Seoul

KOREA RACING REPORT: FEBRUARY 6-8

SEOUL – February 9, 2026 – Luke Humphreys & Alastair Middleton

The weekend’s feature race saw potentially big Sprint Series implications while a challenger approaches on the Triple Crown trail and a young filly made an impressive return.

The very final race of the weekend was the only Class 1, and it was billed as a showdown between MAGIC POTION and WONPYEONG STORM, both with aspirations of getting a place in the gate for the Busan Ilbo Sprint, the first leg of the Sprint Series next month.

When that 1200M feature finally took place on a bitterly cold Sunday in the capital city the face off never happened as Wonpyeong Storm missed the kick and Magic Potion hovered but ultimately offered little as WOW WOW (Cowboy Cal) led from gate-to-wire to score by a length from SPEED ONE at odds of 9.1 locally. The Song Jae-chul ridden seven-year-old recorded his seventh career win on his thirty-second start. Also in the race, the 2022 Korea Sprint winner EOMA EOMA, like Wow Wow also sporting the Nasca colours, but like Wonpyeong Storm the now nine-year-old was never a factor.

In earlier races, ACE K (Cupid) tackled the 1800M for the first time at class 3 level having gone no further than1400M before, but the extra quarter mile proved no problem as he raced on the pace throughout and won by an extending 13 lengths over 2.6 favourite Tanseongui Banseok. His co-favourite FLYING CRUISER was the big disappointment, finishing a long last.

GOLD CATCHER (Cowboy Cal) bounced back to winning ways when winning race 8 (1400M Class 4) for Johan Victoire and Luigi Riccardi. The four-year-old filly had never missed the top four placings prior to her previous start and proved way too good with a front-running three-length victory. The previously unbeaten SAMJEONG SPIDER started a 1.4 favourite but was a never nearer 5th after not the best of beginnings.

Also on form was PERFECT DANAEUN (Freedom Child) with a six-length score in race 7 (1600M Class 4). He had taken out four in a row before coming up against Di Ne last month but under Ruan Maia, this time he was untroubled by his rivals to take his overall record to five wins from twelve starts.

MAEUM HANA (Gaon Champ) made it two victories in a row with a front-running victory for jockey CC Wong and trainer Choi Yong-geon in race 5. The three-year-old colt recorded a time of 1:20.1 in the class 5 and looks progressive going on his five-length victory.

AMOS CHEONHA (To Honor And Serve) completed a double for that jockey-trainer combination, and was the first of two winners for owner Hong Ae Ran, when coming from well back to score in the following 1800M Class 5. He missed the break for the second consecutive start and whilst it did his chances no good it didn’t make a difference as he pulled victory from out of the fire by an extending length and a half.

RAON THE PLUMA (Indie Band), GRACE DAY (Race Day) and JAZZ PURPLE (Hansen) could be horses to follow going forward on their respective victories in the opening three races on the card which were all Class 6 contests.

THERE WAS A SEVEN-RACE CARD AT BUSAN ON SUNDAY AND CLEARLY WINNER (Hansen) resumed from five months away from the races with a stress fracture to win impressively in race 6 (1400M Class 4). 

The Park Jae-i ridden Kim Hye-sun prepared three-year-old filly raced on the pace throughout before roaring away in the straight to record a facile five-length success. 

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 8)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55, and at Busan with 7 races from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

2022 Korea Sprint winner Eoma Eoma is back for a campaign as a 9yo (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only in the opening maiden. (8) CALL ME SKY ran 2nd on debut to Holly Tiara in a quick similar filly maiden over this distance on December 13th. She’s had eight weeks off since but she can improve for the run and will be a short-price favourite to win here. (1) STUNNING POINT was an improved 5th at start two over this distance. She continues under an apprentice claim and from a better draw than in her first two outings, can get closer. (5) MISS CHRISTIE and (4) RAON THE PLUMA similarly improved to 5th on their respective second appearances and both can be fitter here. Continuing the theme of finishing 5th, (6) BEAT CODE did that on debut and can have come on for that effort.

Selections(8) Call Me Sky (1) Stunning Point (5) Miss Christie (4) Raon The Pluma
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden. (7) BANK LINE has made steady progress across three starts so far with her close 2nd last time out over this distance being her best. She led that day and from a fair draw, she can lead again and this time go all the way. (1) GRACE DAY has similarly raced three times and comes in following a 2nd place last time out when he was slower away than in his first two but ran on well. He shapes as the main danger here. (11) SEOPOKCHAT came from well off the pace to run 3rd on January 11th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he can challenge late. (9) HAKSAN HENNY and (3) BEOLGYO EMPEROR among plenty of others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Bank Line (1) Grace Day (11) Seopokchat (9) Haksan Henny
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) TRICK SHOT has led in his latest two for 2nd and 3rd at this distance, most recently beating three of today’s rivals on January 11th. He should get an easier run to the front here and will be favoured to go all the way. (11) MAGIC HAMMER was 4th in that race on January 11th. He has the challenge again of the widest gate and doesn’t get an apprentice claim this time, but third-up he can be peaking and he can run on strongly. (9) QUEEN WIND was an on pace 2nd at start number two over this distance on January 9th. She can show on pace again and once more be in this a long way. (2) BRAVE RUN and (10) MOST WANTED are the other main chances.

Selections(1) Trick Shot (11) Magic Hammer (9) Queen Wind (2) Brave Run
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Not the strongest of maidens. (5) SANGIM YEONGUNG will need his latest forgiven which was the worst of his four starts to date. Before that he registered three top four finishes, coming from off the pace each time, and similar efforts to those can see him win this. (9) K N STORM ran 4th over 1200M on January 3rd, coming from a long way back to beat a couple of today’s rivals. The same apprentice keeps his weight light and he can challenge here. (4) JAZZ PURPLE hinted at an uptick in form with a front running 5th at 1300M at the end of December. He is up to 1400M for the first time but can be on pace again and in this a long way. (7) TRIPLE S and veteran (1) P N S PA in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Sangim Yeongung (9) K N Storm (4) Jazz Purple (7) Triple S
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 7)

The temperature has plunged again just in time for the weekend’s racing. There are 11 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on experience and (6) SEOUL BIHAENG, who after a quick trial led on debut over 1200M on January 10th before ultimately running 2nd. He should have come on for that run and has every chance here. (5) GWANAKSAN SKY will probably be the favourite. He was a strong trial winner, leading all the way and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (4) BREEDO AQUA ran 3rd in her trial in a decent time while (3) RACE DIVA was a very close 2nd. Both can put in bold showings first up. (8) CHEONDUNGUI JILJU is the next best going on trial efforts.  

Selections(6) Seoul Bihaeng (5) Gwanaksan Sky (4) Breedo Aqua (3) Race Diva
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) WITH DORTIE didn’t do much on debut in December but she was a much-improved 2nd at start number two over 1300M on January 3rd when settling midfield and running on. Third-up she can be peaking and the extra half furlong can be what she needs to get over the line. (9) GLORY JOY was only 6th in his latest appearance but before that registered a 2nd and a 3rd and with the former having come at this distance, that’s enough to have him in the numbers here. (4) DOUBLE BLADE and (5) BROWN SUGAR look to be figuring things out having both finished 5th at their respective latest starts and similar efforts can see them closer in this company. (1) AMOS CHOEGANG another who can improve.

Selections(2) With Dortie (9) Glory Joy (4) Double Blade (5) Brown Sugar
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) POWERFUL IMPACT has taken very well to 1700M, registering a 2nd and a 3rd in two outings since being stepped up to the trip. From a great draw he can sit on the speed or handy and today should his day. (7) STORM LIGHT was an improved 2nd at 1400M at start number three on January 10th. She steps up to two turns for the first time, and it can suit. (6) ECLIPSE BAY enters off a 6th and a 5th from his latest two, both over this trip and both times behind Powerful Impact. He led in those races and can lead again here and be in things a long way. (10) GOLDEN MAKER and (11) SPICE BAND are other place chances.

Selections(4) Powerful Impact (7) Storm Light (6) Eclipse Bay (10) Golden Maker
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(9) CHEONGSAN DOLPUNG is yet to win in four, but he has three 2nd places to his name with the latest coming at this class and distance on January 3rd when handy throughout and beaten by a good winner. He only comes up 1kg in weight and can sit handy again and this time go one better. (2) TIGER BULPAE is similarly a maiden but has a 3rd and two 2nd places from three outings so far at 1000M and 1200M. She comes up in class but is down in weight, she draws nicely, and she can measure up. Continuing the maiden theme, (5) MIRACLE SOCKS has four runner-up finishes but weakened when tried at 1400M last time out. Back in trip and with Maia staying on, he is a chance. (4) RAON SNIPER and (1) CRAZY MANGO others to consider on a place line.

Selections(9) Cheongsan Dolpung (2) Tiger Bulpae (5) Miracle Socks (4) Raon Sniper
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (February 1)

February kicks off with Sunday meetings at both Seoul (10 races from 10:35 to 17:55) and Busan (7 races from 11.25 to 16:55). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) SUPER TTANGKONG ran a fair 4th on debut over this distance on December 27th showing handy throughout. She should have come on for that run and form a good draw she won’t need to improve very much to win this. (1) RAON KINGSMAN was 5th in both his first two starts before weakening over 1300M late on last time out. In this company he should get a soft run to the front and can go close. Both (9) VINCENT ALEX and (11) PARKA SHINE come in following improved 4th place finishes on their respective latest outings, and both should be aiming to match or better that here. The three debut-makers didn’t really catch the eye in trials with (10) ONLY YOU looking the better of them.

Selections(4) Super Ttangkong (1) Raon Kingsman (9) Vincent Alex (11) Parka Shine
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) COMEBACK HOLYMOELY has made progress across his three starts so far with a 4th, 3rd and most recently a 2nd place on December 13th when he led for most of the way over this distance before being beaten by Haksan Sword. He draws well on the inside to lead again, and he is favoured to go one better. (4) SUPERDAY has similarly showed plenty with three top four finishes in three starts. He was a close 2nd over 1300M on December 28th and should be firmly in this. (3) ROAD TO HEAT was 3rd in that race having led. He’s been 3rd in both starts and should be there or thereabouts again from on the pace. (9) PARAIBA and (5) SEMYEONG PEAK others in the frame in a competitive race.

Selections(1) Comeback Holymoely (4) Superday (3) Road To Heat (9) Paraiba
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) PORT MORE comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd over 1400M on January 9th, showing handy throughout. He comes up to the mile for the first time but there is no reason why it can’t suit, Seo Seung-un stays on, and he will be favourite. (2) DOROTHY QUEEN enters off a career best 3rd when beating several of today’s rivals at this distance on January 18th and in this company can be aiming to match or better that here. (7) BREEDO CAPTAIN was 4th in that race. He also has a 2nd on his record at this distance and that’s enough to have him in contention today. (4) CARAT KING and (5) K ROYAL other minor money chances.

Selections(9) Port More (2) Dorothy Queen (7) Breedo Captain (4) Carat King
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) START UP was a winner on debut over 1000M in September and then returned in November to run 2nd at this class over 1200M. He makes his first start here in twelve weeks so he comes in fresh and while match fitness may be a question, he seems to have plenty of ability. (6) YONGBI SHINHWA is yet to win in six attempts but got promoted to this level with back-to-back runner-up finishes at this distance before running 4th on his first try at this class when unable to lead early as he likes. In this company he can get to the front and he can be in this a long way. (1) HAKSAN SWORD got a bit too far back early on January 10th but was a good winner in December (beating Comeback Holymoely who we should have seen in race 2) and he can get another chance here. (7) MUNHAK FIGHTER and (3) SMART HAESEONG others in the frame.

Selections(11) Start Up (6) Yongbi Shinhwa (1) Haksan Sword (7) Munhak Fighter
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start5, 6, 7 ,11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) POWERFUL RUBY will be favourite. After winning a trial she did nothing on debut but was a much better 4th at start two on January 2nd when handy throughout. She should have come on for that run and third-up she can be nice and fit for this. Speaking of doing nothing on debut, that applies to (2) CLUTCH RUNNER. He previously trialed well and Franco, who rode him in those heats but not on debut, climbing on catches the eye. (12) DIA X has plenty of experience and this is the kind of race he shouldn’t be far away in. (5) WORLD TRIPLE CAT and (10) QUEEN THE GOLD other place chances.  

Selections(4) Powerful Ruby (2) Clutch Runner (12) Dia X (5) World Triple Cat
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 31)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) COWBOY SOCKS was green on debut but still ran well for 4th place and was an improved 3rd at start two over 1200M on December 6th when finishing off very well. The slight step up in trip can suit, and she can win. (7) WINNER’S BLUE led for much of the way around on December 27th before ultimately running 3rd. He should have come on for the run and from a good gate can lead again and be in this a long way. Among the first timers, (2) MONEY MOVE and (11) DELTA EAGLE both hinted at ability in their trials and can be considered first up. (3) DONGBAEK was a fair 6th of twelve on debut and can improve.

Selections(9) Cowboy Socks (7) Winner’s Blue (2) Money Move (11) Delta Eagle
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7,

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) WISHMASTER has a 6th and a 5th from two starts so far, most recently at 1300M on December 28th when showing on pace. Third-up he can be nice and fit, and he has as good a chance as any here. (8) ROAD TO PERFECT ran 4th on debut over this distance on January 13th. He was a long way back behind a good winner but showed enough to indicate potential and he can go closer today. (11) CHAOS took three goes to qualify but when he finally did, he showed on pace in his trial and stopped the clock in a decent time. If he brings that form to the races, he will be competitive. (5) NIGHT GANGJA and (6) YEONDONG STAR others who could feature.

Selections(10) Wishmaster (8) Road To Perfect (11) Chaos (5) Night Gangja
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start1, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) MYUNG BRACING has improved across three starts so far, culminating in a close 2nd place at 1300M on December 21st. He has proven able to run well form on or off the pace and from a good draw, he can go one better today. (9) FIVE STAR has four finishes between 3rd and 5th with his latest two being over this distance. He likes to settle back and run on, and he will be challenging late here. (1) COSMO LONG has steadily improved over three outings to date, most recently a 3rd to Myung Bracing’s 2nd in that December 21st race. Coming into the inside gate, he should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (10) EUNHA KALAS and (4) CHEONGRYONG GIUN others in the frame.

Selections(3) Myung Bracing (9) Five Star (1) Cosmo Long (10) Eunha Kalas
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) JD GANGJA ran 4th and 5th in a pair of Listed Juvenile races before being down the field in the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie. He kicked off his three-year-old campaign by beating a few of these on his way to 3rd place at this class and distance on January 4th and he should have too much for this lot. (4) HAKSAN PRINCE got a long way back in that January 4th race before running on too late. He does have a 2nd place at this class and distance to his name as recently as November though and warrants another chance today. (2) MASTER KWAIGON returned from nine months out to get his maiden win over 1300M in December before finishing 6th on January 4th. Third-up this preparation he can be peaking and can get closer. (8) GOLD SPINNING and (6) HOLY KAISER among plenty of other chances.

Selections(5) JD Gangja (4) Haksan Prince (2) Master Kwaigon (8) Gold Spinning
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(3) CHAM BBAREUN MAL is yet to win but got promoted to this level after finishing 2nd in both his first two starts. He took a couple of goes to get accustomed to class 5 but enters off a solid 3rd place at 1200M on January 11th. A previous try at this distance saw him lead and then weaken but he could be ready for another go. (1) MONEY FOUR SEASON did nothing in his first five outings but being stepped up to two turns has been the making of him with a 2nd and then a win from his two tries at it. He is up in class but down in weight and he can measure up. (10) CUPID WORLD is yet to finish in the top two in fourteen tires but has seven finishes between 3rd and 5th and should be there or thereabouts again. (11) SUBMISSION and (6) BLUE RAIN other place chances.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 25)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55 and at Busan with 7 races from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Geudaemaniddamyeon kicks off his 3yo campaign at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Three-year-old maidens and (9) SEVEN KAISER will be the hot favourite. In four starts, he has never been worse than 4th and he comes in off his best finish when 2nd over this distance at the end of November. He has led in all his races so far and should do the same here and this time he probably won’t be caught. (7) DELTA DAECHEON was an improved 5th at start number two on December 14th, settling handy and running on. She still has scope for more progress and can be closer here. (4) THUNDER RUN was a close 4th having led on January 3rd over 1300M. He has been in promising positions in almost all his races without managing to quite see them out so coming back to 1200M and into a good gate can be a benefit, as can Kozzi getting back on. (6) RAON THE BEONGAE and (2) CHEONG WOL others who could challenge for a place.

Selections(9) Seven Kaiser (7) Delta Daecheon (4) Thunder Run (6) Raon The Beongae
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) EUNBIT YUHOK has made steady progress across her four starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on December 28th when settling midfield early before being ridden up to the speed on the turn. In this company he can sit just behind the early leaders and can go one better. (4) CHEONJI TANK has a 4th and a 3rd from two starts so far, both at 1200M and with clear improvement in his second. Third-up, he should be nice and fit and he is a danger. (6) BLAZING ENGINE was a solid 2nd on debut over 1200M on December 27th and while it wasn’t a quick race, CC staying on will tempt plenty. (1) FLYING THUNDER and (3) X-TEN are other place chances.

Selections(2) Eunbit Yuhok (4) Cheonji Tank (6) Blazing Engine (1) Flying Thunder
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Two standouts. (10) OASIS YOUNG was 2nd on debut over 1000M in August and then returned at the end of November to run 3rd at this distance, leading both times. He comes in relatively fresh again following eight weeks off, and while he draws a touch wider than ideal, he can win. The danger draws better in the shape of (4) SOMETHING ELSE. After a solid 4th on debut in June, he didn’t race again until December and has recorded a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts back, most recently at this distance in a slow race on January 4th. Third up he can be very fit and has every chance. (11) FLYING SHOOTER beat Something Else when the pair ran 2nd and 3rd at this distance on December 5th and while the former has raced twice since without doing much, he must be given a chance in this company. (2) OVER RAINBOW and (1) MORE QUICKLY others in the hunt.

Selections(10) Oasis Young (4) Something Else (11) Flying Shooter (2) Over Rainbow
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) JISAN LABEL has a 4th and a 2nd from two starts so far at 1200M and 1300M. He did his best work late both times so the significant step up in trip can be in his favour and with CC Wong climbing on for the first time, he can win. (9) MANGEUM CROWN ran 3rd on debut before finishing well back in Listed juvenile company in October. He then dropped back into shallower waters and up to 1700M for the first time on November 30th and ran 3rd again when ridden further forward than in his opening two appearances. That should stand him in good stead here and he is a big danger. (3) LUCKY JOY seems to be figuring things out with a 5th and a 4th from his latest two and beat a couple of today’s rivals in his most recent outing at 1400M. He comes up to two turns for the first time, and it may suit. (5) THE SUN COMING and (6) BLACK SUN are the other main chances.

Selections(10) Jisan Label (9) Mangeum Crown (3) Lucky Joy (5) The Sun Coming
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) ROAD TO ACE was going well in the first half of last year before a setback kept him out between June and December. Newly gelded he won a trial in November and then led on his return on December 19th over 1300M before weakening late on and finishing 7th. He comes back to a trip over which he has placed or won at every time and stripping fitter for that run a month ago, he can win. (9) DAEROUI BIT ran a close 3rd on her November debut before winning at start two on December 19th, leading all the way. She is up in class but carries a light weight and she can measure up. (10) BLACK JILJU beat three of today’s rivals on her way to a class and distance 3rd on January 2nd and she can be in the finish again. Veteran (2) DAEHOMA along with (1) JJAK SARANG are also in place contention.

Selections(11) Road To Ace (9) Daeroui Bit (10) Black Jilju (2) Daehoma
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(3) CLUTCH MAGIC was a winner at start two at the end of November before running 3rd behind Reverence, who almost broke the track record for 1300M on December 20th. He is up 2.5kg in weight, but he draws very well to lead, and he can win. The big danger is another up and comer. (10) HOLLY TIARA was a very close 2nd on debut before running out a four-length winner on December 13th at 1200M. She comes up in class and in distance here, but the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem as she has already dealt with it before, and under a light weight and with Maia up, she can win. (7) MACHEON WORLD remains a maiden but is up in class following a runner-up effort on December 20th at this distance. She is down 2.5kg in weight and can be competitive. (11) ECO WORLD and (1) HYEOKMYEONGUIJILJU are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(3) Clutch Magic (10) Holly Tiara (7) Macheon World (11) Eco World
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 24)

The worst of the cold snap which saw Thursday’s trials run in -12C conditions is hopefully over, and Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Very bright and very cold have been the prevailing conditions at Seoul lately

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener, with all but two racing for the first time. Those experienced two will be at the top of most tickets. (9) STUNNING DOLPHIN was 2nd on debut, going down by just over a length having been close to the pace throughout. She should have come on for that and can go one better today. (12) YONGWONHAN SOLEO also ran 2nd on her debut, finding a handy position from the same widest gate she draws today and then running on. She was nine-lengths behind a very nice-looking winner, but her time was good and she is the danger. As for the newcomers, (11) THE SUN STORY probably had the best trial and along with (5) CHEONGGANG BOM and (4) SEMYEONG HEIDI, may be the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(9) Stunning Dolphin (12) Yongwonhan Soleo (11) The Sun Story (5) Cheonggang Bom
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) IKKEULIM did nothing in two starts at the end of summer but after a couple of months out, he returned and won a trial in fine order, leading all the way, on January 8th. Maia is on and if he brings that effort to the races, he can win. (1) BEST CHEONHA was an improved 4th at start three over this distance on December 7th. He has raced on pace in each of his outings so far so from the inside gate he can be expected to be at the front early and in this a long way. (2) BEST A ONE was slowly away last time and didn’t do much but wasn’t miles off it two starts back when 5th at 1300M and that’s enough to have hi as a place chance here. (7) THE SUN MONSTER and (6) CHEONJI JACKAL could potentially improve.

Selections(9) Ikkeulim (1) Best Cheonha (2) Best A One (7) The Sun Monster
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) SU BU TAI has three top five finishes from five attempts with his best being his latest when he beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place over this distance on December 28th, settling midfield and running on. He’ll be favoured to score here. (4) BEAT FRESH was an improved 3rd at start two over this distance on December 27th. Third-up he can be peaking fitness-wise and the step up in trip can suit. (5) POMADE enters off a best to date 4th when tried at this distance for the first time on December 14th. He won’t need to get much better, if any, to place here. Those three will be on top of almost everybody’s ticket in some combination as the form (such that it is) drops off precipitously. (1) GEOSEN PUNCH and (2) ROAD TO SPEAR will probably be next in the market.

Selections(9) Su Bu Tai (4) Beat Fresh (5) Pomade (1) Geosen Punch
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(5) YEONHUI HERO will be a warm favourite. He comes in having won at this class in a very quick race over 1400M on December 13th when handy throughout. Two starts back he placed at this class and distance and with an apprentice claiming 4kg, he can win today. (3) SEOBU CHAMP was an also-ran in a Queens’ Tour race over 2000M last October but has a 4th and a 1st in two starts returning to shallower waters. The win was at this class over 1400M, but she is a two-time winner at this trip and like Yeonhui Hero, her light weight, brings her right into this. (7) GWANAKSAN LEO was 2nd at big odds on December 28th, at this class and distance and warrants some respect here. (8) ULTRA DRAGON and (9) WORLD BLAME others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Yeonhui Hero (3) Seobu Champ (7) Gwanaksan Leo (8) Ultra Dragon
Next Best9,6
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) MR.CARA has run 2nd in both his last two outings both at 1700M. That brings him up in class but there is little to fear here, the two turns seems to suit him, and he can measure up at what should be at least an each-way price. (3) TANGGEURI is yet to win in thirty-two starts but it’s not impossible that could change here. He has no fewer than eighteen top five finishes, including each of his last four, all at this class and distance, and this may be is best chance yet to come out on top. (11) SEUNGNI BAROWS was a touch disappointing last time out but was going well prior to that and can be given another chance on what is his first try at 1800M. (9) STEEPLE and (6) SAVANA CHARLIE are other place chances.

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (10 races from 10:35 to 17:55) and Busan (7 races from 11:25 to 16:55). Here are the previews:

Ziggurat returns to action having won last September’s Listed Ilgan Sports (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) YUKWAEHAN SEUNGJA has raced three times for three 4th place finishes at 1000M and 1200M, settling back and running on each time. She draws nicely here, Kozzi gets on for the first time, and in this company, she can be winning. (6) NOBLE MATCH was a fair 6th on debut over this distance on December 12th having shown on pace throughout. She’ll be on pace again and can be in this for longer. (11) EODIGADO was an improved 4th at start number three over this distance on December 13th when coming from well off the pace. Maia stays on and they can get even closer today. (1) NIGHT CAPTAIN and sole debut-maker (7) CHRYSOL HEELS are others to look out for on a place line.

Selections(3) Yukwaehan Seungja (6) Noble Match (11) Eodigado (1) Night Captain
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) LOVE IN SEOUL was ordinary on debut but was a much-improved 4th at start number two over this distance on December 6th when she showed on pace throughout. Third up she can be peaking fitness-wise, and she looks to be the one to beat. (4) RAON FLARE raced on pace for the first time on December 6th over this distance and she stayed on well to run 2nd. The time wasn’t quick but expect similar tactics today and she can be in this a long way. (9) MR.CREDIT enters off a 3rd place at 1200M when settling midfield and running on and Maia climbing up today can be a plus. (6) CHEONGSAN MUSA and (2) FANTASTIC BRO others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Love In Seoul (4) Raon Flare (9) Mr.Credit (6) Cheongsan Musa
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(3) BORYEONG ULTRA MAN put in a disappointing effort when favourite over 1300M on January 4th when jumping inward and then getting caught in kickback which he seemed to resent. Prior to that, he had a 3rd and a 2nd and from a good draw and with Seo Seung-un booked, today can be the day. (5) QUEEN THE GOLD hasn’t finished in the top two in sixteen starts but she comes in following a 3rd and a 4th in her latest two and in this company should be aiming for career best finish. (1) STRONG WINNER trialed well and while he only managed 7th of ten on debut, he beat two of today’s rivals and comes into a much better gate this time. (2) CHOEGANG HAPPY and (10) SEOGWI CHOWON are the others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Boryeong Ultra Man (5) Queen The Gold (1) Strong Winner (2) Choegang Happy
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) POWER BEST has made steady progress across four starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place at this distance on December 28th when racing much further forward than in previous efforts. Expect similar tactics today, and he can go one better. (8) BLACK PEPE has a 3rd and two 4th places from his latest three. He too should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (2) PNS WORK and (7) WADALBI both improved to 3rd place on their respective latest outings and both can be there or thereabouts again. (4) JEJU PRINCESS came from off the pace to run 7th on debut over 1200M. She comes into a better gate today, and she should have come on for the run.

Selections(5) Power Best (8) Black Pepe (2) PNS Work (7) Wadalbi
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) OASIS ADELE will be a short price favourite here. Across his four starts to date he has been working towards a win with a 3rd place and a 2nd place from his latest two at a mile and at 1400M and both times beating some of today’s rivals. In this company, he should be on or close to the pace and he won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win. (2) VORTEX stepped up to the mile for the first time on December 12th and recorded his best finish to date with 2nd place, coming from midfield. He can build on that here and be in the finish again. (11) MOTHER WONDERFUL was 6th behind Oasis Adele last time out but prior to that was 2nd over 1400M and while she has the widest gate, she also gets a 4kg apprentice claim here. (6) TOP OF THE RANK and (7) YURIM SPECIAL are the other place chances.

Selections(8) Oasis Adele (2) Vortex (11) Mother Wonderful (6) Top Of The Rank
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(1) STUNNING PEARL returns to action for the first time since running 3rd at this class over 1200M in August, prior to which she was a very narrow 2nd. She trialed up nicely just before Christmas, and with Maia aboard, if she brings that form to the races, she can go very well first up. (10) GEOLJAK TIARA got her maiden win at start number four over 1300M on December 6th when on pace throughout. She comes up in class and slightly up in trip here but can be equal to both and under a light weight, she has every chance. (11) CHRYSOL STEP is yet to win but is up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes at 1200M, beaten by the favourite on both occasions. He comes down 3kg in weight and can measure up in this company. (6) ECLIPSE TANGO and (8) GRAND KWAEMA are the other main chances.

Selections(1) Stunning Pearl (10) Geoljak Tiara (11) Chrysol Step (6) Eclipse Tango
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start6, 8, 10, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (January 17)

There are 11 races at Seoul on Saturday from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

CC Wong (right) has a very good book of rides across Saturday and Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old maidens with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. (12) FLYING HONOR qualified in November but went through another trial on December 18th running a close 2nd in a quick time. He has the challenge of the widest gate but if he brings that form to the races, he is a winning chance. The experience is quite good though. (4) ECLIPSE BOSS ran 3rd on debut over this distance on November 29th, settling midfield from the widest gate and running on. He should have come on for the experience. So too should (6) HAKSAN HENNY and (5) ONNURI BIT, who finished 4th and 5th in their respective first outings and can build on that here. Returning to the first timers (1) PEGASUS KING went through a couple of trials, improving significantly in the second of them on December 18th and he should be nice and fit for this.

Selections(12) Flying Honor (4) Eclipse Boss (6) Haksan Henny (5) Onnuri Bit
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 11, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Not the greatest of maidens. After winning a trial, (3) MAEUM HANA was sent off as favourite on debut over this distance on December 14th but while he showed close to the pace he ran out of steam and finished 6th. He should have derived benefit from that and can stay on this time. (11) YONGBIGYO was similarly a beaten favourite when 6th over this distance two weeks ago. She has a 3rd and a 4th on her resume already and that’s enough to make her the danger here. Solitary debut maker (1) DRAGON MIJIN trialed up fairly, showing on pace and running 4th. He can lead here and be in things a long way. (10) SUNGANUI FIGHTER and (8) AESUNI others who can improve.  

Selections(3) Maeum Hana (11) Yongbigyo (1) Dragon Mijin (10) Sunganui Fighter
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) GLOBAL LAND was 5th on debut and then 3rd at start number two over 1200M on December 14th. Both times she has run on well from a long way back so the step up in trip can suit, and she is the one to beat here. (10) EUNPA BOOSTER enters off his best to date when 2nd at 1300M on December 20th when leading for much of the way and only being narrowly beaten. He steps up to 1400M for the first time and should be on pace. (7) BEST JOY was 6th behind Eunpa Booster in that December 20th race. That was his first start since running 4th back in June and he should strip fitter for the run. (3) K SIMON and (9) GRAY PHANTOM other place chances.

Selections(6) Global Land (10) Eunpa Booster (7) Best Joy (3) K Simon
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) HWANG GEUM EO JANG was a winner on debut over 1200M on December 6th, settling midfield and proving too strong. Je comes up in class and in trip, but he is down in weight and he can win again. (8) NUNI OLKKAYO won at start two over 1200M in November and then almost repeated the trick when leading for much of the way on his first try at this class and distance on December 13th, ultimately finishing 2nd. He only comes up 1kg in weight, can lead again, and he could go one better. (9) MIRACLE SOCKS couldn’t quite provide the fairytale ending to jockey Park Tae-jong’s career on December 21st when he got caught late on. That made for his fourth consecutive runner-up finish, and he can be in the finish again. (4) ROAD TO STAR and (2) TAEGISAN KING are the other chances.

Selections(5) Hwang Geum Eo Jang (8) Nuni Olkkayo (9) Miracle Socks (4) Road To Star
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(4) APATEU had a poor day at the office on second favourite over 1300M on December 21st, finding a handy but wide position from a wide draw and not running on. She comes into a better gate today and is back at the distance at which she got her sole win so far, and she can be given another chance. (10) WIDAEHAN HAMSEONG is still a maiden after five starts but ran 2nd to Apateu at class 6 two starts back and was then 4th on his first try at this class over 1300M. He is the main danger here. (8) UJU JEONJAENG comes back to this trip for the first time in a while and that can bring him into contention. (1) SAEROUN GUY and (9) ROAD TO A SPUR, the latter having trialed well since his latest start, are among others to consider on a place line.

Selections(4) Apateu (10) Widaehan Hamseong (8) Uju Jeonjaeng (1) Saeroun Guy
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 17:55, and at Busan with 7 races from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) SEOPOKCHAT was ordinary on debut but a much-improved 4th at start number two over this distance on December 14th when coming from off the pace. He should be peaking fitness wise for this, and he can win. (7) MISS CHRISTIE weakened having set a strong pace on debut over this distance on December 13th. She previously ran well in a trial and is worth another chance with an experienced jockey up. (2) M.J. VICTORY was a solid 4th on debut in a filly only maiden on December 27th. She should have come on for that run and makes a quick return here. There are three first time starters and based on trials, (3) EVER THE GLORY is perhaps the most likely to make an immediate impact. Among the rest of the experience, (5) BEST URBANE the best chance of improving.

Selections(4) Seopokchat (7) Miss Christie (2) M.J. Victory (3) Ever The Glory
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) CHOWOLMA returned from ten months out to run 4th over this distance on November 8th, showing handy throughout. He has had another nine weeks off but should strip fitter for that run and if he holds his form, he is the one to beat. Clear second pick is (8) TTOSUNI SEOUL. She enters off her best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on December 14th, settling midfield and running on, and a similar effort will see her firmly in this. (2) GAPJAENGI has hinted at ability across three outings with his latest a close 5th at 1200M on December 13th. He has finished off his races well and the slight step up in trip can suit. (4) LOVERMAN and (10) QUERENCIA are the other place chances.

Selections(1) Chowolma (8) Ttosuni Seoul (2) Gapjaengi (4) Loverman
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) TRICK SHOT led for part of the way around over this distance on December 5th, ultimately finishing in 2nd place. He had an even wider draw that day and if he can get an early lead, this lot shouldn’t be able to pass him. (11) MAGIC HAMMER was 3rd on debut all the way back in April and then didn’t return until December 12th when he was 4th at this trip. The same apprentice keeps his weight light, and he can strip fitter for that run. (7) PERFECT FLASH was an on-pace 4th on debut on November 21st. He too can show some natural improvement and get closer today. (1) WIND SWORD and (5) WONDERFUL PREACH others who can challenge for the places.

Selections(9) Trick Shot (11) Magic Hammer (7) Perfect Flash (1) Wind Sword
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) AMOS CHEONHA was a winner on debut over 1200M in November and followed up with a 3rd place on his first try at this class at 1300M on December 13th when he was slow away but ran on well. With a better start, he should have too much here. After winning on debut, (2) GWANAKSAN CHAMP went around in the Listed NACF Chairman’s Trophy and G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie, finishing slightly worse than halfway down the field on both. He returns to much more amenable company today and can be a threat. (3) ALIFER got her maiden win at 1300M in September and most recently ran 2nd on her first try at this distance eon December 6th when leading close to the line. She can be on pace and in this a long way. (4) BISANG BELL and (8) TRIPLE JENNY others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Amos Cheonha (2) Gwanaksan Champ (3) Alifer (4) Bisang Bell
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

(7) SHACKLE TOWN led all the way on debut to record a facile eight-length win over 1200M. She comes up in class and in trip today, but the manner of that win suggests that there is more to come, and she will be favoured to maintain her 100% record. The danger is (1) OASIS WICKY. While he hasn’t managed to repeat the win he scored on debut in five subsequent attempts, he has been close with a 3rd and most recently a 2nd place on December 14th at this class and distance when almost getting up. He carries his fair share of weight but draws well on the inside and shouldn’t be far away. (8) BLUE HUNTER won at start two in November and then ran 2nd at this class and distance on December 7th. An apprentice means she has a very light weight and if she gets a lead, things could get interesting. (5) SUN JAE and (3) DORAON SAMSON the other minor chances.

Selections(7) Shackle Town (1) Oasis Wicky (8) Blue Hunter (5) Sun Jae
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) MYEONG POWER returned from five months out to run 3rd at this class over 1700M. He was going well before the layoff too and stripping fitter for that run a month ago, his first try at 1800M can be profitable. This is a decent race for the level though with most entering off good results. (9) HWANSANGUI NARA won her maiden victory two starts back before finishing 2nd over 1400M on her first try at this level on November 29th. She steps up to two turns for the first time but has every chance of being competitive. (10) CHOCOLATE is up in class and in distance having won at 1400M on December 6th. He too should have the tools to be a danger at this level. (5) TAENGGEURI and (7) GANGCHEOL POWER, the latter a last start surprise winner at this class and distance, are among plenty of others to consider.

Selections(2) Myeong Power (9) Hwansangui Nara (10) Chocolate (5) Taenggeuri
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) GOOGLE CAR used up plenty of energy from a wide draw when well fancied last time, ultimately finishing in 6th place. Prior to that he only very narrowly missed out when 2nd at this class over 1200M. He comes into a better gate today and with Seo Seung-un on, today can be the day for the only colt in the race. (6) ARI DRAGON was a winner on debut in late June before running 2nd in a filly only race at this class over 1400M in July. She hasn’t raced since but looked well in a trial at the end of November, and she can put in a bold showing here. (3) HOLIDAY QUEEN has a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two at 1200M and 1400M, both at this class. She is under a light weight today and having drawn well, she can place. (4) LOILOI and (7) SINCHEON FREEDOM the other minor money chances.

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