Seoul

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
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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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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 27)

Saturday is President’s Cup Eve in Seoul and there are 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. The feature class 1 event is the final race on the card and is a class 1 handicap over 1800M, where the old guard of Monhak Chief and Cheongdam Dokki will attempt to put the upstart Iron Socks in his place. All betting locations are open with an attendance cap of 80% of indoor capacity. Attendance must be pre-booked in advance using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 is required.

Moonhak Chief goes in Seoul’s Saturday feature (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens with all but one of the twelve racing for the very first time. Several of the newcomers look competitive but we will side with the one who has experience. (11) RAON THE JET debuted on October 3rd and having settled midfield, ran on to finish 4th in a fair time.  Both the runner-up and the 3rd place-getter that day have since gone on to win their next starts and Raon The Jet can frank that race’s form here. (4) CUPID VOW was an all the way trial winner in a fair time on October 29th. He draws well to lead again and looks set to be the main danger. (5) GOOD NISEN ran 2nd in that trial having sat handy throughout and he too should be there or thereabouts again. Among the newcomers, (6) EAGLE POINT recorded the fastest time in trials and while it was a slightly wetter track than most faced, that alone is enough to being him into the calculations. (1) THUNDER NURI another who could go well first up.

Selections(11) Raon The Jet (4) Cupid Vow (5) Good Nisen (6) Eagle Point
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 12

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

Juvenile filly maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. We’re going to side with experience, though. (11) HWASUBOON has raced twice finishing 2nd on debut and then 3rd, both of them at this distance in good times. The draw is not ideal here but she should be able to overcome that and should have too much. (8) LUCKY INDY ran well on debut but then improved for 3rd place at start number two at this distance on October 24th, leading for much of the way. She should be on pace again and has every chance of going close. (12) BURUI KKOT similarly showed promise on debut when 5th in a decent time at the distance. She can come on for that run and while she draws the worst of all, can run on strong here. Maintaining the theme of the wide gates, (10) GREENBACK won a trial before putting in two creditable performances in the summer. She races for the first time since August and can go well first-up today. The first-timers don’t exactly leap out from the trial reports but (2) CUPID JUMBO perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(11) Hwasuboon (8) Lucky Indy (12) Burui Kkot (10) Greenback
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 11

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

Competitive maiden. (14) MIGHTY SUNSHINE beat several of these by a decent margin on his way to 2nd place at this distance in a fair time on October 30th. He draws the car park today but he settled midfield and ran on last time so as long as he doesn’t find himself with too much to do, he can win here. (6) APPLE MINT came home in 3rd place that day. He was first-up following five months out and should have come on for that run. He has Perovic aboard and with the better draw could overturn the form on Mighty Sunshine. (2) YESULIYA steps up in trip for the first time following a solid 3rd place over 1000M on October 23rd. That was an uptick in form and from a good gate, he can continue to make progress. (5) PRINCESS DAY ran 4th in the October 30th race and along with (4) FIRST ROAD, is another in the placing frame

Selections(14) Mighty Sunshine (6) Apple Mint (2) Yesuliya (5) Princess Day
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Disregard the latest effort by (8) JEONGSEONG DAERO when he returned lame. He has been back in work for more than a month now and his form prior to that setback was good over the shorter distances. He finished off his races well and today’s extended trip may suit. Only four of these have raced at the distance before and (10) RUNNING NUMBER ONE probably has the right to be favourite based on his 2nd place at it two starts back when he ran on from midfield. It wasn’t a fast time but he should benefit from that experience and has every chance here. (9) HWARYEOHAN MISO has hinted at ability across three starts so far including a 2nd place two starts back at 1200M. He too has finished off races pleasingly enough and can adapt to two-turn racing. (2) MAGIC JOY and (1) SEONBONG GOLD others with minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Jeongseong Daero (10) Running Number One (9) Hwaryeohan Miso (2) Magic Joy
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 10, 11, 12

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

The only filly in the race is (7) JOYFUL K and she comes in having run a close 3rd over class and distance at her latest start on October 30th when she overcame gate ten to sit handy and run on. She was beaten just under a length by (10) BEST TAP but gets the better of the draw today and can overturn that form. Best Tap is a big danger. He ran 2nd in that race continuing his consistent run of form at the distance and registering another good time. He is tactically versatile and won’t need to lead here so the draw shouldn’t be too much of a disadvantage. (9) YELLOW CAT comes up in class following a good win over 1300M on October 10th when she came from well off the pace to run on very strongly. She carries a nice light weight here and should measure up in this company. (12) BYEOLBIT BOSEOK is yet to win in seven attempts but has five top-four finishes and having overcome wide draws before, can go close again. (3) DAEWANGU another in the hunt in a very competitive affair.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 13)

There are 10 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:45 to 18:00. All betting locations across the country, including the three racecourses, are open at limited capacity. Attendance must be pre-booked using the MyCard app and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 are required. No walk-up admission is available. Here are the previews:

It’s autumn in Seoul

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

Juvenile maidens get the weekend underway in the capital and five of the eleven are racing for the first time. Much of the experience is promising though, including top pick and probable favourite (3) DUSON FANTASTIC. He finished in the pack on his first start in September, but the performance was good, and he showed solid improvement to then run 2nd on his reappearance on October 16th. He is a front-runner; he draws well here, and he can win. Among those challenging him for the early speed will be (4) RAON THE DASH. After winning a July trial, she has finished 5th in both race starts to date, both in quick times. Look for her to be challenging for better here. (9) COMPLETE LUCKY significantly improved at start number two with an on-pace 3rd a month ago. Expect her to be in this a long way. (1) CHAMP STYLE has run on well in both starts to date and while she may want a little further, she can’t be ruled out from the inside gate. As for the first-time starters (2) SMART BYEOL improved across two trials and perhaps has the best chance of making an immediate impact.

Selections(3) Duson Fantastic (4) Raon The Dash (9) Complete Lucky (1) Champ Style
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

Juvenile filly maidens with five of the ten racing for the very first time. It’s very hard to go past (6) ICHEON ARCH. Having only just scraped through her trial, she was totally unfancied on debut on October 2nd but ran around in 2nd place the entire way behind a good winner in a fast time. If she runs to anything near that today, then she should win. Frankly it’s also hard to look past (7) MAGIC JUDE for 2nd. She’s raced twice and finishes 6th twice in fair times for the respective conditions. She draws better today and won’t need to improve much to get on the board. Of the first timers, (3) NAOL CHAMP beat a couple of these in an October trial when handy to the lead early and just getting a little tired towards the end. If she’s trained on since, then she should have a placing chance first up. (1) WONDERFUL KITTY and (2) GEUMA WITTY others who may have a say.

Selections(6) Icheon Arch (7) Magic Jude (3) Naol Champ (1) Wonderful Kitty
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

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

Fillies only here. The logical pick is (8) GEUMGUKHWA, who seems to be working towards a win especially going on her latest two outings, especially her last start 2nd at this distance when she ran on strong from midfield to be beaten only by a good winner in a decent time. In this company she may well be ridden further forward earlier, and she has solid claims. (9) EAST MAGIC returned from almost eight months off to run an improved 4th over 1200M on October 9th. She should have come on for that run and the additional half-furlong today may well suit. (2) LUCKY CROWN has made all three starts so far at 1000M and at the latest of those was an improved 3rd in a fast time. She draws well to get on the pace here and is firmly in the hunt. (7) ELITE RULES came home 5th behind East Magic at her latest start and should be competitive again here while (5) LAGERTHA is the sole runner to have winning experience. It came at this distance four starts back and while she hasn’t done much in her other outings, that alone is another to bring her into the calculations in this kind of race.

Selections(8) Geumgukhwa (9) East Magic (2) Lucky Crown (7) Elite Rules
Next Best5, 12
Fast Start2, 8, 12, 13

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

Not the greatest of maidens here with none of the fourteen coming in having finished any better than 6th at their respective latest starts. (7) DESK TAP is the one to beat. He enters with the greatest consistency having finished in the top five on five of eight outings so far and can step up to 1300M for the first time with confidence. He has the fastest star in this field and from a decent enough draw and with David Breux taking over in the saddle, he can win. Draw a line through the latest offering from (12) REAL CONCORD when she was hampered early and in general got a bad trip. Instead go on her 2nd place two starts back at this distance as well as her 5th place the time before when she beat a couple of these, and she figures to be the main danger. Get the ruler out again and draw another line through the last showing of (3) MAIN OF KING. He comes back in trip today, draws well and comes down 4kg in the weights with an apprentice up and can go much better. (13) WONDERFUL CAT has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and while it was some time ago, that alone means she shouldn’t be completely ruled out in this company. (11) BARAMGWA HAMKKE another with placing chances.

Selections(7) Desk Tap (12) Real Concord (3) Main Of King (13) Wonderful Cat
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another maiden where the form going in is distinctly average. That makes (10) SUPER BIRD a standout on the basis of her runner-up finish at her latest start on October 9th when she came from well off the pace to run on strong over 1200. She ran 3rd on her only previous try at this distance and looks to be the one to beat here. (14) K N PARK has only raced the once and should have come on for that 6th place finish over 1200M back in August He draws badly here but looks worthy of consideration in a weak race. (3) GREAT EYE has mixed his form across five starts so far but draws nicely here and should be in the mix. He got way too far back last time but should have an easier run of it here. (12) GABO SARANGHAE has mixed her form but is capable of running good times and along with (1) VIENTO, is another in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Super Bird (14) K N Park (3) Great Eye (12) Gabo Saranghae
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 12, 14

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

(2) RAON CHAMPSELY returned from five months off on October 3rd and looked very much as tough she needed the race, knocking up very quickly and finishing last in a fast race at 1300M. She is way better than that though and should come in today race fit and ready to win from a nice draw. (6) JISANGUN comes up in class after an all the way win over 1200M on October 16th. He had been working up to that win for a while and it was a dominant one in a time faster than any of today’s rivals have achieved at the distance so he certainly should measure up class wise. (7) GEUMA FLAWLESS is yet to win in eleven attempts but has been consistently close with six top-three finishes. He generally settles back and runs on and will coming on strong late once more. (3) DREAM PELLA races for the first time since winning over this distance at class 6 level in May. He looked well in a trial three weeks ago and has every chance of going well first-up. (8) WOL YEONG I another in the placing hunt.

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Korea Derby Day 2021: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (November 7)

It’s Korean Derby day at last! The latest Derby in history goes to post at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon with race fans in attendance (attendance must be pre-booked using the My Card app – there is no walk-up admission). Heat Yegam won the KRA Cup Mile, the first leg of the Triple Crown, at Busan last month, and will be favourite again. A full horse-by-horse preview of the Derby will be up soon but in the meantime, here is the full race by race preview of the 10-race card at Seoul (10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (7 races from 11:10 to 16:40):

Heat Yegam won the KRA Cup Mile last month (Pic: KRA)

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

The juvenile maidens get us underway with five of the eleven racing for the first time. And it’s one of those debut-makers who is set to be favourite. (1) PINE FARM first trialed up in May in good style but didn’t make it to the track that time around. He requalified in mid-October, running fast time behind Moonhak Chief and from a good gate should be on pace from the start and can lead all the way. The big danger has some experience. That’s (7) RAON THE ARIA, who was anonymous in her trial but debuted well with a strong 4th p lace at this distance on October 2nd when she sat handy all the way. She won’t need to improve much to be right in this. (10) NO SMALL SUN was a decent 4th on what was her second start on October 10th and if she can continue to make progress here can go close. Returning to the debut-makers, (4) NAMSAN HORANGI impressed when winning an October trial in a fair time and has every chance of going well first-up. (2) P N S LIN didn’t do much wrong in his heat and has an outside chance of sneaking into the money.

Selections(1) Pine Farm (7) Raon The Aria (10) No Small Sun (4) Namsan Horangi
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 10

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

Maiden juveniles start the card at Busan with seven of the twelve racing for the very first time. There is some ability among the experienced ones though, so we will side with (5) MAHAMERU, who after an encouraging trial, ran 6th on debut in September in a fast time on an admittedly wet track. He should have come on for that run and Perovic climbing aboard is a plus. (6) GREAT CHEONGHO was a good 4th on debut just two weeks ago when prominent throughout. It was a fair time on a dry track, and he can go closer today. (7) KING SATURDAY is perhaps the standout of the first timers. While indifferent in his mandatory trial in September, he was sent through a voluntary one just last week and significantly improved, posting a fast time and leading for much of the way. So long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can go well. (3) PLAY THE INDY didn’t do much wrong in what was a slow trial and could also play a part. The wildcard is (12) ANASTASIA, who raced twice uncompetitively in summer but recently went through two trials, winning the latter.

Selections(5) Mahameru (6) Great Cheongho (7) King Saturday (3) Play The Indy
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

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

A big field of maiden fillies and plenty look to have the potential to make the breakthrough. (14) GOLD KAISER is going to need to navigate her way from the widest gate, but if she can do that then she looks to have solid claims. Having won a September trial, she ran 3rd on debut over this distance in a fair time, having been handy early. If the draw is a concern, then (5) RUBY CAT is the one to be on. She has improved across three starts so far, culminating in 4th place last time out over 1300M. She can sit just off the pace here and it could be her day. (12) V QUEEN came home 5th in the same race in what was an uptick in form. She has a good finish on her so the draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can get even closer today. (3) SMART HIGH and (1) FLYING BARBIE are among others with placing potential.

Selections(14) Gold Kaiser (5) Ruby Cat (12) V Queen (3) Smart High
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 14

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (7) ANNIKA GIRL stepped up to this distance at her latest start and ran a fair 5th place in a reasonable time in what was a tougher race than this. She sat handy that day and ran on and in this company, has every chance of breaking through. (1) DARI TTEUNI is the only one to have won a race and then alone brings her into contention. The victory was in May, and she hasn’t looked like repeating, however, she did beat a couple of these on her way to 6th place over 1300M two starts back. (12) WORLD FLOWER stepped up to this distance on October 8th and came from off the pace to run a useful 6th place in a fair time and a repeat of that run would be competitive here. (14) BAEK SEOL QUEEN was disappointing at her latest start in August but had previously registered some decent efforts. She trialed up a couple of weeks ago looking well and may have benefitted from the twelve weeks off. (8) USEUNG GANGJA is another in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Annika Girl (1) Dari Tteuni (12) World Flower (14) Baek Seol Queen
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

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

Another big field and a competitive race. (9) ROAD ACE has been working towards a win with steady improvement over his three starts so far, all of them at 1000M and culminating in a 2nd place last time out in a good time. He steps up in trip for the first time but should be on pace and can win. The presence of Moon Se Young aboard (5) KOREA GIJEOK may make the Hansen gelding favourite. He’s scoreless following fifteen attempts but enters in good form with a 2nd and a 4th from his latest two appearances, both at today’s distance and coming from off the pace. He can go close again. (6) DOUBLE TAKE too comes in with recent form reading positively. She comes in off a last start 4th when settling midfield at this trip and Munro stays aboard today. (3) GEOSEN DOLPUNG steps up to this trip for the first time. He was an on-pace 3rd in a fair time over 1200M on his last outing in September and will be expected to show the way again here. (11) POSA POSA perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(9) Road Ace (5) Korea Gijeok (6) Double Take (3) Geosen Dolpung
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 13

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

(7) VICTOR BASIUM is an intriguing entry here. He has only raced once, back in May, but he raced well, finishing in 4th place in a respectable time over the five furlongs. He trialed up smartly two weeks ago and in shallow waters here, has good claims first-up. (9) WONDERFUL REALTY comes out on top in plenty of indicators in this race. He the fastest finish on him as well as the fastest time at this distance. He comes in off a good class and distance 3rd place on October 1st and while the draw isn’t the best, he should be going close. (6) RAPIDO QUEEN has led both her latest starts at 1300M and 1400M before finishing back in the pack. The slight drop back in trip may be in her favour here and she should enter the calculations. (5) HAEUNDAE BLUE and (12) MYEONGSEONG CHARGE among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(7) Victor Basium (9) Wonderful Realty (6) Rapido Queen (5) Haeundae Blue
Next Best12, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

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

(2) JANGSAN LASER returned to make his second start a full nine months after his first and it proved successful as he came from midfield to score over 1200M on October 3rd. As a result, he comes up in class but neither that, nor the step up in trip should be a problem and he can make it two in a row here. The main danger is (5) BEOLMAL DAEJANG. He comes in having posted two excellent times at this distance in his latest two outings, which ended in 4th and a very close 2nd. He comes up slightly in the weights today but has very solid claims. (3) COOL PRINCESS comes up in class following a win at this distance on October 2nd. She will need to improve on that performance but has drawn very nicely to lead and can measure up. (4) FIGHTING NOW has plenty of class and distance experience and along with (11) GRAY CAT is another with at least placing chances.

Selections(2) Jangsan Laser (5) Beolmal Daejang (3) Cool Princess (4) Fighting Now
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Small field of fillies here and after a string of near-misses, (7) NEW LUX should be winning. Two starts back she ran 3rd at class and distance in a super time on an admittedly wet track, continuing her consistent run of form. At her latest she was 5th over 1800M. She likes to sit handy or midfield and should have too much for these at the business end of the race. (1) GOLD LUCK comes up to the mile for the first time. She has got caught a bit far back in a couple of her latest starts but from a good draw on the inside this time, coupled with the additional distance to play with, she may push the favourite close. (8) TAMNA HWANGHU came from well off the place for a slashing 4th at class and distance on October 15th. She mixes her form but if she gets up a head of steam in the straight, she can run a few of these down. (4) QUEEN OF HEARTS and (6) GREAT GO are others with money chances.

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