Seoul

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Cheongdam Dokki, Morfhis, Dia Road, Dokki Blade – Race-By-Race Preview (April 25)

There is a treat in store in the very final race of the weekend as Cheongdam Dokki faces off with Morfhis over 1400M. The pair have the likes of Dia Road and Do Kki Blade also in attendance in what should be a thrilling climax to Sunday’s card at Seoul (10 races from 1:45 to 18:00). There is also a card at Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00). Both racecourses are closed to spectators with only betting outlets in Jeju, Daegu, Gwangju, Cheonan and Changwon in operation. Here are the previews:

Cheongdam Dokki will attempt to fend off Morfhis and Do Kki Blade on Sunday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Three-year-old maidens get the day underway and (1) NORWAY THIRD will be a hot favourite She was a fair 2nd on her only start to date when she worked her way around from a wide draw. She’s got the inside today and should prove hard to beat. (7) NONGBON BADA was 3rd on her debut at this distance back in January and while she could only manage 9th on her return at 1200M in March, the margins weren’t huge and back down in trip today she should be a factor. (11) NAMSAN CHOCOLATE too can have her last start disregarded when keen, wide and hampered on a wet track and should be better today. The other dangers look set to come from the first timer starters. Of them, (12) DONGHAENG looks the best having led for much of the way around in her trial before running solid 2nd in a good time. (2) BIG ENERGY and (10) LEGEND BOURSE could also go well first-up.

Selections(1) Norway Third (7) Nongbon Bada (11) Namsan Chocolate (12) Donghaeng
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) THUNDER CHAMP is ready to win following two consecutive runner-up finishes. Last start he led easily over 1300M only to be grabbed on the line. He is nicely drawn again and should frank his good form with a maiden win. The betting market will no doubt reflect that so if you are inclined to take her on, (8) CINDERELLA may be the best chance. She was a good 2nd on debut and did little wrong when 6th over 1300M last start. She has her Prince Charming Antonio aboard and while she may well end up the ugly sister again, a trip to the ball doesn’t look to be too far in the future. (9) SMARTY TREM showed improvement on his second start and if he continues on that trajectory then he should be in the placing frame today. (1) BORAQUEEN and (2) JISANGUN are others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Thunder Champ (8) Cinderella (9) Smarty Trem (1) Boraqueen
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) GREEN POKJU gets her chance here after a good run last start when she stumbled at the stat before working forward to be in a handy spot on battled on gamely. She comes into barrier 1 today and has a great chance. So too does (2) RED PINE. She’s run on very well for 3rd and 2nd in her last two starts. She is back to 1200M where she hasn’t done her best work but she looks sure to make her presence felt here and will be running on strong. (13) RULES CLASS has been a touch inconsistent across four starts to date but did beat three of these on his way to 2nd place last start at this distance. He may need a bit of luck from the outside gate but should be in the mix. (3) BLUE HAMMER ran a good 3rd on debut settling well back before powering home. A repeat of that run, even without any improvement should see him firmly in the placing frame. (11) NUBIGO looks best of the rest.

Selections(1) Green Pokju (2) Red Pine (13) Rules Class (3) Blue Hammer
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 10, 13

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Ten of these have raced once before, one of them once and three of them not at all. The only previous winner in the field is the one with two starts under her belt, (14) APRIL QUEEN. She scored on debut over 1000M but failed to follow up when well back over today’s distance on her return. Nevertheless, her experience does earn her some respect and she should be competitive. The favourites though will come from the first-time starters. (8) B J MISS caught the eye in trials. She ran 2nd to an experienced filly in a fast time and if she brings anything like that form to the races then she will be hard to beat. (10) RUN FIGHTER won his trial, running through the line well and looks the primary danger. Completing the trio of newcomers with chances is (9) TRIPLE JILJU, who wile a little slower than the other pair, was on pace throughout his heat and stayed on nicely. Returning to the prior experience ones, (2) ALIVE STAR did little on debut but has since trialed up twice and looks set to improve.

Selections(8) B J Miss (10) Run Fighter (14) April Queen (2) Alive Star
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(5) GHOST VILLAGE comes in following a solid 3rd place behind Raon Beat and Alpha Dok over 1400M. He faces nothing like the pair of them today and could well be the one to beat. (9) JOEUN GWANGYE made up a lot of ground last start to run 3rd at this distance. Disregarding the start before that when he was an impeded by a horse who had dislodged its jockey, he is yet to finish outside the top five and should be in the mix here. (6) GEUMA FLAWLESS has been finishing off his races well and may appreciate the slight increase in trip today. And looks a placing line while (8) STAR RUSH ran his best race to date last start when 3rd over 1200M. His times haven’t been especially quick but he’s by no means alone in that in this company. (2) SARANG DAMOA and (3) ACHILLION are others in the frame.

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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 24)

There are behind closed doors meetings on Saturday at both Seoul (8 races from 11:00 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:30 to 16:50). The only locations open for betting within in Korea will be Jeju Racecourse as well as the Off-track betting centres in Daegu, Gwangju, Changwon and Cheonan. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A maiden to begin with. Five of the twelve are racing for the first time and one of them, (6) LUMINOUS QUEEN, may start as favourite. The Simon Pure filly ran 2nd in her only official trial in what was a creditable time under today’s top jockey. This isn’t the most intimidating race to begin in and she should go well. We’ll side with experience though and go with the consistent (2) THUNDER K. He’s finished in the top five on four of six outings to date and has run decent times at this distance. He is well drawn to lead, has Antonio Da Silva in the saddle for the first time, and could make his breakthrough today. (10) WONDERFUL MAMBO is the only one in the race to have a 2nd place finish to her name and that brings her into the calculations again. (9) REAL CONCORD, a stablemate of Luminous Queen, and (11) TORUK MAKTO are others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Thunder K (6) Luminous Queen (10) Wonderful Mambo (9) Real Concord
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Twelve previously unraced three-year-olds go around here so we need to head to the trial videos for clues. (5) KING ALLIE was the standout, leading his heat all the way to come home in the kind of time that would win plenty of races over this distance. He’s a half-brother to Stakes winning sprinter Do Kki Blade and will be favourite to score first-up here. (2) ANNIKA GIRL also put in a worthy trial performance, registering a quick time and the Kim Young-kwan/Djordje Perovic connection will ensure that she has plenty of backers. Her dam was a solid racehorse in Korea and produced a couple of other useful types. (6) GEUMBANJI came through the same trial as Annika Girl and acquitted herself well enough to have placing chances first-up. (4) GLORY SONG and (8) JJANG I are others who will be expected to get some support.

Selections(5) King Allie (2) Annika Girl (8) Jjang I (6) Geumbanji
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(8) DREAM KNOCK will be favourite. After running 5th on debut, he was a close 2nd when stepped up to this trip on March 14th. She has the fastest time of any of these at the distance by some margin and can settle handy here before running on strong. (1) TIFFANY BLUE ran on pleasingly enough on debut, making good ground late over the 1000M to finish 6th. She should have come on for that and the step up in trip can be to her benefit. Having run well over 1000M on debut, (10) STEAL THE FASHION didn’t do too much wrong when 6th over 1400M at start number two last month. Today’s distance should suit more and she can go close. (12) MODERN BEST and (7) WOL YEONG I came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other over this distance on March 21st and both look to have placing claims again.

Selections(8) Dream Knock (1) Tiffany Blue (10) Steal The Fashion (12) Moden Best
Next Best7, 14
Fast Start7, 10, 11, 14

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Twelve maiden fillies here. (4) WORLD REMEMBER and (3) QUEEN HARLEY came home 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced each other at 1200M on March 20th. For World Remember it was a big uptick in form following some very average performances, while for Queen Harley, it was her first ever race. There is an extra furlong to play with today and while both should be in the hunt, we’ll go with Queen Harley as having the more potential for improvement. (1) WHITE GALLOPER and (2) HAPPY WOMAN both come in having shown a bit of promise so far. White Galloper has tended to get caught back and wide but has still run on pleasingly enough. She has a much better draw today and can be in the mix. Happy Woman hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but has been competitive and can be so again. So too (6) STEADY WINNER, who has indeed been steady rather than spectacular across three starts to date and looks a place line here.

Selections(3) Queen Harley (4) World Remember (6) Steady Winner (1) White Galloper
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Very tricky race here. While (4) BEST STORM wasn’t hugely impressive when 7thover 1400M last start, we’ll drawn a line through that as he after a slow start he ended up well back in the field most of the way around. Two starts back he ran a strong 2nd to Spotlight and could be the one to beat here. (3) BRAVO MAY too was just average on his latest appearance but had previously put in some solid performances and should be going close here. Along with Best Storm, the only other horse in the field to have a runner-up finish to his name is (12) CONDOR YEOWANG. That was on her second – and most recent – start all the way back last August over 1000M. She looked well when running 2nd in a fast time in a trial at the start of this month and there’s no reason why she shouldn’t go well first-up against this limited set of opposition. (2) HIT ACE and (8) CHEONSANGSEONG are others who should be competing for at least minor money.

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00). Both meetings will be run behind closed doors but the Jeju Racecourse as well as OCBs at Daegu, Gwangju and Cheonan will be open for betting. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) CHEON CHONG gets his chance here following a good 3rd place over 1400M where he led until close to the line. He’s got a nice draw here to get prominent early and has a winning chance. (6) DASI DUSON has been competitive in her latest two. She was a close 6th at 1300M in January before running 2nd at this distance on March 7th, leading and battling on in the straight. She will challenge for the lead and has claims. (10) ILHYANG DALMA has placed twice from three starts and beat a number of these when 3rd last time out. She hung a little in the straight but finished off well enough and improvement is possible. (7) MISS YANGHO is the only previous winner in the field having struck three starts back at this distance in a good time. She was slow away last start but ran on well and can be considered. (11) GREEN FEELSTAR did nothing wrong when 4th on debut at the distance and is another with potential to improve.

Selections(3) Cheon Chong (6) Dasi Duson (10) Ilhyang Dalma (7) Miss Yangho
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 10, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (5) THE QUEEN JUSTICE ran a super race last start over this distance. She overcame the widest gate to run on speed the whole way around and only to go down narrowly into 2nd place. She gets a much better draw this time and should have the run of the race. (1) NOKRICHONG is the only previous winner in the field. That came last start when she was shuffled back in the field early but rallied to run home strongly. From barrier 1 she can sit handy and finish strongly again. (10) EUNHYE PADO’s latest effort was better than it appears on paper as she was slowly away and then hampered which resulted in her being back and wide before running on fairly. She has placed at this distance and shouldn’t be overlooked. (14) REMEMBER WHEN has run some useful enough times for this class at 1200M. Given the draw she may need some luck but could sneak a place. (12) DELPHINI was much improved second-up making up good ground and the additional half furlong may suit.

Selections(5) The Queen Justice (1) Nokrichong (10) Eunhye Pado (12) Delphini
Next Best14, 13
Fast Start1, 5, 10, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(2) ALPHA DOK looks ready to win. He was a distant 3rd two starts back when hampered at the start before colliding with the running rail before running on creditably Last time he worked forwards to lead easily from a wide gate ultimately accounting for all but a good w inner, Raon Beat. Great draw here and he’s warm favourite. (14) DREAM FASHION has been on the improve of late and ran on late from a wide positon for a good 2nd place last start. The draw doesn’t do him any favours but it’s not as if he is a good starter anyway and he can run on. (10) QUEENS TOUR got buffeted all over the place early on last start before regaining her composure to run a strong 2nd. That was just her second start and she showed good maturity in adversity which she can build on here. (8) AMAZING QUEEN and (11) GEUMSEONG CHARMING the others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(2) Alpha Dok (10) Queens Tour (14) Dream Fashion (8) Amazing Queen
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here and while it is a bit risky to read too much into trials, (12) PUREUN JANGMI certainly looked the part in hers when 2nd in a fast time back in March having led for much of the heat. From the track’s top stable and with Perovic aboard, she probably starts favourite. Of those with experience, (6) MASTER QUEEN is the best. She led for most of the way around last start before being collared by a good winner at the distance. She is well drawn to lead again and will be there or thereabouts at the business end. So too should (8) PARTY INDY. Her best finish so far was last time over 1000M but she can get on pace here and stick to task. (9) GEUMA STARLET was promising enough on debut to warrant keeping an eye on while (11) DONGBANUI SIJAK is the only previous winner in the field and not to be overlooked either.

Selections(12) Pureun Jangmi (6) Master Queen (11) Dongbanui Sijak (8) Party Indy
Next Best9, 14
Fast Start6, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) SERVE ACE is working up towards a win and has been strong in her latest two, both over 1300M. Last time out she was ridden early to get a handy position behind the leader and then stuck to task well for 2nd. The extra distance should suit and today could be her day. Main danger is (6) GO WELL, whose last start can be disregarded as it went anything but well with him losing any chance at the start. He has some good form behind him though and has placed at 1400M. He is another whose style should suit the two-turns. (8) LONDON HEAT is one of just three who have raced at this distance already. That was two starts back when he overcame a wide trip to briefly strike the front in the home straight before being headed. Place chances here. (12) HAWKUI YEONGGWANG also has place chances. He was a close 3rd last time out on a wet track over 1300M. (7) ISTHMUS has run on pleasingly enough in both previous outings and is another who may appreciate more distance.

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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 17)

For racing to continue at its current level of two days a week, we need the social distancing levels to remain at “1.5” in at least Jeju Island, Daegu and Gwangju (and ideally Cheonan). They are currently at level “2.0” in Seoul and Busan but with no vaccine progress and the virus cases predicted by both local media and government to rise significantly next week, it is possible that in the capital at least there will be further restrictions. This weekend and next weekend should be ok though. Saturday sees 8 races at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 6 races at Busan from 11:30 to 16:50. Here are the previews:

There has been some fine spring weather recently

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Maiden fillies get things underway for the weekend. (4) GOLDEN CHANCE will probably be favourite off the back of a 4th and a 2nd in two starts so far. She came close to making all in the latter of those, which was at this distance, and is nicely drawn to get to the front early again. (5) LONDON POWER ran well for 3rd on debut over 1000M at the end of February. She was well back behind a good winner but should have come on for the run and can be a danger. (1) DANCING WITH YOU showed promise in her first two outings and while she put in a poor effort in her third, she has subsequently trialed up well and should be a factor. (13) MACH JIJON is another who can have a line drawn through her latest effort. She has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and can go better today. (14) CHOEGANG QUEEN is the solitary debut maker. She didn’t catch the eye in trials but all the others from her dam have been winners and she is worth keeping an eye on.

Selections(5) London Power (4) Golden Chance (13) Mach Jijon (1) Dancing With you
Next Best10, 13
Fast Start1, 10, 11, 13

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Just one previous winner in the field and that status is enough to ensure that (8) ACE SOLOMON is well-backed here. Always prominent he ran on to win very comfortably over this distance on March 6th. He carries only slightly more weight today and should be on pace once more with every chance of a repeat. (13) MUJEOK BULPAE registered a pleasing enough 2nd on debut over 1000M on February 27th. He had previously shown good speed in a trial and should have come on for that run to be a big danger here. (5) SEONGSIL SONYEO came from off the pace to run 2nd at this distance a month ago and can aim for the places again. There are three first time starters and a couple of them look to have claims first-up. Both (11) BURNING GUN and (14) CONSTANTINE ran 2nd in their respective trials and while the draw does neither of them any favours, both should acquit themselves well.

Selections(8) Ace Solomon (13) Mujeok Bulpae (5) Seongsil Sonyeo (14) Constantine
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A maiden that is somewhat on the weak side. The only one of them to have even finished in the top three before is (11) CHAMILHO and that’s enough to make her favourite. Forget her latest effort when the 1400M didn’t suit, she’s back at 1200M today and shouldn’t be bothered by the wide draw. We’re going to side with the solitary debut-maker though. (14) SMART OFFICER came from the middle of the pack to win a trial at the end of March. While she has the worst of the draw, she couldn’t have asked for a softer race to debut in and she won’t need to improve much off that trial to win. (6) DOUBLE TAKE did nothing on debut but previously clocked a good time in a trial so is worth another chance here while (8) AURORA ROAD and (10) VESPER are others who can improve on inauspicious starts.

Selections(14) Smart Officer (11) Chamilho (10) Vesper (6) Double Take
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 11, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Competitive race here. (8) THE WIN beat a couple of these when 3rd in a promising enough debut on March 27th. True, he was some way back behind a good winner but ran on pleasingly and the additional furlong could be to his benefit today. (13) JAMAICA POWER was 4th in that race on what was his debut too. He perhaps has a bit more to find but the jockey booking is eye-catching. The main threat though is (10) MIDNIGHT QUEEN. While she was only 7th last time out, she finished ahead of a couple of these in a good time in what was a much stiffer test. She has every chance here. (12) JEMA FORTUNE actually beat Midnight Queen two starts back and for that fact alone, has to come into the equation today. (3) JANGSAN PRIDE and (9) OX BOY are others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections(8) The Win (10) Midnight Queen (9) Ox Boy (3) Jangsan Pride
Next Best12, 13
Fast Start4, 10, 11, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

It’s time that (7) GLOBAL YEONGUNG won a race. The Take Charge Indy colt comes in off the back of near-misses in each of his latest three outings at 1200M and 1400M. He can sit handy here from a good draw and should be too strong in the latter stages. If he does come up short again then another Take Charge Indy, (9) NONSTOP GISANG, may take advantage. He too has started to figure things out in his latest two and can continue his development here. (5) JOEUN SAI ran a useful time when 4th at this distance last start and warrants attention as place hope while (3) ONE JI too come sin off his best finish to date last start and can maintain some momentum here. The wildcard is (2) WONDERFUL K. He ran 2nd and 5th in his first two starts before parting company with his jockey leaving the gate on what was to be his third attempt last month, completing the course himself. He has drawn well here and does seem to have ability.

Selections(7) Global Yeongung (2) Wonderful K (9) Nonstop Gisang (3) One Ji
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(12) RAON THE POWER won his first two in fine style before running 2nd to Top Of Korea on his first try at this class on March 20th. He has drawn wide here but so too have his main rivals – and he is favoured to get back to winning ways today. (11) ACE DAY is half-brother to the excellent Today. He won on debut at this distance and comes in after a strong 2nd place over 1400M to Baby Line when he had to overcome the widest draw to get to the lead. He should be the primary danger. (13) WONDERFUL KING remains a maiden after seven attempts but he has four to-three finishes and beat no fewer than four of his rivals here on his way to 2nd place at class and distance last start. He looks good for at least another place finish today. (5) FINAL PARTY and (4) CHOEGANG CUPID are others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(12) Raon The Power (11) Ace Day (13) Wonderful King (4) Choegang Cupid
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) BEOLMAL DAEJANG is the one to beat here. He’s got progressively closer across his three starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish last start over 1300M. He ran on strong with an extra half-furlong to play with today, can make his breakthrough. (1) SAEMYEONG HAETSAL and (5) WONDERFUL JOY have already found their way into the winner’s circle, both of them in their respective latest starts. The latter’s came at this distance and both can go close again today. (10) CUPID KOREA comes in off a career-best 2nd place last start. He should be on pace here and has claims on a place again. (4) LAST BOSS ran 4th last tine at this distance and comes down 3.5kg in the weights today with an apprentice on board, which should put him into at least the minor money reckoning.

Selections(3) Beolmal Daejang (1) Saemyeong Haetsal (5) Wonderful Joy (4) Last Boss
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 14

Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 35 Million

Two winning streaks are on the line here. (7) MACH TITAN will be the favourite to keep his intact. He has made all the running in his last three starts, winning all of them well, most recently at class and distance. He gets the better of the draw here and could well lead all the way again. (11) GODDESS MOON has won four in a row. She steps up to the mile for the first time but she is a two-time winner at 1400M, both times leading all the way. She has a 4kg weight advantage over her rival here and can make it count but she will be up against it in terms of their respective draws. As good as the favourites are, it’s not a two-horse race. (1) COPY THAT has only been outside the top-two on one occasion in eight starts so far. He’s won at this level over 1400M and while he started slowly from a wide draw last time out, still rallied for 2nd. He’ll go close again. (2) LEGACY beat plenty of these when 3rd behind the very good pair of Choegang Ssonsal and Jera a month ago and has minor money claims again. (10) TOP FIRE has a fast time at this distance to his name and can’t be ruled out either.

Selections(7) Mach Titan (11) Goddess Moon (2) Legacy (1) Copy That
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start1, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(11) YAHO GOLDEN CAT enters off a good 2nd place on March 14th at class and distance. That continued a run of consistent form and he looks well-positioned here to return to the winner’s circle, likely looking to lead. Another very consistent type is (3) MYEONGJIN DAY. He is yet to finish any worse than 4th in four attempts and steps back in trip after a solid 4th place over 1700M just two weeks ago. That was a good race and he also has a swift 2nd at this distance to his name. (4) ALCHAN NURI was 7th behind Yaho Golden Cat last start but the time before ran 3rd at class and distance in a good time. He can be considered a place chance here. (5) WANY K and (9) GOLDILOCKS are among several others in the hunt for the minor money in what looks a competitive affair.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 11)

Sunday’s racing is behind closed doors at Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 17:00). Betting outlets on Jeju Island as well as in Daegu and Gwangju will be open but all others are closed. Here are the previews:

Gaon Champ probably won’t be winning, but he will be running in Seoul’s Sunday feature

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(4) RUNNING KING may start as favourite here. He took a bump early last start on February 28th before racing keenly behind the leaders to be still running on strongly at the line. The previous time out he led for a strong 2nd and will be in the finish here. (3) NEW HOPE was 3rd in that February 28th race, marking a significant uptick in form and she can maintain that momentum today. The main danger though is set to be (1) DAECHEON EOLJJANG. He has run some good times over this distance and drops back after a decent showing over the 1300M last time. He has a nice draw on the inside which Johan Victoire can use to put him right in the mix here. (11) RAON GARAM has shown decent speed in both her races so far. That suggests the draw won’t be too much of a problem and she can be a factor. (8) ILGYEOK PILSAL was well back behind New Hope and Running King last start but we will disregard that and look back to his 2nd place on debut. Consider him for the exotics.

Selections(1) Daecheon Eoljang (4) Running King (3) New Hope (11) Raon Garam
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(12) K N LIGHT is the favourite and the pick here after his win at the distance back on January 15th. He stepped up to 1300M on his return and worked hard to be on the lead from the widest gate but just seemed to tire in the closing stages, ending up in 4th. Despite another wide draw, back at 1200M he is the one to beat. (1) MAD BLADE ran 2nd to K N Light in January before weakening late over 1400M on his return to action a month ago. Just as with the favourite, being back to 1200M is in his favour. (5) HAECHAN continues the pattern of those dropping back in trip and into contention. Although some time ago now, there was plenty of merit in his last crack at this distance and he should be competitive here. (9) STAR RUSH is yet to place but has shown ability. He was wide early last time before battling on well and could sneak some money today.

Selections(12) K N Light (5) Haechan (1) Mad Blade (9) Star Rush
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here. (12) GOLDEN BADGE is the pick here after a good 2nd at this trip in a nice time four weeks ago. She’s been reasonably consistent across here seven starts to date and this looks to be the race she’s been waiting for to pick up a win. (6) ROAD ROSE can have a line drawn through her latest effort when wide from an unhelpful draw. Her previous class and distance form is good and she should be on pace today with claims to go close. (1) JILPUNG BAEKGWANG was very wide last start but still battled on for a midfield finish. Moon Se Young climbs aboard today and she can improve. (9) CHEONGDAM TANK and (10) HAPPY MONTH are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(12) Golden Badge (6) Road Rose (1) Jilpung Baekgwang (9) Cheongdam Tank
Next Best10, 13
Fast Start3, 6, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) SPEED MATCH looks ready to win here. While his previous two goes around this trip weren’t ideal, he was a good 2nd back at 1000M last start, running on well and looks ready for another crack. He faces modest opposition here and can come out on top. (8) ADELE CROWN was exactly fast when 4th on debut a month ago but hinted at enough ability to suggest progression is on the cards and he can get close here. (2) SIMON TOP GUN has shown progress across four starts so far and is another who should be aiming to get in the places for the first time today. (11) JANGSAN MANGCHI has failed to build on an encouraging debut but still has the fastest time among any of these who have tackled the distance before.

Selections(3) Speed Match (11) Jangsan Mangchi (8) Adele Crown (2) Simon Top Gun
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

Fillies (and two mares) here. (4) RAON PINK was a class 6 winner on debut and has followed up with two solid performances at this class, running on from midfield both times. She can settle handy here and run on strong. (7) DAUL QUEEN is the one set to challenge her for favourite status. She too was winner on debut and was a fair 2nd on her first try at this class. She never really looked like winning that day but should be in the finish today. (11) CHEONGDAM WICKED continues to enter the calculations based on the sub-one-minute five-furlongs she achieved back last November. She’s not pulled up trees since but hasn’t been too far away. (10) CAREER HIGH is worth some thought. She didn’t settle especially well last time out but the run had merit. (12) LUCKY SMILE is another in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Raon Pink (7) Daul Queen (10) Career High (11) Cheongdam Wicked
Next Best12, 13
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(7) MENI GLORY has just come up short in both his starts to date, finishing runner-up at 1000M and 1400M. He was a beaten favourite last start but is drawn nicely enough to get the early advantage here and will be a short-price to make it third time lucky. This isn’t an easy race though. (13) AFLEET TAPIT improved last time out at start number two and while it was a slow race, he looks set to be competitive. (14) WONDER RUNNER has been consistent across four outings so far. The wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and he surely finds the places again. (6) STAR OF KING has been knocking on the door of the minor money in recent outings and could sneak a prize here. There is one solitary debut-maker but it is a notable one. (2) WILD INDIE is out of Wild Dixie Gal, dam of multiple Korean Stakes winners Beolmaui Kkum and Kkakjaengi and who also produced Dixie Again, winner of six from nine so far. By President’s Cup and Grand Prix winner Indie Band, Wild Indie trialed up nicely in March (after an unconvincing qualification a month earlier) and he will be backed.  

Selections(7) Meni Glory (14) Wonder Runner (2) Wild Indie (13) Afleet Tapit
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8
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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 10)

Current social-distancing levels have been maintained so betting outlets on Jeju Island and in the cities of Daegu and Gwangju can remain open this weekend. They will be betting on the behind-closed-doors meetings that will take place on both days at Seoul and Busan. On Saturday there are 8 races at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:30 to 16:50. Here are the previews:

Empty stands again at Seoul.

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only to get things started. There is one previous winner in the field in the shape of (8) LOVE ARCH. Her win came on debut over 1000M in February and while it was in a slow time, she went from almost last to first in the final furlong. The additional trip should suit and a repeat isn’t impossible. (1) LEGEND STAR has run 3rd in both her starts so far at 1000M and at this distance. Drawn nicely on the inside she should be handy and run on strong here with solid claims. She will be favourite. (5) GABO SARANGHAE has been knocking at the door of the places. She’s finished in the top five on six of seven starts and should be aiming to place here. (9) ELITE POWER has by some margin the fastest time of any of these at the distance and while her latest two efforts have been indifferent, she should be given a chance here.

Selections(8) Love Arch (1) Legend Star (5) Gabo Saranghae (9) Elite Power
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

There is one previous winner in the field. That’s (3) EAST BELLE who was successful at this trip two starts back. She weakened a little for 6th when stepped up to 1400M on her return in February but back down to her winning distance should be much closer today. (1) SECOND WIND returned from six months out to run 3rd over this distance at the end of February, swooping home late from off the pace. She should have come on for the run and can be a danger here. (2) CHOEGANG ILSE and (13) WIND HARPOON both look to have potential to improve and have at least placing claims. The one they all need to beat though is one of the six first-time starters. (5) SUCCESS MACHO is a three-year-old gelding by Macho Uno, who was imported in-utero. He looked extremely competent when holding his own in a fast trial with experienced horses and enters here as favourite. From a good draw with a top jockey on, he can lead gate to wire.

Selections(5) Success Macho (3) East Belle (1) Second Wind (2) Choegang Ilse
Next Best13, 14
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 13

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(13) DONGJIN CHOEGANG was a front-running winner over this distance on debut on March 7th, scoring by almost three-lengths. Despite today’s wide draw, she should be able to make her way to the front again and should have too much. (5) GEUMA MAJESTY ran 3rd in that same race, continuing an uptick in form that began with a 4th place in January. He can build on that momentum today from a better draw than last time and could run the favourite close. Jockey Ueda Masashi picked up a welcome winner last weekend and he has a decent shout here with (1) P.K. ROAD. The Upstart filly has been knocking on the door in each of her three outings to date and looks nicely in with placing claims here. (2) KOREA GIJEOK and (7) IMUGI are others with potential to improve.

Selections(13) Dongjin Choegang (5) Geuma Majesty (1) P.K. Road (2) Korea Gijeok
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start6, 8, 10, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Just fillies (and one mare) here and it’s a tricky puzzle to solve. (2) DREAM DANCER and (9) HORAENGI look set to dispute favourite status as both enter with consistent recent form. Horaengi beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place last time out and also has a 3rd at this distance to his name. Dream Dancer meanwhile steps up in trip after running on doggedly for 3rd over 1200M last time out. “Dogged” should be enough to see both close here. (6) FASHION BLADE was promising enough on debut when 5th behind Horaengi at 1200M. She made good ground from a long way back and will be expected to improve today. We’ll take a chance though on another one racing for just the second time, (13) WONDERFUL LADY. She was 5th over 1000M on debut but the step up in trip may suit and the jockey booking catches the eye.

Selections(13) Wonderful Lady (9) Horaengi (2) Dream Dancer (6) Fashion Blade
Next Best14, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) NAMSAN SIDAE looks set to be a warm favourite here. The Cowboy Cal colt is out of a Korean Oaks winner and has a 3rd and a 2nd from his two starts so far, running on strong on both occasions. The slight step up in trip should suit and he is the one to beat here. Emerging from the opposite end of the fate will be (13) EOSEOWA. He comes in off back to back 3rd place finishes, the latter of which was at this distance and if Ham Wa-sik can find a handy position, he can be a threat again. (10) JEONGMUN POKJU was a somewhat unexpected winner at 1400M on March 7th. He needs to be given more respect today and while a repeat is unlikely, he looks a placing line. (4) TEUKGEUP YEOWANG and (12) SINDAERO are others who can be competitive.

Selections(1) Namsan Sidae (13) Eoseowa (10) Jeongmun Pokju (4) Teukgeup Yeowang
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start7, 8, 10, 13

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies and a couple of mares only here. (1) MINYEOBONG has only once finished out of the top five and looks ready to score again here. She got her solitary win three starts back over this distance and followed up with a 2nd and a 3rd in solid, if unspectacular times. From the inside gate, she is likely to be sitting just behind the leaders and should prove too strong at the business end of the race. (14) TOP OF THE GIRL produced an uptick in form to run 2nd in a similar class and distance race in March 6th. She warrants respect here although the likes of (2) ACEUI GIPPEUM and (13) TOP LUCKY, who finished behind her that day, both look capable of overturning that form. (5) ANGEL WIND, who has been beaten by Minyeobong in both her two most recent starts, is another with placing chances.

Selections(1) Minyeobong (13) Top Lucky (5) Angel Wind (2) Aceui Gippeum
Next Best14, 6
Fast Start5, 7, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

The first division of this class 5 handicap sees (1) BLACK SILVER as a likely warm favourite. Her one win so far came at this distance in a fast time and she has a close at hand 3rd and 2nd in two starts since. From the inside gate, she is likely to be on pace from the start and should win. (6) GREAT KHAN and (7) GRAND CASTLE come in with almost identical form to one another. Both are also likely to be competing for the early speed and should be involved in the finish. (2) AROMA dropped off a cliff in the closing stages over 1300M last start but should be better back in trip today. (3) M J BEST has been a touch inconsistent across his three starts so far but has a bit of speed about him and looks a placing line here.

Selections(1) Black Silver (7) Grand Castle (6) Great Khan (2) Aroma
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(9) PINEUI KKUM is set to be hot favourite for this one. He was a bit of a late developer, not getting his maiden win until start number ten but he has been in fine form since. He comes in having recorded the fastest time of any of these over a mile when 3rd with a couple of his rivals here behind him, on March 13th. He likes to come from off the pace and should be too strong today. (8) GEUMA GOOD POINT got his maiden win at this distance last start. He is accordingly up in class today but on the strength of that showing should be competitive here. (10) SKY WIN was on pace at class and distance last time out and while he only managed 4th, looks set to be on pace again and has placing claims. (1) MAGIC HORSE and (4) TRIPLE MAGIC are other sin the hunt for some minor money.

Selections(9) Pineui Kkum (8) Geuma Good Point (10) Sky Win (1) Magic Horse
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10
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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (April 4)

Blue Chipper was 5th on his return to racing after more than a year out. The 2019 Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile 3rd place-getter is in action again at Busan on Sunday tackling 1400M in the feature race on the south coast. There are 6 races at Busan from 12:05 to 17:00 and 10 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Both meetings will be held behind closed doors. Here are the previews:

Blue Chipper goes at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(9) MORNING HILL was an impressive winner first up on February 28th making all in a fast time. He stretches out to 1200M today but if he has come on at all from that performance, he will take some beating here. The main danger is set to be a first-time starter. (4) YES I CAN trialed well, running on strong for 2nd place in his heat in a competitive time. The 1200M should suit and he can go well. (11) BORAQUEEN has fair form over her three outings to date. She led last time before battling on for 5th and is likely to improve off that run. (10) MODERN GOLD drifted well back in the field on his first start but got himself together to come home quite well and could sneak into a place. (2) YEONGWANUI HAENGJIN hasn’t pulled up many trees in two starts so far but previously showed some speed in a trial and the engagement of a top jockey today suggests improvement is expected.

Selections(9) Morning Hill (4) Yes I Can (11) Boraqueen (10) Modern Gold
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

There’s not a whole lot of exposed form here so (7) TEUKGWON might be the one to go for. He’s only raced twice and was a good 4th on debut before being on pace on his first attempt at 1200M back in January and battling on for 5th. He’s had a couple of months off since and should be right in the thick of things today. (3) SINUI ADEUL was in a handy position on his latest start before being hampered and losing ground. Disregard that and instead go on his two 4th places prior to that and he comes into contention. Also in contention is (4) THUNDER K. He has hinted at some ability and races for the first time since November having trialed well. The apprentice claim and the good draw put him in the calculations. (8) ROSEDAY MARINE is also in the hunt as is solitary debut-maker (9) BEOWULF.

Selections(7) Teukgwon (3) Sinui Adeul (4) Thunder K (8) Roseday Marine
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here and there are two previous winners among them. (9) YULONG STAR was a good winner two starts back at 1200M before running a good 4th last start when worked hard to get on the pace before battling on gamely. An apprentice claim takes 3kg off his back and puts him right in the mix. (8) JOYFUL K came home 5th in the same race having been quite wide before making good ground late. She won at 1200M last November and is at least worthy of a place line today. The one they both need to beat is (2) SARYEONI QUEEN. She recorded a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts last summer and while she hasn’t raced since August, she trialed adequately enough in February and has every chance first-up from a great draw to lead. (3) MISS ELITE and (7) NONGBON RAK are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Saryeoni Queen (9) Yulong Star (8) Joyful K (3) Miss Elite
Next Best7
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies get the Busan card underway and there’s going to be a warm favourite. (3) FLAT BABE came close to making all on debut over 1400M back in January, just getting overhauled in the closing stages by Looking Cat. Back in trip today but well drawn and with Perovic remaining aboard, she looks hard to beat. Draw a line through the latest effort of (4) HAEUNDAE BADA. She’s been back to trial since and her previous efforts suggest she should be aiming to place here. Similarly, (6) CHONGMA HWANGHU and (7) ENOUGH both hinted at ability on debut to the extent that we can overlook their respective latest showings and give them another chance here. There are five first-time starters and (1) MAGIC HILL and (11) AREUMDAUN GAMDONG both looked competent enough in trials.

Selections(3) Flat Babe (4) Haeundae Bada (1) Magic Hill (6) Cheonhma Hwanghu
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 14

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) ULTRA KING come sin off a good 3rd place at start number four when after showing good speed, he led a similar field for a time and fought on well. From the inside gate he should get an easier run today and is the one to beat. (3) BRAVO MAY came home in 4th place in that races continuing his record of always being there or thereabouts. That should be maintained today although once more he is likely to find one or two too quick. (4) CURRERECUS has the form to be in the finish. He beat three of these on his way to 2nd place in a good time over 1400M last start and with a good draw today, he is worth considering. (6) OFFICER COMMANDING was 5th but close to the winner last start in a good time at the distance. She also has a 2nd over 1300M and is firmly in today’s frame. (8) ROYAL YEONGGWANG the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Ultra King (4) Currerecus (3) Bravo May (6) Officer Commanding
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(11) WILD BLUE is the one to beat here. He has two 2nd place finishes and a 4th from his three outings so far, running on strong in each. He steps up slightly in trip which should be to his benefit and if Perovic can find a handy spot for him, he should be too strong. (14) GREAT GO remains winless but has been consistent across her eight outings to date. She led for much of the way around last start before running 2nd over 1400M and while the widest gate isn’t ideal, she can overcome it to go close. (5) PICTURE JASPER ran a good 3rd on debut, running on strong over 1000M and looks poised to build on that today. (9) FIRST WIND is the only prior winner in the field and while his latest two have been a touch disappointing, he shouldn’t be overlooked. (13) KING BID another in the hunt.

Selections(11) Wild Blue (5) Picture Jasper (14) Great Go (9) First Wind
Next Best13, 12
Fast Start3, 9, 11, 13

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(1) CATCH CHARM is a winner of two from two so far and is yet to see the rear of another horse at any time in her racing career. She is up in class here but she has won at this distance already and the inside barrier and Moon Se Young up again make her hard to beat. (2) STAR WARS is similarly up in class here, in his case following a win and two runner-up finishes. He comes down in the weights as well which should help his placing claims. Also with significant claims, at least on a place is (7) SEO E BEONJJEOK. He has won at this distance and was a close 2nd last start when handy but wide. She’s not been worse than 5th in her four outings and she should at least maintain that record. (4) GIVEN RUNNER and (9) SUN OF STORM are others with solid placing claims.

Selections(1) Catch Charm (2) Star Wars (7) Seo E Beonjjeok (9) Sun Of Storm
Next Best4, 13
Fast Start1, 6, 12, 14

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(9) DUMUSAN was a last start winner, breaking through at start number five. His form prior to that had only been fair but fair is enough to go on top in this modest contest. He’s generally slow away but has a nice turn of foot and so long as he doesn’t give them too much of a head start, should have too much. (11) WONDERFUL SECRET ran 4th behind Dumusan last start, sticking to task well. He’ll try to get to the front here and should still be around at the business end of the race. (7) CHEONGDAM DRIVE has a couple of 3rd place finishes to his name and that’s enough to put him in the placing frame again today with the likes of (5) DIVINE QUEEN and (6) BABEL STAR also capable of picking up a minor cheque.

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Seoul & Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 3)

Although “level 2” restrictions have been tightened to prevent on-course or OCB attendance in Busan as well as the Greater Seoul area, racing presses on. Both thoroughbred tracks will race behind closed doors on both Saturday and Sunday. Saturday’s racing sees 8 races at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:30 to 16:50. Here are the previews:

The cherry blossoms are out at a lonely Seoul Racecourse

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies (and one mare) to begin with and there are two last start winners among them. (9) PRINCESS SOCKS ran 4th on debut before breaking through at start number two, making all over thus distance in a fair time. It took (5) LEROY BLANC four starts to break through, something she finally achieved in January, similarly leading all the way over 1400M. She looks nicely in again. The one they both need to beat is debut-maker (6) BURUI YEOWANG is a half-sister to talented pair Raymond and Choegang Team and blitzed a trial at the beginning of March. She’s beautifully drawn to be on speed and has every chance first-up. (3) VICTORY SAM was a solid 4th on debut over 1000M at the end of February and should have come on for the run. (2) GLORY KHAN is another in the hunt and should make ground late on, especially if the favourites, who are all likely to be on-pace, over-race.

Selections(6) Burui Yeowang (9) Princess Socks (5) Leroy Blanc (3) Victory Sam
Next Best2, 12
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(2) AMAZING FOOT is the first foal out of Sun Lordly, a very solid racehorse in Korea who won three of her first five races. This Hansen colt ran 3rd on debut over 1000M in February and should appreciate the extra furlong today. He has strong claims. (3) GOSUUI POWER improved at start two at the end of Janaury, running on well for 3rd behind Raon The Power. He too looks ready to try this distance again and can go close. (9) SEOBU QUEEN, half-sister and stablemate to the excellent Seobu Cat has two 3rd places among three outings to date. Her previous try at this distance didn’t go well but she should be better this time around. (1) WONDER BLADE’s solitary start was fifteen months ago. He’s been through a number of trials since, most recently a fast one two weeks ago and comes straight into contention today. There is one debut-maker. (14) POKPUNG JILJU looked sharp in two trials and while the draw is unfortunate, he should be competitive here.

Selections(2) Amazing Foot (9) Seobu Queen (3) Gosuui Power (14) Pokpung Jilju
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A couple of standouts here. (2) RAON CHAMPSELY comes in off a good 2nd place when she ran on strong over 1200M. She gets an extra half-furlong to play with today and it may well suit the Musket Man filly. She’s likely to be vying for favourite status along with (7) GRAY CAT. After a bad start he was scarcely involved over 1400M last start but back in trip today and with a better start, he can be a big danger. (1) BIROE KING has the fastest time among those who have previously tackled today’s distance/ He comes in having beaten a couple of these last time out and should be in the mix again today. (6) MORNING FLASH will come from off the pace and should appreciate the slight step up in trip today while (12) SAMJEONG TAPAS is inconsistent but not without a placing chance in this company.

Selections(2) Raon Champsely (7) Gray Cat (1) Biroe King (6) Morning Flash
Next Best12, 5
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(1) THE FIRST FACTOR has been knocking on the door across three starts so far and most recently came home 3rd behind Baby Line and Ace Day in what was the fastest race ever recorded over this distance at class 6 at Busan. Of course, that was helped by the track condition but The First Factor’s time was nearly three seconds faster than anything else here has achieved at this distance and she could well come out on top today. (13) ADELE SMART has already come out on top, winning on debut on February 27th. That was over 1000M but he got stronger as the race went on and has every chance of following up here. (8) OLD CHEONHA came home 4th in the same race, also on debut and is another who should appreciate the additional trip. (5) TRIPLE STORM was a significantly improved 2nd last start and can maintain that momentum today while (7) BURNING PARTY is another in the hunt.

Selections(1) The First Factor (13) Adele Smart (8) Old Cheonha (5) Triple Storm
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 13

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A rare small field with just the nine three-year-old maidens going to post here. (9) BLACK ROOKIE is the pick and is likely to be a warm favourite. She has the fastest time at the distance which she recorded on a relatively slow track when 2nd two starts back. She was satisfactory, if one-paced, when 5th at 1400M last start and the drop back should suit. She has a strong finish and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (7) GO GO STAR has finished between 3rd and 5th in all of her five starts to date. She was a good 3rd at this distance last start and that should be a minimum requirement today. (6) GUK HYANG ran an improved 2nd at 1000M on her third outing back in February and can build on that today. (3) MASEONG CHEONHA and (8) LUCKY WORLD will need lines drawn through their respective latest offerings but are other sin the placing frame.

Selections(9) Black Rookie (6) Guk Hyang (7) Go Go Star (8) Lucky World
Next Best3
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 28 Million

(2) TAKE INDY KING drops back in trip after two goes around 1400M. He ran 2nd on his previous try at this distance having led for much of the way and draws nicely here. He has every chance. (10) CROWN FUNKY beat three of these on his way to a solid class and distance 2nd place on February 20th. She has mixed her form but looks nicely in here to go well again with the same apprentice jockey taking plenty of weight off again. The draw this time though favours (1) YEONGGWANGUI START. He ran 4th in that race and from the inside could well get on the pace today. If he does, then he has solid claims. (4) WONDERFUL KING comes in off a strong 3rd place last start beating a couple of these in the process and can be competitive again while (11) EAGLE STAR may have lost his way a little in his latest two but has plenty of ability and could come back into form here.

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Seoul Sunday: Eoma Eoma vs East Jet – Race-By-Race Preview (March 28)

It’s another Super Sunday at Seoul yet no crowds will be allowed in to witness Eoma Eoma and East Jet facing each other in what should be an epic sprint tussle over the 1200M in the feature event. It remains galling that even the small and enclosed indoor Jangchung Arena in downtown Seoul was able to host spectators this weekend for a volleyball play-off series while the vast expanse of Seoul Racecourse isn’t allowed to admit anyone. It is what it is, however, and betting outlets south of (and including) Cheonan will be open at 20% of indoor seated capacity. It’s a cracking day’s racing in prospect with 15 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here is the race-by-race preview:

Eoma Eoma (left) and East Jet clash again (Pic: KRA)

Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Maidens in the opener with six of the fourteen going around for the very first time. Third time could well be the charm for (14) HOLIDAY CHARM. He has run on well but has arrived on the scene too late in both starts so far finishing in 2nd and in 3rd. He gets an extra furlong to play with today and while the draw is less than ideal, he can make the breakthrough. In the most recent of his races, Holiday Charm was 3rd with (9) BURUI GASOK in 2nd. That was Burui Gasok’s debut and very accomplished he looked too, leading for most of the way before getting run down late on by a good winner. He has serious claims and probably starts favourite. (8) DESK TAP ran 4th on his own debut in the same race and can aim to build on that today. As for the first time starters, there were a couple of eye-catchers in trials. (11) COMPLETE HONOR won his trial in good style while (12) MAGIC RECORD registered a fast time running on strong. Both can go well first up.

Selections(14) Holiday Charm (9) Burui Gasok (12) Magic Record (11) Complete Honor
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 14

Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Three-year-old fillies only here. (12) K N MENIQUEEN is going to be hot favourite here. While she finished well back in her first two, her times were adequate and it wasn’t much of a surprise when she won at start number three on February 5th with three of these back down the track behind her. The draw shouldn’t be an issue and she should be winning again. There are couple of others with potential. (1) SHOWMAKER ran 3rd on debut behind K N Meniqueen. That was encouraging enough to suggest there is more to come and she should be close to the pace from the inside draw here. (10) BEST CHEONSANG ran an improved 3rd at start number two in February. She has led both her races so far and will be expected to be on the early pace again. (9) GLOBAL CHEONSA was 4th in that race, continuing to show gradual improvement and looks a potential place line here along with (the solitary debut-maker (14) CHOEGANG BLACK. She ran on strong in a fast trial and could be interesting first-up.

Selections(12) K N Meniqueen (10) Best Cheonsang (1) Showmaker (14) Choegang Black
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 10, 13

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(5) CHEONMA TODAY showed good speed when leading all the way for back to back wins over 1200M in November and December. She weakened into 4th when tried at 1400M on February but splitting the difference at 1300M today and with the benefit of a very nice draw, she could return to the winner’s circle. The only other previous winner in the field is (8) CUPID BULLET. He was a speedy winner over 1000M on his second outing at the start of February and while up in trip here, looks set to be the main danger. (11) TAP QUALITY has been knocking on the door in his three starts so far and is one of only three in the race who has prior experience of this trip. He will be there or thereabouts again. (6) BODYGUARD and (12) HOEDURYEONG were both a touch disappointing on their respective latest outings but have hinted at ability and can aim for some money here.

Selections(5) Cheonma Today (8) Cupid Bullet (11) Tap Quality (6) Bodyguard
Next Best12, 4
Fast Start5, 8, 11, 12

Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(9) ACE PRINCE remains winless but has finished in the top five in all four of his starts so far. He enters having run 4th on his first try at this distance last time and looks nicely in here to make the breakthrough. Expect him to be on pace from the start and go all the way. (5) CHAMPION GAMUN will be challenging for the early lead. He has shown progress over his own four outings prior to today and steps up to 1400M for the first time with claims to go close. (6) POWER MUSIC beat a few of these on her way to 5th place over 1700M on February 5th. That was her first start since August but she already has a runner-up finish to her name at this distance and should be a danger here. (1) ETERNAL MEMORY was further back in that same race but expect better dropped back to one turn. Even further back was (3) GEUMA SWIFT. The time before though he ran on well from the back over 1200M and can be given another chance today.

Selections(9) Ace Prince (5) Champion Gamun (6) Power Music (1) Eternal Memory
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9
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Moonhak Chief v Tiz Plan – Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 21)

There is a heavyweight collision at Seoul on Sunday as Moonhak Chief and Tiz Plan, two of the top three horses at the track, square off for the second time this year. The pair will clash in the feature and finale race 15 over 2000M. Sadly nobody will be there to see it but punters located in the south of the country will at least be able to attend betting branches. Seoul and Gyeonggi Province remain shuttered. There are 15 Sunday races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00:

Moonhak Chief faces Tiz Plan on Sunday. Sadly there won’t be packed galleries to see it

Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only in the opener. (12) GANGSEO PRINCESS beat several of these on her way to an easy victory on debut over the 1000M on January 29th. She steps up in trip and has a less favourable gate today but the manner of that win suggests that the result will be the same and she will be the hot favourite here. (1) NONGBON BADA and (2) MAGIC TIDE both ran 3rd on their respective debuts in January. In the case of Nongbon Bada it was behind Gangseo Princess so that brings her straight into contention again while Magic Tide ran on strong in a good time and should go well with the extra furlong today. Already experienced at this distance is (7) MACH JIJON. She ran an on pace 2nd in a good time over the trip on January 29th, her best finish to date and can build on it here.

Selections(12) Gangseo Princess (2) Magic Tide (1) Nongbon Bada (7) Mach Jijon
Next Best14, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8, 12

Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(6) EAST IMPACT was a sixteen-length winner on debut posting one of the fastest times ever recorded at the distance at class 6. It was impressive and while it would only be natural for there to be a slight dip in performance second time around, if he runs anything near like that again, then frankly the rest could start now and he’d still win. The only other previous winner in the race is (1) DREAM PELLA and he’s the one to take advantage should something happen to the favourite. He made all for his win over the distance in December and while his 5th on reappearance in January was nothing to write home about, he should get on pace from the inside. (3) SWEET JUICE BAR was 4th – about half a furlong – behind East Impact on debut and has placing claims here while first-time starter (7) BLUE HAMMER caught the eye in trials and can go well first-up today.

Selections(6) East Impact (1) Dream Pella (7) Blue Hammer (3) Sweet Juice Bar
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 6

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

The betting market will be a little bit more competitive in this one with no clear standout. A couple of them look potentially ready to win though. Likely favourite is (2) THUNDER CHAMP. He ran on well for 2nd – a distant 2nd but well clear of 3rd place – to East Impact on what was for him start number three on January 29th. He steps up marginally in trip here but won’t need to improve much to have very good claims. (8) EAST JILJU ran an improved 3rd on what was his second start at the end of January, beating a couple of these in the process. He ran on strongly and the extra half furlong today keeps him right in the mix with an apprentice also keeping the weight low. (14) BIG RED could only manage 6th at the distance last start but it was by no means a bad run in what was a good race. He should be there or thereabouts. (3) BOGO TTO BOGO and (7) GEOSEN JILPUNG are others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(2) Thunder Champ (8) East Jilju (14) Big Red (3) Bogo Tto Bogo
Next Best7, 13
Fast Start2, 3, 11, 14

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here. (14) FASHIONED PASSION has drawn the car park but could well overcome it. The filly has improved across three starts so far and has the fastest final furlong average time of all of these. She moves up by half a furlong today and it could well suit with Moon Se Young climbing aboard for the first time. (1) SERVE ACE beat three of these on her way to 3rd place at this distance on January 29th recording by some margin the fastest time of those who have tackled the 1300M before. Munro can be patient from the inside here and she can run on strong. (3) MISS YANGHO was 4th behind Serve Ace last time out. She is one of only two previous winners in the field and will warrant respect again here. (2) GANGHWA CHEONYEO has shown signs of figuring things out across her latest couple of runs and can go close while (11) GREEN POKJU has been inconsistent but should be on pace here and can be involved at the business end.

Selections(14) Fashioned Passion (1) Serve Ace (3) Miss Yangho (11) Green Pokju
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start6, 10, 11, 13

Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

With two wins to her name already (9) USORYUNG gets a third crack at class 6 and is the one to beat again. True, she hasn’t race – or even trialed – since last November, but she has proven capable of leading and of coming from off the pace and with Munro riding, her credentials are burnished even more. She’ll be favourite but a vulnerable one. (5) COLJOY comes in off a smart 3rd ahead of a number of these on January 29th over 1400M. In the process he recorded the fastest time among those here who have tackled the distance and he should provide a stern challenge. (6) NUBIGO and (1) SAENAE CHOICE came home 4th and 5th respectively in the same race and both have claims to match or better that here while (2) COWBOY TANGO could only manage 7th that day but along with Usoryung is the only one of these to have experienced victory before and can’t be discarded.

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