Racing Previews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Busan Friday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 31)

It’s daytime racing on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and a short 5-race card at Busan from 12:20 to 16:10. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens here with all but three racing for the first time. Those three all raced well though on their respective debuts and will be at the top of the market. (3) SURE WIN will be hot favourite. Having won a trial in early June, she then ran 2nd on debut on June 25th, racing on-pace throughout and registering a good time. A repeat of that performance will make her very hard to beat. The name does sound like tempting fate though so if you want to take on the favourite, (4) KWAEHYANG is the logical choice. He was also close to the speed on debut on June 25th (in a different race), coming home 4th on a decent time. He should have come on for that and be a danger here. (9) NAVY CHROME was 4th behind Sure Win on debut and can also improve here. As for the first timers, (8) SUN DRAGON ran the fastest time in trials and can be considered while (5) RAON THE COBRA ran 2nd in his trial in a fair time and is sure to get plenty of attention.

Selections(3) Sure Win (4) Kwaehyang (9) Navy Chrome (8) Sun Dragon
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

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

A maiden with ten fillies and one gelding. (4) RAY BOLT comes in off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two, where she has settled just behind the early speed and then run on. She draws well to so similar today and she could have enough about her to win this. (7) GOLD POWER showed enough on debut to put her among the leading contenders here. She led for much of the way around at this distance on June 25th, ultimately finishing 5th but posting a decent time. She should have improved for that run and may even start as favourite. (10) ZELOS has shown signs in his latest two starts of finally figuring things out with a 2nd and 3rd, both at this distance. He has settled back and ran on both times so the wide draw isn’t of concern, and he can maintain his positive run of form. (2) MONEY STONE and (9) ARCH MEMORY others who can place.

Selections(4) Ray Bolt (7) Gold Power (10) Zelos (2) Money Stone
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

(2) GOLDEN HONOR made a good impression on debut on April 9th when he finished 2nd over this distance. It’s taken a while for him to get back to the track, but he looks nicely in here and from a great draw, looks to be the one to beat. (3) PERFECT TIME has the fastest time for this distance among those who have tackled it before. That was recorded when she finished 2nd two starts back on June 5th when she settled back and ran on. Going on that run rather than her latest, she has a chance here. (8) NAEGILUI BYEOL stepped up to this trip on June 26th and ran an improved 3rd. He is another who can sit midfield early and then run on. (6) TRIPLE JOY has hinted at ability across three starts so far and along with (10) PERMISSION TO WIN is another in the frame.

Selections(2) Golden Honor (3) Perfect Time (8) Naegilui Byeol (6) Triple Joy
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 10

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

A maiden with three of the eleven racing for the first time and unusually, we are not going to side with experience this time. That’s due to (3) GEUMA PASSIONATE, who showed enough over the course of two trials to suggest he can win first-up. He led in the latest of those and while Group winner Mr. Afleet did cruise past him in the latter stages, there don’t appear many candidates among this lot to do that. He can lead all the way. If you prefer to stick with experience, (11) BAEDARI GANGHO could be the one. He comes in off a good 2nd place on June 17th when he overcame the widest gate. That suggests that the same wide draw won’t be an issue and he can work home strong again. (8) TEUKGEUP CAMP was a significant improver last start on June 26th when he beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd over this distance. He can match that here. The form drops off a bit after that but (7) SIMPLE KALIX will have backers while (1) LOUD COLOR is another who can improve.

Selections(3) Geuma Passionate (11) Baedari Gangho (8) Teukgeup Camp (7) Simple Kalix
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

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

Competitive race for fillies and mares. (1) HWASUBOON perhaps has the edge. She was a winner at class 6 level over this distance three starts back and while he didn’t go well over 1300M on her first try at this level in March, she was a decent 5th on her latest appearance back over this trip on June 25th. The draw means she may get a soft run to the lead and that could make the difference. (3) MUSTANG CHARM is still a maiden but comes up in class with two runner-up finishes from her latest three. She comes down in the weights and can sit behind the early speed and run on. (10) HIGH RUNNER beat Mustang Charm on her way to victory over this distance at class 6 level in June. She too can measure up in this company and can be considered. (5) GEOLJAK WOMAN and (11) HWANGGEUM CHEONJI both need their latest starts overlooked but otherwise have form that holds up in this company.

Selections(1) Hwasuboon (3) Mustang Charm (10) High Runner (5) Geoljak Woman
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(1) QUEEN ALLIE may be yet to break through, but she comes up in class anyway following two runner-up finishes from three starts. At her latest, she overcame gate eleven to sit midfield and then run on well, albeit well beaten by a good winner. She comes down in weight here, draws a good gate and she can win. (7) TWO OF US comes up in class too, in her case following a maiden win at start number four over 1200M on June 26th.  She is an on-pace galloper who can be expected to lead here and to be in this a long way. (9) BEST WIND enters off two very solid class and distance performances, finishing 2nd to Named in June and then on July 10th, beating a couple of today’s rivals when an on-pace 4th. She remains nicely weighted and surely goes close. (5) SPICE INDIE and (3) JEONGDEUN-RO are others in the hunt.

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

Saturday’s action is at Seoul where there is a lengthy 15-race program running from 2pm to 9pm. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens on the opener with seven of the eleven making their racecourse debuts. We’ll go with experience and (3) GEUMA ALLURE was an in no way disgraced 6th of nine on debut over this trip on June 18th when settling back and running on in a fair time. She comes into a better gate today and that experience can prove valuable. So it can for (10) NEMO PRINCE. He ran 2nd in a trial before finishing in 5th of eight on his debut on June 25th, also settling back and running on. He draws wider here but should be a danger. Of the first-time starters, (2) EFFEL TAP ran 3rd in a trial earlier this month. He raced handy and with not much early speed here, from a good draw he can possibly lead here. (6) BAEDARI GONGJU and (7) GIPPEUM HWANHO other debut-makers who may go close.

Selections(3) Geuma Allure (10) Nemo Prince (2) Effel Tap (6) Baedari Gongju
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

Having run 3rd on debut, (4) HIDDEN BLADE was sent off as favourite for her second start which came at this distance on July 9th. Although she led, she weakened in the closing stages finishing down the pack. She can be given another chance here and with Munro taking the ride and a good draw again, this time she may make no mistake. (1) YONGCHEON JISANG took a couple of goes to figure things out but has a 2nd and a 4th from his latest two, both at this distance. He draws very nicely again to drop in behind the early speed and run on. (7) SHOOTING REVERSE was an improved 2nd on her most recent outing over this distance on June 26th, albeit a fair distance behind a good winner. Her style has been to settle back and come from off the pace and she can be a danger here late on. (5) HWARANG TODAY raced just the once, all the way back in October of last year and showed promise, running 2nd over 1000M. He looked well when trialing on July 8th and can put in a big show first-up here. (10) DUSON DRIVE another in the frame.

Selections(4) Hidden Blade (1) Yongcheon Jisang (7) Shooting Reverse (5) Hwarang Today
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

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

Wide open race. (7) LAST CALL has the fastest time among these at the distance, recorded when 4th last December. He was out for seven months after that, returning with a 5th place over this distance on July 10th. He will have needed that and while he does come up 3kg, can go closer today. (10) K N TIZWON has three top-four finishes among four starts so far. He comes in following his best of 3rd over 1200M on June 11th. An apprentice takes 4kg off his back and he can be a big danger here. (9) STAR CRAZY also benefits from an apprentice claim. He led for much of the way around at his latest start on July 3rd, ultimately running 2nd and while the draw doesn’t favour him this time, he has enough speed to get forward early and be in this a long way. (3) ECHO ZONE and (2) GLOBAL STORM others with placing claims.

Selections(7) Last Call (10) K N Tizwon (9) Star Crazy (3) Echo Zone
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 10

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

(11) KING HONOR comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on July 2nd having raced handily throughout. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and while he draws the car park here, he doesn’t necessarily need to lead and should have enough about him to get the job done here. (8) EUNHYE RECORD comes in off a best finish to date of 2nd, scored over 1300M on June 26th when settling midfield and running on well. He has run fairly at this distance too and looks to be the main danger to the favourite. (3) P N S THE KING has a 2nd place to his name and is another who has shown ability at this distance. He draws well here and can be a threat. (10) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE and (4) HEEMANG WARRIOR among others in the frame.

Selections(11) King Honor (8) Eunhye Record (3) P N S The King (10) Neoreul Eungwonhae
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 11

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

(9) CONCORDE SPURT is the one to beat here. He steps up to this trip for the first time having shown good ability over 1200M including his last start runner-up finish at this class when he settled midfield and ran on. His solitary win was gate to wire so he is tactically versatile and should have too much for this field. (8) NONSTOP WINNING doesn’t exactly do that but he does come in following a good 3rd place at class and distance last time out on June 25th. A similar run will put him in the finish here. (4) BLUE CHARM enters off back-to-back 3rd places at 1700M and 1200M. He’s run fair times at this trip too and shouldn’t be too far away again. (1) NEW SMART is up in class but down in weight and can be competitive (2) MIR POWER, a last start winner over 1300M, also comes up in class and can measure up.

Selections(9) Concorde Spurt (8) Nonstop Winning (4) Blue Charm (1) New Smart
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Wide open race. (4) WORLD KING MAN ran 2nd on debut before winning at start number two, both over 1000M and both times handy throughout. He comes up in class here and out in trip, but both can be overcome, and he has every chance of winning again. (10) A ONE STAR has very similar form coming up in class following victory at his second start over 1000M on June 25th. He settled back and worked through the line well so the step up in trip can suit. (2) CHANGER is another up in class after a maiden win. In his case it was at the sixth time of asking on July 3rd, but it was over this distance. He has plenty of weight to carry but draws well and can be competitive. (6) DOWN THE ZONE and (5) BURUI GASOK are others with solid claims.

Selections(4) World King Man (10) A One Star (2) Changer (6) Down The Zone
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(7) DREAM K won on debut over 1200M back in May before running 2nd to Cosmo on her first try at this class and distance on June 19th. It was a fast time, and a similar run will see her home on top here. (1) GEUMSEONG CROWN comes up in class following a comfortable win over this distance on July 2nd. He draws nicely on the inside and can be competitive at this level. (5) SEMYEONG NARAE has plenty of experience at this level and her recent form reads well, especially her class and distance 2nd place on June 26th. She has consistently run good times at 1300M and will be in the hunt for another place finish here. (10) HOEDURYEONG has the fastest time of any of these over the trip and along with (2) BICHUI DAERYUK is another in the money frame.

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