Racing Previews

Sprint Series & Trophy Exchange Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (April 13)

It’s a big day of racing on Sunday with the 2nd leg of the Sprint Series at Seoul as well as six International Trophy exchange races across the two tracks, each with a big prize on offer. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Vincero Cavallo won the first leg of the Sprint Series (Pic: KRA)

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

(2) RACE ROSE took a couple of goes to figure things out, but she has a 4th and two 3rd places from her latest three, most recently at this distance on March 15th racing handy throughout. Moon Se-young stays on, she draws well and today should be her day. (4) TIGER K was a much-improved 2nd at start number three over this distance on March 8th when being ridden further forward than in his first two appearances. Expect similar tactics today, and he can be a danger. (5) DIA ROOK has the fastest time among these for the distance and from a better gate can go much better than last time. (9) CHEONGHAE STAR and (7) DUSON EUTTEUM others in the frame.

Selections(2) Race Rose (4) Tiger K (5) Dia Rook (9) Cheonghae Star
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 11

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

After an inauspicious debut, (9) POWER BAND has run 3rd in both subsequent outings, both at 1200M and most recently on March 16th when close to the speed throughout. The wide draw shouldn’t stop her getting a forward position, and she can win here. (4) ALPHA FEMALE led for much of the way around over this distance on March 2nd before ultimately having to settle for 5th. She’ll be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (2) BEST KINGDOM has two 3rd places from his latest three. An apprentice keeps his weight nice and low, and he can be doing his best work late on. (5) NONSTOP SERVE and (6) LASER RUN are perhaps the best of a somewhat limited looking rest.

Selections(9) Power Band (4) Alpha Female (2) Best Kingdom (5) Nonstop Serve
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

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

Fillies and mares only here. It’s been twelve runs at this class for (5) WONDERFUL SPIRIT since getting her maiden win, but she has been working her way back into contention in her latest few, most recently when 3rd at class and distance on March 9th sitting behind the speed and running on. The same apprentice keeps her weight from coming up too much and she has as good a chance as any. (8) EXCELLENT MATTA is yet to win in seventeen, but recent efforts are a cause for optimism, and she beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd in a similar race to this at 1300M on March 8th. In this company she should be on pace and she could break through. (7) UPPERHAND is up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes in filly maidens. Both times she was beaten by decent winners and there isn’t much to fear here. (9) GOOD FIGHTER and (4) WONPYEONG GWANGYA others to consider.

Selections(5) Wonderful Spirit (8) Excellent Matta (7) Upperhand (9) Good Fighter
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (6) HANNAM QUEEN enters in the best form with a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, both at 1200M and both times close to the speed. In this company she should be among the early pacesetters again, and she won’t need to improve much to win this. (12) SEOGWI CHOWON beat a few of these on her way to 3rd place over 1200M on March 14th. That was by far her best effort so far and she can build on it here. (3) AREUMDAUNNALDEUL was a fair 6th of nine on debut at the end of February. She should have come on for that run, Seo Seung-un climbs on, and she can improve here. (1) SPEED MORE and (5) HOLIDAY QUEEN are others to consider for the places.

Selections(6) Hannam Queen (12) Seogwi Chowon (3) Areumdaunnaldeul (1) Speed More
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

After winning a trial, (2) WHITE CARLA led every step of the way to win on debut over this distance on March 15th. He comes up in class here but is down in weight, draws well, and he can maintain his 100% record here. (11) LEGEND WOW won on debut and following an undistinguished first try at this class, ran 3rd at this distance on March 2nd. CC climbs on and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, he can be a danger. (8) HAKSAN DARK HORSE has been working towards a second win, most recently running 3rd at class and distance on March 23rd when coming from well back. He can leave himself a bit much to do but should be dangerous late on. (3) SEOUL BINGO and (9) RYAN HEAT, the latter up in class following a last start maiden win, are others to consider.

Selections(2) White Carla (11) Legend Wow (8) Haksan Dark Horse (3) Seoul Bingo
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(8) RAON THE MASKE was a winner on debut over 1200M in February before running 3rd on his first try at this class and distance on March 7th racing handy throughout. He only comes up 1kg in weight, he should be on speed, and he will be a short price favourite to win this. (9) BEOLGYO WANGCHO is the danger. His maiden win had been coming, and it arrived at start four in January when leading all the way at 1200M. He was on pace on his first try at this class on February 28th, ultimately finishing in 2nd in what was his first try at this distance. He should have come on for that run and while up in weight and drawn a touch wider than ideal, he can go close. (4) BEST BOY is yet to finish in the top two and was 7th behind Beolgyo Wangcho last time out. He has eight finishes between 3rd and 5th though and from a good gate may make for some each way appeal. (12) ASTRE and (10) GWANGYAEUIHAMSUNG others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Raon The Maske (9) Beolgyo Wangcho (4) Best Boy (12) Astre
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 12)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with an afternoon and evening card of 10-races from 13:25 to 20:00. Here are the previews:

Moon Se-young will be conducting a fan meeting a 4:55pm at the Seoul Races on Saturday

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

Fillies only in this maiden. We’ll side with a first timer and (8) LUCKY A ONE who took three trials to get it right but finally did so with aplomb on March 13th when leading all the way. She can be on the speed here too and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (9) CRAZY MARI needs a line drawn through her latest when she got a long way back. Instead we’ll go on her effort two outings back when 4th at this distance and if she can get off to a good start here, she can be a danger. (2) LUCKY DAY looks to be on the right trajectory with an improved 5th place at start number three and from a good draw can be in the mix. (5) GEOLJAK CHUKJE and (3) WONDERFUL CATHY others in the frame.

Selections(8) Lucky A One (9) Crazy Mari (2) Lucky Day (5) Geoljak Chukje
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

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

(6) VINCERO CUE has made solid progress across three starts so far culminating in a 2nd place at 1300M on in February 8th when leading until the closing stages. He draws well to lead again and in this company he will be a hot favourite to go one better. (5) AWESOME STEP was ordinary on debut but was a much-improved 2nd at start number two on March 1st when settling midfield and running on. Third-up she can be peaking fitness wise and can be close again. (10) SECRET WOLF has hinted at ability with a 4th and a 5th from two starts so far. She has demonstrated she has a strong finish so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can challenge late. (11) SAENAE PARK and (3) DRAGON FANTASY are others who can go close.

Selections(6) Vincero Cue (5) Awesome Step (10) Secret Wolf (11) Saenae Park
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 9

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

(9) ECO FORE enters off his best finish so far when stepped up to this distance for the first time on March 16th and beating plenty of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place having settled handy to the pace. The same apprentice keeps his weight low, the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem in this small field, and he can go one better today. (5) CHAMPIONS FIELD was 3rd in that March 16th race, settling midfield and running on. That followed a 4th place at the start before and he can continue to get closer here. (2) SANBANG BOMNAL was 4th, adding to a 2nd and a 3rd from his previous two tries at 1700M and he should be there or thereabouts again. (6) HERO CHOICE and (4) MARUBYEOL are others who can compete for the minors.

Selections(9) Eco Fore (5) Champions Field (2) Sanbang Bomnal (6) Hero Choice
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 9

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

(1) ROPPONGI DRAGON has been a beaten favourite on both his latest two starts, most recently his first try at this class and distance on March 15rg when he settled back and ran on for 3rd place in a slow race. He should have benefited from the experience and from a good gate and still under a light weight, he is worth another chance here. The danger is (5) TONNERRE. He enters in good form with a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two at 1800M and 1700M, both times leading for much of the way around. He will probably lead here too and may take some catching. (3) WORLD JOY is up in class having got his maiden win at 1300M on March 16th. He is up in trip too, but his running style suggests it may suit and he can measure up. (2) STUNNING MONEY tends to get a bit far back but can run into some money. (8) QUEEN ABIGAIL a minor money chance.

Selections(1) Roppongi Dragon (5) Tonnerre (3) World Joy (2) Stunning Money
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 11)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Maidens with three of the twelve racing for the first time. (3) TOP DOG debuted inauspiciously last September and only reappeared, gelded, on February 21st when he ran a solid 2nd over this distance from a wide draw. He should have come on for that run, he comes into a much better gate, and he can win here. (2) STUKA Debuted in that February 21st race, finishing 7th. He came back out on March 14th when he was an improved 3rd at 1300M having raced on pace throughout and he is a big danger here. (8) JUST SHINY ran 2nd in two trials in quick times. Seo Seung-un is on and if he brings that form to the races, he can co close. (11) PLUTO has a 2nd and a 3rd from two starts so far and has the best time among these for the distance. He has the challenge of a wider gate this time but warrants another chance. (10) YEOSU SUPER STAR another fast timer who caught the eye when winning a trial.

Selections(3) Top Dog (2) Stuka (8) Just Shiny (11) Pluto
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

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

(6) DOCTOR MATTERS enters off a 3rd place at 1200M on March 16th when handy throughout. She comes up to 1400M for the first time but there is no reason why it can’t suit, and she has every chance here. (1) STORM POINT has shown signs of figuring it out with a 5th and a 4th in two starts back from a six-month layoff, most recently at this distance on March 21st, coming from off the pace. Munro stays on and third-up this preparation, he can be peaking fitness wise. (11) GEUMA PANTHER didn’t do much on debut a month ago but previously trialed well and can improve here. There is no early speed in this race so (5) HANEULPYEONGJEONG can get an easy run to the lead and can be in this a long way. (3) BAEKPAL BOEUN another in the hunt.

Selections(6) Doctor Matters (1) Storm Point (11) Geuma Panther (5) Haneulpyeongjeong
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 11

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

A very ordinary maiden. (4) DOCTOR CURLIN was away slowly from a wide gate before running on for a best to date 4th place at 1300M on March 9th. She draws much better this time and in very modest company won’t have to improve much to win this. (1) COWBOY MAN has a 2nd and a 3rd on his record, something that has led him to be sent off as the favourite in each of his last three starts. None of those went especially well, but from the inside gate he can be on pace here and in things a long way. (9) SUN LIGHT was slow away on debut over 1200M on March 14th, but she ran on pleasingly enough for 6th place. She should have come on for that run and can be closer here. (11) HOUND POKER and (2) DOCTOR SOLAR others who may have a say.

Selections(4) Doctor Curlin (1) Cowboy Man (9) Sun Light (11) Hound Poker
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

The maidens continue. (2) OASIS GREEN has been knocking on the door of the places and was a beaten favourite when leading on his first try at a mile on February 7th, ultimately finishing a fair 5th. Drawing well to be on pace again, he can go all the way this time. (6) ARONDIGHT was a much-improved 2nd at start number seven over 1400M on March 9th, settling midfield and running on well. Franco climbs on for the first time and he can build on that effort here. (4) EAGLE POWER will need a line drawn through his latest when never a factor but if we instead go on his 2nd place two starts back over this distance then he has to be considered a chance here. (9) SUN JAE and (11) HIT MAJOR among plenty of other chances.

Selections(2) Oasis Green (6) Arondight (4) Eagle Power (9) Sun Jae
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Oasis Blue Claims First Jewel Of Triple Crown in Overwhelming Fashion

Oasis Blue produced a performance of consummate control and maturity to dominate the KRA Cup Mile (1600M KOR-G2), the first leg of the 2025 Korean Triple Crown, at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon.

Oasis Blue in the clear in the Cup Mile (Pic: KRA)

Fully justifying his 2.8 favourite status, Oasis Blue was ridden patiently in the early stages by jockey Jin Kyum, before letting down in the home straight and the Busan Classic Trial winner pulled away for a comfortable four-length victory in the opening jewel of the crown.

“I didn’t really have to do much; he is so straightforward” winning jockey Jin Kyum told in-house broadcaster KRBC. “The stable prepared him really well, I am grateful for the opportunity and happy to repay their trust in me.”

Getting the closest was Thomas Gillespie’s My Dream Day, who as a 38.0 chance ran on under Alan Munro. Another outsider, Yongbi Paewang, ridden by Masa Tanaka, was 3rd. However, pre-race fancies Long Run Bulpae and Gangnaru, as well as Oasis Blue’s stablemate Beolmaui Ace, made little impact.

“These are three-year-olds, the other horses will continue to make progress, but I think Oasis Blue has potential for more too” jockey Jin continued. “The next race (Korean Derby) we know the increased distance is no problem so if he remains well, then he has a big chance of winning again.”

For the 30-year-old jockey Jin, it was a first Graded Stakes win but for trainer Baik Kwang-yeol it was familiar territory, saddling his eighth Graded winner and second in this race after Betelgeuse scored two years ago for the same owner as Oasis Blue, Lee Jong-hun. According to the trainer, it was one of his simplest.

“Although (Oasis Blue) is only three, he is a very relaxed horse, he can settle into a rhythm and pace that is very mature for his age” said Baik, speaking to KRBC. “He is a gentle horse in the stable, so he is easy to manage and train and he is an easy ride. If he continues to make the progress he has so far, then he has a very big future.”

“The owner is very good; he trusts us completely and I have complete trust in the jockey, so I am in a very lucky position as Trainer. The next race is the Derby, we’ll prepare well and see what happens.”

There is much cause for optimism. Oasis Blue has already won over the Derby distance of 1800M and is now set to be a hot favourite when the division reconvenes in Seoul on Sunday May 11th for the Korean Derby (1800M KOR-G1).

Oasis Blue is by KRA stallion Uncaptured and is out of Saena (by Peace Rules). He was bred by Lee Nam-il at Pyeongdae Farm and was purchased by owner Lee Jong-hun for 69 Million Korean Won at the November 2023 Korea Breeders’ Association Sale. The win moves him on to five wins from eight starts – he also crossed the line 1st in the Listed Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy last October only to be disqualified for an incident early in the race.

Next week the focus shifts to the Road to September’s International Korea Sprint and the second leg of the Sprint Series, the SBS Sports Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) at Seoul on Sunday afternoon.

KRA Cup Mile 2025 Preview

It’s the big one for the three-year-old locally bred division on Sunday as the 2025 Korean Triple Crown gets underway with the KRA Cup Mile (1600M KOR-G2) at Busan and a full field of sixteen – seven from the host track and nine who have travelled down from Seoul – will compete for the first jewel. SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEWS OF ALL 17 SUNDAY RACES ACROSS SEOUL AND BUSAN.

Chan Famous and Long Run Bulpae are among the contenders for the KRA Cup Mile (Pic: KRA)

Trainer Baik Kwang-yeol and owner Lee Jong-hun won this race with Betelgeuse in 2023, and the pair arrive with two of the leading fancies in this edition in the shape of OASIS BLUE, who won Busan’s Classic Trial in February, along with BEOLMAUI ANGEL, who boasts the highest rating in the race.

CHAN FAMOUS won Seoul’s Classic Trial and leads the capital’s challenge in Busan in the colours of owner Shum Ho-chun. Plenty though will fancy LONG RUN BULPAE, 2nd in that race, to overturn the form on Chan Famous.

The biggest juvenile race of last season, the Breeders’ Cup Rookie (1400M KOR-G2) was won by 80/1 outsider Aqua Line. He hasn’t raced since and isn’t here while that day’s runner-up Dragon Ninja, is sent to race 5 on Sunday instead. That leaves KHAN MAX, who was 3rd, as the best finisher in that race, who goes here, and he won’t be among the favourites.

Race Shape: (1) LONG RUN BULPAE and (3) BEOLMAUI ANGEL both like to race on pace and both have drawn very well to do so (9) OASIS BLUE has been close to the speed in both his latest successes and while drawn wider this time will not want to be too far away. (11) ELDORADO NOLBU, (12) GANGNARU and (13) CHAN FAMOUS have all shown an ability to come from off the pace and given their wide draws will most likely settle back and seek to close.

Here’s who is taking part in the big race which has a local post time of 16:30 and is race 6 on the card:

1. LONG RUN BULPAE – Three wins up to class 4 and 1200M. 2nd to Chan Famous in the Sports Seoul having been on pace and going down less than a length. Moon Se-young travels down to ride, he can be on pace here and is a chance.

2. WONDERFUL GROOM – Awarded the Listed Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy in the stewards’ room when Oasis Blue was thrown out. Well back in the Gyeongnam Shinmun Classic trial but does have a 2nd place on his only start at this distance. Outsider.

3. BEOLMAUI ANGEL – A winner of four from eight up to class 3 level he has the highest rating of any of these. 4th on first try at a mile last time out having shown on pace throughout. That should stand him in good stead here, he draws beautifully, and he can win. Seo Seung-un is aboard.

4. MY DREAM WAY – Just the one win but has begun this year well with a class 4 2nd and then 3rd in the Gyeongnam Shinmun. Others favoured but looks to be getting better with each run and can settle handy and run on and will have Alan Munro at the controls.

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Seoul Twilight Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 5)

It’s supposed to be the first of two weekends of the annual Cherry Blossom Festival at Seoul although as of Thursday, the chilly weather has meant those blossoms are not actually out yet. Nevertheless, racing switches to a slightly later schedule with Saturday’s 10 races at Seoul taking place between 13:25 and 20:00. Here are the previews:

Will we see any of these this weekend?

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (5) FASHION STAR has two 3rd places and a 5th from three starts so far, coming from off the pace each time. She can do similar here, and in this company, she has a winning chance. (6) EXCELLENT HANSEN has a 2nd place to her name over 1300M and enters off a 4th place in a very similar race to this in February. She’ll be on pace and shapes as the main danger. (11) RAON PARANOMA debuted without distinction on the last day of 2023 and hasn’t been seen since. She looked well in two February trials and could go ok first up in this company. (9) BROWN SUGAR along with first time starter (3) JILJUUI YEOWANG are others to consider.

Selections(5) Fashion Star (6) Excellent Hansen (11) Raon Paranoma (9) Brown Sugar
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 11

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

(3) BILLION BOY didn’t do much on debut but has since managed a 2nd and a 3rd, both at 1200M and both times racing on pace. He comes up in trip, but he draws well to be on pace again, Moon Se-young climbs on, and today can be the day. (7) MORNING WONDER has made steady progress across three starts, culminating in a close 2nd over 1300M on March 9th when racing handy throughout. She has a strong finish on her and the slight step up in trip can be in her favour. (9) TEN KOREA debuted with 4th place behind Morning Wonder back in February. It’s taken him eight weeks to return but he should have come on for the run and can be in the mix here. (1) ECLIPSE THE QUEEN and (2) SONGDANG HWANGTAEJA others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Billion Boy (7) Morning Wonder (9) Ten Korea (1) Eclipse The Queen
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 6

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

(1) YEONHUI HERO is yet to win in five but has three runner-up finishes including his latest at this class over 1200M on February 8th when having to settle back and then run on. He comes into a much better gate today and this time should be on pace with every chance of going all the way. (11) KKUMUI HYANGGI is another maiden, in her case from eleven outings. He’s finished in the top four on no fewer than eight occasions including last time on March 16th when 2nd at 1400M. She likes to settle back and run on so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can be close again. (2) REMEMBER AGAIN has won, back at start number two at 1200M in November. He has since raced twice at this class with a 2nd and a 5th and from a good gate should be forward early and a threat. (9) ÉCLAIR and (5) GRIFFON are the other place chances.

Selections(1) Yeonhui Hero (11) Kkumui Hyanggi (2) Remember Again (9) Éclair
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Competitive race. (8) LEGEND TANSAENG got his maiden win two starts back before running a solid 4th place on his first try at this class over 1300M on February 22nd. He comes up to two turns for the first time as well as coming up 2kg in weight, but neither should be a problem, and he can win again. (6) WITH DIS KURO has steadily progressed across his five starts and he got his maiden win at this distance at the end of December when leading all the way. He is up in class here and he hasn’t raced or trialed since then so his match fitness will have to be taken on trust, but he has plenty of potential to measure up. (4) MEGA STEP has never been worse than 5th in seven appearances and comes up to this distance for the first time. She has proven capable of coming from off the pace and she can be a danger. (3) CAMP DAVID and (1) THUNDER STORM others in contention for the minors.

Selections(8) Legend Tansaeng (6) With Dis Kuro (4) Mega Step (3) Camp David
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 9

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 4)

The 2025 Triple Crown gets underway with the KRA Cup Mile this Sunday but in the meantime, the action gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (5) YEONGGWANGUI HONEY overcame a slow start to run 5th on debut and then improved to 3rd at start number two over this distance on February 14th when settling midfield and running on. Third-up she can be peaking and with Seo Seung-un engaged, today should be the day. (9) NAMYANG RUBY ran twice last autumn and showed some ability with a 3rd and a 2nd. She races for the first time since November but looked well enough in a March trial and can be close here. There are two debut-makers and among them, (11) WONDERFUL SMART improved significantly in the second of two trials (it was voluntary so may not be in all racecards, but she ran 4th in 62.3 for the 1000M). If she brings that form to the races, she can go close. (8) TEUTA and (4) GWANGPUNG STAR others who can get better.

Selections(5) Yeonggwangui Honey (9) Namyang Ruby (11) Wonderful Smart (8) Teuta
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 11

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

(4) MEANINGFUL TIME ran 4th over 1300M on debut on February 14th (behind Yeonggwangui Honey who was due to go in race 1), overcoming a wide draw to finish off well. He should have come on for that run, the step up to a mile can suit, and he can win here. (5) CHAMP SONNY ran 3rd at start two in February and then beat a couple of these on March 14th when stepped up to a mile and leading for much of the way around before ultimately finishing 5th. He can be on the speed again here and can go closer this time. (3) FLYING CHAMPION raced four times last summer and autumn with a best of 2nd. He races for the first time in five months and while he didn’t offer many clues in a March trial and a mile isn’t easy first-up, if he shows his previous ability, he won’t be far away. (6) DORAON SAMSON and (1) CAPTAIN KOREA other place chances.

Selections(4) Meaningful Time (5) Champ Sonny (3) Flying Champion (6) Doraon Samson
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

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

(8) FLYING THE LUCKY hasn’t won since his debut but has several recent near misses including last time out when 3rd at this class and distance on March 7th. He tends to get a bit far back but if he can be a little handier here, he can win. He gets a 3kg weight swing on that day’s winner (10) FAT BOY, who emerged out of the same gate as today and settled handy before taking things up turning for home. He has to deal with that additional weight, but a repeat wouldn’t surprise. (2) STAR PARK is a twenty-two-race maiden but has been getting closer and he was 2nd in that March 7th race. He comes up slightly in weight, but draws nicely, Munro gets on for the first time, and he should be there or thereabouts again. (12) PINOT POWER and (4) POMPEII among other chances.

Selections(8) Flying The Lucky (10) Fat Boy (2) Star Park (12) Pinot Power
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 12

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

(10) FLY TO THE MOON is yet to win in five attempts but has been getting progressively closer and enters off back-to-back runner-up finishes, most recently at this class and distance on March 23rd when drawn even wider than today. He may need a touch of luck at the start but if he can find a forward position, today can be his day. (7) JINJU BIT returned in January following six months out and has steadily improved across three starts back, most recently when 4th on March 7th. He’ll be on pace here and can be in this a long way. (12) DOCTOR HAPPY was an on-pace 2nd at this class and distance on March 9th. She is up 2kg in weight and she has the challenge of the widest gate here but can follow Fly To The Moon across to the speed and be a danger. (8) BLUE THUNDER and (5) GRAND DREAM others in the placing hunt.

Selections(10) Fly To The Moon (7) Jinju Bit (12) Doctor Happy (8) Blue Thunder
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start7, 8, 10, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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Luna Stakes Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (March 30)

The Triple Tiara gets underway at Busan on Sunday when twelve fillies line up for the Luna Stakes over a mile. There are 6 races at Busan from 12:05 to 16:30 (this big race is the last) while at Seoul there are 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Eclipse Berry won last year’s Luna Stakes (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (7) CHRYSOL NIKE ran 2nd on debut over 1200M on January 25th, settling midfield and running on well. She comes in relatively fresh after nine weeks out, she should have come on for the run, and she can go one better today. (9) GIDAEHARA improved to 5th at start number two on February 22nd, showing on pace before weakening a little late on. Third-up she can be peaking fitness wise and with Maia getting on for the first time, she can get closer. (3) NAEGILUI ACE beat Gidaehara when running 3rd in that February 22nd race. She has shown progression across each of her three starts so far and can be in the mix again. (8) MISS FAMOUS and (10) SMART TAKE the other main chances.

Selections(7) Chrysol Nike (9) Gidaehara (3) Naegilui Ace (8) Miss Famous
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 10

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

(9) TOUR FELIX ran once without distinction last summer and then didn’t reappear until February 23rd this year when he was a much-improved 2nd at 1200M, racing handy throughout. He should have come on for the run and he can go one better today. (7) THUNDER FIRE improved to 3rd at start number two on March 1st, similarly racing handy all the way. He’ll do the same here and third up can be even fitter. (3) J ONE POWER ran 3rd behind Tour Felix in that February 23rd race, having settled a little closer than in his first two outings and accordingly running better. He draws well and can be there or thereabouts again. (11) MUNHAK CHUKJE and (2) RAON SILENCE are others to consider.

Selections(9) Tour Felix (7) Thunder Fire (3) J One Power (11) Munhak Chukje
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

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

Not the strongest of maidens. (9) CUPID K probably gets the verdict although that means having to discount her latest effort on March 2nd when she was sent off as favourite but barely laid a glove on them and finished midfield. Her form leading up to that was good though and on her 2nd place two starts back, she warrants another chance with the extended trip potentially suiting. (11) MARUBYEOL must be close to setting the record for most class 6 starts. That’s not a good thing. However, she got her best ever finish at this distance in January and in this very modest company, could be going even better. (6) GHOST CHYSOL races fro the first time since being beaten by Marubyeol at thus distance in that January race. He comes into a better gate today and get closer. (5) GRAND FLYING and (1) SAVANA CHARLIE perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(9) Cupid K (11) Marubyeol (6) Ghost Chrysol (5) Grand Flying
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 10

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

After running 4th on debut in February, (2) VANGIE was beaten into 2nd place when sent off as favourite on March 7th over 1200M. He draws nicely here, and with the slight step up in trip, he will be hot favourite to get it right at the third time of asking. (4) JJAK SARANG also has a 4th and a 2nd from two starts to date, racing on pace both times. She can be on pace and in this a long way. Those two will be at the top of most quinella picks, although (8) HEUIMANG GUNJU was an improved 3rd at start number three over this distance on February 28th when close to the speed throughout. He can aim to at least repeat in this company. (6) FAST QUEEN and (7) THUNDER PASSION others who can potentially improve.

Selections(2) Vangie (4) Jjak Sarang (8) Heuimang Gunju (6) Fast Queen
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 12

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

(1) RAON NOTHERN DANCE is yet to win in five but comes up in class following four top four finishes, including a last start 3rd on his first try at this distance on February 23rd when close to the speed throughout. He can have come on for that experience and coming down a full 4kg in weight and drawn nicely, can win here. (3) DANGDAECHOWOL is similarly winless and in his case has sic top five finishes from seven attempts. He enters off a 2nd place at this class and distance on January 25th and while he was well beaten by a good winner, he won’t need to improve much to have winning claims here. (9) LOTUSMIREU has improved since a six-month layoff and can aim to at least match the 3rd places she has from each of her latest two. (6) GRAND KWAEMA and up in class (10) TROLL other minor hopes.

Selections(1) Raon Nothern Dance (3) Dangdaechowol (9) Lotusmireu (6) Grand Kwaema
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(8) SWORD MASTER was an also ran in last year’s Breeders’ Cup Rookie and since then has two runner-up finishes and most recently, a 4th place at this class over a mile on February 23rd when on pace throughout. He ran 2nd on his only previous try at this distance and he looks the one to beat today. He will need to overturn the form on (6) WORLD HIT, who was 3rd in that February 23rd race, showing on pace throughout. He will be on the speed again and can be in this a long way. (5) HOMYEONG SHINHWA comes up in class following a maiden win over 1300M that had been coming. She carries a light weight and can measure up in this company. (7) MORNING DEW and (10) TRIPLE AXEL are others to look out for.

Selections(8) Sword Master (6) World Hit (5) Homyeong Shinhwa (7) Morning Dew
Next Best10, 12
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 10

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 29)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

(10) DRAGON KILLER has raced twice for a 2nd and a 3rd at 1200M and 1300M. He has proven able to come from off the pace so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and he has every chance of breaking through here. The danger is (7) MUNHAK BELL. She was an improved 2nd at start number two over this distance on January 5th when settling midfield and running on. She comes in fresh following twelve weeks out and will similarly be running on strong. (4) ALL NUT raced three times up until last June with a best of 3rd place at 1300M. She hasn’t raced since but looked well in a trial earlier this month and in this company can be backed on a place line first-up. (8) SUN CATCHER and (9) BITNARA others who can improve.

Selections(10) Dragon Killer (7) Munhak Bell (4) All Nut (8) Sun Catcher
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

(2) SEOBU SKY could only manage 6th when sent off as favourite at start number two having bumped at the start and then got trapped wide. We’ll draw a line through that and instead go on his solid 3rd place on debut and with the extended trip today possible to suit, he is worth another chance. (4) JUNMA FORCE has a 5th and two 4th place finishes from three outings so far. She has been doing her best work late on so she is another for who the slight step up in distance can favour and is the main danger. (11) DRAGON FANTASY was an improved 3rd at start number four on March 1st and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, can be there or thereabouts again. (3) JILJU CHEONHA and (6) GWANAKSAN CHECK IN among plenty of others with at least place chances.

Selections(2) Seobu Sky (4) Junma Force (11) Dragon Fantasy (3) Jilju Cheonha
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (2) PURGE STEP was a winner on debut in a filly only maiden at 1300M in January before running a fair 4th on March 1st on her first try at this class and distance. She draws well here to sit just behind the speed, and she can return to winning ways. (10) ARCH DAY is yet to score in seven attempts and actually comes up in class here. Nevertheless, she has five top five finishes and won’t need to improve much on her showing when 2nd last time out in order to challenge here. (1) BIG BRIDGE is similarly a maiden but with no fewer than ten top five finishes from twelve starts and very nicely drawn, she can be an each-way chance. The up in class (5) FLYING LION, along with (3) HERO JILJU, who needs a line through her latest, are others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Purge Step (10) Arch Day (1) Big Bridge (5) Flying Lion
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Competitive race. (10) MR.STORM got his maiden win at start number four on February 15th when leading all the way over this distance. He is up in class and along with the wide draw, he doesn’t get much in the way of a weight drop, but the manner of that win suggests that there can be more to come. (4) WANGCHOEGO is yet to score in eight attempts but has had plenty of near misses including as runner-up at this class and distance two outings back. On that effort he shapes as a big chance here, settling midfield and running on. (2) HAKSAN CAIRO is another maiden who has placed at this class and distance as recently as February, He has a smart finish on him and can run into the money again. (3) GOOGOO and (1) YONGBI TAEYANG are others in the frame.  

Selections(10) Mr.Storm (4) Wangchoego (2) Haksan Cairo (3) Googoo
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start7, 9, 10, 11

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 28)

The Triple Tiara gets underway this weekend with the Luna Stakes being run on Sunday. Prior to that the action gets underway with an 8-race card at Busan on Friday from 11:25 and 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Competitive maiden with nine of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) DEFENSE PLAY raced once without distinction last April but looked well when trialing in February, racing handy and running on for 3rd in a fair time. He draws nicely here and has as good a chance as any. (9) YONGBI LEGEND beat a couple of these when leading all the way to “win” a March 1st trial. That was his fourth attempt to qualify but if he brings that form to the races, then he should be a big chance here. (6) TANTAN DAERO was 2nd in that same trial, settling back and running on. In his case it was his second trial and he should be nicely fit for this. (5) ECHO CHAMP and (1) OVERSHOOTING others who can be considered first up.

Selections(4) Defense Play (9) Yongbi Legend (6) Tantan Daero (5) Echo Champ
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 9

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (10) WONDERFUL FORTUNE was an improved 3rd at start number three over 1300M on February 7th when settling midfield and running on and beating a few of these in the process. The slight step up in trip can suit and she won’t need to improve much to win this. After a positive trial, (3) SWORN QUEEN ran a fair 5th on debut, settling just behind the pace and running on. She should have derived benefit from the run and can go closer here. (7) ILLUSION has hinted at ability across her six starts with her latest being her best when 4th at 1200M in a similar race to this on February 16th. She is another who may appreciate a bit more distance, and can be competitive. (4) NICE GIRL and (1) DREAMMA other chances.

Selections(10) Wonderful Fortune (3) Sworn Queen (7) Illusion (4) Nice Girl
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Another competitive maiden. (8) FATE has a 2nd and a 4th from his latest two, both over the mile and most recently beating a couple of these on February 28th. He likes to settle back and come from off the pace and today can be his day. (5) CARIBBEAN BAY enters off an improved 2nd place at 1400M on February 23rd when handy throughout. He tackles 1600M for the first time and it can suit. (6) HOUDINI was a solid 4th at 1400M last time out when drawn in the widest gate and then settling back. He too steps up to the mile with scope to get better. (2) DAEJI DABONG and (9) EAGLE POWER are among plenty of others who should be in the hunt

Selections(8) Fate (5) Caribbean Bay (6) Houdini (2) Daeji Daebong
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 11

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

We’ll take a chance on (5) MEGA PLAY here. He ran out of steam on his first try at this class when stepped up to 1400M on February 28th, but he drops back to the distance at which he got his win back in January when on pace and from a good gate he can be in this. It’s been a long time since (3) ROAD TO THUNDER got his sole win, but his recent form reads nicely, and he has finished ahead of plenty of these. He has the fastest final furlong average time in the field, and he should be finishing strongly again. (6) DRAGON PUCNH returned in January from six months out and has since finished 4th and 3rd in two outings back. Third-up she can be peaking fitness wise and can be a threat. (11) DEUMULEO and (1) TENGRE other placing chances.

Selections(5) Mega Play (3) Road To Thunder (6) Dragon Punch (11) Deumuleo
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start7, 8, 10, 11

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

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