Racing Previews

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 18)

It’s been a wet week on the peninsula but racing is set to get underway on Friday at Busan with 8-races from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Boryeonglightqueen won the final leg of the Triple Tiara and she returns on Friday (Pic: KRA)

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

Ten previously unraced juveniles so we must head to the trial videos. By some margin (10) SUPEX WINNER was the standout leading for most of the way in his trial and crossing the line 1st in a quick time. The track was running very fast that week nevertheless, the manner of that effort means he has to go on top. (7) CLEARLY WINNER ran a close 2nd in her heat, settling midfield and running on well. If she brings that form to the races, she can go close first up. (3) JEONGMUN SKIP showed on pace in his trial and from a good draw can do similarly here. (8) POWER HIT and (1) SUCCESS DAY are others who hinted at ability. As ever in these kinds of races, watch the market for further clues.

Selections(10) Supex Winner (7) Clearly Winner (3) Jeongmun Skip (8) Power Hit
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 10

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

Fillies only in this maiden, with five of the eleven racing for the first time. There isn’t a huge amount of convincing form but (1) NAMYANG RUBY does have a 3rd and a 2nd on her record, and while they were recorded in her first two starts last year before a five-month layoff, she showed signs of returning to form with a 5th place last time out. She won’t need to improve much to win this and in a race with zero obvious early speed, might as well lead from the inside gate. (8) OWNER CHAMP has a pair of 5th places. She was well back behind a god winner in a very quick race on June 29th, but a similar effort will see her in the mix here. (7) TOP BLUE improved at start number three on June 20th and can continue to make progress in this company. The debut-makers do not catch the eye so (5) CHAMPUI SIDAE and (2) WONDERFUL WIND are probably the safest other alternatives.

Selections(1) Namyang Ruby (8) Owner Champ (7) Top Blue (5) Champui Sidae
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

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

After taking a couple of goes to figure things out, (1) SUN LIGHT has come from well off the pace to register a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from her latest three starts. The step up to a mile can suit, and she can win here. She may have more improvement in her than probable favourite (3) DIA MATE. The latter enters off back-to-back 3rd places, both at this distance and with Seo Seung-un staying on seems sure to start as the market leader. (8) COME ON GLORY ran 2nd on her only previous try at this distance in March and in this company should be close to the pace with every chance of being in the finish. (9) DOCTOR CARA and (5) CHAMP KING others in the frame.

Selections(1) Sun Light (3) Dia Mate (8) Come On Glory (9) Doctor Cara
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

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

Fillies only here and very competitive. (6) DOCTOR KAREN comes in having run 2nd at this class over 1200M at big odds on July 4th, leading for much of the way. Her win came at 1400M so she can lead again with every chance of staying all the way. (10) STAR FORCE comes up in class having led all the way over a mile on June 27th. She is down 3kg in weight and can measure up. (11) BREEDO MIRACLE was a winner at this class over 1200M in a similar all-filly race on June 15th. She only comes up 1.5kg in weight, the wide draw shouldn’t matter, and she has solid claims again. (8) QUEEN SPICY and (4) JINJU BIT among plenty of others with at least placing chances.

Selections(6) Doctor Karen (10) Star Force (11) Breedo Miracle (8) Queen Spicy
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 9

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

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 13)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00, and at Busan where there a6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported maidens with five of the eight racing for the first time. It’s an absurdly big prize for an ordinary-looking set and despite a poor debut (1) SMILE DAY will be favourite. After winning a trial, he was sent off as favourite on debut but after starting slowly, only manage to rally for 7th. With a better start here and a but more maturity, he can be given another chance. (5) CRAZY STAR ran fairly in his trial for 3rd place in a decent enough time. If he brings that to the races, he will be close. (2) MYEONG MAN was dreadful in his first two but has since been back to trial and looked better. He draws well and surely improves in this company. (8) SYDNEY YEONGUNG was 2nd in both his trials and along with (4) NARO MA STAR, will have backers on a place line.

Selections(1) Smile Day (5) Crazy Star (2) Myeong Man (8) Sydney Yeongung
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start2, 8

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

A slightly better maiden. (8) ALIFER has been gradually progressing across her six starts to date, culminating in a 2nd place on June 7th in a filly only maiden at 1300M. She has never actually been tried over the six-furlongs but in this company, she can sit just behind the speed, and she has as good a chance as any. (9) SOMETHING DARK enters off a best to date 3rd place at 1300M when ridden a bit further forward than in prior efforts. Given similar tactics here, he can be close again. (6) HWANGGEUM MASK has three consecutive 4th place finishes, all at 1300M and should be there or thereabouts again. (3) YONGAM SARANG and (11) MR.CARA are others in the frame.

Selections(8) Alifer (9) Something Dark (6) Hwanggeum Mask (3) Yongam Sarang
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

More maidens. (10) MYEONG POWER has been working towards a win and comes in having registered his best finish so far when 2nd at 1400M on May 25th when ridden on pace for the first time. Despite the wide draw, he can be up there early again, and this time he can win. (9) CHEONGHAE STAR has a couple of 3rd place finishes to her name, including last time out in a filly only maiden at this distance on June 7th when settling midfield and running on. She has the fastest time for the 1300M and should be aiming to match or better that 3rd place here. (1) RAON PARANOMA should get an easy run to the lead from the inside gate and third-up can be peaking. (11) HERO CHOICE and (7) VALKYRIE are other place chances.

Selections(10) Myeong Power (9) Cheonghae Star (1) Raon Paranoma (11) Hero Choice
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 10, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Fillies and mares only here and it’s hard to go against (5) YEOSU SUPER STAR. After winning her first two to get promoted to this level in double-quick time, she ran a very good 2nd on her first try at this class and distance on June 6th, racing handy throughout. She should have benefitted from that experience and continuing under a light weight, she should be going one better. (3) UNION CHAMP is the danger. A promising juvenile last year she missed six months but returned in April to win over 1300M and then run 2nd at 1400M at this class. The mile can suit and third-up she can be peaking. (6) LIME TREE comes out of the Triple Tiara where she was 4th in both the Luna and the Oaks and then 5th in the Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup. Lightly weighted, she should be in the mix. (2) WONDERFUL CUTIE and (8) ACE HIGH others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Yeosu Super Star (3) Union Champ (6) Lime Tree (2) Wonderful Cutie
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

Fillies (and one mare) only. (7) SSAK DANAEUN didn’t do much on debut last November and didn’t reappear until April. She has been much better with a win and a 3rd in two starts back, the latter at this class over 1300M on May 25th, racing on pace. She can be on or close to the speed here and can win. (10) SONEULNAMILOE got her maiden win two starts back and then ran 3rd at 1300M having led for most of the way on June 14th. Her draw isn’t ideal but with some early luck she can get forward and be a danger. (3) ALL NUT comes back to the distance at which she got her win and from a good draw and with Moon Se-young up, she will have plenty of supporters (11) YEOWANG SOCKS and (4) EXCELLENT HANSEN others who can go close.

Selections(7) Ssak Danaeun (10) Soneulnaemileo (3) All Nut (11) Yeowang Socks
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 10

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

Several of these raced each other over this distance on June 15th, including (7) POWER STONE, who was making his debut. He ran well, overcoming a slow start to finish 3rd, and with some natural improvement, he can win this. That will mean overturning the form on (9) JUST SHINY, who was 2nd in that race, showing handy throughout. He can sit on or close to the speed and he should be close again today. (4) SUCCESS POWER was 4th in that race. That continued a progression from his debut, and he is another who can be on the early speed and in this a long way. (8) GLORY SUNSHINE and (2) VICTORY STORY are others who can challenge for the places.

Selections(7) Power Stone (9) Just Shiny (4) Success Power (8) Glory Sunshine
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

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

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

2024 Derby winner Eunpa Sarang goes at Seoul on Saturday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all nine making their racecourse debuts. (5) HWANSANGUI NARA was by some margin the standout in trials, leading all the way and crossing the line plenty ahead in a good time. She can lead here and will be a warm favourite to oblige. (1) POWERFUL PARTNER and (6) DREAM DIA trailed up together on June 26th and ultimately finished in 2nd and 3rd places in good times. Both showed on pace and if they bring tha form to the races, they shape as the main dangers here. (8) NAOL PASS was a fair 3rd in her trial, well beaten by an experienced horse in 1st but showing enough to suggest she has potential. Moon Se-young being booked will tempt some. Those four will be at the top of the market with (2) APATEU perhaps the next best.

Selections(5) Hwansangui Nara (1) Powerful Partner (6) Dream Dia (8) Naol Pass
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

After a very good trial, (10) AIRFORCEONE was sent off as favourite over 1000M on debut but ran 2nd from on the pace in a good time. He looked a bit green that day but should have benefited from the experience and he is the one to beat here. (7) THUNDER FIGHTER took several trials to be ready but then ran a fair 4th on debut over 1200M on June 7th, settling midfield and running on well. He too should have come on for that run and can get closer here. (3) CHRYSOL PEACE perhaps wasn’t ready when debuting without distinction back in January. He looked much better when trialing up again in June, and he should be a different prospect today. Among the debut-makers, (11) THE KING TIME looks the most likely to make an immediate impact. Returning to experience, (5) BIBA CHARM was a fair 5th on debut and can improve.

Selections(10) Airforceone (7) Thunder Fighter (3) Chrysol Peace (11) The King Time
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

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

(7) ECLIPSE TANGO has three 4th place finishes from four starts so far, including his latest on June 14th when he led for much of the way around 1700M. He cuts back in trip and with Moon Se-young climbing on for the first time, he can lead again and this time go all the way. That will mean overturning the form on (2) STREET RUBY, who was 2nd in that June 14th race, settling midfield and running on. He draws well and can be competitive here too. (8) GWANAKSAN WONDERFUL hinted at ability in three outings a the end of last year and the beginning of this with a 2nd and a 3rd. She races for the first time since February but looked well when winning a June trial and can go well first up. (6) BULGEUNTAEYANG and (3) EUNPA SWEET are others in the frame.

Selections(7) Eclipse Tango (2) Street Ruby (8) Gwanaksan Wonderful (6) Bulgeuntaeyang
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start6, 7, 9, 10

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

It’s been a while since (8) STUNNING FLATTER got his sole win so far, but he enters with recent form reading well, his latest being a 3rd place at this class over 1400M on June 16th. In this company he can settle behind the speed and could prove too strong late on. (1) NAMSAN MINAM took a couple of goes to get accustomed to this level but enters off a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two. From the inside gate, he can be on pace and in this a long way. (4) KHAS too went a little cold but is seemingly coming back into form with a solid 4th place over 1400M last time out and can be in the mix again here. (3) SEOBU SKY comes up in class following a maiden win and can measure up. (9) PURGE RUBY another place chance.

Selections(8) Stunning Flatter (1) Namsan Minam (4) Khas (3) Seobu Sky
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

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

(6) UNIVERSAL was a winner on debut over 1000M on May 31st, settling handy to the speed before taking things up in the home straight and running away from her rivals. She comes up in class here and in distance, but the manner of that victory suggests there can be more to come. (10) MENI WIN showed signs of coming back into form with a runner-up finish at this class and distance on May 24th when leading for most of the way. He has the challenge of the widest gate this time but looks well in. (8) ROYAL PLUS got both her wins so far at this distance and enters off a solid 3rd place on June 28th. He is another who should be on the speed and can be in this a long way. The form drops off after those three with (4) BREEDO TROPHY and (3) EAST KING STONE perhaps with the potential to pick up.

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

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

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all twelve racing for the first time. (2) MAGIC TREE was as good as any in trials, settling in midfield and running on well for 3rd. She draws nicely and bringing that form to the races, she should be close. (3) CRYSTAL MULGYEOL ran 2nd in her heat having been handy throughout. Her time too was good and well drawn she is a potential leader here. (1) RIPPLES MARINE and (5) GLOBAL ONE PICK both posted respectable times in their heats and will have backers at least on a place line. (12) MISS SNIPER is the wildcard as while she didn’t catch the eye in her trial, the booking of Seo Seung-un aboard will make plenty take note.

Selections(2) Magic Tree (3) Crystal Mulgyeol (1) Ripples Marine (5) Global One Pick
Next Best12, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

(9) SWEET BELLE led for most of the way around on her debut over this distance on May 30th ultimately being passed – and well beaten – late on by the favourite. She should have come on for that run, she can lead again, and this time, she can go one better. (4) LADY OF WIN had the challenge of the widest gate on her debut on June 6th but overcame it well to sit midfield before running of for 3rd place. She too should have derived benefit from the experience and can get even closer today. (7) CHOEGANG LOUIS did nothing on debut but has since been back to trial (when he beat Magic Tree from race 1) and he can be given another chance here. (2) WORLD HANI has similarly been back to trial since the latest of her very ordinary appearances so far and hinted she was ready to get better. Of the three debut-makers. (8) SUCCESS PYEONGHWA looked the best in trials.

Selections(9) Sweet Belle (4) Lady of Win (7) Choegang Louis (2) World Hani
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 9

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

(3) WORLD TAEYANG missed the break last time before running on for what was, in the circumstances, a fair midfield finish over 1400M. At the start before he overcame a wide draw to run 3rd at this distance and from a better gate and with Franco back on, she has as good a chance as any. (4) REMENT was beaten by a couple of these at this distance on June 6th but he is another who has placed at 1600M as recently as May and he should be in the mix here. (10) BABYLON FOX finished 3rd in that June 6th race, showing on pace and he can be in the mix again. (1) GLORY ALPHA and (8) CRUELLA are other place chances.

Selections(3) World Taeyang (4) Rement (10) Babylon Fox (1) Glory Alpha
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start6, 7, 9, 10

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

(3) B.K DANCING GIRL enters having run 2nd in the fastest ever race at Busan at this class and distance on June 22nd when the track was lightning fast. She is a two-time winner over 1200M, se is lightly weighted and drawn well, and in this company, she shapes as a short price favourite. Clear second favourite is (7) BUSAN TODAY. She has two wins and three further placings at this trip including last time out when 2nd at this class on June 13th, racing on pace. In this small field, she will be on pace again and can be in this a long way. (8) SMART SHAMAL is an import who began at this class and while he needs a line through his latest, does have a 2nd and a 3rd to his name and that’s enough to put him in line for the minors here. (2) PRIME ROCK and (1) BLUE SKY are the other plausible place chances.

Selections(3) B.K Dancing Girl (7) Busan Today (8) Smart Shamal (2) Prime Rock
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 6)

Seoul hosts 11 Sunday races between 10:35 and 18:00 while there are 6 at Busan from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) CHRYSOL DONGHAE ran a solid 2nd on debut back in January, showing on pace. He hasn’t appeared since, but he looked well enough when 4th in a good trial in mid-June. If he can pick up from where he left off, he will take some beating. The main danger is also returning from a layoff. (3) NAMCHON TOWN didn’t do much in three outings in the second half of last year but looked more promising when trialing at the end of May. Drawn well, if that trial can translate to races, he can place. Among the debut-makers (4) LONDON MONSTER looked the best, trialing behind Chrysol Donghae. (6) TRIPLE PALMETTO and another returning one, (7) MANI NODAGI, are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(9) Chrysol Donghae (3) Namchon Town (4) London Monster (6) Triple Palmetto
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

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

Fillies only. (4) SUHYANG MIIN has finished no worse than 5th in her seven starts to date with her win coming over 1300M two outings back. She has since registered a 3rd and a 2nd at this class and distance, leading both times, and in this company, she can lead all the way. (2) GOLD CATCHER was a winner at start number two over 1300M on June 7th, settling back and running on. She is up in class but down in weight and drawn well, she can measure up. (10) DONKEY PLAY was a winner at this class over 1300M last time out. That was back in April so she comes in following an eleven-week break and she is up in weight, but she can go close again. (6) LUCKY DAY and (1) SHINE BOLT others to consider.

Selections(4) Suhyang Miin (2) Gold Catcher (10) Donkey Play (6) Lucky Day
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 11

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

(6) SMART TAKE got her maiden win at start three over 1200M on March 30th and has since run 3rd on both her goes at this class. She stays at a light weight, draws better, and the slight step up in trip can see her return to the winner’s circle. (2) HIGH FOLLY got his win at 1400M and comes in similarly having run 3rd in both his latest two, leading in both. From a good draw, he can be on the speed again and can be in this a long way. (7) WONPYEONG GANGJA has finished 4th in both outings since returning from almost a year out in April. He’s one for one at this distance and third-up this preparation, he can be peaking fitness wise. (5) ROYAL BEST and the up in class (1) GOOD FRIEND are others in the frame.

Selections(6) Smart Take (2) High Folly (7) Wonpyeong Gangja (5) Royal Best
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Tricky opener on the south coast so we’ll take a chance on (9) PRIME SECRET. An import who began racing at this class has only appeared twice but has shown promise with a 2nd at 1200M and 4th at a mile. Third-up he can be peaking, and the distance can suit at what will probably be an each-way price. (5) WONDER DRAGON returned from eight months out to show on pace and then weaken over this class and distance on June 13th. He has won at 1400M and should strip fitter for that run and Seo Seung-un climbing on means he may start as favourite. (4) QUEEN OF DRAGON is rarely far away and should be in the placing mix again. The returning (1) GEUMA PRECEDE along with (8) GWANGYAEUIHAMSUNG are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Prime Secret (5) Wonder Dragon (4) Queen Of Dragon (1) Geuma Precede
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

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

Fillies and mares only. (4) CHOWON DOLPUNG enters off a class and distance 3rd place on June 1st when settling handy to the speed and running on, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. That was her first try at 1400M and staying under a very light weight, she looks to be the one to beat here. (6) SMILE GOLD returns to action for the first time since last September. Of her last four outings before the layoff, she won two and ran 2nd in two and she looked well enough when winning a trial two weeks ago. She should be on pace and in this a long way. Veteran (7) SEMYEONG LADY finally comes up to this class having won at 1200M on June 7th. Her other two wins came at this trip and down in weight, she can be competitive at a big price (1) AMAZING STAR and (3) RAON THE DAESE other chances.

Selections(4) Chowon Dolpung (6) Smile Gold (7) Semyeong Lady (1) Amazing Star
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

(10) APDOJEOK NUMBERONE is still seeking his first win but has two 4th places, a 3rd and a 2nd from his four starts so far. Last time out he ran 3rd at 1300M, showing on pace, Franco stays on, and today can be his day. (4) FLEX TAP has been getting better with each start and enters following a 3rd place over this distance on May 30th when handy throughout. She can continue to make progress here. (5) CHEONPUNG enters off a best to date finish of 3rd on June 8th at this distance with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He comes into a better gate today and is the expected pace setter. (8) BIGBANG CLASS and (3) CARAT KING others who can improve.  

Selections(10) Apdojeok Numberone (4) Flex Tap (5) Cheonpung (8) Bigbang Class
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 10

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 5)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Ten previously unraced juveniles so we must head to the trial videos. (6) REVERENCE trailed up in 3rd place in a fair time behind two experienced racehorses, showing close to the pace. Moon Se-young is on and that will be enough for plenty. The curiously named (1) WONPYEONG SKET went through two trials, winning the first at the start of May and then finishing back in a second from a wide draw. From the inside gate we can be expecting more of the former here. (10) GEOSEN MUJEOK ran on well for 4th in his heat in the same time as Reverence and can go well first-up. (4) STORM TROOPER and (8) BLISS STAR others who hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(6) Reverence (1) Wonpyeong Sket (10) Geosen Mujeok (4) Storm Trooper
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

Fillies (and one mare) only in this maiden. Five months after her debut, (3) PINE PINK returned to run 2nd at this distance on May 18th, settling midfield and running on. She was well beaten by a good winner but should stirp fitter for that run and can go one better. (9) GWANAKSAN JOY has five top four finishes from six starts including her latest when she led over 1200M. She’ll lead again here and once more can be in it a long way. (8) FOX TROT was last seen running an improved 3rd place in a similar race to this. She is in fresh from eight weeks off and can match or better that today. (6) SEMYEONG GHOST and (7) HYEWONYONGMA are others who can be in the mix.

Selections(3) Pine Pink (9) Gwanaksan Joy (8) Fox Trot (6) Semyeong Ghost
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(6) DAEWONYONGMA is yet to win in fifteen attempts, but his recent form reads well with a 2nd and a 4th in two tries since coming up to this class. In this company he should be on pace and he can be in the finish.  (4) P N S OHOH returned from exactly a year out to win at this distance on June 8th, settling handy and proving too strong. He is up in class here but is down in weight and if anything should strip fitter for that run and can measure up. (1) CHEONGONGUI SEOM returned to action on June 6th for the first time since last September and, having won a trial, was sent off as favourite over 1400M and proceeded to lead early but weakened late on. He should have come on for that run, he drops back in trip, draws well, and can go much better here. (11) BREEDO KING STAR and (3) TUAREG NINE are others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Daewonyongma (4) P N S Ohoh (1) Cheongongui Seom (11) Breedo King Star
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 11

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

(8) CHOEGANG SPEED was a winner at start number three over 1200M in May and then followed up with 2nd place on his first try at this class over 1300M on June 8th when coming from well off the place. He comes up in weight, but CC stays on, and the slight step up in trip can suit. (5) BURUI SEGYE took a few more goes to figure things out but comes up in class following an 2nd place and then a win in his latest two the former at this distance. He is up in class but down 3kg in weight and can continue his good run of form here. (2) MEGA STEP came from well back to run 2nd at this class over 1300M on May 25th and can be running on strong late again here. (6) STUNNING STEP and (4) MINT PLAY among other placing chances.

Selections(8) Choegang Speed (5) Burui Segye (2) Mega Step (6) Stunning Step
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 10

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

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

July’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

As ever, Seo Seung-un has a solid book of rides at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

A full field of juvenile maidens with eleven of the twelve racing for the first time. The sole experienced one goes on top though as (10) DOCTOR CENTUM ran a solid 2nd on a quick time on debut on June 13th, settling midfield and running on. He was well beaten by a good winner but should have come on for the run. (9) ENCORE led every step of the way to win his trial by a lazy fourteen-lengths and if he brings that form to the races, he could score first up. (12) ALL THE BEST ran 2nd in her heat in a good time and while she has the challenge of the widest gate, can be competitive. (1) HWARYEOHAN SUNGAN and (4) TRICK SHOT were 4th and 5th when trialing together in fair times. The latter is out of a Korean Oaks winner and both showed promise.

Selections(10) Doctor Centum (9) Encore (12) All The Best (1) Hwaryeohan Sungan
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 11

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

(4) DOCTOR SOLAR has a 2nd place on his record and comes in here having beaten a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 4th place at a mile on May 30th. That runner-up effort was at this trip, and he has as good a chance as any in a competitive race. (10) GOLDMASK is a twenty-race maiden but enters following his best finish to date when 2nd at a mile on June 13th. He has the fastest time among these for the distance (admittedly from more tries) and he can go close again. (11) GOLDEN CARD has five finishes between 3rd and 5th She likes to race on pace, so the wide gate is a challenge but in this company she looks a solid place chance. (9) BLACK SQUALL and (3) SEOBU GAMBLE, the latter having shown very nicely in a June trial, others to consider.

Selections(4) Doctor Solar (10) Goldmask (11) Golden Card (9) Black Squall
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Small but competitive field. (8) BLACK VOLT has done his recent work at a mile but may be ready to come back in trip having shown close to the speed in his latest couple, finishing 4th and 5th. In this company, he should be on pace again and he can be in this a long way. (5) HONORED KHAN similarly comes back in trip having gone around two-turns in his latest three, scoring a 3rd place at 1800M two outings back. He also has a 3rd place at this distance and should be in the finish. (1) AMAZING BOSS was only ordinary last time out at 1200M, but he has won at this distance and can be given another chance here. (3) FABULOUS BEATER and (9) NAEPYEON are other place chances.

Selections(8) Black Volt (5) Honored Khan (1) Amazing Boss (3) Fabulous Beater
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

(1) SO GOOD got his maiden win at start number four over 1200M in March and has since run 2nd and 4th in two tries at this level, with the 2nd coming at this distance. He was slow away last time out but from the inside gate, Seo Seung-un can pick his spot, and he can be too strong. The danger is (10) DOCTOR CITY. He comes in off a win at this class over 1200M on June 6th when on pace throughout. He comes up 2kg in weight and has the challenge of a wider draw, but on that showing he has every chance of backing up. (9) BEOLGYOUI BOM is yet to win but has four 3rd place finishes from six starts, three at this distance. He is another who wasn’t away fluently last time out but who should be at least targeting the places again. (11) RALLY MAN and (8) DAEGIL HERO other minor money chances.

Selections(1) So Good (10) Doctor City (9) Beolgyoui Bom (11) Rally Man
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

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

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BUSAN OWNERS’ CUP 2025 – PREVIEW & FORM COMMENTS

SPEED YOUNG has spent most of his career playing second-fiddle to stablemate Global Hit but that wasn’t the case in last year’s Busan Owners’ Cup, and it won’t be this time either as the defending champion will be favourite when he takes on fifteen rivals on Sunday afternoon (1600M KOR-G3). SEE HERE FOR A FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 RACES ACROSS SEOUL AND BUSAN ON SUNDAY.

Can Wonpyeong Storm step up? (Pic: KRA)

A successful defence for Speed Young will require him to overcome some very promising younger horses. WONPYEONG STORM won his first five races before being well beaten when sent in against the elite in the first leg of the Stayer Series over 2000M in March. That proved to be too much too soon but after a couple of months rest, he returned to win at this distance in May, and he should be a different prospect here.

Fellow three-year-old FINAL K has won five from six and is also an exciting prospect while DESPITE WIN, a year older, has won five from nine and bog things are expected.

Among the more established rivals, SUCCESS BAEKPA and BLACK MAMBA are done no favours by the draw but their quality can see them in the mix, while BLACK MUSK is the wildcard. He can blow hot or cold but on his day is as good as any.  

The Busan Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) is the concluding race 6 on Sunday’s card at Busan with a local post time of 16:30. There are also 11 Sunday races at Seoul.

1. DESPITE WIN – Winner of five from nine in total including twice at this distance. Comes off a class 1 (rating capped at 95) win at 2000M on May 30th and while this is a big step up in quality, can be competitive. Seo Seung-un rides.

2. FINAL K – Only defeat came behind Wonpyeong Storm over 1200M last November. Most recently won a Trophy race for three-year-olds in April over 1800M, settling handy and running on. Big step up in grade but loads of potential.

3. WONPYEONG STORM – The Herald Business proved too much too soon in March but after a couple of months off, he returned to winning ways at a mile at Class 1. High ceiling and a big chance.

4. BYEOLNARA JILJU – Lowest rated in the race, he only beat one home in last month’s Busan Mayor’s Cup, and he will be one of the longest shots on the board again.

5. BOLT MAN – A multiple winner at class 1 including over this distance. He was well back in the first two legs of the Stayer Series though and this isn’t much easier.

6. NAOL SNIPER – Always runs in top class company and was 6th of fourteen here in last month’s Busan Mayor’s Cup. Form to overturn here but at his best can be a place chance.

7. BLACK MUSK – Graded race winner who mixes his form. He was huge 2nd in SBS Sports Sprint in April before struggling in the SROA Chairman’s Sprint last month. First go at a mile since running midfield in this race three years ago. Third-up so may be peaking.

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Owners’ Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (June 29)

The Busan Owners’ Cup headlines Sunday racing. The final Group race until August is the concluding event on the 6-race program at Busan which runs from 12:05 to 16:30. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Speed Young will be favourite to successfully defend his Owners’ Cup crown (Pic: KRA)

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

Competitive maiden with three of the eleven racing for the first time. (4) RAON THE BIG RED went back to trial between his first and second starts and was much improved in the latter, running 3rd at this distance on May 25th. Third up he can be peaking and from a good draw, he can win. (8) AFLEET RUN has four top five finishes from his five outings to date with his best being a 2nd place at this distance in March. He should be on pace here and can be in this a long way. Among the first timers, (2) MUJEHAN GEUP looks the most likely to make an immediate impact based on trials. Returning to the experience, (7) BEST DREAM and (10) SPICE BAND may improve.

Selections(4) Raon The Big Red (8) Afleet Run (2) Mujehan Geup (7) Best Dream
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (7) GYEOUL JANGMI enters off a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at 1300M and both times settling midfield and running on. The step up to 1400M can suit and she is the one to beat here. The danger is (10) CLUB Q. She has a 3rd and a 2nd in her two outings, the latter at 1300M on June 1sr. She too has been doing her best work late and third up she can be peaking. (11) WONDERFUL CATHAY was an improved 3rd at start number five when tried at this distance for the first time on May 24th and while she has the challenge of the widest gate, she can build on that here. (9) GEOLJAK CHUKJE and (2) TRIPLE JENNY among plenty of others in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Gyeoul Jangmi (10) Club Q (11) Wonderful Cathay (9) Geoljak Chukje
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 9

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

(2) KING WARRIOR got his maiden win two outings back at this distance and followed up with a solid 4th place at 1400M on his first try at this class on May 18th when he led for much of the way around. He is fairly weighted, draws well to lead, and cut slightly back in trip he can go all the way. (7) YEONGGWANGUI SKY had been building towards a maiden win, and it duly arrived on May 25th when he led all the way over 1200M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but he is down in weight, and he can measure up. (4) POWER BAND has a 3rd and a 4th from his latest two, both at this class over 1400M and under a light weight she can be there or thereabouts again. (8) SONE SONJABGO and (3) FREE TIME are the other minor money chances.

Selections(2) King Warrior (7) Yeonggwangui Sky (4) Power Band (8) Sone Sonjabgo
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. After an ordinary debut, (11) GRAND MORE was a significantly improved 2nd at start number two on May 16th, leading for most of the way and only going down very narrowly. He needs to navigate the widest gate but if he gets to the front he will be difficult to pass. (4) WORLD TOP TIER was a creditable 3rd on debut over 1200M on May 23rd. She should have come on for that run and shapes as the main danger. Among the first timers, (7) CHAMPUI SIDAE ran 3rd in a fair time in a trial in late May and if she brings that form to the races, she can be competitive first up. (5) JIJONSANBANG also hinted at ability across two heats and can be considered. Returning to experienced ones, (3) OWNER CHAMP is perhaps the next most likely to improve.

Selections(11) Grand More (4) World Top Tier (7) Champui Sidae (5) Jijonsanbang
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

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

(6) FUNNY TAP raced twice last autumn for one win over this distance and then didn’t re-appear until May. She looked very good on her return, finishing 2nd at this class and distance on May 24th. She should strip fitter for that run, and she will be a hot favourite to go one better here. It’s been a while since (8) SOLAIRE got his solitary win, but he comes in with recent form reading well with a 3rd, a 2nd, and a 4th from his latest three, most recently behind Funny Tap in that May 24th race. He likes to come from off the pace, and he can be a danger late here. (5) GANDAGO was a winner at this class over 1400M two starts back and while he can mix his form, can be in the finish again. (2) GROW, a big price winner at this class last time, along with (4) ARCH RUNNER, are other place chances.

Selections(6) Funny Tap (8) Solaire (5) Gandago (2) Grow
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 9

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 28)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 9 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

(8) BITNARA has run 3rd in both his latest two at 1300M and 1400M, racing close to the pace both times. He can be on pace here again and is favoured to go one better against this set of opposition. (9) SEOUL NONGBU has a 5th and a 4th from his two outings so far, most recently at this distance in a very slow race on March 30th. He comes in fresh after thirteen weeks out and can go closer. (4) RAON THE BELMONT came home in 3rd place on his latest start on May 18th despite racing ungenerously for much of the way. He was sent back to trial as a result and having come through that well, with better manners here, he can be a threat. (2) BULGUKSIDAE and (6) X FACTOR others in the frame.

Selections(8) Bitnara (9) Seoul Nongbu (4) Raon The Belmont (2) Bulguksidae
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

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

Not the strongest of maidens. (10) MALSGO comes in off a best to date 2nd place on May 24th over this distance when handy throughout. He is the only one in the field to have placed – he has done it twice – and despite the wide draw he should have enough about him to get to the speed and win. (5) GOLD SPINNING was an improved 4th at start four over 1200M on May 11th and can continue to make progress here. (2) GANGCHEOL POWER comes back in trip after recent efforts at further including two 4th places form his latest four and that’s enough to put him in the placing mix here. (7) ROAD TO SPEAR and (4) BLUE DRAGON others who could feature.

Selections(10) Malsgo (5) Gold Spinning (2) Gangcheol Power (7) Road To Spear
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 10

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

Small but quite competitive field. (3) HEEMANGBAND has recorded her best results so far since stepping up to this distance with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two. She likes to settle back and run on and with Moon Se-young aboard for the first time, today can be the day. (4) SEUNGNI BAROWS enters off back-to-back 3rd places over 1400M, coming from off the pace both times. He steps up to two turns for the first time and it can suit. (6) BLUE SUN has two 5th places and a 3rd from his three outings to date. He too comes up to this trip for the first time and can be a danger late on. (7) BLACK SMILE and (8) TTOSUNI SEOUL need lines through their respective latest outings but can be in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Heemangband (4) Seungni Barows (6) Blue Sun (7) Black Smile
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 8

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

(4) DRAGON KILLER is yet to win in four attempts but has never finished any worse than 3rd. That’s where he finished on his first try at this class over 1300M on June 1st having led for part of the way around, and he has every chance here. (11) WESTERN GUN has mixed his form across six starts so far with three strong performances and three somewhat less so. He hasn’t raced at this trip before but looks worth a chance in this company. (3) JOSE was an all the way maiden winner on June 6th at this class and distance. She is up 2.5kg in weight, but that’s balanced by a good draw, and she can be a danger again. (7) GOOD FIGHTER and (2) GEOSEON POKJU others to consider.

Selections(4) Dragon Killer (11) Western Gun (3) Jose (7) Good Fighter
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 11

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

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