Racing Previews

KNN Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (July 17)

Korea’s top mare meets the winner of the Filly Triple Crown as Raon First and Golden Power clash for the first time in the KNN Cup (1600M KOR-G3) at Busan on Sunday afternoon. It’s the final race on a 7-race card at Busan which runs from 11:35 to 17:05. At Seoul there are 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Raon First won the Ttukseom Cup and is hot favourite for the KNN Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with seven of the eight making their racecourse debuts. It’s the sole one with experience though who will be the hot favourite. That’s (8) NAOL SNIPER who, following an encouraging trial, was sent off as favourite on debut over this distance on June 18th. Though on pace he had to settle for 4th, but it was a good time, and he won’t need to improve much on that to win this. (4) P N S LOOK was the fastest among the newcomers in trials. She ran a close 2nd in the heat, running on pace throughout and if she brings that form to the races, she can go well first-up. (2) DRAGON STAR beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to winning a June 24th trial. He draws nicely here and can beat them again. (3) HAENGBOKAN MUNMAK also win a trial, overcoming a wide gate to do so and along with (7) HIGH GRAND is another to consider.

Selections(8) Naol Sniper (4) P N S Look (2) Dragon Star (3) Haengbokan Munmak
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(2) GRAY THOR should have too much here. After two fair showings in his first two races, he was a significantly improved runner-u p at the third time of asking over this distance on June 18th when he led almost the entire way around. He carries the same weight; he draws well, and he can go all the way this time. (3) YAMUJIN WANGCHO also comes in following a 2nd place finish at his latest start on June 26th over 1300M. He too was on pace throughout the race and today he draws much better. He can go close again. (5) QUEEN OF RACING is yet to finish in the top-two but nevertheless has six top-five finishes. With an apprentice engaged, she comes down 3kg in the weights today and should be in the finish. (6) GEONGONILCHEOK and (8) CHEONMA CHAT others in the placing hunt.

Selections(2) Gray Thor (3) Yamujin Wangcho (5) Queen Of Racing (6) Geongonilcheok
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

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

Juvenile maidens get things underway on the south coast and six of the seven are racing for the first time. As so often in these kinds of races, we are going to value the experience here of (5) FANTASTIC KINGDOM. Having won a May trial, he ran a good 3rd on debut on June 24th in a good time over this distance, settling in midfield and running on well. He should have come on for that run and can win here. (4) JEOLGEOUNYEOJEONG is the clear pick of the first-time starters. She ran on very well from a handy position to comfortably win her trial in the kind of time that would win plenty of races at this class and distance. If she brings that form to the races, she has every chance.  (7) HWANGU FIGHTER ran 2nd in his trial on a wet track while (2) TAP DREAM and (3) ADELE HORANGI, the latter a trial winner, are other first-timers who could make an impression.

Selections(5) Fantastic Kingdom (4) Jeolgeounyeojeong (7) Hwangu Fighter (2) Tap Dream
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(7) DAPHNE should be winning this. On her return from five months out in May she parted company with her jockey but came back two weeks later on June 11th to run a solid 4th in a good time over this distance. That time was faster than anything else in this race has achieved and with Moon Se-young climbing aboard as well as the limited opposition, it would appear today is the day. (8) SWEET KAKAO needs a line drawn through her latest effort on May 29th but her form leading up to that was adequate enough to suggest she can go well here. She is up in the weights without the benefit of an apprentice claim but should be ridden forward here. (1) CUPID KOREA led over 1300M on his first start in seven months on June 11th. He ultimately weakened but should have benefited for the run and can get closer today. (5) DIVINE FUTURES and (3) GENTLE RULES other placing contenders.

Selections(7) Daphne (8) Sweet Kakao (1) Cupid Korea (5) Divine Futures
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

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

Another race with a hot favourite here. (8) CAPTAIN GOLD won a May trial in fine fashion leading him to be sent off as market-leader on debut on June 3rd. He ran well and on pace but ultimately had to settle for 2nd place over this distance. He should have come on for that run and it would be a surprise were he to be beaten again. (6) ALPHA V is the logical second pick. She returned from five months out to run a good 3rd over 1200M on May 22nd when settling midfield and running on well. She’ll do the same here and will challenge at the business end of the race. (9) GEUMA UNO raced once without distinction last December but looked well when winning a June trial, leading all the way. The trainer/jockey combination will ensure he has backers. There are four first-time starters and the wonderfully named (4) I LOVE HANSEN looked well in trials and along with (2) MIGHTY STORM – who does have experience – looks a potential place chance.

Selections(8) Captain Gold (6) Alpha V (9) Geuma Uno (4) I Love Hansen
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky maiden this. Her last start run over 1200M was slow, but she did manage to finish 2nd and that’s enough to take a chance on (2) THAT’S MY GIRL. She comes back up to a trip at which she has a run a time as quick as any here (albeit not that quick and on a wet track) and from a good draw, she can win. (9) NEW SMART has a time equal to that achieved by That’s My Girl for the distance. She too comes back up in trip after a decent showing around 1200M last time out, in her case on when 3rd on June 19th. She draws wide but should have enough speed to get a good position and she has every chance. (5) P N S THE KING showed un uptick in form when 2nd over 1300M on July 2nd. Prior to that he had a tendency to get a bit too far back in his races so that was encouraging and Song Jae-chul getting the ride will his chances no harm. (7) BITNANEUN JILJU and (8) STAR PRINCESS among others to consider.

Selections(2) That’s My Girl (9) New Smart (5) P N S The King (7) Bitnaneun Jilju
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

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

Several chances here. (5) HWARANG SKY is one of three up in class following a maiden win at their respective latest starts. In her case, it came over this distance on June 19th when she beat Unju Star, who went on to record a win of his own on Friday. It was a fair time, and he can measure up in this company. (4) ANY LINE made all for his maiden win at start number fifteen on June 17th, overcoming gate ten in the process. He has run well at this distance and 1400M in the past and from a good draw can get on the speed and be in this a long way. (3) HOLLYWOOD PARTY similarly led from gate-to-wire to score on June 12th, also at 1200M. She has made good progress over her three outings to date and looks nicely in here. As for those with prior experience at class 5, (1) DOCTOR PRO came from well off the pace to run 3rd at class and distance on June 26th. He draws much better today and should be in this. (2) D’LOVELY QUEEN could compete for the minors.

Selections(5) Hwarang Sky (4) Any Line (3) Hollywood Party (1) Doctor Pro
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

(9) FURIOSA ran out a comfortable winner on debut over 1000M on June 18th having previously won a trial in a similar manner. She comes up in class and in trip here, but the manner of that victory suggests more to come, and she can win again. The main danger looks set to be (11) LAST PUNCH. She has plenty of experience at this level with two placings including her last start 3rd over 1300M. She went back that day and ran on, and similar tactics might be expected here form the wide gate. (6) MYEONGJIN CANDY is up in class after an all the way win over 1200M on June 19th. The same apprentice jockey keeps her weight nice and low, and she can be a danger here again. Disregard the last start from (4) DAEMUL as it was in the Korean Derby. He returns to shallower waters today and can be competitive. (5) CLOUTER among numerous others with genuine placing hopes.

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

The afternoon and evening racing season continues at Seoul on Saturday with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens kick things off with six of the eight racing for the very first time. There are a couple of promising newcomers but experience can often count in these races we’ll side with (1) LUCKY POWER, who ran a decent enough 3rd on debut at this distance on June 18th when handy throughout. He should have benefitted for that, draws nicely on the inside, and can win here. (8) WONPYEONG TOWN ran fairly for 5th on his own debut in a fast race on the same day. He too should have come on for the run and with some natural improvement get closer today. The stand out first-timer is (5) RAON GIANT. The Musket Man filly made all to win her trial and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (6) ULTRA GALAXY and (4) LONDON BISANG others who look promising first-up.

Selections(1) Lucky Power (8) Wonpyeong Town (5) Raon Giant (6) Ultra Galaxy
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

Competitive maiden. (2) MUSTANG CHARM has shown good consistency across her six starts including a good runner-up finish over this distance two starts back. She draws a nice gate here and could get an easy run to the lead. Today can be her day. (4) AL SIMON has hinted at figuring things out across her latest couple and ran a good time when 4th at this distance on June 4th. She can settle behind the early leaders here and she has the fastest final furlong average time of any of these. Apprentice jockey Lee Sang-gyu takes his first race ride here and it is a promising one. (1) TIZ FIGHTING comes in having run a much-improved 2nd over 1300M on June 11th. He comes into a good gate here and Lee takes a full 4kg off his back. (8) TOP POSITION and (9) HANGANG DOLPUNG others in the frame.

Selections(2) Mustang Charm (4) Al Simon (1) Tiz Fighting (8) Top Position
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

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

(3) MARUMA comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at this distance and both in good times. He was on the pace in those races and from a good draw, he should be able to get to the lead and this time can win. (4) DONGBANGUI HON has been knocking on the door in his latest few outings with a pair of 3rds and a pair of 4ths. At his last start he beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over this distance and he should be in the mix again. (2) CLAIR POWER got a long way back in his first two races, before running on well late. On his third appearance on July 3rd, he settled closer, albeit in a smaller field, and he ran an improved 2nd. He’ll be a danger here. (1) HANEUL A has steadily improved over her four starts and along with (8) GLOBAL PRIME, is another to enter the calculations.

Selections(3) Maruma (4) Dongbangui Hon (2) Clair Power (1) Haneul A
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Wide open race with plenty having credible winning claims. We’ll give the nod to (7) WONDERFUL SAM based on her last start 2nd at class and distance on May 22nd when she settled midfield and then ran on strongly. That was in restricted filly company but a similar run will put her firmly in the mix here. (4) SAINT LUCCA got his win at this distance when ridden on pace. He has mixed his form in three outings since but ran a good 3rd, again over this trip, on June 12th and if he can be ridden forward from a good gate today, he can go close. (2) SILVER STAR has outperformed her odds in her latest two running 4th and 3rd, both at this distance. She was beaten by Wonderful Sam last time out but can be competitive here. (11) NUBIGO and (8) THE FIGHTING among others to consider in a race of many chances.

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

The summer racing season continues on this weekend and the action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

A maiden to kick things off and it’s wide open. (3) UNJU STAR has as good a chance as any following a decent 2nd place at this distance on June 19th when close to the pace throughout. That’s not the first time he has hinted at having some ability and he also has the fastest time among these at the distance. (2) PURE MAGIC has a 5th and a 2nd from two starts so far. He draws nicely and will be expected to lead here and be in the mix a long way. (10) TRIPLE THUNDER has mixed his form a little across five starts so far and we’ll draw a line through his latest and instead go on his good 2nd at this distance in May. He has a strong finish so the wide draw may not be too inconvenient. (11) LET IT GO and (9) POLE TO WIN are among others who can be competitive.

Selections(3) Unju Star (2) Pure Magic (10) Triple Thunder (11) Let It Go
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 11

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

Another competitive maiden. (4) MILK DAY has put in some consistent performances recently and looks to be working up towards a win. He likes to sit back in his races and then run on and he shapes as the one to beat here. (11) BOUNTY HUNTER came very close to getting his maiden win on his latest start on July 1st when leading for a long time only to get overhauled on the line. That gives him another crack at this level and under a relatively light weight again, he looks a place chance. (7) S. L. KING has actually won a race but because it was back when racing was being run for vastly reduced prize money, he is still at class 6. That win was over a mile all the way back in April of 2021 and he hasn’t raced since. He looked very well in a trial in June and in this company can go well first-up. (8) SORI TAEPUNG and (3) AGAIN HELEN others in the frame.

Selections(4) Milk Day (11) Bounty Hunter (7) S. L. King (8) Sori Taepung
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

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

Having secured his maiden win over 1000M last October, (3) JEONGMUN DRAGON was out of action until June 17th. He returned very handily though, with a front-running 2nd over this distance. He comes up in the weights today but should have come on for that run and from a good draw can be on pace and is very much the one to beat. (5) GLOBAL CHOEGO comes back in trip following recent good work at further. He got his maiden win three starts back over 1300M before finishing 4th and 3rd in two goes at 1400M. He has a runner-up finish to his name at this distance too and he looks to be the main danger. (1) JUMAL BOBAE has only missed the top three on one of six starts so far. That was his latest at 1300M but he comes in here after three months out and from a good draw can go close. (6) UNJU OCEAN and (8) BABEL PHOENIX are other placing chances.

Selections(3) Jeongmun Dragon (5) Global Choego (1) Jumal Bobae (6) Unju Ocean
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

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

(3) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG comes in having won his latest two in good fashion, the most recent at this class and distance on June 17th. He comes up significantly in the weights here although that is balanced a little by a good draw and he has every chance of making it three in a row. Also looking for three in a row is (10) HAENGBOKAN HAMAN. She is up rapidly in class after consecutive victories over 1300M. She carries a light weight and can measure up at this level. (6) BEASTLY is two starts into a comeback following almost a year on the sidelines. Those two outings have yielded a 4th and a 3rd, the latter at this distance and he could well be peaking today. (5) NAMED is up in class after a good win over 1300M on June 12th. He carries a light weight and draws well and should be competitive. (2) SEOGWI POINT among others to consider.

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Ilgan Sports Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 10)

The Listed Ilgan Sports Trophy is the feature race on a day where there are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Last year’s Gyeonggi Governor’s Cup winner Eodigana is among those in the Ilgan Sports Trophy (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Tricky maiden to open with. Without too much confidence, we’ll side with (5) LONDON MYEONGGA. He has hinted at figuring out what to do in his latest two, running 5th both times over 1300M and 1200M. Moon Se-young getting booked today may suggest this is his time. (1) PERFECT TIME was a significantly improved 2nd when stepped up to this trip on June 5th. She settled back and ran on well in a fair time that time and won’t need to improve much to go very close here. (7) GLOBAL STORM ran a solid 3rd at this distance on June 11th and from a similar gate and against similar calibre opposition can be competitive again. (6) RESERVED JOHN and (3) LAST CALL others to consider.

Selections(5) London Myeongga (1) Perfect Time (7) Global Storm (6) Reserved John
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Competitive race featuring six fillies and one gelding. (2) BAEKDU MIIN ran out a very pleasing gate to wire winner over this distance on debut on May 28th, overcoming a wide draw to lead. She comes up in class here but is down in weights and comes into a better gate with solid claims of maintaining her 100% record. The primary danger is (4) OLD START who comes back in trip having led for much of the way around 1400M at his latest outing on May 14th. He has run good times at this distance and will be expected to be on the lead again here. (3) NANA LAND too is another who has put in some decent times at the distance and while she can get a bit far back in her races, should be competitive here. (5) GO GO STAR beat Nana Land when they faced one another on June 11th. That was an uptick on recent form, but she shouldn’t be ruled out. (7) HAPPY NEWMA comes up in class off a slightly unexpected all the way win over this distance back in April and may measure up.

Selections(2) Baekdu Miin (4) Old Start (3) Nana Land (5) Go Go Star
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

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

Seven juveniles make their racecourse debuts here so it’s to the trial videos that we head. We find that (6) GOLD ROSE was the most convincing in her heat, making all to cross the line well ahead of the rest in a fair time over the 1000M. If she brings that form to the races, she will be hard to beat. (5) BUILD UP ran 2nd in his trial but it was in a time almost as fast as that of Gold Rose. He settled back and ran on and is set for a bold showing first-up. (7) I’M KING IJI made all to win his heat. The time was touch slower than some of today’s rivals but nevertheless, he di what he needed to do and should have come on for the experience. (3) PISTOL STAR posted the quickest time of any of them in trials. It was a fast heat on a wet track but should stand him in good stead here. (1) THUNDER CROWN didn’t disgrace himself either and draws nicely on debut.

Selections(6) Gold Rose (5) Build Up (7) I’m King Iji (3) Pistol Star
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

Three main ones in the frame here but his last start 2nd at class and distance is enough to tip the balance toward (3) NAMSAN CHOCOLATE. She does come up in the weights by 2kg from that day when she settled behind the lead and ran on behind a good winner, but that’s balanced a little by a better gate and today can be here day. (7) TIZ SUCCESS comes up in class following a 2nd place on debut followed by a win, both at today’s distance. She has raced handy to the lead both times and while this is harder, she is lightly weighted and can measure up in this company. (8) BLUE CHARM is yet to win in fifteen starts but has been consistently close. He comes back in trip and should be a danger here running on. (1) M J TIME and (5) GOLDEN SCOOP, who has won a trial since her latest outing, are others to consider.

Selections(3) Namsan Chocolate (7) Tiz Success (8) Blue Charm (1) M J Time
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

After an indifferent debut, (6) HANEUL JILJU has, over three subsequent outings, looks very much as though she is working towards a maiden win with a 4th, 3rd and a 2nd. She has led in all those races, will surely do so again here, and this time she should come out on top. It took (1) PHANTOM QUEEN a little bit longer to show that she is figuring things out but her form in her latest two certainly reads well with a 4th and a 3rd. She doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim today but that’s countered by having Seo Seung-un climb aboard and she should be running on late. (5) SIMON TOP GUN has mixed her form across her thirteen starts so far. She is yet to finish in the top-three but has plenty of minor money finishes and in this company can be looking for a best result to date. (2) DOCTOR PERSIA and (4) BOOMY STAR others who may be competitive.

Selections(6) Haneul Jilju (1) Phantom Queen (5) Simon Top Gun (2) Doctor Persia
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 8)

The second weekend of the night racing season kicks off on Sunday with a 7-race program at Busan from 15:35 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maidens to open proceedings. (3) CHOEGANG FORCE was a touch disappointing last time out on June 3rd when he took a bump at the start and was always at a disadvantage from there on although the margin of defeat wasn’t huge on the line. Before that he had been consistent and while he has tended to get to far back in his races, he runs on well and today can be his day. (2) THE PRINCESS enters off three consecutive 4th place finishes. She doesn’t have an apprentice claim today but gets Franco Da Silva aboard and from a good draw, should be looking for her best finish to date. (7) DOCTOR PENTAGON has hinted at figuring things out with a last start 3rd over 1200M on June 17th. He steps up to this trip for the first time and it may well suit. (9) GLOBAL CATCHER and (5) GRAPHENE KING others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Choegang Force (2) The Princess (7) Doctor Pentagon (9) Global Catcher
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 10

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

The second division of the maiden in a competitive race with two standouts. We’ll side with (1) MY SONG, who comes in having run 2nd and 4th in her latest two, both at 1300M. Park Jae-i takes the ride today, she draws well and the additional half furlong can be to her benefit. The main danger is (7) ZET CASH. He has experience of this distance already including a runner-up finish at it on his latest appearance on May 20th. His times haven’t been fast but he likes to settle back and run on and he will surely be in the finish here. (8) NAREUCAT is another who goes back and runs on. She has a 3rd place to her name at this distance and that’s enough to bring her into the calculations. (3) GOLDEN POINT improved at start number three and can build on that here while (9) YEONSEUNG GLORY is another in the placing frame.

Selections(1) My Song (7) Zet Cash (8) Nareucat (3) Golden Point
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A small field tackles the two-turns. It’s hard to go too far past (3) HERO MAN. Two starts back on June 10th he ran 2nd at class and distance when handy throughout and then beat a couple of today’s rivals when 5th at a mile on June 24th. Though this will be his fifth start in eight weeks, an apprentice claim brings him down significantly in the weights today and he he’ll be the one they need to beat. (1) MY PAL got his maiden win two starts back on June 3rd over a mile and then ran 6th behind Hero Man on his first go at this class on June 24th. He tries this distance for the first time though his running style suggests it can suit and from a good draw and under a light weight, he can go close. (2) ANNIKA GIRL is yet to win in fourteen attempts but has eight top-five finishes. She too attempts two-turns for the first time and while she may find one or two too quick again, she can be competitive. (4) ADELE SMART and the veteran (5) FINAL FRONT are others to consider.

Selections(3) Hero Man (1) My Pal (2) Annika Girl (4) Adele Smart
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

A winner of five from eleven in total, (7) GALAXY ROAD returned from almost six months out to run a solid 2nd at class and distance on June 5th, racing handy to the lead throughout. He should strip fitter for that run, he only comes up 1kg in the weights and he can win here. (2) GALLANT WARRIOR comes up in class following back-to-back wins over this distance at class 4 level, both from on pace. He comes sown significantly in the weights and can measure up in this company. Also up in class following two consecutive wins is (6) HAPPY WOMAN. Her wins came over a mile and while this is harder, she can be competitive under a light weight. Another up in class but down in weight is (3) ADELE CROWN, following three consecutive runner-up finishes, one over this distance. (5) ECOPIA another who can enter the calculations.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 3)

Sunday’s racing is at both Seoul (10 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (7 races from 11:35 to 17:05). Entry to both racecourses is free across this weekend. Here are the previews:

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

(5) MIGHTY ANN will be the favouite here and she looks hard to go past. She enters off a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two, both times on pace. In this small field she will be expected to lead and should go all the way. (8) DONGTEUJA WAY debuted back in March, finishing back in the pack in a fast race on a wet track at this distance. He had previously shown a bit of speed in a trial and with some natural improvement here, can go closer. Debut-maker (2) DANAEUN ROSE overcame the widest gate in a trial to get to the front and run on to cross the line 3rd. She can join the favourite on the speed here and can produce a bold showing first-up. (1) EAST MAGIC and (4) HWANGOO GANGJA the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Mighty Ann (8) Dongteuja Way (2) Danaeun Rose (1) East Magic
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

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

(2) CHANGER was a beaten favourite on his second start on June 4th when on pace but weakening late on to finish 6th. He had previously run 2nd over this trip on April 23rd so we’ll give him another chance here against limited opposition. (1) RED WARRIOR was well fancied on debut having run well in an April trial. He showed on pace in the May 22nd race at this distance but dropped away in the final furlong. He should have come on from that and can be a different prospect today. (5) WONDERFUL MUSKET raced twice in December 2020 and March 2021 but hasn’t been seen since. She performed well in a trial in mid-June and the jockey booking catches the eye. (7) ANYANG SAJA and (8) GUK HYANG others with placing chances.

Selections(2) Changer (1) Red Warrior (5) Wonderful Musket (7) Anyang Saja
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

Seven previously unraced juveniles get their first taste of racing here so it’s to the trial videos we head. The standout is (1) BETELGEUSE. He looked very assured in his trial crossing the line 4th in a fast time under minimal pressure. He draws nicely to be on pace here and while that trial was back at the end of April, his star can shine bright first-up. (4) ILGANG DAERO was the next best in trials, settling midfield and then running through the line well in 2nd in a good time. (2) CHEONSAUI NORAE too settled back in her heat and ran on pleasingly for 3rd place. She gets a good draw and should be working home strongly again. Stablemate of Betelgeuse (7) ARCTURUS continues the space theme. He didn’t do much wrong when trialling and can go well first-up. (3) WONDERFUL ANDOVER came through the same heat as Ilgang Daero and while further back, wasn’t too far away.

Selections(1) Betelgeuse (4) Ilgang Daero (2) Cheonsaui Norae (7) Arcturus
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

(3) VESPER returned from over a year out to run 2nd over 1200M on May 29th when she went right back at the start but finished powerfully, albeit well beaten by a good winner. She should have come on for the run, comes into a better gate today and can go one better with the slightly additional trip in her favour. The main danger is (4) ACE PLAN. He enters in consistent form with a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from his latest three outings all at this distance and with some good times. He’ll be on pace here and could well go all the way. (2) CAMP SAVER comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at 1200M. She is another one who likes to run on pace, and she draws nicely here. (1) SAEBYEOK BAND and (5) CLAIR POWER are others in the money hunt.

Selections(3) Vesper (4) Ace Plan (2) Camp Saver (1) Saebyeok Band
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

Maiden fillies (and one mare) here with three racing for the first time. One of the newcomers is the top pick in the shape of (3) TOTAL ECLIPSE. She led her trial, ultimately running 2nd in a fast time behind a horse who ran 3rd of eight on his own debut last week. She can put her rivals in the shade here. Having run 2nd on debut, (11) QUEEN ALLIE had a poor day at the office when favourite on her return on May 29th, seemingly becoming unbalanced early in the race and never playing a role. She was sent back to trial after that, and she won a heat on June 11th in fine style and is worth another chance here. (4) CROWD ONE has been consistent if unspectacular across six starts so far. Similar runs to her latest should see her in the finish here. Stablemate of Total Eclipse, (9) KATNISS isn’t very quick, but she did lead at her latest outing on June 3rd, holding on for 3rd. She comes in under a light weight and a repeat can’t be ruled out. (5) POCKET POWER has been through loads of trials and finally makes it to the races with a chance first-up.

Selections(3) Total Eclipse (11) Queen Allie (4) Crowd One (9) Katniss
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

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

A weak maiden here. (2) MIR POWER probably warrants favourite status based on her 3rd place two starts back over 1200M. She only beat a couple home on her next outing on June 19th but while she comes up in the weights, Moon Se-young gets the leg up today and she has as good a chance as any. (1) STAR CRAZY has shown his best form in trials, but he draws a good gate here and the apprentice keeps his carried weight low. He should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (3) GEUMA WITTY comes up in trip following a couple of creditable performances at 1200M. She has been one-paced but that may be enough to see her into some money here. (5) DEVIL K only beat one home on debut but did win a trial and may improve. (7) HEEMANG WARRIOR managed a 3rd place on debut on May 1st and while it was a slow race, that alone is enough to being her into contention in this company.

Selections(2) Mir Power (1) Star Crazy (3) Geuma Witty (5) Devil K
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 2)

The first afternoon/evening meeting of the year at Seoul takes place on Saturday with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Perhaps this night racing season, we shall update our stock photos of night racing.

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

Maiden juveniles over the short course in the opener. Two of the nine have raced before and while experience is usually worth plenty in these types of races, we’ll take a chance on a newcomer. (6) MENI POCKET is the second out of eight-time winner Meni Money to make the track. She went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them earlier this month, responding very nicely when asked and running through the line well. She is a bit on the small side but can win first up. (9) NUT PLAY ran well enough for 4th on debut in a fair time on May 28th, on pace throughout. He should have come on for that run and get closer today. (4) WONPYEONG KILLAR debuted in the same race, finishing in 5th place and with natural improvement, he too can be backed. Returning to the debut-makers, (2) GWANGCHIGI won his trial in good fashion and can lead from a good draw, while (1) GOOD CABO is bound to be backed with Moon Se-young on.

Selections(6) Meni Pocket (9) Nut Play (4) Wonpyeong Killar (2) Gwangchigi
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Maidens here. (4) NAOL ACE will be hot favourite coming in off back-to-back 4th place finishes, most recently over this distance in a time significantly quicker than any of his rivals here have achieved. He comes in fresh following a fourteen-week layoff and he should win. (3) JEONGMUN PAPAGO was an improved 3rd on his latest start on May 29th when settling midfield and running on. He comes into a better gate today and looks a solid placing chance again. (7) WONDERFUL HAWAII has mixed her form across eleven previous outings but does have a 2nd and a 3rd to her name at this distance. A top-three finish will see her up in class and she probably should achieve it. (1) COMPLETE JOY and (8) P N S LIN are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(4) Naol Ace (3) Jeongmun Papago (7) Wonderful Hawaii (1) Complete Joy
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

A small field of maidens and (6) TANGJA is the clear pick following his much-improved 2nd at start number two over this distance back in March. He broke a bit slow that day from a wide gate but was quickly up with the speed and led until the closing stages. He ultimately went down by a nose to Mighty Good who has since won again at class 5 level and while this is his first start since, he should win. (1) VICTORY SAM ran 2nd over 1000M all the way back in June of last year. She didn’t reappear until the end of this May when she led before tiring. She should strip fitter for that run and can go close today. (7) GEUMSEONG CROWN ran 4th on his return from six-months out at the end of May. He too should have come on for that run and looks a placing chance here. (5) TRES VITE and (4) SKY PANGPANG others with minor money hopes.

Selections(6) Tangja (1) Victory Sam (7) Geumseong Crown (5) Tres Vite
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(4) ORAE HAMKKEHAJA was a winner on debut over 1200M, making all, before returning and running 5th on his first try at this class over 1400M on June 4th. He comes up in the weights here and also in distance to two-turns, but he should be able to overcome both and can win. (9) JEONGMUN POKJU comes in having run 3rd on his latest try at this distance on May 22nd when on pace throughout. He too comes up in the weights but Moon Se-young remains aboard and he will be a big danger here. (1) JIGEUMYEOGIE came from well off the pace to run a smart 3rd at class and distance on June 5th. From the inside gate he can be dropped in behind the speed here and then run on strong once more. (6) FLYING ATHENA and (3) THAT’S MY BOY others who can enter the placing calculations.

Selections(4) Orae Hamkkehaja (9) Jeongmun Pokju (1) Jigeimyeogie (6) Flying Athena
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

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

(4) KING HONOR has hinted at ability across three starts so far and finished off well for 4th over 1300M at his latest outing on June 5th. He comes up slightly in trip here, should be on the lead, and can win. (7) EPIPHANY mixes his form but goes well on his day and this small field can suit. He will settle behind the leaders and can run on strong. (6) BANG BANG TTEUNE has tended to get a little bit far back in her races but she has run a decent time at this trip. She is another who may appreciate the smaller field and can experience less traffic problems today. (2) RUNNER MONSTER comes in off his best finish to date, when 3rd over 1300M on June 5th. The same apprentice keeps the weight light and he can go close. (3) BEST BIG BANG another in the hunt.

Selections(4) King Honor (7) Epiphany (6) Bang Bang Tteune (2) Runner Monster
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 1)

The summer racing season begins at Busan on Friday with 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Nights

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

(1) SINUI JEONSA has some decent experience with a 2nd place over this distance on his latest start on June 12th when handy throughout. He also has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and from a better draw today, looks a big chance. There are two fist-time starters and we’re going to take a chance on one of them. (6) DIXIE BAND is a half-sister to multiple stakes winners Beolmaui Kkum and Kkakjaengi as well as prolific race winner Dixie Again. She trialed up fairly enough earlier this month running 3rd in her heat without having too much asked of her. The winner of that trial was an easy winner on debut last week. She’ll sit handy and can run on here. (5) THUNDER CLOUD was a close at hand 5th over 1400M on her last start on June 3rd. She can settle behind the speed here and has a god finish on her. (8) GOLD SWEET and (3) SORI TAEPUNG are others with at least placing chances.

Selections(1) Sinui Jeonsa (6) Dixie Band (5) Thunder Cloud (8) Gold Sweet
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

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

(8) RUNNING WARRIOR gets the nod here. After an indifferent beginning to her career, she appears to have begun figuring things out in her latest two recording a 3rd and a 4th, both over 1300M. Her times have been nothing special but she won’t need to improve much to win this and can be expected to be on pace from the start. (9) STAR MATTA has been well supported in both outings so far, following a strong trial. He has raced adequately and the engagement of an apprentice jockey brings him right down in the weights today. He should go close. (4) NOBLE COWBOY also finally looked like a racehorse when an improved 4th over this distance on June 3rd. He can build on that here and aim to place again. (1) SPECIAL FACT and (5) YEONGCHEON POWER others who can find the money.

Selections(8) Running Warrior (9) Star Matta (4) Noble Cowboy (1) Special Fact
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A small field but a good one with plenty of winning chances. (3) KING GOLIATH has won just once from eleven attempts but has eight top-three finishes, including a 3rd on June 17th at this class and distance when returning from five months off. That was a tough ask first-up and he ran well and should strip fitter as a result. He has a big chance here. (7) WONDERFUL SECRET comes up in class having won at this distance on June 10th when on pace throughout and coming home in a fast time. The set weight conditions don’t do him any favours here but he should be measuring up in this company. (4) CHEONGHO LEADER and (8) YEONGCHEON SOLEMIO came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other at this distance back on May 15th. Both should be competitive here. (1) DUMUSAN will be running on late and while up significantly in the weights, can be a danger.

Selections(3) King Goliath (7) Wonderful Secret (4) Cheongho Leader (8) Yeongcheon Solemio
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

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

(5) HAMAN BONGHWASAN is the one to beat here. She has been consistent over five starts so far with his win being a front-running performance over 1300M. At her latest start at 1200M on May 27th, the sat behind the pace and ran 3rd when favourite but is worth another chance here in slightly softer company. (2) PURPLE MANGO was an all the way winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back and while she was only 5th on her first try at this class on June 10th, she draws much better today and should get closer. (8) CHIEF OFFICER ran 3rd in that same race, an uptick on recent form and can maintain his momentum here. (11) COLOR WIND ran a good 3rd at her latest start. She has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and while the draw is not in her favour, she can be considered. The returning (4) SMARTY DOLPUNG trialed up well.

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Mayor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (June 26)

The Busan Mayor’s Cup has attracted a super field and is the feature race of a big Sunday program in Korea. See here for a full preview of the big race. There are 6 races at Busan from 11:35 to 16:20 as well as 11 at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Ten three-year-old maiden fillies go around in the opener and there are two standouts. (2) GEUMA CHIC was a much-improved runner-up at start number two on June 5th when unlike on debut, she was prominent throughout. She draws nicely again to sit close to the speed and with a bit more natural improvement, she can win. (8) SONGAM ARCHGIRL has improved across three outings to date. Along with Geuma Chic, she is the only one in the field to have previously raced at this distance and she registered a faster time when running 2nd from a wide gate on April 23rd. She comes in fresh after nine weeks off and may start as favourite. (10) GREEN DRAGON has put in two creditable runs in 2nd and 4th so far, both times on pace. The draw isn’t ideal, but she looks a good place chance again. (1) MAGIC MOCCASIN should be on the early speed from the inside gate and can be in this a long way while (9) FLY JENNY has the potential to improve from her debut.

Selections(2) Geuma Chic (8) Songam Archgirl (10) Green Dragon (1) Magic Moccasin
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens although this one is open to the boys as well. It’s hard to look past (5) WORLD CHARM. Having trialled up well, he was 2nd on debut at this distance on May 28th when handy to the lead throughout. The time wasn’t fast, but he wasn’t beaten too far and with some natural improvement here, he should win. (12) DREAM ROSE was sent off as favourite for her debut on back on March 20th, having shown good speed in a trial. He ran 5th having been close to the pace and having had a further three months off since and has every chance of improvement. (7) NB JEONSA comes in off a 3rd and a 4th at this distance in his latest two, having been on pace both times. He’ll be getting forward again and should be going close. (2) ROMA BLADE and (4) SHOOTING REVERSE others with placing chances.

Selections(5) World Charm (12) Dream Rose (7) NB Jeonsa (2) Roma Blade
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings on the south coast. (2) WORLD FOUR A will be a hot favourite to break through at what will be start number three having run 2nd and 3rd in two prior outings. He’s been on the pace both times and from a great draw should lead again and prove hard to catch. (6) TOMYRIS won a trial before drawing the widest gate on debut and getting well back before running on for 6th. She should have come on for that run and from a much better draw today she can get much closer. (9) TWO OF US has been consistent across three starts so far and has registered the fastest time for the distance of any of these when 3rd back in April. She too likes to get forward and while she is drawn a little wide, she should be competitive again. First-time starter (11) TAP DANCER and (12) GEOMBOSEONG are others in the placing frame at least.

Selections(2) World Four A (6) Tomyris (9) Two Of Us (11) Tap Dancer
Next Best12, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

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

(7) EUNHYE RECORD looks the one to beat here. He comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes over this distance and 1400M, last time out beating a couple of today’s rivals. He can sit behind the speed here and use his strong finish to make the breakthrough. (8) ECHO ZONE finished 6th behind Eunhye Record when they met at 1400M on May 28th. He also has a 3rd to his name over 1200M and may appreciate the slight drop in trip and the less unfavourable draw. (11) JAKDUKONG and (9) P N S YARNS came home 3rd and 4th with not much between them when they raced each other at 1200M on May 29th. Both came from off the pace, and both shouldn’t be concerned by the relatively wide gates. (10) ARCH RIVER has the fastest time of these at the distance and is another with potential to improve.

Selections(7) Eunhye Record (8) Echo Zone (11) Jakdukong (9) P N S Yarns
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 12

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

(4) MILK DAY enters in the best form here having finished 4th and 2nd in his latest two, most recently at 1400M on May 29th when from a wide gate, he sat behind the speed and ran on for a close runner-up finish, his best in ten starts so far. In doing so, he registered the fastest time amongst those who have tackled this distance before and from a nice gate, can drop in behind the leaders again and run on. (8) VIEW AMAZING comes in off a much-improved 2nd place at this distance on May 27th, when on pace throughout. He should be on the speed here and can be in this a long way. (6) STAR CATCH has shown good consistency across her most recent outings. Last time out on May 29th at 1300M, she settled back in the pack and ran through the line well for 3rd. She steps up to 1400M for the first time and it may suit. (10) CITY BLADE and (7) AGAIN HELEN are others in at least the placing calculations.

Selections(4) Milk Day (8) View Amazing (6) Star Catch (10) City Blade
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11
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Busan Mayor’s Cup: Race-Of-The-Year (so far) Full Preview

A sensational set of stayers will assemble for the Mayor’s Cup (1800M KOR-G2) at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. The final leg of the Stayer Series has turned into a full-on local trial for the International Korea Cup, which will be run in Seoul on the first Sunday of September, with a who’s who of recent Group race winners in what could be the race of the year so far.

Winner’s Man the 2021 Korean Derby winner is set to be favourite. He is a perfect three for three in 2022, with victories in the first two legs of the series, the Herald Business (2000M KOR-L) and the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Seoul.

In the YTN, Winner’s Man beat Haengbok Wangja, the 2021 Grand Prix Stakes (2300M KOR-G1) victor and the latter returns for another crack at him here. Also in the starting gate will be President’s Cup (2000M KOR-G1) winner Simjangui Godong as well as double Classic winner and runner-up to Winner’s Man in the Derby, Hit Yegam.

YTN Cup 1st and 2nd Winner’s Man and Haengbok Wangja return at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

It’s not just the Group winners. Along with a set of class 1 stalwarts, two exciting up and comers will also present their credentials on the elite stage. Tuhonui Banseok has won his latest two at this distance in fine style which Success Macho is a winner of nine from ten so far. Both will have plenty of backers.  

Then there are the two old Champions. Cheongdam Dokki has won this race before – but then there is little he hasn’t won – back in 2018, but on his only scheduled start so far this year, refused to load. Blue Chipper comes in off a disappointing effort in the Busan Ilbo Sprint despite having won at this distance in January. On their day though, both may still have a race in them.

1. TUHONUI BANSEOK (USA) [Verrazano – Sense Of Beauty (Street Sense)]

O: Lim Byung-ho T: Bart Rice J: Franco Da Silva

8(4/2/1) KRW 166,700,000

Flying through the classes and comes in off a nine-length win at class 2 level over this distance, eased down in a quick time. He is an on-pace galloper so the draw bodes well and while this is a quantum leap up in class, he can be considered.

2. HIT YEGAM (KOR) [Take Charge Indy – Desert Heat (Mr. Prospector)]

O: Kim Joon-hyun T: Bang Dong-suk J: Lim Sung-sil

13(9/3/0) KRW 872,700,000

Won the KRA Cup Mile and Minister’s Cup last year and runner-up in the Derby. Disregard his latest two outings over the sprint journey, although he stuck gamely on last start after leading, he comes back to his preferred distance today and is beautifully drawn.

3. WINNER’S MAN (KOR) [Musket Man – Winner’s Marine (Volponi)]

O: Lee Gyeong-hui T: Choi Ki-hong J: Seo Seung-un

16(11/2/1) KRW 1,109,230,000

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