Busan

Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 10)

With Seoul taking its one week summer break, Busan flies solo on both Saturday and Sunday. Saturday sees a 9-race card from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) ROAD TO FIGHTER ran a close 3rd in debut on July 5th in a quick race over 1000M. He should have come on for that experience, the additional furlong can suit, and he can be the one to beat here. (6) GRAND DREAM beat Road To Fighter when winning a June trial before acquitting himself solidly on debut on June 21st when 3rd over this distance. It wasn’t a fast race but with some natural improvement here, he is the main danger. (3) STORM GRIT didn’t do much on debut but has since registered a very close 2nd and a slightly more distance 3rd in two subsequent efforts. He has the fastest time among the four of these who have attempted this distance already and he should be in the mix again. The form drops off after those three with (8) TRIPLE J and (4) FAT BOY the other placing chances.

Selections(5) Road To Fighter (6) Grand Dream (3) Storm Grit (8) Triple J
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Small but competitive field with a few of them looking ready to win. (7) NEW LEADER has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1400M in a filly-only maiden on July 19th. In this company, she should be on pace, Munro climbs on, and she can go one better. (2) LASER GRIT and (4) B.K. MARON came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at this distance on July 7th. Both had been on an upward trajectory leading up to that and both can be in the mix again. (3) SKY ARCH was 4th in that same race having been ridden a bit further forward than in previous outings. She can be in this a long way too. (1) PINOT POWER the best of the rest.

Selections(7) New Leader (2) Laser Grit (4) B.K. Maron (3) Sky Arch
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(6) BEOLMAUI ACE debuted without distinction last November but didn’t re-appear until this June when running 2nd over 1200M. He then got his maiden win at start number three over 1300M on July 12th, racing on pace. He comes up in class and slightly in trip but third-up he can be peaking fitness wise, and he can win again. (4) UNJU GUY ran 2nd on debut in June before getting his maiden win at start number wo when stepped up to this distance n July 14th, showing on pace throughout. He too comes up in class but is in under a light weight and can measure up. (8) NEOM CITY is still winless but comes up in class having run 2nd to Unju Guy in that July 14th race. She comes down in the weights and can be competitive. (7) CAPTAIN EVERYTHING and (3) BEST BOY others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Beolmaui Ace (4) Unju Guy (8) Neom City (7) Captain Everything
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(4) GOAT KING IJI is yet to win in six starts but enters having overcome a wide draw to run a fair 5th on his first try at this class over 1800M on July 19th. He comes back to the distance at which he recorded his two best finishes and under a light weight and from a good gate, he can make the breakthrough here. (5) MORO made the breakthrough at the twenty-fourth time of asking at this class and distance on July 5th. He only comes up 1kg in the weights and lightning could strike twice. (2) SUPER CRACK and (1) HWARANG ACE come in having run 2nd and 4th respectively when racing one another at this class and distance on July 7th. The former is a non-winner, and the latter has won just the once, but both can be in the placing mix. (8) YEONSEUNG BRAVO another to consider for the minors.

Selections(4) Goat King Iji (5) Moro (2) Super Crack (1) Hwarang Ace
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 8

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

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Saturday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 3)

With no Jeju this week, there is a rare Saturday card at Busan (Busan will be off on Sunday) joining the regular Seoul Saturday program. There are 9 races in Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 in Busan from 11:35 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll side with a debut-maker. (9) GLOBAL TIME took two goes to qualify but looked well in the second of them when coming from off the pace for a close 2nd in a quick time. The 1200M should suit first up and Moon Se-young being booked catches the eye. Seo Seung-un is in town to ride Jeulgeounyeojeong in the KRA Cup Classic on Sunday and he picks up a live chance with (3) CHEONGONGUI SEOM. He beat two of the other experienced ones here when they debuted together over 1000M in a very quick race on July 6th. He came from off the pace, so the extra furlong can be in his favour, and he is the danger. (6) LONG RUN BULPAE finished 7th in that same race and can improve. (4) FUNNY TAP and (5) EODIGADO are other first-timers who hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(9) Global Time (3) Cheongongui Seom (6) Long Run Bulpae (4) Funny Tap
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

A couple of standouts here. (8) RAON THE KLAMMER has been getting closer across his latest few starts culminating with a 3rd and most recently a 2nd, from his latest two. That runner-up finish case over this distance on July 7th when he led for most of the way, ultimately getting passed by the favourite late on. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and today can be his day. (9) GEUMSEONG POWER enters off a best to date 2nd place over 1200M on June 30th when settling midfield and running on. He too has seemingly started to figure things out over his latest few and he is the man danger by some margin. (7) YEONGWON FANTASTIC has only raced twice and managed a 4th on debut before running 6th from a wide draw at 1400M at start number two. He can be closer here. (1) JILPUNG JAZZ and (3) GROUPER others in the hunt.

Selections(8) Raon The Klammer (9) Geumseong Power (7) Yeongwon Fantastic (1) Jilpung Jazz
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and with two 3rd places and a 4th from three starts so far, (4) GUKDAE MIRACLE will start as a warm favourite. All three of those outings were in similar filly maidens over 1200M and stepping up slightly in trip for the first time, she can be expected to be on pace and is the one to beat. (3) HAEUNDAE SUNSHINE managed three top-four finishes from four starts before a layoff. She returns here for the first time since March and having trialled up fairly and drawn well, she can be considered to go close. (2) RUNNING FASHION also comes in off a layoff having not run since April. She has a 3rd and a 2nd among her latest four and can be in the mix here. (10) HEUIMANG YEOSIN and (5) MOTHER WONDERFUL others in the frame.

Selections(4) Gukdae Miracle (3) Haeundae Sunshine (2) Running Fashion (10) Heuimang Yeosin
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and (1) SKY TEN has been getting closer across her latest few, culminating in a 2nd place on July 6th over 1200M when coming from ff the pace and beating a few of today’s rivals. She comes into a much better gate today and will be warmly favoured to go one better. (5) DIVA FESTIVAL was slowly away on debut on July 14th. She put in a super final furlong time and while it was only good enough to get her up into 7th place, with a better start and here, she could be dangerous late. (10) MERIT SUNSHINE has been showing steady improvement over four starts so far and can improve on her latest 4th. (2) SINUI BLUE and (3) YONGBICHEON among others who can be in the mix.

Selections(1) Sky Ten (5) Diva Festival (10) Merit Sunshine (2) Sinui Blue
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 8, 10, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 2)

With the Jeju Ponies taking the weekend off, it’s a bumper feast of thoroughbred racing across three days at Seoul and Busan – 43 races across the two tracks. The action starts at Busan on Friday with 14 races from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

You Hyun-myung is back in action at Busan this weekend (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all ten racing for the first time. (1) WINNERS ROOKIE is a “full sister to Korea Cup and Grand Prix Stakes winner Winner’s Man and looked well when 3rd in a June trial, coming from off the pace. She was a long way behind the experienced winner but ran on well and from the inside gate can put in a bold showing first up. (2) UNION CHAMP recorded the fastest trial time among these when handy and running on. She too draws nicely and should be in the mix. (4) DOCTOR HAPPY was much improved on her second trial, showing on pace and running on well. She too has as good a chance as any. (9) GREAT MARU and (6) KYUNGNAM DRAGON are others who hinted at ability, and this could be an interesting race.

Selections(1) Winners Rookie (2) Union Champ (4) Doctor Happy (9) Great Maru
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the eight racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience and (2) WINNER CLEAR, who ran a close 3rd in a fair time on debut over this distance on June 28th having come from off the pace. He should have come on for that run and will be favoured to come out on top here. Having won a trial, (5) LIME TREE was sent off as favourite on debut over 1000M on July 5th, but she started slowly and got a bit far back before running on for 5th. She too should be better for that experience, the step up in trip can suit, and Munro climbs on. Among the first timers, (8) SAENAE HUNTER was a long way behind a class 1 winner of his heat but nevertheless, he raced on pace and posted a quick time and can go well. (1) STORM FIGHTER and (7) DIA KNIGHT the others most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(2) Winner Clear (5) Lime Tree (8) Saenae Hunter (1) Storm Fighter
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maidens with three of the eight racing for the first time. (1) WONDERFUL GROOM will be a hot favourite, having run 3rd on debut over 1000M on May 31st and then 2nd over the same distance at start number two on July 5th. He raced on pace both times, the extra furlong can suite and he draws well to be on pace again and this time go all the way. After a couple of positive trials, (2) DREAM RACE settled handy on debut before running on for 4th place over this distance in a fair time. She should have derived benefit from the experience and shapes as the main danger here. The pick of the newcomers is (5) CRAZY LEO. He went through two trials, improving in the second of them on July 6th (which was a voluntary trial so may not appear in all racecards) when 2nd, a long way behind the winner but in a decent time. If he brings that form to the races, he has placing chances first-up. (4) BORA CHAMP and (8) THE WIND others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(1) Wonderful Groom (2) Dream Race (5) Crazy Leo (4) Bora Champ
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After winning a June trial, (6) WATER DRAGON ran 3rd on debut on July 19th over this distance racing handy throughout. He should have come on for that run, Munro gets on and he won’t need to improve very much at all to win here. (1) SUPER KANEL is a twenty-five- race maiden and can have a line drawn through his lates over a mile. He draws nicely here, and this is the kind of race in which he can find some minor money. (4) MISS CROW has raced three times with her best being a 4th place in June when coming from well off the pace. She has tended to get too far back in her races but in this company, she can be more prominent. (9) GLOBAL SPURT and (3) GUKDAE LEGEND perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(6) Water Dragon (1) Super Kanel (4) Miss Crow (9) Global Spurt
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Busan Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Small but tricky field with none entering in convincing form. (4) GOLDMASK has hinted at ability across her seven starts so far and while she has finished no better than 4th, she has finished off her races well and the slight step up in trip to 1400M may be just what she needs to break through. (8) FLYING ICE enters off a solid 4th place over 1300M on July 12th when settling right back and running on and a similar effort will see him closer in this company today. (1) HI LEGEND returned from four months out on June 21st and while he finished back in the pack, he should strip fitter here and comes into a better gate. (5) PUREUN YEOLJEONG and (3) PRIME JOY look to be the other place chances.

Selections(4) Goldmask (8) Flying Ice (1) Hi Legend (5) Pureun Yeoljeong
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (10 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:30 to 16:30). Here are the previews:

Raon The Point (centre) won the Busan Ilbo Sprint in March and goes in Seoul’s Sunday feature (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maiden fillies in the opener. (8) KYLIE has been slowly figuring things out and comes in off her best finish to date when 3rd over this distance on June 30th. She races on pace or handy and she won’t need to improve much to win this. (7) FLYING LION has three 5th places to her name which is enough to put her in contention in this company. One of those was her most recent outing on June 15th when she raced a little more forward than usual and with CC climbing up, she should be aiming for a best finish so far here. So too should (2) HAKSAN DAESE. She has also finished no better than 5th but she draws nicely here and should have the beating of most. (10) CHALLANHAN NALGAE and the debut-maker (11) GANDAGO are perhaps the best of the rest of an uninspiring bunch.

Selections(8) Kylie (7) Flying Lion (2) Haksan Daese (10) Challanhan Nalgae
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) DAEMYEONGJANG ran 2nd two starts back over 1200M before following up with a 4th place at this distance on June 22nd when going right back and running on. He has a runner-up finish to his name over this trip as well and so long as he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, has every chance here. (5) GREEN CONCORD has been making progress lately and enters off two 4th places and most recently a 3rd over this distance on June 15th when coming from off the pace in a filly only maiden. She will probably settle back again here and will be challenging late. (6) MR. POWER used up plenty of energy to get on pace from a wide draw on his latest outing on June 16th before weakening but two starts back he came from off the pace for a smart 3rd and that’s enough to put him in contention here. (1) JURING SKY and (11) MODERN DANCE others in the frame.

Selections(7) Daemyeongjang (5) Green Concord (6) Mr. Power (1) Juring Sky
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) BABEL DREAMY has six top-five finishes from her seven starts so far and enters here having run 3rd and 4th in her latest two, both over a mile and with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before and comes from off the pace so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she’ll be a warm favourite. (3) MUNMAK USANG and (1) SEONGSILCHAMPION came home 2nd and 3rd when they raced each other over 1400M on June 21st, both coming from off the pace and running on well and both may be ready for another crack at a mile. (9) SUPER KANEL is a twenty-four-race maiden, but his recent form reads relatively well, and this is the kind of company in which he can pick up some minor prize money. (7) ILNYEOM SINHWA is the other placing chance.

Selections(10) Babel Dreamy (3) Munmak Usang (1) Seongsilchampion (9) Super Kanel
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) EAST QUALITY has made steady progress across four starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place on his first try at this distance on June 15th when racing handy. He has the challenge of a wide draw, but should prove equal to it, and can win here. (11) BREEDO GIRL has had a wind op since her disappointing run when favourite on her third start back in April. She previously ran 2nd over this distance and while she may need this, she can be considered. (2) SINUI UNMYEONG raced on pace last time out over this distance on June 22nd, ultimately finishing 4th. He draws nicely to get forward again and can be in this a long way. (3) YONGBICHEON ran 5th behind East Quality last time out and along with (6) WHIZ LOVER is another to consider for the minors.

Selections(10) East Quality (11) Breedo Girl (2) Sinui Unmyeong (3) Yongbicheon
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (9) ARI DRAGON was a winner on debut over 1200M on June 28th when settling handy and running through the line well. She comes up in class and in distance, but neither should be a problem, Munro climbs on, and she can go two for two. (10) DAESEUNGNIJA is yet to score in ten tries but has plenty of near misses including last time out on June 21st when she led for most of the way around only to be ultimately passed by a good winner late on. She doesn’t need to lead, so the wide draw shouldn’t be a concern and while she comes up 2kg in the weights, she is the clear second favourite. (1) DAEHO NARA enters off a front-running 2nd place over 1400M at this class on June 23rd and from a great draw can be in the mix again. (3) MASTER ROAD and (6) AWESOME SUNRISE among plenty of others with placing claims.

Selections(9) Ari Dragon (10) Daeseungnija (1) Daeho Nara (3) Master Road
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) AMAZING ROCK obliged when favourite to get her maiden win over 1700M on June 29th, leading all the way around. She comes up in class but down in the weights, and she can win again. She probably won’t be favourite though. That’s likely to be her fellow three-year-old filly (9) MYUNGJINBULLPAI who comes out of a spin around in the final leg of the Triple Tiara. That didn’t go well but it was at 2000M, and she comes back to a distance at which she has the fastest time among these and a level at which she has placed three times. She’ll be firmly in the mix. (3) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL was winner at this class over 1300M two starts back. She followed it up with a 3rd place at the same distance a month ago and is in the placing frame again here. (8) P N S CAR and (5) RAIN STAR others to consider.

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

It’s been a wet week in Korea as the monsoon season is in full flow and that could continue across the racing weekend. The action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:10 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener, with six of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (6) ARION TAEYANG is the only one in the field to have raced twice, running 4th on debut over 1000M at the end of May before finishing a very close 2nd at start number two on June 28th, racing on pace and finishing in a quick time. Third-up she can have the edge fitness-wise on these and she can go one better.  (5) JULGEOUN DONGHANG didn’t have the smoothest of trips on debut over 1000M on June 21st, but she overcame it to run on well for 3rd. She should have benefitted from the experience and the step up in trip can suit. (10) MORE AND MORE debuted in the June 21st race, running 4th just over a length behind Julgeoun Donghang. Franco climbs up and she too can improve. Among the debut makers, (2) SWORD WING and (9) SHACKLE SUN look to have the best chance of an immediate impact.

Selections(6) Arion Taeyang (5) Julgeoun Donghang (10) More And More (2) Sword Wing
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start6, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maidens (of any age) with four of the eleven racing for the first time. (8) WATER DRAGON looked green in his trial, but he still won it with dismissive ease in a decent time with minimal urging. If he brings that form to the races, he can win. (3) BACK TO THE LADY has raced twice, finishing 4th on debut on June 16th and then improving to 2nd at start number two on July 5th, both at this distance and in the latter, racing on pace. She makes a quick return here and from a good draw it can be a winning one. (6) RUN TO QUEEN enters off a smart 3rd place in a good time over this distance on June 28th when racing handy. She also has a 2nd to her name and will probably be the betting favourite. Among the debut-makers, (7) DONGNAM GANGTAJA won a trial last November but never made it to the races. He has been in consistent work since April and returned to trial again in July, running 2nd in a decent time. Seo Seung-un being engaged suggests hopes are high first-up. (5) WHO IS NEXT another first-timer to look out for.

Selections(8) Water Dragon (3) Back To The Lady (6) Run To Queen (7) Dongnam Gangtaja
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only here. (11) RAON THE LEGEND has made progress across three starts so far with her latest being her best when 3rd over 1300M on June 26th. The slight step up in trip can be in her favour, the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can win this. (8) WE LIKE MONEY was a very close 2nd two starts back over 1300M before running 5th on her first try at this distance on June 21st. She has a smart finish on her and can be a danger late on here. (2) NEW LEADER was an improved 4th at start number three over 1200M on July 5th when coming from midfield. She makes a quick return here and from a good gate and with Munro up, she can get closer again. (9) GOLDEN NICE has a 3rd and a couple of 4th places to her name and should appreciate the step up in trip. (10) LUCKY HIT, who beat Raon The Legend when 2nd last time out, is another to consider.

Selections(11) Raon The Legend (8) We Like Money (2) New Leader (9) Golden Nice
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 11

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

Strong race for the level with no fewer than four up in class following last start maiden wins. Not among them is (10) WONDERFUL BIDDER, who was a winner on debut over 1200M in May before running 3rd when favourite for his first try at this class and distance on June 21st. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem as he has demonstrated he has a strong finish, and he can win here. That will mean overturning the form on (7) GWANGYAEUIHAMSUNG, who ran 2nd in that June 21st race having settled behind the speed and then run on. That continued a consistent run of form, and he can be in the finish again. (2) KING DRAGON may be the best of those up in class having won at start number two over 1200M back in April. He hasn’t raced since but looks nicely in here from a good gate and with Franco up. (3) BIG MUSICAL STAR and (4) CHEONHA SARANG among others in at least the placing hunt.

Selections(10) Wonderful Bidder (7) Gwangyaeuihamsung (2) King Dragon (3) Big Musical Star
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 10, 11

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

The only juvenile in the race, (1) OASIS RED got his maiden win at start number two on June 28th, leading for most of the way around over a mile. He comes up in class and up to two turns, but his trainer has a track record of successfully sending youngsters around 1800M very early, and he can win again here. (4) YEONGGWANGUICLASS remains a maiden after thirteen attempts but has plenty of near-misses with six to-three finishes. That includes his latest three, all at this class and distance and beating a few of today’s rivals, and while he comes up 2kg in the weights, he should be finishing strongly here. (7) THEIA is a winner of just one from twenty but has been getting progressively closer in her latest few and she should be there or thereabouts again. Up in class pair of (11) GOAT KING IJI (beaten by Oasis Red last time) and (10) SUNCHEON YEOWANG may offer some each-way value.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 14)

Sunday sees 17 races across the country with 9 at Seoul from 11:00 to 18:00 and 8 at Busan from 10:35 to 17:00. Here are the previews:

World Dragon (purple cup) was 2nd in the Derby – he runs Sunday at Busan (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

It’s juvenile maiden fillies only in the opener. (9) ECHO CHAMP is among six of the nine coming racing for the first time. She was the best of these in trials, racing on pace and running home 4th in a quick time. If she can bring that form to the races, she can win. She is the first by her sire, Champ Line, who was also trained by Thomas Gillespie, to make the track. (4) OWNER CHAMP also impressed in her heat, coming from off the pace to run 2nd in a good time. She draws nicely and can be a danger. The three with prior experience all debuted in the same race on June 21st over this distance and it was (1) DOCTOR MEGA who came out the best of them, racing handy and finishing 5th. (3) FANTASTIC HIT was 7th in that race but had previously shown well in trials and can improve. (2) GREEN SHARPEY the best of the other first-timers.

Selections(9) Echo Champ (4) Owner Champ (1) Doctor Mega (3) Fantastic Hit
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Competitive maiden. (1) JEONGSEONG VICE has a runner-up finish to his name and comes in off a close 3rd place over this distance on June 2nd when on pace throughout. He draws well here, Johan remains aboard, and he can make it ninth-time lucky. (2) HANGANG PERFECT was well fancied on debut over 1000M having previously shown well in a trial, but he got quite a long way back and only ran on for 6th. He should have derived benefit from the experience and the step up in trip can be in his favour. (3) CRAZY SHAH completes the top line of favourites with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two at 1200M and 1300M. She can be on pace here and in things a long way. The form drops off after those although (11) GROUPER also has a 2nd and a 3rd on his record and along with (10) GOLDEN JACKPOT, who looks the better of the two first-timers, can be considered for the minors.

Selections(1) Jeongseong Vice (2) Hangang Perfect (3) Crazy Shah (11) Grouper
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) DREAMING BOY ran 3rd on debut over 1200M in May but put in a disappointing effort second up at 1300M on June 7th when awkwardly away and colliding with the adjacent horse and then seemingly getting caught in kickback. We’ll draw a line through that and with Munro climbing on, give him another chance. (7) UNJU GUY was a solid 2nd on debut over 1200M on June 16th, settling right back and working home well. He didn’t get anywhere near the very good-looking winner, but he should have come on for the run and the extended trip should surely suit and he will probably start the betting favourite. (6) PURUEN YEOLJEONG has perked up considerably in her latest two and may be a racehorse after all. She was on pace last time and in this company, should be again. (2) NEOM CITY and (4) SIMON STAR among others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Dreaming Boy (7) Unju Guy (6) Puruen Yeoljeong (2) Neom City
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) COING made most of the running on debut over 1200M on June 16th only to be passed late but holding on for 2nd. He should have derived benefit from that experience and from a good draw, he can lead again, and this time go one better. (6) HEUNGHAENG BULPAE has finished no worse than 5th in any of his eight starts so far and beat three of today’s rivals on his way to a best so far runner-up finish over this distance on June 9th when settling midfield and running on. He shapes as the main danger here. Those two will make up everybody’s quinella such does the form drop off after them. (4) HERO CHAMP does have a couple of 3rd places on his record which despite recent form being poor, is enough to make him a money chance here. (2) SCALE KING and (7) GEUMSEONG YEOJE other minor contenders.

Selections(1) Coing (6) Heunghaeng Bulpae (4) Hero Champ (2) Scale King
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

This is a really nice-looking race for the level. (3) LEMON BULPAE has placed at this class and distance and has finished 4th in two starts back since returning from a four-month layoff. He carries his fair share of weight, but he draws nicely, he has the fastest time among these for the distance, and third-up, he can be peaking fitness-wise. (4) MORPHEUS was slightly disappointing last time out in early May but was later found to be slightly lame and to have cast a plate. He has won at a mile and placed at this class at 1200M and is a big danger. So too is (9) WONDERFUL FEVER. He is yet to win in five attempts but has never finished worse than 5th and placed twice at this distance at class 6 level. (2) QUEEN’S FLETAR and the up in class (6) POMPEII among plenty of others who can be in the mix.

Selections(3) Lemon Bulpae (4) Morpheus (9) Wonderful Fever (2) Queen’s Fletar
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Decent race but it’s hard to go far past (1) BUGANGJILJU. He got his maiden win at start number two in March before stepping up to this class and distance on June 15th and almost leading from gate to wire, ultimately getting passed late on by a good winner. He comes up in the weights but that’s balanced by a good gate, and he can go all the way this time. Neither (5) EUREKA nor (9) DREAM SKY win out of turn, but both are ultra-experienced at this level, and both enter with their recent form reading well. The latter gets a nice weight drop with an apprentice climbing on, putting her back below the mark she won at over 1200M three starts back, and both can be competitive here.  (4) GANGHAN NURI and (7) SMART WORLD among others in the pacing frame.

Selections(1) Bugangjilju (5) Eureka (9) Dream Sky (4) Ganghan Nuri
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 11

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 12)

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

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Eleven previously unraced juveniles debut here so we head for the trial videos. (10) BIG OWNER went through two trials (the second may not appear in all racecards because it was a voluntary trial) and in the second of them overcame a wide draw to race on pace in his heat and crossed the line 1st in a quick time. If he brings that form to the races, he will be dangerous. (1) NINETY PLUS came through the same trial, which was on June 22nd. He settled back but ran through the line well also in a good time. He draws nicely and can be considered. (5) EMPEROR qualified at the second time of asking and did it in fine front-running style. (7) LEMON TREE and (9) BEOLMAUI ANGEL among others who caught the eye among what looks a promising set of youngsters.

Selections(10) Big Owner (1) Ninety Plus (5) Emperor (7) Lemon Tree
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maidens with three of the eight racing for the first time. (8) CHEONHA GEONGANG did nothing in three starts across the turn of the year. She was spelled for four months, returning to training in early June and easily won a trial on June 29th leading most of the way and positing a quick time. She won’t need to improve much on that to win this. (5) HWANHUIUI MOON debuted without distinction last October and then had surgery to remove bone chips. For good measure he was gelded before returning to training and he looked very well when 2nd in a good time in a June trial. He can be on pace and can go well first-up.  (4) CHRIS MORE returned from almost five months out to run an improved 5th on June 21st. He should strip fitter here and can be closer. (1) GOTOTHEVALHALLA and debut-maker (6) DORAON SAMSON others in the mix.

Selections(8) Cheonha Geongang (5) Hwanhuiui Moon (4) Chris More (1) Gotothevalhalla
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Having run 5th on debut last November, (3) BEOLMAUI ACE didn’t race again until June 2nd, but he looked in very good order, running 2nd over 1200M, coming from off the pace. The slight step up in trip can suit and he can go one better second-up today. (7) MISS CROW has got a long way back in both her outings to date but she ran on well for 4th place at start number two over 1200M on June 21st. She is another for who the step up in trip can be a benefit and third up she can be peaking fitness-wise. (10) FAT BOY has made good progress across his latest couple of outings (which came eight months after his first), with a solid 4th place at 1200M on June 28th when racing on pace. He has the challenge of the widest gate here but should be in the mix. (4) WHITE OIL and (8) FLYING ICE other place chances.

Selections(3) Beolmaui Ace (7) Miss Crow (10) Fat Boy (4) White Oil
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 10

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

(7) GLORY GANGSEO was a winner on debut over 1200M back on April 12th, settling midfield before improving and pulling away from the field in the closing stages. He’s had thirteen weeks off since and is up in class and slightly in trip, but he can win again. (3) CAPTAIN EVERYTHING has been working towards a second win, most recently scoring a runner-up finish over this distance in a quick race on June 23rd. He comes up slightly in the weights, but he draws nicely, Franco remains aboard, and he is a danger. (5) BREEDO PELL was well backed for his first try at this class over 1400M on June 7th but having led, weakened. He was later found to have a respiratory issue but with a clean bill of health and back at the distance he won over in May, he can be given another chance here. (8) GRAY BOSS and (4) TAURUS KING among others in the frame.

Selections(7) Glory Gangseo (3) Captain Everything (5) Breedo Pell (8) Gray Boss
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start5, 7, 9, 10

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

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 7)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (8 races from 11:25 to 18:00) and Busan (9 races from 10:35 to 17:30). Here are the previews:

Gangpungma won the Sports Chosun Trophy and returns in Sunday’s Seoul feature (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (2) QUEEN OF DRAGON will be the hot favourite. Having put in two good trials she was well supported on debut over 1200M on April 19th and finished 2nd to the favourite, King Dragon. She has had eleven weeks off since then but should have come on for the run and from a good draw and against modest opposition, can win. (8) HAERANG JINJU has a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at 1300M and both times racing handy. She shapes as a potential danger here. (5) GUKDAE MIRACLE has raced twice, finishing 3rd on both occasions in similar all-filly fields and should be there or thereabouts again. (9) SPECIAL MATE and (4) GREEN BULLDOZER others who can improve.

Selections(2) Queen Of Dragon (8) Haerang Jinju (5) Gukdae Miracle (9) Special Mate
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(10) SEOBU CAPTAIN has done most of his recent work over a mile including a last start 4th place on June 7th that suggests he is coming into some form. His solitary place was a 3rd over this distance, and he has as good a chance as any in this competitive affair. (4) B.K. MARON comes in off a best to date 4th place on May 31st over this distance when overcoming gate eleven to work home very well. He gets a better draw here, Franco climbs on, and he can be aiming to get closer this time. That may mean overturning the form on (8) AMAZING MOVE, who ran 2nd in that May 31st race when handy throughout. Tanaka remains aboard and he can be in the mix again. (6) OAK RIDGE mixes his form but going on his 2nd place at 1300M two starts back has to be a live contender here. (11) RAON STROKE another in the hunt.

Selections(10) Seobu Captain (4) B.K. Maron (8) Amazing Move (6) Oak Ridge
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 9

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Tricky opener in the capital with not a huge amount of form to go on. (4) SERGEANT LIGHT perhaps has the most upside after back-to-back 5th places from his first two starts, both over this distance and in fair times. Both races were in probably tougher company than this and from a good draw, he can sit behind the early leaders and can prove too strong. (2) MAGIC SOUND has three consecutive 5th places from her latest three and while up in the weights, she draws well and in this modest company can be going better. Continuing on the theme of finishing 5th, that’s where (5) CAPTAIN MUSIC was on his debut on April 13th, having raced handy over this distance. He has had twelve weeks off since but should have derived benefit from the experience and can be in the mix here. Without a huge among of confidence, (6) YUSUBUJAENGSEON and (7) ARCH ROCKET are other possibles in a race that something has to win.

Selections(4) Sergeant Light (2) Magic Sound (5) Captain Music (6) Yusubujaengseon
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(1) YEONGGWANGUITOUCH has been working his way back towards a second win and enters off a runner-up finish in a quick time over 1300M on June 7th when coming from well off the pace. He previously has a 2nd place at this distance too and with Masa climbing up, he can go one better today. (9) HAERANG YOUNGUNG is up in class having secured his maiden win at start number eight at 1300M on June 7th when leading all the way around. That was his first start since February, and he can strip fitter for it. Down in the weights, he is firmly in the hunt. (11) GUKDAE STAR was 3rd behind Yeonggwanguitouch in that June 7th race and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, can go close again. (3) WONDERFUL CHEROKEE and (10) HANEUL HAETSAL others in the minor money frame.

Selections(1) Yeonggwanguitouch (9) Haerang Youngung (11) Gukdae Star (3) Wonderful Cherokee
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) YEONGUNG JARYONG ran 4th on debut in May before following up with a 2nd place at start number two over 1200M on June 8th, racing handy throughout. Moon Se-young stays up, he should be on pace, and it can be third time lucky. (4) HANGANG CAPTAIN did nothing in his first two starts but reappeared in May after four months out looking a much better prospect, winning a trial before running 5th and 2nd in two starts back with the latter coming over this distance on June 16th. In this company and from this gate, he can be expected to be on or close to the speed, and third-up this preparation, he can be peaking fitness-wise. (2) WONDERFUL TECHNO was a promising 3rd on debut at this distance on June 9th, coming from off the pace, and should have derived benefit from the experience. (10) POSEIDON BLUE and (3) RAON THE KLAMMER among plenty of others with placing chances.

Selections(8) Yeongung Jaryong (4) Hangang Captain (2) Wonderful Techno (10) Poseidon Blue
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 5)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 11:50 to 18:00. British jockey Alan Munro, who previously registered 140 winners in a four-year stint at Seoul, returns to Korean action with five rides. Here are the previews:

Baekduui Kkum returns (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juveniles in the opener with seven of the nine racing for the first time. (9) DANGDAE STAR has raced twice before, improving to 2nd at start number two over 1300M on June 14th. He has led on both appearances, the drop back in trip can suit, and his experience can win out. (4) WONDERFUL GROOM ran a solid 3rd on debut at this distance on May 31st, racing handy throughout. He should have come on for that run and can get closer this time. Plenty of decent trial showings among the debutants. (8) LIME TREE won her heat in good fashion, while (1) IT’S OK and (7) MAKE IT BETTER both looked assured and stopped the clock in quick times.

Selections(9) Dangdae Star (4) Wonderful Groom (8) Lime Tree (1) It’s Ok
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) YONGBI PAEWANG almost led from gate to wire on debut over 1000M on May 31st, ultimately coming home in 2nd place. He should have derived benefit from that experience and while up in trip here, he draws well to be on pace and has every chance of going one better. (9) BACK TO THE LADY debuted fairly over this distance on June 14th, settling midfield and running into 4th. She previously won a trial and with some natural improvement, she shapes as a big danger here. (11) NAEPYEON has a 4th place to his name as well as, by some margin, the fastest time any of these have recorded at the distance. The wide draw shouldn’t matter, and he can be a threat. (1) NEW LEADER has been well-backed on both starts and disappointed both times, but an improvement shouldn’t be ruled out. (3) LUCKY ROAD has been back to trial since she last ran and should be a different prospect this time around.

Selections(4) Yongbi Paewang (9) Back To The Lady (11) Naepyeon (1) New Leader
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) BEOLGYO FRANCHE has been working towards a maiden win and comes in following a very close 2nd place over 1400M on May 17th when overcoming a wide draw to get on pace. He comes unto a much better gate and today can be his day. (8) MOTHER WONDERFUL has a 3rd place to her name and enters off a smart 4th place over 1300M on June 14th when handy throughout. If the favourite comes unstuck, she seems best placed to take advantage. (2) JET SUN ran a much-improved 2nd at start number six over this distance on May 31st. In doing so she recorded the fastest time of any of these at the distance and she can be in the frame again. (11) DONGBU CHOEGANG and (4) SUPER KANEL are the other placing chances.

Selections(1) Beolgyo Franche (8) Mother Wonderful (2) Jet Sun (11) Dongbu Choegang
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 9

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

Fillies and mares only here. (3) SEUNGNI GITBAL remains a maiden and comes up in class here following back-to-back runner-up finishes over 1400M, racing on pace both times. She comes down in the weights, she draws nicely, and she has as good a chance as any. (9) ALICE MARINE is similarly a maiden, in her case following twelve attempts and her recent form reads well. She stepped up to this class for the first time on June 9th and ran a close 4th in a time faster than any of the others here have achieved or the distance and she won’t need to find much from that to win here. (10) TRICKSTER was a somewhat unexpected maiden winner over 1200M on June 14th but while she comes up in class, there is little to fear here, and she can measure up. (8) HYPER FORCE and (1) SEOGWI STAR among others to consider for the places.

Selections(3) Seungni Gitbal (9) Alice Marine (10) Trickster (8) Hyper Force
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Owners’ Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (June 30)

The final Graded race of the first half of the year is the highlight of racing on Sunday with the Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) being contested at Busan. There are 9 races at Busan from 10:35 to 17:30 and 8 at Seoul from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Tuhonui Banseok is among the Owners’ Cup contenders (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Unusually for a Sunday, we start at Busan and a maiden for fillies only opens proceedings. (4) NEOM CITY has shown steady progress across six starts to date, culmination in a runner-up finish over 1300M on May 26th in a very similar race to this. She can settle in midfield before running on to go one better this time. (10) DREAM TREE ran a fair 4th of twelve on debut over this distance back in March. She has had a further fourteen weeks off since, but she showed a nice late turn of foot that day and she can be a danger. (2) DAESUNG DOLPUNG enters off a to date best of 3rd at 1200M on June 16th. She makes a quick return here and from a nice draw should be in the mix. (8) GOLDMASK and (1) GREEN LEGEND are the other main contenders.

Selections(4) Neom City (10) Dream Tree (2) Daesung Dolpung (8) Goldmask
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) CHARON TODAY will be a hot favourite here. A winner and two-time placer before a layoff, she returned from nine months away to run 5th over 1200M on June 14th when leading and running out of steam. She should strip fitter for that run, she should be on pace again, and this limited field may not be able to stop her. (8) MACH MAN will need a line drawn through his latest on May 25th but if we go on his class and distance 3rd two starts back then he is in placing contention here. (1) VALHALLA too was only ordinary on his most appearance in April. He was a good winner over 1200M in February and then proved competitive at this class in March when 5th over 1400M. CC climbs on and from the inside gate, he can be close. (11) TWO TWO LIME and (5) RAINBOW ROAD perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(7) Charon Today (8) Mach Man (1) Valhalla (11) Two Two Lime
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

The capital opens with a maiden where five of the nine line up for the first time and one of those debut-makers, (3) DAESEONG STAR, will be the strong favourite. He came from off the pace to run 2nd in his trial in late May in a quick time. Moon Se-young is engaged and the two-year-old won’t need to find much on that trial to win this. Of the experience, (2) KYLIE is the best of a weak bunch. She hinted at figuring things out with an improved 5th place on June 1st over 1300M when racing on pace. She will be on speed here and can be close. It gets hard after that. (4) FLYING RED was much improved in a second trial and beat a couple of his fellow debut makers in the process, so that is enough for him to go into the numbers here. (5) GEUMSEONG POWER and (1) CANVASEN GO are experienced ones who may – and may is very much the operative word – improve.  

Selections(3) Daeseong Star (2) Kylie (4) Flying Red (5) Geumseong Power
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Plenty of chances here. (11) COLUMBIA CHAMP come sin off a very close 2nd place over 1200M when coming off the pace from a similarly wide draw. She hasn’t gone well at the 1300M before, but she could be ready for another crack and third-up this preparation following four-months off, she can be peaking fitness-wise. (5) DRAGON PUNCH returns to action for the first time since February. She looked very well when 3rd in a quick trial last week and so long as she didn’t leave her race there, can go well first-up. (7) GONJOHARI got his maiden win at 1200M in April before finishing down the field on his first try at this class and distance on June 2nd. He comes into a better gate today and can be given another chance. (8) FANTASTIC DREAM and (3) YONGSAN KEUNBYEUL among plenty of others in the money frame.

Selections(11) Columbia Champ (5) Dragon Punch (7) Gonjohari (8) Fantastic Dream
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) LEGEND TAP is the one to beat. He enters off a 3rd place over this distance on June 15th when as is his style, he came from off the pace and ran on well. He draws nicely, Moon Se-young takes over in the saddle, and he will take some beating. (5) HIPPODROME has mixed his form across five starts so far but his last outing was a solid one when 4th over 1300M. He comes up to this distance for the first time and he shapes as the main danger. (11) GANGCHEOL JEONSA was an improved 4th at start number three over 1300M on May 19th and can continue to make progress in this company. (9) LONDON GOLD and (1) DAEMUL SOCKS other minor money chances.

Selections(4) Legend Tap (5) Hippodrome (11) Gangcheol Jeonsa (9) London Gold
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 10

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

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