Racing Previews

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

Saturday’s behind-closed-doors meeting at Seoul has 9 races from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Juveniles here with only one of the eleven having previous racing experience. And unlike a lof these type of races, at least half of those first-timers showed enough in their respective trials to suggest they have the ability to win first-up here. We have to narrow it down though so we’ll go with one of two trial winners (1) ASPEN TAEYANG. He was very well held together in his trial, crossing the line first in an unhurried manner with seemingly plenty to spare. He draws well and the jockey/trainer combination is sure to attract plenty. (11) CHEONJIUI BIT ran 2nd in the same trial and was equally unhurried having led in the early stages. That won’t be so easy from the widest gate but she has potential. (8) JEONGSANG Z registered the fastest trial time. She looked a little ungainly in her heat but ran on strong without the whip. (10) MAGIC JUDE also looked to have lots in hand when 2nd in his trial after leading. (2) RAON THE DASH won his heat although he was asked a few questions, as was (7) GEUMSEONG SPEED. Experience can often count for a lot in these types of races and (4) CHEOLLICHONG did nothing too wrong when 6th on debut at this distance on July 25th. He draws much better today and can have come on for that run.

Selections(1) Aspen Taeyang (11) Cheonjiui Bit (4) Cheollichong (8) Jeongsang Z
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (7) LAPIEO BAN has run just the once, finishing 4th at 1200M on July 18th. She drew the widest but one gate that day and was slowly away before making good ground in the closing stages. She should have come on for that experience and the Strong Mandate filly draws better today with solid claims to break through. (5) WONDERFUL ORANGE has consistently run decent times at this distance and has a 2nd place to her name. She does have a tendency to be slowly away but can run on well and should be in the finish here. (6) LUCKY BALLY showed significant improvement when 4th ahead of Wonderful Orange at her latest start just two weeks ago. She draws better today and can build on that progress. (8) DAESEUNG GAON is another who goes back and runs on. She gets in under a featherweight here and has placing claims. The thirty-three race maiden (1) IRYEO HAYEO is wildly unpredictable but her performance two starts back when 2nd at this distance in fast time means she can’t be overlooked for the minor money.

Selections(7) Lapieo Ban (5) Wonderful Orange (6) Lucky Bally (8) Daeseung Gaon
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(4) STELLA ROAD has finished no worse than 4th in three starts so far and steps up to this distance for the first time looking ready to win. Last time out she came from behind the pace to run 2nd well beaten by a good winner and she draws nicely here to be able to pick her spot. (6) MYEONGPUM HERO looks to be improving following a solid 3rd place over 1200M on July 17th when he was handy throughout and can build on that today while (2) GEUMSEONG MAN debuted in the same race and while very slowly away, once he finally got into top gear, he finished off very nicely and should be improving today. (10) SINDAERO had a poor day at the office last start but has shown ability at this distance and can be given another chance (7) LUCKY SEOKPO has had a real stop-start career but he does have ability and perhaps just needs to get some races under his belt. He returns for the first time since April today and should be leading early and is one of many who if they run to their best, can have a say in the finish.

Selections(4) Stella Road (6) Myeongpum Hero (2) Geumseong Man (10) Sindaero
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

A very competitive race involving no fewer than four last start winners as well as plenty of other capable sorts. (5) RAON THE TIGER was a good winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 2nd at his latest effort at this class over 1200M. He draws well to get to the early lead and he could go all the way. (8) CHEONGDAM TANK got his maiden win at start number nine over 1700M on July 3rd. He has shown ability at this distance as well, is tactically versatile, and has every chance again. (7) SAENAE WIN comes up in class after a gate to wire victory at this distance at class 6 on July 4th. That win had been coming and while the fast time was aided by a wet track, she should be able to measure up in this company. (9) FASHIONED PASSION is a winner at this class and came home a good 3rd behind Raon The Tiger at her latest start. She has a strong finish on her and will be working home late here. (2) CHEONJI POKPUNG was a massive longshot last time out and appeared from absolutely nowhere to run from last to 1st in the home straight on July 17th. He comes up in the weights but warrants more respect here.

Selections(5) Raon The Tiger (8) Cheongdam Tank (7) Saenae Win (9) Fashioned Passion
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

Another very competitive race for the level, this time with three last start winners, although all three are up in class. (5) BULBANGUL didn’t exactly set the world alight when winning at this distance on debut on July 11th. On a wet track, he settled towards the back and then ran on strongly in the home straight to score. He should have improved for that run and while he may need to be a bit handier earlier, he has claims to measure up against this tougher opposition. (6) VICEROY has the fastest time at the distance, recorded on a wet track when he led from gate to wire to win at class 6 level in May. He has since put in two creditable runs at this level and should be in the mix again. (1) WINNER BLUE too has good experience at this level and while he comes up in the weights here, he has placing claims. (8) ICE STAR comes up in class after two wins from his latest three. He seems to be a bit of an all or nothing type as those two victories are his only top five finishes, but he comes in off a light weight and could be involved. (9) CHEONDUNGSEJA another up in class who can be competitive.

Selections(5) Bulbangul (6) Viceroy (1) Winner Blue (8) Ice Star
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Another competitive race. (9) COBRA BALL was a smart winner at this distance two starts back when resuming after five months off and then ran a very good 2nd place at this class beating a couple of these in the progress when he led until the furlong pole. He stays down in the weights here and while the draw isn’t the best, he has won from wider and has solid claims. (10) DALRINEUN BITKKAL came from off the pace to win at class and distance in a fast time on a wet track on July 10th. He came from a wider gate than he has today so the draw should be no problem but he does come up a full 4kg in the weights. He has a real chance. So too does (5) DONGJIN CHOEGANG. A winner of three from five so far, he is up in class having made all over this distance in a good time on July 17th and he should be more than competitive at this level. Plenty of others with placing claims including (2) CHOEGO CAMP from a nice draw, and (11) MONEY CHAMP, a class and distance 4th last time.

Selections(9) Cobra Ball (10) Dalrineun Bitkkal (5) Dongjin Choegang (2) Choego Camp
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 9
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 20)

For the time being racing will continue as scheduled for prize-money only with all betting outlets now closed in Korea due to the latest round of Covid restrictions. That situation is likely to be reviewed in September although few are optimistic about the government allowing reopening this year. With all three tracks back from their summer break, this weekend sees a normal schedule. There is a 6-race card at Busan on Friday from 13:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan in better times

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million

Three-year-olds and one juvenile and a very interesting match-up it is too pitting a couple of promising debut-makers against some experienced horses who look ready to win. We’ll take a chance on the debut-maker (2) DROMUS though. The Dominus filly was imported in-utero last year and wasn’t ready when trialed all the way back last December. She re-appeared in a heat on July 24th and led all the way while held together very nicely, looking to have a good six or seven-lengths up her sleeve. If she brings that form to the races, she can win. (11) GLORY SONG scores well on all indicators. Last start she had the same gate as today and was wide for most of the way around running on well enough for 4th. She can go close today. (1) KING GOLIATH drops back in trip after encouraging runs at 1400M and 1300M. Crucially he finally draws a decent gate as well and he is another with winning chances here. The one juvenile is (8) B. K. HANA and she trialed up pleasingly, leading early and then running on well under urging to finish up alongside some talented experienced racehorses. She too should be in the finish. (3) CARIBBEAN DAY another with placing chances.

Selections(2) Dromus (11) Glory Song (1) King Goliath (8) B. K. Hana
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(4) UNJU SESANG has two runner-up finishes and a 4th from three starts to date. Last time out at this distance on June 5th, she sat handy and ran on well to almost catch the winner, only going down by a nose. A similar run here from a good draw may make her hard to beat. Jockey Park Jae-I is in a bit of a purple patch at the moment and he actually ride Unju Sesang to that 2nd place last time. Today he partners (5) NICE WORLD, who may end up the main rival. She has raced just once, when 4th over 1200M back in April when she overcame gate fourteen to run on well. She looked well when trialing up again just last week and so long as she didn’t leave her race on the track then, she should go well here. (9) SINJIN GANGHO is a hold up horse who while he does leave himself too much to do, has the best finish of any of these and will be coming on strong in the closing stages. (6) BLUE OAK is yet to win in sixteen attempts but her recent form is her best and she finished alongside Sinjin Gangho last time. She has a better draw today and can aim to place. (1) FIRST WIND is the only previous winner in the field and is another with placing hopes.

Selections(4) Unju Sesang (5) Nice World (9) Sinjin Gangho (6) Blue Oak
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) GOLD FOUNTAIN has won his latest three, one at a mile and two at today’s distance, to be rapidly promoted up to this class. He has won from handy and from the back of the field and he comes down significantly in weigh here with every chance of making it four in a row. (9) KINGS LANDING comes in off a very strong 2nd place at class and distance on August 1st when she sat handy and ran on. While she didn’t get close to a good winner, the time she recorded was faster than any of her rivals here have over the distance and is a contender here. So too is (8) BABEL DREAMER. He came from a handy position to get his maiden win at start number six over class and distance on July 16th and while he does come up in the weights, he has every chance of going close again. (4) SUNLIGHT BOY has won at this distance at class 5 level and has been very consistent across three subsequent class and distance. He continues to get in under very light weights and will be competitive again here. (6) B.K. LOOKS was a winner at this class over 1200M last start and has previously run well at this trip too. With an apprentice keeping the weight down, he is another in the frame.

Selections(5) Gold Fountain (9) Kings Landing (8) Babel Dreamer (4) Sunlight Boy
Next Best6, 11
Fast Start2, 6, 11, 12

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

Good little race this and plenty have winning chances. (5) ACE DAY was a very nice class and distance winner on July 17th, making all to score by as many as he pleased. He does come up in the weights today but that is mitigated a little by him drawing a much better gate and he can win again. It’s the opposite case for (11) SECOND WIND who gets a much worse draw than when she won on August 1st but she does come down 3kg. That’s because she is up in class today but while that race was an all-filly affair, he winning time was the same as that of Ace Day and she should measure up here. (9) RAON THE POWER is a winner of three from seven so far and is sure to be a danger. He comes in off a good 2nd at class and distance and is likely to sit on pace or handy today. Also on pace will be (6) DOCTOR FASHION. He drops back in trip after running 3rd over 1400M on July 16th but he is a class and distance winner as recently as May and warrants respect today. (12) BURNING FLY came home 3rd behind Ace Day last time out and while she draws the car park here, shouldn’t be completely ruled out of another place.

Selections(5) Ace Day (11) Second Wind (9) Raon The Power (6) Doctor Fashion
Next Best12, 3
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

(9) RAON THE CAPTAIN steps up in class and in distance following back to back class 6 scores over a mile and 1400M, both times getting to handy positions from wide draws before winning easily. There is no reason why he can’t be competitive here and a hat-trick of wins looks very much on the cards. Having won at a mile at class 6 level, (1) SEUNGNI GLORY was sent off as favourite for his first try at class and distance on July 9th. He ended up coming home 4th – beaten by three of today’s rivals – having sat midfield and then not kicked on perhaps as much as expected. Nevertheless, he should have learned from the experience and can go close again today. (6) ACE JACKPOT was the somewhat unexpected winner of that July 9th race. Unlike in previous recent outings, he got off to a very good start that day and while he does come up in the weights, he warrants a little more respect this time around. (10) CRYSTAL THINKING is up in class following a gritty win over a mile last month and can be competitive too while (11) GEUMA GOOD POINT has solid experience at this class and tries the distance for the first time. He is one of a number with placing claims.

Selections(9) Raon The Captain (1) Seungni Glory (6) Ace Jackpot (10) Crystal Thinking
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start2, 5, 11, 12

Busan Race 6: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Good race to finish and (6) MR. VALOR is a winner of three from his latest four with his last two races both being class and distance victories, both times sitting handy and proving too strong late on. He draws well and what would have been a significant weight increase is mitigated a little by a good apprentice taking the mount. He can complete his hat-trick here. (10) GEUMA STORMING is still relatively unexposed with two wins from three and he steps up in class and in distance after a strong all the way win over a mile on July 31st. The start before he won at this distance and down in the weights today, he has solid claims to complete a hat-trick of his own. (4) POKPUNG EONDEOK came from well off the pace to score in a fast time over a mile at class 4 level last start and is another who can measure up at this class and distance. (9) FREEDOM KNIGHT and (7) FANTASTIC MAN among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(6) Mr. Valor (10) Geuma Storming (4) Pokpung Eondeok (9) Freedom Knight
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start6, 7, 10, 11

Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 15)

Seoul flies solo this Sunday with a behind-closed-doors meeting featuring 15 races from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens kick off Sunday with four of the eight racing for the first time. We will side with experience though and (5) TOP CLASS, who ran 4th on debut at this distance on July 3rd beating a couple of these in the process. He was close to the pace throughout and draws well again to get to the front. (6) BYEOLBIT MARU looks a big danger. Having trialed up well, she debuted on July 10th over 1200M when she was on pace early and ultimately finished 4th. She should have come on for that experience and the drop back in trip could work in her favour. (1) MAPARAM was on pace too on his debut, ultimately ending up in 7th place in the same race as Top Class. He should strip fitter for that experience and can improve today. Among the newcomers, (4) MENI WONDERFUL is the first foal out of Meni Money, a very good racehorse here, He trialed up pleasingly enough. (8) P N S LUCKY also did nothing much wrong in her heat.

Selections(5) Top Class (6) Byeolbit Maru (1) Marapam (4) Meni Wonderful
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million

Three-year-old maidens here. We’ll give (6) CHOEGANG JANGSAN another chance. He never really got going at his last start when well back over 1300M but previously had shown some signs of ability and has posted the best time at this distance. Expect him to be out of the gate and away a bit better today and he should be in the finish. (12) GREAT THUNDER comes in off a solid 2nd place at class and distance last start when settling midfield and running on strong. The draw doesn’t do him any favours here, but he doesn’t need to lead, and he can continue the progress he has made across his three prior outings. (1) GEOSEN GISANG can take advantage of the inside gate to get forward early. She overcame gate ten on debut to run competently enough for a midfield finish over this distance and should have come on for the experience. (7) SISEON JUMA too did nothing wrong with a very similar performance on debut and can build on that here. (3) BOLD AGAIN has hinted at ability without reward in two starts so far and can improve today.

Selections(6) Choegang Jangsan (12) Great Thunder (1) Geosen Gisang (7) Siseon Juma
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 7, 10, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million

Two standouts here. (4) GEOLJAK WOMAN ran on strong from behind to come home in 4th place over this distance at her latest start on July 11th. The time before she showed a good turn of foot over 1000M to record her 2nd runner-up finish. Her style is to settle midfield and run on and with Kim Yong-geun aboard again, she has a real chance. The big danger is (7) BIG RED. He came close to getting his maiden win last time out 2nd over 1300M in a fast time on a wet track. He has the best start among these so expect him to be leading early with every chance of going all the way. (2) GEOSEN POWER comes down in the weights with an apprentice aboard as well as getting a much better barrier than his latest start when 5th at this distance and that brings him into the calculations. He should be challenging for the lead early. (6) SONGAM CAT is the sole previous winner in the race and while that win was unexpected and she has shown no signs of following up, in this company she can aim for minor money. (10) SUPER PARK another with placing chances.

Selections(4) Geoljak Woman (7) Big Red (2) Geosen Power (6) Songam Cat
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Small field of maidens here. (1) JEONGMUN PRINCE is the pick, coming in off a strong 4th at this distance on July 4th in a fast time on what was admittedly a very wet track. He went right back that day before making up good ground late, the same style that saw him to a placing finish over 1400M. Leaving himself too much to do is a concern in this small field he can be ridden further forward, and he has solid chances here. (4) STAR RUSH sat behind the pace at this distance last start before finishing in 5th place. He has three 3rd place finishes to his name as well and he comes back slightly in the weights today with an apprentice up. He will be on pace and has a chance. So too does (7) MAD BLADE, who has finished behind Star Rush in two of his latest three appearances. Nevertheless, he comes in following a useful enough showing at the distance on a wet track in July and he is the only one of the field to have a runner-up finish in his record. (3) OKCHUMA and (6) RUNNING NUMBER ONE are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(1) Jeongmun Prince (4) Star Rush (7) Mad Blade (3) Okchuma
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

The second division of the maiden and (2) SOUJU could be ready to win here. It is fair to say he has mixed his form across ten starts so far but he comes in following his best run to date when 3rd over 1300M on July 4th. It was a very wet track that day, but he draws nicely in this small field and has as good a chance as any. (6) LONDON HEAT registered a good 3rd place two starts back at this distance and then at her latest outing led over 1400M before weakening late on. She will most likely be leading here too and should be able to stay on better today. (7) LUXURY KING comes in off his best finish to date, a 3rd place over 1400M on July 18th. He can sit on the pace here and run on with placing chances again. (5) CHOEGANG TOMA races for the first time in five months and trialed up well enough to suggest he is worth keeping an eye on for what is essentially, a fresh start today. (4) STORM WARRIOR another with minor money hopes.

Selections(2) Souju (6) London Heat (7) Luxury King (5) Choegang Toma
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here.  (6) AQUA PUNCH comes up in class following back-to-back wins, both of them at this distance. The latest of those saw her on pace throughout, running to the lead in the home straight and then eased down late on. She should measure up in this class and can complete her hat-trick here. It’s not an easy race though.  Disregard the last start of (4) COMPLETE STAR when she didn’t seem to recover from being tightened for room in the early stages of the race and then came back slightly lame. She’s had over two months off since and instead we’ll go on her previous form at this distance which includes a win at class 6 level and 4th place in this grade. She can go close. (3) SHADOW QUEEN comes in off a solid 3rd place at her latest outing when she overcame gate eleven to run on strong for 4th over 1200M and from a much better gate today, she should be in the placing frame. Both (10) ARAK TO WIN (9) GREAT HANSEN come up in class after last start placings at class 6 level and both can be competitive in this company. 

Selections(6) Aqua Punch (4) Complete Star (3) Shadow Queen (10) Arak To Win
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 9

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

Fillies and mares only again and it’s a nice competitive affair with plenty of possible winners. (7) GANGSEO PRINCESS got promoted to this class with a win over 1000M and then a runner-up finish at 1200Mbefore running 5th from a wide draw at today’s distance on her first crack at class 5 in a good time. She looks to have more development in her, can lead and can win. (9) CHOEGANG QUEEN got her win at start number three over 1200M on July 3rd, coming from a handy position to win well. She is up in class today but looks to have plenty more potential for further improvement. (8) EUNHYE PADO was a fine winner over this distance in a decent time on a good-rated track on July 17th. She settled towards the back and then ran on wide for a good score. (10) VICTORICA has the fastest time of any of these at the distance, which she recorded when running 2nd on a very wet track at her last start on July 10th. She can lead, as she did when winning at 1200M in April, or come from the middle and while she is up in the weights today, she can go close. (8) EUNHYE PADO was a fine winner over this distance in a decent time on a good-rated track on July 17th. She settled towards the back and then ran on wide for a good score. She also comes up in class but can measure up. (1) CAREER HIGH perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(7) Gangseo Princess (9) Choegang Queen (10) Victorica (8) Eunhye Pado
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 8: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

(7) TAP QUALITY comes back in trip following a solid 5th place over 1400M on July 3rd when he was handy throughout then wide in the straight and only beaten a length and a half in a tight finish. That showed he can compete at this class and while yet to win he has a solid record at this distance at class 6 level. He has a big chance today. (1) FLYING VICTOR comes up in class after a maiden win at start number four on July 10th when he was handy and wide and ran on well.  From the inside gate, he can settle close to the lead here and has claims again. (6) MISS CAMP comes up in class after back-to-back runner-up finishes, the second of which was in a good time at this distance. An apprentice claim puts her right in this, and she should be on pace. Both (4) RUNNING KING and (2) GLOBAL YEONGUNG are better than recent results suggest, and both are at least place chances here.

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Saturday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 14)

It’s one of those rare Saturdays where both Seoul and Busan hold cards. Both meetings are behind closed doors with no legal betting available to punters in Korea. Blue Chipper and Doctor Carson face off in the feature at Busan. There are 9 races in Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 6 in Busan from 11:30 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens kick us off with five of the ten making their racecourse debuts. We’re going to put a couple of ones with experience on top though. (5) BENCAL PRINCESS was a trial winner in June and then Debuted on July 3rd when the Cowboy Cal filly settled midfield before running on strong for a good 2nd place finish in a fast time behind a good winner who ran 3rd at class 5 level last weekend. Three of today’s rivals were behind her. With natural improvement out of that race, she can win today. (9) YUKWAEHAN SEONTAEK ran 3rd on own debut at this distance back on June 20th. He settled close to the pace that day and ran on and can go close again with Antonio Da Silva climbing aboard. (1) ROAD ACE was 5th behind BENCAL PRINCESS running on pleasingly enough from a midfield position. He can improve today. There were a few promising trial performances from the newcomers with (6) SPEED GALLOP and (8) GEOLJAK DREAM the main eye-catchers.

Selections(5) Bencal Princess (9) Yukwaehan Seontaek (1) Road Ace (6) Speed Gallop
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens go around here with six of the eleven making their racecourse debuts. One of the first-timers is set to be the favourite in the shape of (8) AGAIN TOUCH. A half-sister to last year’s KRA Cup Mile and Minister’s Cup winner Touch Star Man through their dam, Korean Oaks winner Useung Touch. She trialed very nicely in a fast time on a good rated track on July 17th finishing a very close 2nd to a horse that went on to win first-up a couple of weeks ago. If she brings that form to the races, she will win. Among those with experience, (2) GREAT BLUE is the pick. He didn’t catch the eye in his trial but came from well back to run 6th on debut at this distance in a decent time and with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. With a bit of natural improvement, he can get closer today. (11) MONGTTANG, a stablemate of Again Touch, was 7th on debut in that race and will also be expected to improve second-up. Returning to the first-timers, both (6) B.K. MARSHALL and (7) UNJU BULPAE registered decent times and competent performances and are worth keeping an eye on.

Selections(8) Again Touch (2) Great Blue (11) Mongttang (6) B.K. Marshall
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) SOEWAKKOT was a winner at start number two over 1000M on June 12th when he made all in a fast time on a wet track. He then lost his way from the widest gate on his reappearance over 1200M on July 11th but still rallied well enough to finish in 4th place. He draws much better today and looks very much the one to beat. Korea’s all-time leading jockey in terms of winners Park Tae-jong returns from injury and on his first ride back has a decent prospect in the shape of (6) GEUMGUKHWA. She’s posted the fastest time among these at the distance and should be looking for a career best finish here. She will challenge Soewakkot for the early lead as will (5) K N TEUKGEUP, who has a 3rd place to her name at this distance. Her last start was underwhelming but she comes down in the weights with an apprentice aboard and into the frame. (7) SINUI HANSU and (1) OKDONG GONGJU are others with placing hopes.

Selections(3) Soewakkot (6) Geumgukhwa (5) K N Teukgeup (7) Sinui Hansu
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

More juvenile maidens here this time with five of the ten racing for the first time. There are a couple of standouts and to choose between them we will side with experience and (7) YEONGGWANGUILEGEND. He won a May trial before placing 2nd in a fast time on debut on July 16th at this distance when he sat handy and then ran on. He draws the same gate today and should have come on for that debut run. The primary danger is a first-timer. (4) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT was a front-running 2nd in his trial on July 24th coming home in a good time. From a nice draw he can be on pace again and will be running on strong at the business end of the race. The rest will have to be taken on trust somewhat. (8) SEOGWI POINT was on pace early but weakened for 6th over 1200M on debut on July 9th. She drops back in trip today and may improve for that run. (6) BARBELL STORM went through a couple of trials improving in the second of them and he may go ok here. It was hard to judge (3) ADELE BOSS on his trial as it was very slowly run but the trainer/jockey combination will tempt some.

Selections(7) Yeonggwanguilegend (4) Goldenthunderbolt (8) Seogwi Point (6) Barbell Storm
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) IMUGI has been getting closer over the course of his five starts so far and comes in having run 3rd over 1400M when he led until the closing stages. He comes back in trip here and draws very nicely to lead again with solid claims to break through. (11) ROSEDAY MARINE has by some margin the quickest time of any of these at the distance, recorded when 2nd back in April. Since then she has three consecutive 5th places to her name, all at this distance and having led in two of them. While the gate may not be ideal if she can sit close to the pace, she will be in the finish. (6) DDATTEUTHANBIT and (10) YAS both showed signs of figuring things out in the respective latest outings. Ddatteuthanbit comes up in trip after running on well for 3rd over 1000M on June 12th while Yas comes down after running 4th at 1300M on July 10th. Both have placing claims here. Along with Roseday Marine, (7) MEOTJIN GUY is the only other onw in the field with a runner-up finish to his name, achieved three starts back at 1300M and while his times have not been spectacular, that in itself puts him in the frame.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 13)

We’re back to the bad old days. With Covid cases continuing to reach record levels in Korea, the rest of the country has joined the Capital region in ordering doors closed on all betting locations. So, while fans of track cycling can bet and watch from the safety and comfort of their living rooms this weekend, racing, which supports 26,000 jobs across the horse industry and which plows billions of won into the rural economy every year, is forced once more to accrue more losses by racing for prize money only as its fans have no legal avenue to place a bet. Nevertheless, with the Jeju pony racing taking a week off for its summer break, there is a bumper 12-race card at Busan on Friday for overseas simulcasting. Here are the previews of a competitive day’s action:

Dynamic Busan

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A competitive maiden to kick things off. (2) TWO TWO LIME ran 8th behind a couple of these on debut over 1000M on June 19th before stepping up to today’s distance on her reappearance on July 18th. That day she sat midfield and then ran on strong to finish 2nd, albeit well beaten by a good winner. She draws better today and with some natural improvement can win this.  (1) ADELE SUCCESS returns for the first time since finishing 3rd in that June 19th race over 1000MThat was her best finish in five starts so far but marked a continuation in progress in terms of performance. She too draws much better today and could well get a soft lead. She is a “full” sister to Success Story and surely has a win in her at some stage. (4) K CHUKJE has the fastest time of any of these at the distance recorded when 2nd two starts back on a wet track. He followed up with a 5th place a month ago and has placing claims again. (5) HAMAN YEOHANGSAN will be expected to improve on his debut 7th in June. He ran on strong late on and should be better for the experience. (10) SPRING FIRE another capable of placing although may need some luck from a wide draw.

Selections(2) Two Two Lime (1) Adele Success (4) K Chukje (5) Haman Yeohangsan
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Another maiden and they’re all fillies except for one rogue gelding. We’ll side with (6) A ONE PLUS, who needs to be forgiven a dismal showing at her latest start over 1400M on July 18th when she began quickly from gate ten but quickly capitulated to the extant that she was sent back to trial. She looked well when re-qualifying two weeks ago and if we go on her latest two outings at this distance, both in June when she picked up a pair of runner-up finishes in good times, then she is surely in this. (3) HAPPY WOMAN has been consistent across her four outings so far, never finishing any worse than 5th. From a good draw here, she can sit just behind the early pace and run on strong, and the jockey engagement will certainly encourage plenty. That’s true too with (10) WORLD FLOWER who comes in off encouraging runs over 1200M and 1300M in her latest two and can figure again while (7) HOLLYWOOD QUEEN was a much-improved 4th last start coming from off the pace to finish in a fast time at this distance. A repeat is possible here. (2) WONDERFUL LADY among a number of others with minor money hopes in a weak race.

Selections(6) A One Plus (3) Happy Woman (10) World Flower (7) Hollywood Queen
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Another maiden and the vast majority enter with distinctly ordinary form. That makes (4) STEADY WINNER the top pick as, barring her effort two starts back when she was drawn in the car park over 1300M, she has managed to consistently put in creditable efforts. She has the fastest time of these at this distance and comes in off a decent enough 3rd over 1200M last time out. From a nice draw, Perovic can pick his spot and she should be too strong at the business end of the race. (7) SEONGSIL SONYEO has been getting a bit too far back in her races, but she generally runs on well enough. She is the only runner here with a 2nd place on her resume and the step up in trip may benefit. (3) QUEEN HARLEY came from well back to run 6th over 1300M at her latest start. She has had a couple of months off since and can go well first up here. (11) HAVANA JANE has hinted at figuring things out this preparation. She tackles the distance for the first time, and it could well suit. (1) MACH UNI possibly the best of a very limited rest.

Selections(4) Steady Winner (7) Seongsil Sonyeo (3) Queen Harley (11) Havana Jane
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

A maiden of many chances over the mile. (4) TRIPLE STORM is the tentative top pick having shown good consistency in recent starts over 1400M with a 2nd and a 3rd among his efforts so far this year and with some solid times posted along the way. He tends to go right back and run on, and he tackles a mile for the first time. (2) YEONSEUNG BRAVO has the fastest time among those who have tried this distance before. He comes back up in trip after a good 4th over 1300M three weeks ago when he ran on well and he gives jockey Shin Yun-seob a good opportunity on his first day race riding in Korea. (11) MAJOR FORCE has a couple of 4th place finishes to his name at this distance and comes back up in trip following two creditable 5th places over 1400M. He is tactically versatile so the wide draw shouldn’t be too problematic, and he should enter the calculations. (9) ECHO LADY finished behind Major Force last start but previously ran 2nd with a front-running performance in a fast time over 1400M. She will probably be on pace here and can go close. (10) STORM BROWN one of several others with at least minor money hopes in what is a nice competitive affair.

Selections(4) Triple Storm (2) Yeonseung Bravo (11) Major Force (9) Echo Lady
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

Super race for the level. (8) MISS INDIE comes up in class after winning her first two starts, the second of which was an all the way six-length score over 1400M on July 11th. She comes up in trip as well, but her half-brother Mr. Afleet followed a similar trajectory and recently won a class 1 at 1800M so she should be able to cope with it. This is a tough race, but she can maintain her 100% record. (1) K K WON is yet to win after eleven attempts but enters in good form with two runner- up finishes from his latest three outings, both of which were at today’s distance. From the inside gate, he can sit handy and run on strong and he should be in the finish again. (3) YEONGDO GALMAEGI came home in 4th place behind K K Won on what was his first try at this class and distance on July 23. He led for much of that race and could well have come on for the experience. (7) WHITE GALLOPER and (11) DOCTOR TAKE both come up in class following last start wins over 1400M. The running style of both can suit the extended distance today and both can measure up in this company.

Selections(8) Miss Indie (1) K K Won (3) Yeongdo Galmaegi (7) White Galloper
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 8

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

Another good race for this level with many chances. (1) LUCKY BREAK was an all the winner by no fewer than ten-lengths on July 18th. She does come up in class, but she registered the fastest time among any of these at the distance for good measure and it was on a dry track. She draws nicely today and must be given every chance. Lucky Break has tended to be an all or nothing performer though with two wins her only top-three finishes from eight starts so far. If you prefer proven consistency, then (4) BURNING PARTY may be the way to go.  Her latest outings, all at this distance have been very solid with a class 6 win among them. She has a 2nd and a 4th at this level to her name already and from a nice draw should be challenging for the lead right from the start. (12) ECOPIA doesn’t get the best of luck with the draw but there is no doubting her speed as shown when she posted a minute-flat for the 1000M in June. She was a class and distance 3rd in a good time at her latest outing and if Franco Da Silva can find a good spot for her, then she should be in this. (3) WONDERFUL JAZZ ran on strong for a close at hand 4th at class and distance last start and can be in the mix again. (5) B. K. KING STAR was a winner at this distance two starts back and ran well for 2nd on his first try at this class a month ago.

Selections(1) Lucky Break (4) Burning Party (12) Ecopia (3) Wonderful Jazz
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 11, 12
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Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 8)

It’s Seoul only on Sunday and accordingly there is a bumper fifteen-race program from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

It’s set to be anther sunny day at Seoul on Sunday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Tricky one to start with. (1) GEOSEN DOLPUNG hasn’t exactly set the stopwatch alight with his times over his first four starts but his last time out 3rd having led for much of the way around was encouraging. So too was a trial in July when he led all the way. He draws the inside so should get a nice lead here and can make the breakthrough. (4) ONLY WINNER has a couple of runner-up finishes to her name. Last time, at this distance, she settled midfield and ran on for 4th and she should be in the finish again today. So too should (7) FINAL ACE. His results have been up and down but enters with his best results being his recent ones. He should be on pace from the start. (12) DESK TAP ran 5th behind Final Ace two starts back but improved when back at 1000M and 3rd on his June reappearance. He overcame the widest draw that day too and shouldn’t be ruled out. (11) DOUBLE TAKE has run a couple of useful times and is a minor money contender.

Selections(1) Geosen Dolpung (4) Only Winner (7) Final Ace (12) Desk Tap
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

He’s drawn in the car park but that shouldn’t stop (12) WONDERFUL K from getting off the mark at start number seven. He has the fastest time among these for the distance by some margin and last time settled back before running on strongly for 3rd. Jang Chu-youl can pick his spot here and he should be too strong. (5) ONE JI overcame a wide draw to lead over 1300M last time out on June 27th. The better gate coupled with the slight drop back in trip can help him challenge for the early lead and he should be in the finish again. (3) KING CRUSH is perhaps worth another look after an inauspicious debut a month ago. He had previously shown ability in a trial and should strip fitter for his race experience. Kim Yong-geun stays aboard which is a plus. (2) MAIN OF KING didn’t impress last time out at 1300M but if we go on his run at this distance two starts back when he ran on from midfield for a solid 2nd place, then he has claims. (4) BIBONG MARU draws much better than she has at her two latest outings and accordingly can come into at least the placing calculations.

Selections(12) Wonderful K (5) One Ji (3) King Crush (2) Main Of King
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million

(7) WONDERFUL TYCOON is the one to beat here. He has by some margin the fastest time among any of these at the distance, recorded when 3rd two starts back, and he followed up with another 3rd at 1200M a month ago. His style is to settle midfield and run on strong and he should have too much here. (12) LEGEND STAR has finished 3rd in all three starts so far. At her first start she was slowly away before finishing well over 1000M but has been prominent early in her subsequent two outings. She steps up slightly in trip today and she can match or better those 3rds. The only previous winner in the race is (11) JEONGMUN POKJU, who made his breakthrough two starts back at 1400M. Last time out he got a bit too far back before rallying for 5th at this distance and if given more of a chance today position-wise, then he should be in the mix. (10) MAGIC TIDE steps up to this trip for the first time and seems to be figuring things out with a good 4th at 1200M last time. Expect him to be on pace today despite the wide draw. (4) PEPE RUN was an improved 4th last time out and can build on that today.

Selections(7) Wonderful Tycoon (12) Legend Star (11) Jeongmun Pokju (10) Magic Tide
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start9, 10, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only here and at start number sixteen, (1) WONDERFUL ORANGE ready to break through at last. She comes in having run a well beaten 2nd at this distance last start when, as is her style, she went back at the start but closed strongly. She has been running consistently good times and the inside gate should see her get an easy enough run here. (7) BORI BORI also enters off a last start runner-up finish when she sat handy and ran on in a similar race over this distance. That continued her upward trajectory and she should be in the hunt here. (6) MISS SPEED came home in 3rd place in the same race, her best finish in nine starts so far. She has tended to get a bit far back in her races but ran a little more prominently early on last time and a repeat of that can see her in the finish again. (2) MODERN BEST came home in 5th place to (8) FLYING FULL MOON’s 4th when they met at 1200M on July 3rd and both have placing claims here.

Selections(1) Wonderful Orange (7) Bori Bori (6) Miss Speed (2) Modern Best
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

There is only one previous winner in the race and it would be no surprise if (11) TOUCH MY ADELE was to follow up with another. That win came at her last stat when she settled towards the back of a small field but ran on very strongly in the closing stages. The additional half furlong today shouldn’t hurt her cause at all and despite the thirteen weeks between runs, she is the one to beat. (10) YEONGUNG DAEMA come sin following a 6th place in a fast time on a wet track at this distance on July 4th. The same apprentice who rode him that day keeps the weight down again and he should be aiming for a career-best finish here. He shares the fastest time at the distance with (8) REAL CONCORD who recorded hers when 5th in a different race on the same day She was ridden a little more forward that day than she had been in other starts and it seemed to pay off and improvement can be expected here. (7) TEUKGEUP YEOWANG comes back up in trip following 4th place at 1000M. She could well be on pace early here and should be in the finish. (3) GEUMSUNG CHARMING drops back in trip after some solid showings at 1400M and is another with placing claims.

Selections(11) Touch My Adele (10) Yeongung Daema (8) Real Concord (7) Teukgeup Yeowang
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 11

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

Having won two trials, (1) YUKWAEHAN NALDEUL was a gate to wire winner by four-lengths on debut over 1000M on July 3rd. He comes up in both class and trip today but neither looks to be much of an issue and from a very nice draw, he is one of the banker favourites of the day. (8) GOLDEN CHANCE has been no worse than 5th in five outings to date although she is yet to win. She does her best work when leading and while that won’t be easy what with the favourite being much better drawn, she can go close. (7) BLACK SILVER beat Golden Chance when 2nd at class and distance on June 27th. A brand new apprentice jockey sees her come done significantly in the weights for this time and another placing is a possibility. (10) GREEN POKJU is another who likes to lead so while the draw may not be ideal for him here, if he can find a decent position, he can’t be ruled out. (3) SET THE PACE the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Yukwaehan Naldeul (8) Golden Chance (7) Black Silver (10) Green Pokju
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 10

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

Could this finally be time for (12) ROYAL GHOST to make the breakthrough. She has no fewer than nine top three finishes from sixteen outings to date yet a maiden win continues to elude her. She beat a couple of these when overcoming gate thirteen to run 3rd at class and distance on June 27th, sweeping home from off the pace and a similar run today may just see her do it. She is giving weight away to the favourite though. That’s (11) LEAD VOCAL, whose win came at class 6 level over 1400M when making all. She enters off a solid 3rd place at this distance last start and while she comes up in class, she will have plenty of backers. (3) GAJA PLAN’s latest two appearances have been underwhelming but she draws nicely to get on pace here and can improve. (1) AROMA comes in off a solid class and distance 3rd place on June 20th and can aim to match here. (9) ILHYANG DALMA comes up in class despite remaining winless and is another in the placing frame.

Selections(12) Royal Ghost (11) Lead Vocal (3) Gaja Plan (1) Aroma
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 7)

It’s Busan’s turn to take the weekend off so It’s just Seoul on duty. There are 10 races on Saturday from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Twelve previously unraced two-year-olds go around here. Eight of them are fillies and it’s one of those who is set to be favourite. (4) LADY FIRST beat three of today’s rivals in her trial when she showed prominently and ran on well for 2nd. The time was nothing out of the ordinary but it wasn’t a quick heat all round and if she brings that form to the races, she may prove hard to beat. (5) PUREUN YOJEONG ran 3rd in the same trial. She came from off the pace and finished off well and with some natural improvement, she can be in the finish here. The only trial winner in the field is (9) LAROMANEE. She made all to come home comfortably on top and while the draw doesn’t favour her, she will be expected to aim to lead and has solid claims. (8) POWER BOX will be looking to get on pace as well and can be considered, while (11) FAST TRACK is another who did nothing wrong in his trial

Selections(4) Lady First (5) Pureun Yojeong (9) Laromanee (8) Power Box
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million

Three-year-old maidens here and we’re going to take a chance on one of the four first-time starters. (1) YEONGWANGUI CAPTAIN has taken a long time to be ready having first trialed up in September last year. He won a trial last November, making all but never raced and then finally reappeared in early July. He took part that day in a fast trial with some experienced horses and acquitted himself well, running 4th in a good time. He won’t need to improve much off that in order to win first-up here. (5) WONDERFUL HWASEONG has improved across three starts so far culminating in a good 2nd last time out when he was handy throughout before running on well at this distance. He draws the same gate today and looks the main danger. In a race of patchy form, the 2nd place secured by (2) MODERN TIMES on debut back in May puts her right in this regardless of the underwhelming 5th she managed on reappearance a month ago. She draws well to lead. (9) BIG POCKET offered no evidence of ability in four starts up to June. He did though win a trial last month and accordingly will have backers. Another first-time starter, (10) K N PARK, looks the best of a limited rest.

Selections(1) Yeongwangui Captain (5) Wonderful Hwaseong (2) Modern Times (9) Big Pocket
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(4) K BLADE racked up three consecutive 3rd place finishes before running out of steam having led over this distance last time out. Nevertheless, he has the fastest time of any of these at 1300M and it would be no surprise if he made it tenth time lucky today. Another one with plenty of near-misses is (12) CUPID KOREA. He has a 2nd place over 1400M to his name as well as some solid efforts at today’s trip. He doesn’t tend to lead so the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and he looks to be a danger. (5) COOL PRINCESS has mixed her form but she has proven capable of running good times. She draws well and looks set to lead here. (2) OFFICER COMMANDING and (11) GRAND STAR are among others with hopes of competing for a place.

Selections(4) K Blade (12) Cupid Korea (5) Cool Princess (2) Officer Commanding
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

(6) BURUI YEOWANG is a winner of two from three so far including last start which was at this class over 1200M. She has led or been right on pace in all three outings to date and while she comes up a couple of kilos in the weights and stretches out slightly in trip, she draws well and can win again. (11) BODYGUARD comes in seeking a hat-trick of victories. Both have come at this distance and both times he has come from off the pace, suggesting that the wide draw is of little consequence. He steps up in class today but should be competitive. (10) HAPPY DAY is yet to win but has had three near-misses from four starts. She comes up in class following a desperately close defeat at 1200M a month ago. She was doing her best work late on that day and slightly more distance to play with may suit. (2) LONDON QUEEN beat a couple of these when 2nd at this class over 1200M on June 20th and has placing chances again. (9) GAGANA among a number of others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(6) Burui Yeowang (11) Bodyguard (10) Happy Day (2) London Queen
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 12

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

It’s about time that (6) BEST TIME returned to the winner’s circle. Since her solitary win she has consistently run fast times and has had several near-misses including a solid 3rd at her latest outing over 1400M. She comes back in trip here and gets in under a light weight and can settle midfield and run on strong. (9) GLOBAL SUN registered three consecutive wins around the turn of the year which saw her promoted to this class. She comes in off a fair 4th at 1200M in June and a similar run today would see her not far off. (8) CHEONJI YEOGEOL was 4th behind Best Time at her latest start. She comes up a bit in the weights but can sit just off the pace here and run on strong. (10) GOOD VOW has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and along with (1) MASEONG TUHON, looks to have solid placing claims.

Selections(6) Best Time (9) Global Sun (8) Cheonji Yeogeol (10) Good Vow
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

(6) ROYAL ROAD stepped up to this trip at his latest starts and ran a solid 3rd in decent company. He has already won at this level over 1400M and is tactically versatile as he can lead or go back and run on. He is giving weight away but really should take some beating in this company. (9) ALPHA DOK put in a decent shift when 4th on his first try at both class and distance on June 5th. He generally runs best when leading or close to the pace and if he can find a good position here, he looks to be the main danger. (7) WONDERFUL DEVIL comes up in class and distance following a good win over 1400M on July 3rd. She sat midfield and then finished strongly that day so the distance may suit and she gets in at a light weight. (4) GOLDEN BADGE remains a maiden after ten attempts but has gone close on plenty of occasions, including last time when she was 2nd at 1400M. She tackles two turns for the first time here and it may well suit. (2) SUN FIGHTING the best of the rest.

Selections(6) Royal Road (9) Alpha Dok (7) Wonderful Devil (4) Golden Badge
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 7: Class 4 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Tricky race but it could be that it’s time for (10) JEONGSANG KINGDOM to get his maiden win. He has been getting closer across his latest three outings, beating plenty of today’s rivals along the way but tending to leave himself just a little too much to do. From the widest gate, he will surely go back again and will come through strong late on. If he leaves it too late again then (2) WONDERFUL INDIAN may be the one to take advantage. Beaten by Jeongsang Kingdom two starts back, he rebounded with a strong 3rd on his return on July 4th when he sat midfield before running on. He will be in the hunt again here. (5) SPEEDY ROOKIE got too far back over 1400M at his latest start but was 5th behind Jeongsang Kingdom at this trip in May. He may well be ridden a bit more forward today in the absence of much speed and he comes into the calcualtions. (3) INCHEON SPEED and (4) CUPID BABE are others in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Jeongsang Kingdom (2) Wonderful Indian (5) Speedy Rookie (3) Incheon Speed
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 9

Seoul Race 8: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(4) NORTHERN TIME was a winner at start number two at class and distance on July 3rd when he overcame a wide draw to get on the early pace. He carries considerably more weight today which can be a steadier, but he draws much better and he has every chance of winning again. It’s a similar story with (9) NAMSANUI BYEOL, who came from off the pace to win well at class and distance on June 26th. He too comes up in the weights but the wide draw isn’t a concern and he can be a big danger. (5) CHEON GUN was 2nd to Namsanui Byeol in that race and also has experience of winning over this trip. He meets Namsanui Byeol at better weights this time and looks set to go close. (7) FULL BOOSTER is top-rated and while yet to win, has plenty of experience of going close and he can be involved in the finish. (1) SAENAE SUN appears to have more improvement in the tank and stretches out to the distance for the first time.

Selections(4) Northern Time (9) Namsanui Byeol (5) Cheon Gun (7) Full Booster
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 9: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(5) JOEUNGIRL has won five of her six starts to date including her last four in a row and accordingly steps up into class 3 company today. She has won at this distance before and comes nicely down in the weights. She has a good draw to lead and she has every chance of winning again. This should be a stern examination though. (2) MUNHAK MOON will also fancy getting on the pace from an inside draw and he has two wins from his last three starts, He too comes up in class following his latest score a month ago but he will be competitive. (3) FIGHT TODAY has loads of experience at this level and while he may not look a winning chance here, he is rarely far away and can be in the finish. (8) MIGHTY CHIP and (11) SIRIUS A are others capable of being in the finish.

Selections(5) Joeungirl (2) Munhak Moon (3) Fight Today (8) Mighty Chip
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 11

Seoul Race 10: Class 2 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

He might be up in class and we often talk about there being quite the gulf between class 3 and class 2, but it’s hard to oppose (7) SPEED GO. A winner of five from seven including his latest three, he comes in off a good win at this trip last start. He may need to go a bit faster today but he still looks to have more improvement in him and he should be leading gate to wire here. (2) SINGSING MARY enters off a good 3rd in a fast time at class and distance on July 3rd. She draws nicely in this small field and should be competitive from start to finish. (3) LUCKY BEOPJEON is super consistent and just like Speed Go, comes up in class today. He can settle just behind the pace and run on strongly. (4) RAON TAP MAN had a poor day at the office on his latest outing when well back behind Singsing Mary. We’ll go on his previous form at class and distance though and give him another chance here. The talented but wayward (6) MARK STORY is the wildcard.

Selections(7) Speed Go (2) Singsing Mary (3) Lucky Beopjeon (4) Raon Tap Man
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 31)

Seoul is taking its annual summer weekend off so Busan ploughs a lone furrow. There are 5 races on Saturday from 14:20 to 18:00 (there is also pony racing at Jeju which is simulcast into Busan if you were wondering what the point is of such a short card) while on Sunday there is a bumper 15-race program from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are Saturday’s previews:

This is a very old picture of Busan Racecourse

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Maidens kick us off and (1) HAVE A GOOD TIME enters with the fastest time at this distance and has shown good consistency in his latest outings. He generally sits handy and the inside gate should allow him to pick his spot and he can break through here. (10) PURE KING raced twice last year registering a 4th at 1000M and a 3rd at today’s trip. He has not been seen since but he trialed up very pleasingly at the start of July, putting in a fast time and has every chance of going well first-up here. He doesn’t need to lead so the draw should not be too much of a hindrance. Speaking of the draw, (5) AREUMDAUN GAMDONG took full advantage of finally getting a good one when a much improved 3rd at this distance last time out. The barrier is kind once again and a repeat of that performance should put him in the finish. (7) CROWN KING STAR has shown improvement over three appearances to date, and led for much of the way around before ending up 3rd over 1300M on July 4th. The slight drop back in trip may suit and he has solid claims. Expect him to be competing for the early lead with (8) SONHADOR, who races for only the second time but who has shown good speed and should strip fitter for his debut run just two weeks ago.

Selections(1) Have A Good Time (10) Pure King (5) Areumdaun Gamdong (7) Crown King Star
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Disregard the latest effort from (1) CHEONGMA HWANGHU on July 9th when from a wide gate, he took a bump at the start and was subsequently out of position and wide all the way around. He should have a much easier run of it from the inside today and if we go on his previous work at this distance with a 3rd and a 4th in fast times then we can expect him to lead here and potentially go all the way. (4) SAEMANGEUMUIVISION was one of those to benefit from Cheongma Hwanghu’s luckless run earlier this month as she finished ahead of him that day. In that race she settled handy and ended up a good 4th but she has come from off the pace to go close as well and she can be a danger here. (12) WONDERFUL LADY worked home well for 3rd at her last start, continuing the upturn in form she has shown over her latest outings. From the widest gate she can run her own race here and reel plenty in late on. (10) CATCH THE SUN has finished in 5th place on both previous outings. He did his best work late on in both so superficially at least, the extra half-furlong today may work in his favour. (3) DREAM DANCER will need her latest two outings forgiven but she draws much better today and should improve.

Selections(1) Cheongma Hwanghu (4) Saemangeumuivision (12) Wonderful Lady (10) Catch The Sun
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Fascinating clash here between two up and comers who will probably start as nearly co-favourites. We’ll tentatively side with (3) GEUMA STORMING, who debuted with a fast 2nd at this distance on a wet track in June having led almost the entire way around. He then stepped up to 1800M on July 4th and say just behind the leader before proving too strong in the closing stages. He does come up in weights but he draws nicely and can win again. So too can (7) JERA, who has four wins from five starts so far. A year Geuma Storming’s junior but more experienced, the Musket Man colt races for the first time since winning at class and distance on May 1st. He is versatile in that he can either lead all the way or settle back and run on and he has every chance. (4) ITSMYLUCKYBOY ran 2nd to Jera on that May race before stepping up to 1800M on June 6th and leading from gate to wire for his maiden win. He comes up slightly in the weights today but is likely to be on pace and can go close. So too can (12) DUNCAN. He was 4th behind Geuma Storming in June but has won at class and distance. He too comes up in the weights. (11) QUEEN UP perhaps the best of a competitive rest, carrying a light weight.

Selections(3) Geuma Storming (7) Jera (4) Itsmyluckyboy (12) Duncan
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 10, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

A very competitive handicap but (4) ONNURI JILJU coming down a full 6.5kg in the weights from his 2nd place over 1400M on June 27th is too tempting to ignore despite him being up in class today. He has finished in the top two on six of seven starts so far, winning well at today’s distance, and looks good to be in the finish again. He gets significant weight from (10) CHOEGANG SSONSAL, who comes in off a good 2nd place over 1400M at his latest start on June 12th. He comes back to a trip over which he has run one of the fastest times this year and warrants respect today. (7) MY QUEEN also comes back in trip, in her case after a win over 1400M in April. She is resuming after three months out but has never finished any worse than 3rd in eight outings to date and has every chance of going well first up today. (12) QUEEN OF THE WORLD beat Choegang Ssonsal, as well as a number of others who go here, at this class over 1400M on June 12th. She made all that day but will possibly have a harder time from the widest gate today. (11) MACH TITAN joins Onnuru Jilju up in class having won that June 27th race. Despite there being a big swing in both the weights and in the draw advantage, as well as the shorter distance, he can be competitive again.

Selections(4) Onnuri Jilju (10) Choegang Ssonsal (7) My Queen (12) Queen Of The World
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 2 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Nice race to finish off with and (3) DOCTOR FAPPIANO can continue her superb run of form, despite jumping up two classes from her latest start. She won that well leading for much of the way before being briefly headed in the home straight and then running on strongly. The time would have been competitive at this level and she carries next to nothing on her back. Coming up just the one class is (7) WINNER’S MAN who, back in early spring when we naively believed racing would be able to return to some sort of normality, was set to be one of the leading contenders for the Triple Crown series. He was a fast winner at this distance two stats back and while he struggled a little under 57kg at his latest start, today’s weight assignment puts him right back in contention. If you value experience at this level, then (5) CURLIN TIME is the one to go for. He runs super consistent times at this distance and will be running on strong late on. (6) YEONGGWANGUI PARTY returned from ten months out to run a creditable 3rd at this distance on June 26th leading for most of the race before running out of steam late on. He is another up in class but he should be fitter for that run and the weight again is ideal. (11) DEEP MIND won the Oaks two years ago and hinted at a return to form with a 3rd place on what was her first start in nine months at the end of May.

Selections(3) Doctor Fappiano (7) Winner’s Man (5) Curlin Time (6) Yeonggwangui Party
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start6, 7, 11, 12

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 25)

Seoul will take its summer weekend off next week followed by Busan the week after so this is the last time for three weeks that both tracks will be running on a Sunday. There are 9 races at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:30 to 16:50. Here are the previews:

East Jet goes on Sunday

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

Twelve previously unraced juveniles go around here so it’s to the trial videos that we must head. It’s pretty clear who the favourite is going to be. (3) COMPLETE TIME was an eye-catching winner of her trial, making all in a fast time on a good track. If she shows any natural improvement from that, she will be hard to beat. (10) CHEOLLICHONG placed 3rd in a trial when on pace and ridden to the line in a fair time. She’s by Hansen, whose progeny have shown speed as juveniles on the track here. (1) WONPYEONG GASOK was 4th in a trial when he settled last on jumping before making a solid run from the 600M and ran home better than anything else in his heat. He is a half-brother to Jungchubusa, who won her first two races at Seoul. (6) RAON THE SPURT is “full’ sister to Raon Tough Man, who ran 2nd in the Korean Derby last year. She trialed adequately when awkwardly away and settled handy to the leaders before running home well for 4th. She has every chance of going well first-up.

Selections(3) Complete Time (10) Cheollichong (1) Wonpyeong Gasok (6) Raon The Spurt
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Fillies only and the one to beat is (1) CHOEGANG ILSE. She comes in off a career best 2nd over this trip on June 26th when she sat in midfield before running on strong and well beaten by a good winner. She can sit handy today from the inside gate and has the strongest finish in the race by some margin. The solitary first-time starter in the field caught the eye in her trial. (12) HAMAN BANGEOSAN sat handy and ran on strong for 2nd place in a decent time and while the widest gate may not be ideal, she looks well placed here on debut and can be considered. (3) HIT JACKPOT has been on an upward trajectory in terms of times and of finishes in recent starts, culminating in 2nd place last start at this distance having gone right back at the start and should be running on strong again. (2) STEADY WINNER couldn’t do herself justice from a wide draw over 1300M last start, but she comes back in trip and into a decent gate here and duly enters the calculations.

Selections(1) Choegang Ilse (12) Haman Bangeosan (3) Hit Jackpot (2) Steady Winner
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

We are going to take on the favourite here with (2) CRAZY TANK simply based on how he went in a trial last week. He’s only raced the three times before, most recently getting bumped early and then racing very wide before a decent enough finish for 4th. However, in his trial last week he made all to cross the line a full 23 (twenty-three) lengths ahead of anything else in what was, unsurprisingly, the fastest time of the morning. He has a great draw and while there is always the risk that he left his race in that trial, he looks worth taking a chance on. The favourite will be (5) DAESAN TEUKGEUP and deservedly so based on his last start five-length win over 1000M when wide but too strong in the straight. The extra distance won’t be a problem and he will be in the finish. (12) SMART POWER can’t be left out of the calculations as he is a winner at this distance when handy in the run which was followed up with a 4th place from way off the pace. He resumes for the first time since January but looked well in a recent trial and has placing claims. So too does (3) JISANGUN. He’s a colt who has shown improvement at every start and wasn’t far away when 5th over 1000M at his latest outing. Further natural improvement form that will bring him into the frame here.

Selections(2) Crazy Tank (5) Daesan Teukgeup (12) Smart Power (3) Jisangun
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Not the most inspiring of maidens this but a couple of them look as though they have a win in them. (6) FIGHT DREAM is one of two here who have a runner-up finish to their name. His came in April over 1300M and he has since run creditably at today’s distance too with back-to-back 4th place finishes both times when leading. It might take a bit of time here as others are faster starters, but he can work his way to the front here and could score. (4) DOCTOR TAKE drops back in trip following a 3rd and a 4th over 1600M. He has been a bit one-paced in his races but can find a good position from a nice draw and go close. (9) SEONGSAN HERO beat Doctor Take last start when 2nd over a mile. He led that day until the middle of the home straight and will be expected to be on pace here with claims to go all the way. (8) SMARTY DOLPUNG has shown steady improvement across three starts to date with 4th place last time her best. She won’t need to improve much to match or better that here.

Selections(6) Fight Dream (4) Doctor Take (9) Seongsan Hero (8) Smarty Dolpung
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start3, 8, 9, 12

Seoul Race 3:  Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million

Tricky race but we’ll go with (4) CHOIN SPARK who may be the improver here having placed 2nd at his last start over 1000M when handy and wide all the way before balancing up nicely in the straight then working home well. Another crack at 1200M may suit and he could be the one to beat. (8) BURUI GASOK has run well at this class and was fair at his latest effort when on the pace and wide all the way. He has the fastest start amongst these and should be able to overcome gate eight to get on pace again. The solitary debut-maker is (10) NEW STAR YEONGCHEON, who was a trial winner at the start of this month. She led and then kicked clear near the finish and crossed the line with plenty in hand. She should strip fitter for that and enters the calculations first-up. (7) ONCHEONHA ran 3rd last start over this distance, showing speed to be on the pace and while he was well in arrears of the winner, he battled on well and was just pipped for 2nd. Solid placing chance here.

Selections(4) Choin Spark (8) Burui Gasok (10) New Star Yeongcheon (7) Oncheonha
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (3) GOOD TANK enters with a 100% record to maintain having won her first two starts in fine order, leading gate to wire in both. She comes up in class and in trip here but draws a great barrier to get to the lead again and has every chance of making it three in a row.  (6) FASHION BLADE is a winner of two from four so far and including her latest on June 20th, when she settled handy from a wide draw before dropping back and then running on smartly to score in a fast time at this class and distance beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She comes up in the weights as a result but draws better and is a danger. (11) BURNING PARTY ran 2nd to Fashion Blade in that June 20th race having been on pace and leading for much of the race. She has won at this distance and has posted consistently fast times so should be a threat again. (5) FIRST STAR was 4th in the same race and while she may perhaps have less scope for improvement than some of her rivals, she is rarely far away and should be in the mix again.

Selections(3) Good Tank (6) Fashion Blade (11) Burning Party (5) First Star
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

(3) LAGERTHA was a solid winner at this class and distance on her latest start on June 20th. That day she settled midfield before running on strong late on to beat a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She comes in at the same weights and a repeat of that effort would make her hard to beat. (7) HERO SPEED ran 2nd to Lagertha in the June 20th race. After settling on the pace and wide she finished off well and actually led in the final furlong. She may not turn the tables here but should be a strong place chance again. (6) GABO SARANGHAE was 4th in that same race continuing an upward trajectory of performances. She broke the best that day and was on pace until the end and she will be competing for the early lead again today. (11) AFLEET MARINE shouldn’t be too concerned about the wide draw. She can settle just off the pace and has consistently run competitive times at this distance. She disappointed as favourite last start when 6th but can be given another chance here.

Selections(3) Lagertha (7) Hero Speed (6) Gabo Saranghae (11) Afleet Marine
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

(4) ACE SOLOMON was a winner of two from four at class 6 level, including at this distance, before running 2nd on his first try at this class on June 26th when he settled midfield and finished off well, albeit well beaten by a good winner. He finished ahead of two of today’s rivals and he has solid claims to return to the winner’s circle here.  (2) INFINITY POWER was a winner at this distance at class 6 level and ran a good 2nd at her latest start on June 20th, sitting off the pace and then running on strong. Jo In-kwon climbing aboard today is in her favour. (1) WONDERFUL KING drops back in trip following two very encouraging spins around 1400M. He is yet to win from eleven attempts but has six top-three finishes and while he is giving away weight, he draws well and should be in the finish again. (3) PARTY INDY steps up in class here following a good win at the distance in May. She made all that day and while this is a stiffer test, she should be on speed again and can measure up against most of these.

Selections(4) Ace Solomon (2) Infinity Power (1) Wonderful King (3) Party Indy
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

(12) GWANGYANG EUTTEUM ran 2nd on debut before stumbling a bit at the start on his reappearance on June 27th before proceeding to absolutely bolt in by eight-lengths over this distance. He is up in class here and draws the car park, but neither should be of concern, and he has every chance again. (1) HI HI is ultra-consistent having never been worse than 3rd in five starts so far and is versatile too having won from behind and also – by a full ten-lengths – when having led from the start. Last time over 1300M he settled midfield and ran on well for 3rd and he may prove hard to beat from the perfect draw. There appears to be plenty of speed in this race and if there is too much of it, (7) ENERGIZER could prove to be the beneficiary. He came from well back for a good 3rd place last time over 1300M beating a few of these in the process and he will be given a patient ride again here. (6) NORWAY THIRD is up in class on her last start win over 1000M when she led all the way. This is tougher but she may offer some each-way value.

Selections(12) Gwangyang Eutteum (1) Hi Hi (7) Energizer (6) Norway Third
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 12
(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 23)

Corona cases continue to reach record highs in Korea on a daily basis, while vaccine stocks have run out and the reopening of Seoul Racecourse looks further away than ever. With tightening restrictions across the entire country, it seems inevitable that at some stage those few places where betting is allowed to remain open will close too. For now though, Busan Racecourse continues to admit a limited number of customers and it is on the south coast where the weekend’s action kicks off with 6 races from 13:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Dynamic Busan

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 33 Million

This class 6 is restricted to three-year-olds and younger and the solitary previous winner is set to be strong favourite to repeat. (4) ENDLESS RUNNING showed promise in two starts over the turn of the year before having five months off. He won a trial in late May before making all to win on his racing return over 1000M on June 19th. He draws nicely to lead again and should have too much. (7) WORLD CHANGE hasn’t raced since a very encouraging debut last December when he ran 2nd to Raon The Power at today’s trip. He looked in very good order when winning a June trial in a fast time on a wet track. The jockey and trainer combination will attract plenty and he’s the clear second pick. (6) WORLD FASHIONED didn’t do much in starts last August and this February. He looked well in a front-running trial performance at the end of June and may be a different prospect today. (3) YEOSU TORNADO was a significant improver at his latest start on June 26th, settling back and then running on for 5th and he can build on that here.

Selections(4) Endless Running (7) World Change (6) World Fashioned (3) Yeosu Tornado
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 22 Million

Tricky one here. We’ll take a chance on (11) KING GOLIATH, who overcame gate thirteen on debut over 1400M on June 27th to run a very creditable 4th in a good time. The draw has been scarcely any kinder this time around, but he can build on that performance and can get close here. The expected favourite is (5) MYEONGSEONG MAGIC. After an indifferent first couple of outings, she has run two very solid race at 1200M recording good times She gets a good draw today to be the likely leader and she has every chance of leading all the way. (2) DONGBANG CAPTAIN has mixed her form across six starts to date but comes in off a strong 3rd over 1200M on June 26th. True her ventures at further than six furlongs so far have been less than fruitful, but she is worth another chance here. (7) HAVANA JANE may be at last figuring things out if the evidence of her 4th place last start is anything to go by. It was a much more mature performance than she has previously shown, and she is a place chance here.

Selections(11) King Goliath (5) Myeongseong Magic (2) Dongbang Captain (7) Havana Jane
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) BABY LINE picks himself here as he goes looking for his fourth straight win. The Officer colt’s latest three scores have all been at this distance and in fast times and he even draws well this time. The same apprentice who has ridden him in those wins keeps the weight down again and he should be winning again. (10) RAON THE BOSS comes in off two consecutive wins in good times over 1300M and a mile. True he is rapidly up in class as a result, and this is considerably tougher, but he has overcome wide draws before and he could be a good each-way chance here. (6) VERRA DAY appeared to completely lose his way earlier this year but returned to some semblance of form with a strong 2nd place over class and distance on June 20th. He had been getting way too far back in his races, but last time sat midfield and ran on strongly and a repeat of that run puts him in the finish today. (9) CRONUS must also be in the calculations after a fine class and distance win on July 2nd. He comes up a full 4kg in weight for his troubles but has run consistent times and is a placing chance again.

Selections(5) Baby Line (10) Raon The Boss (6) Verra Day (9) Cronus
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 12

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 33 Million

After back-to-back runner-up finishes, (11) WILD INDIE got his maiden win at start number three over a mile on June 6th when he was steadily away before quickly taking command. He comes up in class today, but the wide draw shouldn’t be much of a concern, and the half-brother to Beolmaui Kkum is strongly favoured to win again. (7) JANGSAN PRIDE beat Wild Indie when recording what is to fate his sole victory over a mile two starts back. He ran 5th on his first try at this class a month ago on a wet track and with Perovic back aboard, he can aim to at least place here. Up in class is (1) YEONGDO GALMAEGI, who got his breakthrough win over 1400M last start. His racing pattern suggests that the step up in trip to a mile will suit and from the inside gate, he should go close. (3) GEUMA GOOD POINT is rarely far away with eight top four finishes from eleven outings so far. He’ll be there or thereabouts again.

Selections(11) Wild Indie (7) Jangsan Pride (1) Yeongdo Galmaegi (3) Geuma Good Point
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 45 Million

A real clash of non-winners with the top three preferences having thirty-two starts between them for a grand total of zero wins. We’ll side – albeit without confidence – with (4) YEONGGWANGUI SAVE, whose 3rd place at class and distance on June 6th, coupled with Perovic remaining aboard, puts him in this. He tends to get right back in his races, but he ran on well last time and if he doesn’t give himself too much to do, then he can win. (7) TOP MATE has finished 2nd on no fewer of six from ten starts so far. True a previous effort at this distance didn’t go well but there were excuses on a sloppy track, and he has otherwise been ultra-consistent. He may well start the betting favourite today. (5) NEWS MAKER has a 4th place at class and distance to his name and is another with claims to break his maiden today. He will be expected to be on pace and it’s not impossible that he could lead all the way. If you prefer winning experience, then (8) DUMUSAN is probably the way to go, having registered back-to-back wins over a mile in March and April, albeit at local class 6 level. He comes up in class but should hold his own against most of these.

Selections(4) Yeonggwangui Save (7) Top Mate (5) News Maker (8) Dumusan
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 6: Class 2 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

After nine months on the sidelines, (4) SUCCESS PARTY returned to action with a fine, though quite distance, 2nd place behind the excellent Golden Winner on May 29th. From a nice draw, he will be on pace or handy and can prove too strong late on. The logical second choice is (2) DAEMANGUI GIL, even if it is a touch surprising to see him drop back in trip after recent good work around two turns. He was an all the way winner over 1800M last start, and his front-running style surely won’t do him any harm from a good draw here. (6) YES PERFECT races for the first time since February but looked very well when storming through a trial just last week. So long as he didn’t leave his race there, then he should be in the frame. (5) HAWK KING comes in off a creditable 4th place behind Golden Winner last start and that is something he can aim to match here.

Selections(4) Success Party (2) Daemangui Gil (6) Yes Perfect (5) Hawk King
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8