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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Busan Friday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 29)

With no Jeju ponies this weekend, there is a bumper 14-race card at Busan this Friday running from 14:10 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

It’s a big Friday at Busan

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

Juvenile maidens to begin with and all but two are racing for the very first time. Experience does tend to count for plenty in these types of races though so those two, who both ran well on debut, will be the favourites. (10) MAGIC CLASS was on pace throughout her debut on June 24th, ultimately finishing in 4th. The time was assisted by a wet track but it was fast and she won’t need to improve much to go close here. (6) ILGANG DAERO ran 3rd on his debut on July 3rd, settling midfield and running on well. He should have come on for the run and has every chance. Of the first-timers, (2) SOLEDAD looks the best. She led in her trial, ultimately crossing the line in the same time as the “winner”. She draws nicely here to be on pace and can be in this a long way. (7) HAENGBOKHAN GIL was a trial winner in June and along with (4) JEOLDAE BOSS, is another first-timer of note.

Selections(10) Magic Class (6) Ilgang Daero (2) Soledad (7) Haengbokhan Gil
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

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

Maiden fillies here with three of the eleven making their racecourse debuts. (2) WIDEAHAN HAMAN is the pick. After winning a May trial, she led on debut over this distance on June 10th, ultimately finishing 2nd with a couple of today’s rivals behind here. She should have come on for that run and with a little natural improvement, looks the one to beat. (7) WONDERFUL OCEAN improved to 2nd at start number two on June 17th when handy throughout. She draws fairly enough to get on the pace again and can go close. (3) AREUMDAUN INYEON is the pick of the first-timers. She went through two trials, improving in the second of them when from gate eight she settled close to the speed and ran 2nd in a good time. She won’t need to improve much on that to go close first-up. (10) SEOGWI CHUKJE and (8) GOLDEN RACER others to keep an eye on.

Selections(2) Widaehan Haman (7) Wonderful Ocean (3) Areumdaun Inyeon (10) Seogwi Chukje
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 7

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

(9) THUNDER CLOUD has demonstrated good progress across six starts to date, culminating on July 1st when after a slow start, she ran on really well for 2nd – a long way behind a good winner over this distance. The time before she was a close 5th over 1400M. Today’s distance should suit and she looks ready to win. (1) GOLDEN POINT has run fairly so far with a 4th and a 5th from his latest two. He draws well on the inside to get on or close to the speed and should be aiming for a career-best finish here. (7) BOOMY STAR hinted that he may finally be figuring things out with a good 4th at this distance last time out. You Hyun-myung remains aboard and he can match or better that here. (11) FLEX SHINHWA and (2) TITAN K among several others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Thunder Cloud (1) Golden Point (7) Boomy Star (11) Flex Shinhwa
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

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

(7) RUNNING WARRIOR is just about favoured here. She has been consistent across her recent starts with two 3rd place finishes and a 4th. She stepped up to 1400M on her latest outing on July 1st and was sent off as favourite. She could only manage 3rd place but should have benefitted from the experience and with an apprentice jockey taking significant weight off, she can win here. (8) GOLD SWEET has also been consistent with four top-four finishes from six starts to date. She comes up to this trip for the first time and it may suit. Apprentice jockey Lee Hong-rag gets his first ever race ride on (6) AGAIN HELEN and it’s not an impossible task. He (Again Helen is a gelding) has a 2nd place to his name at this distance and looks nicely in here. (2) MILK DAY and (3) YEONSEUNG GLORY among others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Running Warrior (8) Gold Sweet (6) Again Helen (2) Milk Day
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

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

(2) MAGIC WHISPER made all to win over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before coming from a wide gate to run 2nd, again over this trip, on his first try at class 5 on June 26th. He comes into a better gate today and with an apprentice bringing the weight down, he is the one to beat. (1) GREAT GO remains a maiden after twenty0five races but has plenty of experience in picking up a cheque, with no fewer than sixteen top-five finishes. From a nice draw on the inside, he can sit behind the early speed and run on strong. (5) MAHAMERU comes up in class following a win over 1200M on June 19th when she settled midfield and then proved too strong. She comes up in distance too but neither should be a problem and she can measure up here. (11) WIND WINNER won at class 6 level over 1300M on June 5th and he too can be competitive in this company, while (10) SPECIAL TOGETHER did similar and should be in the hunt for a money finish too.

Selections(2) Magic Whisper (1) Great Go (5) Mahameru (11) Wind Winner
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

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

It’s hard to look too far past (3) GLOBAL HIT here. Having won a trial earlier in the month, he debuted on June 24th over 1000M and sat handy throughout the early stages and running on to take a narrow win in a fast time. He is up in both class and distance today but should be equal to both and he can maintain his 100% record. (7) BURNING PASSION won over this distance at class 6 level three starts back. She led on her latest outing on June 3rd, finishing 4th, and she should be on pace and a danger here. (8) FLYING REGAL comes up in class after winning at this distance back on April 17th. He has had fifteen weeks off since but at his best, he can be competitive here. (6) OCEAN STORM and (10) QUALITY QUEEN others who can enter the calculations.

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Raon The Fighter Lands Emphatic Knockout In Owners’ Cup

Raon The Fighter roared back into the winner’s circle at Busan Racecourse on Sunday afternoon, running his rivals off their feet for a statement victory in the Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3).

Raon The Fighter was the easy winner of the Owners’ Cup (Pic: KRA)

On his thirteenth career start, Raon The Fighter was sent off at a price greater than even-money for just the third time ever. That came off the back of two shock defeats in the Sprint Series, as he finished 2nd in both the Busan Ilbo Cup and SROA Chairman’s Cup in April and May. He was luckless both times both times, but those setbacks were enough for punters to be wary and also for connections to replace regular jockey Lee Hyeok with Moon Se-young.

From a good draw and on a hot and humid afternoon in Busan, Raon The Fighter turned the race into a procession. This time there was no stumble at the start, as there was in the Busan Ilbo. Nor was there a bump with Black Musk and then a speed duel with Hit Yegam happened in the SROA.  Instead, Raon The Fighter got a clean break and an easy lead as You Hyun-myung opted to take a sit on Hit Yegam.

Hit Yegam and Simjangui Godong were still within a length at the top of the home straight, but once Moon Se-young let his mount off the bridle and asked for an acceleration, Raon The Fighter’s response was instant. Moon was able to stop riding fifty metres from the line and ease home for a four-length triumph, stopping the clock just eight-seconds outside Blue Chipper’s track record, set in this race in 2019.  

Behind Raon The Fighter, King Of The Match closed significantly faster than anything else, but he couldn’t get past the ever game Simjangui Godong, the pair dead-heating for 2nd place, a full seven-lengths clear of Daemangui Gil in 4th.

Disappointments of the race were SROA winner Black Musk, who was 7th and especially Success Macho, who having suffered his first ever defeat in this race last year, was never a factor and only beat home one.

Raon The Fighter could very easily be thirteen for thirteen and closing in on Mister Park’s all time. It remains true though that he has only been beaten by Eoma Eoma and Black Musk and in mitigating circumstances.

His next outing will surely be in either the Korea Cup (1800M G3) or the Korea Sprint (1200M G3), the two international races at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday September 4th and one of the most exciting things about Raon The Fighter is we still have no idea what his best distance is. Nominations have been received from several countries for both international races, including Asian powerhouses Japan and Hong Kong, as well as from Europe. Whichever race he opts for, Raon The Fighter could very well offer the visitors a stern examination. Both King Of The Match (Korea Cup), an intriguing talent who like Raon The Fighter, is still only four-years-old, and Simjangui Godong (either Korea Cup or Korea Sprint) are likely to be involved on international day too.

Raon The Fighter is by Bayern and out of the Empire Maker mare Clarinda. He was imported in-utero although Bayern himself is now in Korea too, standing at Great Hill Farm on Jeju Island.

The Owner’s Cup marks the final Stakes race of the first part of the season. The tracks (including the Jeju Pony Racecourse) now take it in turns to take a week off. Jeju goes on vacation first meaning next week Busan goes solo on Friday, Busan and Seoul race on Saturday, and Seoul has a standalone meeting next Sunday. The next Graded races in Korea are the International Korea Cup (1800M G3) and Korean Sprint (1200M G3) at Seoul on Sunday September 4th.