Seoul

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:00 to 16:40). All betting locations are open as usual but attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and evidence of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

It’s been a long time since Wang Beotkkot won the Nonghyup as a juvenile in 2018 but he has a chance ti win his first class 1 event on Sunday afternoon

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

Three-year-old maidens with four of the fourteen racing for the first time and a couple of them look promising. Experience will be on top though with the most experienced, with three starts to his name, (5) TES GO DAEBO set to be the logical favourite. They have seen him accrue a 2nd and two 4th placed finishes with that 2nd coming at this distance. He can sit on pace or handy from a good draw and should have too much. (9) USEUNG BARAM ran a very encouraging 2nd on his debut over 1000M on January 15th when running on from midfield. The extra furlong can suit, and he should be competitive. Turning to the first timers, (6) PUREUN NARAE was fastest in trials, leading for much of her heat. An apprentice booking means she carries a light weight. (2) BLACK BEOMI won her trial by plenty and while it wasn’t a fast time, she looked to have lots more in the tank. She draws very nicely and can put in a bold showing first-up. (8) GOLDEN THUNDER went back to trial after an indifferent debut and looked quite sharp. Expect improvement.

Selections(5) Tes Go Daebo (9) Useung Baram (6) Pureun Narae (2) Black Beomi
Next Best8, 14
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

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

Maiden fillies and mares. (5) EUNHYE SERVE has shown plenty of promise across three starts to date and stepped up to this distance at her latest outing on January 8th and beat three of today’s rivals on her way to 3rd place when on pace throughout. She draws better this time, should be on pace again and may take some beating. (14) P N S HER ran adequately in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup at just her second start last October. She then put in two ordinary performances before running an improved 4th behind Eunhye Serve a month ago. She draws even wider today but Munro gets on and she can go close. (11) COMPLETE LUCKY was an also-ran in that January race, starting slowly and scarcely getting involved. She had previously shown flashes of speed and with a better start today, can get closer. (6) NEW SMART showed signs of starting to figure things out when running on for 4th at this distance on January 15th and can continue to make progress here. (3) CHEONUNCHONG finished off nicely at 1000M last time and may like the additional furlong.

Selections(5) Eunhye Serve (14) P N S Her (11) Complete Lucky (6) New Smart
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start5, 11, 12, 13

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

Good little maiden this. (7) MORNING PEARL enters in good form with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, most recently coming from well back over 1200M. She only comes up 1kg in the weights, draws fairly and the step up in trip can be to her benefit. (8) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE has shown some decent speed across her three starts so far with the best being a swift 2nd at 1000M. She beat two of these on her way to 4th place at 1200M at her latest start on Boxing Day when she settled midfield and ran on and looks firmly in this today. (10) THUNDER HORSE comes back in trip after a creditable 3rd place over 1700M on January 8th. That equaled his best finish and having run a good time at this trip in the past, can match it again today. Draw a line through the latest run by (4) ORGALIM when from a wide draw he worked hard to get to position over 1200M before weakening. Instead go on his good 2nd place two starts back. He should be on pace here and will be in this a long way. (11) WILD SOCKS another in the frame.

Selections(7) Morning Pearl (8) Neoreul Eungwonhae (10) Thunder Horse (4) Orgalim
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 1

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

Three-year-old maidens with every horse in the race tackling the 1300M for the first time.  After an ordinary debut, (4) RAON THE TANK was a much-improved 2nd when from a wide gate he settled midfield and ran on strong over 1200M on January 14th. He comes up slightly in trip again but draws significantly better and could well have too much here. Logical second choice is (9) ADELE STELLA. He comes back in trip after a solid 3rd place at 1600M on January 7th finishing off well from midfield and should be close here. (1) VICTORY NINE may appreciate the step up in trip. All his previous starts have been at 1000M, and he has run adequately but from the inside gate today and with further to play with, he may be a tougher prospect. (10) JOSEPHINE QUEEN and (11) SOUTHERN KING didn’t finish too far back on their respective debuts, and both have the potential to improve here.

Selections(4) Raon The Tank (9) Adele Stella (1) Victory Nine (10) Josephine Queen
Next Best11, 13
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 11

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

(1) POSA POSA performed poorly on his first try at this distance on January 8th, finishing back in the field. He was later found to have some swelling in his right foreleg. He came back into training in the last week of January and from the inside gate and amongst company that can best be described as modest, he can win. That will mean overturning the form from that race on (2) LAGERTHA, who notched his second consecutive 5th place finish. He comes down slightly in the weights today with a small apprentice claim and looks the most credible danger. (5) B J FLASH did little in three outings last year but has subsequently been through two trials, winning the second of them, and may well be a different prospect tackling two turns for the first time. (3) HANI and (8) CLOUTER among other chances in a race with very ordinary form.

Selections(1) Posa Posa (2) Lagertha (5) B J Flash (3) Hani
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

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

(2) SEONGSIL CHOEGO has raced just twice with a 6th on debut followed by 4th at start number two on January 7th when he worked hard from a wide gate to get on pace. He comes into a better gate today which should give him an easier run in the race and that can allow him to overturn the form on main danger and possible betting favourite (1) DAEHO NURI. The latter comes in following 3rd place in that January 7th race when settling back and running on. He also has the fastest time among these at the distance to his name and is sure to be in the finish once more. (3) GREEN CHEETAH ran an improved 5th last time out at 1400M and while back in trip, draws well and has a very light weight with an apprentice taking 3kg off her back. (7) BLUE CAPTAIN should be better for coming back in trip today after two spins around 1400M. His best result was 3rd at 1200M last November in a good time. (6) YEONGCHEON POWER is another in the frame.

Selections(2) Seongsil Choego (1) Daeho Nuri (3) Green Cheetah (7) Blue Captain
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (6) BAEKDU GIRL was a good winner on debut on December 18th when she sat handy early, hitting the front in the straight to run on comfortably over 1000M. She comes up in class and in distance here but has every chance of maintaining her 100% record. (1) HWASUBOON is yet to finish any worse than 5th in five starts so far. That 5th was last time, and it was her first try at this class and distance, but the margins weren’t huge and from the inside gate today, she should be close. (11) BURUI YEOWANG ran 3rd in that race, which was her 7th top-five finish from eight attempts. She is tactically versatile so the wide draw shouldn’t be too much of a hindrance to her chances here. (14) BEST TORCH and (13) RAON THE DASH both come up in class following last start wins, the latter at this distance and the former on debut, and both should be able to measure up in this company despite the unhelpful draws.

Selections(6) Baekdu Girl (1) Hwasuboon (11) Burui Yeowang (14) Best Torch
Next Best13, 4
Fast Start1, 7, 11, 13

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

(1) LEGEND NUMBER ONE comes up in class and in distance following his maiden win at start number two over 1200M on January 14th at this distance. He is down in weight, draws superbly and the jockey/trainer combination ensures he will be favourite. (3) ALIVE STAR was an excellent winner 1200M at class 6 level on December 19th coming from just behind the early leaders to score comprehensively. He is up in class here but surely measures up and has claims again. So too a third last start winner in the shape of (13) STELL LUNA. Her win came at 1300M, but she hasn’t ben worse than 4th in four appearances to date and has posted good times at today’s trip. She doesn’t get the best of the draw but carries a light weight and should not be dismissed. (4) CHEONGHO LEADER is a perennial non-winner but knows how to bank money in this company and along with (10) GWANGDAESEUNGCHEON is a placing chance.

Selections(1) Legend Number One (3) Alive Star (13) Stell Luna (4) Cheongho Leader
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 13
(more…)

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations across the country are open although attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and proof of up to date vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

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

A maiden for three-year-old fillies opens proceedings and it is a competitive one. We’ll go with (3) UJUUI BOM, who led for much of the way around on debut over 1000M, ultimately finishing 3rd in a fast time. She draws nicely here, can be on pace again, and while there is an additional furlong to deal with, she can win. (9) WONDERFUL KITTY has raced three times so far with a best finish of 2nd at 1000M. She got too far back on her first try at this distance on Boxing Day, before running on well and given more of a chance here can be right in this. (8) HWIPARAM has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts, racing on pace both times and another bold showing will be expected here with the additional furlong likely to suit. (2) QUEENUI JILJU ran on pleasingly for 3rd on her debut having settled midfield and from a better draw today can be in the mix. (11) MIRACLE K perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(3) Ujuui Bom (9) Wonderful Kitty (8) Hwiparam (2) Queenui Jilju
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 11

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

(5) JILJU JEONSA has been making steady progress in recent outings with a 3rd and a 2nd in his latest two, only going down narrowly over 1300M last time when racing handy throughout. He steps back in trip today but has the fastest time among these for 1200M and could well go one better today. The main danger is (3) WARRIOR THUNDER. He too has found some consistency recently and enters off a solid 3rd at this distance on January 15th when he was close to the pace throughout. He’ll be challenging for the lead again here and will be in this a long way. He meets Jilju Jeonsa marginally better in weight than when they last raced each other. Disregard the latest outing of (1) LUCKY INDY when he had a hard time from a wide draw. He gets the inside lane today and should go much better. (6) KING CRUSH came home 4th behind Jilju Jeonsa last time and can go close again while (12) BADAUI KKUM is another in the frame.

Selections(5) Jilju Jeonsa (3) Warrior Thunder (1) Lucky Indy (6) King Crush
Next Best12, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 10

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

(5) DREAM SPEED looks the one to beat here. She comes up marginally in trip following a runner-up finish over 1200M on January 15th when she sat handy throughout and finished off well. The time was slow but so was the track that day and she won’t need to find much more to win here. (14) ARCH CHARM gets no luck with the barrier but has worked home well in two starts so far, both at 1000M. If Park Eul-woon can keep her into contention coming into the straight, she should pick plenty off, given the additional furlong and a half to play with today. (4) SAINT LUCCA struggled to overcome the widest gate last time out, using up plenty of effort to get on pace and then weakening over 1200M. He should have an easier time of it earlier on today and has claims. (9) EUNHYE DREAM improved last time out at start number three when going back and then running on over 1000M. She’s another who may like the extra distance. (10) BROWN CHARM one who could improve.

Selections(5) Dream Speed (14) Arch Charm (4) Saint Lucca (9) Eunhye Dream
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

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

It’s hard to look too far past (2) VICS GO. Having got his maiden win at 1000M two starts back, he stepped up to this class on Christmas Day and ran a very close 2nd. He comes up in trip and in weight today, but that is alleviated a little by a much better draw and with Munro climbing aboard, he looks hard to beat. (4) JISANGUN led at his latest start over this distance on December 26th, ultimately finishing a close at hand 3rd having used up plenty of effort getting across from gate thirteen. He too gets a much better draw today and will be on pace an in this a long way again. (14) HYPER CAR has overcome wide draws in both his latest two to run 3rd and 2nd. He is yet to win in thirteen attempts but has seven top-three finishes to his name and it would be no surprise to see him working home well again. (8) STELLA ROAD was a last start winner at this class over 1700M and can’t be discounted here. (9) GOLD K another with placing claims.

Selections(2) Vics Go (4) Jisangun (14) Hyper Car (8) Stella Road
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 10

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

(6) WONDERFUL K’s solitary win to date came at this distance three starts back at class 6 level and while he disappointed as favourite on his first try at this class in November, showed that he can compete at this level when 4th in his latest outing on December 12th. He comes in fresh here and can win this. Probable betting favourite is (2) CAPTAIN BRAVO. He has been consistent across his latest starts with three consecutive 4th place finishes in respectable company at 1200 to 1400M. All three times, he has finished off very smartly indeed, suggesting he may be ready to tackle two turns again. (1) GREAT EYE got his maiden win at class 6 level over 1400M in December before beating a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 4th place on his first try at this class and distance on January 16th. He draws well to sit behind the pace and can be in the mix again today. (8) AMAZING WHIZ enters in consistent form and should be there or thereabouts along with (5) DOUBLE TAKE.

Selections(6) Wonderful K (2) Captain Bravo (1) Great Eye (8) Amazing Whiz
Next Best5, 12
Fast Start4, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

It’s hard to go too far past (3) REDBACK here. He won well at this distance at class 5 level in October before getting too far back at 1400M on his first try at this class the following month. He ran a good 4th over 1800M on Christmas Day when close to the pace throughout. He comes up 1kg for that effort but expect him up with the leaders early and he should be too strong. (9) GRAY CAT comes up in class following a maiden win at start eleven over 1200M on January 15th, a win that had been coming. His running style suggests that two-turns should suit even better, and he can measure up in this company. (2) CHOIN GANGJA hasn’t quite lived up to his early potential, but he has a 2nd place at class and distance to his name and from a good draw can go close. (4) VICTORICA comes in off a 4th place at class and distance on a slow track on January 9th and along with (1) CHEONGSAN GANGHO is another with at least placing chances.

Selections(3) Redback (9) Gray Cat (2) Choin Gangja (4) Victorica
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Alllowance / KRW 60 Million

The top picks here all have wide gates to contend with. The very widest goes on top in the shape of (13) WOL YEONG I. While it took her fourteen starts to break through, which she finally did on January 16th, the win had been coming and she is consistent at this distance. She comes up in class, but this doesn’t look that much more difficult than her last assignment and while she may need a but of early luck in running, she is the one to beat. (11) BEST CHEONSANG is ultra-consistent with eight top five finishes from eleven starts including three consecutive 3rd places at class and distance leading into this. She will be close to the pace again and is a danger. (10) LONDON ACTIVE ran on well for 5th at class and distance on her latest start and while she comes up in the weights today, can be competitive. Better drawn in (6) LEAD VOCAL, who ran 6th in the same race as London Active last time out and can get closer today. (9) JEDI FORCE was on pace on debut on January 9th before weakening and should have come on for the experience.

Selections(13) Wol Yeong I (11) Best Cheonsang (10) London Active (6) Lead Vocal
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Competitive race here. We’ll take a chance on (5) TRIPLE KINGDOM who enters in consistent form and at his latest start in December ran a strong class and distance 4th. He generally goes back and runs on and should be going close again here. (7) CHUNSAN was 5th behind Triple Kingdom in that December race but came back out on January 9th to win at class and distance, going right back and then running on strongly. He comes up a couple of kilograms in the weights but will probably start as favourite He is first up for twelve weeks and didn’t set the world alight in a trial two weeks ago but (6) MIGHTY CHIP won at class and distance when we last saw him on November 20th. He too is up in weight from that, but he shouldn’t be dismissed. (8) NAMSANUI BYEOL comes up in class but significantly down in weight from a good win over 1700M in December and should measure up here. (13) DUSON JANGGUN another with placing chances.

Selections(5) Triple Kingdom (7) Chunsan (6) Mighty Chip (8) Namsanui Byeol
Next Best13, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

Tricky race to conclude with. (5) BLACK MUSK is the quality horse in the race and 1400M is his go, having won four of his five starts at the distance. Around those he has thrown in a couple of howlers including last start at 1200M but if he gets a good position from a good draw, he can win. Probably favourite is (14) PREEMAX. He beat three of these when 3rd at 1200M on January 16th, including Black Musk. The latter has beaten him twice at this distance, but Preemax meets him with a weight advantage here even if the draw is less than ideal. (10) DORAON NALRI is another who may be happy to get back to 1400M as he has put in some super runs at it and can at least place today. (7) MIGHTY NEW and (2) BYEOLNARA SINSA are others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Black Musk (14) Preemax (10) Doraon Nalri (7) Mighty New
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Segye Ilbo Cup Day Race-By-Race Preview (January 30)

The 2022 Stakes race season gets underway at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon with the twentieth running of the Segye Ilbo Cup. A field of fourteen that includes several Group winners will contest the Listed event over the sprint distance of 1200M, which returns to the calendar after having to be pandemically postponed in 2021.

The Segye Ilbo Cup will be run for the first time since 2020 when Simjangui Godong won. Do Kki Blade, who was 3rd that day, returns (Pic: KRA)

Raon First – the only filly or mare in the race – is the probable favourite, coming off her comfortable win over her distaff contemporaries in t Jeju Governor’s Cup at 1400M in December, but she has beaten the males at class 1 level too and with a weight allowance and a great draw she may prove hard to catch.

2020 Owners’ Association Trophy winner East Jet also lines up and will be a big danger while Busan’s challenge is led by Classic winner Touch Star Man and the speedy Doctor Carson. The Segye Ilbo Cup is race 9 on the 11-race program at Seoul Racecourse which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 12:00 to 16:40. All betting locations are open but attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Evidence of up to date vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener with no fewer than ten of the twelve racing for the very first time. One of those first-timers goes on top in the shape of (5) HAMPYEONG NABI, who caught the eye in a heat, leading almost the entire way around before crossing the line in 2nd in a fast time. She draws nicely here and appears set for a bold showing first up. The two with experience both raced adequately enough on debut to suggest they should be in the frame here. (7) MENI SPEAR came home 4th on debut on Christmas Day at this distance having previously won a trial while (8) DOLBAE debuted a day later and ran 5th in a fair time. With natural improvement both can go closer this time around. Returning to the newcomers, (11) MENI ACE and (4) SONGAM NURI trialed up together and could be the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Hampyeong Nabi (7) Meni Spear (8) Dolbae (11) Meni Ace
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

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

Small field as it’s restricted to sales graduates. Moon Se-young climbing aboard (6) FLYING ATHENA will prick some ears. He’s run adequately for 6th in both starts so far, last time running on over 1200M. Expect him to be up front early here and he could well break through. The primary danger is set to be (3) NAUI NARA. She’s improved across three outings so far, culminating with a 3rd place over 1400M on December 25th when she was prominent throughout. Expect her to be challenging for the early lead and to be in this a long way. Draw a line through the latest effort from (5) BIG ENERGY when he failed to settle from a wide draw. He had run consistently prior to that though and is worth another chance here. (1) MILLION QUEEN didn’t do much on debut but finished midfield and may improve from the inside gate. (9) GEOLJAK MAN has a 3rd place to his name and that’s enough to bring him into the calculations today.

Selections(6) Flying Athena (3) Maui Nara (5) Big Energy (1) Million Queen
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

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

(1) GRAND STAR beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at this distance on December 19th when handy throughout. That was his best finish to date in nine attempts and from a good draw on the inside, he can sit handy again and this time break through. (3) DIVINE POWER has raced adequately in three attempts at this distance, posting fair times. He generally settles midfield or worse and then runs on and should get past plenty here. (4) GEUMSEONG MAN comes up in trip following a much-improved 2nd place when stepped up to 1400M on December 25th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process and the additional distance may suit even more. (11) APPLE MINT and (8) M J STORM among others to enter the calculations.

Selections(1) Grand Star (3) Divine Power (4) Geumseong Man (11) Apple Mint
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Busan’s opener is a maiden for three-year-olds with four of the twelve making their racecourse debuts. We’ll tentatively side with experience as (7) JEONGDEUN-RO ran a solid 3rd on debut at this distance on January 10th, sitting handy all the way and completing the course in a fair time, albeit well back behind a good winner. She should have come on for that. Likely favourite is one of the first timers. (5) STAR ACE sat handy in his trial, finishing 2nd in a decent time. The Kim Young-kwan/You Hyun-myung combination is bound to make punters take note and from a good draw, there is no reason why he can’t win first-up. (12) INDIE MAGIC won a trial and while the draw does him no favours, in this company he can have claims first up. (1) GASOK DAY was 5th on debut in what was a monumentally slow race at the distance. He is surely capable of quicker and can improve from the inside gate. (9) SUNSHINE STAR maybe best of the rest.

Selections(7) Jeongdeun-Ro (5) Star Ace (12) Indie Magic (1) Gasok Day
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

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

She’s yet to break through in thirteen starts to date but (6) GOLDEN BADGE has a strong of near-misses and has also run a fast time at this distance. She comes in having come from well back to run 2nd over 1400M on Boxing Day and has solid claims here. So too (7) SARYEONI FIRST, who won over 1200M at class 6 level last November before finishing 3rd at this class and distance on December 12th. He will probably settle midfield and run on and shouldn’t be far away. (11) ADELE NARAE took to this distance well when stepped up to it on January 9th and running 2nd, ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He can build on that today. (9) BRAVO SOCKS and (3) RUFFIAN PARK are others who can have designs on the places.

Selections(6) Golden Badge (7) Saryeoni First (11) Adele Narae (9) Bravo Socks
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 11

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

(10) KING SATURDAY will be one of the hotter favourites of the weekend. He has finished 3rd and 2nd in his two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M and while he comes up in trip again here, he should be exiting class 6 with a win. (6) DROMOS ran fairly for 4th at her latest outing over 1200M and also has a 2nd at that distance to her name. She generally works home well, and the extended trip may be in her favour today. (12) NAMYANG CHEOLLI improved significantly when tried at this distance at start number three on December 24th when she led for much of the way, ultimately finishing in 2nd place in front of a couple of today’s rivals. The draw does her no favours here but with a touch of luck early, she can be in the finish. (1) QUEEN’S DAERO and (4) RUN AND GUN others to take into consideration.

Selections(10) King Saturday (6) Dromos (12) Namyang Cheolli (1) Queen’s Daero
Next Best4, 13
Fast Start6, 8, 11, 12
(more…)

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00 (the Jeju pony meeting is also simulcast to Seoul, hence such bug gaps between races). All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of up to date vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Raon Pink returns to action on Saturday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens here. (7) GLOBAL BOBAE will be the favourite having run 2nd on debut on Christmas Day, overcoming a wide draw to sit handy and run on in a good time. He should have come on for the experience and a similar run makes him hard to beat here. After winning a trial, (5) HATMURI ran 3rd on debut at this distance before running 6th at 1200M at start tow. He has had a couple of months off since then, Moon Se-young climbs aboard and he should go close. It’s similar with (2) P N S GOLD who has a 2nd and 4th from two starts so far. She draws well here and could be on pace from the start. (4) BE FLOWER and (6) YOUNG BLOOD are others to consider for improvement.

Selections(7) Global Bobae (5) Hatmuri (2) P N S Gold (4) Be Flower
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

(3) MUSTANG POWER ran a good 2nd on debut over this distance on December 25th. Coming from well off the pace. He was well-beaten by a good winner but showed enough to suggest he has some potential and from a much better gate this time, looks the one to beat. (14) G STAR has improved across three starts so far, including a runner-up finish at his latest on December 5th. He tends to get right back and then run on so the draw isn’t too much of a concern and the additional trip today may help. (13) GLOBAL PRIME too improved at his latest appearance on November 28th. He sat handy that day so may need a touch of luck early but is another who should like the increase in trip. (8) MABAWI and (10) AL SIMON others in the frame.

Selections(3) Mustang Power (14) G Star (13) Global Prime (8) Mabawi
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 12, 13

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

Fillies only here and a tricky one here especially as most of the leading contenders have drawn wide. With that in mind, we might as well go with the widest of all, (14) TOP POSITION drew widest of all on debut too over 1000M and stayed at the back before running on strong for 6th in a fast race. The additional trip here can give her more time to find a top position and she can win. So too (12) SOARA DAEBO. She has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before, recorded when 2nd on December 18th. She will settle midfield and should be in the finish again. (10) SMART BLUE beat a couple of these on her way to 2nd place at the distance on Christmas Day. It wasn’t a very fast time, but she seems to be heading in the right direction. (3) SWEET CAMP and (11) GEOSEN GISANG others in the placing frame.

Selections(14) Top Position (12) Soara Daebo (10) Smart Blue (3) Sweet Camp
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start4, 10, 11, 12

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

(10) JANGSAN POISON has worked home well in both starts so far and at his latest was 5th over 1200M coming from the back of the field. He looks like he needs a bit of distance, and he gets it here. So does (12) ASPENROS went right back on debut over 1300M on December 26th but finished off very nicely to beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place. He too should appreciate a bit more distance to play with today and could well start as favourite. Solitary debut-maker (3) FLY STAR finished off a trial very well in December and from a good draw has every chance of a bold showing first-up. (14) CHEONJI JIDAE was the big loser from the draw but has been consistent across his four starts so far and shouldn’t be far away. (2) HELLO GEUMSEONG mixes her form, but this is the kind of race in which she can challenge for minor money.

Selections(10) Jangsan Poison (12) Aspenros (3) Fly Star (14) Cheonji Jidae
Next Best2, 13
Fast Start9, 11, 13, 14
(more…)

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

There’s racing at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday with 11 races in the capital from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 on the South Coast from 12:05 to 16:40. All betting locations are open but attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and evidence of up to date vaccination against Covid19 is required. Here are the previews:

Heunghaeng Jilju (KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings with four of the twelve racing for the very first time. (9) ROAD ACE put in a couple of very solid runs at this distance, including a 2nd place in a fast time back in October. He has since raced poorly at 1300M and 1200M but coming back to the minimum trip today could well see him improve. The likely favourite is (5) CONCORDE SPURT, who ran 3rd on debut at this distance on Christmas Day when slowly away and then running on well. The time wasn’t fast but with a better start today and with some natural improvement, can win this. (6) CUPID SAFE only managed to finish in 7th place on debut in October but it was in a decent time – albeit during a period when the track was racing very fast. She’s had sixteen weeks off since then but every chance of going well from a central gate. (3) WONDERFUL SHADOW and (11) MAGIC GLORY looks the best of the first-timers.

Selections(9) Road Ace (5) Concorde Spurt (6) Cupid Safe (3) Wonderful Shadow
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 12

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

A full field of three-year-old maiden fillies. (8) K N OLD QUEEN is the one to beat. After a promising trial, she ran 2nd on debut in a fair time at 1000M on December 26th, having raced prominently throughout. The Park Dae-heung/Moon Se-young combination will attract plenty and she surely jumps the favourite. (7) RISING HAWK also comes up in trip after a placing on debut when 3rd over 1000M on December 11th. She sat in midfield and finished off well and should have come on for that. (12) BURUI KKOT has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before. She has improved across three starts so far and was a very good 2nd at this distance on December 26th. She doesn’t draw so well today but should be in the finish again. (4) GREAT JENNY on the other hand, gets a much better draw than she did on debut at this distance on December 18th when she had to settle at the back but ran on strong. She can improve today. (11) WONPYEONG QUEEN, who finished in 4th place ahead of Great Jenny in that race, is another in the hunt.

Selections(8) K N Old Queen (7) Rising Hawk (12) Burui Kkot (4) Great Jenny
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 12

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

(4) BYEORAK will be hot favourite here. He has improved across his four starts to date culminating in 2nd place when stepped up to this trip at his most recent start on December 26th, when he settled handy and ran on. Expect similar tactics today and he won’t need much improvement to win this. (11) DUSON DRIVE is the clear second choice. He comes up in trip after three goes at 1000M, the latest of which resulted in a runner-up finish. He ran consistent times and there is not reason the additional trip should be a problem. We’ll really have to take the others on trust. (12) SINJURYU was 3rd at this distance at his latest start and while the time wasn’t quick and he draws wide, that’s enough to get him into the numbers here. (10) CHEONGSAN YEONGUNG had a poor day at the office last time out but has run fast times at shorter and may improve. (3) ONE PUTT generally blows the start but is capable of finishing well.

Selections(4) Byeorak (11) Duson Drive (12) Sinjuryu (10) Cheongsan Yeongung
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start2, 10, 11, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the south-coast opener with eight of them racing for the first time. It will be one of the four with experience who starts as the hot favourite though. (1) GUARDIAN ANGEL was 4th on debut back on November 26th in a good time when settling in midfield and then running on. With any kind of improvement at all, she will be very hard to beat. (10) BRAVO HAMYANG went through two trials and showed improvement in the second of those on Christmas Day, coming home in 2nd place in a fair time. He looks the best of the newcomers. (12) B. K. NEW MOON won her trial on December 18th with a front-running performance. The Take Charge Indy filly draws wide but can also go well in this company first up. Returning to those with experience, (5) ETERNAL ACE and (11) DEER KING both ran fairly on debuts for mid-field finishes, and both can be considered for improvement with top jockeys booked.

Selections(1) Guardian Angel (10) Bravo Hamyang (12) B. K. New Moon (5) Eternal Ace
Next Best11, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 10, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(4) JEONGMUN JJANG returns to action following almost eleven months on the sidelines. Previously he had run well at his distance, and he looked well when almost leading the entire way around in a Christmas Eve trial. He will obviously need this, but he draws well to get on pace and in an open race, has as good a chance as any. (8) V QUEEN has the fastest time among those who have tackled this distance before. She’s only been ordinary in her latest two starts but looks nicely in here to sit behind the speed and then run on. (11) MUNHAK FOREST likes to be on pace so may need some luck given his barrier, but he has a runner-up finish to his name at this distance and can be in the finish again. (1) PEPE RUN and (7) GWACHEON SINSEGYE are among others who can challenge for at least minor money.

Selections(4) Jeongmun Jjang (8) V Queen (11) Munhak Forest (1) Pepe Run
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start4, 6, 10, 11

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

(10) WILD ADELE has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 3rd place over 1300M at her latest when she led until the furlong pole. She comes up slightly in trip and draws wider, but an apprentice takes some weight off and she can go even closer this time. (4) NAMDO ILDEUNG is thoroughly unspectacular but is generally consistent. She drops back in trip following some recent efforts over a mile including a solid 3rd place last time. She will sit handy here and run on and will probably start as the betting favourite. (3) RAON THE MILLION was 6th behind Namdo Ildeung at their respective latest starts and from a good draw can find a nice position again and finish off well. (2) SILVER LADY has the fastest time among those here who have tried this distance before and while it wasn’t fast, it’s probably enough to bring her into the calculations here. (12) GREEN PAPAGO another in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Wild Adele (4) Namdo Ildeung (3) Raon The Million (2) Silver Lady
Next Best12, 13
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 12

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

A big field off fillies and mares and (2) SEONGSIL MONEY gets the nod. She is yet to win in nine attempts but but has eight top-five finishes and comes in following a good 2nd place at this class over 1300M on November 27th. She’s run a decent time at this distance as well and from a nice draw, Moon Se-young can pick his spot and she can win. (6) REMARKABLE ran well back behind Seongsil Money in that November race but has run once since then when 4th over 1300M beating a couple of today’s rivals and she can be in the hunt here. (11) SMART HIGH was a winner at class 6 level two starts back over 1200M before running adequately for 4th on her first try at this class, again over the 1200M, on December 18th. She’ll be on or close to the pace here and a chance. (14) JEONGSANG Z and (5) BLACK ROOKIE among others to consider for places.

Selections(2) Seongsil Money (6) Remarkable (11) Smart High (14) Jeongsang Z
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start10, 11, 12, 13

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

Wildly competitive race. We’ll go with (14) LIGHT STORY to defy gate fourteen and return to the winner’s circle. He was the all the away winner on debut over 1000M before struggling on return at 1400M. In his latest two, he has seemed to be working back to form though with a close-up 2nd to a stablemate he really should have beaten at his latest on Christmas Eve. Seo Seung-un returns today and he could win. (1) ADELE CHUKBAE made all to get his maiden win at start number five on December 17th over this distance. He draws the inside once more and should measure up in this company. (6) CROWN KING STAR beat three of these on his way to 3rd place at this class over 1200M on Boxing Day, leading for much of the way around. He comes up significantly in the weights but You Hyun-myung climbs aboard and he should be a contender. (10) CAPTAIN YANKEE and (11) UNJU HERO are others in the frame.

Selections(14) Light Story (1) Adele Chukbae (6) Crown King Star (10) Captain Yankee
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 10
(more…)

Saturday Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview January 22

Saturday’s action moves to Seoul where there are 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and evidence of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings with seven of the twelve racing for the very first time. The hot favourite has raced before though and that’s (11) CLAIR POINT. The filly won a trial before running 2nd on debut on December 18th in a fast time when prominent throughout. The draw may not be ideal here, but she should overcome that to get to the front and will take some beating. (5) CUPID WAY looks the best of the newcomers. While her official trial in November saw her just scrape though inside the qualifying time, she was put in a second voluntary one on Christmas Eve (which may not appear in all race cards, so be aware) and looked much more composed, running 3rd in a decent time. With some natural improvement on that, she can go well first-up here. (2) NAOL ACE finished in midfield on debut. Moon Se-young remains aboard and from a good gate, he looks set for improvement.  So too (6) TTEOOREUDA, who gets a better draw than she did when 8th on debut. Returning to the first timers, (12) SUPERDIA looks to be another who could make an impact.

Selections(11) Clair Point (5) Cupid Way (2) Naol Ace (6) Tteooreuda
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Tricky one. Apprentice Kim Tae-hui partnered four winners last weekend and we’ll take a chance on her maintaining the hot streak here with (3) MIRACLE DAUGHTER. Luigi Riccardi’s filly was a solid 4th on debut at this distance on December 12th, racing handy throughout and can improve here under next to no weight. The probably favourite is (11) CUPID VOW. He’s been sent off at short odds in both his starts so far, coming home 6th and 3rd, the latter at 1200M. He comes back down in trip today and while he may need a touch of luck from out wide, he looks very much in this. (2) CASH BACK has the fastest time in the field for the distance, recorded when 3rd two starts back. He draws well, should be on pace, and can be in this a long way. (12) YESULIYA will also attempt to get to the lead early. He ran consistent times in three attempts at this distance, registering a best finish of 3rd and led over 1200M at his latest outing before ultimately finishing in 5th. (7) TOUCH NINE, who also has a decent time in his record, the best of the rest.

Selections(3) Miracle Duaghter (11) Cupid Vow (2) Cash Back (12) Yesuliya
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 11, 12

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

A big field of fillies take their chance here. She draws badly but (12) BARO QUEEN can be given a chance here. She has steadily improved across four starts to date and ran well for a close at hand 3rd place on her first try at this distance on Christmas Day. She may need a bit of luck early on but if she can find a good position, she can win. (7) ELITE RULES probably deserves to start the favourite based on her last start 2nd place at class and distance. She led for much of that race and while there is a fair amount of early speed here, she can sit handy and run on strong again. (13) MAY BLADE hasn’t run badly for misfield finishes in three starts so far and overcame a wide draw for 6th in a fair time at this distance at her latest start. She can finish off well again. (14) DONGSEO YEOGEOL draws even worse but if she can follow the pair on her inside across to find a good position, she can go close too. (1) SUNNY BLADE the best of the rest.

Selections(12) Baro Queen (7) Elite Rules (13) May Blade (14) Dongseo Yeogeol
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 12, 13, 14

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

After three consecutive runner-up finishes, it’s time (6) YONGHOJIMA went one better. He beat three of these on his latest outing on December 19th, leading for most of the way around and in this company should settle handy and prove too strong late on. (10) RULES CLASS looks to be the logical second pick. He comes in having run 4th behind Yonghojima on December 19th when he settled midfield and then ran on. He has eight top-five finishes from eleven starts so far and should maintain his consistent run of form here. Draw a line through the latest effort from (1) MIGHTY SUNSHINE, where he weakened badly over 1400M. Coming back in trip today and drawn on the inside, we can see a much better performance. (7) MASEONG CHEONHA comes up in class after two fair 3rd places at class 6 level last autumn. He’s had twelve weeks off but gets a nice draw and a very light weight and don’t be surprised to see him on pace and in this a long way. (2) PERFECT POWER was 5th in that December 19th race behind Yonghojima and should be competitive here again.

Selections(6) Yonghojima (10) Rules Class (1) Mighty Sunshine (7) Maseong Cheonha
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 11

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

Another big field but it’s hard to go past (3) BYEOLUI SUNGAN. A good winner two starts back at this class over 1300M he led for much of the way around at his latest start at this distance on December 19th before being caught and ending up in 4th. That was his worst finish to date and he should be putting things right today. To do that, he will need to overturn the form on (6) ALCHAN NURI, who ran 3rd in that race, following up a narrow 2nd, also at this distance in November. He doesn’t exactly win out of turn, but he can go close again. (12) MAGIC JOY comes back in trip after two successful spins around 1700M, which saw him to a win at class 6 level and runner-up finish at this. The draw isn’t great, but he should be in the finish again. So too (9) K N UNDERKING races for the first time since running 2nd to Byeolui Sungan on November 6th. That was just his third start, and he steps up slightly in trip here with claims for more improvement. (10) DESK TAP among a number of others with placing claims.

Selections(3) Byeolui Sungan (6) Alchan Nuri (12) Magic Joy (9) K N Underking
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 10
(more…)

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (January 16)

Sunday sees meetings at both Seoul and Busan. Seoul has an 11-race card from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan the action runs from 12:00 to 16:40. The feature race is Busan’s finale involving 2000M track-record holder Fantastic Man, facing off with the likes of Blue Chipper, Great King and Smart Prince in a fourteen-runner field. All betting locations are open but attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Evidence of up to date vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews

He’s moved trainers again – Blue Chipper goes at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies to kick things off and five of the twelve are racing for the first time. (8) HAPPY MIX has earned favourite status following good 4th place on debut in a fast time on December 19th when she sat midfield from a wide gate and ran on well. The draw is a little better this time and she has every chance. (5) JEONGSANG FIGHTING’s one race so far was back in July of last year when she put in a fair effort over this distance. She looked very well when trialing up on Christmas Eve to requalify and much more can be expected this time around. (3) SAENGIL SEONMUL should improve on the 8th place she scored on debut in November and can be expected to be on pace from a good gate. Of the first-time starters, (7) SPEAR GOLD and (6) CITY CHARM both trialed up well enough and can go well first-up.

Selections(8) Happy Mix (5) Jeongsang Fighting (3) Saengil Seonmul (7) Spear Gold
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 10

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

Three-year-old maidens. (7) EUNHYE looks very much the one to beat having led almost the entire way around at this distance on November 20th, only to be caught by a good winner and finish in 2nd place. He’ll be on speed or handy here and this time can go all the way. (2) HANGANG BOSS was a solid 4th on his first try at this distance on December 11th, only narrowly missing out on 3rd. He can have come on for that run and be considered for better here. (8) EAGLE POINT came from well off the pace to run 2nd on debut over 1000M on November 27th. The step up in trip should suit and he’ll be coming home fast again. (4) GOOD NISEN was further back in the same race on his own debut having previously gone well in a trial and there can be improvement today. (6) THE FAVORITE was beaten by Eunhye at her latest start but has been consistent across three outings so far and should be competing for a place.

Selections(7) Eunhye (2) Hangang Boss (8) Eagle Point (4) Good Nisen
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11

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

While it’s fair to say that (5) GOLD KAISER has mixed her form across three starts so far, her bad run came when drawn very wide and her two good ones when drawn similarly to today, including at her latest when a front-running 3rd over this distance. Just like today, that was in restricted filly and mare company, and this could be her day. (11) DONGHAENG raced twice last Spring, finishing 2nd on both occasions. She returns here after thirty-four weeks out having run well in a competitive trial in December in which she led for much of the way around alongside good horses. She has every chance of going well first-up. (1) WELLBEING CHAMPION ran on pleasingly for 5th on debut over 1000M in December. She comes up in trip and 4kg in the weights here without an apprentice aboard but from the inside, she may just sneak into the places. (13) FIRST ROAD and (7) RAON THE PEARL are others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Gold Kaiser (11) Donghaeng (1) Wellbeing Champion (13) First Road
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies greet the starter in the opener at Busan with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (11) BEAUTY BROWN is set to start a hot favourite having beaten a couple of these on her way to 2nd place on debut in a similar event on December 17th, when she led for much of the way around. She drew even wider that day so the barrier shouldn’t be a problem and she should go one better.  The logical main challengers are a couple of the first-time starters. (4) HOLLYWOOD PARTY is the pick of these having run 2nd in a trial in a decent time although (7) KF ONE stopped the clock competitively too in her heat and with a 4kg weight allowance can make an impact. Returning to those with prior experience, (3) WONDERFUL CUTIE and (9) HAPPY SONG SONG perhaps have the greatest chance of improving.

Selections(11) Beauty Brown (4) Hollywood Party (7) KF One (3) Wonderful Cutie
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three and four-year-old maidens. (8) TIZ BAROWS will be a warm favourite having debuted well over 1300M on December 11th when going right back and then finishing off very well. The additional half-furlong should suit, and he is the one to beat. (9) NEW A ONE improved at start number two when runner-up at 1200M with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He too went right back that day before running on and should appreciate a bit more distance here. (4) P N S CHANCE has been consistent across her three outings to date and is yet another who may like a bit of extra distance as she has been doing her best work late on each occasion. If you prefer a front-runner, then (3) BE CRAZY may be the one to go for. He has been on pace in both starts so far, finishing 4th both times, most recently behind New A One and from a nice draw will be up in front early again. (1) GEOLJAK WOMAN another in the hunt.

Selections(8) Tiz Barows (9) New A One (4) P N S Chance (3) Be Crazy
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 13

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

It’s hard to oppose (1) MONEY CASE here. He’s run 4th and 2nd in two starts so far, both at 1000M and the latter in a fast time when handy throughout and running on. He looks to be working towards a maiden win and it can come here from the inside gate and under the track’s most in-form jockey. (5) GEUMA STARLET drops back in trip after an inauspicious spin around 1400M when favourite on Christmas Eve. Draw a line though that and instead go on his previous effort when 2nd at this distance on December 5th, beating a few of these in the process. You Hyun-myung climbs aboard today and he should be back in the finish. Also coming back in trip is (10) CHIEF OFFICER. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and gets a 4kg claim today. He may need some early luck from a relatively wide draw though. (6) YEONGGWANGUI RIDER ran 5th behind Geuma Starlet in early December having briefly led. He has trialed since then and should strip fitter. (4) SORI TAEPUNG resumes after eight months out and while he will need this, could sneak some minor money.

Selections(1) Money Case (5) Geuma Starlet (10) Chief Officer (6) Yeonggwangui Rider
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7
(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 15)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations are open but attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and proof of up to date vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens to kick things off with three of the twelve racing for the very first time. One of those debut makers is set to be favourite. (10) QUICKLY RUN trialed up very nicely when leading and ultimately running a close 2nd behind an experienced racehorse and ahead of one who has gone on to run 2nd three times. It was all the way back in September, but she will be expected to win first-up here. Much of that is to do with the exposed form of the rest. (1) SKY PANGPANG looks the best of those with experience, having overcome a slow start to run on well for 4th on debut on December 2nd. He gets a netter draw today and with a better start can get closer. (11) BEAT UP didn’t have much luck on debut but looks to have scope to improve. (8) EUNHYE DREAM made steady progress from start one to start two and can maintain that momentum today. Returning to the first-timers, (9) USEUNG BARAM trialed adequately and may be considered first up.

Selections(10) Quickly Run (1) Sky Pangpang (11) Beat Up (8) Eunhye Dream
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 10

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

(7) WARRIOR THUNDER is a warm favourite here. Two starts back he ran 2nd over 1300M and last time out was on pace at this distance, finishing in 4th place and recording a time faster than anything else in this race has achieved. He’ll be on pace again and a similar run in this company can see him win. (3) HAPPY DREAM was stepped up to this distance at start number five on December 12th having previously been so slow she was sent back to trial after all but one previous attempt. She ran better, finishing 3rd in an admittedly pedestrian race, but with some natural improvement, a good draw and Munro remaining aboard, there are reasons to be optimistic here. (9) DREAM SPEED has been consistent if unspectacular across four outings to date. She ran a decent 5th at this distance last time and consistent if unspectacular should be enough to se her to a place here. (5) M J STORM and first-time starter (2) TIZ RUNNER others who can aim for minor money.

Selections(7) Warrior Thunder (3) Happy Dream (9) Dream Speed (5) M J Storm
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 9, 7

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

We’ll take a chance on (1) JILJU BORN here. He races for the first time since last July but is a front-runner who recorded a fast time over 1000M. He trialed up very well in December leading almost the entire way around before crossing the line in 2nd place and from a great inside draw, he may get a soft lead and potentially go all the way. Otherwise, all roads lead to (8) GEUMGUKHWA. She has the fastest time among these at this distance as well as being the only one with a top-two finish to her name. She was difficult to load last time and returned with speedy cuts after being a well beaten odds-on favourite. In this company though she is absolutely worth another chance. Solitary debut-maker (10) DREAM YEOWANG made all to win a Christmas Eve trial and should be in the frame first-up. (4) NEW HOPE and (11) RAON THE WILD are others who can place.

Selections(1) Jilju Born (8) Geumgukhwa (10) Dream Yeowang (4) New Hope
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 12

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

(4) KING CRUSH may not have finished any better than 4th across his five starts to date but he has some very good performances at this distance including a 4th and a 5th from his latest two in good times. He draws nicely today and should be on or close to the place and has solid claims to make his breakthrough here. (6) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN comes down in trip and, with an apprentice on board, down in the weights too from her 3rd place in a slow race over 1400M on December 11th. That was her best finish to date and nicely in here, she can match or better it. (3) JILJU JEONSA improved into 3rd at his latest start on December 18th when settling in midfield and running on over 1200M. He comes up to this trip or the first time today and it may well suit. (7) GEOSEN GISANG and (11) DANCE MACHINE among others to take into consideration.

Selections(4) King Crush (6) Sojunghan Dangsin (3) Jilju Jeonsa (7) Geosen Gisang
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 9

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

A big field here but we’re likely to have a strong favourite in the shape of (12) POWER BOX. He was a strong winner over 1000M last September before using up a lot of energy to get to the front from a wide draw on his first try at this class and distance in October, ultimately weakening. Drawn wide again at his latest start on November 28th, he was ridden more patiently and ran on well for 2nd. Kim Yong-geun knows the horse well and he can make the breakthrough today. (7) GRAY CAT overcame a wide draw to run 3rd in a fast time over 1300M on December 18th. He now has four top-three finishes form ten starts and while he may find one or two too quick again, he can maintain that record here. (11) TAP QUALITY and (14) DUSON FANTASTIC both had poor days at the office on their respective latest starts but are better than that and can be involved here. (4) FOREVER KHAN too struggled on his first try at this class but can be given another chance today.

Selections(12) Power Box (7) Gray Cat (11) Tap Quality (14) Duson Fantastic
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 12

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Tricky race this. (7) P N S LUCKY comes out of the Breeders’ Cup champion juvenile race on December 5th where she ran 8th of 12 but in a creditable time. She had previously run a blistering 59.7 over the five furlongs at the end of October. Back in more limited company today, she has every chance of returning to the winner’s circle. (3) HOLIDAY CHARM was a class and distance winner two starts back when running on strongly from midfield in a good time. He is up 3kg on that and did struggle on his return on December 19th, but he draws a much better gate this time and can be given another chance. (10) HYPER CAR returned from more than six months out to run a good 4th at class and distance on December 11th. He is yet to win but has six top-three finishes from twelve starts and can be in the mix here. The up in class but significantly down in weight (2) BARAMGWA HAMKKE might warrant an each-way chance alongside (4) ILBO DEUNGCHEON.

Selections(7) P N S Lucky (3) Holiday Charm (10) Hyper Car (2) Baramgwa Hamkke
Next Best4, 12
Fast Start7, 8, 11, 14

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Small field but a hot favourite here. (5) CHOEGANG GAME comes in having run 4th in the Korean Derby and then 3rd in the Minister’s Cup, the final two legs of the 2021 Triple Crown. He had a win record of three from four before those races and the time he had to run in the Derby at this distance was almost three seconds faster than anything else in this race has achieved. He gives weight away, but he looks very hard to beat. (4) SERVE ACE comes out of the filly Triple Crown where she ran a big 3rd in the Oaks having missed the break before not quite seeing out the 2000M of the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup. It’s hard to see her beating the favourite here but she should beat plenty of the rest. (1) GEUMA SUPREME and (2) QUIET ADELE are generally knocking on the door at class and distance and along with (9) SISEONJIPJUNG, can compete for the minor places.

Selections(5) Choegang Game (4) Serve Ace (1) Geuma Supreme (2) Quiet Adele
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(5) MYEONGJIN DAY returned from eight months out to run a good 3rd place at class and distance on December 19th in a good time. He has never been worse than 4th and should come on for that run looking very much the one to beat here. (6) ROCK LINE comes in off a good win at this class over 1200M on December 12th when he sat behind the speed and then ran on strong. At the start before he was a close 3rd at this distance. He does come up 3.5kg in the weights today but should be in the hunt again. Those two are by some margin the standouts. (7) BLACK PUNCH was a much-improved 4th at his latest start and can maintain that progress today. (3) SUN FO RE mixes his form but has a number of minor money finishes and can be competitive here. Debut-maker (2) MUNHAK DIAL may beat a few.

Selections(5) Myeongjin Day (6) Rock Line (7) Black Punch (3) Sun For Re
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(14) MIGHTY BOOM beat several of these on her way to a close 2nd place finish at class and distance on December 12th when sitting just behind the speed and running on. She comes up 2kg in the weights today and draws even further out than last time (she had gate 12) but she can overcome both and go one better here. The draw though does hand the initiative over to (4) MONSTER K, who ran 3rd in that race. He has won at the distance at class 4 level and will be a big danger today, most likely leading from the start. (7) SOUL MERIT come sup in class following a smart victory over 1200M back in November. He has run good times at this distance too and comes down in the weights here. (13) ROYAL ELVIS and (6) GLOBAL THUNDER are others who should be close.

Selections(14) Mighty Boom (4) Monster K (7) Soul Merit (13) Royal Elvis
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 14

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Raon The Fighter v Eoma Eoma Race-By-Race Preview (January 9)

It hasn’t taken long for the new season to throw up a heavyweight clash as the unbeaten Raon The Fighter once more takes on Eoma Eoma, who he beat to win the Owners’ Association Trophy a month ago in the concluding class 1 feature at Seoul. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12: 12:00 to 16:40. All betting locations are open, however, attendance must be pre-booked on the MyCard app and proof of evidence of up to date vaccination against Covid-19 is required.

Raon The Fighter

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings and (10) WILD RUNNER is set to be favourite. She ran 2nd on debut behind a couple of decent ones in a fast time. The one concern is that it was back in October but regardless, any similar kind of performance should see her winning this. If she is a bit rusty, then another filly, (6) HIWPARAM, may be one to take advantage. She too ran a very solid 3rd on debut, in her case on November 20th when she was handy throughout, completing the course in a fair time on a slower running track than Wild Runner’s time. She draws well here and should go close. (4) GEOMOON came home 6th behind a few promising ones on debut and should have benefitted from the experience, while (9) ARCH CHARM similarly didn’t do too much wrong when 5th from a wide gate at her first attempt. Among the six first-timers, (1) CHANGER is perhaps the best at this stage.

Selections(10) Wild Runner (6) Hwiparam (4) Geomoon (9) Arch Charm
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

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

A pair of socks should be battling this one out. We’ll side with (2) WILD SOCKS, who ran 2nd at start number two at 1000M having led for almost the entire way around. He comes up slightly in trip but draws beautifully again and could go all the way. (7) TITAN SOCKS has the same owner although a different trainer and has followed a similar trajectory so far, improving to 3rd at his second outing on December 4th. He came from off the pace though, working home well and it may be that the additional furlong is in his favour here. (12) ORGALIM comes into the calculations having beaten several of these on his way to 2nd place at this distance on December 4th in a fair time. He sat handy that day so may need a bit of luck from the wide gate (9) GEOLJAK MAN was 3rd in that race and along with (3) MUNHAK FOREST looks to have another placing chance here.

Selections(2) Wild Socks (7) Titan Socks (12) Orgalim (9) Geoljak Man
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 12

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

It may be a bit risky to go all-in on anything drawn as wide as he has done but it’s not easy to see (14) TES GO DAEBO getting rolled here. He has raced just twice, registering a 4th and a 2nd, the latest at 1200M when handy and running on. The additional trip may help him find a decent position from the car park. (3) OKDONG GONGJU has five top-five finishes among ten outings so far and looks set to be one who could push the favourite here from a good draw. (10) SAENAE POWERFUL was a significantly improved 3rd at start number two on December 12th leading most of the way around and he too should be a contender here. The rest have been models of inconsistency but (7) TINA and (8) NAMSAN DREAM could potentially compete for places.

Selections(14) Tes Go Daebo (3) Okdong Gongju (10) Saenae Powerful (7) Tina
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start8, 10, 12, 14

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Maidens, with four of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) B. K. HANA comes in with form reading the best following a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two appearances. The 2nd was at today’s distance when she was handy throughout from a wide gate and with a time more than second faster than any of the others have managed, she is the one to beat. (7) JATNAMUGIL is the logical second pick. He was 6th to B. K. Hana two starts back but the improved to 3rd at his latest outing when stepped up to 1200. He’ll be on pace and in this a long way. (4) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG beat a couple of these when 5th on debut at the distance on November 26th. He draws much better today and should have come on. Among the first timers, (2) KENDRICK is stand out. The Take Charge Indy colt ran a strong trial in a fast time and from a great draw can go well. (1) EUTTEUMI perhaps has potential to improve.

Selections(9) B. K. Hana (7) Jatnamugil (4) Eunseong Yeongung (2) Kendrick
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 9

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

After trialing up alongside some established horses, (12) NAMSAM KKOT ran a solid 3rd on debut over 1200M, settling in midfield and running on strongly. She draws wide but her running style that day suggests it shouldn’t be too much of a problem and she could be challenging for the win here. (10) RAON THE WEEKEND had an ordinary day at the office in probably better company than this at his latest start on December 11th when he wasn’t able to get on pace from a very wide draw. The draw is only a little better today, but he should have an easier time getting to the front and the additional half-furlong can help.  Continuing the theme of wide draws, (13) DONGSEO YEOGEOL was a significantly improved 2nd when going back and coming from off the pace over 1200M on December 5th. She had raced prominently in previous starts, to no avail, so expect similar tactics here. (4) REAL CONCORD is a fancy who does draw well and should be in the hunt along with (9) ONE MORE RUSH.

Selections(12) Namsam Kkot (10) Raon The Weekend (13) Dongseo Yeogeol (4) Real Concord
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start4, 9, 10, 13

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

Fillies and mares only here. Based on her last start runner-up finish at this distance in a time quicker than anything else in this race has managed, (8) TAEPUNGI is the one to beat here. She sat midfield and ran on that day and under a light weight again, can go one better. (9) ALPHA V should have come on for her debut run when settling midfield before getting well back and then working home adequately. She had previously posted fast trial times so there is some ability there and a more mature performance can see her right in this. (2) HAMAN YEOHANGSAN returned from three months off to run a good 3rd over this distance on December 19th. She can strip fitter here and get close. (1) OMEGA GIRL and (6) WORLD FLOWER came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at 1400M on December 10th and both can have placing claims again.

Selections(8) Taepungi (9) Alpha V (2) Haman Yeohangsan (1) Omega Girl
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 9
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 8)

The capital’s racing year kicks off on Saturday with 9 races from 10:45 to 1800. Betting locations are open but attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens to get the card underway with nine of the twelve racing for the very first time. We’ll side with experience and (11) K N TIZWON who, after a promising trial, ran 4th on debut back on November 20th. While the time wasn’t fast, he should have come on for the experience and despite the wide draw, he can win this. The main danger – and possible favourite – is one of the first timers. (7) BEST TORCH trialed up all the way back in September but trialed up well and while it has taken some time to get her to the races, she looks capable of going well first-up. (3) BE FLOWER also trialed well, in her case in December. She draws nicely here and under a light weight should be in the mix. (10) CONCORD SPARK similarly hinted at ability in her heat. Returning to those with prior experience, (1) HUMMING BIRD is perhaps the most likely to improve.

Selections(11) K N Tizwon (7) Best Torch (3) Be Flower (10) Concord Spark
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

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

(6) COMPLETE LUCKY has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place at his latest outing in November when handy all the way around. He stretches out to 1200M for the first time, should be on pace from the start, and is the one to beat. (9) RAON THE DASH ran 3rd behind Complete Lucky at what for both was their latest outings. For her two that was an improvement, and she can maintain her progress here. (8) GEOLJAK DREAM ran on well for 3rd place over 1000M on December 5th. She too steps up in trip for the first time and looks firmly in the hunt. (10) EUNHYE SERVE put in two consistent runs for 4th and 2nd over 1000M and while the draw is a little wide here, she should be competitive. (11) P N S HER hasn’t impressed in her latest two but ran well in the Munhwa Ilbo Cup three starts back so there is evidently some ability there.

Selections(6) Complete Lucky (9) Raon The Dash (8) Geoljak Dream (10) Eunhye Serve
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 10

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

(8) DOUBLE TAKE is yet to finish in the top two from nine attempts but has five top-five finishes, including in each of her latest four. She has generally come from off the pace and worked home well, including last time at 1300M and it is possible the extended trip today can work in her favour. It certainly seemed to suit (5) BUL HWASAN as he recorded his best finish to date when 4th at it on December 5th. He should have benefited from that and can be a danger here. (9) THUNDER HORSE also has a 4th place to his name over this distance which he achieved three starts back. He has maintained his consistent run of form since then with two subsequent 4th places at shorter and he should be challenging for a place here. (11) POSA POSA and (7) LAGERTHA are others in the frame.

Selections(8) Double Take (5) Bul Hwasan (9) Thunder Horse (11) Posa Posa
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 11

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

Tricky one with a big field. (7) HI HI has finished in the top-three in six of eight starts so far and has the fastest time among any of these for the distance. He was only 6th at his latest start but the margins weren’t huge, and he has every chance here. (10) REAL PACK comes in following two very solid performances over 1400M, the latter when 4th at this class. He comes back in trip today and could well have a say in the finish here. (3) OLD SPECIAL took a couple of races to get to grips with this level but enters in consistent form. He draws well here and should be in this a long way. (9) FORT SEUONE hinted at a return to form with 4th place in a decent time at class and distance a month ago and can be a danger here. Similarly, (2) RAON THE TIGER has mixed his form of late but Moon Se-young climbing aboard will make punters take note.

Selections(7) Hi HI (10) Real Pack (3) Old Special (9) Fort Seuone
Next Best2, 13
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

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

A very competitive race with plenty of potential winners. We’ll take a chance on (10) FAST TRACK, who comes up in class following his maiden win at start number four over this distance on December 4th when he sat handy before running away to score comfortably. This is harder but he drew wide that day as well and he looks to have potential for more. (5) MEOTJIN GIROK also comes up in class following his maiden win which came when he made all over 1200M. He tackles this trip for the first time but has a great draw and can be expected to lead again. (8) K N MENIQUEEN can be expected to improve on her first-up run on December 5th when she was never a factor. She has plenty of ability and can aim to place here. (9) OLD BLADE and (3) SONGAM CAT are among others who can go close.

Selections(10) Fast Track (5) Meotjin Girok (8) K N Meniqueen (9) Old Blade
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 12

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

(9) KING ACE has put in three very consistent runs since returning from nine months off, all of them at class and distance, in good times and finishing close. He is not the best of starters but can sit handy or go back and run on and he could well be peaking here. A winner of two from five so far, (10) LUMINOUS QUEEN comes up in class after scoring over 1300M on November 27th when sitting handy and then running on. It’s her first time over this trip but and she draws a little wide, but she should measure up in this company. So too should (6) YELLOW CAT. She’s won two in a row to be rapidly promoted to this class, but she made all to win at this distance in a fast time at class 5 level at her latest outing and from a good draw and under a light weight, she will be in this. (8) GANGSEO PRINCESS and (1) GEOSEN DOLPUNG are others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) King Ace (10) Luminous Queen (6) Yellow Cat (8) Gangseo Princess
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(2) CHEONJI ULLIM is set to be a warm favourite here. He was a good winner over 1400M at class 5 level two starts back before going down to a very narrow defeat on his first crack at this class on December 4th. He ran fairly for 4th on his only previous try at this distance, draws well and despite coming up in the weights, he is the one to beat. (11) SPEEDY ROOKIE is the logical second choice. He is yet to win but has six top-three finishes and enters on a consistent run of form at class and distance. He carries plenty of weight, but it would be no surprise to see him there or thereabouts again. (9) ELITE LINE is a class and distance winner as recently as October. He was a touch disappointing at his latest start but trialed well on Christmas Eve and should be in the hunt here. (10) CHOEGO RACE and (8) BRAVO SOCKS among others with at least placing chances.

Selections(2) Cheonji Ullim (11) Speedy Rookie (9) Elite Line (10) Choego Race
Next Best8, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 10

Seoul Race 8: Class 2 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

(2) MIGHTY SOO returned from six months out to run a fair 5th over 1400M at this class in November. Before the layoff, he had run well at both class and distance and has beaten plenty of today’s rivals. He should have come on for that last run draws well and has every chance. Big danger and possible favourite is (12) HEUNGROK DAEBU. He is a winner of two from his last three including and all the way score over this distance on December 5th at class 3 level. This is undoubtedly harder, and the draw is not kind, but he comes down significantly in the weights and should go close. (8) MUNHAK KING is a two-time winner over this distance at class 3 level and comes in here having beaten plenty of these on his way to 2nd place at this class and distance on December 4th. He carries the same weight today, Munro climbs aboard, and there is plenty to like. (4) JOUINIGA was 4th in that same race and can aim to match that here while (3) BLUE CHITON is another in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Mighty Soo (12) Heungrok Daebu (8) Munhak King (4) Jouniga
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start9, 10, 11, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Big field to round out the day and (1) MENI CHAMP probably warrants favourite status based on his 2nd place in a fast time over class and distance on December 5th with a few of these behind him. He gets a great draw on this inside and can potentially go all the way here. (4) MAX RUN comes up in class but significantly down in weight having won two of her latest three. She has been posting consistently fast times and has every chance of measuring up in this company. Draw a line through the latest effort from (3) ROCKUI JEWANG when he was first-up for six months over 1800M. Today may suit better and he has undoubted ability. (10) DREAM PO RE comes in with recent form reading well and along with (2) MIREU STORM is another with placing hopes.

Selections(1) Meni Champ (4) Max Run (3) Rockui Jewang (10) Dream Po Re
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 11, 12, 13