Seoul

Christmas Day Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (December 25)

Every restaurant booked out in Seoul for Christmas? Plenty of space at the racecourse! Both thoroughbred tracks are in action as usual on Christmas Day with 11 races at Seoul and 6 in Busan. With racing taking a break next weekend, it’s the final meetings of 2022. Here are the previews:

Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy winner Raon Giant is in action in the concluding race of the year at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens with ten of them fillies and all twelve racing for the very first time. Based on trials (11) CHILSAN DAEGYO will be a warm favourite. She made all in her heat, stopping the clock in a fast time and while she draws a touch wider than ideal, any improvement on that, will make her hard to beat. Another trial winner is (7) MUNHAK CENTRAL and she will be second favourite. She too led from gate to wire and while her time wasn’t as fast as that of Chilsan Daegyo (in a different heat on the same day), if she brings that form to the races, she can go well first up. (10) BARAMUI HYANGGI registered a time in her trial that while not on the fast side, suggested some potential and she will probably be the next in the market. (4) CHOEGANG NICE and (3) GREEN SHIELD others who can stamp their authority on debut.

Selections(11) Chilsan Daegyo (7) Munhak Central (10) Baramui Hyanggi (4) Choegang Nice
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Juvenile fillies but a rare race at class 4 level which gives the imports (imported horses must begin at class 4) a rare chance to compete. Four of these raced one another in a very similar event on October 30th and the winner that day was the appropriately named (3) RACE WINNER, who settled handy early and proved too strong. The weight conditions are the same, the gate if anything is better, and she can win again. (4) MIGHTY Q was 2nd in that October 30th race sitting on the heels of Race Winner until the closing stages. She has four lengths to overturn on that day’s winner but can get closer here.  (7) MEDICI WOLF has beaten a few of these across two starts so far and can accordingly be backed to do similar. Most significantly her latest outing saw her run 3rd in the Listed Gwacheon Mayor’s Trophy and a similar run will put her firmly in the mix. (2) BS POWER and (9) LOTUSMIREU others who can go close in a competitive race.

Selections(3) Race Winner (4) Mighty Q (7) Medici Wolf (2) BS Power
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with two standouts. (4) BADEN BADEN was an on-pace 2nd on debut over 1000M on November 26th. She was well-beaten by the standout winner Phoenix Serve but it was an encouraging first outing nonetheless and from a good gate and under a light weight, she can be on pace here and has every chance. Her rival for favourite status is (9) BULGOM MADRE. After winning a trial in October, she debuted on December 12th and having sat in midfield in the early stages of the 1000M test, she ran on strong to just go down by a neck, traveling significantly quicker than the winner. The additional furlong should suit, and she has every chance.  There are four first time starters. Among them (7) NAOL JEONGSANG trialled pleasingly enough, running 2nd in a fair – if unspectacular – time. This is a nice race to debut in and he has a chance. Another debut-maker, (6) SMARTY FIGHTER, along with the second-up (2) LUCKY BOUNCE are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(4) Baden Baden (9) Bulgom Madre (7) Naol Jeongsang (6) Smarty Fighter
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 12

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

Juvenile maidens with only two of the twelve having previous racing experience. They are going to be the two leading contenders in the market though as they both raced well. (4) BLUE MORE will be hot favourite. He was an on-pace 2nd on debut over this distance on November 27th, well beaten by a good winner but well clear of the rest. He draws well and with some natural improvement may take some beating. (12) BACKTOTHELEGEND also debuted over this distance in a different race on November 27th. He settled midfield and ran on for 3rd in a good time and is set to be the main danger here. As for the first-timer starters, a few did enough in trials to suggest they can compete for places. (9) KING OF THE YEAR was on pace in his heat and stopped the clock in a good time while (3) EVERY KING IJI and (7) SMILE KING also did enough to suggest they should be kept safe.

Selections(4) Blue More (12) Backtothelegend (9) King Of The Year (3) Every King Iji
Next Best 
Fast Start 

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile fillies and on the final day of a season which have seen the Raon Organisation dominate, the appropriately named (3) RAON EMPIRE will be hotly favoured to win. She was favourite on debut over 1000M on November 13th but while she overcame gate ten to get to an eventual handy position, she could only manage 3rd. She should have come on for that run and from a much better gate, will be hard to beat. Second favourite will be (9) HERO QUEEN She has gone right back on both starts so far but rallied very well at her latest to run 3rd over this distance eon November 26th. The wide draw won’t be a problem and she will be challenging late. (12) ANYANG POKKYEOKGI was an improved 3rd in a quick time at start number two over 1000M on November 12th and may appreciate the step up in trip here. (10) AMAN BAROWS and (11) TAURUS QUEEN join the ranks of those drawn wide to be in the hunt.

Selections(3) Raon Empire (9) Hero Queen (12) Anyang Pokkyeogi (10) Aman Barows
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

Juvenile fillies with five of the eleven racing for the first time. Both (1) GANGSEO GIANT and (2) ALPHA THOR come out of the Gyeongnam Do Min Ilbo Trophy where Alpha Thor was the best of them in 5th to Gangseo Giant’s 8th. Coming back in trip, they look set to battle out the honours here with Gangseo Giant sightly favoured to overturn the form. (3) CARPE BABEL debuted in the Do Min Ilbo Trophy, which was always going to be a tough ask first-up and from a wide gate she wasn’t a factor. She had previously won a trial in good order and it’s fair to give her a fresh start today. Among the first-time starters, (7) JOY JUNMA and (10) MACH BULLET perhaps have the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(1) Gangseo Giant (2) Alpha Thor (3) Carpe Babel (7) Joy Junma
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

More maidens and it’s hard to look past (10) POWERFUL HWASEONG. That’s based on two of his latest three outings when 3rd and 2nd over this distance in times that were both faster than anything else here has achieved. He has a decent finish on him and doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw is of little concern, and at start number five, he looks ready to win. The main danger is (6) DONGBANG SAGI. She enters off an improved 2nd place over 1300M on November 27th when on pace throughout and beaten only by a good favourite. She’ll be on the speed again here and can be in this a long way. (4) CAMINO has only raced once, finishing midfield over 1300M on November 20th. He should strip fitter for that experience and can go closer today. (12) ULTRA GALAXY and (2) WINNER DRAGON are among others in the frame.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 24)

Christmas Eve racing is in Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Hangang Ace is back Seoul on Christmas Eve (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with nine of the twelve having prior racing experience. (2) YUKWAEHAN SARANG won a trial before running 2nd on debut over 1000M and then 4th when tried at this distance on November 27th, settling handy and running on well. She is the only one in the field to have tackled the 1200M before and it can stand her in good stead here. Probable favourite is (1) JEOMSUNI GO. Underwhelming in trials, she was sent off at big odds-on debut over 1000M on November 27th but defied that to run a very close 3rd in a very fast time having been slowly away and settling back. The additional furlong should suit, and she has a big chance here. (3) INDIANUI BYEOL has run well for 2nd and 3rd in two prior outings, both over the 1000M. Last time out he drew gate ten and settled midfield but from a better draw he can be expected to be on the speed here and in this a long way. (12) DAEWANG SOCKS and (6) ILDONG BAKSU offered signs of ability on their respective debuts and can feature here too.

Selections(2) Yukwaehan Sarang (1) Jeomsuni Go (3) Indianui Byeol (12) Daewang Socks
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

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

More juvenile maidens and (4) DAEBAK SOCKS looks to be the one to beat. He ran 4th on debut and then 3rd on his second start on November 27th when leading almost the entire way around over 1000M, stopping the clock in a quick time and only narrowly beaten. The extended trip should pose no problems and from another good draw, he can be on pace again and this time go all the way. (5) SUPER FINISH is the logical second pick. After an ordinary debut, he has run 2nd and 3rd over five-furlongs, showing on pace both times. He too draws well to get forward and he can be a danger. Neither (12) LEMON BLADE nor (10) ARGO MUJEOK are done any favours by the draw, but it may be less of a hindrance for Lemon Blade. Both enter off encouraging last start showings. (2) GHOST CHARM another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Daebak Socks (5) Super Finish (12) Lemon Blade (10) Argo Mujeok
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 10

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

It took him a few goes to figure things out but (8) UCHEONGRYUNG has been knocking on the door in his latest three with two 4th places and a 2nd, all in good times at 1200M and 1300M. He settles handy or midfield and runs on, although with not much early speed here, he may well be on pace, and he won’t need to improve very much to win. (5) ARCH MEMORY has five top-five finishes from seven appearances although is yet to feature in the first-two. She comes in off a solid 3rd place over this distance on November 19th when she settled midfield and ran on strong and under the same weight and from a good gate, she can go close again. (12) MIR POINT has run solid times over 1000M and comes in off a last start runner-up finish on November 12th. It’s his first time at further than the minimum distance today and he can be competitive although may need a touch of luck from the start from the wide gate. (2) SEMYEONG CAPTAIN and (9) CHIMING BOY others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(8) Ucheongryung (5) Arch Memory (12) Mir Point (2) Semyeong Captain
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 12

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

(4) GOLDEN HONOR has only finished outside of the top-four on one occasion and while a win remains elusive, he has put in some solid performances at this class and last time out, at this distance. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races, but he runs on well and so long s he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he is the one to beat here. (3) ECHO ZONE has only won once but has been a model of consistency with eight top-five finishes. He comes in off a good 2nd place over 1400M at this class and his win came over this distance. This isn’t impossible for him. (10) SINUI BANJEON has three runner-up finishes from five starts including her latest at this class and distance on November 27th. She is nicely weighted here, the draw shouldn’t be problematic, and she rates as a chance. (5) GEOLJAK DREAM and the up in class (8) MAUIWAY are others in the frame.

Selections(4) Golden Honor (3) Echo Zone (10) Sinui Banjeon (5) Geoljak Dream
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

(1) SOMETHING LOST was a winner on debut over 1000M in a fast time (beating Jeomsuni Go from race 1). He comes up in class and up in distance here but neither of those should be an issue and he will be a warm favourite to maintain his 100% record. Except on debut, (3) GLOBAL POWER hasn’t finished outside the top four. He enters having beaten a couple of these on his way to 3rd place when overcoming a wide gat at this class and distance on November 27th. The draw is more favourable today and he can go close. (10) BEST TORCH showed promise earlier this year but hasn’t raced since finishing in midfield in the Luna Stakes, the first leg of the Triple Tiara, back in April. She has two runner-up finishes at this class and distance though and looked well when coming through a November trial in a decent time. She can go well first-up. (8) HUIMANG CHAMP and the up in class (12) SPRING WATER are among others who can enter the calculations.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (December 18)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:15 to 16:40). The program at both tracks includes a number of trophy races for big prize money as part of the Retired Racehorse Benefit day. These are essentially just normal races at between class 5 and class 3 level (as noted below in the comments). Here are the previews:

Race 5 at Busan marks Winner’s Man’s Korea Cup and Grand Prix victories (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener and there are plenty of promising ones among them. Stepping up to 1200M for the first time, (9) MAESTRA gets the nod. She was 3rd in both her previous starts, both at 1300M, first by leading and then by settling back and running on. Moon Se-young continues aboard and today can be her day. (11) NAOL HAENGBOK ran 2nd in a fast time on a wet track over 1000M on debut on November 13th settling handy and running on. She draws a touch wide for comfort here, but the trip can suit, and she can challenge. (1) TOUCH CHARM is the big winner from the draw. She was a strong 3rd on debut over 1000M on November 26th and is another who can appreciate the additional furlong. Plenty of others in the hunt including (7) DASI TAEEONADO and the first-time starter and trial winner (4) WONDERFUL SLEW.

Selections(9) Maestra (11) Naol Haengbok (1) Touch Charm (7) Dasi Taeeonado
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 11, 9

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

(3) CHOEGANG MIRAE debuted without distinction back in April and then didn’t return until the end of October, only beating two home over 1300M. He had won a trial just the week before in a quick time demonstrating that he has some speed and was an improved 5th when tried at this distance on December 3rd. He draws much better here and third-up this could be his day. (4) TWO ACE has a runner-up finish to his name over this distance two starts back when coming from off the pace and followed up with a 4th at his most recent outing. An apprentice takes 3kg off his back and he should be going close. (8) MIRACLE K beat a couple of these on her way to 4th at this distance on November 20th having led for much of the way around and that’s enough to bring her into contention here. (12) DAESEUNG GAON and (9) GOLD KAISER among others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Choegang Mirae (4) Two Ace (8) Miracle K (12) Daeseung Gaon
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

After three consecutive runner-up finishes, it’s about time (11) PURGE DAY won. He has finished 2nd from the front, as he did two starts back at class level, and he has finished 2nd settling back after a slow start and running on, as he did on his first try at this class on October 29th. That latter performance was fast and suggests the wide draw won’t be an issue as he steps up to this distance for the first time. (7) MENI ACE comes up in class and in distance following a maiden win over 1200M on November 12th when for the first time he was on or close to the pace throughout. He carries a light weight, can sit handy here and can run on to challenge again. (10) TOHO SKY comes in having finished a respectable midfield in Listed Nonghyup Chairman’s Cup for juveniles a month ago. He had previously run out a winner in a good time at 1200M and should go close in this company. (2) BICHUICA and (9) WONDERFUL INDY are among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(11) Purge Day (7) Meni Ace (10) Toho Sky (2) Bichuica
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 6, 10, 12

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

Juvenile maiden fillies open proceedings on the south coast with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (2) SPECIAL ROAD is the favourite, having run 2nd on debut on November 25th over 1000M, having previously run a similarly quick time in a trial. She draws well, carries a very light weight and the additional furlong can suit. The biggest threat looks to be one of the first-time starters. (1) ACE HORANGI won her trial in double quick time, leading all the way. She draws the same inside gate for her first race start and won’t need to improve much on the trial to go very close. (5) MY MANTRA ran on pleasingly enough for 5th place in a good time on debut at 1000M on November 11th and with some natural improvement can go closer today. Debut-makers (11) NEXT MARINE and (6) AMAZING MOVE are others capable of putting in bold showings first-up.

Selections(2) Special Road (1) Ace Horangi (5) My Mantra (11) Next Marine
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1600M) Allowance / KRW 150 Million

(9) MACH STAR is favoured here. A maiden winner at start number two over 1200M at class 6 level on October 23rd, she than ran a good 2nd over that same distance on her first try at this level on November 19th. She has shown herself able to come from off the pace so the big step up in trip may be to her advantage and she is the one to beat. Plenty of others come in with recent form reading well. Chief among those is (8) LUCKY POWER, who was an also-ran in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy in October but ran on well for 2nd over 1300M at this class on November 6th. He is another who can appreciate the additional trip and can be considered. (1) NUT PLAY started his career well but his latest two have seen him first get a long way back from a wide gate and then have a hard time in the Listed Nonghyup Chairman’s Trophy. From the inside draw and against more amenable company, he will have fewer excuses here. (4) HWARANG TODAY and (7) ROSE GOLD are among others to consider.

Selections(9) Mach Star (8) Lucky Power (1) Nut Play (4) Hwarang Today
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

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

An extremely ordinary maiden which sees (8) SPECIAL JOHN, who has raced thirteen times and is yet to finish in the top-two, as the favourite. He has been getting better of late though, with two 3rd places and a 4th from his latest three and in the process set a time for this distance almost a full second faster than anything else here that has tackled the 1200M has managed. He won’t get a better chance than today to make the breakthrough. (2) MORNING MUSE comes back in trip and shapes as the logical danger having been on pace and then faded in her latest outings at further. She is up in the weights but that’s balanced by a good gate. The form, such that is, falls off after that with (7) WIDAEHAN SEONTAEK and (6) SPEED MAST the only others to have respectable showings among their most recent appearances which is enough to bring them into play here. (10) VELOCIRAPTOR did at least run on at start two over 1000M last time so may go better at this trip but is hardly convincing.

Selections(8) Special John (2) Morning Muse (7) Widaehan Seontaek (6) Speed Mast
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1700M) Allowance (Rating 1-35) / KRW 150 Million

Competitive race here. (12) WONDERFUL JOY overcame the widest gate to sit handy and then run on to win at class 5 level (which is essentially what this is), with three of today’s rivals behind him over this distance on November 12th. The set weight scale means he only comes up 1kg and that, combined with the widest gate again, might not be enough to prevent him winning again. (2) SPO BLADE is turning into a useful type. He got his maiden win at class 6 level two starts back over 1200M before running 2nd at 1300M on his first try at class 5 on November 19th. He has proven tactically versatile at the shorter distances and can go well on his debut over two turns. (5) FEDERAL KING and (7) K N TIZWON came home 2nd and 4th respectively behind Wonderful Joy in that November 12th race and both can be looking to go close again. (4) GAMGOK SUNSHINE another who can enter the calculations.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 17)

It’s turned very cold in Korea the past couple of days and temperatures in the capital are forecast to remain below zero for the foreseeable future. Nevertheless, the sun will probably be shining and there are 10 races in Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens here and every single one of the twelve is racing for the first time so we must head for the trial videos. Most of these took more than one attempt at qualifying and that applies to the probable favourite (5) BLACK MOTION, who wasn’t ready on his first attempt in July. He has since been gelded and looked much more assured when winning a heat on November 25th sitting handy and then running on, crossing the line in a decent time ten-lengths to the good. If he can bring that form to the races, he can win. Going on times, (4) AGAPANTHUS is the second pick. His heat was first due to the presence of Grand Prix Stakes 4th placed Saryeoni First and Korean Oaks 3rd Chamjoeun Chingu but he stuck with both and can go well here. (8) DONGHAENG FIRST and (1) KARIZMA came through the same trial, and both hinted at ability while (9) VILLARRICA is another who offered some evidence of potential when 2nd on his heat two weeks ago in a fair time.

Selections(5) Black Motion (4) Agapanthus (8) Donghaeng First (1) Karizma
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

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

More juvenile maidens although this time only one of twelve is appearing for the first time with the rest all having raced once apiece. The three lowest drawn look set to dispute it. Of them (1) ACHIM DONGJA is the only one who debuted at this distance, starting slowly on November 5th but running on strong for a good 3rd place in a good time. He should have derived benefit for the experience and with a better start, is the one to beat. (2) STRENGTH showed speed when 4th on debut in a quick time over 1000M on November 27th. He finished off well and the additional furlong shouldn’t prove problematic from a good gate. Similarly, (3) NAOL GONI ran on for 4th on debut over 1000M a month ago and looks to be the other legitimate winning chance. Among the rest, (8) SAVANA CHARLIE was also 4th on debut, albeit in a slower time. He did though finish off very well and the step up in trip can benefit. Debut maker (12) THUNDER PRINCE went through two trials, improving in the latter, and may go well first-up at probable big odds.

Selections(1) Achim Dongja (2) Strength (3) Naol Goni (8) Savana Charlie
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

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

More juvenile maidens, all with racing experience. (1) G MOTION is the warm favourite, having finished no worse than 4th in three starts so far, with two of them coming over this distance in good times. He draws very nicely here, and he won’t need to improve much to win this. (5) CHROMITE came home 5th to G Motion’s 4th when they raced each other on November 19th. He has three lengths to find on the favourite but that was his first try at this distance and he may improve for the experience. (8) DALGEUM comes up in trip for the first time after back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1000M. Both times she was doing her best work late on and the additional furlong can suit here under a very light weight. (6) UNICORN KINGDOM is similarly up in class following an improved 2nd over 1000M at start number three and along with (2) MISS WIN STAR is another in the frame.

Selections(1) G Motion (5) Chromite (8) Dalgeum (6) Unicorn Kingdom
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

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

Regular maiden open to all ages. (12) EUREKA has never finished any better than 4th but that is something he has achieved on no fewer than five of his nine starts so far. He draws wide here but given his running style, that may not be much of a problem. His times at this distance have not exactly been electrifying, but that’s true for everything else here too and he has as good a chance as any. (10) BEST BIG BANG has the fastest – though that’s relative – time of those who have attempted the distance before. That was achieved when beating Eureka as the pair ran 3rd and 4th on October 16th. He remains nicely weighted under an apprentice and can go close. (6) DEVIL K has a couple of 3rd place finishes to his name and that’s enough to put him firmly in contention in this company. In the absence of any early speed, he may lead and can be in this a long way. (4) CHOEGO POINT and (9) MADISON MOUNTAIN are others who could be in the mix.

Selections(12) Eureka (10) Best Big Bang (6) Devil K (4) Choego Point
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start2, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

It’s hard to look too far past (10) HIGH GRAND here. After back-to-back 4th places over 1000M, he stepped up to 1200M on November 5th and very nearly made all, ultimately coming home 2nd in a quick time. He has the challenge of the wide gate here so may need a touch of luck at the stuck but if he can get a forward position, he will take some beating. (2) SERYUNG comes in off 4th places in his latest two outings, both at 1200M. He draws nicely here to sit on pace or handy and the extra half furlong can suit. (1) MORNING PRINCE enters having run good times in his latest two at 1200M for 3rd and 5th. He has tended to get a bit far back in his races so far but runs on well and is another for who the additional trip can suit. (6) BEST PLAN and (12) HOUYHNHNM others with minor money claims.

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Grand Prix Stakes Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (December 11)

It’s Grand Prix Stakes Sunday with the traditional season finale bringing together sixteen of the country’s best horses at Seoul for the 2300M Group 1 test. See here for a full runner-by-runner guide. The Grand Prix is race 8 on the 11-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There is also a 6-race card at Busan from 12:15 to 16:45. The Grand Prix is at 16:15. Here are all the previews:

Haengbok Wangja won last year’s Grand Prix. He returns to try to defend his title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener with three of the small field of eight racing for the first time.  (8) RAON CITY GIRL has race twice and was an improved 3rd in the second of them over this distance on November 6th when handy throughout and finishing in a fast time. The small field means she should be able to get on pace again and she is the one to beat. The biggest danger looks to be one of the first timers. (1) EINSPANNER was an on-pace 2nd in her trial in a fair time and from a great draw can put in a bold showing first up. (2) BLUE ARCH has raced twice at this distance and just like Raon City Girl, she improved in the second of them, settling handy and running on for 4th. With some more improvement she can be in the mix here. (3) GEOMIBULU is a debut-maker who must be taken seriously having won her trial in November when settling midfield and running on. (7) GROW can improve on her midfield finish on debut.

Selections(8) Raon City Girl (1) Einspanner (2) Blue Arch (3) Geomibulu
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

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

More juvenile filly maidens this time with four of the eight making their racing debuts. (7) ICE CREAM will be the hot favourite. She led for much of her debut at this distance on October 16th, ultimately finishing back in 4th but with close margins and a quick time. She should have derived benefit from the experience and if she runs to that level again, she should win. (1) NANGJU YEOGEOL has raced twice already, finishing 5th both times and stopping the clock in exactly the same time. A similar run will put her into the places here. Among the first-time starters, (2) BULGOM MADRE looks to be the pick. She came from off the pace to win her trial in a fair time and if she brings that form to the races, she can go close in this company. (4) GREEN SPECTER led for most of her trial, crossing the line 2nd. She draws well to be on pace and can be in this a long way on debut. (3) GOOD SIMON perhaps needs trying at further but can aim for minor money.

Selections(7) Ice Cream (1) Nangju Yeogeol (2) Bulgom Madre (4) Green Specter
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens again, this time open to colts as well as fillies. Four of the eight race for the first time. (8) GEOSEN CHAMP is the favourite. He ran an improved 4th at start number two over this distance on November 5th, beginning slowly and then settling right back before finishing strongly, well beaten by winner Farciarz but posting a more than respectable time. With some natural improvement, he may take some beating. (6) RICH GATE ran pleasingly enough for a midfield finish in a good time on debut on October 30th. He can have benefited for the run and can be in the mix here. (3) HALLSTATT and (4) SEUNGRIUI YEONGHON both put in fair efforts on their respective debuts and can build on them here with the latter likely to be on the early pace. The first-time staters didn’t exactly leap out of the trial highlights reels. (7) CHRYSOL SMILE is the first foal by 2016 Korea Cup winner Chrysolite to make the track.

Selections(8) Geosen Champ (6) Rich Gate (3) Hallstatt (4) Seungriui Yeonghon
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 6

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

Juvenile maidens get things underway on the south coast with two of the ten racing for the first time. (3) HANEUL SEUNGNI races for the third time, having run 3rd and 2nd in two previous outings, both at 1000M and both in good times. He draws nicely to lead here and can go all the way. (6) STAR FURY went through two October trials, improving significantly in the second of them (which as it was a voluntary trial, may not appear in all race cards). In that trial he crossed the line within two-lengths of Touch Star Man and Top Mate, experienced winners (the former a Classic winner) and he can be given a chance here. (1) STORMY DAY beat a couple of these on his way to a very creditable 4th place over this distance on debut on November 13th. He doesn’t have the benefit of an apprentice claim today, but that’s balanced somewhat by a better draw, and he can go close. (7) DALLILLAEYO was 5th in that race on November 13th when settling right back and running on. That was an improvement from his debut, and he can continue to make progress here. (4) REMEMBER ME another who can improve.

Selections(3) Haneul Seungni (6) Star Fury (1) Stormy Day (7) Dallillaeyo
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile filly maidens. (1) HANGANG JILJU looks ready to win. She improved at start number three when an on the pace 4th over 1000M and coming up in trip for the first time and from a good draw, may take some beating. (7) BAEDARI GONGJU has made steady progress across three outings so far, with her 4th place on what was her first try at this distance on November 13th, her best so far. She has tended to get a bit far back in her races but can run on and challenge here. (8) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL similarly demonstrated improvement at start number two. She has drawn wide every time so far, but in today’s smaller field, it may not be much of a hindrance. (4) CATS WOMAN and (6) RED TAEPUNG are others with claims on the minors

Selections(1) Hangang Jilju (7) Baedari Gongju (8) Gangcheol Yeogeol (4) Cats Woman
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

Another maiden where it is hard to look past the favourite. (4) PAN STAR has steadily improved across three starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on November 18th when she came close to making all. The additional half furlong shouldn’t be an issue and she can go one better today. (6) HEARTBREAKER also improved at start number two on November 11th when sitting midfield and getting back well for 3rd over 1200M. He stretches out a little further in trip today and with some natural improvement, he can go close. (5) ADELE HORANGI has four top-five finishes from his five starts to date. His best was a second place in October over this distance when handy to the speed and he can be a danger here. (8) JEONGMUN CHITA and (7) BOOMY STAR the others in the hunt.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 10)

It’s Grand Prix Stakes Eve! Before the big race at Seoul on Sunday, the capital track hosts a Saturday meeting with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Haengbok Wangja won last year’s Grand Prix. He returns to try to defend his title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the eight racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on one of the debut makers in the shape of (6) J MOTION. He made all to win his trial by a big margin and in a quick time in mid-November. If he can bring that form to the races, he can win first-up. The main danger is one of the ones with prior experience. (8) CLOUD NINE has raced twice, not doing much on debut but then improving to 3rd when stepped up to this trip on October 23rd. He sat right back early before running on and so long as he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he can be competitive here. (2) SINUI HAMSEONG has been through a load of trials. The most recent (which was voluntary so may not appear on all race cards) on November 11th saw his overcome a wide draw to sit off pace and hen run on very nicely to cross the line 1st in a good time. The distance should suit for his debut here. (4) CLUB D is another trial winner and along with (7) NONSTOP THUNDER is also with claims to go well.

Selections(6) J Motion (8) Cloud Nine (2) Sinui Hamseong (4) Club D
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

Maidens and it’s hard to look far past (11) GEUMBITMA. He has three top-four finishes from his four prior starts, alongside a solid 6th place in the listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy. He comes in off a solid 3rd place last time out on November 5th when sitting handy throughout and while he has the challenge of the wide gate, he should have too much. (5) RAON AMERICAN ran 5th in that November 5th race, settling midfield and finishing off well. He also has a 2nd place to his name at the distance and getting a much better draw than the favourite, can be a danger under You Hyun-myung, who is in town to ride in Sunday’s Grand Prix Stakes. (4) HUMMING BIRD enters off a last start runner-up finish over the distance and while she was well beaten by a good winner, she comes into a much better gate today and can go close again. (3) SUPREME STAR and (1) RAON THE CHARLIE among others with credible placing chances.

Selections(11) Geumbitma (5) Raon American (4) Humming Bird (3) Supreme Star
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) here and it looks to be between two last start winners. (11) WONDERFUL WEEK was a super winner at start number two over 1000M on October 30th, settling handy and running on to stop the clock in a fast time. Neither he extended trip, or the class rise should be a problem and while the draw isn’t ideal, she looks to have plenty of potential. (6) MAPARAM was a fine winner over 1300M at this class on November 5th, making all in a quick time. The engagement of an apprentice jockey keeps the weight down and from a good gate, she should be in this a long way again. (8) CONCORD QUEEN has finished in 6th and 7th in her latest two, but the margins haven’t been big, and she can be a factor here. (4) GEUMA ALLURE and (9) JAKDUKONG are among a lengthy list of other placing contenders.

Selections(11) Wonderful Week (6) Maparam (8) Concord Queen (4) Geuma Allure
Next Best9, 12
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 11

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

A very competitive affair in prospect here. We’ll side with (2) EUNPA CHAMPION, an all the way winner on debut in a fast time over 1000M on November 6th having previously won a trial. He is up in class and up a furlong and a half in distance, but he can be equal to both. (5) NAOL CHEONJI was a winner on debut over 1000M in October and then followed up with a 3rd place over 1300M on her first try at this class on November 5th. She should have benefited from that latter experience, she should be on pace here, and she has every chance. (3) YONGBI SEOUL is another who comes up in class having won on debut, in his case on October 29th when settling handy to the lead and running on over 1000M. He too can measure up in this company. It took (9) SECRET KING a few more goes to get his maiden win but he did it in fine style over 1200M on November 19th and can be competitive. (8) GEOMEUN JILJU another in the hunt.

Selections(2) Eunpa Champion (5) Naol Cheonji (3) Yongbi Seoul (9) Secret King
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

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

(5) K N POST remains a maiden but it’s about time that changed. She has been consistent across her eight starts to date with her only disappointing recent effort coming when drawn very wide at this trip. She comes in off a strong runner-up finish over 1400M on October 23rd when she settled back and ran on, and today can be her day. (2) WONDERFUL HWASEONG is another maiden. He also comes in off a spin around 1400M when 5th and while he comes up 2.5kg on that effort, he draws a nice gate and can be competitive here. (9) JILJUE BADA beat a coupe of these on his way to 4th place at class and distance on November 5th. He comes in under the same weight and given his running style, the wide gate shouldn’t be a problem. (7) GRAND STAR and (3) DOUBLE TAKE among others in the minor money hunt.

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Breeders’ Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (December 4)

The title of Champion Juvenile will be decided on Sunday as a full field of sixteen two-year-olds go to post for the Breeders Cup (1200M KOR-G2) at Busan. The big race is race 6 on a 6-race card at Busan from 12:15 to 16:40. See here for a full preview of the big race. There is also an 11-race meeting at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Morfhis goes in the feature although the grand galloper faces a weighty task in a competitive class 1 finale. Here are the previews:

SBS Sprint winner Morfhis is in action at Seoul (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens open proceedings with five of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (8) SAENAE KHAN, who ran an on-pace 2nd on debut over this distance on October 15th stopping the clock in a fast time. He should have come on for that run and can go one better here. Of the debut-makers, (1) CANDY GLOW looks to be the pick. She ran 3rd in her trial in a fair time all the way back in August. She draws very well here and Moon Se-young – who is in a bit of rut by his standards – being aboard is sure to guarantee her plenty of attention. (4) GEUMSEONG SIDAE has finished 4th in both his starts so far, both at 1000M and both in good times. A repeat will see him in the finish again today. (7) FINAL CHUKJE and (11) RAON AIR FORCE are other potential improvers.

Selections(8) Saenae Khan (1) Candy Glow (4) Geumseong Sidae (7) Final Chukje
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 11

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

More juvenile maidens, this time with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. (3) NAEGILUI QUEEN ran 4th on debut over this distance in a fast time on October 30th, racing on pace throughout. She draws very nicely to lead again and can go all the way. (9) TIZ INDY was 2nd on debut on October 23rd in the same time as Naegilui Queen achieved. She has a slightly harder ask here from the wide draw, but she looks set to be the main danger. Of the debutants, (5) DREAM PLAY looks the pick. He was on pace in his trial, crossing the line a very close 2nd in a fair time. If he brings that form to the races, he can be competitive. (1) GOLD MIGHTY draws a much better gate than he did when 6th on debut and improvement can be expected. (8) SEONGEUN CROWN another who could make progress.

Selections(3) Naegilui Queen (9) Tiz Indy (5) Dream Play (1) Gold Mighty
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Another set of juvenile maidens but with only one first-timer starter. (7) HAYAN WANGJA was a well beaten runner-up behind Farciarz at start number two on November 5th when breaking well before being shuffled back and then running on strongly. The same apprentice jockey keeps his weight nice and low here and he can go one better, facing as he does nothing like that day’s winner this time. (1) NAOL TANK was a solid 4th on debut at 1000M on November 6th, settling back and finishing off well at odds in excess of 130/1. He comes into a better gate today and can be a danger. The solitary debut-maker has Moon up so will have backers. (4) DANGCHAN DAEBO trialled up fairly in November having been very slowly away but finishing off well and the 1200M may suit first-up. (11) MAGUMA was an improved 5th at start number two and along with (10) JARITHAN JAYU, is one who could potentially improve.

Selections(7) Hayan Wangja (1) Naol Tank (4) Dangchan Daebo (11) Maguma
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 9

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

Three standouts here. (1) NICHOLAS G. ran a good 2nd on debut before being sent off as favourite for his second start over this distance on October 28th. He was on pace that day, ultimately coming home in 3rd place and third-up today and from a good gate, he can be ready to win. (6) YEONGGWANGUI ACE won a trial before beating a couple of these on his way to 2nd place in debut in a fast time over 1000M on October 28th with the highly thought-of Seobu Bigstep the winner. He should have derived benefit from that run and with some natural improvement, can be a danger here. (8) RAON THE HARLEY debuted at this distance on November 5th, stalking the leader and running on for 2nd in a good time. He too should have come on for the run and can be a factor. (10) SKY PUNCH and debut-maker (5) NAMYANG BOLT are others to keep safe.

Selections(1) Nicholas G. (6) Yeonggwangui Ace (8) Raon The Harley (10) Sky Punch
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

It’s hard to look too far past (1) ARGO TAP. He has been consistent across four starts so far, with his best being a 3rd place over 1000M at start number two back in July. He has had two months off since his latest on-pace showing over this distance, he draws well today and Moon Se-young rides. (9) TANGJA has the fastest time for the distance among these. Despite the wide draw, he can get on pace and should be in this a long way. (2) GOLDEN LUCKY has shown improvement across three starts so far and comes in off a 3rd place finish over this distance on November 5th when settling midfield. She is nicely drawn here and shapes as a chance. (7) TWO ACE scored his best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on November 6th. He comes up a full 4kg in the weights without an apprentice claim, but a repeat isn’t impossible. (5) GRACE LEE another in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Argo Tap (9) Tangja (2) Golden Lucky (7) Two Ace
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

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

It’s not often we do this, but we’ll take a chance on the solitary debut-maker here. (6) WONDERFUL CHARMER is out of a good race mare and trialled well at the end of October crossing the line an unhurried 2nd. This is not the toughest of races to debut in and a winning start is possible. (11) SPEED MAST has a best of 2nd from thirteen outings, recorded three starts back over 1300M. The draw does him no favours here as he goes best when on pace, but he shouldn’t be too far away. (2) NALA has also managed a runner-up finish, in her case two outings ago over 1000M. She draws nicely here, doesn’t carry much weight, and has claims. (3) AGAIN HELEN and (9) PLAY THE INDY other possible in a race without much depth.

Selections(6) Wonderful Charmer (11) Speed Mast (2) Nala (3) Again Helen
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 9, 8, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (8) SHINE ON ME ran out a good winner on debut over 1000M on October 16th when handy to the speed throughout. She comes up in class and in distance here, but neither should be insurmountable, and she can maintain her 100% record. (1) INNER PEACE comes in having won at class and distance on October 30th when on pace. She comes up a full 4.5kg in the weights but that’s balanced somewhat by an excellent draw. She has four to-three finishes from six starts and should be there or thereabouts again. (7) DUSON CLASSIC worked hard to get to a forward position from a wide gate before weakening in the closing stages over 1300M on November 6th. The slight drop in trip and the better draw should be more in her favour here. (3) MYEONGJIN CANDY and (11) TROT QUEEN others with minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Shine On Me (1) Inner Peace (7) Duson Classic (3) Myeongjin Candy
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) I LOVE HANSEN was a good winner over 1200M at class 6 level in September before running on pace but weakening for 5th place on his first try at class and distance on October 7th. He has since been back to trial, which he won making all in a fast time, and he can be given another chance to come out on top today. That will mean overturning the form on (11) GREAT GO, who ran 3rd in that October 7th race. She has since run 4th over 1300M and while she draws wide, she carries a very light weight and can be a danger. (5) OMEGA GIRL remains winless after thirty-one attempts but has ten top-four finishes, including a last start 3rd at this class over 1300M. She can settle back and run on here. (6) CHOEGANG DUDEURIM and (10) THUNDER CROWN are among others firmly in the placing hunt.

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

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

There probably won’t be this much snow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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