Month: August 2022

Seoul & Busan Rookie Stakes Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 28)

The first big juvenile races of the year take place at Seoul and Busan on Sunday afternoon, with both tracks hosting their “Rookie Stakes”. Both also have class 1 action. There are 10 races at Seoul from 1):45 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the ten racing for the first time. The experience here is quite good though, especially (8) RAON THE HIGHMAN. After winning a trial, he ran out a narrow 2nd on debut over this distance on July 24th in a fast time. A repeat of that run should see him winning here. (3) LUCKY POWER has raced twice with a 3rd and a 2nd, the latter in a fast time. He draws well here and can go close. (9) GEUMA ALLURE similarly improved at start number two, running 3rd having led in the home straight on July 30th. She too can continue her development here.  As for the first timers (4) JUMONG CHEONHA won his trial in a good time and looks to have the best chance here. (7) SUPER FINISH also showed a bit of speed when runner-up in the second of his two trials and can go well first-up.

Selections(8) Raon The Highman (3) Lucky Power (9) Geuma Allure (4) Jumong Cheonha
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

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

More juvenile maidens. (8) NAOL SNIPER has a 4th and a 2nd in two starts so far, running on well both times. He looks to have more improvement in him and can be winning here. (1) DUSON CLASSIC is the main danger. She has a 2nd and a 3rd from her two appearances, the latter when she led until the final furlong coming home in a fast time on a fast track. She draws very nicely and will be in this a long way once more. There are three debut-makers and (3) NANOMETA is the clear top choice among them He won a trial in late July in fine style, sitting handy and then running away from the rest. If he brings that form to the races, he will go close. (9) LAST PITCH and (4) GWANCGCHIGI are others in the frame.

Selections(8) Naol Sniper (1) Duson Classic (3) Nanometa (9) Last Pitch
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

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

Juvenile maidens open things on the south coast with all but two of the nine racing for the first time. The two of them showed ability on their debuts, in the same race on July 29th, and will have plenty of backers here. (2) CHOICE RUN is set to be favourite, overcoming gate eleven that day to get to a handy position and then come hoe 3rd in a fast time. He draws much better this time and can win. (8) SOLEDAD ran on well for 4th in the same race, finishing five-lengths behind Choice Run. She should have come on for the experience and can get closer today. (7) HONOR LORD caught the eye in trials. The heat wasn’t a fast one, but he crossed the line a full twelve-lengths ahead of anything else and he will have backers on debut. (5) KF OGONG and (9) VEREUDA, the latter a trial winner, are other first-timers to consider.

Selections(2) Choice Run (8) Soledad (7) Honor Lord (5) KF Ogong
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) FLASH THUNDER was an all the way winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 4th on July 23rd on his first try at this level, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and should have enough early speed to get to the lead. (9) NEMO PRINCE comes up in class having won at start number two over 1000M on July 30th when he settled back and ran on. The extra furlong can suit and under a light weight, he should be competitive. (7) MAIN OF KING is yet to win but has placed in two of his latest three outings, all at 1300M. He’ll be challenging Flash Thunder for the early lead and should be in this a long way. (2) G STAR and (1) MAESTRO are among others in contention for at least a place.

Selections(8) Flash Thunder (9) Nemo Prince (7) Main Of King (2) G Star
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start7, 8, 11, 12

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

Fillies only here. (3) WISH LUCK has made steady progress over her six starts so far culminating with a 3rd place over 1300M on July 29th. She tends to get a bit far back in her races, but she looks nicely in here and today can be her day. (4) AREUMDAUN INYEON will be expected to improve off her 6th place on debut. She was favourite that day following a trial win and given the trainer/jockey combination, it will be no surprise if she is again here. (2) WONDERFUL OCEAN was a close 2nd two starts back and then an 4th on her latest on July 29th. She comes into a nice gate here and can go close. Plenty of others enter with their recent form reading relatively well and (10) PRETTY CHARM and (11) NAREUCAT look capable of placing.

Selections(3) Wish Luck (4) Areumdaun Inyeon (2) Wonderful Ocean (10) Pretty Charm
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 27)

It’s the final week of the summer schedule so the last chance to watch some evening racing at Seoul. There are 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Last chance to use this picture for 10 months

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

Filly juvenile maidens here with four of them racing for the first time. (4) RANUT went through two trials, qualifying in the first of them but then doing another on August 12th (a voluntary trial so it may not be reflected in all race cards). She sat handy in this heat before pulling clear to stop the clock in 61.9 seconds, five-lengths ahead of the rest. If she brings that form to the races, she has every chance first-up. (1) SEOUL GIPPEUM and (2) JAEWOO SIDAE ran 3rd and 4th with just a neck between them when they debuted over this distance on July 23rd. Both should be competing again, and the latter comes down in weight with an apprentice aboard. (9) RAON THE FLATTER ran a solid 4th on debut and can build on that here while returning to the first-timers (11) GLOBAL CHANGA won her heat, leading all the way. The draw does her no favours here but with some early luck, she can be in the finish.

Selections(4) Ranut (1) Seoul Gippeum (2) Jaewoo Sidae (9) Raon The Flatter
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

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

(8) HIDDEN BLADE has hinted at ability across three starts to date, all at this distance and with a best of 3rd. She has run fair times too including her latest outing when handy throughout and finishing 4th. She can sit behind the speed here and run on. (10) GOLD POWER was an improved 2nd at start number two on July 31st, having led for almost the entire race. The draw isn’t ideal here but she with a little luck at the start, she can find her way to the front again and may be hard to pass. (7) DAECHEON BEAUTY wasn’t ready when she debuted last year but has been much better since returning in April, placing twice since then, both at this distance. She has the best finish of any of these and should be coming on strong at the business end of the race. (1) SARYEONI ROKEE and (5) GANGCHEOL BUDAE among others in the frame.

Selections(8) Hidden Blade (10) Gold Power (7) Daecheon Beauty (1) Saryeoni Rokee
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 10

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

(5) SURE WIN has a 2nd and a 4th from two starts so far, both at 1000M and both in fast times He comes up in trip for the first time, but there is no reason why it can’t suit and from a nice draw, she can get to the lead. It’s not a sure win but she will be a short-priced favourite. (4) MORNING FIVE returned from four months out to run a solid 4th over 1300M on July 30th. She should strip fitter for that run and looks to be the main danger here. (3) HWANGOO GANGJA comes in following a much-improved runner-up finish over this distance last month. The same apprentice jockey (although only claiming 2kg now) keeps his weight relatively low and he can be competitive again. (12) GEUMSEONG SPEED and (10) RAY BOLT among others who can challenge for the places.

Selections(5) Sure Win (4) Morning Five (3) Hwangoo Gangja (12) Geumseong Speed
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 12

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

(9) RUBY CAT has been consistent with five of her six starts to date ending in 3rd to 5th place finishes. She returned on July 24th from a seven-month absence, picking up where she left off with a solid 3rd over this distance when on pace throughout and having benefitted from that run, looks ready to make the breakthrough here. This is a competitive race though and in (3) ECHO ZONE, there is another with solid claims. He came from midfield to run a good 2nd at this distance on July 30th in a fast time and won’t need to improve much on that run to win here. (2) SECRET KING is a debut-maker who went through two trials, improving in the second of them. He draws nicely here to get on pace and can place first-up. (4) STAR CRAZY and (5) GRACE LEE are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Ruby Cat (3) Echo Zone (2) Secret King (4) Star Crazy
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(6) KING HONOUR has beaten some of today’s rivals in each of his last three outings, coming home 4th, 2nd and 3rd, the latter two at this distance. Last time out he sat handy before running on well for 2nd, albeit well beaten by a good winner, and in doing so posted a time for this distance faster than anything else here has recorded. He should win this. Plenty of others come in with recent form reading positively though. (1) RUNNER MONSTER was 4th behind King Honor on his latest appearance on July 2nd. He draws well here and can go close again. (4) TRIPLE JOY comes up in trip after a useful 3rd over 1300M on July 31st. He has been finishing off his races well and this can suit. (3) WONDERFUL PURGE too may appreciate the additional furlong having run on well for 5th on debut at 1200M in June. (11) QUIET CHARM among others in the placing frame.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 26)

It’s the final weekend of the summer racing schedule and Busan opens proceedings on Friday with an afternoon/evening card of 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00. Probable three-year-old Champion Captain Yankee, who won the KRA Cup Mile and the Minister’s Cup, goes in the concluding race 7. Here are the previews:

Captain Yankee is back at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the nine racing for the very first time. While we usually go with experience, debut-maker (7) ARTHUR KING IJI went through two trials, significantly improving in the second of them when jumping out beautifully and responding well when asked for an effort, crossing the line in a fast time. He will probably be the favourite and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. On the experience side, (9) K.AI ran a good 3rd on debut on July 24th, having been on pace throughout. He draws wide but has shown good gate speed so can get forward again. (2) RELEASE EDITION came home in 3rd place in that same race, just half a length behind K.Ai. He sat midfield and ran on and should have come on for the experience. (8) ILGANG DAERO has run fairly across two starts so far and along with debut-maker (6) GLOBAL SARANG, is another to consider.

Selections(7) Arthur King Iji (9) K.Ai (2) Release Edition (8) Ilgang Daero
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 9

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

(5) LOUD COLOR has made good progress over three starts culminating in a strong runner-up finish last time out at this distance on July 31st, well beaten by a good winner in Geuma Passionate, but a good four-lengths clear of the rest and in a time faster than any of the others here have achieved. She won’t need to improve much on that to win. (12) GOLDEN POINT comes back slightly in trip following a good 2nd place at 1300M on July 29th, again well back behind a good winner but in a good time. That was just his fifth start and while he draws wide, he doesn’t need to lead and should be competitive again. (10) ALPHA V has shown significant improvement since returning from four months out with a 3rd and a 2nd, both at this distance. Others have posted faster times, but she looks to have more improvement in her and Perovic climbs aboard. (11) WONDERFUL DIGGER and (7) STORM AGAIN are among others in the frame.

Selections(5) Loud Color (12) Golden Point (10) Alpha V (11) Wonderful Digger
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) GEUMA PASSIONATE led from gate-to-wire for a nine-length win on debut on July 31st, beating Loud Color, who was due to run in race 2. He comes up in class here but there is little for him to be intimidated about in this field and he will be a short price to maintain his 100% record. (9) BAEK GU has plenty of experience at this level and is rarely too far away, regularly picking up a cheque. She comes in off a solid 3rd place over this distance on August 7th and shouldn’t be too far away again. (11) HANEUL JILJU ran out a winner at this class over 1300M on August 6th, overcoming a similarly wide gate as today to score well. She only comes up 2kg for that and should be in the mix again. (7) PURPLE MANGO and (5) JEONGDUN-RO are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(4) Geuma Passionate (9) Baek Gu (11) Haneul Jilju (7) Purple Mango
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 11

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

Good race with two leading contenders. (5) CAPTAIN GOLD broke through at start number two on July 17th, making all over 1200M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be an issue, and he has every chance of winning again. (4) WORLD FOUR A also comes in off a maiden win, also over 1200M, in his case at start number four but at this class and with a couple of today’s rivals back down the track behind him. He carries his fair share of weight today but has never finished any wors than 3rd and he should be in the hunt here too. (3) POKPUNG JILJU comes back in trip following a 5th place over a mile on his latest start. He is yet to win but that was his first time outside of the top-three and he has run fast times at this distance. (7) KKUM NEOMEO can have a line drawn through his latest couple and given another chance here, while (10) NOBLE COWBOY is another who can enter the calculations.

Selections(5) Captain Gold (4) World Four A (3) Pokpung Jilju (7) Kkum Neomeo
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Another very good race, featuring four last start winners. (8) ACE SOLOMON has won two of his latest three and five from twelve in total with his latest run ending in a class and distance win when handy all the way. An apprentice jockey engaged keeps his weight nice and low and another win could be on the cards here. (5) H. DAY shapes as the main danger. She’s been super consistent across her seven starts so far and comes in having won over this distance in a fast time on August 7th when handy throughout. She comes up in class here but has every chance of measuring up. (9) DAEJI CJOICE has mixed his form but comes back in trip following recent outings around two turns, including an unsuccessful tilt at the final leg of the Triple Crown. He has won at this distance and can be given a chance here. (10) FLAT BABE and (3) TTEUGEOUN MANNAM are others who must come into the calculations.

Selections(8) Ace Solomon (5) H. Day (9) Daeji Choice (10) Flat Babe
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

This is probably the most competitive race of the day and it rally is one where you can stick a pin in it. (1) SEONGSIL SIHWA is a winner of two from five and comes in following a runner-up finish over class and distance on June 5th. She comes up 3kg in the weights, and runs for the first time in twelve weeks, but from a good gate, both of those can be overcome. (10) HANEUL GANGJA got a dreadful start in his latest outing on July 22nd, but still rallied well to finish 5th. He comes up in trip to the mile for the first time and there is no reason why it can’t suit. (3) CHOEGANG LIGER comes in under a good weight and a good gate. He should be competitive here. (4) HAENAM HAMMER, a good 2nd last time out, and (12) KING BROTHER others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(1) Seongsil Siwha (10) Haneul Gangja (3) Choegang Liger (4) Haenam Hammer
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start4, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 7: Class 2 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 90 Million

(7) CAPTAIN YANKEE could be running in the Korea Cup next week but instead the champion three-year-old, who won two legs of this year’s Triple Crown, stays back in Busan for this class 2 race late at night on a Friday that he should easily win. He carries a lot of weight, but he is a potential star and will be heavy favourite. It’s a fine field for the class. (10) CALM STRONG comes in off winning the KNN Cup over a mile on July 17th. The filly has loads of potential and should be competitive here. (5) JESSIEUI KKUM comes up in class having won at this distance on July 17th. He is nicely weighted here, and he can measure up. (9) WINNER STAR was found wanting on the Triple Crown trail but can be better here, while (6) CLEAR, up in class having finished 2nd to Jessieui Kkum, is another in the hunt.

Selections(7) Captain Yankee (10) Calm Strong (5) Jessieui Kkum (9) Winner Star
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 10

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 21)

Back to normal for the Sunday racing this week with both tracks hosting daytime meetings. Seoul has 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00 while Busan has 7 from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. We’re siding with experience though and (4) WONPYEONG TOWN, a grizzled veteran in this company with two starts behind him, will be favourite. After running a solid 5th on debut in June, he followed up with an on-pace 3rd on July 16th in a good time. He can lead again here, and it can be third-time lucky. (10) ULTRA GALAXY was 4th in that July 16th race, making his debut. He should have come on for the experience and with Moon Se-young remaining aboard, will have some backers to improve. (3) SAENAE TOWN is the pick of the first-timers. He went through two trials, improving in the second of them, crossing the line as runner-up in a fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he has every chance of making a big impression. (11) GIANT INDY and (8) COMPLETE FORCE are other debut-makers who caught the eye in trials and may go well.

Selections(4) Wonpyeong Town (10) Ultra Galaxy (3) Saenae Town (11) Giant Indy
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

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

More juvenile maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. Once more we side with experience and (6) ULTRA SOCKS, who races here for the third time and came close to making all on July 23rd, only to go down to a late and narrow victory. He’ll be leading here again, and this time can go all the way. (8) DRAGON STAR is the second favourite. He won a June trial before placing 3rd on debut on July 17th over this distance, settling in midfield and working home well. He won’t need to improve much to be in the finish again. (12) HANGANG YEOUL also seems on the right trajectory. After an inauspicious debut, he improved to 4th at start number two on July 24th and despite the wide gate, should be competitive again. Among the debut-makers, (4) RAON AMERICAN posted the fastest trial time and be considered first-up. (9) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG took three goes to qualify but looked significantly better in the latest of them and is another who can be competitive.

Selections(6) Ultra Socks (8) Dragon Star (12) Hangang Yeoul (4) Raon American
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 12

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

Juvenile maidens with all but two of the twelve racing for the first time. That experienced pair will be on the top of most tickets though, especially (2) HAMPYEONG MAN. He led for much of the way around on debut over this distance on July 3rd, ultimately finishing in 2nd place in a good time, albeit well behind a good winner. He draws nicely here to lead again and should have too much. (5) HWANGHU FIGHTER was also well back behind a good winner on his debut on July 17th, but he settled midfield and ran on pleasingly enough for 4th. With some natural improvement he can get closer today. Regarding the first timers, (7) DREAM OF QUEEN showed ability in easily winning her trial in a fair time with an on-pace showing and she looks the most likely to challenge here. (6) MOTHER MOUNTAIN and (12) CUQUENAN others who can make an impact first-up.

Selections(2) Hampyeong Man (5) Hwanghu Fighter (7) Dream Of Queen (6) Mother Mountain
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

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

Filly maidens here. (3) MONEY TAP comes in off her best finish to date when 4th over 1200M in a similar all-filly maiden on July 24th, settling back and running on. She has posted fair times at this distance and has as good a chance as any here. (6) SARANG DAMOA returned from six months out to run a promising 4th over 1400M on July 30th sitting handy throughout. She should strip fitter for that run and should be in the finish today. (7) GENTLE RULES has the fastest time among these for the distance. She got a long way back from a wide draw in that race but still ran on pleasingly enough and from a better gate today can improve. (10) BEST MAD CAM was a much-improved runner-up last time out over 1200M. The same apprentice jockey keeps her carried weight nice and low and brings her into contention. (12) MAGIC MOCCASIN another in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Money Tap (6) Sarang Damoa (7) Gentle Rules (10) Best Mad Cam
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 12

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

(2) PEOPLE POWER is set to be warm favourite for this maiden. She improved to 2nd on her second outing on July 24th when settling handy, dropping back and then running on over 1000M. She comes up in trip for the first time and from a good gate, there is every chance that it can suit. (6) MYEONGSEONG CHARGE races for the first time since last November. She had hinted at ability with a 4th and a 5th from wide draws in her first two starts and she looked well in her trial at the end of July. She will obviously need the run, but the opposition isn’t intimidating. (12) RADAR returns to action for the first time since March. She too showed ability, especially with her on pace runner-up finish on debut in January and she crossed the line first in a fair time in her trial last month. (4) MAGIC HILL has been knocking on the door of the minor money places and will be on pace with a chance to be in this a long way. (10) I LOVE HANSEN can improve on an inauspicious debut having previously trialed well.

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

Saturday’s racing is an afternoon/evening program at Seoul with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile filly maidens go here with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience for the first couple of picks though and (7) SUPREME STAR is likely to start as favourite based on her debut on July 23rd, when she led almost the entire way around, only to get caught in the closing stages and finishing 2nd in a good time. She won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. (9) HAENGBOKAN MUNMAK was well backed on debut having won a trial and ran fairly, sitting midfield and running on for 3rd. With some natural improvement, she will be there or thereabouts for this. Among the debut-makers, (5) SAENAE QUEEN went through two July trials, winning one in a good time. From a good draw, she is one of the likely pacesetters here. (6) COMPLETE ANGEL won her trail and is another who can make a bold showing first-up. Also notable among the first-timers is (11) RAON THE QUALITY. She finished well back behind Saenae Queen in her trial but is “full” sister to Raon The Spurt, who went close in the filly Triple Crown races this year.

Selections(7) Supreme Star (9) Haengbokan Munmak (5) Saenae Queen (6) Complete Angel
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

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

Three-year-old maidens and (5) TANGJA will be the favourite. He has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two having been on pace both times. He’ll be on pace here as well and after a seven-week layoff and with Moon Se-young climbing aboard, he should be ready to win. (1) HUIMANG GADEUK returns to action for the first time since January. Her best in three outings was a 5th but she looked well when runner-up in a trial in a quick time on July 29th. She draws very nicely here and could be intriguing. (9) HANGANG DOLPUNG has placed twice in four starts including a 3rd at his latest on July 16th in a good time over this distance. He’ll go close here. (7) MIGHTY ANN and (10) P N S THE KING are other potential placers.

Selections(5) Tangja (1) Huimang Gadeuk (9) Hangang Dolpung (7) Mighty Ann
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

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

(10) KINGS EYE has made steady progress across three starts to date, running 3rd on his latest appearance on June 25th when settling back and running on. He comes slightly up in trip today and it might be just what he needs to make his breakthrough. (6) K N TIZWON looks the logical main danger. He comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, most recently at this distance in a good time on July 30th. An apprentice jockey keeps his weight down again and he could well be on the pace from the start. (8) DIVINE FUTURES has shown good consistency recently and has two 3rd places to his name, one at this distance. He can settle midfield and run on into some money again. (1) JILJUUI KHAN and (5) CHEONSONGI, both much improved at their respective latest starts, are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(10) Kings Eye (6) K N Tizwon (8) Divine Futures (1) Jiljuui Khan
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 10

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

Another race with another probable short-priced favourite, this time in the shape of (4) K FRENZY. He is yet to win in twelve attempts but has no fewer than seven top-three finishes and comes in after a narrow defeat at class and distance on July 16th. He can be on pace or handy in this field and may take some beating. If he does come up short again, (2) PIEONADA is the logical one to beat him. He has a 2nd and two 3rd place finishes from his latest three outings, all off them at class and distance and has consistently recorded good times. He draws well and is a danger. (3) TTEOOREUDA was a solid 4th on her first try at this class on July 23rd. She comes down slightly in the weights here and can go close again. The up in class (1) CHOEGANG JANGSAN, as well as (8) SMART POWER are among others in the money hunt.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 19)

It’s the penultimate weekend of the summer racing season and that means Busan runs an afternoon/evening card on Friday with 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Friday

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

A competitive maiden to open with. (5) GEUMA UNO debuted unspectacularly last December but didn’t race again until this July. In two starts back, the now gelded runner has a 5th and a 2nd, both at 1200M and both times running on. The additional half-furlong can suit and third-up, he may be peaking. (7) SUPER CRACK is the main danger. His recent form reads well including his last start runner-up finish over 1200M when handy throughout. He can drop in behind the early leaders again here and play a big role in the finish. (1) PUNGUN JOHWA has similarly been improving of late, running 3rd on her latest appearance on July 24th. From the inside gate, she could get the lead here and be in this a long way. (6) MAIN BRIDGE raced once last December, finishing 3rd over 1000M. He looked well in a July trial and can go well first-up. First time starter (3) DASI YEONGGWANG among others to consider.

Selections(5) Geuma Uno (7) Super Crack (1) Pungun Johwa (6) Main Bridge
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

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

(5) S. L. KING remains eligible for class 6 because while he has won a race, practically making all over a mile back in April 2021, that was during the reduced prize-money era. After that win, he didn’t run again until this July 15th when he led for much of the way over 1400M before weakening late on for 6th. He should strip fitter for that run and can win here. (3) JEONGMUN CHITA has made good progress over three outings to date, stepping up to this trip and running a good 3rd two weeks ago in a time quicker than any of the rest of these have posted at the distance. He comes into a better gate today and should go close. (8) ADELE FLY came from well off the pace to run 5th ahead of S. L. King on that July 15th race. With a better start he can go closer. (7) GEUMA SMARTY ran an encouraging 4th on debut over 1300M on July 15th and along with (2) FANTASTIC YEOGEOL is a place chance.

Selections(5) S. L. King (3) Jeongmun Chita (8) Adele Fly (7) Geuma Smarty
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

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

(8) BARBELL POSEIDON may be one of just three maidens in the race, but he is favoured to change that status. He has five top-three finishes from ten outings to date and ran a very solid 2nd on his first try at a mile on July 22nd. He can settle midfield or better here and can prove too strong late on. (6) JEOKDO JEONSA was 3rd in that same race, just a length behind Barbell Poseidon. He draws a better gate today and even comes down slightly in the weights and can be competitive again. (1) MILK DAY is up in class having won over 1400M on July 29th. The mile can suit and from a great draw, he can measure up in this company. (2) GRAND CHUKJE gets an apprentice claim and can see his recent run of good form continue. (12) GEUMA INFINITE another in the hunt.

Selections(8) Barbell Poseidon (6) Jeokdo Jeonsa (10) Milk Day (2) Grand Chukje
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) HANSEN ICHEON made all for a dominant seven-length win over this distance on July 24th. He comes up in class here but the manner of that victory was such that he has little to fear here and will be a short-priced favourite to score again. (11) SINUI JEONSA was a similarly emphatic winner at class 6 level on July 1st. He too is up in class and while the draw is not ideal here, the same apprentice who won on him that day keeps the weight very light and he should be competitive at this level. (6) FLYING REGAL had a poor day at the office on his first try at this level last month. His form prior to that was good though and he is worth another chance here. (9) FUNNY LIFE and (1) COLOR WIND are others who can be considered for at least a place.

Selections(8) Hansen Icheon (11) Sinui Jeonsa (6) Flying Regal (9) Funny Life
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Competitive race with no fewer than five of the twelve coming in having won their respective latest starts. They include (3) HALLOWEEN PARTY, who is up in class following a good front-running score over 1300M on July 24th. He comes down in the weights, draws a good gate and looks to have potential for more progress. (1) FLASHY CHARM ran out a class and distance winner two starts back before finishing 3rd in a fast race on July 29th. He draws well here, an apprentice keeps his weight light and he can be a big danger. Draw a line through the latest effort from (12) GLORY KING. That was his first outing since last December and he should be fitter for the run. Prior to his layoff he was a class and distance winner and despite the wide draw, should be competitive here. (4) B. K. HANA and (7) JEONGMUN DRAGON among others with claims in a race of many chances.

Selections(3) Halloween Party (1) Flashy Charm (12) Glory King (4) B. K. Hana
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 12

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(11) UNJU HERO beat four of today’s rivals on his way to victory over 1400M at this class on July 8th. He comes up significantly in the weights today but has won at this distance before and also ran 4th in the KRA Cup Mile. He’s the one to beat again. (2) OREUDA was second-favourite that day and duly ran 2nd, his third runner-up finish in his last four starts. He draws well to be on pace and should be able to give Unju Hero a stern examination here. (5) HANEUL JEONSA comes up in class having won well over 1300M on July 10th. A previous try at a mile might have been a bit much a bit soon and he can be given another chance here under a light weight. (4) UNJU BULPAE comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes. He is down significantly in the weights and can be considered. (12) BABEL DREAMER another in the frame.

Selections(11) Unju Hero (2) Oreuda (5) Haneul Jeonsa (4) Unju Bulpae
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start2, 7, 10, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(7) ADELE CROWN and (2) GALLANT WARRIOR came hoe 2nd and 3rd when they raced one another at class and distance on July 8th with three lengths between them and Adele Crown just missing out on victory by a nose. They both come up in the weights here but can fight it out between them for the win. (10) DUNCAN returned to action on July 17th following five months out and ran well to finish 3rd at this class and distance, racing on pace throughout. Even with just ten runners, the widest gate at the 1800M start isn’t ideal but he should have come on for that run and can be a danger again here. (3) WONDERFUL SECRET is still class 4 eligible but looks nicely in here, well drawn and under a lighter weight than in recent outings. He can sneak a place. (9) YEONGGWANGUICHUKJE another in the placing hunt.

Selections(7) Adele Crown (2) Gallant Warrior (10) Duncan (3) Wonderful Secret
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 10

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 14)

With Busan taking the weekend off, the only Sunday meeting is at Seoul where there is a day time meeting of 15 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens kick things off with five of the eight racing for the very first time. The hot favourite though will be the only one to have two starts under his saddlecloth in the shape of (1) WONPYEONG KILLAR. After running 5th on debut, he ran a good 2nd on July 2nd settling back and running on. He won’t need to improve much on that performance to win here. The greatest danger may come from a front-running debut-maker. (3) BIG SMART went through three trials, improving each time and crossed the line first in the latest of those when on pace throughout. The time wasn’t fast but she has had a month for potential improvement and could put in a bold showing. (7) TAKE MUSIC also showed towards the head of the field in her trial and similarly may go well here. The other experienced pair of (6) STARLET and (5) TOHO SKY are others to consider.

Selections(1) Wonpyeong Killar (3) Big Smart (7) Take Music (6) Starlet
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 57

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

It would be surprising if (3) DONGTEUJA WAY doesn’t have a win in him sooner rather than later. He has performed fairly in his two starts so far recording a time for this distance faster than anything else in the race when 5th on July 3rd. He has trialed since then, stopping the clock in a good time and from a good draw should be on pace and can win. (7) YEONHUI SARANG has been improving in recent outings with a 4th place at this distance on July 16th her best so far. She’ll be on or close to the pace here and can go even closer. (1) NB JEONSA has a 3rd place to his name over this distance and from a great draw should be in the mix again. (8) POSA POSA and (4) STAR PRINCESS are others capable of filling out the minors.

Selections(3) Dongteuja Way (7) Yeonhui Sarang (1) NB Jeonsa (8) Posa Posa
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

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

Tricky race. (5) BLACK BEOMI just about gets the nod following her much-improved 2nd place over this distance on June 4th when overcoming a wide draw to sit handy and run on. Without an apprentice claim today, she comes up 3kg in the weights but she finds herself with a better draw and she can win. (1) MY GONGJU is another who improved on his latest appearance, running a goof 3rd over this distance in a fair time on June 12th. He has tended to get too far back in his races so far and the inside gate should help today. (7) GUK HYANG has been consistently close across her eleven starts and has posted some decent times. She will settle back and can run into some money. (2) HANGANG HERO and (9) BANGTAN YEOGEOL among others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Black Beomi (1) My Gongju (7) Guk Hyang (2) Hangang Hero
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(7) JEONGMUN PAPAGO is set to be the hot favourite here. Following an inauspicious debut, he has finished 3rd and 2nd in two subsequent starts, that 2nd coming over this distance last time out on July 2nd when handy all the way and beaten by a good winner. His time that day was faster than anything else in this race has registered for the distance and he should break through here. (6) VICTORY SAM is two starts into a comeback following almost a year out. She’s been on pace in both of them and stayed on fairly for 4th over 1300M on July 2nd. She should be at peak fitness for this, can lead again and be in it a long way. (8) WONDERFUL MUSKET returned from fifteen months out to run a creditable 3rd over this distance on July 3rd. She should be fitter for that run and can go close. (5) DEVIL K and (2) JAKDUKONG others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Jeongmun Papago (6) Victory Sam (8) Wonderful Musket (5) Devil K
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Another race with a probable short-priced favourite. (4) RESERVED JOHN has run well across her five starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1300M on July 10th. She has been finishing off her races well and the additional trip today can suit. The most experienced horse in the race is (8) BITNANEUN JILJU and while that is a somewhat dubious honour at class 6, he has run well enough at this distance including his last start 4th. A similar run here will see him closer. There isn’t much early speed here so (3) VINCERO KING should be able to get to the lead from a good draw. He is up in weight from his 3rd place over 1200M on July 9th but he should be competitive here. (2) HANI and (5) BLOW MIND are others who can make a bid for the minors.

Selections(4) Reserved John (8) Bitnaneun Jilju (3) Vincero King (2) Hani
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) LAST PUNCH has been ultra-consistent across her eight starts so far with her latest outing producing her best finish when 2nd 1200M, coming from well off the pace. She has run well at this distance before and from a good gate, can this time sit on or close to the pace and then run on. Today can be her day. The probable favourite is (9) JAY PHOENIX. He is yet to finish any worse than 3rd in three starts and he steps up to this distance for the first time having run 2nd on his first try at class 5 over 1200M on June 11th. He should be able to overcome the wide gate to get on pace and he has every chance. (8) YEONGUNG DAEMA and (3) SMART BYEOL came home 3rd and 5th when they raced each other at class and distance on July 3rd and both can be aiming to improve here. (1) FIRST ROAD, the only one in the field to have won at the distance, is another in the placing frame.

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

After a week off, racing returns to Seoul on Saturday with an 10-race afternoon and evening card running from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens kick things off. (7) ARGO GONGJU is the only one of these who has raced twice before and that’s probably enough to send her off as favourite. She improved to 3rd at the second time of asking on July 23rd when she sat midfield and ran on adequately enough and she won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. Regarding adequate, (6) CRAZY LOVE improved significantly out of her trials to run 6th of nine on a fair time on debut. She should have benefited from that run and can make progress here. There are two debut makers here and (3) WOLF PLAY showed on pace in his trial. He is well drawn to do the same here and can be in this a long way. (8) DREAM SKY and (2) LEGAL HIGH are others in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Argo Gongju (6) Crazy Love (3) Wolf Play (8) Dream Sky
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

More juvenile maidens with three of the nine racing for the first time. The favourite will be (9) RAON FOREST, who beat two of these on his way to a runner-up finish on debut on July 9th, when he settled midfield and ran on well in a good time. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (5) COMPLETE LEVEL looks the best of the first-timers. He went through two trials, significantly improving in the second of them, running on pace throughout and crossing the line in front. If he can bring that form to the races, then he won’t be far away. (1) GEUMBITMA was 4th on debut on the same race as Raon Forest. Drawn nicely on the inside, he can get closer today. (8) THUNDER BRAVO and (2) ROCK IMPACT others who can build on their debut showings.

Selections(9) Raon Forest (5) Complete Level (1) Geumbitma (8) Thunder Bravo
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. Apprentice jockey O Su-cheol has had quite the start to his career with his sixteen rides to date yielding four winners already. A fifth isn’t impossible here as (3) LUCKY INDY has a runner-up finish to her name over this trip in a fast time and with the 4kg claim, looks very nicely in. She draws well to get on or close to the speed and has every chance. (8) BEST FALCON is probably the main danger. She has shown steady improvement across four starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place last time out on July 24th when on pace throughout. She too should be on the early speed and will be in this a long way. (1) GEUMA WITTY comes back in trip after a decent 3rd place over 1300M on July 3rd, her best finish so far, and from the inside gate can match or better today. (9) WONDERFUL MUSIC and (4) SWEET KAKAO others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Lucky Indy (8) Best Falcon (1) Geuma Witty (9) Wonderful Music
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

More maiden fillies. (4) VESPER has a runner-up finish to her name over this distance, which she achieved two starts back at the end of May when settling right at the rear of the field and then running on well. She followed that up with a 5th place over 1300M and in this company, so long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, can win. (8) TANSAN has hinted at ability over three starts so far. She too has tended to find herself a bit far back, but she runs on well and can be a danger late on here. (6) SPEAR QUEEN ran a much-improved 2nd at this distance on July 9th, settling midfield and finishing strongly. A similar run will put her very close here. (5) P N S SING and (3) WONDER RACER others to consider.

Selections(4) Vesper (8) Tansan (6) Spear Queen (5) P N S Sing
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

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

(3) GEONGONILCHEOK is yet to finish in the first-two but has no fewer than five top-five finishes to his name from seven starts, including a 3rd place over this trip. He has a good start on him and draws well to get to the lead today, giving himself every chance of being in this a very long way. (7) CLAIR POWER is a big danger. He is yet to finish outside the top-five in four attempts and has a 3rd place at this distance in a good time on his record. Compared with most rivals here, he has good early speed, as well as a strong finish, and could well start as favourite. (1) BOSS BABY has performed fairly over seven starts so far with his latest 5th over 1200M on July 17th his best. That was a decent showing and from the inside gate, he should be looking to improve on that here. (2) TIZ FIGHTING and (4) QUIET CHARM others who can enter the calculations.

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Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 7)

Busan flies solo on Sunday with a bumper 15-race card from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all but two racing for the first time. That pair showed ability though. (3) JEULGEOUNYEOJEONG won a June trial and was sent off as an odds-on favourite on debut on July 17th. She jumped out well but couldn’t get to a good winner, ultimately ending in 2nd. It was a fast time, she should have come on for the experience, and she won’t need to improve much to win this. (6) BUILD UP sat midfield in a small field on his debut on July 10th. He ran a solid 3rd in a fair time and with some natural improvement can be close here. As for the first-timers, (7) GREAT MISS led all the way in her trial, crossing the line almost a second ahead of anything else. If she brings that form to the races, she’ll go close. (4) THUNDER FURY and (9) PEGACORN, the latter a winner of a slow heat, are others who can make a bold showing first-up.

Selections(3) Jeulgeounyeojeong (6) Build Up (7) Great Miss (4) Thunder Fury
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 9

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

The second division of the juvenile maiden, this time with four of the nine having raced previously. This time we’ll side with a newcomer in the shape of probable favourite (9) PAN STAR. She showed prominently in her trial, working through the line well in a good time. She won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (2) JEONGMUN SPECTER also showed well in his trial, leading for most of the way and crossing the line 2nd in a fair time and from a nice draw can make a bold showing first up. (4) HANEUL JEWANG is another newcomer who ran 2nd in his trial and can make an impact. As for the ones with experience, (5) THUNDER CROWN ran a decent enough 4th on debut and should have come on for the run while (8) WONDERFUL ANDOVER came through a tricky maiden and can also improve.

Selections(9) Pan Star (2) Jeongmun Specter (4) Haneul Jewang (5) Thunder Crown
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

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

Maiden three-year-olds. (1) GRAPHENE KING will be favourite and is the one to beat. He improved to finish runner-up on his second career appearance over 1400M on July 8th when leading almost the entire way around. He comes back in trip, draws nicely on the inside, and may take some beating. (2) GAMDONG ENERGY has mixed her form across six starts so far but has put in some fair performances at this distance. She can settle on pace or handy here and should be in the finish. There are four debut-makers and among them (9) HONOR CAL is the one who caught the eye in trials. She led for most of the way around before crossing the line 3rd in what was a fast run heat. If she brings that form to the races, she won’t be far away. (6) SPICE ECTON is another debut-maker. He sat handy in his trial, running on for 2nd and while it wasn’t a fast time, he can be competitive in this company. (4) STAR MATTA perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Graphene King (2) Gamdong Energy (9) Honor Cal (6) Spice Ecton
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 11

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

(4) SMILEY LARRY settled back on debut over 1200M on July 17th before running on and finishing 3rd. He comes up slightly in trip today which may suit and with some natural improvement can have winning chances here. The main danger is (10) PURE MAGIC. He has been consistent across his three starts so far with a best of 2nd over 1200M in June. He has been on or close to the pace on each occasion so a wider draw today perhaps isn’t to his advantage but there isn’t much speed in this race so he may be able to get to the front without much difficulty anyway. If he can, he will take some going past. (7) ETERNAL ACE was 5th behind Pure Magic last time out. That was his third time finishing in that position but in this company, he should be getting closer today. (8) SIMON TOP GUN and (6) ORANGE STAR are other possibles for the minors.

Selections(4) Smiley Larry (10) Pure Magic (7) Eternal Ace (8) Simon Top Gun
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(1) CHAMP GO returns to action for the first time since March. He has a 2nd place to his name at this distance which he recorded in January in a time faster than any of the others here have recorded. He comes down 3kg on his last start, draws well and while he didn’t offer too many clues in a trial two weeks ago, at his best he can win this. (3) DOCTOR KHALIFA has steadily improved across four outings to date. He overcame gate ten last time out on July 22nd to run a close 3rd over this distance and makes a quick return. He can settle just behind any early pace and run on. (8) SUNSHINE STAR returns to action for the first time since March when he ran a much improved 3rd over a mile. He trialed up adequately three-weeks ago and has a chance first-up here. (2) NAREUCAT and (10) QUEEN OF SPIRIT among others in the frame.

Selections(1) Champ Go (3) Doctor Khalifa (8) Sunshine Star (2) Nareucat
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

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

(3) EURO STAR has hinted at ability across her seven starts to date and comes in off a 4th place finish over a mile on July 22nd. She jumped out well that day and was handy throughout and in a race where the form is patchy to say the least, she has as good a chance as any. The drop in trip may allow her to overturn the form on (10) DANGDAE BLUE, who ran 2nd in that July 22nd race. That was a significant improvement for him and one that he can build on here despite the inconvenience of the widest gate. (4) HORAENGI returns to racing for the first time since December. She trialed up very nicely two weeks ago and she does have the fastest time of any of these for the distance. She can go well first up. (9) JEONGMUN CHITA and (5) THE PRINCESS look to be other potential improvers.

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Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 6)

With Seoul being off this weekend, Busan hosts a rare Saturday meeting with 8 races from 16:40 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

It’s Saturday. It’s…Busan?! (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maiden three-year-olds. We’ll take a chance on the solitary debut-maker. (9) RAP VERSA went through two trials, crossing the line 2nd and 1st, both in good times. He settled back before running on suggesting that 1200M is a good distance for him to start at, and he can put in a bold showing. (6) GEUMA UNO has run twice with seven months between appearances. He ran an improved 5th when overcoming gate nine to race handy to the lead on July 17th. He should have come on for that run and from a better gate, has every chance here. That will mean overturning the form on (7) MIGHTY STORM, who finished slightly ahead of him in that July 17th race. That was his second consecutive 4th place finish and he should be on pace and in this a long way. (2) NICE DAY ran three times without distinction around the turn of the year. He returns here having been gelded, looked much better in a trial and could be a different prospect. The experienced (8) WONDERFUL SMARTY another to consider.

Selections(9) Rap Versa (6) Geuma Uno (7) Mighty Storm (2) Nice Day
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

(6) SPEED MAST may be ready to win here. He is yet to finish any better than 4th from ten attempts but is rarely too far away and has the fastest time among these for the distance. In this field, he should be close to the pace and with Perovic climbing aboard, he has every chance. (3) MA GUN debuted in a slowly run race over 1400M on July 8th, finishing 5th of ten. He should have come on for that experience and with some natural improvement can go closer today. (7) LET IT GO gets a nice light weight with an apprentice rider engaged. She got a bit far back from a wide draw on her latest outing but if we go on her 3rd place over 1200M in a fair time two starts back, she can enter the calculations here. (1) TAKE ADELE and (5) SORI TAEPUNG are others in the placing frame.

Selections(6) Speed Mast (3) Ma Gun (7) Let It Go (1) Take Adele
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 9

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

It’s hard to look past (5) JOSEPHINE QUEEN here. Her win came at class 6 level over 1200M in June but she ran well for a close 2nd at this class and distance on July 7th, leading in the straight only to be beaten by the favourite, Haneul Jeonsa. That day she was prominent throughout whereas when she won she came from off the pace so she is versatile and is likely to be a hot favourite. (1) HUIMANG PUNCH had a poor day at the office on her first try at this class on July 8th. Draw a line through that and instead go on her all the way win over this distance at class 6 level on June 10th and she is worth another chance today. (6) HAVANA JANE has proven competitive at this level. She has run good times at this distance and can be a factor today. (10) HANEUL JILJU and (8) TWO TWO BRAIN among others capable of challenging for the minors.

Selections(5) Josephine Queen (1) Huimang Punch (6) Havana Jane (10) Haneul Jilju
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

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

(6) YONGGARI has his fair share of weight but he is accustomed to that and looks ready to win again here. He only has one victory to his name, at 1300M at class 6 level in April, but he has since registered two 3rd places and a 2nd in three class 5 attempts at distances between 1200M and a mile. In today’s company he can sit behind the early speed and should prove too strong at the business end of the race. The most credible challenger is (5) GREAT ONE. He comes in having won at class and distance on July 17th when sitting handy and then running on well. He comes up 3kg in the weights but can be competitive again. (9) QUEEN STAR has raced well in her latest two over 1300M, running on both times. She may appreciate another crack at 1400M. (2) CHOEGANG FORCE and (4) MY SONG are both up in class following last start wins at this distance. They did it in contrasting styles with Choegang Force settling back and coming from off the pace while My Song was handy. Both can measure up in this company.

Selections(6) Yonggari (5) Great One (9) Queen Star (2) Choegang Force
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start4, 9, 10, 11

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

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