Seoul

Seoul & Busan Sunday Preview (August 21)

Updated accepted nominations of overseas-trained horses for September’s Keeneland Korea Cup & Sprint have been posted on the KRA’s English language homepage here. After the sad passing of Franklin D, another horse from the UK, Solar Deity, is set to make the trip. There are also alterations to horses from Japan and the UAE. Today in Korea, there are 11 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 13:00 to 17:00.

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Seoul Racecourse has really changed…A “Baskin Robbins”: outlet opened in the grandstand this weekend

English racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races (overseas simulcast) are below:

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(9) SPIRIT OF HANSEN led until just before the very end of his debut race on July 10th and he’s the pick to hold on this time at the same distance. Chasing him down will be (1) ACE RUNNER, a creditable 3rd on his own debut last month and a decent prospect himself. Korean-bred (13) SEUNGNI ANGEL, winner of her last two in the domestic ranks, takes her chance against perceived weaker imports here and should go well although she likes to be prominent early and will have to work hard from gate 13. (10) DALLYEORA BEONGAE, 4th to Seungni Angel last time, can match or better that here. A note too for debut-maker (2) COMPETIR, a rare NZ bred in Korea by Mr. Nancho, looked quick in her trial.

Selections (9) Spirit Of Hansen (13) Seungni Angel (1) Ace Runner (2) Competir
Next Best 10, 7, 11, 14, 5, 6
Outsiders 3, 4, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3, 4, 7, 13

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:45 (KST)

(9) JERAJIN got her maiden win at the third time of asking last start and while up in class here, has claims to follow-up right away in this all-filly affair. She may not be favourite though. That should be (7) TEXAS RUSH who, while yet to win in seven outings, comes in following three consecutive 2nd place finishes, last time at class and distance and she’ll be well backed to make the breakthrough here. Having won on debut, (5) CHALLAUI JUIN was very disappointing when favourite on her reappearance last month but gets another chance here while (2) MAKGANG JILJU and (3) WINNING GILI, the latter 3rd behind Texas Rush last time, should be competing for places.

Selections (7) Texas Rush (9) Jerajin (5) Challaui Juin (2) Makgang Jilju
Next Best 3, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 6
Fast Starters 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:10 (KST)

No fewer than eight of these are up in class for here, six of them following wins last start. Among them, we’ll go for (11) JANGSAN CITY, three length winner of a decent race in June, ahead of (7) KING AHEAD, to follow up. (14) INTO THE WILD prevailed by an eye-catching eight lengths at this distance on July 16th and needs to be considered while (13) CHEONJI SEONGGONG was promoted without a class 5 win but still looks competitive at this level. Of those with prior class 4 experience, Brian Dean’s (8) CHEONGCHUN YEOLCHA, a winner at this class three weeks ago is the pick ahead of (1) TOKTOK YEOJANGGUN.

Selections (11) Jangsan City (8) Cheongchun Yeolcha (14) Into The Wild (13) Cheonji Seonggong
Next Best 1, 5, 6, 7, 3, 4, 12
Outsiders 2, 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 10, 12, 14

Busan Race 3: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 (KST)

Banker favourite of the day here as (1) EUROPA, two for two so far steps up in class but should have little difficulty in handling this filed. A gate to wire win seems most likely. The two others up in class, (5) JANGGUNEUI HUYE and (6) GIGA SPEED, both looking for winning hat-tricks of their own, look best placed to stop him with (2) FIRST KING and (3) CLEAN CHOEGANG set to compete for the minor money.

Selections (1) Europa (6) Giga Speed (5) Jangguneui Huye (2) First King
Next Best 3, 4, 8
Outsiders 7, 9
Fast Starters 1, 5

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:55 (KST)

(3) SOKBO WANGJA defeated (11) RAON ROUIS by a length as the pair ran 1st and 2nd at class and distance on July 24th and they will be the market leaders. Sokbo Wangja’s victory that day was unexpected and the tables may well be turned today. It’s no two-horse race though, (6) SUN MASTER comes in following back to back 2nd places at class 5 and while up a level here, will be competitive with (1) STAR BONNY BEE and (5) DOLJIN among others with claims. (12) MONGGEULMONGGEUL, winner of two from four returns up in class from a couple of months off and can go well too. There will be quite a dash for the first corner with lots of these wanting to be on the early speed.

Selections (11) Raon Rouis (3) Sokbo Wangja (6) Sun Master (5) Doljin
Next Best 12, 1, 9, 8, 9, 10
Outsiders 2, 4, 7, 13
Fast Starters 2, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:45 (KST)

(6) SUN ROK should get back to winning ways here following a surprisingly comprehensive reverse at the hands of Suseong Captain on a muddy track last month. He will lead here and this time can make all. (2) RAON BOLAVEN, also rather disappointing last time out, looks to be the main danger although the experienced (4) CARDIFF HWANHUI unexpectedly returned to form with a 3rd place over this distance on July 24th and must be respected a little more today. (3) GRAND CAMP and (7) VALLEY STAR are others who can improve.

Selections (6) Sun Rok (2) Roan Bolaven (4) Cardiff Hwanhui  (7) Valley Star
Next Best 3
Outsiders 1, 5, 8
Fast Starters 3, 6

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 20)

Big fields are back at Seoul on Saturday with no fewer than 142 horses spread across today’s 12 races. First race is 2pm, last at 9pm.

English racecards are here. Notes on races 1-7 below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 14:00 (KST)

(6) OJEI MYEONGDANG beat two of these on debut when running 2nd last month in a quick race at class and distance and is very much the one to beat here. Those two, (8) SUNKISSED and (10) ARGO AWESOME were 3rd and 5th respectively and both should also look to make progress today. (11) ROYAL PARK was 4th on her own debut last month and also looks to have potential. Among the debut makers, (4) CLEAN UP SKY and (9) MIDEUMUI BIT impressed in trials with the former likely to be well supported here.

Selections (6) Ojei Myeongdang (4) Clean Up Sky (8) Sunkissed (9) Mideumui Bit
Next Best 11, 10, 7, 3
Outsiders 1, 2, 5
Fast Starters 5, 6, 11

Race 2: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 (KST)

(10) LION WINNER comes in following a 2nd place at this distance having finished very strongly. She’s been getting closer and closer and while it won’t be easy to come from off the pace, this her best chance yet to get her maiden win. Main danger is (5) BOUNDING PARK. She disappointed when favourite in an all-filly race three weeks ago – her first try at this distance. She was slowly away and used up plenty of energy getting into a good position before fading and can be given another chance today. (3) WON AGAIN should be trying to go better than “fourth again” while (1) PUREUN SEDAE and (7) FIRE BALL look capable of the money. The sole debut-maker is (11) GOOD HEART. She took four attempts to qualify but looked good finally doing it at the end of July and she may be considered first up

Selections (10) Lion Winner (5) Bounding Park (1) Pureun Sedae (3) Won Again
Next Best 11, 7, 2, 4
Outsiders 6, 8, 9
Fast Starters 3, 4, 7

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 15:30 (KST)

(7) DREAM SLEW, 3rd on debut and then 2nd on his reappearance a month ago, will be strong favourite to go one better this time. He’ll likely settle behind the early pace and should have too much in the closing stages. The rest look distinctly average so the danger may well end up being the only debut-maker (4) SAGYEJEOL. She was very quick in a trial (albeit on a fast running track) at the end of July and if she can translate that form to the races, should go well. (6) MIGHTY MAMBO has shown glimpses in three outings to date while (1) STAR GOLDEN and (2) COUNT DOWN also look to have potential for improvement.

Selections (7) Dream Slew (4) Sagyejeol (6) Mighty Mambo (1) Star Golden
Next Best 2, 9, 11, 12
Outsiders 3, 5, 8, 10
Fast Starters 4, 11

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 40 Million / 16:20 (KST)

The last of the maiden races and a competitive one it is too. It’s just for fillies and (8) MINT is the slight top pick having been 3rd in a similar race last month when she led close to home. She could give apprentice jockey Lee Chel Gyung his first winner. 5th in that race last month was (3) MIRACLE GARDEN. She already has a 2nd place to her name at this distance and should be close by once more. (5) MENI VET is more experienced and enters following a 3rd place at this distance having led almost the whole way round last month. She will lead again here. Among the rest, (11) POKPUNG JEONYA has improved in each of three starts so far and the step up in trip may be beneficial with (9) DARK AMBER looking best of the rest.

Selections (8) Mint (5) Meni Vet (11) Pokpung Jeonya (3) Miracle Garden
Next Best 9, 6, 10
Outsiders 1, 2, 4, 7,
Fast Starters 3, 5 8

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:10 (KST)

Up in class following his maiden win on July 23rd, (6) DAEGI SOKDO is favoured to follow up here. He made all to win by six-lengths that day and will look to lead right from the gate here too. (4) SAETBYEORI will be on speed with him and looks most likely to run him close although the stable is not in form at the moment. (7) HANIL ENSEMBLE drops back in distance following a pair of 4th place finishes at 1300M and should be competitive. (2) VINCERO S is another who may welcome the drop back in trip as should (10) CURRICLE, yet to win in 17, but worthy of another chance here after some decent efforts at much further.

Selections (6) Daegi Sokdo (7) Hanil Ensemble (4) Saetbyeori (10) Curricle
Next Best 2, 8, 1, 3
Outsiders 5, 9, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 4, 6

Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 17:50 (KST)

Big field here and (3) DEOKSAMHO is favoured, as Korean-breds who have won their way up to class 4 often are over the imported horses who have no option but to begin their career at this level. She’s won three of six so far, made all over this distance on July 10th and will look for similar today. Another Korean bred, (8) YEONGGWANGUIGEUNAL beat (4) SMART JOE and set a track record for this distance in the process last month. The conditions are likely to be different today and he carries 5kg more but he needs respect. Smart Joe too can be competitive. (2) BEONGAE FIGHTER has been steadily improving, culminating in a 2nd place on his first try at this distance last month and given a decent start, can match or even better today. Likewise (6) SEONJE ILGYEOK comes in following back to back 2nd place finishes and will be aiming to at least match them here.

Selections (3) Deoksamho (8) Yeonggwanguigeunal (2) Beongae Fighter (4) Smart Joe
Next Best 6, 7, 12, 11, 5, 9
Outsiders 1, 10, 13, 14
Fast Starters 3, 5, 8, 11,

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:30 (KST)

Another competitive race and (8) JANGSAN ROCKY beat both (7) SONOGONG and (1) DANGCHANBISANG on a wet track at class and distance three weeks ago. Jangsan Rocky can make the breakthrough here but Dangchanbisang should also perform much better. (2) DUAL POKPUNG struggled in a decent event at 1400M last start but comes following two months off and gets another chance here. (11) EVER A ONE and (12) BEAUTIFUL DON are both winless yet both find themselves up in class following a few too many near-misses at class 6. They’ll find it challenging to make the breakthrough here but should still be competitive in terms of potential for money finishes. Up in class following a win, the modestly named (5) BORN WINNER, also has claims.

Selections (8) Jangsan Rocky (1) Dangchanbisang (5) Born Winner (2) Dual Pokpung
Next Best 11, 12, 14, 7, 13, 3
Outsiders 4, 6, 9, 10,
Fast Starters 4, 8, 14

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview of Owner’s Cup Day (August 14)

Overseas-trained accepted nominations for the Keeneland Korea Cup & Sprint have been released as have the preliminary ones for Korean-trained horses. And some of those Korean-trained ones will line up at Busan on Sunday afternoon in the valuable Group 3 Owners’ Cup.

Triple Nine, Success Story and Gumpo Sky are all nominated for the Cup and they along with Rock Band will be the top fancies for the Owner’s Cup which will be run over a mile and will be available for betting on the TAB in Australia. English racecards are here. Brief notes on selected races below:

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 12:20 (SIN)

(6) HONEY BUTTER NINO is ready to win again on what will be his fourth attempt at this class. Beaten four lengths into 2nd last time, he can go one better here. The danger is (8) DEVIL MAN, who’s had a string of near misses and drops back in trip following back to back 3rd places at 1700M Both will look to come from just off the pace. That pace is likely to be set by (2) PINK STAR, who’s been in form of late and can stay on while (5) WANJEON MULGYEOL and up-in-class (1) HAPPIEST are others with claims.

 

Selections (6) Honey Butter Nino (8) Devil Man (2) Pink Star (1) Happiest
Next Best 5, 3, 12, 4
Outsiders 7, 9, 10, 11
Fast Starters 2, 3

Busan Race 1: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 12:40 (SIN)

(10) FEISTY flopped when favourite in a competitive race over 1300M on July 8th but Kim Young Kwan’s gelding showed good ability in two starts prior to that and is favoured to come back into form here. Similarly disappointing when well backed last time was (8) ICE MARINE and she too should improve today. One who ran to expectations last time was (6) CHOA, the gelding running 2nd over class and distance on July 15th and a repeat should be aimed for here. (4) SUNGANUI BEOPCHIK and (5) ONLY BLUE are also in contention.

Selections (10) Feisty (8) Ice Marine (6) Choa (5) Only Blue
Next Best 4, 9, 7
Outsiders 1, 2, 3
Fast Starters 5, 8

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:05 (SIN)

With two wins from four and back to the minimum distance today, (1) GOLD MORNING has plenty of potential and is the one to beat here. She should lead gate-to-wire. It won’t be a procession though. Both (5) JOARA and (9) GOLD MUSIC have proved capable at this level and will be dangerous. The former beat (2) BEYOND LIMIT last start but Beyond Limit too could welcome the opportunity to run at the minimum distance again. (10) JINNGYEONGUI GEOIN hasn’t really pushed on from an impressive start to his career but was a close 5th last time and is one of the quickest of these on his day.

Selections (1) Gold Morning (2) Beyond Limit (10) Jinngyeongui Geoin (5) Joara
Next Best 9, 4, 3, 8
Outsiders 6, 7, 11
Fast Starters 1, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 13:25 (SIN)         

Small but competitive field here. Both (5) OCEAN LINE and (6) ACE SINHWA drop back in trip today, the latter for the first time in many months. Ocean Line will look to lead while the Aussie-bred Ace Sinhwa will try to come from just off the pace and both should be involved at the business end of the race. (8) BIO BLUE is two races into a comeback following a lengthy absence. Neither have gone especially well but both have been at 1000M and the increased trip should be beneficial and we will expect an improvement today. (9) TOUGH COUNTRY is still looking for his maiden win but comes in following consecutive 3rd places and should match. (1) SEVEN PARTY will welcome the drop back in distance.

Selections (6) Ace Sinhwa (8) Bio Blue (5) Ocean Line (9) Tough Country
Next Best 1, 4, 3
Outsiders 2, 7
Fast Starters 3, 5, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 14:15 (SIN)

 He struggled in the Korean Derby and also in the Minister’s Cup, the final two legs of the Korean Triple Crown at Seoul, but back in Busan and back at seven furlongs today, (8) SAEROUN STEALTH should have far too much for this field. (3) SUPER STORM and (6) MACHU PICCHU, who ran 2nd in decent races at 1400M and 1600M respectively last time are the two with the strongest claims to be able to compete with the favourite while (4) BYEOLMURI was an improved 5th (behind Super Storm) last start and can look for more improvement. Second place specialist (2) WIN GO MAN is rather unfortunate to find himself up in class here but should be able to give a good account of himself.

Selections (8) Saeroun Stealth (3) Super Storm (6) Machu Picchu (2) Win Go Man
Next Best 4, 7
Outsiders 1, 5
Fast Starters 3, 4

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:00 (SIN)

Up in class following a comfortable victory over a decent class 4 field at 1200M at the end of June, (7) CLEAN UP KING can make an immediate impact here. Most likely content to let others lead, he has strong finishing speed and the lightly raced three-year-old can win this. (1) MENI MUSIC hasn’t quite lived up to her early potential but is always well backed and generally gives a good account of herself. She will set the pace here and winning this is within her scope. (8) JEWELRY PARK was a well-beaten 3rd of 7 on her first try at this level last month but with champion jockey Moon Se Young returning to the ride, she’ll have backers to make amends here. (2) HUIMANG ROCKET, up in class after a solid win, and (6) NORTHERN HOJAE best of the rest.

Selections (7) Clean Up King (1) Meni Music (8) Jewelry Park (2) Huimang Rocket
Next Best 6, 5
Outsiders 3, 4
Fast Starters 1, 2, 5

Busan Race 4: Class Open – The Owners’ Cup (KOR G3) – 1600M / Weight for Age / KRW 400 Million / 15:30 (SIN)

(5) TRIPLE NINE has suffered unexpected reverses in his last two races but he will still be heavy favourite to triumph here. He won Korea’s richest race last year and beat Success Story by a nose in the 1800M Mayor’s Cup last start. He is the one to beat. (8) SUCCESS STORY landed two 3rd place finishes at the Dubai World Cup Carnival earlier this year and since returning to Korea has added two more 3rd places. He’ll be on speed early as ever and this time can go at least one better. (10) ROCK BAND is Triple Nine’s stablemate and was his big rival last autumn before injury saw him out of action for several months. He returned in June and was back in the winner’s circle in July winning an admittedly indifferent handicap over 1800M. With a bit more progress he will be competitive again here. (4) GUMPO SKY was well beaten in the Mayor’s Cup but remains a danger and will be on the early speed. (7) CHEONJI PARK is an improver and looks to be the wildcard.

Selections (5) Triple Nine (8) Success Story (10) Rock Band (4) Gumpo Sky
Next Best 7
Outsiders 1, 2, 3, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 4, 8, 10

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:00 (SIN)

It took (4) BOEUN YONGSA ten goes to get his maiden victory but once he did, another win followed right away at class and distance and he’s got every chance of making it three in a row here. Although he did win at class 4 carrying this weight, today he’s giving plenty away, including 5kg to (8) FORMER MISSION. The US import by Temple City is up in class following his own maiden win on July 17th. The class gap shouldn’t be a problem and the increased trip should be to his advantage. (2) REWARD HIGH is up in class following her maiden win at the ninth time of asking and can be competitive at this level while (7) KWAESOK POWER completes the set of those at this level for the first time and is a winner at this distance.  (1) TRIPLE SHINING should improve today in more favourable company than his last two outings.

Selections (8) Former Mission (4) Boeun Yongsa (2) Reward High (1) Triple Shining
Next Best 7, 3
Outsiders 5, 6
Fast Starters 1, 5

Seoul Race 11: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 120 Million / 16:30 (SIN)

A disappointingly small field here as Seoul’s class 1 contingent remains in its boxes instead of facing (7) CLEAN UP JOY, who will be a prohibitive favourite to maintain his 100% record at his home track this year. He was beaten by Triple Nine and Success Story by a length in the Busan Mayor’s Cup last month but is superior to his rivals here even if he is giving them all a minimum of 8kg. That weight is perhaps the only doubt and should anyone wish to take him on they should look to YTN Cup winner (5) MISO WANGJA who is still a work in progress with plenty of potential. (3) BEST RUN and (4) WINNING ANDY are other candidates for places.

Selections (7) Clean Up Joy (5) Miso Wangja (3) Best Run (4) Winning Andy
Next Best 1, 6, 2
Fast Starters 2, 5

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 31)

Just Seoul today and it’s full fields for almost all 15 races as the capital track prepares to take a break next week. There are 15 races from 10:50 to 18:00 with the feature being the Ilgan Sports Cup.

English race cards are here. Notes on selected races below:

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

Competitive race and dropping back to 1000M following a couple of months off after a good 2nd place at 1200M is (6) ONGNYEOBONG and she has as good a chance as any here. She’ll be off to a fast start along with (5) GANGHO CHEONNYEON, who should build on his 5th from last time. (12) MASANG GWIJAE is yet to win in six outings but comes in after back to back 2md places and could make the breakthrough here despite the unfavourable draw. (1) CHOROK YEOLMAE and (8) BALGEUN NAEIL best of the rest.

Selections (6) Ongnyeobong (12) Masang Gwijae (5) Gangho Cheonnyeon (1) Chorok Yeolmae
Next Best 8, 7, 3, 9
Outsiders 2, 4, 10, 11
Fast Starters 2, 3, 4, 6

Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:30 (KST)

Just fillies here and another really competitive event. (3) MORNING SKY and (8) SEOUL QUEEN have both come close to adding to their solitary wins in recent starts and both will be expected to go well here. They will both look to come from just off a pace that could well be set by (1) CLEANUP SEED, beaten two lengths by Seoul Queen last start and who should look to get closer today. (10) CHERRY PICKER was another also-ran that day who can improve while (7) SILVERGRAY CAT is back up to this distance following a pair of decent results at 1000M.

Selections (3) Morning Sky (8) Seoul Queen (1) Cleanup Seed (10) Cherry Picker
Next Best 7, 4, 12, 6, 5
Outsiders 2, 9, 11
Fast Starters 1, 4, 5, 7

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:00 (SIN)

(1) DANGCHANBISANG beat (12) DIDORPHIN by just over two lengths as the pair raced 2nd and 4th over 1300M on June 26th. The latter has four 2nd places from nine outings but will be well backed once more to finally make a breakthrough. A big danger is class winner (11) BEST TAKER, who came very close to adding another victory in a narrow finish at 1400M last month. Those three should be market leaders although (4) BOM DONG I and (7) TWO KAY also have claims.

Selections (11) Best Taker (12) Didorphin (1) Dangchanbisang (7) Two Kay
Next Best 4, 9, 2, 5
Outsiders 3, 6, 8, 10
Fast Starters 2, 3, 7

Race 8: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:30 (KST)

With four wins from six so far, all of them at this distance and most recently at this class, (4) MIDAS ROAD is very much the one to beat here. He looks a talent at this minimum distance. Main danger is (7) GEUMA BALIOS, who drops back to 1000M for the first time since last year and looks an intriguing entry. (8) OUR CAT was 3rd to Midas Road last time and can match that here while (3) MUHANDOMA and (10) FORESTRY, the latter last in that race behind Midas Road, needing what was his first start of the year, the others with scope for improvement.

Selections (4) Midas Road (7) Geuma Balios (8) Our Cat (3) Muhandoma
Next Best 6, 10, 12, 9
Outsiders 1, 2, 5, 11
Fast Starters 3, 4, 6

Race 9: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:00 (KST)

A long-shot winner over 1000M on June 26th, absolutely flying home from off the pace, (10) CHUGJE HANMADANG requires more respect today and has every chance of making in two in a row. (6) CITY WOLF is yet to win in nine but has two 2nd place finishes from his last three and should set the pace here. (5) FINE TODAY looks capable in this company with (3) PRO MATHEUS looking best of the rest.

Selections (10) Chugje Hanmadang (6) City Wolf (5) Fine Today (3) Pro Matheus
Next Best 2, 9, 1, 11
Outsiders 4, 7, 8, 12
Fast Starters 2, 6
Race 10: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:30 (KST)

(9) HOMERUN MAKER won her first two all the way back around the turn of 2014/2015. Since retuning in March this year she’s been 2nd in three of four starts and looks poised to return to the winner’s circle here. If it is to be another 2nd for Homerun Maker then (6) SWEEP TROPHY looks the one to take advantage. He comes in following solid placings in his last two and he should go well in this company. (2) YONGCHONG is up in class following a good win at this distance in June and can be considered as can (5) PRIME GOLD and (7) CHEONGCHUN YEOLCHA.

Selections (9) Homerun Maker (6) Sweep Trophy (2) Yongchong (5) Prime Gold
Next Best 7, 11, 3, 8
Outsiders 1, 4, 10, 12
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 4

Race 11: Class 4 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 16:00 (KST)

Another very competitive race to conclude and (2) SPECIAL RUNNER, up in class following victory at 1400M on June 25th can be considered for an immediate impact at this level. It won’t be easy. (4) TOTAL WALKER and runner-up specialist (6) IGWANGSASEOK have strong claims too with both proven money winner at this level even if they have just one win between them prior to today. (3) WHIZ BROWN and (5) JWACHEONGNYONG are others who can go close.

Selections (2) Special Runner (4) Total Walker (6) Igwangsaseok (3) Whiz Brown
Next Best 5, 11, 12, 7
Outsiders 1, 8, 9, 10
Fast Starters 3, 11

KNN Cup Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (July 24)

Sunday sees the 2nd leg of the 2016 Queens Tour and a strong challenge has headed south from Seoul to Busan for the KNN Cup, which will be run over a mile. Also, three Korea-trained horses are in Singapore for this afternoon’s KRA Trophy at Kranji Racecourse.

img_20160722_130847.jpg

For the first time ever in Korea, a “contest” – not actual betting which remains illegal – will be offered on an overseas race, the KRA Trophy in Singapore

Of those three, it is Busan-based Triple Five that looks to have the most chance of making an impact in what looks a tough race over 1200M. The race will be beamed back live to Korea where punters are being offered a free to enter betting “event”. Plenty going on at home though and English racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races at Seoul and Busan, including the KNN Cup below:

Busan Race 1: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

A comfortable winner on debut over 1000M last month, (3) ICE MARINE steps up in class and is favourite to land this all-filly contest. She should be on speed early and can lead all the way. (8) HWANGGEUM GEOTAP beat (6) TEXAS RUSH and (9) WINNING GILI at 1300M on Jun 24th. All three are accordingly up in class today and Hwanggeum Geotap is favoured to be most suited to this level and looks a danger again. Among those with experience of this class, (7) CHALLANHAN ACE and (10) VICAR HOPE, the latter of whom struggled in wet conditions last start, look the best while front-runner (1) LION PARK can’t be discounted either.

Selections (3) Ice Marine (8) Hwanggeum Geotap (10) Vicar Hope (7) Challanhan Ace
Next Best 6, 1, 2, 4
Outsiders 5, 9, 11, 12
Fast Starters 1, 3

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

A winner on debut, Brian Dean’s (3) JUNGL DRUMMER couldn’t follow up when favourite for his first try at this class on June 25th, finishing 4th. Since then, he’s gone back to trial – which he won – and he should be given another chance here. (8) DOLCE VITA beat (1) MINSON as they finished 2nd and 3rd respectively at class and distance in June. Minson is slightly favoured here. (4) GEUMTAEPUNG and (10) YAHO GIANT look best of the rest.

Selections (3) Jungl Drummer (1) Minson (8) Dolce Vita (10) Yaho Giant
Next Best 4, 7
Outsiders 2, 5, 6, 9
Fast Starters 3, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 13:50 (KST)

Thomas Gillespie’s (1) HANEOLUI JILJU was the easy winner of a weak race at class and distance on July 3rd and should really have too much against similar opposition today. (9) PRIVATE DANCER saw a run of three straight wins come to an end last time out but can be given another chance here while similarly (6) GABOGAPJJANG disappointed when favourite on his return from five months out last month but can go better today. (7) LET’S WIN is yet to, but has shown promise in two outings and looks ready to try this distance again. A $50,000 purchase and impressive in trials, (3) B.K PARK may be considered on debut.

Selections (1) Haneolui Jilju (9) Private Dancer (7) Let’s Win (6) Gabogapjjang
Next Best 3, 11, 10, 2
Outsiders 4, 5, 8, 12
Fast Starters 1, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:40 (KST)

Competitive race this but despite being beaten into 4th when favourite last time we’ll make (2) DOCHI, who tries this distance for the first time, the slight favourite. He started badly last time but should be on the early speed here. (8) MAKGANG JILJU is also up in distance following a solid 3rd last start and can be considered. (3) NOBLE WARRIOR was a class and distance winner just two weeks ago and should go well again – he does carry an extra 3.5kg though. (1) YEONGUNG CHULGYEOK and (7) RUN STAR also look capable.

Selections (2) Dochi (3) Noble Warrior (8) Makgang Jilju (1) Yeongung Chulgyeok
Next Best 7, 11, 12, 6, 4
Outsiders 5, 9, 10
Fast Starters 2, 3

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:05 (KST)

Up in class following two consecutive wins, (7) GOLD MORNING looks very much the one to beat here. She should make all. (8) RAON ROUIS and (9) SSONSALGACHI are capable and should be competitive while (3) SHINE CLOVER and (6) BARWONJI can find at least the places. Two others up in class following wins are (5) S CLASS and (10) SOKBO WANGJA and both have a bit to find today.

Selections (7) Gold Morning (8) Raon Rouis (9) Ssonsalgachi (10) Sokbo Wangja
Next Best 3, 5, 6, 2
Outsiders 1, 4, 11
Fast Starters 3, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 3 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 15:30 (KST)

(6) TOP FIGHTER beat (1) GUMPO MIRACLE (and three others who go again here) by a full ten lengths at class and distance on June 26th. However, while Top Fighter may well end up being favourite, he carries an extra 5kg today and that may be enough to give Gumpo Miracle the edge. (7) BOHEMIAN was another of those beaten that day but can be given another chance here while (2) GOSOK JILJU and (8) MORNING GANGJA look best of the rest.

Selections (1) Gumpo Miracle (6) Top Fighter (7) Bohemian (2) Gosok Jilju
Next Best 8, 4
Outsiders 3, 5
Fast Starters 3, 7

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:55 (KST)

Small but very competitive field. (6) THEME DEUNGGEUK, an also ran in the Korean Derby, is up in class after a facile win at 1300M last month and looks an intriguing prospect here. He will have to deal with another intriguing prospect in the shape of (7) SEOMGWANGI, who tries this distance for the first time following a solid 2nd place at 1200M at this class a month ago. (4) SPACE SHUTTLE and (8) MUSOE are proven at the distance and will be dangerous while (3) INBEACTIVE looks best of the rest.

Selections (7) Seomgwangi (6) Theme Deunggeuk (8) Musoe (4) Space Shuttle
Next Best 3, 5
Outsiders 1, 2
Fast Starters 6, 7

Busan Race 5: Class Open – The KNN Cup (KOR G3) /1600M / Allowance (Fillies & Mares) / KRW 400 Million / 16:30 (KST)

The 2nd leg of the Queens’ Tour and many see this as a contest between the winner of the 1st leg (14) BICHUI JEONGSANG and (8) NEW YORK BLUE. The latter was 3rd in that race, the Ttukseom Cup and has home-track advantage this time. Bichui Jeongsang looks strong though and the wide gate shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Both look very competitive as does TJK Trophy winner (1) AREUMDAUNDONGHAENG who champion jockey Moon Se Young returned a week earlier than expected from injury in order to ride. Last year’s Oaks winner (4) JANGPUNG PARANG was 5th in the Ttukseom Cup and will be more suited to today’s distance. (13) MS. MARGAUX and (6) SILVER WOLF are among a number of others set to be dangerous.

Selections (14) Bichui Jeongsang (8) New York Blue (13) Ms. Margaux (1) Areumdaundonghaeng
Next Best 4, 6, 9, 15, 11, 5
Outsiders 2, 3, 7, 10, 12
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6, 11, 12

Seoul Race 9: Class 2 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 17:00 (KST)

(8) CHANG SE is up in class following a smart win at 1200M a month ago. Back in March, she won the Sports Seoul Oaks Trial at this distance and it’s hard to see her getting beaten here. The experienced pair of (1) OSAENG MYEONGJANG and (9) CLEAN UP STAR can be competitive in this company while (4) GREY KAISER and (5) BLACK DIA are others to take into consideration.

Selections (8) Chang Se (9) Clean Up Star (1) Osaeng Myeongjang (4) Grey Kaiser
Next Best 5, 2, 7
Outsiders 3, 6
Fast Starters 4, 6, 8

Busan Race 6: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 17:30 (KST)

(1) READY WHEN YOU ARE was surprisingly beaten by Power Bullet last start at 1400M having led for most of the way, but coming in after seven weeks off and back at 1200M today, can reverse that form. (6) MORNING DAERO and (7) WORLD LOVE are capable at this class and can go close. (3) POKPUNG CHOEGANG has beaten plenty of these recently and while the new apprentice jockey may deter some, there’s no reason why he can’t perform well.

Selections (1) Ready When You Are (6) Morning Daero (3) Pokpung Choegang (7) World Love
Next Best 8, 4
Outsiders 2, 5
Fast Starters 1, 2, 5

Seoul Race 10: Class 1 / 2000M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 18:00 (KST)

Really competitive event to end with and while (3) SPACE PORT was overmatched in last month’s Busan Mayor’s Cup and is carrying 59kg today, he should still be very competitive. At the other end of the weight scale, (5) GOLDHOLIC looks beautifully in here and should have a chance. (8) BICHUI WANGJA will be on speed early and could go all the way while (7) IMPETUS and the returning from a short spell (2) DAEHAN JANGGUN could also be dangerous.

Selections (5) Goldholic (3) Space Port (8) Bichui Wangja (7) Impetus
Next Best 11, 9, 2, 12
Outsiders 1, 4, 6, 10
Fast Starters 4, 8

Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 23)

It’s evening racing at Seoul on Saturday. 12 races from 14:00 to 21:00. There’s also a card of pony racing on Jeju.

English racecards are here. Notes on races 1-9 at Seoul below:

Race 1: Class 6 / 1200M / Allowance / KRW 60 Million / 14:00 (KST)

(4) DAEGI SOKDO was 2nd on debut on June 26th and while well beaten by a good winner, will be strong favourite to go one better today. (9) MIGHTY MAMBO was 5th in that very same race, following on from an encouraging 4th on debut and can get closer today. All except one of the rest are debut-makers and among them (5) REBECCA and (6) DOUBLE A looked best in trials.

Selections (4) Daegi Sokdo (9) Mighty Mambo (5) Rebecca (6) Double A
Next Best 3, 1
Outsiders 2, 7, 8
Fast Starters 1, 4

Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 14:45 (KST)

(4) LUCKY EYE has shown the most of these so far and while she could only manage 3rd when sent off as favourite over 1200M last month, back at the minimum distance today she is very much the one to beat again, (2) FIRE BALL looked promising when less than a length behind Daegi Sokdo, who we saw in race 1, last time and can go close while (5) PRIVATE PARK and (7) GASOKDOLPUNG look to have scope for development. Returning from eight weeks out, (1) BONGWHA DON should also like the drop back in distance.

Selections (4) Lucky Eye (2) Fire Ball (5) Private Park (7) Gasokdolpung
Next Best 1, 3, 11, 8
Outsiders 6, 9, 10, 12
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 6

Race 3: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 15:30 (KST)

Two standouts here and we’ll go with (2) CLAY SHOOT to just get the better of (3) NEULPUREUN KOKO. Both fillies enter having come close to their first win and both will be on the early speed. Best of the rest is (5) GWACHEON WONDER, 5th at the distance last time and capable of better here. (7) AGAIN SINHWA has been well supported in both his starts so far but is yet to perform. An apprentice jockey takes some weight off today and he’ll be backed once more. (8) CHOEGOUI CHANSA returned from six months out in June and looked promising and can go better today.

Selections (2) Clay Shoot (3) Neulpureun Koko (7) Again Sinhwa (5) Gwacheon Wonder
Next Best 8, 10,
Outsiders 1, 4, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 3, 7

Race 4: Class 6 / 1300M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 16:20 (KST)

With two 3rd places among her past three, (7) CHEONJI GONGSA is the pick to get it right today. She’ll come from behind the early speed and can finish strongly. On the speed will be the main danger (3) MENI VET, the only one of these with 2nd place to her name and not without a chance of finally making the breakthrough. (4) LION WINNER is consistent and should find the money again with (2) PUREUN SIDAE also likely to be involved. (5) EONJE EODISEONA and (10) CHOEGODA DANGSIN put in creditable debuts last month on which they can both build.

Selections (7) Cheonji Gongsa (3) Meni Vet (2) Pureun Sidae (4) Lion Winner
Next Best 10, 5, 8, 6
Outsiders 1, 9, 11
Fast Starters 3, 6, 9

Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 17:10 (KST)

Competitive race here in which any number have claims. (3) SAETBYEORI and (7) ELECTRIC CHROME both come in following 2nd place finishes last start. Saetbyeori is generally quicker away and that could be key here. (1) YEOUI KING makes a quick return following a dreadful effort just two weeks ago and should go better today. (9) BRAVO JINSEONMI and (10) NEW NANCHO looks best of the rest.

Selections (3) Saetbyeori (7) Electric Chrome (1) Yeoui King (9) Bravo Jinseonmi
Next Best 10, 4, 5
Outsiders 2, 6, 8
Fast Starters 2, 3, 9

Race 6: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 17:50 (KST)

This race is open to imports but the favourites are likely to be the Korean-bred runners who have won their way up this level. (5) BONGHWA SARANG and (1) KKUM KAERA were both winners at this distance on their respective last starts and both should go well here with Bonghwa Sarang the slight pick. (10) TIZ KING and (2) OPEN BANK also have strong claims while the best of the imports is (4) GANGTA, who is yet to win but is quick and should be looking for a career-best finish here.

Selections (5) Bonghwa Sarang (1) Kkum Kaera (4) Gangta (10) Tiz King
Next Best 2, 6, 11
Outsiders 3, 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 1, 2, 7, 8

Race 7: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 18:30 (KST)

Another competitive event, this one for fillies & mares only. (1) BEST QUEEN is the slight pick having come from well off the pace to finish a strong 2nd on June 18th over 1400M. So long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do here, she has strong claims. (8) BOKDEOGI is up in class and distance following her maiden win over 1200M and should be competitive while (3) GEUMGOKSEONG can improve on a 4th place in a similar event last month. (4) HEEL TOWER and (6) ECTON GAYA are among others capable of finding the money.

Selections (1) Best Queen (8) Bokdeogi (3) Geumgokseong (6) Ecton Gaya
Next Best 4, 2, 5
Outsiders 7, 9
Fast Starters 3, 4, 8, 9

Race 8: Class 5 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 19:00 (KST)

(5) CHOWON GANGTA is up in class following victory on his return from almost a year out and he can be considered once more today. (8) HONEY BUTTER NINO was slightly disappointing in a tough race at this distance last month and should go much better today while (6) WELLBEING STORY proved he can be competitive at this class with a battling 4th last time out and can build on it here. (2) WANJEON MUGYEOL and (7) LUCKY SHARP may also provide some interest.

Selections (5) Chowon Gangta (8) Honey Butter Nino (6) Wellbeing Story (7) Lucky Sharp
Next Best 2, 9
Outsiders 1, 3, 4
Fast Starters 2, 4, 6, 9

Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 19:30 (KST)

Another really competitive one but Brian Dean’s (7) MUHUDAEJE looks superior having beaten two of these when winning over 1800M last month. (1) NIGHTOUTONTHETOWN, 4th in that race, and (10) ROYAL JIBBLY look to be the main dangers, the latter being a class and distance winner and racing for the first time since a 5th place in the YTN Cup at the end of May. (6) USEUNG HOUSE and (9) NAESARANG DAMYANG look best of the rest.

Selections (7) Muhudaeje (1) Nightoutonthetown (10) Royal Jibbly (6) Useung House
Next Best 9, 8, 4
Outsiders 2, 3, 5, 11
Fast Starters 1, 8

Triple Crown Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 17)

Sunday is potentially Triple Crown day. Power Blade aims to add the Minister’s Cup to his KRA Cup Mile and Korean Derby triumphs at Seoul Racecourse at 2.20pm.

There is plenty more happening though. English Racecards are here. Notes on selected races as follows:

Busan Race 1: Class 5: 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

Open contest to begin with but we’ll make (10) YUSEONG VICTORY, 3rd in a similar contest last month and with the in-form Seo Seung Un on board the slight favourite to prevail. (6) WHITTE QUEENS was 2nd in Busan’s top juvenile race last year but only ran one more time before getting injured and requiring surgery. She’s back after eight months out, looked recovered in trials and is a contender. Also back after a spell, albeit not as long is (8) GIGA SPEED. A winner at this class in March he was very sharp in a trial last weekend and is a contender here. The up-in-class (2) NORTHERN TRACE can go close as can (4) TRIPLE PARTY.

Selections (10) Yuseong Victory (6) Whitte Queens (8) Giga Speed (2) Northern Trace
Next Best 4, 3, 5, 11
Outsiders 1, 7, 9, 12
Fast Starters 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(2) SILVERGRAY CAT beat (5) CHEONJI TAP and (4) NAREUSYA QUEEN as the three of them raced 2nd, 3rd & 4th at class and distance on June 19th. Cheonji Tap led for much of the way that day and we’ll go for her to lead all the way this time. Aside from those three, Brian Dean’s (9) HAPPY EAGLE, who was stepped up to 1200M for his first attempt on class 5 last month, should be happier back at 1000M today while (1) PERFECT BIC C has struggled of late but is another for whom the distance should suit.

Selections (5) Cheonji Tap (2) Silvergray Cat (4) Nareusya Queen (9) Happy Eagle
Next Best 1, 7
Outsiders 3, 6, 8
Fast Starters 1, 2, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 13:50 (KST)

Three of these are up in class today and should be competitive. (3) HAENGUN MANNAM was a solid winner at 1000M last start, has a strong finish and can go well. (7) DYNA’S DREAM has won four of her last five with the only defeat coming in the KRA Cup Mile in April. She’s had a couple of months off but will be on speed early and can go well. (5) GASI GONGJU hasn’t been seen since March when she came 2nd on what was just her second outing, coming from well off the pace. She’ll likely go forward here. None of them may be favourite though with (4) B.K. PHIL, 3rd at class and distance a month ago looking to be the one to beat. The down in class (1) GOLDEN LASS may also be considered.

Selections (7) Dyna’s Dream (3) Haengun Mannam (4) B.K. Phil (5) Gasi Gongju
Next Best 2, 1, 6, 8
Fast Starters 5, 7

Seoul Race 6: Class Open “The Minister’s Cup” / 2000M / Allowance, 3yo Colts & Fillies / KRW 500 Million / 14:20 (KST)

The final leg of the 2016 Korean Triple Crown sees (7) POWER BLADE looking to complete the set having been a dominant winner of both the KRA Cup Mile and the Korean Derby. He came from off the pace in the Mile and made all in the Derby and whatever tactics jockey Kim Yong Geun employs today, he will be favourite. The main danger is his stablemate, Korean Oaks winning filly (4) OTTUG OTTUGI who is one of only two horses to have beaten him. She will lead from the gate and Power Blade will have to come past. 2nd in the Derby, (8) ZETTABYTE can go well again and should like the extra furlong with (3) STEALTH and (5) SISEON POCHAK next best in a race that isn’t necessarily going to be simply a procession for Power Blade.

Selections (7) Power Blade (4) Ottug Ottugi (8) Zettabyte (3) Stealth
Next Best 5, 1, 2, 6
Fast Starters 4

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:50 (KST)

Bart Rice’s stable is in top form right now and that should continue here with (11) SUPERNOVA IJI, who can overcome the outside gate to get the lead here and get her second win in this filly-only race. Thomas Gillespie’s (5) MAJOR SLAM, 2nd at class and distance on June 24th, looks to be the main danger although (6) MISS BLUE, who has finished no worse than 3rd in each of her last four outings may also be considered. (2) BAEDARI GOSU was 4th, beaten by (9) GO JJANG on her first try at this class last month. (8) MACH BOLT ran poorly in that race but can improve today.

Selections (11) Supernova Iji (5) Major Slam (2) Baedari Gosu (6) Miss Blue
Next Best 8, 7, 10, 9
Outsiders 1, 3, 4
Fast Starters 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:15 (KST)

Competitive race this but we’ll make (3) SSAENGSSAENG DORI the narrow top pick. He was beaten by (7) SHINING TRY when favourite over class and distance last month but can overcome that form today and win from the front. Shining Try will be a danger once more, however, perhaps more backed will be (5) CHEONHABI and (1) MR. TANK, who ran 3rd and 4th at class and distance on June 18th and who both look to have wins in them at this level.

Selections (3) Ssaengssaeng Dori (5) Cheonhabi (1) Mr. Tank (7) Shining Try
Next Best 6, 4, 2
Fast Starters 3, 5

Busan Race 4: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:40 (KST)

5th in the Korean Oaks on her last start (10) SANTA GLORIA is favoured to get back to winning ways taking on for what is the most part modest imported opposition here. Indeed it is fellow Korean breds that provide the main danger, chief among them (4) VALKYRIE, who comes up in class following a good four-length win at this distance last month and the consistent (3) SSI F STAR, who can improve on recent minor money fishes. (6) ROCKET BLADE is also up in class but races for the first time since early April and has plenty to find. Among the imports, (8) PARTYINTHEDESERT looks the best.

Selections (10) Santa Gloria (4) Valkyrie, (3) Ssi F Star (8) Partyinthedesert
Next Best 12, 6, 9, 11
Outsiders 1, 2, 5, 7
Fast Starters 4, 6, 12

Seoul Race 8: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:05 (KST)

A really open race here but we’re going to go for (12) HANBIT NARA to finally get her maiden win. She’s yet to win to win in eight starts but has been runner-up on no less than five occasions including last time at this distance. If she is to be defeated again, (1) WHIZ RUN looks to be the most likely to do it, looking ready to return to two turns after winning two of his last three. (7) RAON BOLAVEN is up in class following a win at this distance on June 19th while (4) SEOCHANG BIHO and (6) SUPER COMMANDO, the latter being the only one of the twelve who is yet to race at this distance, others to look out for.

Selections (12) Hanbit Nara (1) Whiz Run (7) Raon Bolaven (6) Super Commando
Next Best 4, 5, 2, 9
Outsiders 3, 8, 10, 11
Fast Starters 1, 12

 

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 17:00 (KST)

(4) SUN ROK is up in class today having won five of his first seven starts. He has both a win and a loss at this distance but should be on speed early here and have too much for this field. Clear second-favourite will be (2) SUSEONG CAPTAIN. He is up in class following back to back wins at 1400M and 1300M and while he tries this distance for the first time, he should be competitive. He will likely join Sun Rok in looking to lead from the gate. (5) LUCKY HEART generally comes close and can place while (1) GEUMGAGI and (3) VALLEY STAR are best of the rest.

Selections (4) Sun Rok (2) Suseong Captain (5) Lucky Heart (3) Valley Star
Next Best 1, 7, 6
Fast Starters 2, 4

Seoul Race 10: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 18:00 (KST)

(8) GOREOUS DREAM is up in class having won five of his six previous outings. He generally leads from gate-to-wore and that’s what he’ll try to do here too. He does get a jockey change for the first time due to his regular rider being injured but Lee Chan Ho is a capable replacement. Also up in class is (2) THUNDER STEP following a really quick win over 1300M in May. He has had a couple of months off and can go close here. (1) SHARK and (3) HOLIDAY DREAM have experience at this level and both can put in solid races. Joining Goreous Dream setting the early pace will be (7) JANGSAN HORANGI, who showed signs of coming back into form when racing 4th over 1400M three weeks ago.

Selections (8) Goreous Dream (2) Thunder Step (3) Holiday Dream (1) Shark
Next Best 7, 4, 6
Outsiders 5, 9
Fast Starters 5, 7, 8

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 10)

It’s a hot weekend on the peninsula with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties during Saturday’s twilight card at Seoul. It’s daytime racing today. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 13:00 to 17:00.

English language racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races below:

Busan Race 1: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:00 (KST)

Three of these are up in class and Kim Young Kwan’s (3) GABO STAR is favoured to go on to take victory once more having been impressive eon his return from surgery in June. (7) ELISHA and the more experienced (4) KARIN JJANG may also be considered following their maiden wins over 1000M but do have slightly more to find. Among those with experience at this class, (2) MUJEOK VICAR, a good 2nd ahead of (1) BIHO JILJU last time, looks the main danger.

Selections (3) Gabo Star (2) Mujeok Vicar (7) Elisha (4) Karin Jjang
Next Best 1, 6, 5
Fast Starters 1, 3, 5

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 13:25 (KST)

There are four debut-makers here but we’ll look to the experienced ones first. (4) REWARD HIGH has beaten several of these in recent outings and looks to be ready to win following a 4th and a 3rd from his last two. He’ll look to come from just off the pace. (9) KAIZEN FORCE comes in with very similar form and looks the main danger – she actually beat Reward High back in April. (12) SENSATIONAL faded badly last start when well backed but can be given another chance today. (7) CARRIER has been beaten by Reward High in each of her last three starts but can beat plenty while among the debut-makers, the most promising look to be (2) HIPPOCRENE and (3) SPIRIT OF HANSEN.

Selections (4) Reward High (9) Kaizen Force (2) Hippocrene (12) Sensational
Next Best 7, 3, 10, 8
Outsiders 1, 5, 6, 11
Fast Starters 5, 11, 12

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:10 (KST)

(7) ÉCLAIR HUMOR was a disappointing 7th on his first try at this class and distance at the end of May but comes in reasonably fresh and showed enough promise in prior outings to be given another chance in this modest company. (2) PERFECT LOVER likewise didn’t go well in his first at class 5 and should improve. The others look distinctly underwhelming with perhaps (1) RISING FUTURE and (8) ROLLING STAR most able to improve.

Selections (7) Éclair Humor (2) Perfect Lover (1) Rising Future (8) Rolling Star
Next Best 3, 4, 5, 6
Fast Starters 1, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 14:30 (KST)

After back to back 3rd place finishes, (8) HWANHUIUI BYEOL is a warm favourite to record his third win here. He will look to lead from the gate and could well go all the way. (5) AJU PUJIMHAN has been back down at class 4 for two races now and one suspects she won’t be at this level for long and she looks the main danger along with (6) SECRET ROSE, who struggled at domestic class 4 last start but looks nicely in here. (2) TAEGWON CHAMP comes in following a much improved 2nd last start and can build on that here.

Selections (8) Hwanhuiui Byeol (5) Aju Pujimhan (6) Secret Rose (2) Taegwon Champ
Next Best 7, 9, 4
Outsiders 1, 3
Fast Starters 8, 9

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:55 (KST)

(5) SUPER ANGEL has won just once in nineteen prior outings but she hasn’t missed the money in seven starts so far in 2016 and following 2nd places in her last two, beating a couple of these along the way, she’s favoured to get back in the winner’s circle here. Third at class and distance on June 11th, (9) LAKE LOUISE looks well placed to go better here while (6) SO ARA YEOWANG, who could only manage 9th behind Super Angel last start, can go better here. (7) HUIYANGSAN and (3) SINBIJEONGSANG look best of the rest.

Selections (5) Super Angel (9) Lake Louise (6) So Ara Yeowang (3) Sinbijeongsang
Next Best 7, 1
Outsiders 2, 4, 8
Fast Starters 4, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:20 (KST)

Competitive race with two standouts. (3) STEAL THE SHOW WHY was last seen running 6th in the Korean Oaks last month. She’s a proven money winner at this level and dropping back to a sprint distance should be hard to beat. (5) MAD POWER saw his unbeaten record come to an end last start, his first try at this level but he should have come on for the experience. He was beaten by (1) ILMANGMUJE among others that day and his 2nd in the race, albeit a long way behind a good winner, also showed promise. Apprentice jockey Choi Eun Gyeong has her first ever race ride on (8) FOR MY SIS and Bart Rice’s mare is a reliable type who is more than capable of finding some prize money. Best of the rest is (6) WONDERFULCHEONGHAE.

Selections (3) Steal The Show Why (5) Mad Power (8) For My Sis (1) Ilmangmuje
Next Best 6, 2
Outsiders 4, 7
Fast Starters 3, 5

Busan Race 5: Class 3 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 16:10 (KST)

(5) ACME returned from almost six months out on June 10th to run a creditable 3rd at class and distance. He should have come on for that run and has every chance of making all here. (4) CAP IN ALL missed almost two years but finally showed signs of getting back some of his old form when racing 2nd over 1400M on June 19th and can build on that today while (6) SANBANG TRAIL also looks nicely in here dropping back in distance after a couple of goes at further. (2) MACHU PICCHU tries the distance for the first time and may be considered while (7) WINNING NUMBER has suddenly burst into form at age 5 and while up in class today, he’s nicely in the weights and could score an unlikely third consecutive victory.

Selections (5) Acme (4) Cap In All (6) Sanbang Trail (7) Winning Number
Next Best 2, 1, 3
Fast Starters 3, 5

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 16:35 (KST)

(7) JEWLERY PARK is up in class having won four of six starts to date and looks to have good potential. The trouble is, she’s racing at 1400M and last time she did that she was beaten (4) SINGGEUREOUNBOM and while it’s been a long time since the older filly actually won a race, she has come very close recently and will be favoured here. Those two should dominate the betting but (6) SMART CAPTAIN was a class and distance winner last start – he carries five extra Kilograms today – and (3) DAEDOLPUNG and (5) ARGO CHAMP could make for interesting outsiders.

Selections (4) Singgereounbom (7) Jewelry Park (3) Daedolpung (6) Smart Captain
Next Best 5, 1, 2
Fast Starters 2, 3, 7

Busan Race 6: Class 1 / 2000M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 17:00 (KST)

(1) DIFERENT DIMENSION beat Triple Nine by a head – and three of his rivals here too – on May 22nd and despite carrying equal top-weight, is a deserving favourite here. He’s up to 2000M for the first time but that should suit. That May race was Diferent Dimension’s first at class 1 and the time before, in April he beat (5) DONGBANG DAERO by four-lengths over 1800M at class 2. Dongbang Daero himself steps up in class and distance today following a commanding five-length win on May 20th. In 2nd place that day was (7) SAENGIL GIPPEUM and he in turn has now been promoted to this level after a good win last month. Very nicely in the weights here, Saengil Gippeum is a contender. (10) NOBODY CATCH ME may still have a win in him at some stage but at joint top-weight here it is going to be difficult once again while (11) BATHSHEBA PARK always gives a good account of himself and should be close by.

Selections (1) Diferent Dimension (5) Dongbang Daero (7) Saengil Gippeum (10) Nobody Catch Me
Next Best 11, 3, 8, 2
Outsiders 4, 6, 9
Fast Starters 1, 6, 7

Seoul Race 10: Class 2 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 90 Million / 17:30 (KST)

It took (9) SHAMROCKER eight goes to get his maiden victory but since trying longer distances he’s now won two out of his last three and despite being up in class today is the pick to score once more. He’ll try to come from off an early pace that’s likely to be set by (3) LION STAR, who comes in following back to back 3rd places and can go well again here. Main danger though could be (5) THE QUEEN SILVER, a class 3 winner at this distance in April and then 2nd in last month’s Selangor Turf Club Trophy. (6) LUCKY MUSIC disappointed in that race but can be given another chance today while (10) ILJIN HWARANG looks best of the rest.

Selections (9) Shamrocker (5) The Queen Silver (3) Lion Star (6) Lucky Music
Next Best 10, 1, 7, 11
Outsiders 2, 4, 8, 12
Fast Starters 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 11: Class 1 / 2000M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 18:00 (KST)

(1) PINOT NOIR won a Listed and then a Graded race in February and March this year and returns to the track for the first time since. She usually aims to the the front rounding the final turn and has a strong finish. Another very experienced mare, (6) MY DAY looks to be the main danger. She hasn’t won in five outings in 2016 but has been coming closer and looks to be in form. (7) SAMJEONG JEGUK has had a couple of months off since meeting trouble in running last start and should go better with the up in class (5) DIVINE SEEK looking best of the rest.

Selections (1) Pinot Noir (6) My Day (7) Samjeong Jeguk (5) Divine Seek
Next Best 3, 4, 2
Fast Starters 3, 5

Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (July 3)

It’s Busan Mayor’s Cup day at Seoul. Full preview of one of the biggest races of summer is here. There is plenty going on. Seoul has 10 races from 10:50 to 18:00 while Busan runs 6 from 13:00 to 17:30.

English racecards can be found here. Notes on selected races below:

Busan Race 1: Class 4 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 13:00 (KST)

With two wins from six (5) HUIMANG QUEEN beat three of her rivals here when finishing 3rd at class and distance a month ago and should have too much for this limited opposition. (9) BIO BLUE returns for the first time since last November and if he is anything like his former self, he will be the main danger. The experienced pair of (6) JOINER CAPTAIN and (7) DAEHOYEOJANGGUN are capable of winning money at this level while (8) AUCKLAND TEUKGEUP, disappointing behind Huimang Queen last start, looks best of the rest.

Selections (5) Huimang Queen (9) Bio Blue (6) Joiner Captain (7) Daehoyeojanggun
Next Best 8, 1, 4
Outsiders 2, 3, 10
Fast Starters 3, 5, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 / 1000M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:25 (KST)

(1) WORLD MARK could only manage 7th when well supported for her first try at class 5 and at 1300M last start. That game off the back of a decent win at 1000M in May and back at the minimum today, she looks hard to beat in this all-filly affair. Similarly poor on stepping up in distance was (8) PEARL QUEEN and she should also be a different prospect back at this distance today. (5) BALGEUN NAEIL is yet to win in seventeen attempts but is capable of placing here following a decent 3rd last start while (7) HAENURI and (9) FRENCH KING are others to look out for. The returning (4) BEST SHOOTER didn’t impress in trials.

Selections (1) World Mark (8) Pearl Queen (7) Haenuri (5) Balgeun Naeil
Next Best 4, 9, 6, 2
Outsiders 3, 10
Fast Starters 1, 5, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 / 1000M / Allowance / KRW 20 Million / 13:50 (KST)

10) ACE MAN debuted almost a year ago, finishing 2nd behind a filly who went on to win this year’s Korean Oaks. He suffered a fracture after that but has made a full recovery and looked good when trialling last month. He’s favourite. The rest look a bit average. You can’t ignore Kim Young Kwan trained debut-makers so (1) JERAJIN, who really showed very little in trials, will have backers. (2) JEOKDOUI HWASIN hasn’t exactly impressed in six prior outings but can improve here with (6) DYNAMIC DIVA and (7) SAMHYEONGJE in a similar situation. (9) OFFICER LADY was highly thought-of a year ago but hasn’t been seen since and looked indifferent in trials.

Selections (10) Ace Man (1) Jerajin (6) Dynamic Diva (2) Jeokdoui Hwasin
Next Best 4, 7, 5
Outsiders 3, 8, 9
Fast Starters 4, 6, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:15 (KST)

Second last time out at the end of May, his best finish in ten outings to date and first under champion jockey Moon Se Young, who takes the mount again today, (6) WANGUI DAERO is the pick to get it right this time. (10) NICE AND GOOD beat (9) SUPER JJANG but they both underperformed when racing against each other on June 4th. We’ll expect better from both today with the latter slightly favoured. (1) HEART STORM and Brian Dean’s (4) SUPREME LEADER the best of the rest.

Selections (6) Wangui Daero (9) Super Jjang (10) Nice And Good (4) Supreme Leader
Next Best 1, 7
Outsiders 2, 3, 5, 8
Fast Starters 1, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 5 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 14:40 (KST)

(7) CHALLANHAN ACE will be favourite here having secured her maiden win at the fourth time of asking over 1300M in March. She’s had three months off since and can lead from gate to wire. If she is to be stopped (11) GOLD SUN could be the most likely following a promising 3rd at this distance on June 3rd, which suggested she may have a win in her at this level at some stage. (9) LOVE QUEEN is another one who should be on pace and can come close with (1) WORLD FLASH and (12) MUJEOK CHEONHA others to consider, at least for the places.

Selections (7) Challanhan Ace (11) Gold Sun (9) Love Queen (1) World Flash
Next Best 3, 10, 12, 6
Outsiders 2, 4, 5, 8
Fast Starters 1, 2, 6, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 15:05 (KST)

Another one up in class can be made favourite here with (5) SEONGUN MARU coming in after back to back victories. He is up in class today but that’s no real cause for concern and three in a row is highly possible. (9) DOUBLE J beat (2) NONEUN ACE when the pair raced 2nd and 3rd at class and distance on May 28th. They look to be the main dangers here with Double J favoured once more. Among the rest, (3) SUBAEKYANG and (6) SSONSALGACHI look best placed to improve on recent outings.

Selections (5) Seongun Maru (9) Double J (2) Noneun Ace (3) Subaekyang
Next Best 6, 7
Outsiders 1, 4, 8, 10
Fast Starters 2, 5

Busan Race 4: Class 4 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 55 Million / 15:30 (KST)

Thomas Gillespie’s (6) HANEOLUI JILJU was 4th on his first try at this class three weeks ago having won his previous two. If he gets to the front from the gate – and he should – he’ll be difficult to beat and he’s the pick here. Japanese import (10) WHITE CASTLE showed much improvement last start when running 2nd at 1000M, coming from well off the pace and can go well once more while (2) SUPER EAGLE was 8th on debut at the end of May and with a top jockey booking can also improve. (1) YONGGAM MUSSANG and (3) MISS HERO the best of the rest.

Selections (6) Haneolui Jilju (10) White Castle (2) Super Eagle (1) Yonggam Mussang
Next Best 3, 5
Outsiders 4, 7, 8, 9
Fast Starters 2, 6

Seoul Race 8: Class 5 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 (KST)

Competitive event this one. (8) HAPPY SENSATION is the slight pick having been 2nd at this class over 1300M last time. She steps up to two turns for the first time and looks an interesting prospect. She probably won’t be favourite though as that will be (5) JISANG BIHAENG. He is yet to win in nine outings but has four 2nd places to his name including one at this distance. Another yet to win in (7) YAHO MIRACLE but he has proved himself capable of placing at this level and can do so again. (2) SPASTAR likewise can beat plenty at this level and can be considered with (4) STRONG SHINE looking the best of the rest.

Selections (8) Happy Sensation (5) Jisang Bihaeng (4) Strong Shine (2) Spastar
Next Best 7, 9, 4
Outsiders 1, 3, 6
Fast Starters 5, 8

Busan Race 5: Class Open – The Busan Mayor’s Cup (KOR GIII) / 1800M / Weight for Age / KRW 500 Million / 16:30 (SIN)

The most prestigious race of summer at Busan has drawn a top class field from both tracks. (8) TRIPLE NINE went down to a shock defeat in May but can be favoured to put things right today. He’ll look to settle just behind the early speed and if he runs to his best, he can win here. (5) CLEAN UP JOY is widely recognised as Seoul’s best horse. He was 3rd in the Grand Prix Stakes last December and has won all three starts this year. Winner of that Grand Prix was (16) BOLD KINGS. He has been beaten by Triple Nine and by (13) DYNAMIC DASH in two subsequent starts and does have to overcome gate 16 but he should still come close. (2) GAMDONGUIBADA won this race last year (when it was run at a mile) and beat plenty of these in a big sprint race in May, must be respected at any distance and will have plenty of supporters. (10) SUCCESS STORY landed two 3rd places at the Dubai World Cup Carnival earlier this year and while he could only manage 3rd to Gamdonguibada in that sprint, if he gets to the front early – which he failed to do that day – he will be tough to overtake. Last year’s champion mare (3) HEBA, (7) BEOLMAUI KKUM and (14) GUMPO SKY are among others to consider in what is a very competitive race.

Selections (8) Triple Nine (5) Clean Up Joy (2) Gamdonguibada (16) Bold Kings
Next Best 10, 7, 14, 13, 15, 1, 11, 3
Outsiders 4, 6, 9, 12
Fast Starters 7, 10, 14

Seoul Race 9: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:00 (KST)

Having won two of his last three and beaten a number of these along the way, (2) LUCKY LIGHT is the one to beat here. He’s a front-runner and at this distance he should make all. It’s hard to oppose the favourite but if we are looking for an upset, (5) BEST GUY, a class and distance winner at the end of May could be best placed to provide it. He beat (1) STRONG ROAD in the process and that one can look to improve today. (8) SINGYU GANGJA beat (4) DIPLOMATIC MISSION when they finished 3rd and 5th at class and distance on May 21st and both can come close again.

Selections (2) Lucky Light (5) Best Guy (4) Diplomatic Mission (8) Singyu Gangja
Next Best 1, 11, 7, 10
Outsiders 3, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 4, 9

Busan Race 6: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 17:30 (KST)

(12) I ONE has won, twice, in two starts so far and was utterly dominant over 1300M at the end of May, beating (8) MABEE FLASHY by seven lengths. Up in class and slightly in distance today but he’s a good prospect and he should be winning this. Five of these faced each other at this distance on June 5th and (4) NAGASINDA rather unexpectedly came out on top among them, finishing 2nd. As a result, he must be respected today although (2) AJU CHOEGANG and (5) YOU’RE HILARIOUS, who finished in 3rd and 5th respectively that day, will be favoured to overturn that form here. (7) DYNAMIC TANK struggled at a mile last start but should be more comfortable today as should (11) SOUL BLADE.

Selections (12) I One (2) Aju Choegang (5) You’re Hilarious (7) Dynamic Tank
Next Best 4, 11, 8, 10
Outsiders 1, 3, 6, 9
Fast Starters 2, 7, 9

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00 (KST)

It took (4) CHOEGANGJA a couple of races to figure out what to do but this Silver Train colt has been developing very nicely, winning at 1200M in May and was then 3rd on his first try at this class on June 12th. He can win here.  Main danger looks to be (8) GAENARI who returned from a six-month layoff to score her maiden win in a very quick race over 1000M in May and she can be considered here too. (6) SKY JEWANG and (7) POWER BISEUL are both also up in class following victories and the latter looks best equipped to handle this level right away. (2) JEONMUHUMU, already a winner at this class is also capable of going well.

Selections (4) Choegangja (8) Gaenari (7) Power Biseul (2) Jeonmuhumu
Next Best 6, 11, 10, 3
Outsiders 1, 5, 9
Fast Starters 1, 2, 4, 6, 8

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-by-Race Preview (June 12)

It’s Korean Oaks day at Busan. Nine fillies will line up for the Classic race, a full preview of which can be found here.

There’s plenty of other racing happening at both Seoul and Busan. Rock Band makes his long awaited return on the south-coast, while Sotong Sidae heads the line-up in Seoul’s feature handicap. Rain is forecast at both tracks.

There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:50 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 13:00 to 17:30. English racecards are here. Notes on races from Seoul race 5 onwards are below:

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 13:25 (KST)

Fillies only here and (2) GRIFFIN comes in following back to back victories, most recently beating five of these over class and distance on May 22nd. She won well that day and can repeat but she carries and additional 4kg today and that may be key. (3) DONGHAE CHANGA could be the one to take advantage, coming in after consecutive 3rd places at domestic class 4 and ready to win at this level. (8) J ONE was just over a length behind Griffin last time and can make that up today while (1) QUEEN’S PALACE and (5) DRAGON VILLAGE are the others to watch.

Selections (3) Donghae Changa (2) Griffin (8) J One (1) Queen’s Palace
Next Best 5, 9, 7
Outsiders 4, 6, 10, 11
Fast Starters 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 5 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 13:50 (KST)

(2) TAIL WIND won a good race at class and distance on May 13th, beating three who go here and he is favoured to strike again here. Main danger could be the up in class (5) KWAEHAN YEONGUNG, who got her maiden win last time showing plenty of speed. (4) CAPITAL GANGJA is talented and can be forgiven a poor outing last month while the three who were beaten by Tail Wind in that good race in May; (1) GODAE, (11) USEUNG CHEONJI and (12) SKY RUNNER, can be given another chance today.

Selections (2) Tail Wind (5) Kwaehan Yeongung (4) Capital Gangja (1) Godae
Next Best 12, 11, 6, 8
Outsiders 3, 7, 9, 10
Fast Starters 2, 4, 8

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 60 Million / 14:15 (KST)

Small field and (4) WHIZ RUN should have the beating of them having just been beaten half a length on his first try at this class last month. (6) JOARA steps up in class following victory at this distance and is the main danger. (2) FLAME CAT can be given another chance after a disappointing run last month (behind Griffin who we saw in race 5) and will join Whiz Run on the early speed. (7) COTTON PRINCE looks best of the rest.

Selections (4) Whiz Run (6) Joara (2) Flame Cat (7) Cotton Prince
Next Best 5, 3, 1
Fast Starters 2, 4, 5

Busan Race 3: Class 3 / 1600M / Handicap / KRW 72 Million / 14:40 (KST)

(2) TARIAT TALE has won three from five so far and looks well set to add to that here. He’ll come from just behind an early speed that will likely be set by, among others, (11) PALMAUI SEONDU, who was just beaten a neck in a tough contest over this distance two weeks ago in what was a much improved performance and he can build on that today. (1) TOP SPRING has beaten (3) BADA DOSI at 1800M twice recently and both should be competitive at a mile while (7) DYNAMIC TANK is up in class and significantly in distance for what’s just her fourth start. She returned from eight months out to record her maiden win last month.

Selections (2) Tariat Tale (11) Palmaui Seondu (7) Dynamic Tank (3) Bada Dosi
Next Best 1, 9, 10, 6
Outsiders 4, 5, 8, 12
Fast Starters 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 7: Class 3 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 15:05 (KST)

Competitive event here with three stepping up in class following victories last time. Of those, (7) INSUJAE was the most impressive and accordingly is narrowly favoured today although the other two, (6) DAEDOLPUNG and (9) BINGO STAR are likely to be the main dangers. The latter two are likely to look to lead early with Insujae being given a more patient ride. The ones with experience at this level have plenty to find but (5) TONGIRUI HAMSEONG and (10) SMART CAPTAIN looking the most likely.

Selections (7) Insujae (6) Daedolpung (9) Bingo Star (10) Smart Captain
Next Best 5, 2, 1
Outsiders 3, 4, 8
Fast Starters 3, 4, 6, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 2 / 1200M / Handicap / KRW 88 Million / 15:30 (KST)

Bart Rice’s (10) TRIPLE FIVE has two wins and three seconds from five starts to date and is up in class following a dominant five-length win in a good race at this distance last month. He should have too much here. (4) FRENCH BOY, while inconsistent, showed he can compete at this level with a 3rd place in a solid contest last start and is the main danger while (8) POKPUNG CHOEGANG beat three of these when running 2nd at class and distance on May 13th and must be respected. One of these was (2) WORLD LOVE, who will be on the early speed, while (7) CHOEGANG BULPAE is another to consider.

Selections (10) Triple Five (4) French Boy (8) Pokpung Choegang (2) World Love
Next Best 7, 11, 6, 3
Outsiders 1, 5, 9, 12
Fast Starters 1, 2, 4

Seoul Race 8: Class 5 / 1700M / Handicap / KRW 40 Million / 15:55 (KST)

Since getting his maiden win last November, (2) MR MOUNTAIN has managed to narrowly dodge the winner’s circle at class 5 but can put things right today on what will be his first try around two turns. (8) CURRICLE is yet to win in fifteen but was 2nd at class and distance last start, beating a couple of these in the process and can place once more. (5) JISANGGEOTAP and (6) DEVIL MAN have both also raced well at 1700M and may be considered with (7) VICKY LIE one who may appreciate the increase in distance.

Selections (2) Mr. Mountain (8) Curricle (6) Devil Man (7) Vicky Lie
Next Best 5, 11, 10, 1, 3
Outsiders 4, 9
Fast Starters 3

Busan Race 5: Class Open / 1800M / Allowance – The Korean Oaks / KRW 500 Million / 16:30 (KST)

Runner by runner guide here

(2) OTTUG OTTUGI was 2nd in the KRA Cup Mile and then skipped the Derby in order to target this race. On Derby weekend she won at 1800M, will be the quickest away and will be the strong favourite. (4) HOSEUNGJIBYEOK will be 2nd favourite although she wasn’t convincing when racing 2nd at this distance last month and was beaten in March’s Oaks trial not only by Ottug Ottugi, but also by (9) SANTA GLORIA and (1) STEAL THE SHOW WHY. Both of those can go well here and the latter was beaten by (3) SPECIAL ROOKIE at a mile in April. Neither have run since but both looked good in recent trials. Special Rookie is a stablemate of Ottug Ottugi; their trainer Kim Young Kwan has won the race for the past three years and one way or another, looks likely to win this time as well.

Selections (2) Ottug Ottugi (9) Santa Gloria (3) Special Rookie (4) Hoseungjibyeok
Next Best 1, 7, 5
Outsiders 6, 8
Fast Starters 1, 2, 3, 5

Seoul Race 9: Class 1 / 1800M / Handicap / KRW 110 Million / 17:00 (KST)

It’s time (8) SOTONG SIDAE returned to winning ways. His win record would be much higher were it not for the fact that he is always entered in the toughest company and today offers a really good opportunity to change that. He will go back at the start but if he leaves himself a little less to do late on than he has in recent outings, he can win. (6) SEONBONG is of course a big danger. While more dangerous at sprints, he has shown himself more than capable of winning at this level and can do so again. (7) KWAESEOK JILPUNG races at class 1 for the first time and can take advantage of a light weight to secure a good finish while (4) GLOBAL FUSION and (5) IMPETUS can’t be ruled out after recent decent efforts.

Selections (8) Sotong Sidae (6) Seonbong (7) Kwaseok Jilpung (4) Global Fusion
Next Best 3, 5, 1, 11
Outsiders 2, 9, 10, 12
Fast Starters 6, 7, 10

Busan Race 6: Class 1 / 1400M / Handicap / KRW 105 Million / 17:30 (KST)

After eight months, (2) ROCK BAND is back. He won the Minister’s Cup but hasn’t been seen since running 2nd to Triple Nine in the President’s Cup at Seoul last October. He has won six of eight starts and came through trials ok. If he is anything like the old Rock Band, he wins. (6) MACHEON BOLT returns for the first time since beating two of these when winning at class and distance in February and is a genuine threat to the favourite as is (1) WONIL GANGJA wo was sent back to trial after laying out last time – he’s since completed two trials. (3) FOREST BOLD, who won the race in which Wonil Gangja behaved badly and (5) DARKEST NIGHT look best of the rest.

Selections (2) Rock Band (6) Macheon Bolt (1) Wonil Gangja (5) Darkest Night
Next Best 3, 8, 11
Outsiders 4, 7, 9, 10
Fast Starters 1, 2, 8, 10

Seoul Race 10: Class 3 / 1300M / Handicap / KRW 75 Million / 18:00 (KST)

Up in class following his maiden win by five-lengths at 1200M on May 15th, (9) CHOEGANGJA is the pick to immediately follow up here. It took him a couple of tries to figure out what to do but he now looks a solid prospect. Also up in class following victories are (2) BLAZING STAR and (6) SMOKEN JOE and both can compete while (4) READ AGAIN comes in following a victory at this class and distance, coming from right off the pace, on May 1st and can go well again. (3) JEONSEUNG DAESE struggled a little last time but can go better today.

Selections (9) Choegangja (4) Read Again (2) Blazing Star (3) Jeonseung Daese
Next Best 6, 10
Outsiders 1, 5, 7, 8
Fast Starters 2, 3, 6, 7, 9