Racing got underway at Busan on Friday and the behind-closed-doors action moves to Seoul on Saturday with a 15-race card from 10:45 to 18:00. The ponies on Jeju will also resume. Here are the previews:

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

A field of twelve three-year-olds all having their first start will kick off proceedings as we return to Seoul for the first time in over four months. (5) GRACE QUEEN clocked a reasonable trial mid last month when running second. The filly coasted through the line nicely and wasn’t fully extended suggesting if she can find a few more lengths she will take some running down. The trial of (7) TEUNTEUNA was better than it looked to the naked eye. The Rock Hard Ten colt was beaten by a big margin but did clock a competitive time for this grade. Expect further improvement on the trial. (8) CAREER HIGH is worth considering in your selections. The Any Given Saturday filly ran midfield in her heat but ran through the line fairly, she will get the services of leading rider Moon Se-young. (1) GEORGE QUEEN won her trial but they dawdled early in the heat. The filly also hung out badly down the straight. She should be better for the run both physically and mentally.

Selections	(5) Grace Queen (7) Teunteuna (8) Career High (1) George Queen
Next Best	2, 4
Fast Start	1, 5

 

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

Three-year-old maidens here with five of the twelve making their belated racecourse debuts. We’re going to go with one of those first-timers, (6) WINNER QUARDRILLE. The Gold Allure filly initially won a trial in January and then went through another in April where she gave champion Silver Wolf a good workout, running home 2^nd in a useful time and if she brings that form to the races today, she can win. Also showing ability in trials was Luigi Riccardi’s (7) CHOEGO CAMP, a front-running winner of her heat in March and with every chance of going well first-up under Johan Victoire. As for those with experience, (2) FIGHTING NOW is a bit of an enigma. He ran well for 2^nd on debut last October which led to him being sent off at odds-on for his reappearance in November. He got a bad trip and ended up in 7^th which we will forgive, but he didn’t exactly impress in a March trial either so while he evidently has some talent, caution is required. (11) BURNING POINT and (12) SONGAM PLAYER both have 3^rd places to their names and both performed a little better in their respective recent trials, although both have drawn closer to the car park than the rails.

Selections	(6) Winner Quardrille (12) Songam Player (7) Choego Camp (2) Fighting Now
Next Best	11, 8
Fast Start	3, 7, 8

 

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

Twelve Korean-bred gallopers line up in the third event all looking for their first win. (10) THUNDER K looks one of the main chances. The chestnut finished fourth on debut in December last year in a handy two-year-old event. The colt trialled in April clocking a good time on a dry track suggesting he is ready to fire first up. (8) BANGJU showed some improvement at his second start in January. The Into Mischief gelding hit the line fairly to finish third behind Songam Tiz. Whilst not the strongest form line this race is of similar strength. (11) GANA PARK debuts after a solid trial effort to finish second. She was beaten five lengths in the trial but clocked 62.8 on a dry track which will see her competitive in this event. (3) BALBATU lines up for his third career start. The Hansen colt placed at his most recent run before the racing hiatus over 1000m. The chestnut passed a few in the straight hitting the line well suggesting he will appreciate the 1200m for the first time.

Selections	(10) Thunder K (8) Bangju (11) Gana Park (3) Balbatu
Next Best	12, 6
Fast Start	10, 11, 12

 

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

Three-year-old fillies only for this maiden. (6) GLORY FIGHTER was sent off the odds-on favourite for what was her second start in January. She took a bump at the start and then hung inwards late on ultimately finishing in 3^rd place. She didn’t impress when trialing in April but didn’t do too much wrong either and can be given another chance today. A more impressive recent trailer was (10) BLUE K. She’s shown plenty of speed as well, especially when running 3^rd on what was her most recent racecourse appearance last October. The engagement of Kim Yong Geun is a plus and she’ll surely be a big factor. (12) OLD BLADE is one of very few horses at Seoul not to have trialed during the shutdown. She put in two solid if unspectacular performances around the turn of the year registering a 4^th and a 3^rd and can aim to match or better that here. (5) CHEONGDAM YEOGEOL also did nothing wrong on her debut last December and can push on today.

Selections	(10) Blue K (6) Glory Fighter (5) Cheongdam Yeogeol (12) Old Blade
Next Best	7, 9
Fast Start	1, 10

 

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

An even group of maiden Korean-bred gallopers will face the starter in the fifth. The race record of (11) CLEAN HEART does not read all that well to date but his trial suggests there may be improvement to come. The Artie Schiller colt clocked 62 seconds flat on a dry track and crossed the line with some handy types. The three-year-old was pushed out but ran it out strong and with fresh legs looks to be some value over the 1300m first up. (5) SANARAE is the most experience galloper in the race with eight starts under her belt. She has just the one minor placing from the eight starts but it did come over this distance towards the end of last year. She trialled in reasonable fashion in May where she finished third but appeared green when running up the straight. She gets one of her easiest assignments to date. Korean punters have sent (6) HANSEN CHOICE to the gates numerous times at a short quote and done their money every time. With no betting in Korea this weekend it would salt in the wound if the chestnut was to get up. She showed little in her trial but has previously showed ability over the short course and hence she is being included on a place line. (12) TYCHE FIRE looks the interesting galloper engaged from an improvement point of view. The Indie Band colt finished well back on debut in February but his trial in May was solid considering he was off the track throughout and still clocked 62.3 seconds on a dry track. The draw will do him no favours but he could be one that improves. This is a hard race and the likes of (3) THE BEAST, (7) GOLDEN SWITCH and (9) BIANCA could fill a place without surprising.

Selections	(11) Clean Heart (5) Sanarae (6) Hansen Choice (12) Tyche Fire
Next Best	3, 9
Fast Start	3, 5, 6, 8

 

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

Just the one first-timer starter amongst this field of maidens but he looks useful. (8) E STRIKE ran on well across two trials and 1400M should suit first up. Jockey booking a plus and he has claims to start his career in the best possible way. (11) TOP SEED has a 2^nd place to his name at this distance already and he has looked well in two very solid trial performances during the hiatus. He’ll go back at the start so the wide draw is no issue and he’ll run through the line strongly. Also with experience of the distance and also untroubled by the wide draw is (12) THE DREAM. He finished 4^th to Top Seed’s 3^rd when they raced each other at this distance on early February and he can get close once again today. It looks an open race beyond those with perhaps (1) YAHO M J CAT and (2) HAPPY MONTH being best of the rest although there is a lack of speed engaged so if something like (4) SIN ROK, who has at least shown some ability from the gate, could get an easy lead, then he may go close.

Selections	(11) Top Seed (8) E Strike (12) The Dream (2) Happy Month
Next Best	1, 3, 4
Fast Start	4, 11

 

Race 7: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million 

Some progressive types line up in the seventh on the card where there is a host of winning chances. (3) ICE PUNCH was flying before the Covid hiatus scoring a dominant six length victory over the 1200m, which they line up over once again in this event. The dapple grey then did everything right in a barrier trial in April when overcoming a wide gate working to the front and winning under his own steam. The colt looks ready to fire first up and gets the services of Seoul’s leading rider in Moon Se-young. (2) GREAT KHAN is another who broke maiden status just before the racing hiatus. The Menifee colt clocked a good time when winning by a clear margin over the five furlongs. The query (more…)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 13 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

 A field of twelve Korean-bred three-year-old maidens line up over the 1300m in the first on the card. (10) ALCHAN NURI looks the one to beat coming off a good debut performance. The Federalist gelding flew from the tail of the field to finish second behind High Wonderful. The time was good for this grade and Kim Dong-Soo retains the ride. (7) NAUI SINHWA comes out of a strong form line where he finished fifth behind Lady Kelly who has since gone on and saluted once again. He has drawn slightly better in this event which may result in Kim Jeong-Jun being able to position the three-year-old closer to the speed. (8) DREAM FASHION is another that comes out of a strong race. The Old Fashioned colt was one-paced in the final stages when ending up fifth behind Dia Key. This is easier and he will benefit from the debut run. (3) A TO Z trialed last Friday finishing second in good time. His last run was at the start of December when running fairly over the 1300m. His performances in his trials suggest he can run into the money.

Selections (10) Alchan Nuri (7) Naui Sinhwa (8) Dream Fashion (3) A To Z

Next Best 5, 2

Fast Start 3, 8

 

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

Competitive race. (11) MIRACLE ICHEON has finished 3^rd in both starts so far, both of them over this distance and last time in arguably better company than this. He’s not a fast starter though which may be of some concern but he has run on well both times – just running out of track. If he’s close at the top of the stretch, he should win. If he does leave himself too much to do again, (4) MAD DIVA could be the one to take advantage. She was beaten less than a length on her latest outing over this distance just before Christmas and from gate 4 should be on speed from the start. (5) P.K. DOLPUNG ran well for 4^th on his first try at this distance last start and can better from a more favourable draw today. (3) LAST MAGIC steps up to the distance for the first time after a useful 3^rd over 1000M a month ago while the solitary debut-maker, (6) TIZ CITY, did nothing wrong in trials and can go well first-up.

Selections: (11) Miracle Icheon (4) Mad Diva (3) Last Magic (5) P.K. Dolpung

Next Best: 6, 9

Fast Start: 3, 4, 5, 8

 

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

Twelve Korean-bred maidens will go over the 1300m in the third event. (5) EAST CHAMP had his first go over 1300m last time out when finishing fourth behind Strong Red. The Ecton Park colt finished less than two lengths behind the winner last time out and this looks an easier assignment. (7) KOREA DAEJANGBU comes out of the same race where finishing fifth. The four-year-old is still looking for his first win after ten starts but he has run some reasonable races. (8) SPECIAL AGAIN maps to settle in the second half of the field and produce her turn of foot late. The filly will get the services of Alan Munro for the first time which is a positive. (6) SANARAE handed in her best career performance to date last time out when second behind Best Lucky. The Any Given Saturday filly ran only a fair time and will need to find a few lengths to be considered a winning chance.

Selections (5) East Champ (7) Korea Daejangbu (8) Special Again (6) Sanarae

Next Best 3, 4

Fast Start 6

 

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

(6) SAENAE SPURT recorded his maiden win at this distance in November and then ran a very good 2^nd on his first try at this class on December 22^nd. He comes from just off the pace with a good turn of foot and he could well be returning to the winner’s circle here. (11) GEOMPO’s maiden win last start had been coming and he made all to win very handily over 1000M. He’s up in class today but has already performed well at 1300M. He is a front-runner so the draw isn’t ideal but if he can get to the front then he has claims. (1) DASHING CANOE has proven competitive at this class. She goes well back at the start and her manners have been an issue but she could well run into some prize money late on. (8) MONEY SILK remains a maiden but is up in class following back to back runner up finishes and should be competitive from on the pace. (10) LUCKY MIDAS was 4^th behind Saenae Spurt last time out and can aim to match that today.

Selections: (6) Saenae Spurt (11) Geompo (8) Money Silk (1) Dashing Canoe

Next Best: 10, 3

Fast Start: 8, 10, 11

 

Race 5: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

 There is a severe lack of exposed form in the fifth where they will line up over the short course. (4) DANGCHAN BARAM appears to start favourite after finishing second behind Our Simon last time out. The filly crossed from barrier twelve to sit on speed and clock a good time for this grade. With the better draw today she should take up the running and prove hard to run down. (11) DREAM GIRLS will line up for her second start after a fair (more…)

Saturday sees a bumper 13-race card at Seoul runing from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A maiden to kick things off with only two of the twelve having raced more than once. Both will be contenders here as both showed improvement on their respective second appearances. (5) CLAY WINNER ran 2^nd on his second appearance at the end of November, well beaten by a very good winner but nonetheless showing he has plenty of ability himself. The Hansen colt is not a natural front-runner but can find a handy position here and finish sternly. (1) RAON BLOOD was a touch more impressive when 3^rd on her second start just before Christmas. She will be expected to lead here and is the slight pick to hold on all the way. (4) SONGAM TIZ did absolutely nothing on debut back last September. He was put away after that and looked a completely different horse when returning to win a trial just last week. He made all and assuming he didn’t leave his race back in that trial, he’s well drawn to be on speed here and he can have serious claims. (9) MISS ELITE and (12) GWANGYA SIDAE are others who should be going close.

Selections: (1) Raon Blood (4) Songam Tiz (5) Clay Winner (12) Gwangya Sidae

Next Best: 9, 11

Fast Start: 1, 4, 11

 

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

A field of twelve maiden fillies will line up over the short course in the second. (8) HANSEN CHOICE lines up for her third career start coming off some promising performances. At her first start she lined up in a strong two-year-old event, when settling in the leading division and finishing second. She was slightly disappointing at her second start when finishing fourth, she lost considerable ground when taking the turn for home before running on strong once again. (6) CUPID BISANG is considered a winning chance. The Thunder Moccasin filly finished second to K Top King on debut in a two-year-old event, who has since gone on and saluted again. (2) SHINE FIGHTER lines up for her third start coming off some solid performances. The Rock Hard Ten filly has sat on speed in her runs to date and is drawn well to do so once again. (4) BIG RIVER didn’t appear ready for the 1300m at her second start but handed in a good performance on debut when third over the 1000m.

Selections (8) Hansen Choice (6) Cupid Bisang (2) Shine Fighter (4) Big River

Next Best 12, 3

Fast Start 2, 8

 

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

A weak maiden gives a chance to a number who otherwise wouldn’t look likely to get a win. (9) GOLD FIELD is one of those. She’s been hovering on the verge of a place in recent starts, all of which have been in stronger company than this. She is a front-runner and taking the initiative here may be enough to see her home on top today. (8) FLYING THOR and (10) DONGJJOK GLORY will be two others who challenge for the early lead. Both have hinted at ability across their four starts apiece and both have top jockeys engaged today. (12) THE BEAST has a great name and began his career promisingly enough with back to back 4^th place finishes. His latest two at this distance haven’t been great but again, they have been in better races than this and he should improve. (2) A.P. PATEK went back to trial after his last start five weeks ago. He looked much better in his heat and is another who can show more today.

Selections: (9) Gold Field (2) A.P. Patek (12) The Beast (10) Dongjjok Glory

Next Best: 8, 7

Fast Start: 8, 9, 10, 11

 

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

There appears a lack of speed in the fourth event on the card where a field of twelve will line up over the 1300m. (6) SAENAE CHOICE comes out of a set weights two-year-old event where she ran second to Big Plan. Whilst she found one better on the day, she stretched out nicely holding off the remainder of the field. This looks a winnable assignment, with limited speed drawn on the inside off her this will allow Antonio Da Silva to roll forward on the Simon Pure filly. (3) BIANCA has finished in the money at her past few starts and is capable of a forward showing in this event. The Hansen filly is likely to sit just off the speed with a better draw. She was forced to spend too much petrol early on last start. (12) GOSOK PEDAL can improve on his most recent effort. The colt worked forward last start before being run down in the straight. Kim Yong-Geun jumps aboard for the first time, expect a positive ride from an awkward draw. (1) COMPLETE MOTION looks best of the rest and may add some value to your exotics.

Selections (6) Saenae Choice (3) Bianca (12) Gosok Pedal (1) Complete Motion

Next Best 2, 11

Fast Start 3, 6, 12

 

Race 5: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Wide open handicap here and while (9) MONEY CHAMP remains a maiden, he’s been promoted to this class on the back of consecutive runner-up finishes behind good horses. The times he has run in those defeats are likely to be more than competitive at this level and he could well be the one to beat. (1) WONDERFUL HENNESSY comes in fresh here for her first start since September. She’s proven herself a threat at this level with two 3^rd place finishes and from the inside gate is likely to be on pace from the start with solid claims to go all the way. (4) WIN BLADE was 5^th last start in a better race than this and should go close again while (5) GIVEN RUNNER too has been competing in stiffer company of late and is capable of running the kind of time necessary to win here. (11) CHEONEUN JJANG rounds out the most credible contenders. She led last time over 1300M, weakening late on, and may appreciate the drop back in trip today.

Selections: (9) Money Champ (1) Wonderful Hennessy (4) Win Blade (11) Cheoneun Jjang

Next Best: 5, 2

Fast Start: 1, 3, 4, 11

 

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

There appears plenty of early speed engaged in the sixth on the card. (8) GEUMSUNI STAR has been ultra-consistent of late filling a top four position at his past four starts. He drops back to the 1300m for the first time in August. His record over the 1300m has been good in the past. Lee Hyeon-Jong is promising rider who is likely to urge his mount forward in the early stages. (6) TIZ ROSE is one of those early speedsters who looks to map on speed. She has ran promising races at her past two starts finishing third on both occasions behind some progressive types. With the departure of Masa Tanaka Park Byeong-Yun picks up the ride. (2) CHEONHA YEOJE finished second behind East Jet two starts back and can bounce back after a disappointing performance last start. (1) GLORY VERN showed improvement last time out when finishing second in a time considered good for this grade. Johan Victoire is likely to kick up and use gate one to his advantage. (more…)

2020 at Seoul Racecourse gets underway on Saturday with 13 races from 10.45 to 18.00. Here are the previews:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

The first to kick off Saturday’s proceedings has a field of twelve maidens to face the starter. In a race that appears to have limited chances, (4) DAHAENGIDA gets a good opportunity to break through at his fourth career start. The three-year-old improved last time out when second behind Best Gundan in one of our stronger 2yo events. Johan Victoire was aboard last time out and retains the mount. (3) BARBELL is one that can improve on his debut effort when midfield over the five furlongs. The Old Fashioned gelding dropped the bit in the middle stages of the run but managed to hit the line fairly and pass a few in the run home. (7) WANGINHAENGCHA comes out of a relatively strong 2yo event where the chestnut finished seventh. Whilst beaten a considerable distance this looks a much easier assignment. (12) My Member managed to run into some minor money last time out and can do so again if Park Tae-Jong can negate the wide draw.

Selections: (4) Daehaengida (3) Barbell (7) Wanginhaengcha (12) My Member

Next Best: 8, 2

Fast Start: 6, 7

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

Quite a useful maiden here but we’re likely to have a strong favourite in the shape of (10) LUXURY CAPTAIN. After an ordinary debut, he ran a solid 2^nd on his reappearance in late November at this distance and won’t need to improve by very much in order to win here. (5) ANYANG JAGUAR is much more experienced but also seems to be heading on the right trajectory. All nine of her starts so far have been over the 1000M but she’s run on strongly for good finishes in her latest two and stepping her up in trip today seems the prudent course of action. (7) RUFFIAN PARK has hinted at ability across three outings so far and looks to have more improvement in him. (6) TERRA SPEED and (11) ROYAL CHUKBOK are others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections: (10) Luxury Captain (5) Anyang Jaguar (7) Ruffian Park (11) Royal Chukbok

Next Best: 6, 3

Fast Start: 3, 4, 6, 8

 

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

The three-year-olds line up in the third with all of them looking for their first win. (2) BAEKSAN THUNDER finished second last time out over the five furlongs and looks one that will appreciate the step up to the 1300m. She settled in the leading division last start before running through the line well going down less than a length to Lady Kelly. The form line she brings to the race looks superior to her opponents. Johan Victoire looks a strong chance to take up the lead and not be caught in a race that lacks early speed. (11) WILD WOODS has finished close up at his first two career starts. He managed to display a nice turn of foot over the short course and is another that will appreciate the longer distance. In contrast, (5) TOP SEED was debuted over the 1300m where he finished fourth behind Wang Taeng I. He looks one of the backmarkers in this event but can rocket home late to collect a cheque. (6) BRAVO GWACHEON is another that has finished close up at his two starts to date, but his times have been slower than the selections ahead of him. Kim Yong-Geun rides the Peace Rules colt for the first time.

Selections: (2) Baeksan Thunder (11) Wild Woods (5) Top Seed (6) Bravo Gwacheon

Next Best: 1, 3

Fast Start: 1

 

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

Fillies and mares only here and plenty of them enter with encouraging recent form. The best-looking form though belongs to (8) VIRTUS. She made all when registering her maiden win at this distance in October before running a close 2^nd in a tougher race than this on her first try at this class six weeks ago. She should be on pace from the start here and she may well take some beating. (1) SINGGEUREOUN TIME was 6^th behind Virtus last time out but such were the tight margins in that race, it meant she was only just over a length in arrears and can be one of the principal dangers today. (9) POWER TOWER steps up in trip for the first time following three very creditable runs over 1000M including her maiden win by a neck in October. She ran on strongly enough last start and the additional furlong and a half should pose few problems. (5) MASYA remains a maiden following nineteen attempts but is more than capable of finding the money in this company. (10) BARAMUI MISO looks best of the rest.

Selections: (8) Virtus (9) Power Tower (1) Singgeureoun Time (5) Masya

Next Best: 10, 6

Fast Start: 4, 8, 9, 12

 

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s fair to say no champions will emerge from the fifth event with plenty of these well tried. (11) DAEGIRI is the on top selection with very little confidence. The lightly raced five-year-old managed to finish midfield last time out over the same journey when disappointing. The start prior he finished second and showed he can run out the 1700m in reasonable fashion. Lee Gang-Seo jumps back into the saddle which is a plus as he has been aboard for the galloper’s better performances. (6) FIRST THUNDER is an eighteen-start maiden but managed to show a good turn of foot last time out. The Thunder Moccasin entire is likely to settle midfield in the race and will be pasing a few in the run home. (8) GREEN PARK is another that has had plenty of start yielding little success. The mare ran home well in a similar race last time out to finish third behind Penumbra. (1) CHAMP QUEEN can improve at her second start back from a lengthy spell. She ran into some minor money last time out when fifth behind Sanae Spurt.

Selections: (11) Daegiri (6) First Thunder (8) Green Park (1) Champ Queen

Next Best: 5, 2

Fast Start: 11

 

Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(6) GEUMA SUPREME’s solitary victory to date came at this distance way back in April last year and she returned to the 1700M, as well as to form, when running 2^nd on November 24^th. That was a very similar strength race to this one and while is the slight top weight, there’s a reason for that and he can come from just off the pace to win here. The main danger is (4) TAP MUSIC. He too is a winner at the distance and is also coming back into form with a 2^nd place last time out. He’ll come from a little further back but should run on well and has a winning chance. (1) SINGSING JANGSU is a touch inconsistent but while a previous crack at this distance didn’t go especially well, he has (more…)

The final race day of the year at Seoul (Busan races next weekend) takes place on Sunday with a bumper 15-race card from 10:45 to 18:00. Features will be the Cargill Agri Purina Trophy (race 9) and the Trainers’ Cup (race 12):

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

Twelve maiden juveniles go round here with three of them racing for the very first time. (9) HIGH WONDERFUL has the best finish to his name, having run 2^nd to Global Thunder on debut A month ago. He’ll be on pace here and has winning claims. (1) NUMBER ONE TARGET actually ran a faster time when 5^th on her own debut on November 16^th. The Hansen filly beat High Wonderful in an October trial and has every chance of besting him again. (8) NEVER WALK ALONE was a close 6^th behind Number One Target in that race last month and is another who can improve here. As for the first-timers., it’s taken (12) ALCHAN NURI four trials to make it to the races – he actually did on one occasion but threw his jockey off during the post parade and was a late scratching – but he certainly looked ready based on the latest of those, just last week, when he two of the others who go here. He can go well first-up.

Selections: (1) Number One Target (9) High Wonderful (12) Alchan Nuri (8) Never Walk Alone

Next Best: 11, 5

Fast Start: 10, 11

 

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens going round here, once more with three of the twelve making their racecourse debuts. The only one who has raced twice so far is (4) MONEY SILK and he will be a leading fancy here. After finishing 4^th on debut in October, he improved to 2^nd on his reappearance, beating a number of his rivals here in the process. They were all debuting so have scope for improvement here too, but the extra distance should suit, and he can win. Both (7) ALPHA DOK and (10) JOY BROTHER posted faster times than Money Silk when running 5^th and 4^th on their respective debuts. They too should appreciate the extra 300M that they have to play with here and are likely to go close. (1) GREEN MOUNTAIN and (8) HWA SSI BYEOK are two others who showed promise first-up and can come into the reckoning here.

Selections: (4) Money Silk (10) Joy Brother (1) Green Mountain (8) Hwa Ssi Byeok

Next Best:7, 11

Fast Start: 1, 4, 8, 9

 

Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Maidens once more although this time it isn’t restricted to the juveniles. (5) WONDER K is the pick having returned six months after his debut to run a solid 2^nd at this distance on November 11^th. He was a front-runner that day and will aim to do the same here and should have the beating of this limited set of opponents. There are one or two other promising ones though. (12) EAST ONE looks the clear second-best with a 4^th and a 2^nd in two tries, both over 1000M. He needs to overcome the wide draw here but should get close. (10) SIN ROK was a somewhat unexpected improver last time out, leading for much of the race on a muddy track over 1300M before eventually dropping to 3^rd. He warrants being sent off considerably shorter than the 190/1 he was that day. (4) KING KANMOREU is another who looks to be going the right way development-wise and can build on the 5^th he secured last start on his first try at this distance. (11) SUPER ECTON is perhaps best of the rest

Selections: (5) Wonder K (12) East One (4) King Kanmoreu (10) Sin Rok

Next Best: 11, 3

Fast Start: 2, 3, 6

 

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

A filly only maiden here and of the twelve, the one who looks readiest to win is (3) WONDERFUL PLEASURE. She’s shown steady progress across four prior starts culminating in 2^nd place last start behind Virtus. That was in late October so she’s had a bit of time off and from gate 3 can sit near the pace and launch a strong challenge late on. (6) MAD DIVA similarly starts for the fifth time today and has been showing decent consistency. She went well at this distance last time out and should be in the hunt for some money today. So should (5) GIANT GIRL, who tackles the distance for the first time following a solid 4^th over 1000M a month ago when she ran through the line pleasingly enough. (1) HAWK ARIRANG is the most experienced in the race and while that’s not a good thing in a maiden affair, she showed a bog uptick in form when 2^nd on November 23^rd and can maintain her momentum here. (7) DIECO hasn’t done much wrong in her latest two and is another with potential to challenge for at least a place.

Selections: (3) Wonderful Pleasure (6) Mad Diva (5) Giant Girl (1) Hawk Arirang

Next Best: 7, 8

Fast Start: 3, 7, 8

 

Race 5: Class 5 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

One of the firmest favourites on the card goes around in race 5. (2) JOEUN GAMUN got promoted to this level with an easy win two starts back at this distance before running 2^nd on three weeks ago. He raced a little ungenerously that day but with slightly better manners here, he will surely take some beating and jockey Masa Tanaka can ride a final- day winner for his second stint in Korea. (6) MENI STAND had a bit of a shocker when sent out as favourite two weeks ago, scarcely being involved and finishing well back in the pack. He’s better than that though and can be given another chance to find the places here. (8) HALLA BLOSSOM remains a maiden but finds himself up in class following back to back runner-up finishes. She looks to have improvement in here and can be competitive at this level. (3) HIGH BEAT also enters of two 2^nd place finishes in his latest two outings, in his case both at this class. He should be on the early pace and while he will need to improve if he is to challenge the favourite, can certainly aim for at least a place. A couple of others have minor money chances with (9) GREY KINGDOM perhaps the most credible.

Selections: (2) Joeun Gamun (6) Meni Stand (3) High Beat (8) Halla Blossom

Next Best: 9, 12

Fast Start: 2, 3, 6, 8

 

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

(6) HWANGGEUM HAE has a win and two runner-up finishes from three starts so far and having run 2^nd to the useful looking Legend Storm in the latest of those, surely comes in as favourite for this. He can set up camp close to the pace and should be too strong in the closing stages. (1) PSYCHIC BOSS had a nightmare from start to finish when favourite at class and distance, jumping out awkwardly, failing to get his preferred forward position, and then weakening badly in the home straight. We’ll draw a line through that and from the inside gate, he has a better chance of getting to the front and if he can do that, he surely goes much better. (3) GAROSUGIL was a nice winner on debut at this distance three weeks ago and while this is a significantly stiffer assignment, he can improve himself and be in at least the placing frame here. (4) JEONGSEONG HOLIDAY is also up in class following a maiden score of his own and looks well equipped to be competitive at this level. (5) ROYAL BOKSUNI has plenty of experience at this level and is another in with a shot of the minors.

Selections: (6) Hwanggeum Hae (1) Psychic Boss (3) Garosugil (4) Jeongseong Holiday

Next Best: 5, 10

Fast Start: 1, 3, 4, 6

 

Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three of these are up in class following last start maiden wins and of them (10) SAENAE SPURT looks well placed to repeat. His win had been coming and he arrived from off the pace to win comfortably over this distance. This is tougher but he can come through it. It looks a more difficult ask for the other two up in class, (1) JEJUI YOJEONG and (11) GOLD PARK, so we will look elsewhere for our principal dangers. (4) BARAMUI MISO and (5) LUCKY MIDAS are the prime candidates with both entering having run 4^th in similar strength races to this in their respective last starts. Baramui Miso remains a maiden but is rarely far away and drops back in trip following a decent effort over 1700M three weeks ago. Lucky Midas is another consistent type who we can expect to see on the speed from the start. (9) TANK SOCKS is still lightly raced and after a somewhat surprising maiden win in September has held her own in two efforts at this level. She steps up in trip for the first time today and could make for an interesting outsider.

Selections: (10) Saenae Spurt (4) Baramui Miso (5) Lucky Midas (9) Tank Socks

Next Best: 1, 11

Fast Start: 5, 6, 8, 9

 

Race 8: Class 4 (1000M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

The favourites have drawn wide here but they can overcome in what is a nice looking handicap over the minimum distance. (11) EAST JET won his first two starts in blistering fashion before tackling the Gwacheon Mayor’s Cup over 1200M on November 23^rd. He was sent off as second favourite but while he did show briefly at the right end of the race, he ultimately weakened for 6^th. He drops back in trip today and looks hard to beat. (10) RAON TAP MAN has a win and two runner-up finishes from his three starts so far. (more…)

There is a full card of 13 races at Seoul on Saturday running from 10:45 to 18:00:

Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Twelve maidens go around in the opener with three of them racing for the first time. (6) OUR SIMON beat three of these when improving the 2^nd place on what was his fourth start on November 16^th. He led from the start, ultimately going down late on to the favourite in a fast time, and a similar run today should see him home on top. (5) HWANSANG TOUCH was 5^th in that race, an improvement on her prior outings and she can aim to go better here although she probably has too much to make up on the top choice. (3) LAST MAGIC ran 6^th on what was her debut and likewise can build on that here. Of the three first-timers, (7) UNBREAKABLE participated in a fast trial and with little to fear here, looks nicely in for a good debut.

Selections	(6) Our Simon (7) Unbreakable (5) Hwansang Touch (3) Last Magic
Next Best	9, 11
Fast Start	5

Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens here and this time four of the twelve are making their racecourse debuts. A couple of very promising types are engaged too. (5) SIMPLE STYLE ran 2^nd to a good winner on a dry track on what was his second start a month ago. He was sent off favourite that day and he and the winner were well clear of 3^rd place. He’s worth another chance here. The main danger is (8) MIRACLE ICHEON. The colt ran 3rdover this distance on debut at the end of October, showing enough in the process to suggest he has plenty of potential. (7) K N WONDERFUL is heading in the right direction with a 5^th and a 3^rd from two outings to date, running on nicely last start. (4) GOSOK PEDAL was some way back behind Simple Style last start but has the potential to improve. OF the four first-timers. (3) UARYUNG looked the best in trials.

Selections	(5) Simple Style (8) Miracle Icheon (7) K N Wonderful (4) Gosok Pedal
Next Best	3, 2
Fast Start	5, 7

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

Fillies only for this maiden. (11) BAEK HAK may have been beaten by a couple of these two starts back but recovered to run well for 2^nd over this distance on November 10^th. She was well-beaten by a good winner but ran on pleasingly enough to suggest that there is more to come from her and she is the pick here. (12) BIANCA looks like she’s figuring things out and has recorded a 3^rd and a 2^nd from her latest two. She too has drawn wide here but should be able to overcome that and go close. The interesting entry is (2) RAIN K. She’s only raced once, all the way back in July when she finished 2^nd, five lengths behind K N Road, who went on to acquit himself well in some of the bigger juvenile races this autumn. She looked useful when trialing up last week – but likewise didn’t exert herself too much – and she can go nicely first up here. (1) CLEAR STORY and (8) HWANGGEUM STAR are others in contention for at least a place.

Selections	(11) Baek Hak (2) Rain K (12) Bianca (8) Hwanggeum Star
Next Best	1, 9
Fast Start	4, 6

Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

Bog standard maiden here but a few come in looking as though they are ready to step up and go close. (6) JEONGSEONG STAR is the pick. She has two 3^rd place finishes from four outings to date and ran well in what was arguably a tougher assignment than this last time. From the middle gate she should be on pace from the start and today can be her day. (7) EAST CHAMP and (8) STRONG RED both step up in trip for the first time. Both ran on well in their respective latest outings and both can be involved here with East Champ the more favoured of the pair right now. (10) YEOLRIN MUN got to within a length of the winner last start at this distance a month ago and should be challenging again. Along with (11) DALRINEUN BITKKAL, he’ll be needing to overcome a wide draw to get on speed but shouldn’t be too far away.

Selections	(6) Jeongsang Star (7) East Champ (8) Strong Red (10) Yeolrin Mun
Next Best	11, 3
Fast Start	6, 10, 11

Race 5: Class 6 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 24 Million

(2) BLUE BAND has started improve in his recent starts, culminating in a runner-up finish in what was his first try at this distance on November 9^th. He came from off the pace that day, running on well and he is the slight pick to prevail here. (12) HOSUA was 4^th in that race, just over two-lengths in arrears and he can be a threat today but the main danger is (6) FIRST THUNDER. He beat a couple of these on his way to a good 2^nd over 1300M last

(more…)