Racing Previews

Luna Stakes Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (March 31)

March wraps up with the first leg of the Triple Tiara for three-year-old fillies in the shape of the Listed Luna Stakes over a mile at Busan. There are 6 races at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05 while in Seoul there are 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Baekduui Kkkum is among the fillies going for the Luna Stakes (Pic: KRA)

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time and one of those four can go on top. (1) BLACK SPECTER took two goes to qualify but did so in style on February 22nd, settling handy and running on to cross the line in front in a decent time. He draws nicely and if he can bring that form to the races, he can win. The exposed form isn’t impressive with only (9) EUNPA PARTNER having pocketed any prize money. That came at his latest start on February 24th when a much-improved 3rd over 1200M. A repeat of that performance will see him closer in this company. It is very to make a case for any of the others. (2) SONE SONJABGO has raced just once, finishing 7th behind Eunpa Partner. She should have come on for that run and can improve. (11) SEMYEONG GHOST and (8) GEUMSEONG YEOJE could be other improvers but without much confidence.

Selections(1) Black Specter (9) Eunpa Partner (2) Sone Sonjabgo (11) Semyeong Ghost
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 11

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

(1) EUNPA JOY looks the one to beat here. That’s based on his last start effort when 2nd over 1300M having settled midfield and finished off well. The slight step up in trip can suit and he can go one better today. (4) STUNNING MONEY has finished in the top-five on five of six occasions with a 2nd and a 3rd in the mix over 1300M. He has been doing his best work late in his races so for him too, the additional half furlong can help, and he should be there or thereabouts again. (2) P N S NALA was 5th behind Eunpa Partner last time out but it was only his second start and he showed improvement from his first. He draws nicely again to be on pace, and he should get closer. (11) HEUNGHAENG BULPAE and (7) MARUBYEOL among other placing chances.

Selections(1) Eunpa Joy (4) Stunning Money (2) P N S Nala (11) Heunghaeng Bulpae
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 6, 9, 11

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

(6) BEOLGYO FRANCHE has shown slow but steady improvement across four starts so far with his 5th place on March 3rd over this distance being his best. He also looked sharp when winning a trial prior to that and in this company, he shapes as the winner. (11) BURUI TONGCHI ran 3rd on debut last October but hasn’t raced since. He didn’t offer many clues when trialling up at the start of this month but if he can deliver a similar first-up run here, he won’t be far away. (10) DRIVING FORCE offered little in two outings around the turn of the year. She went back to trial at the end of February and looked much more competent running on pace and finishing in a good time. Expect improvement here. (1) GOLDMASK and (3) SWEET BEOMHAN others to consider for the minors.

Selections(6) Beolgyo Franche (11) Burui Tongchi (10) Driving Force (1) Goldmask
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

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

(8) GEUMAK DIA is yet to win, having been promoted to this class with back-to-back 2nd places in his opening two runs. He has run fairly in two starts at this class, both over 1300M, finishing 5th and 6th with the margins not having been huge. The slight step back in trip can be in his favour and he has as good a chance as any here. (4) ARCH CLASS got his maiden win at this distance last September and has been gradually getting closer at this level, culminating in 2nd place last time out on February 18th. He draws well to be on the speed here and he has potential winning claims. (6) VELVETY returned from three months out to run fairly over 1400M on March 10th. She comes down in the weights and should strip fitter this time. (2) GANA POWER and (10) GEUMBIT GANGHO others in the hunt.

Selections(8) Geumak Dia (4) Arch Class (6) Velvety (2) Gana Power
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 10

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

(12) BLACK FALCON has a 2nd and a 3rd among his last three starts most recently coming from well off the pace over 1200M. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem as he has a strong finish on him, and today can be his day. (1) WORLD MAID CAT was disappointing on his second outing last month but if we go on his January debut when he came from off the pace to run 2nd, he is worth another chance here and Moon Se-young climbs on. (2) ALICE MARINE was a significantly improved 2nd on March 1st racing handy and running on over this distance. She draws nicely again and can match or better that here. (8) HAERANG YOUNGUNG and (10) WE LIKE MONEY are others to consider for the places.

Selections(12) Black Falcon (1) World Maid Cat (2) Alice Marine (8) Haerang Youngung
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (4) FIJI BLADE remains winless after ten attempts but has no fewer than eight top-five finishes. That includes her latest on February 24th when after settling at the back, she ran on for a close 3rd over 1200M. She comes up 2.5kg in the weights but that’s balanced by a much better gate, and she can make her breakthrough here. (7) DIANA and (6) TIZ MORNING both come up in class having registered their maiden wins on their respective third career starts, the former over 1200M and the later at this trip. They both like to race on pace, and both can measure up in this company. (2) ARCH RUNNER is another non-winner but has a 2nd and a 4th at this class and distance from her latest two and she should be close again. (1) LADY CODI another in the hunt.

Selections(4) Fiji Blade (7) Diana (6) Tiz Morning (2) Arch Runner
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 30)

The blossoms may not be quite out yet but racing has moved to its Cherry Blossom Festival schedule for Saturdays. There will be 11 races at Seoul from 14:45 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Chances are that Malma will be making an appearance over the weekend (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in this maiden and it’s one of the two debut-makers who is set to be the warm favourite. (9) KKUMUI HYANGGI went through a couple of trials last summer without making it to the races but came back into training this year and went through a quick trial in February, settling back and working home well. This is a very soft race to start in and if she brings the trial form, she should win. The other first-timer is (5) KOTAP. She went through three trials getting it right in the 3rd of them in a fair time (albeit a full three seconds behind Eoma Eoma). Again, that should be enough to put her in the places here. The exposed form is lacking. (8) THUNDER STORM ran 4th on debut and while she was well back on her reappearance on February 17th, she still beat a couple of these. (11) CUPID DREAM and (10) P N S ME others who may improve.

Selections(9) Kkumui Hyanggi (5) Kotap (8) Thunder Storm (11) Cupid Dream
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start1, 4, 10, 11

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

Another weak maiden. (3) GALSAEK DOJEONJA is one of only two here with a top-three finish to his name, recorded over 1200M last October. He has raced fairly in three subsequent appearances and from a good draw and among weak company, he may be further forward today. He has as good a chance as any. (5) GLOBAL CODIE will also be on pace. His best so far is a 4th place on debut and comes in following a 5th and a 6th from his latest two. CC climbing up today will probably give him favourite status. (8) ARNOLD QUEEN has hinted at ability across her three starts so far and has trialled up fairly since her latest appearance in January. (1) CROQUIS is the other to have achieved a to-three and that’s enough to put her in the hunt here. (2) THUNDER YEOGEOL another in the hunt for the minors.

Selections(3) Galsaek Dojeonja (5) Global Codie (8) Arnold Queen (1) Croquis
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 11

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

(3) BEST DAERO ran 4th on debut over 1200M in January and followed up with a 2nd place at this distance on March 2nd when racing prominently throughout from a wide gate. He draws nicely to lead this time and he will be a short price favourite to go one better. (6) SAHARAMONG ran an improved 3rd place at start number three over 1200M in January. She comes in after eleven weeks out here and given her running style so far, the slight step up in trip can suit. (4) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER is yet to finish in the top-two in twenty-two starts but he has finished between 3rd and 5th on no fewer than ten occasions. He should be in the prize-money mix again here. (2) GLORY CHARM and debut-maker (7) MK STAR others who can compete for the minors.

Selections(3) Best Daero (6) Saharamong (4) Hampyeong Fighter (2) Glory Charm
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 10

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

(10) THE PLAYER was thought of highly enough to be given his chance in the G2 Breeders’ Cup for juveniles last December. He only beat one home, but he returned to form when 2nd on his first try at this distance on February 25th. He comes up 2kg in the weights, and he draws a touch wider than ideal, but he’ll be a strong favourite. (7) DONGHAENG FIRST is yet to win in twelve attempts but has no fewer than ten top-five finishes. That includes her latest just two weeks ago when 4th over 1400M. She remains under a light weight and stretches out to two-turns for the first time. (2) STAR CHANGER is also winless but comes up to this class for the first time following three consecutive 3rd place finishes. She comes up significantly in trip too, but she draws well, carries a light weight, and she can be competitive. (3) PLAN B and (6) HAENGUN BARAM others in the frame.

Selections(10) The Player (7) Donghaeng First (2) Star Changer (3) Plan B
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 11

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

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Busan Friday Evening: Race-By-Race Preview (March 29)

For the next three-weeks, to try and coincide with the cherry blossom season, racing on Fridays and Saturdays moves to a late afternoon and evening schedule (Sundays will follow the normal daytime race times). It begins at Busan on Friday where there is an 8-race card from 15:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews

Busan nights

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

Maiden fillies in the opener. (7) CHEONHAJIYU came from off the pace to run a good 2nd on debut over 1200M on February 22nd. She should have come on for that run, the additional half furlong can suit, and jockey Franco Da Silva can notch his 400th Korean winner here. Speaking of jockeys, “The Moon” is working Busan Friday! Seoul’s eight-time champion rider Moon Se-young is in town to ride in Sunday’s Luna Stakes and climbs up on (2) SUPREME QUEEN here. She has a 2nd place to her name at this distance two starts back and from a great draw, she should be on pace and in this a long way. (12) B.K. DOMINER enters off two 3rd place finishes, both at this distance. She drew wide in both of those and ran in well and should be a danger late again. (4) DREAMMA and (5) HYPER FORCE are others on the right trajectory.

Selections(7) Cheonhajiyu (2) Supreme Queen (12) B.K. Dominer (4) Dreamma
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 9

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

(2) ONEULISUNGAN ran 3rd on debut over 1200M on January 21st, settling midfield and running on. He should have derived benefit from that experience, the step up in trip can suit, and he has every chance here. (1) BRUG KINGMAN race twice at the turn of the year, putting in a creditable 2nd and 4th at 1200M and 1400M, the latter rime leading into the closing stages. He comes in fresh following twelve weeks off and from the inside gate, he can go close. (9) BARADEON BADA was an on-pace 3rd over 1300M on February 16h. With not a huge amount of obvious early speed in this race, she should get an easy run towards the front again and can be competitive. (11) STORMY DAY and (4) GOOD KING MAN others with very solid placing claims.

Selections(2) Oneulisungan (1) Brug Kingman (9) Baradeon Bada (11) Stormy Day
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 12

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

(7) LEMON DRAGON was an improved 4th when stepped up to this distance for the first time on February 23rd, having settled midfield and run on well. That was just his third start so there can still be some more improvement to come and against this limited opposition, he can make the breakthrough. (1) CLOUD LOVE looks as though he is finally figuring it out and comes in off a best finish of 3rd – at start number eighteen – on March 3rd. That was over this distance, as were his two prior outings which both resulted in 4th place finishes. He is clearly in the form of his modest career and Seo Seung-un remains aboard. It’s not impossible. The form drops off after those two. Third favourite will be (2) NUNBUSINGIL. That’s based on his last start when only 6th but it was at this distance, and he beat a couple of today’s rivals. (10) CHEONGMAUI JILJU and (5) THE ONE may be potential improvers among an ordinary bunch.

Selections(7) Lemon Dragon (1) Cloud Love (2) Nunbusingil (10) Cheongmaui Jilju
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 10

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

After running 3rd on debut, (5) RUBY STONE got her maiden win at the second time of asking on February 23rd, racing on pace throughout and winning comfortably in a good time over 1200M. She comes up in class here, but the manner of that win suggests that there can be more to come, and she will be a short-price favourite to win again. (8) GUKDAE HERO got his win in a quick race over 1300M back in December. He took a couple of goes to adjust to this class but ran a good 2nd over this distance on March 1st when settling midfield from a wide draw and running on. He comes up slightly in the weights but can aim for at least another runner-up finish here. (4) FLYING ACE got her maiden win over this trip in December and enters off a smart 3rd place over 1300M on March 3rd when she led for much of the way around. Moon Se-young climbs up and she draws nicely. (9) BRAVE CAPTAIN and (11) SANGIM STAR others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Ruby Stone (8) Gukdae Hero (4) Flying Ace (9) Brave Captain
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 11, 12

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

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Donga Ilbo Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 24)

Sunday sees the start of the Queens Tour Spring & Summer Series with the Donga Ilbo Trophy (1800M KOR-Listed) for fillies and mares at Seoul. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10.35 to 18.00, plus 6 at Busan from 11.25 to 16.05. Here are the previews:

Can Wonderful Slew defeat Jeulgeounyeojeong in the Donga Ilbo? (Pic: KRA)

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

Two standouts in this maiden and their form is almost identical. (4) BEST WHIZ has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on January 7th when racing on pace. He comes in fresh after eleven weeks out and from a good draw, should be on the speed again and can win. (10) SPINNING BOOM has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on February 3rd when racing handy throughout. The draw isn’t ideal, but he has a strong finish and should be a big danger. (5) LOVE O MINE ran 3rd on debut in an all-filly maiden at this trip on January 27th, settling back but running on well. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can go well again. (3) BEAUTYWONDERFUL along with debut-maker (7) SONGDANGMANGCHI are others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Best Whiz (10) Spinning Boom (5) Love O Mine (3) Beautywonderful
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

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

It’s hard to go past (1) RAON THE CLIPPER here. After an inauspicious debut last September, he didn’t race again until January when, freshly gelded, he proceeded to post a 3rd and a 2nd, most recently on February 25th over this distance when racing on pace. He draws very well here and third-up this preparation, it should be his day. It isn’t a strong set of opponents. (11) BEAUTIFUL HWASEONG is the only other one for whom a winning case can be made and that’s based on his last start 4th over 1300M when coming from well back. CC in the saddle is a plus. (2) MONEY TOUCH does have a 3rd place to his name and that is enough to get him into the numbers here. (7) SINUI BLUE and (9) HAKSAN DAESE other possibles for the minors.

Selections(1) Raon The Clipper (11) Beautiful Hwaseong (2) Money Touch (7) Sinui Blue
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

(12) BUSAN TODAY sounds like the title of a provincial newspaper, and she could make the headlines here. There was six months between her first start and her second start, that latter one coming on February 18th over 1200M when she showed on pace before finishing in 4th.  She should strip fitter here and can overcome the wide draw. The main danger is drawn only one gate inside. (11) YEONGGWANGUIFIRST was 2nd on debut over 1000M last September and then followed up with a pair of 4th places, both over 1300M. He doesn’t need to lead so the draw shouldn’t be a problem, and he has a strong finish. (5) DREAM TREE is the solitary debut-maker, and this is a nice race to start off in. She came from off the pace to run 5th in her trial in a fair time and the 1300M may suit first up. (2) OAK RIDGE and (7) PUREUN YEOLJEONG other minor chances.

Selections(12) Busan Today (11) Yeonggwanguifirst (5) Dream Tree (2) Oak Ridge
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 12

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

(5) THE GIANT comes in off a much-improved 2nd place at start number five over 1300M when for the first time, he led, and only got narrowly taken down in the final strides. From a good draw, expect similar tactics today and while he is slightly up in trip, he can go one better. (4) BREEDO KING STAR is the main danger. He debuted fairly but without distinction last June and then didn’t reappear again until February 24th. Newly gelded, he made a positive return, finishing 3rd over this trip and he should strip fitter here and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he was sent off as the betting favourite. (8) TRES VITE is yet to finish in the top-three in eighteen starts but he has picked up plenty of minor money – seven times in 4th or 5th – and in this company, he can aim for a to-date best. (2) LONDON GOLD and (7) JECHUK ILHO are the other placing chances.

Selections(5) The Giant (4) Breedo King Star (8) Tres Vite (2) London Gold
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 10

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

(4) MORPHEUS will be a strong favourite here. He has mixed his form a little across his five outings but comes in off a strong 4th place over 1400M when overcoming a wide draw to lead for much of the way. The step up to a mile can suit, he comes into a better gate, and he may take some beating. (1) NANGMAN DAERO too dealt well with a wide draw when 4th over this distance on February 23rd. He comes up 2kg in the weights, but that’s balanced by the inside this time and he can go close. (7) UNJU LEGEND came from off the pace to run 3rd at a mile, also on February 23rd. She makes just her fourth start here and looks to have scope for more progress. (6) LUCKY HIT and (2) BABEL DREAMY are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(4) Morpheus (1) Nangman Daero (7) Unju Legend (6) Lucky Hit
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

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

(11) GIANT M took a couple of goes to figure things out but he got his maiden win at the fourth time of asking over this distance on March 2nd when making all. He come sup in class here and has the challenge of the outside gate, but he looks to have more progress in him, and he has a chance here. (4) ACRO MARINE was a winner two starts back at 1300M before running 2nd over that same trip on his first try at this level on February 24th. He comes up 2.5kg in the weights as well as coming up slightly in trip but he should be equal to both challenges. (1) STORM GUY will need a line drawn through his latest when favourite at class and distance on February 24th bit fading badly late. His previous form was good though and Moon Se-young stays loyal so we shall too. (5) HANGANG GLORY and (10) MUJANG among other placing hopes.

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

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. It is the last daytime Saturday meeting until late April as for the next four weeks, Saturday (as well as Fridays) will run on an afternoon and evening schedule. Here are the previews:

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

Maidens in the opener and there’s not much reason to go past (1) BREEDO THUNDER. After a decent trial, she ran a close 2nd on debut over 1200M on December 30th, settling handy and running on pleasingly. She has had twelve weeks off since then so comes in fresh and won’t need to improve much to win this. The one concern would be (6) SOFT POWER. She was an improved 3rd at start number two on February 17th coming from off the pace over 1200M. Her times haven’t been quick but the step up in trip may well suit. (7) AMAZING STAR debuted in that February 17th race and ran a fair 4th. She is the only one in this field to have shown anything resembling gate speed so should get an easy lead. The three first timers don’t make for much appeal so (3) ECO FORE and (9) SEGWANG JILJU are others who may improve.

Selections(1) Breedo Thunder (6) Soft Power (7) Amazing Star (3) Eco Fore
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

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

Fillies only in this maiden and this time we will go with a debut-maker. (3) UASEN trialled up competently at the end of last month, showing handily and running through the line well. She draws nicely and if she brings that form to the races, she can win first-up. (5) ROYAL PLUS has improved across three starts so far most recently when 3rd at this distance on February 3rd. She should be on pace here and can be in it a long way. (2) MODERN DANCE was slow away on debut on Christmas Day but ran on well for 4th place over this distance. She finally comes back for another go here and from a good gate and with a better start, she can go close.  (11) YEONGWON POTEN and (7) BIG BRIDGE the other placing chances.

Selections(3) Uasen (5) Royal Plus (2) Modern Dance (11) Yeongwon Poten
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

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

Not a very strong maiden. (8) SUNSHINE QUEEN will be favourite, based purely on her last start when she was a much-improved 2nd over this distance having done nothing in her first three runs. She raced handy and ran on well and won’t need to be much better to win this. (6) YEJIMONG comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes over 1300M. She settles back and works home well and should be in the mix again in this limited company. (3) TOJONG GLORY has the fastest time among these for the distance, recorded when 3rd two starts back. She can leave herself too much to do but can be threat at the business end of the race again. (7) ANYANG TSUNAMI and (11) NONSTOP YEOLCHA other placing hopes.

Selections(8) Sunshine Queen (6) Yejimong (3) Tojong Glory (7) Anyang Tsunami
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

With a 3rd and then a very close 2nd in two starts so far, both at this distance, and both times coming from off the pace and finishing strongly, (9) STUNNING FLATTER will be hot favourite to make the breakthrough here. The widest gate shouldn’t be a problem and the step up in trip should suit. (5) CRAZE CHANG comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at 1300M and at this distance. He can get a bit far back, but he should be a danger late on. (2) BAEKRYONG mixes his form but has a 2nd and a 3rd among his most recent three outings and from a good draw he can be on pace and be in the finish. (6) DAEMUL SOCKS and (7) YONGBISU are other placing candidates.

Selections(9) Stunning Flatter (5) Craze Chang (2) Baekryong (6) Daemul Socks
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 8

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

(3) BEOLGYO VERITAS was a winner on debut in December and has since run 4th and 2nd in two starts at this level, most recently when almost leading the whole way around over 1300M. He likes to be on pace, so he draws well, and he will be a short price to go one better this time. The main danger is in the adjoining gate. (2) CHEONGRYANGSAN is yet to win but has finished no worse than 4th in five starts. Most recently he dead heated for 2nd at this class and distance on February 25th when settling midfield and running on and he can go close again. The horse he dead heated with that day was none other than (7) NAOL DAEWANG. He too is yet to win but has proven competitive at this level and should be in the finish again. (8) AUSTIN LEADER and (4) HANGGU STAR are among plenty of others who can have placing aspirations.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 22)

Friday’s racing is at Busan with 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Fillies only in this maiden with four racing for the first time but it’s hard to look past (5) HAEUNDAE SUNSHINE. After a green debut last August, she didn’t race again until December and has since posted a 3rd and a 4th in two starts at 1200M and 1300M. She’ll be on pace in this company, and she should have too much. (10) DAESUNG DOLPUNG has made progress over three starts to date, most recently when 4th at this distance on March 1st when settling behind the speed and running on. Similar to Haeundae Sunshine, in this race she can be expected to be further forward and can go close. The form falls off after those two but (8) RUN TO QUEEN should have come on for her debut on February 25th when on the speed but weakening. She previously trialled well and can stick around a bit longer this time. Of the debut-makers, (11) JAZZ STAR looks comfortably the best while (2) GOLDEN NICE could be a long shot for improvement. 

Selections(5) Haeundae Sunshine (10) Daesung Dolpung (8) Run To Queen (11) Jazz Star
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 10

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

Two standouts here. (8) CHEONHA SARANG scored a 3rd and a 2nd in his first two outings at 1200M and 1400M before running a fair 5th when stepped up to a mile on February 23rd. He likes to race on pace, the drop back in trip should suit, and while any top-three finish will see him in class 5 next time, he can exit the basement level with a win. The danger is (4) GWANGYAEUIHAMSUNG, and not just for tongue-tied race-callers. He has come close over his five starts, with his best being a 3rd place at 1300M in December. There isn’t much early speed in this race so he can be on pace or handy and Choi Si-dae climbing up is a plus. It’s hard to go past those two, but (2) DAESEUNGNIJA has a pair of 3rd places on her record so long as she is a bit better away than she was last time, can be a threat. (3) STAR PARK and (9) BLAZING MAN others to consider.

Selections(8) Cheonha Sarang (4) Gwangyaeuihamsung (2) Daeseungnija (3) Star Park
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start4, 8, 9, 12

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

Not a strong maiden here. (5) BLISS MARINE improved to 3rd place at start number two over 1400M on February 2nd when on pace throughout. She gets a much better draw here and third-up can be peaking fitness-wise. She will contest favourite status with (12) NONSTOP DUTY. She has no fewer than five top-four finishes from six starts so far and while she is yet to finish in the top two, she has posted solid times and should be a threat here. (4) POMPEII was a fair 5th on debut behind Bliss Marine on February 2nd, racing handy before running out of energy late on. He should have come on for that run and can get closer here. (10) GWANGSOKMA and (11) TODAY QUEEN among others with placing chances.

Selections(5) Bliss Marine (12) Nonstop Duty (4) Pompeii (10) Gwangsokma
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start3, 7, 10, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million 

(2) OVER THE TRIPLE got his maiden win at start number two over 1400M in January before running a close 2nd on his first try at this class on February 16th. He comes up to the mile for the first time but there is no reason why it can’t suit, and he will be a warm favourite to score again. (11) WONDERFUL KAYLAN comes in off back-to-back runner-up finishes at 1400M – behind Over The Triple – and then at a mile. That brings her up in class here, but she comes down in the weights and she should be competitive. (6) SUPER CRACK and (4) TOP FRIEND come in having finished 4th and 5th respectively when racing one another over 1800M on March 1st and both can be competing here. (8) HAMA another in the frame.

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Herald Business Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 17)

The Stayer Series gets underway at Seoul on Sunday afternoon with last year’s Korean Derby winner Global Hit set to be sent off as the favourite for the Group 3 test over 2000M. We’ll have a full preview of the big race here soon. In the meantime, here are all the previews for Sunday at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:25 to 16:05):

Global Hit won last year’s Derby (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (1) PINK WIND will be the warm favourite. She has made steady progress across four starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on January 27th when settling midfield and running on. She draws nicely here, the slight raise in trip can suit, and she can win. The main danger is (4) JERAQUEEN. She too has raced four times with her best being a 3rd place in a similar race to this last October. She races for the first time since a front-running 4th at the end of December and should be on pace here and in the mix for a long way. (3) TAP DIA was an improved 2nd at start number two on February 4th. It wasn’t a quick race but with some more natural improvement here, she can go close. (7) GEUMSEONG REVERE and (5) CLAIR GOLD among other placing chances.

Selections(1) Pink Wind (4) Jeraqueen (3) Tap Dia (7) Geumseong Revere
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 8

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

Not the strongest of maidens. (1) MO CHUISLE is the only one of these to have a top-three finish on her resume, which she did at start number three last September. She then didn’t race again until February 24th when she was on pace before weakening back through the field. She should strip fitter here and from the inside gate, must have a chance. (9) DANGCHAN NANGBO was a much-improved 4th at start number ten on March 3rd when settling midfield and finishing well. Moon Se-young climbing on today means she probably starts as the betting favourite. (7) BLUE RACER has recorded the fastest time among these for the distance and that’s enough for him to go in the numbers. (3) STUNNING QUEEN and (5) BUGANGJILJU, the latter a well beaten favourite on debut who previously trialled well, others who could improve.

Selections(1) Mo Chuisle (9) Dangchan Nangbo (7) Blue Racer (3) Stunning Queen
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

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

Franco Da Silva had a very solid book of rides – and plenty of winners – on Friday, and he continues here on probably hot-favourite (5) EUNSEONG CHAMPION. He has shown steady improvement across his six starts and most recently beat a couple of these on his way to 2nd place when stepped up to this trip on February 16th. He’ll race on pace and won’t need to be much better to win this. (6) LOLLY is the logical second choice. She was well back behind Eunseong Champion on that February 16th race but at the start before she ran 2nd over this distance so she warrants another chance. (2) AMZAING CURLIN beat a couple of these when an improved 4th at this distance on March 3rd and comes into a better gate in this small field. (3) SEOBU CAPTAIN and (7) BLUE POINT others who could dispute the minors.

Selections(5) Eunseong Champion (6) Lolly (2) Amazing Curlin (3) Seobu Captain
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

After running a fair 5th on debut, (1) DRAGON BULPAE beat four of these in a similar race to this over 1400M on February 25th when overcoming gate ten to get on pace. He draws much better here and will be a short price to come out on top this time. (5) SARANG WANGJA also overcame a wide draw in that race to come home strongly and finish in 4th. The followed a 3rd place on debut at this distance in a decent time and he shapes as the main danger here. (2) SOUL BEAT was 6th in the same race, showing on pace before dropping back and then running on. That was his debut having previously won a trial and he should have derived benefit from the experience. (4) DREAM RIDGE and (3) BONGHWA STAY, the latter a trial winner last month, are others to consider for the minors.

Selections(1) Dragon Bulpae (5) Sarang Wangja (2) Soul Beat (4) Dream Ridge
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

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

Another short price favourite here and it’s Franco again. This time he is on (8) MONSTER DRAGON, who was a winner on debut over 1200M in January before following up with a smart 3rd place when stepped up to this class and distance on February 16th when he was on pace and beat a couple of these in the process. The Shackleford colt can lead again and this time they may not get past. (1) SEOGWI CHUKJE is yet to win in twenty-two starts but she has no fewer than nine top-three finishes. That includes her latest at class and distance on February 23rd when coming from well off the pace. She will probably find at least one too quick here, but this is the kind of race she places in. (11) BIG WILD remains a maiden but comes up in class here following two 3rd places and a 2nd, the latter being at this distance on February 25th. He comes down 3kg in the weights and his times have been quick enough to be more than competitive at this level. (5) SKY JILJU and (4) CAPTAIN CHARLIE other sin the placing frame.

Selections(8) Monster Dragon (1) Seogwi Chukje (11) Big Wild (5) Sky Jilju
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 12

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

(8) STUNNING SKY remains a maiden, but he has three runner-up finishes from his four starts so far, including his latest which came at this class over 1200M on February 4th, when handy throughout. He comes up 3kg in the weights, but he can settle behind the speed again and the additional half-furlong could be exactly what he needs to see him home on top. (5) CHEONGUCHAT similarly remains winless but comes up in class here following too many near-misses. They include a 2nd place at this latest start over this distance on February 24th and down in the weights here, he can measure up. (6) SUNGANUI CHANCE also comes up in class, in her case having won over this distance on February 18th. She carries a light weight and can be competitive. (7) SSING SSING SSING and (4) MEOTJIN GIROK are others to keep safe.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 16)

Saturday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seo Seung-un is among a number of Busan jockeys in Seoul this weekend (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Challenging opener with four of the eleven racing for the first time. (11) BAZOOKA BOY has raced twice and improved in the second of those to run 2nd over this distance on February 17th, coming from well off the pace. He has to contend with the widest gate but that 1400M experience can stand him in good stead and third-up he can be peaking. (3) APPLE QUEEN ran once last June and put in a decent performance over 1000M. She hasn’t been seen since, but she looked very well when racing on pace in a trial last month and can put in a bold showing first-up here. Moon Se-young partnering a first-time starter is always going to catch the eye, and (8) AMAZING ROCK is no exception. The Indie Band filly went through two trials, improving to win the second, and she should be in this a long way. (1) BEAT YEONGUNG and (2) AWESOME BRAIN are among the other contenders.

Selections(11) Bazooka Boy (3) Apple Queen (8) Amazing Rock (1) Beat Yeongung
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8

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

(4) SHARKTEN has shown steady progress across four starts so far, culminating in a very close runner-up finish over this distance on February 25th when as has been his style, he settled in midfield before finishing off well. He comes in under the same weight and draws the same gate and has every chance of going one better. (7) MIGHTY BOM has a 2nda and a 3rd from his latest two, most recently when tried at this distance for the first time on February 17th. Moon Se-young climbs aboard and he is sure to have plenty of support here. (11) SHADOW HUNTER came from well off the pace run 5th over 1300M at start number two on January 20th. With a better start and with the slight step up in trip, he should be going closer here. (6) SINUI UNMYEONG and (1) E.H. COCO among other placing chances.

Selections(4) Sharkten (7) Mighty Bom (11) Shadow Hunter (6) Sinui Unmyeong
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 11

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

Two standouts here. (10) FLYING KING has made solid progress across five starts so far with his latest being his best when 2nd over 1500M on February 18th having led almost the entire way around. The draw here is not ideal but with a bit of luck he can be on pace again and this time can go one better. (7) SOLAIRE has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from his latest three, coming from off the pace each time. He has the fastest final furlong average time among these, and shapes as the main danger. (8) INFINITE HONOR was an improved 5th at start number two over this distance on January 28th. He is another who likes to race on pace and can continue to get closer here. (11) SEOUL DOLPUNG and (2) MARUBYEOL are among others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(10) Flying King (7) Solaire (8) Infinite Honor (11) Seoul Dolpung
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) WONDERFUL WELLS was beaten into 2nd place when favourite over 1400M on January 13th, settling midfield and running on but not quite being able to get there. She comes up to two turns for the first time, she draws nicely, and today can be her day. (8) NEXTLEVEL was 3rd in that January 13th race and has since raced twice more, beating a couple of these over 1400M on her latest on February 25th. She does have experience of two-turn racing and she has every chance of going close here, probably from on the pace. (11) BLOOD MOUNTAIN looks to have the right profile for the step up in trip, having been doing his best work late in his races. He can run into some money here. (9) QUEEN ABIGAIL and (10) EVER THE CROWN are other minor money hopes.

Selections(1) Wonderful Wells (8) Nextlevel (11) Blood Mountain (9) Queen Abigail
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

(8) MR. TROT ran out a narrow all the way winner on debut over 1200M on February 18th. He comes up in class here as well as in trip, but he is down in the weights and has every chance of maintaining his 100% record. The main danger is (1) HANGANG POWER. He enters after a smart 2nd place at this class and distance on February 17th when settling just behind the speed and running on well. He comes into a much better gate this time and can be close once more. (10) YONGBI POWER took a couple of tries to get accustomed to this level but enters off a solid 3rd and 2nd from her latest two. She is versatile as well as they were over 1200M and 1700M, and she should be handy to the speed and in this a long way. The up in class (9) SUNNY ROAD, along with (6) THEME TANSAENG are others who can be considered.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 15)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Franco Da Silva looks set to be the jockey to follow at Busan on Friday: (Pic: KRA)

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

Wide open maiden to start, with four of the twelve racing for the first time. Debut-maker (8) KING DRAGON looks to have as good a chance as any. He won a trial all the way back in June last year but didn’t make it to the races. He trialled again, fairly, in January and this is a good race to start in. Of those with prior experience, (5) TOP LINE is the pick. Fater a positive trial, he ran 5th of eleven on debut over this distance on January 14th, showing on pace. He should have come on for that run and can get closer this time. (1) MAJESTIC DANCER has raced five times with a pair of 3rd places at this distance and at 1300M His latest couple over 1400M have been indifferent, but he comes back in trip here and draws well. (2) STORM GRIT and (7) GIANT MARINE others who can improve.

Selections(8) King Dragon (5) Top Line (1) Majestic Dancer (2) Storm Grit
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 11

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

(4) GRAY BOSS is the one to beat there. He has been a model of consistency across six starts so far, always finishing between 3rd and 5th. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and today really should be his day. (10) DREAM WAY is the only other one in the field to have a top-three finish to his name and that’s enough to put him into contention here. He goes best when on pace and despite the wide draw, in this company, he should be able to get a forward position and he can be in this a long way. (5) TAP BOLT is yet to finish in the top-three in fifteen starts but has had a few near-misses and with an apprentice claim, he can get close this time. (3) CHOEGANG CHONGAL and (8) POSTMAN others who could improve.

Selections(4) Gray Boss (10) Dream Way (5) Tap Bolt (3) Choegang Chongal
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

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

(2) WIN WIN will need a line drawn through his latest. Instead, we’ll go on his effort two starts back on February 22nd when he settled midfield and then ran on strongly for 3rd place, again over this distance. He draws nicely here and is the one to beat. (9) RAON STROKE is another who needs her latest effort disregarded when slow away over 1200M. She has tended to do that but two starts back she overcame gate eleven to run on for 2nd place over this distance and with Tanaka climbing on, she can go close here. (10) BORAM enters off back-to-back 4th place finishes in all-filly races over this distance. She should be settling handy here and can run into some money again. (7) GREAT BOY and (4) STORMY DAY are the other place chances.

Selections(2) Win Win (9) Raon Stroke (10) Boram (7) Great Boy
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 10, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Small but competitive field. Several of these raced one another over 1200M on February 23rd. (6) WOLFS KING MAN was sent off as the favourite that day but put in a somewhat lacklustre run, laying inward and generally not performing. Prior to that he registered a runner-up finish on debut, beating a few of these in the process and is that effort, together with the step up in trip, that leads us to give him another chance here. (2) CRAZY ARMY debuted at this distance on February 18th, beginning slowly but growing into the race and finishing off well for a close 3rd in a decent time. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can be a danger here. (4) AKARAKA and (7) CHOWOLUI BANSEOK both beat Wolf’s King Man in that February 23rd race and can get close again. (9) CONNECT MARINE another in the hunt.

Selections(6) Wolfs King Man (2) Crazy Army (4) Akaraka (7) Chowolui Banseok
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

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Sprint Series Opening Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (March 10)

Spring is starting. The football season got underway last weekend and the baseball pre-season this weekend. It’s not long until the cherry blossoms come out but what really marks Spring being firmly on the agenda is the start of the Sprint Series and it duly kicks off with the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) on Sunday afternoon. Eoma Eoma headlines the big race which is race 5 on a 6-race Sunday card at Busan which runs from 11:25 to 16:05. There are also 11 Sunday races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Eoma Eome didn’t win this race last year when Raon Teh Fighter was around, but does have a good record on the South Coast with two Kookje Shinmun Trophy wins (Pic: KRA)

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

(7) STAR CHANGER is the one to beat in the opener. She comes in having run 3rd in both her latest two, both over this distance and most recently in a quick time on February 18th when close to the pace throughout. She’ll be on the speed again here and will take some beating. (2) BUNDANG TSUNAMI has actually recorded a just as quick time for the distance as Star Changer. That came when running 4th back last October. We need to draw a line through his latest when he had a hard time from a wide gate, and from a much better draw, he shapes as the main danger. (9) JEONGSEONG VICE will also need a line drawn through his latest, but he is the only one in the field to have a runner-up finish to his name and that’s enough to put him in the numbers here. First time starter (1) BLACK SIDAE along with (6) ALL EYES ON ME are others to consider.

Selections(7) Star Changer (2) Bundang Tsunami (9) Jeongseong Vice (1) Black Sidae
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 9

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

(3) YEONGGWANGUI WORLD got his maiden win at start number three on February 4th when making all over this distance. He comes up in class but is slightly down in the weights, he draws nicely, and he can win again. (9) LONDON VICTORY has near identical form, winning at the third time of asking having made progress from his debut. In his case, his victory came on January 21st over 1200M when settling handy and running on and similarly there is no reason why he can’t measure up in this company. (10) SSEULMO is yet to win in ten attempts but has six top-four finishes including a very narrow 2nd at this class over 1200M two starts back. That was followed by a 3rd place at this distance, and he should be there or thereabouts again. (8) HERO JEONSA and (1) KOREA GOLD other placing chances.

Selections(3) Yeonggwangui World (9) London Victory (10) Sseulmo (8) Hero Jeonsa
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 10

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

Fillies only in this maiden and while it isn’t strong that does make for plenty of chances. (12) SEOGWI STAR has hinted at ability across three starts so far and has the fastest time among those who have tackled this distance before. She has the challenge of the widest gate but with a bit of luck at the start, she can find a forward position and she can win. (4) SAVAGE GIRL has shown steady progress over her latest few including back-to-back 4th places in her most recent appearances. She can be a touch one-paced, but she is nicely drawn to sit prominently in the field and can shake plenty off. (5) RAID HIT has a 5th and a 4th in tow starts so far and while her times haven’t been quick that’s enough to put her in contention here. (7) DIA GRIT and (8) ARA NURI others in the hunt.

Selections(12) Seogwi Star (4) Savage Girl (5) Raid Hit (7) Dia Grit
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 12

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

Fillies and mares only here. (7) GOLDBERG got her maiden win two starts back over 1200M racing handily before getting caught back on her first try at this level on February 3rd, ultimately running on for 5th. She tackles the 1400M for the first time, but given her running style it can suit, and she can spear the field here. The main danger is (5) BEOLGYO CHADOL. She was an emphatic all the way winner over 1200M on December 17th, despite veering badly towards the stand side in the closing stages and getting sent back to trial. She didn’t run on when tried at this class for the first time on January 27th, but evidently has talent and is worth another chance here. (10) MYUNGJINBULLPAI similarly had a very ordinary day at the office on her first try at this class on February 3rd but had shown plenty of ability when winning over 1300M in December and should be closer today. (3) VELVETY and (4) DONGHAENG FIRST others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(7) Goldberg (5) Beolgyo Chadol (10) Myungjunbullpai (3) Velvety
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

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

After an indifferent debut, (3) HUNTER DRAGON stepped quickly up to a mile at start number two on February 23rd and seemed to immediately thrive at it, running an improved 2nd having led for most of the way. He draws nicely here and won’t need to improve much at all to win here.  (5) MOUNTAIN DADDY overcame gate ten to run 3rd over 1300M on February 18th at what was start number four for him. A previous effort at a mile saw him lead before going back through the field in the closing stages but he should be ready for another crack at it with a better gate and Seo Seung-un climbing on. (8) ILNYEOM SINHWA and (4) ILCHUL GOLD came home 5th and 6th respectively when they raced each other at class and distance on February 16th and both should be aiming to get a bit closer this time. (7) DORAON ZETTA another in the hunt for the places.

Selections(3) Hunter Dragon (5) Mountain Dady (8) Ilnyeom Sinhwa (4) Ilchul Gold
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 10

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

(9) BRIGHT HANSEN is two for two having picked up two front-running wins over 1200M to come up rapidly in class. The latest of those was back on December 17th so she comes in off a twelve-week layoff but despite that, and that it was in all-filly company, the manner of the nine-length score suggests that she has to go on top again. (10) STAR TREK was a good winner over 1300M on January 21st when leading all the way. He comes up in class but is down in the weights and should be able to measure up. Another up and comer is (8) CITY KING. He didn’t win at class 5 but comes up following a 3rd and a 2nd place, both at this distance in fair times. He comes down significantly in the weights and should be challenging on the speed here. As for the more experienced ones, (11) TEN BAGGER is rarely far away and Moon Se-young climbing on will tempt plenty. (4) RAON THE CHARLIE another in the frame.

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