (11) Tap Dancer
Next Best12, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

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

(7) EUNHYE RECORD looks the one to beat here. He comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes over this distance and 1400M, last time out beating a couple of today’s rivals. He can sit behind the speed here and use his strong finish to make the breakthrough. (8) ECHO ZONE finished 6th behind Eunhye Record when they met at 1400M on May 28th. He also has a 3rd to his name over 1200M and may appreciate the slight drop in trip and the less unfavourable draw. (11) JAKDUKONG and (9) P N S YARNS came home 3rd and 4th with not much between them when they raced each other at 1200M on May 29th. Both came from off the pace, and both shouldn’t be concerned by the relatively wide gates. (10) ARCH RIVER has the fastest time of these at the distance and is another with potential to improve.

Selections(7) Eunhye Record (8) Echo Zone (11) Jakdukong (9) P N S Yarns
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 12

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

(4) MILK DAY enters in the best form here having finished 4th and 2nd in his latest two, most recently at 1400M on May 29th when from a wide gate, he sat behind the speed and ran on for a close runner-up finish, his best in ten starts so far. In doing so, he registered the fastest time amongst those who have tackled this distance before and from a nice gate, can drop in behind the leaders again and run on. (8) VIEW AMAZING comes in off a much-improved 2nd place at this distance on May 27th, when on pace throughout. He should be on the speed here and can be in this a long way. (6) STAR CATCH has shown good consistency across her most recent outings. Last time out on May 29th at 1300M, she settled back in the pack and ran through the line well for 3rd. She steps up to 1400M for the first time and it may suit. (10) CITY BLADE and (7) AGAIN HELEN are others in at least the placing calculations.

Selections(4) Milk Day (8) View Amazing (6) Star Catch (10) City Blade
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11
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