Seoul

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
(more…)

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

Filly & Mare Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (December 19)

Last Sunday Heat Yegam confirmed his position as Champion three-year-old colt with victory in the Minister’s Cup. This week it’s the turn of the fillies to finish up their Triple Crown. It will be one of Luna Stakes winner Raon Pink or Oaks winner Choegang Black, both of whom return to face each other again in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup over 2000M. One race earlier, the older fillies and mares get to run for a big prize in the Jeju Governor’s Cup with Raon First set to be a hot favourite. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 7 races from 11:10 to 16:40. All betting locations are open however attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app. Here are the previews:

The finish to the Korean Oaks. Choegang Black, Raon Pink and Serve Ace return to Seoul for the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all but one racing for the very first time. And among those first-timers there was a stand-out trial performance from (8) JAY PHOENIX. From the widest gate he cruised to the lead and continued that cruise to cross the line a full two-seconds faster than the next home. If he brings that form to the races, he wins. The sole entrant with previous experience came close on debut. After winning a trial (10) BLACK MASK was sent off hot favourite on October 16th but ultimately came home in 2nd place. Nevertheless, it was a quick time, and he comes in after nine weeks off, ready to be in the mix again. Back to the trial videos for the rest and (2) NERWOOLI won his heat in good fashion while there were also encouraging performances from (7) BURUI SINHWA and (11) HAPPY MIX.

Selections(8) Jay Phoenix (10) Black Mask (2) Nerwooli (7) Burui Sinhwa
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

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

Juvenile maidens and (9) ILNYEOM CHEONHA will be favourite. Having run well in a trial, he was 2nd on debut on November 21st at this distance, overcoming a slightly sluggish start to run on well. It was a fair time and faster than any of the others recorded on their respective debuts and he is the one to beat. (7) RAON THE FIGHTING also ran 3rd on debut on November 19th. He sat behind the pace and ran on pleasingly enough and should have come on for the run. There are three first time starters and the one which will attract the most interest is (5) GEUMA UNO. He was an on-pace 2nd in his heat in a fair time and the Kim Young-kwan/You Hyun-myung connection will ensure he is well backed first-up. (6) ALL CROWN and (10) PLAY THE INDY both hinted on debut that they have some potential and can also be in the mix for minor money.

Selections(9) Ilnyeom Cheonha (7) Raon The Fighting (5) Geuma Uno (6) All Crown
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

Filly maidens only here and it could be a chance for (6) DELPHINI to get her first win. She returned from six months out to run a pleasing 3rd over this distance in a similar race on November 21st, running on as is her style. From a nice central draw and with Munro aboard, there isn’t too much to fear here.  Vying with her for favourite status will be (8) GALSAEK HYANGGI. She’s shown improvement over three outings to date, culminating in 3rd place on her first try over today’s trip on November 20th when she went back and ran on strong. She’ll be in the finish again. (1) FLEX QUEEN recorded her best finish to date at her latest start when 2nd over this distance. She led that day and from the same inside gate today will surely aim to do the same. (7) EAST MAGIC and (5) WONDERFUL NIKIYA are among a few others with at least placing chances.

Selections(6) Delphini (8) Galsaek Hyanggi (1) Flex Queen (7) East Magic
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 11

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

Tricky race. (5) DAEHO NURI has finished no better than 5th in four attempts so far but he has run the kind of times that ought to be competitive here. From a good draw, he can sit handy and run on and this could be his day. (8) ALIVE STAR returns to action for the first time since May. He is the only previous winner in the field and while being first-up in thirty-two weeks is obviously going to pose some questions, he looked well enough when running 3rd in a late November trial. If he is at his best, he can win this. (3) ARTIE’S GAL races for the first time in even longer. His best result was a 3rd place on debut at this distance in a slow race more than a year ago, but he won a trial in November leading all the way, has a good draw and a featherweight to carry. (14) GREEN SPEED has already finished as runner-up at this distance. She led for much of that race so may need a touch of luck early from the widest gate, but she can be considered. (2) DOCTOR TANGO another placing chance.

Selections(5) Daeho Nuri (8) Alive Star (3) Artie’s Gal (14) Green Speed
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 12, 14

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

(5) SAENAE HWANGJE showed improvement when stepped up to two-turns for the first time on November 14th, settling handy and running on for 2nd place. The time wasn’t fast, but he won’t need to go much faster to win this. (7) VIVA CHAMPION comes up to this trip for the first time after a couple of creditable performances at shorter. He has run on well in his latest two and if he does the same today will run into some money. (10) RUNNING NUMBER ONE overcame a wide draw to finish 3rd in a plodding affair at this distance on November 27th. That’s two places in his last three starts, both coming at this distance, and he should be in the finish again. (3) SEMYEONG CAPTAIN was 5th behind Running Number One at his latest outing and can aim to match or better today. (1) ONE PUTT always three-putts the start but usually runs on and should pass plenty in a race where a double-bogey will be enough to get on the leaderboard.

Selections(5) Saenae Hwangje (7) Viva Champion (10) Running Number One (3) Semyeong Captain
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(3) ADELE BOSS steps up in trip following a 3rd and a 5th in his latest two at 1000M and 1200M respectively. The latter time he had to deal with gate fourteen and wasn’t able to find a decent position whereas today, from a much better draw he can use his good start to get away well. He has claims. So too does (9) ONE RUSH, who has raced just twice but has a 5th and a 3rd with the latter being at this distance in a good time. She sat midfield and ran on that day and while she still draws wide, in the smaller field, should be able to find a position early and run on again. (1) DAEJI SPECIAL ran into 3rd place at 1000M at his latest start. Although a previous try at 1200M didn’t go especially well, from a nice draw he can be considered for improvement here. (6) YEONSEUNG GLORY improved to 2nd at his most recent start over this distance and along with (5) MONEY BAG, warrants consideration for a place.

Selections(3) Adele Boss (9) One Rush (1) Daeji Special (6) Yeonseung Glory
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 9
(more…)

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 11)

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

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. At least three of those with experience, however, look promising. We’ll tentatively side with (5) ONE MORE RUSH, who has raced twice for 7th and 3rd both at this distance and in similar times. She’ll sit handy to the pace here and today could be her day. It’s a toss-up between her and (3) EUNHYE SERVE. She came from midfield to run 4th on her debut on October 23rd, finishing off very nicely indeed. She draws better today and if she can get in a more forward positon early, could be hard to beat. (10) RAON THE WILD improved on his second start and while he draws wide this time, should benefit from that experience and can improve again. Among the first-timer starters, (6) POWER K and (1) NAOL ACE are likely to be the best supported.

Selections(5) One More Rush (3) Eunhye Serve (10) Raon The Wild (6) Power K
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 11

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

More juvenile maidens but just two race for the first time. (8) WOW WOW has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far, both at 1000M and both times settling midfield and running on strong. The extra furlong can suit here and he looks the one to beat. (14) NAMSAN HORANGI draws the car-park but might like the additional furlong that he has compared with his 5th place on debut when he ran on pleasingly. He may need some luck in running early but expect some improvement nonetheless. (5) HANGANG BOSS also finished off well when 4th on debut over 1000M on November 6th. Among the fancied ones, he gets the best of the draw and can go closer here. (12) FLYING GOLD was similarly strong late on at his first time of asking and along with (7) SPUTNIK are among others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Wow Wow (14) Namsan Horangi (5) Hangang Boss (12) Flying Gold
Next Best7, 13
Fast Start8, 10, 13, 14

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

Filly maidens here. Having run well for 3rd on debut, (5) GOLD KAISER had no luck from gate fourteen at her second start on November 7th, using up plenty of energy to find a promising positon before quickly laying out and weakening. From a much better draw today and with Moon Se Young climbing aboard, she is worth taking note of. (3) DIA POWERCAT’s previous attempt at this distance didn’t go too well but she looks ready for another crack following a solid 3rd place over 1000M in a good time on October 30th. From a good draw she should be in this a long way. (9) ARCH MEMORY was doing her best work late on when debuting in 4th place over 1000M on November 13th. Up in trip here should suit and she can go closer. (11) SPEED GALLOP and (6) MAGIC JUDE are others who can trouble the judges.

Selections(5) Gold Kaiser (3) Dia Powercat (9) Arch Memory (11) Speed Gallop
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8i

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

The form here is patchy to say the least. (12) GREAT EYE has stuttered a little in his latest two but has shown ability at this distance especially when 2nd three starts back, coming from off the pace. The wide draw isn’t too much of a concern and while Moon Se-young will have had swifter conveyances, this may be another winner. (4) V QUEEN has been consistent if unspectacular across eight starts to date but she has registered the fastest time of any of these at the distance and from a good draw should be in contention here. (9) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN returned from ten months out to run a creditable 7th of twelve at 1200M on November 6th. She should have come on for that run and can improve here. (5) WONDERFUL CAT and (2) SONGAM PLAYER are others in the hunt.

Selections(12) Great Eye (4) V Queen (9) Sojunghan Dangsin (5) Wonderful Cat
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 12
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Seoul & Busan Champion Juvenile Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 5)

It’s Champion Juvenile Sunday at Busan where the Korean Breeders’ Cup over 1400 will decide the best two-year-old of 2021. Twelve go in the race which is the final one on Busan’s seven-race card which runs from 11:10 to 16:40. There are ten races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations within Korea will be open with a cap of 80% of indoor capacity. Attendance must be booked in advance through the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 are required. Here are the previews of every race:

Yeonngwanguilegend is among the favourites for the Breeders’ Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with just two racing for the first time. (6) JAY TROSS just came up short when favourite on what was her second start on October 30th at this distance when 2nd all the way around and just couldn’t get to the winner. The time was good, and she will be red-hot favourite to get it right this time. The main danger may be one of the debut-makers. (2) GLOBAL FIRST ran a solid trial and while that was back in September and she needs a run to avoid having to qualify again, a couple of others in this race also went in that heat and she handily dispatched them. From a good draw, she can go close. (8) CASH BACK was significant improver at start two on November 7th when leading early and ultimately finishing 3rd over this distance in a decent time and won’t need to improve too much to place here. (9) G STAR has been solid if unspectacular across two outings so far and beat a couple of these at his latest appearance. (3) ACE PLAN another who can improve.

Selections(6) Jay Tross (2) Global First (8) Cash Back (9) G Star
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

Juvenile maidens and seven of the twelve race for the very first time and it is from those debut-makers that the top picks come from. (11) GREEN CHEETAH put in a very good trial, running seemingly within himself with just a little effort asked for towards the end. It was a fast time and while he draws wide, Franco Da Silva in the saddle should be able to help him overcome that and win. (2) LEGEND NUMBER ONE was a bit slow to begin in his trial but ran on very pleasingly, under hands and heels, crossing the line 4th in a fair time. He draws well and if he gets away smoothly, rates as a chance. (5) RAON THE TANK too wasn’t the quickest out of the traps in his trial but made good ground later and was unhurried in his finish. (10) SUPER CRACK beat a couple of his when trialing fairly in November, an improvement on his first qualification heat. You Hyun-myung climbs aboard for the race and he has placing chances. Among the experienced ones, (8) MONEY CASE is the clear pick having finished 4th on debut back in August. He has been back to trial since and can benefit from his experience here.

Selections(11) Green Cheetah (2) Legend Number One (5) Raon The Tank (10) Super Crack
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

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

Several of these raced one another at class and distance on November 7th. (2) NUMBER ONE TARGET finished the best of them, recovering from a bump at the start and running on to finish a good 2nd, her best finish to date. We’ll stick with her to beat them again and this time go one better. It’s probably that (3) RUBY CAT will be favourite to overturn the form from that day though. She has steadily improved across four starts today and was 3rd in that November 7th race. She was on the other end of that bump with Number One Target at the start but recovered well. If her improvement continues on the same trajectory that it has done so far from start to start, then she can be winning here. (1) NO SMALL SUN comes back up in trip following consecutive 4th place finishes over 1000M and from the inside gate can be a danger. (11) MORNING PEARL ran a much-improved 2nd last time out and along with (10) EUNHYE CHUNGMAN, 5th in that November 7th race, is to be considered for a place.

Selections(2) Number One Target (3) Ruby Cat (1) No Small Sun (11) Morning Pearl
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 10

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

(8) B. K. HANA ran a strong 2nd in a fast time over 1000M at her latest start on November 5th when handy and running on. She ran 5th at this distance on debt in August before finishing well back in a good race in September. She is in shallower eaters here and from the inside gate and with Perovic on her back, she is the one to beat. (1) HAEGA TTEUGO is one of two first-time starts in the race and seems to have potential. It took him two goes to qualify but he won the second of those attempts, breaking fairly before taking the lead and running on in a good time. If he brings that form to the races, then he can go close. (6) NEW CROWN has mixed his form across seven starts so far, but was a strong 3rd at his latest appearance, running on well from midfield. A repeat will see him in the finish today. (11) GEUMA STARLET and (5) HOT PLAY are others in the frame.

Selections(8) B. K. Hana (1) Haega Tteugo (6) New Crown (11) Geuma Starlet
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start5, 10, 11, 12

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

(3) GUITARIST beat a couple of these on his way to 2nd place at this class and distance on October 30th. It was his best performance to date and fastest time of any of these that have tried the distance and should be enough to give him favourite status here. If he fails to arrive in tune then (4) THAT’S MY BOY and (2) JEOLMEUN YOUNGUNG, who came home 3rd and 4th in that October race, look set to be the best place to take advantage. Both came form off the pace that day to finish well and That’s My Boy is significantly better drawn this time around. If you don’t fancy that race very much, then (6) SANGSEUNG HAENGJIN and (5) SOUJU came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other over 1400M on November 6th and look the next best.

Selections(3) Guitarist (4) That’s My Boy (2) Jeolmeun Youngung (6) Sangseung Haengjin
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A very tricky race but something has to win. We’ll therefore take a chance on (2) YEONSEUNG BRAVO who, barring a dismal spin around 1400M two weeks ago, has been racing with some consistency recently. He has the fastest time of any of these at this distance and from a nice draw can get that latest run out of his system here. Probably favourite is (7) BARBELL STORM, who made a big step up to this trip at start number four on November 12th, having previously only raced over 1000M. He led into the home straight and ultimately came home 3rd in a run of merit and can have come on for that. Beating him that day was (10) SOL INVICTUS, who scored his best finish so far on his twentieth start. He might not have as much improvement in him as Barbell Storm but warrants some respect here. (4) SILVER LADY and (1) CHEONMA YEONGUNG are other placing hopes.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 4)

Racing on Saturday is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations throughout the country are open with an 80% indoor capacity cap. Attendance must be pre-booked through the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required. Here are the previews:

Seoul

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

Juvenile maidens with six of the twelve racing for the first time. (3) DUSON DRIVE has probably done enough to warrant favourite status after a 7th and a 6th in his first two outings, in fair times. He draws nicely, can be on pace and can win. (5) TITAN SOCKS debuted over 1200M scoring a decent enough 5th place having previously performed well in a trial when he led. Dropping back to 1000M and from a central gate, he should be on speed and can get closer today. (12) DOWN THE ZONE finished down the field on debut but her time measures up in this company and she can improve despite the wide draw. Among the debut-makers, (2) CHEONEUNCHONG won her trial and while the time wasn’t fast, she did nothing wrong and in a race as soft as this, she can have fair claims first up. (1) JEWELRY BEST another first-timer who could sneak some money.

Selections(3) Duson Drive (5) Titan Socks (12) Down The Zone (2) Cheoneunchong
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 10

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

(4) MEOTJIN GIROK has been getting closer across three starts so far culminating in a 3rd place ahead of a couple of these on his first try at this distance on November 6th when he sat handy and ran on. He draws nicely today and looks the one to beat. (9) MUNHAK FOREST has been getting closer with a 3rd and a 2nd in his latest two at 1200M and 1300M respectively, leading much of the way both times. Expect him to be on pace again and to be in this for a long time. (3) THUNDER HORSE ran 4th to Munhak Forest’s 3rd when they met on November 6th at this distance. While he is yet to finish in the top two, he has no fewer than seven top0five finishes from his twelve starts and can aim for another today. (1) P N S HER never got going over 1000M last time but on her second start managed a 5th over this distance. She draws much better today and can improve. (7) ORGALIM, another on-pacer, is among others with placing chances.

Selections(4) Meotjin Girok (9) Munhak Forest (3) Thunder Horse (1) P N S Her
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

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

(2) POSA POSA has finished in 5th place on four out of five starts now but today lines up in possibly the softest company he has faced so far. He enters here having finished 5th at his latest start when he came from a wide gate to sit handy and run on. He draws better today and has every chance of overturning the form on (4) KING CRUSH, who came from even wider that day to run 3rd. That marked a significant uptick in form at his fourth start and while he gives 5kg to Posa Posa again, has strong claims and will probably start as favourite. In a race where the exposed form is not strong, a chance has to be given to the only first-time starter, (1) HEUNGHAENG DAEBAK. He led his trial, ultimately finishing in 3rd place in a fair time and from the inside gate has every chance of going well first-up. (9) PURGE QUEEN and (6) TK PLEX are others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Posa Posa (4) King Crush (1) Heunghaeng Daebak (9) Purge Queen
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

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

(2) PEPE RUN came from off the pace two starts back to run a very good 4th at this distance in a good time. While he was a little one-paced in 6th at his latest start on November 20th, the margins weren’t huge and from a good draw and Victoire taking the mount, he has fair claims here. (11) FAST TRACK has finished off his races well so far, including a 5th over 1200M at his most recent on October 24th. The draw won’t be a problem and the slight step up in trip may well work in his favour. (9) GABO SARANGHAE has the fastest time among those who have tackled this distance before and she comes in off a good 4th at her last start. She can be on pace here and be in this a long way. (8) SINJURYU and (10) LAGERTHA others who have to potential to place.

Selections(2) Pepe Run (11) Fast Track (9) Gabo Saranghae (8) Sinjuryu
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start1, 9, 10, 11

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

(4) JOEUN GWANGYE is yet to win but has seven top-five finished from ten attempts so far and enters following a close at hand 4th in a fast time over 1400M on October 30th. A previous attempt at this distance two starts back saw him lead and fade but he looks ready for another crack here and should be the one to beat. (8) RUFFIAN PARK is another maiden with plenty of money finishes in his record. His recent efforts have all been at this distance and he should be there or thereabouts again today. (3) AMAZING WHIZ does have winning experience albeit all the way back in February. He tackles two turns for the first time having run on nicely for 3rd at this class over 1300M last time out and looks a good placing shout here. The form falls off a bit after those three with (2) E STRIKE and (1) CHEONDUNG CAT perhaps possible to make a case for.

Selections(4) Joeun Gwangye (8) Ruffian Park (3) Amazing Whiz (2) E Strike
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5
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