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

Both Seoul (11 races from 10:35) and Busan (6 races from 11:50 to 16:35) host Sunday cards. Here are the previews:

Speed Young was last year’s Champion Juvenile (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

A small field of juvenile maidens with all but one having raced before. (5) ORAEDAHAMKKE ran 4th on debut in June before improving to a close 2nd on August 6th when racing handy throughout. Both of those races were over 1000M and the step up can suit and he looks the one to beat. (7) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG and (6) LEGENDSUN came home 3rd and 4th respectively with little between them when they raced one another at this distance on August 5th. For Seongsil Yeongung it was an improved performance at start number two while Legendsun was making his debut. Both look set for further improvement and can go close here. The solitary debut maker (1) MAGIC PLEASURE won his trial and while it was a very slow time, he did what he needed to. He can go well first up. (2) SINUI UNMYEONG another who can improve from his debut.

Selections(5) Oraedahamkke (7) Seongsil Yeongung (6) Legendsun (1) Magic Pleasure
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(8) BUTTER K has made steady progress across four starts so far, including a close 3rd place at this distance last time out on August 6th. In the process, he recorded the fastest time of any of these for the distance, and today can be his day. (2) PURPLE SHINHWA was behind Butter K in that race on August 6th, but he does have a runner-up finish to his name over this distance. He goes best on pace so he draws very nicely, and Moon Se-young’s presence will encourage plenty. (5) ONE SPEAR ran a fair 3rd over this distance on August 20th. He tends to get quite far back in his races, but he should be competitive here. The form drops off precipitously after those three with (4) GEOMOON and (7) CATS WOMAN perhaps the most likely of the rest to improve.

Selections(8) Butter K (2) Purple Shinhwa (5) One Spear (4) Geomoon
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Tricky maiden. (11) SSING SSING SSING enters having posted the fastest time among these for the distance when 4th on August 5th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. Third-up this preparation, he should be peaking fitness wise, and he can win. He does draw a touch wide though and that may open the door for (8) LUCKY HONEY. She was 5th in that August 5th race but that followed a 2nd and a 3rd in her previous two. She is another who will probably be a shorter price than she should be because of Moon Se-young being aboard, but she should go close. (1) WONPYEONG LIST was an improved 2nd at start number three on August 6th when racing on the pace for the first time. From a good draw, expect similar tactics today and she should be a big chance. (9) LAFEYETTE and (3) K N START the latter for whom it is a fresh start nine months after his debut, are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(11) Ssing Ssing Ssing (8) Lucky Honey (1) Wonpyeong List (9) Lafeyette
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start5, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (8) PURE DANCE gets the nod following an encouraging debut on July 30th when after a slightly sluggish start, she ran on pleasingly for 5th over 1000M. Like all those here racing for the second time, she should have derived benefit from the experience and the extended trip should be in her favour. (10) MY MELODY also ran 5th on her debut at 1000M on July 23rd, in her case having jumped well and settled on the speed. She faces the challenge of the wide draw here but should be showing some development. (3) TODAY QUEEN was an improved 2nd at start number three over 1200M on July 29th. She raced on pace that day and will be expected to do similar here with another place a strong possibility. (4) B.K. ZENA and (7) PERFECT ACTION others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Pure Dance (10) My Melody (3) Today Queen (4) B.K. Zena
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 10

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

(3) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK remains a maiden following seven attempts, but he looks set to be a hot favourite here. He got promoted to this level with back-to-back runner-up finishes in June and July and then ran a close 3rd on his first try at class 5 on August 6th when always racing handily over this distance. He draws well here and should prove too good. (2) FLYING CARAVANE comes up in class following a maiden win on debut over 1000M on July 23rd when settling midfield and running on. He comes down in the weights and can be measuring up in this company. (8) DALMAJI was 3rd at this class over 1300M on July 1st. The same apprentice claims 4kg once more and he can be competitive. (5) MR QUALITY and (6) WONDERFUL JOY others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Sidaeui Myeongjak (2) Flying Caravane (8) Dalmaji (5) Mr Quality
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden. We’ll take a chance on (3) DOCTOR LEO. He debuted at 1300M on August 11th and having settled back, he ran on promisingly for 2nd. The time wasn’t quick, but he looks to have plenty of potential for development; he should strip fitter for the run and the experience, and he can go one better. (12) FLYING DIA unseated her jockey as the gates opened on a scheduled start on August 18th and made her own way home. That would have been her first race since March when 2nd at 1300M and she was well-fancied having performed well in a trial. She will be well-fancied here too. (8) FIRE MAGIC started to run on far too late on debut over 1200M on July 29th. He should be better for the experience and the additional trip can suit. (4) MOST RAPID and (9) HANEUL BULPAE among other placing chances.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 2)

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

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (2) MIRACLE HANGANG, who comes in here for the third time having run 2nd and 3rd in his first two appearances, both at this distance and both times leading. He draws very nicely to get to the lead here and he should exit what has been an extremely lucrative class 6 for his connections as a winner. Having won a trial, (9) RAON THE FANTA was sent off as favourite on debut over his distance on August 5th. She raced handily throughout and ran on for 3rd. She should have derived benefit from the experience and with some natural improvement can go closer here. (4) GOLDEN LINE has raced twice before and has posted decent times, especially when 3rd on debut. He was well beaten by Miracle Hangang last time out but should be in the placing mix here. Among the debut makers (5) WATZUI YEOWANG and (6) CUPID MIR look the best at this stage.

Selections(2) Miracle Hangang (9) Raon The Fanta (4) Golden Line (5) Waltzui Yeowang
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with seven of the eleven racing for the first time. (5) GEUMAK JINJU will be hot favourite. She ran a strong 3rd on debut on July 22nd over this distance having been handy throughout. She won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (11) SINUI YEOJE debuted in the same race, finishing 5th having been on pace for much of the way around. She too should have benefitted for the experience and with some natural improvement can get closer today. (3) CHOEGANG TIME looks the best of the debut-makers. He was on pace in his trial, crossing the line 3rd in a fair time. If he can bring that form to the races, he won’t be far away. (4) GANGCHEOL DRAGON and (7) CHAMJOEUN JILJU other first-timers who could make an impression.

Selections(5) Geumak Jinju (11) Sinui Yeoje (3) Choegang Time (4) Gangcheol Dragon
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

A maiden for imports (northern hemisphere two-year-olds and southern hemisphere three-year-olds) and seven of the eleven are racing for the first time. The favourite is one of those with experience and that’s (2) PANORAMA KING. Having won a trial, he was the market leader on debut over this distance on August 5th but came home 3rd. He should have come on for the run and should win this. (11) UWARYUNG has raced twice, finishing 2nd and 3rd coming off the pace both times. She should be there or thereabouts again. (3) LUCKY HANUL raced fairly for 5th in her debut in July and she too can be getting closer with some natural improvement. Among the debut-makers, (9) EOSEOMAREULHAE is the standout, having made all in a trial in a quick time on August 18th alongside some experienced racehorses (it was a voluntary trial so be aware it may not appear in all race cards). If he brings that form to the races, a win isn’t out of the question. (5) HERO LEGEND has been through three trials and seems to be getting the hang of things.

Selections(2) Panorama King (11) Uwaryung (3) Lucky Hanul (9) Eoseomareulhae
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A very modest maiden. We’ll need to draw a line through his latest but (1) KING GO TAEYANG is probably the one to beat here. Last time out he drew the widest gate and while he used up plenty to get to a forward position, he didn’t have much left over 1300M. He comes into a much better gate today and going on his 2nd place at this distance two starts back, he has every chance. (5) MUNHAK CENTRAL has picked up a bit in her latest couple of appearances. She has run fair times and shouldn’t be far away here. (12) NAOL ROONEY has finished 4th in all three of her outings so far. She may need a touch of luck from the widest gate but if she can get on or close to the speed, she should be in this a long way.  (4) MISTER STAR and (7) NEMO SPIRIT others in the placing frame.

Selections(1) King Go Taeyang (5) Munhak Central (12) Naol Rooney (4) Mister Star
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 12

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and it is wide open. (4) CLASS HEEMANG has raced just the twice and there was more than a year between them. She ran well on her return on August 6th, sitting at the back of the field from a wide draw before running on well for 4th. She should strip fitter for that run and Moon Se-young climbing on will tempt plenty. (7) VELVETY has shown steady improvement across four starts so far with a 4th and a 3rd from her latest two, most recently at this distance on August 6th when she settled midfield and ran on. She draws nicely today to sit on pace or handy and with a bit more progression, she can win. (5) WONDERFUL FOX has been very consistent with five finishes between 3rd and 5th. She likes to settle back and has a good finish on her, and she should be aiming for a career best placing here. (1) MENI CHARM and (3) MENI SHARK the other placing chances.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 1)

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

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with ten of the twelve racing for the first time. The two that have raced already didn’t exactly pull up trees on their respective debuts, so we’ll go for the first timers. (4) TEAM PERFECT is the pick having run an on-pace 2nd in her trial, stopping the clock in a good time. If she brings that form to the races, she has every chance first-up here. (5) DAESUNG FLY won her trial in fine fashion running on pace and finishing well in a good time. Just like Team Perfect, if she brings that to the races, she won’t be far away. (12) GEUMA REJOICE ran 2nd in her trial in a fair time. The way she came from off the pace suggests the wide draw won’t be a problem and she is from a top stable. (10) CHRYSOL HERO has raced once and can improve while the amusingly named (11) WORLD THUNDER MAN is another debut maker who can put in a bold showing.

Selections(4) Team Perfect (5) Daesung Fly (12) Geuma Rejoice (10) Chrysol Hero
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A competitive maiden. (2) BRAVE CAPTAIN has progressed across five starts so far, and enters off back-to-back 2nd places, most recently over this distance on July 30th when settling midfield before improving to sit behind the speed and run on well. She draws well here, and today can be her day. (5) SPRIT FIGHTER races for just the second time. He raced handy throughout his debut over 1000M on August 11th, ultimately finishing in 4th place. He should have derived benefit from that run, the additional trip can suit, and he should be showing some improvement here. (1) HAERANG ISEUL has finished no worse than 4th in three starts so far, most recently in 3rd over this distance on July 2nd. She draws very nicely to be on pace here and should be close once more. (6) THE ONE and (8) HAEUNDAE STAR are others in the frame.

Selections(2) Brave Captain (5) Sprit Fighter (1) Haerang Iseul (6) The One
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Tricky maiden. Jockey Lee Sung-jae has been in good form of late and he could pick up another win here in the shape of (5) WONDERFUL ONE. He has a 3rd and a 4th from his latest two, racing handy both times and stopping the clock in good fashion. He won’t need to improve much to win here. The boldly named (11) NUMBERONEPICK did precisely nothing on debut being slowly away and continuing to be slow throughout. He has though been back to trial since then (it may not appear in all race cards, so beware), and looked much better, overcoming gate twelve to get on pace and ran very close in a good time. If he can translate that form to the races, then he is right in this. (3) MACH TURBO showed significant improvement when 3rd at start number three over this distance on July 29th and can maintain that momentum here. (7) JEONGMUN LEGEND needs a line drawn though his latest and along with (5) GREAT BOY, is another in the hunt.

Selections(5) Wonderful One (11) Numberonepick (3) Mach Turbo (7) Jeongmun Legend
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 9

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

Two standouts here. The Bart Rice and Seo Seung-un connection is enough to make us side with (3) JEONGMUN SPECTER. He remains a maiden after five starts but has four top-four finishes and while he last raced in April, he looked very well when winning a trial in a quick time on a good-rated track on August 19th. So long as he didn’t leave his race there – and he has had almost two weeks to recover – he looks a big chance here. The main danger is (4) CHARON TODAY. She comes up in class following a maiden win at start number two over this distance on July 29th. That was her first run since her nondescript debut last October and she should strip fitter for it. Expect her to be on pace and in this a long way. (9) HWARANG SKY has outperformed her odds in her latest two and under a light weight, warrants respect here. (8) DONGNAM WINNER and (7) DALEHOLRINGWANGDAE others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Jeongmun Specter (4) Charon Today (9) Hwarang Sky (8) Dongnam Winner
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6
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Rookie Stakes Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-by-Race Preview (August 27)

This year’s juveniles get their first opportunities to run for serious prizes on Sunday as both Seoul and Busan hold their “Rookie Stakes” races, the lead in to the Juvenile Series this autumn. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:40 to 17:00. Triple Tiara winner Jeulgeounyeojeong will also be in action in Busan’s Class 1 finale. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with three of the ten racing for the first time. There’s no clear favourite so we’ll go with (4) GREAT STORM at what could be a decent price. He overcame gate eleven to run a decent 4th on debut over 1000M on July 23rd, when settling just behind the speed and running on. The time wasn’t especially quick but the step up in trip can suit and he has as good a chance as any. (5) HWASANGWIHWAN won a May trail and then following an indifferent debut was an improved 5th of eleven over this distance on July 16th racing on pace. He looks nicely in here and should be a danger. (1) EUNPA SARANG was a fair 5th in debut in July and should have come on for the run. (7) YEOWANG SOCKS and first-time starter (2) WONDERFUL JET others in the frame.

Selections(4) Great Storm (5) Hwasangwihwan (1) Eunpa Sarang (7) Yeowang Socks
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

The stable has zero wins from 135 starters so far in 2023 but that really should change here with (4) NAOL SIDAE. He comes in off a much-improved 2nd place at start number two on June 10th when settling midfield and running on in a good time. He draws nicely and today should be his day. Should the unthinkable happen and the losing streak continue, it’s most likely to be at the hands of (2) JANGHEUNG CLASS. He enters having run 4th on July 22nd despite losing a lot of ground around the turn when resenting kickback and racing ungenerously. He’s been back to trial since then and with a more mature performance here, he can be a danger. (5) TESTA BLUE was a touch disappointing last time out but based on his 2nd place over this distance in early July is worth another chance here. Debut-maker (8) TOJONG GLORY along with (7) NEW POINT are other possibles for minor money.

Selections(4) Naol Sidae (2) Jangheung Class (5) Testa Blue (8) Tojong Glory
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener on the South Coast with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) HIT SOCKS debuted on July 30th over 1000M and beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to a strong 2nd in a quick time coming from off the pace. The way he finished off suggests that the additional furlong can only be in his favour, and he can win this. (3) OVER ENERGY debuted in the same race overcoming a wide draw to run on for 3rd, just half a length behind Hit Socks. He too should have come on for the run and can go close again. (11) GLOBAL TAEYANG was a quick 2nd over 1000M on her debut on July 21st. She showed a really good turn of foot late on and she is another who the extra trip should suit. (5) GEUMA PRECEDE and (9) ROAD STAR, who debuted together on July 23rd, are among others to consider.

Selections(4) Hit Socks (3) Over Energy (11) Global Taeyang (5) Geuma Precede
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

This is a competitive maiden. (7) SMART SOCKS just about gets the verdict having steadily gotten closer in her latest few culminating in 2nd place at this distance in a good time on August 5th when leading for most of the way around and she can go one better today. (10) BEAT RACER has been similarly knocking on the door in recent efforts which include a runner-up finish two starts back at this distance. Moon Se-young is engaged again, and the pair are sure to have plenty of backers. (12) NAOL JEONGSANG debuted on Christmas Day last year, running a decent 4th but then wasn’t seen again until a month ago. He should strip fitter for that comeback run and can be a factor here. (3) FLYING ZEST and (9) SMART CLAIR look to be the logical other placing hopes.

Selections(7) Smart Socks (10) Beat Racer (12) Naol Jeongsang (3) Flying Zest
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive race with two standouts.  Humbly named (7) THE BEST EVER enters off a smart runner-up finish at what was his fourth career start on July 30th when racing handy throughout. He is one of only two in the race to have tackled this distance before and he can use that experience to his advantage here. (2) CORNER ONE shapes as the danger. He’s finished 5th in both starts so far at 1000M and 1200M. He has finished off his races very smartly and the additional furlong should be exactly what he needs to get closer. (9) HOTFLEX raced twice last autumn without distinction but returned in July following nine months off and ran a good 2nd over 1200M. He should have derived benefit from that run and can be competitive here. (11) GRAY BOSS and (3) ANOTHER ONE are other ones to keep safe.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 26)

Seoul returns to a daytime schedule on Saturday with 10 races from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. The exposed form isn’t very good so we will side with debut-makers. (3) USEUNG CONCORD will be favourite. A half-brother to many winners, most notably the prolific Mirae Yeongung, he ran 2nd in a July trial, settling midfield and running on well. The time wasn’t quick, but he looked accomplished enough and with Moon Se-young up, he will be expected to win first-up here. (4) SEGWANG FIGHTER was similarly a close 2nd in his heat also having settled midfield from a wide gate. He won’t need to improve much on that to go close here. (1) GEUMSE posted a fair time in his heat and looks the best of the rest at this stage. (7) EUNPA PARTNER is another first-timer who hinted at ability in his trial while among the three who have raced already, (9) BAEDARI HYANGGI looks the most likely to improve.

Selections(3) Useung Concord (4) Segwang Fighter (1) Geumse (7) Eunpa Partner
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

The second division of the juvenile maiden although this half has just four of twelve racing for the first time. (1) RAON THE TAP ran 2nd on debut in a similar race at this distance on July 15th when he overcame gate eleven to run on well. He has a much better draw this time around and can be on pace this time and can win. That will mean overturning the form on (7) NAEGILUI WINNER, who ran 2nd in that July 15th race on what was also his debut. He led for much of the way around and will be aiming to do similar here. (5) JECHUK IHO ran close to Raon The Tap in a trial and then ran a good 2nd on debut in a quick time on July 23rd, racing on pace throughout. Like the others he should have derived benefit from that and shouldn’t be far away. Of the first timers, (8) LUCKY PARTY is the pick, having improved in the second of two trials in July. (6) SEOUL DOLPUNG, the only one to have raced twice, the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Raon The Tap (7) Naegilui Winner (5) Jechuk Iho (8) Lucky Party
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

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

Valuable maiden for imported juveniles (northern hemisphere) and three-year-olds (southern). We’ll take a chance on a couple of debut-makers in the shape of (11) UWANGRYUNG. The Tapwrit colt won a trial very handily at the beginning of the month leading all the way around and while the draw is a touch wider than ideal, if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (6) DREAM ISLE also goes around for the first time. He went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them on August 4th (which may not appear on all race cards as it wasn’t a mandatory trial). Moon Se-young’s presence aboard will ensure he is well backed and with some more improvement he can be a danger. As for those with experience, (2) POWER PALIYEONG showed not to rely too much on trial performances as he was the longest shot on the board on debut on July 22nd but defied that to finish a good 2nd over 1000M. He ran through the line well and the step up in trip may suit. (10) ENDING FIRE and (4) SINUI EREUM others who may improve.

Selections(11) Uwangryung (6) Dream Isle (2) Power Paliyeong (10) Ending Fire
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A weak maiden. (12) HAYAN TAEYANG improved to 4th at start number two all the way back in May. She hasn’t raced since but with Antonio climbing on, that’s enough for her to go on top here. She ran on in both her races so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can win. (8) DAMJAENGI ARGO has finished 4th or 5th in five of seven starts. She has posted fair times and she should be claiming a best to date finish here. (4) YONGBICHEON managed a 3rd place two starts back over this trip when racing handy. The same apprentice who rode her that day returns so she comes in carrying just 50kg and she should be in the hunt. (6) MENI WIN and (7) ARCH CLASS others to consider in a very modest affair.

Selections(12) Hayan Taeyang (8) Damjaengi Argo (4) Yongbicheon (6) Meni Win
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(11) WINNER DRAGON is the one to beat here. His best finish was two starts back when a close 2nd over 1200M having settled back and run on and he followed that up with a fair 5th over 1300M on August 6th. He steps up to 1400M for the first time and it could well be what he needs to make the breakthrough. (6) JECHUK ILHO has a 3rd place to his name over this trip and while he could only manage 7th on his most recent start, he did finish ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. In this limited field, he shapes as the main danger. (8) CHOEGANG NICE was one of those behind Jechuk Ilho last time out. He tends to get a bit far back in his races, but he has a good finish on him and if in striking range, he can pass plenty late one. (2) SAEBYEOK BULBIT and (9) YEJIMONG others in the minor money frame.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 25)

It’s back to daytime schedules from this week. Racing gets underway on Friday at Busan with 7 races from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Twelve unraced juveniles. (9) LAST DRAGON will be favourite having run 2nd in a trial in a quick time. He was on pace throughout and will be expected to lead and go all the way here. (8) DIA GRIT went through two trials, just scraping through the first in May but winning the second on July 22nd when she settled just behind the early leaders and ran on pleasingly. Like the other fillies, she gets a nice weight allowance here and can go well first-up. (2) STRIDING MAN wen through three trials and by the third of them in July, looked to be getting the hang of things, sitting handy and running on for 4th in a good time. From a nice draw he can do similar here. (7) STRIKE ZONE beat a couple of today’s rivals when winning a trial on July 15th. The time wasn’t quick, but he showed enough to suggest he has some ability. (4) HANEULPYEONGJEONG another who did well in trials.   

Selections(9) Last Dragon (8) Dia Grit (2) Striding Man (7) Strike Zone
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) AJANTA came from off the pace to run 5th in a decent time over 1000M on debut on July 21st. She should have come on for that run, the additional furlong can suit, and she has winning claims here. The main danger is (1) KING FIGHTER. He’s raced twice before, improving in the second of them on July 30th when leading for much of the way around over today’s trip and ultimately coming home a close 4th. From a good draw, he should be on pace again and once more in it a long way. (7) AMBITIOUS GIRL debuted in the same race as Ajanta, coming home in 5th place, just half a length behind the selection. She too should have derived benefit from the experience and can make more progress. Debut-maker (10) DOCTOR LICA trialled up well and along with (8) DREAM WAY is another to consider.

Selections(2) Ajanta (1) King Fighter (7) Ambitious Girl (10) Doctor Lica
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) DREAM RUN will be a warm favourite. Her recent form has been consistent, and he has shown aptitude for a mile with a 2nd and a 3rd in her latest two, most recently on July 30th when close to the pace throughout and beating a few of today’s rivals. A similar run here should see her win. (4) WITH STAR also beat a few of these when 3rd over 1400M on July 30th. That continued a pattern of improvement and while she was beaten by Dream Run two starts back, she should go close. (12) DOCTOR WICKY has mixed his form so far but the step up in trip can suit. Despite the wide draw he can be expected to be on the pace, and he may make for some interest at an each-way price. (11) RUN TO KING and (7) STORMY DAY are among others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Dream Run (4) With Star (12) Doctor Wicky (11) Run To King
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 10, 12

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

(11) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT is yet to score in sixteen attempts but has no fewer than six top-three finishes. He comes in off a 3rd and a 4th in his latest two, both at this distance and both in decent times. He has a strong finish so the wide draw shouldn’t be too much of a problem, and today can be his day. (1) MOTHER MOUNTAIN has won before at class 6 level, and she looks to be working back towards another win. She comes in off a smart 2nd place at class and distance on July 29th when she overcame the widest gate to sit behind the speed. She comes into a much better gate here and under a light weight, she can win. (6) BLUE CAPTAIN enters with recent form reading very pleasingly, with two 3rds and a 4th from his latest three. He can sit behind the speed here and should be involved at the business end. (4) TWO TWO LIME and (9) ILGANG DAERO among others to consider.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 20)

There are Sunday daytime cards at Seoul (10 races from 11:35 to 19:00) and Busan (7 races from 12:40 to 18:00). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener although all but one has raced at least once before. (11) THE PLAYER has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M both times leading almost until the end. He draws a touch wider than ideal but should have enough about him early to get to the front, and it can be third time lucky here. It’s clear what type of distance the Raon group believe (2) RAON THE SPRINTER will excel at. Indeed, he showed plenty of speed on debut when 3rd over 1000M. He should have come on for that run and from a good gate can challenge for the lead and be in this a long way. (4) JANGGUN GARAM has raced twice, improving at start number two when 2nd over 1000M. He ran through the line well both times and the slight step up in trip can suit. (10) SMART CAT and (8) WONDERFUL PAGO among other sin the hunt.

Selections(11) The Player (2) Raon The Sprinter (4) Janggun Garam (10) Smart Cat
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(1) STEALTH PARK may have run ordinarily on two of three occasions but sandwiched in the middle was a very solid 3rd place at this distance when he settled back and then ran on in a time quicker than any of the others here have achieved. He draws well, Moon Se-young stays up, and he could win this modest affair. (4) BULGEUN POKPUNG enters off a strong 2nd place at this distance when running on strongly. That was back in May so he has had almost three months off since, and coming in fresh, he can be a danger. (5) NAEGILUI CAPTAIN has, like Stealth Park, mixed his form so far with a 2nd and a 6th, both over 1200M. He can be expected to be on pace here and should go close. (9) HAENGBOK YEOWANG and (6) VET CAPTAIN other potential improvers.

Selections(1) Stealth Park (4) Bulgeun Pokpung (5) Naegilui Captain (9) Haengbok Yeowang
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies here. (6) WORLD FIRST CAT beat a couple of these with a front-running showing on debut on July 21st that ultimately ended in 3rd place. Like all here, she should have come on for that first experience and could well lead all the way here. (1) DAMOA debuted on June 23rd over 1000M, settling behind the speed before running on well for 4th. From the inside gate she can drop in behind the lead again and they extended trip can suit with Franco climbing aboard only to her benefit too. (9) WHITE FALCON has races twice already with a 3rd and a 4th to her name, the latter behind World First Cat. She has been doing her best work late so the step up in distance may well be to her benefit. (8) POCKET MILLION and (5) QUEEN AND SERVE others with the potential to improve.

Selections(6) World First Cat (1) Damoa (9) White Falcon (8) Pocket Million
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(11) ZETTA MASTER is the pick here. He comes in having run 2nd over this distance on July 23rd when getting forward to sit handy from a wide gate, He draws a touch wider than ideal again but should have enough about him to get a forward position and third-up this preparation, he may be peaking fitness wise. (5) SAVANA CHARLIE is the maiden danger. He came home in 3rd place in that July 23rd race having settled back and run on well. Although yet to break the top-two, he has finished between 3rd and 5th on no fewer than eight occasions and he should be aiming to crack the quinella here. (7) ONE SPEAR has been slow away in his latest couple, but he does have a runner-up finish to his name as recently as July 1st and that’s enough to p him in the placing mix in this company. (1) SAEROUN BITKKAL and (10) GREEN BULPAE others in the minor money hunt. 

Selections(11) Zetta Master (5) Savana Charlie (7) One Spear (1) Saeroun Bitkkal
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(10) YONG GUN gets the nod here. He enters off a career-to-date best of 2nd over 1300M on July 29th when racing on pace throughout. He comes up to 1400M for the first time but there is no reason why it can’t suit, and he should be able to find a forward position again. (8) SUCCESS FLYING has raced just once, all the way back in January. He re-appeared, freshly gelded, in July and won a trial in a quick time, practically making all. He can be considered first-up here. (1) SHINE MONSTER enters off a runner-up finish over this distance on July 14th when coming from off the pace. She was well-beaten by a good winner, but a similar performance will see her in the money here. (11) TOO CUTE GIRL and (2) LUCKY BAND among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(10) Yong Gun (8) Success Flying (1) Shine Monster (11) Too Cute Girl
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start4, 8, 10, 11

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

(3) PURPLE WORLD comes up in class having followed up a 2nd place on debut with a win over 1200M on July 1st when he made all and won by as many as he pleased. He also comes up in distance slightly, but the manner of that victory suggests there is more to come, and he can win again here. (5) GANGPUNGMA is similarly up in class following a maiden win at start number two over 1200M on July 22nd when coming from off the pace. The margin of victory was slightly less eye-catching than that of Purple World, but he did what he needed to do well enough, and he can measure up here. (1) CHEONGGYE GISANG finally draws a good gate for the first time in a long time. That should allow him to get a much easier run to the front than in recent starts and he can improve. (2) LADY TAEPUNG and (7) HAENGBOKAN MUNMAK among others to consider.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 19)

There are 10 races on the afternoon/evening program at Seoul on Saturday, running from 14:45 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

It’s the final evening card of the summer on Saturday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all eleven making their racecourse debuts. (11) BRAVO PLAY was a trial winner in a fair time back in June when handy throughout and running on well. It has taken him a couple of months to get to the races and he does have the challenge of the wide draw, but he has as good a chance as any. (9) CHADOL DIA ran an on-pace 3rd in a competitive trial in a good time on a wet track in July. She too will be on pace and shapes as one of the leading contenders. (8) WONPYEONG GANGJA made all to win his trial on July 21st. Although the time was a little slower than the other two, he did everything asked of him and with some natural improvement, he can be dangerous. (6) CHEONMA BULPAE and (1) CLAIR GOLD others who hinted at ability when qualifying.

Selections(11) Bravo Play (9) Chadol Dia (8) Wonpyeong Gangja (6) Cheonma Bulpae
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

(6) HAENGBOKAN SEUNGJA ran 2nd on debut over 1000M on July 22nd, well beaten by a good winner but coming from well off the pace and running through the line well. She should have derived benefit from the experience and the slight step up in trip should suit. She will be a warm favourite. (2) TAEPYEONG HERO was an encouraging 3rd on his debut on July 23rd when settling midfield and running on. With some natural improvement here, he should be matching or bettering that finish. Similarly (11) SEOCHEON LION was a close 5th on his first start on July 1st. He has the challenge of the widest gate but showed enough potential to suggest he can get close in this company. Those three will be at the top of most tickets with (3) MONEY TOUCH and (9) GOLDEN DRAGON others with the potential to improve.

Selections(6) Haengbokan Seungja (2) Taepyeong Hero (11) Seocheon Lion (3) Money Touch
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden. (2) MADE STAR was a beaten favourite when 6th over this distance on August 5th when, as is her style, she settled right back but just didn’t manage to pass as many as hoped for. At her previous start in July, she ran a strong 2nd again at this distance and with Antonio climbing aboard today, she can be given another chance. (10) SMART TAEYANG ran an improved 2nd on his attest appearance on July 16th when racing midfield and finishing off well. His times haven’t been fast, but he looks to be on the right trajectory, and he can go close again. (1) DIVINE PYEONGHWA was 3rd behind Made Star in July and returns here for the first time since. She draws nicely and can build on that result. (11) DAONDI and (8) BRIGHT WINNER are others with the potential to improve.

Selections(2) Made Star (10) Smart Taeyang (1) Divine Pyeonghwa (11) Daondi
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

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

(7) CHOEGO POINT is yet to win in thirteen attempts, but he has come close on plenty of occasions including his latest on July 23rd when he settled midfield and ran on for 2nd place in a quick race at class and distance. Under today’s handicap conditions, he comes down slightly in the weights and it could be his day. (1) BULUI NALGAE was a close 3rd in that July 23rd race, having gone right back and then run on. That was his first try around two turns and he should have derived benefit from it and can be in the hunt here. (3) DEVIL K enters off back-to-back 2nd place finishes at class and distance. He can be on or close to the pace here and can be in this a long way once more. (9) THUNDER PRINCE has a win over this distance at class 6 level and along with the experienced (2) GREEN FEELSTAR is another in the pacing frame at least. 

Selections(7) Choego Point (1) Bului Nalgae (3) Devil K (9) Thunder Prince
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 11

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

Wide open race. (6) YONGBI POWER was a somewhat unexpected winner on debut over 1000M on July 15th when settling back and working through the line well. She is up in class and in distance here but with some natural improvement from that effort, she can maintain her 100% record. (8) JAEWOO SIDAE remains a maiden but comes in off two smart 3rd place finishes, both at this class and distance and in good times. She is another who settles back before finishing strongly and today could be her day. (1) BAEKDU MEOTJAENGI returned from eight months off to get his maiden win over this distance on July 8th, making all. She comes up in class here but should strip fitter for that run and from a good draw, she can be on pace. (2) ICE CREAM and (3) DOLBAE among plenty of others with minor money claims.

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

It’s the final weekend of twilight/evening racing and the action gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 7-race program from 15:40 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but two racing for the first time. We’ll side with the experience, in particular, (1) DOCTOR RICH. He led for much of the way around on debut over 1000M on July 7th, ultimately coming home in 2nd place in a quick time. He should have come on for that run, he can be on pace again, and this time can go all the way. (4) CONTROLLER ran a solid 3rd on his debut on July 14th, settling handy and running on over the 1000M in a good time. He too should improve and the step up in trip can suit. As for the first timers, (10) FLYING KHAN produced the pick of the trial performances, while (5) ARION KING and (2) SUCCESS BAEKPA also posted good times and can go well first-up.

Selections(1) Doctor Rich (4) Controller (10) Flying Khan (5) Arion King
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Competitive maiden with two standouts. (7) DOCTOR KANE ran 2nd on debut over 1000M in June before following up with a 3rd place at this distance on July 14th when leading for much of the way and beating plenty of today’s rivals. She has been back to trial since then and with a more mature performance, she can be the one to beat today. The main danger is (1) BORIS MARINE. He too has raced twice, improving to a close runner-up finish at start number two on July 7th. He can settle back and run on here and should pose a danger in the closing stages. (3) JJARITHANISUNGAN debuted all the way back last December, racing fairly, but hasn’t been seen since. He came back to trial in June and showed some ability so can be given a chance first up here. (10) HAERANG YOUNGUNG and (2) MAGIC ELEVEN others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Doctor Kane (1) Boris Marine (3) Jjarithanisungan (10) Haerang Youngung
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(4) BEOMHAN GOLD shapes as a warm favourite here. After debuting in February, he didn’t reappear until July 23rd when he was a very close 2nd over this distance, having led for much of the way. He should strip fitter for that run and from a good gate he can lead again and has every chance of making all. (2) VELOCIRAPTOR is yet to finish in the top-two in thirteen attempts, but she has had planet of near misses including a useful 5th last time over this distance. She tends to get a bit far back in her races, but she does finish strongly, and she can run into at least the placings here. (3) FLYING DIA races for the first time since a good 2nd over this distance in March when leading for much of the way. She looked well in a trial at the end of July and can be a danger first-up here. (5) LEMON BULPAE and (10) CHOICE ROAD others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(4) Beomhan Gold (2) Velociraptor (3) Flying Dia (5) Lemon Bulpae
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 11

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

(1) PISTOL STAR found himself a little overmatched when sent up to Seoul for a spin around in the Minister’s Cup, the final leg of the Triple Crown on July 22nd. At the start before though he was a good winner over this distance at class 4 level and under a light weight and from a good gate, he can return to winning ways here. (8) MAN OF THE MAN comes up in trip having run a good 2nd over a mile at this level on July 16th. Tactically versatile, he is lightly raced and should still have some improvement in him. (7) EUNSEONG WINNER was one of plenty here who raced one another at class and distance on July 7th. She ran 4th that day having got a long way back and can be expected to be a bit closer today. (2) ALL CROWN and (4) HWANGU FIHGTER others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Pistol Star (8) Man Of The Man (7) Eunseong Winner (2) All Crown
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

(7) SUCCESS MOCCA raced four times around the turn of the year and showed ability, winning over this distance at class 6 level. He returns to action here for the first time since March and looked very well when winning a July trial. He should be on pace here and can go all the way. Another one returning from an absence is (10) FAST FURY. She registered three consecutive 4th place finishes at this level up until April and she too looked very well when winning a trial in double quick time in late July. She races best on pace so may need a touch of early luck from a wide draw, but she has every chance of going close. (6) ACE A MOCA comes up in class following a smart win over this distance on July 30th. She comes down slightly in the weights and can measure up in this company. (8) TITAN K and (4) UNJU GLOBAL others in the frame.

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

There are daytime cards at both Seoul (10 races from 11:35 to 19:00) and Busan (7 races from 12:40 to 18:00). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with a debut maker, and it wasn’t so much the time but the way (5) SPEED ONE completed his heat that puts him on top. Coming out of gate nine he sat handy and then ran on under a hold getting better with every stride. If he can show that kind of maturity at the races and when asked for an effort, he can win. (6) KNIGHT CHARM was asked for more in his trial in dreadful conditions in July. He responded nicely and ran on to cross the line with plenty in hand. He too can be considered first-up. Experience can count for plenty though. (9) MIRAE TOWER came from off the pace to run on for 4th over this distance on July 15th. He should have come on for that and with a better start can get closer today. (1) NICE TAEYANG and (8) HAMPYEONG JANGMI the other pair who can improve on their respective debuts.

Selections(5) Speed One (6) Knight Charm (9) Mirae Tower (1) Nice Taeyang
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(4) MOON DUST looks to be finally getting things together with a pair of 3rd place finishes from her latest two, both at this distance and both times racing on pace. She draws nicely to get an easy early run here and she will be the one the need to beat. It’s not a strong race and that means we can give the solitary newcomer, (6) DAERYUN BULPAE, a chance. He trialled up a few times as a juvenile but never came anywhere close to qualifying before being put away for several months. He came back into training in June and looked much more assured when running 3rd in a fair time in a July trial. Don’t rule out a bold showing first-up. (8) FINE DAY has a 3rd and a 4th among her five efforts so far and should be in the mix here. (7) JEONGSANG HIT and (10) BINNANEUN GEUMSEONG among others who can compete for the money in this modest contest.

Selections(4) Moon Dust (6) Daeryun Bulpae (8) Fine Day (7) Jeongsang Hit
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) GEUMA DISTINCTION will be a warm favourite. The Kim Young-kwan trainee went through two trials, crossing the line 3rd in both, both in quick times. He can settle just off the pace here and if he brings the trial form to the races, he will be hard to beat. (5) SINCHEON FIRST won a June trial before racing on pace in debut on July 7th and ultimately running 4th in a good time over this distance. He should have benefited for the experience and can go closer here. Returning to the first-timers, (2) HWANGGEUMSEONG led every step of the way to win his trial in a good time on a wet track. He draws nicely, Seo Seung-un partners, and there is plenty to like about him. (1) CHRIS MORE and (7) LIGHT BROWN others who could put in a bold showing first-up.

Selections(9) Geuma Distinction (5) Sincheon First (2) Hwanggeumseong (1) Chris More
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A weak but very tricky race to predict. We’ll take a chance on (2) GOLDEN SNIPER, who ran 2nd two starts back over this trip, settling handy and nearly getting there. He followed up with a 5th place on his latest appearance on July 9th when on pace throughout and from a good gate, today could be his day. (8) POWERFUL VISION ran an improved 5th at start number two over 1300M when on pace throughout. She can be expected to show at the front early again and should once more be in this a long way. (5) SHARP SUNSHINE has shown signs of figuring things out, finishing in the top four in each of her latest four appearances. Her times haven’t been quick, but she finishes off her races well and can grind out another decent placing here. (7) SINUI HAMSEONG and (4) BEST PLAN, others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(2) Golden Sniper (8) Powerful Vision (5) Sharp Sunshine (7) Sinui Hamseong
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(9) WONDERFUL ONE has shown improvement across three starts so far, culminating in 3rd place over this distance on July 9th when handy throughout and beating a couple of today’s rivals. Without an apprentice claim today, he does come up 3kg in the weights, but that’s balanced by Franco climbing aboard, and he can win. (7) YONGSAN KEUNBYEOL was 4th in that July 9th race, continuing a positive start to his career. He has almost two-lengths to find on Wonderful One, but he gets a weight swing and should be challenging the favourite for the lead from the start. (1) WONDERFUL SMARTY is a thirty-six-race maiden but comes in following her first ever second-place finish over this distance on June 16th. She is another who doesn’t have an apprentice claim this time, but she has a good draw, and a repeat of that run will put her in the finish. (6) BLUE CAVIAR and (5) HANEUL BULPAE other placing chances.

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