Busan

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 24)

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

Busan-trained Ssonsal successfully defended his SROA Chairman’s Trophy last weekend under Franco Da Silva (Pic: KRA)

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

Mainly, but not only, fillies in the opening maiden. (11) LET THEM ALL COME has raced twice, improving to 3rd place in the second of those over 1200M on February 23rd. He has had thirteen weeks off since then and he has the challenge of a wide draw, but he has as good a chance as any. (2) WHITE FALCON looks the main danger. She has a best of 2nd form eight starts and comes in off solid back-to-back 4th places. He draws nicely and Seo Seung-un climbs on. There are three debut-makers and a couple of them warrant consideration first-up. Both (10) MAX KINGDOM and (4) DREAM RACE trialled well and if they bring that form to the races, they can be close. Returning to the experience, (6) THE GREY MAN is another potential improver.

Selections(11) Let Them All Come (2) White Falcon (10) Max Kingdom (4) Dream Race
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

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

Competitive maiden. (2) BABEL DREAMY has a 2nd on her record and it came over this distance on March 24th when beaten only by the useful Morpheus. She got a bit far back when 5th among plenty of these on her latest start on April 26th but she comes back into a much better gate, and she can win here. (5) ILNYEOM SINHWA is yet to finish in the top two but has no fewer than six finishes between 3rd and 6th. He has two 3rd places among his latest three, both at this trip and most recently in that April 26th race. He should be close here. (6) TRICKSTER was 4th in that April 26th race, following on from a 2nd place at the start before and she can be a factor again. (4) STORMY DAY – who was 2nd that day at odds – along with (1) STAR PARK are others to consider for the places.

Selections(2) Babel Dreamy (5) Ilnyeom Sinhwa (6) Trickster (4) Stormy Day
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (8) SAENAE HIT is yet to win in seven attempts but has five top-five finishes, including her latest on May 3rd when 3rd over 1200M at this class. She comes up to the 1400M for the first time and it may well suit. (5) DAESEUNGNIJA is another non-winner, in her case from eight starts. She too comes in with recent form reading well with a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two, both at this distance and the most recent being at this class too. She likes to settle back and run on, and she should be a danger late. (10) QUEEN’S ROAD mixes her form but she has two 2nd places at this class over 1800M and may make some each-way appeal coming back in trip today. (3) SHINE FOREST and the up in class last start winner (9) DIA GRIT are others to consider.

Selections(8) Saenae Hit (5) Daeseungnija (10) Queen’s Road (3) Shine Forest
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

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

Another competitive affair. (7) MASTER ROAD is winless in five starts but has never been worse than 4th and has a 2nd and that 4th in her two starts at this class, most recently over 1200M on May 3rd when beating a couple of today’s rivals. She has posted a quick time over this distance and with Seo Seung-un climbing on, today can be the day. The wildcard is (6) PHANTOM ACE. He showed plenty of ability at this level before suffering a setback and he finally returns to action after more than a year out. He didn’t offer too many clues in his trial, but he may make for some interest. (8) RUBY STONE is yet to finish outside of the top-three, and she can maintain that record here. Her win came at this distance, and she should be on pace and in this a long way. The form falls off after that. (2) TAURUS KING and (1) SANGIM BOLT may improve.

Selections(7) Master Road (6) Phantom Ace (8) Ruby Stone (2) Taurus King
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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Beolmaui Star, Eoma Eoma To Clash Again in SROA Chairman’s Sprint

The road to September’s Korea Sprint hots up on Sunday as the domestic Sprint Series reaches its conclusion with the SROA Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G2), a race that is being run for the first time with international Listed status, at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. SEE HERE FOR FULL PREVIEW OF ALL 17 RACES ACROSS SEOUL & BUSAN ON SUNDAY.

Beolmaui Star and Seo Seung-un (Pic: KRA)

Following his gate to wire win in the SBS Sports Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) on April 14th, BEOLMAUI STAR is the favourite to back up. He ran a huge 2nd to Japanese star Remake in last year’s International Korea Sprint but struggled with his start in the Kookje Shinmun Trophy at Busan last November and then in two forgettable efforts in Dubai to begin the year.

Seoul seems to suit Beolmaui Star though and under Seo Seung-un, he was the fastest away in the SBS Sports Sprint and was never headed, scoring by three-quarters of a length. He comes into a much better gate this time around and so long as he gets the start right, he will prove hard to beat again.

EOMA EOMA was the horse who got closest to Beolmaui Star in the SBS. It was a return to form for the 2022 Korea Sprint winner who had been an underwhelming 5th in the first leg of this year’s series, the Busan Ilbo Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) in March 10th. To add to the intrigue, CC Wong gets legged up for his first real live chance in a Korean Group race.

The result of the Busan Ilbo had hinted at a generational shift as the four-year-old pair of RAON THE POINT and SOMETHING LOST swept home late to finish 1st and 2nd respectively. The older sprinters struck back in Seoul last month but Something Lost finished a close 3rd and Raon The Point is worth another chance from a better draw.

A newcomer on the Sprint Series trail is VICS GO. In the absence of the top line of sprinters he won the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy over 1200M in February but instead of persisting into the Busan Ilbo, he was sent back up to two turns and the Stayer Series instead. That didn’t go well so he comes back down in trip again and from a good gate, can be in the mix.

Several old-favourites among the sprinting ranks return including last year’s winner SSONSAL as well as the venerable MORFHIS, now nine-years-old but a creditable 6th placegetter in the SBS Sports. Among the lesser-known ones, FANTASTIC KINGDOM is a winner of six of nine starts up to class 2 level and while facing the elite at level weights will be a new experience for him, he may just measure up.

The SROA (Seoul Racehorse Owners’ Association) Chairman’s Sprint is race 8 on the 10-race Sunday card at Seoul with a local post time of 16:30.

Sprint Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (May 19)

Sprinters take centre-stage on Sunday with the 3rd leg of the Sprint Series, the SROA Chairman’s Sprint (1200M KOR-G2) the highlight. There is also Listed action with the Sports Chosun Trophy (2000M). There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 plus 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 17:00. Here are the previews:

Ssonsal beat Eoma Eoma to win last year’s SROA Chairman’s Sprint. Both return (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in the opening maiden and there will be a strong favourite. (6) COMPLETE PARTY has two 3rd places and a 4th among five starts so far and the fastest time among these for the 1200M by a considerable margin. In this company, she can settle just behind the early speed and should prove too strong. (1) BYLONG STAR was 6th to Complete Party’s 4th when they raced each other at 1200M on April 14th. She has certainly shown more in trials than she has at the races, but it marked an improvement, and we could see more here. (9) JANGBI DAEUN debuted fairly back in December and while she hasn’t raced since, she looked well in an April trial and can be a danger. (8) HERO GOLD and (3) STUNNING QUEEN other placing chances.

Selections(6) Complete Party (1) Bylong Star (9) Jangbi Daeun (8) Hero Gold
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

(6) BREEDO KING STAR has two 3rd places and a 4th from his latest three, all at 1400M. In this company he can be expected to be on the pace, and he has every chance of going all the way. (9) DONKEY PLAY wasn’t fancied at all on debut after an undistinguished trial, but she ran a close 2nd over 1200M, coming from off the pace. She should have derived benefit from that experience and while this field is stronger, she could match that or even go one better. Like Breedo King Star, (7) BOLLIN has two 3rd places in his record including at this distance last time out on April 20th. He comes in under the same weight and warrants consideration. (10) TOHOMARKET and (8) WONDERFUL JET others in the frame.

Selections(6) Breedo King Star (9) Donkey Play (7) Bollin (10) Tohomarket
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

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

(2) FLYING THE FORD did nothing in his first two starts in December and February, but after going back and winning a trial, re-emerged at this distance on April 12th and led for much of the way before finishing 2nd. He draws very nicely to get to the lead here and he will be favourite to go one better. There are three debut-makers and among them, (7) WONDERFUL BIDDER makes for the most appeal. He trialled in October and then again at the end of April, crossing the line in 2nd place in both in good times. This is a great race to debut in and he can be close. (8) SHINING MORNING comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes over 1300M and 1200M in contrasting styles. She continues under a light weight and Choi Si-dae climbs up. (4) WORLD ANGEL CAT and (9) THE BIG SHOT are others to consider.

Selections(2) Flying The Ford (7) Wonderful Bidder (8) Shining Morning (4) World Angel Cat
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

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

(10) USEUNG CONCORD got a 3rd and then a 2nd in two outings late last summer before returning in April and getting his maiden win at start number three over 1200M. Up in class here, he should strip fitter for that run and the step up in trip can suit. He’ll be a short-price favourite. (7) BAEKRYONG remains a maiden after ten attempts but has had plenty of near misses including his last start 2nd at 1300M when trying this distance for the first time. He comes up 2kg in the weights but can be in the mix again. (4) THE SUN FIGHTER similarly enters with recent form reading well. He has the fastest final furlong average time among these and an apprentice claiming 3kg should make him more than competitive. (1) BAEDARI HYANGGI is up in class following a maiden win over this trip on April 7th and he can measure up. (11) STAR RUSH another to consider.

Selections(10) Useung Concord (7) Baekryong (4) The Sun Fighter (1) Baedari Hyanggi
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

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

Fillies only here. (3) SEKWANG CHOEGANG is yet to win but has five top-three finishes from seven starts with a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two, both at 1200M at this class. She has a strong finish on her and having already placed at 1300M, the slight step back up in trip can suit. (6) FLEX DAY took a couple of goes to get used to this level but ran well for 2nd over this distance on April 19th. She comes up 3kg in this company, but a similar effort will see her as a major danger here. (1) RED JASPER is, like Sekwang Choegang, still a maiden and she can mix her form, but she comes in off a last start 3rd place in a similar all filly race over 1400M and from a nice gate and still under a light weight, she shouldn’t be dismissed. (4) JINJU BIT and (2) JAZZ STAR among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(3) Sekwang Choegang (6) Flex Day (1) Red Jasper (4) Jinju Bit
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 17)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday where there are 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Fillies only in the opening maiden. (11) PURE DANCE returned from seven months out to run a fair 3rd place over this distance on April 26th, racing handy throughout. She should strip fitter for that run and can win here. That will mean overturning the form on (3) CHAS QUEEN. She ran 3rd in that April 26th race, settling midfield and running on to record her best finish to date. She draws nicely here and will be a danger. (10) SEOGWI STAR has the fastest time among these for the distance and comes in under an apprentice claim which can bring her into contention. (12) GOLDEN NICE and (5) STORMING MAGIC are others who have top-four or better finishes in their records and can be considered.

Selections(11) Pure Dance (3) Chas Queen (10) Seogwi Star (12) Golden Nice
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start4, 9, 10, 11

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

(7) BREEDO PELL did nothing on debut last October and wasn’t seen again until March when he trailed well, before returning to action on April 12th and looked a totally different prospect, finishing 3rd over this distance. He should have come on for that run and will be a warm favourite over this somewhat limited looking set of opponents. (2) SKY ARCH comes in following a 2nd and a 3rd in her latest two, both over 1400M, both times coming from off the pace and she can be one of the main dangers here. (6) BEST BOY was an improved 3rd at his latest outing on April 21st. He showed a smart finish on him and should be coming home strongly again. (8) OAK RIDGE and (4) ARA NURI are the other placing chances.

Selections(7) Breedo Pell (2) Sky Arch (6) Best Boy (8) Oak Ridge
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

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

(5) HYPER FORCE didn’t do much on debut but has since run a 3rd and a 2nd, the latter in a filly only race over this distance on April 19th when she settled just behind the speed and ran on very pleasingly. She was found to be slightly lame after that, but she was quickly back in work, and she can go one better today. (9) ONE WAY ROAD has been consistent across his latest few and in this company, he really should be looking for a best finish to date. There is very little early speed in the race so the widest gate shouldn’t prevent (10) BEOLGYO FRANCHE from getting to a forward position and with a 3rd and a 4th from his latest two, he should be in the mix at the business end of the race. (2) ROSE DRAGON and (7) CHEONGMAUI JILJU are others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Hyper Force (9) One Way Road (10) Beolgyo Franche (2) Rose Dragon
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 10

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

The only downside about (12) JEOLDAE BOSS is his draw. And perhaps that he is yet to win in fifteen attempts. He has plenty of near-misses though including last time out over 1300M on April 14th when he led late but ultimately had to settle for 2nd. In this company he can get a forward position, regardless of the gate, and he can win today. (6) CAPTAIN DIA was a winner at this class over 1300M two starts back before running close 5th over the same distance at his latest outing when slowly away. He carries his fair share of weight again but with a better start he can be in the mix here. (5) GANGSEO JEORYEONG can mix his form, but he comes back in trip today and can be a threat. (4) BRUG KINGMAN is up in class following a last start maiden win and can measure up. (2) POWER PLANE another place chance.

Selections(12) Jeoldae Boss (6) Captain Dia (5) Gangseo Jeoryeong (4) Brug Kingman
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 12

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 10)

It’s Korean Derby weekend with the big race set for Seoul on Sunday afternoon. Before that, the weekend’s action gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

With plenty of top riders away in Seoul, Park Jae-i is set to be the jockey to follow at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)

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

After an ordinary trial, (9) PRIME PARK wasn’t fancied at on debut over this distance on April 7th. She made light of that as well as a wide draw, to sit back and then run on strong for 2nd place, ahead of a couple of todays rivals. She should have come on for that run and will be much more respected here. There are three first time starters and one of them is the second pick. That’s (1) DREAMING BOY, who has been through his fair share of trials before finally making it to the track. He won a March trial before running a good 3rd in another heat last month, stopping the clock in a good time. If he brings that form to the races, he’ll go close. (8) GOLDEN AIR took a few goes to figure things out but enters off a 3rd and a 5th, most recently behind Prime Park and he can be in the mix again. (5) RAON THE LEGEND ran 4th on debut in the Prime Park race and similarly should have come on. (3) LASER GRIT another who could improve.

Selections(9) Prime Park (1) Dreaming Boy (8) Golden Air (5) Raon The Legend
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

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

Fillies only here and (4) FLYING BABY is the one to beat. After a couple of ordinary outings, she was ridden further forward at start number three over this distance on April 5th and run on for a solid 2nd place. She draws nicely here and can go one better. (3) SUNCHEON YEOWANG also has a 2nd place on her resume, recorded over 1200M two starts back. She came from well off the pace to run a fair 5th on her latest appearance at 1400M last month and she shapes as a potential danger here. (10) MARIA’S CALL has a 5th and a 3rd in two outings most recently over this distance on April 12th. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but can continue to make progress. (7) HAERANG JINJU and (9) WORLD PINK CAT others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Flying Baby (3) Suncheon Yeowang (10) Maria’s Call (7) Haerang Jinju
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(2) BLISS MARINE has mixed his form across four starts so far but has a 3rd and a 2nd among them, the latter on his most recent appearance when stepped up to the mile on April 5th. The distance seemed to suit, he draws well to be on pace again, and he is the one to beat here. (12) UNJU LEGEND also seems to suit the mile, having finished 3rd on both of her two tries at it. She is one of the quicker starters among these, but she doesn’t need to lead, and she can be working home well here again. (5) NANGMAN DAERO has four 4th place finishes but comes in off a solid 3rd over this distance on April 19th when he led for much of the way around. He draws well to lead again, and he should be in this a long way. (4) STORMY DAY and (9) BLAZING MAN are others in the frame.

Selections(2) Bliss Marine (12) Unju Legend (5) Nangman Daero (4) Stormy Day
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 12

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

(2) JANGSAN LEMON got his sole win to date over this distance and enters with a 3rd and two 6th places in three tries at this class, most recently racing alongside a couple of others who go here over 1300M on April 14th. He comes into a better gate today and back up at 1400M, can return to winning ways. That will mean overturning the form on (4) YEONYEIN, who ran 3rd in that April 14th race, settling midfield and running on well. He comes up just 1kg in the weights but should be prominent here. Tise two are the clear top picks. (6) GHOST AMAZON was a winner over 1200M at start number two before getting a bit far back on her first try at this class and distance on March 24th. She can be given another chance here. (3) YONGSAN KEUNBYEUL and (7) DAEHOMA others in the placing hunt.

Selections(2) Jangsan Lemon (4) Yeonyein (6) Ghost Amazon (3) Yongsan Keunbyeul
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 8

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

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Korean Oaks Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (May 5)

It’s Korean Oaks Day. The Filly Classic is race 6 on a 7-race card at Busan which runs from 11:25 to 17:00. There are also 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Eclipse Berry is hot favourite to return to winner’s circle in the Korean Oaks (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in the opening maiden with three of the eleven racing for the first time, and we’ll take a chance on one of them. (4) UASEN looked very competent in her trial crossing the line in 4th place in a good time (albeit with a class 1 horse up front helping them to some fast fractions. She ran through the line well and 1200M can suit first-up. Of the experienced ones, (6) BEAUTYWONDERFUL has shown the most so far. She comes in following a runner-up finish over 1200M on March 24th when she settled midfield and ran on. That continued an upward trajectory in her recent appearances, and she should be close again. (10) HAMPYEONG JANGMI has a 2nd place on her resume and in this limited company that’s enough to put her in the numbers while (2) SEMYEONG GHOST and debut-maker (5) TIZ THE FASHION look other minor chances.

Selections(4) Uasen (6) Beautywonderful (10) Hampyeong Jangmi (2) Semyeong Ghost
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 10, 11

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

(3) NAOL INDY was a much-improved 4th at start number two over 1200M on April 5th, settling midfield and running on. That was a full ten months after his inauspicious debut last summer and he should strip much fitter for the run and from a good draw, is the one to beat. (7) GALSAEK DOJEONJA has hinted at ability across six starts so far with a 3rd on his record and a last start 4th over this distance. In this small field and this company, he can be a little further forward than usual and can be in this a long way. (4) DANCING GANGJA enters off a much-improved 3rd place over 1200M on April 7th when racing handy throughout. He is drawn well to attempt similar here. (9) CHROMITE and (2) P N S JU are other placing chances.

Selections(3) Naol Indy (7) Galsaek Dojeonja (4) Dancing Gangja (9) Chromite
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 7

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

Two debut-makers in this field and she looks interesting. (6) YOUR TURN has been through three trials, dating back to last September and has won two of them and finished 2nd in the other, all three in quick times. This is not an intimidating field to debut among and if she brings the trial form to the races, she can win. (7) STORM GRIT is the big danger. He was very close 2nd at start number two over this distance on March 15th when coming from off the pace and almost getting there. He will be running on strong again here. The other first-timer is (9) NEW LEADER. She went through two trials, finishing behind Your Turn in the second of them. The time was quick though and a big first-up run can’t be ruled out. (3) DANCING BOY and (1) DONGBU CHOEGANG are other experienced ones who may have a say.

Selections(6) Your Turn (7) Storm Grit (9) New Leader (3) Dancing Boy
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

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

(10) ECLIPSE HONOR will be a hot favourite. He ran 2nd over this distance on debut on March 23rd, settling midfield and running on. The time wasn’t quick, but nothing here has gone much quicker and with some natural improvement from his first start, he will be hard to beat. (7) EUMSEONG POWER was 5th behind Eclipse Honor on debut in that March 23rd race and has since come back out and run 4th, again at 1400M. He seems on the right trajectory and third-up can be peaking fitness-wise. (8) NONSTOP YEOLCHA enters off a solid 2nd at 1300M on March 23rd, settling midfield and running on. The slight step up in trip can suit. (4) TAENGGEURI and (9) MAGIC PRINCE others in the placing frame.

Selections(10) Eclipse Honor (7) Eumseong Power (8) Nonstop Yeolcha (4) Tanggeuri
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 10

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

Fillies only here. (9) DAEJIUIYEOJEONSA is yet to win but has also never finished outside the top-four in seven starts. She loves finishing 2nd, which she has done on each of her last four outings, but she really should be stepping up here. On her latest she was a very close runner-up in a quick time over this distance and she won’t need to improve much on that to win. If she does find one too quick yet again, it could be (2) TROUBLEMAKER. She is one for one at this distance but has been slow away in her two subsequent tries at this class over 1400M. She draws nicely here and if she gets out of the gate even only fairly, then she can be a threat. (8) GREAT QUEEN got her maiden win over this distance on March 29th. She comes up in class today but can measure up. (11) BLACK JILJU and (10) RAID HIT among plenty of others with placing chances.

Selections(9) Daejiuiyeojeonsa (2) Troublemaker (8) Great Queen (11) Black Jilju
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 11

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

Competitive race. We’ll take a chance on (3) FOUR ACE. She is yet to win in seventeen starts but she has come close on plenty of occasions including a smart 3rd place last time out on March 17th over this distance when, as she often does, she got a long way back. CC Wong climbs aboard today and if she can be a bit closer in touch, it can be her day. (6) BEST DAERO got his maiden win at stat number three over 1300M on March 30th, leading all the way. He comes up in class but is down in the weights and there could be more to come. (7) WONDERFUL SWEET got his maiden win at this distance on Christmas Day and has since run 4th in two tries at this class. He should be there or thereabouts today. (4) LEGENDSUN and (5) SEMYEONG LADY others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Four Ace (6) Best Daero (7) Wonderful Sweet (4) Legendsun
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

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

(8) MONSTER DRAGON was a winner on debut over 1200M in January and has since run 3rd in two tries at this class and distance, both times settling handy and running on. Expect similar tactics today and this time he can come home on top. (2) SKY GRIT was a winner two starts back at 1200M before running 4th on her first try at this level at 300M on April 7th. She draws very nicely to be on pace here and can be in this a long way. (4) GRAY QUEEN was 3rd in that April 7th race having run on from midfield. The slight step up in trip can suit and she should be in the finish again. (6) BIG WILD has won a trial since his latest showing and can be given another chance. (11) DOCTOR LEO another possible placer.

Selections(8) Monster Dragon (2) Sky Grit (4) Gray Queen (6) Big Wild
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 3)

It’s Korean Oaks weekend and the action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11: 50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Last year’s Oaks winner Jeulgeounyeojeong won the Ttukseom Cup last week (Pic: KRA)

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

Fillies only in this maiden and (2) GRAND CHASER will be the one to beat. She ran 2nd on debut on Christmas Eve before running a fair 5th of eleven when favourite on her return in January when she was impeded in the straight. She comes in fresh here and from a good draw, should win. (11) YEONGGWANGUI ROSE has hinted at ability across three starts so far. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but with a bit of luck at the start, she can find a forward position and be in this a long way. (3) MOTHER WONDERFUL comes in off a (admittedly distant) 3rd place over 1300M at the end of last month and can be in the mix again. (4) QUEEN’S FLETAR and (6) ONE WAY others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Grand Chaser (11) Yeonggwangui Rose (3) Mother Wonderful (4) Queen’s Fletar
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 11

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

(3) WHITE FALCON returned from four months out to run a fair 4th over 1200M on April 12th having settled right back. She has bled in the past but has shown ability with her best being a runner-up finish back in December. She has the fastest time among these for the distance, Moon Se-young climbs up, and she should strip fitter for that outing three weeks ago. The main danger is in the adjoining gate. (4) ONEULISUNGAN has a 3rd and a 5th in two starts so far, most recently beating a couple of today’s rivals over 1400M. Third-up she can be peaking fitness wise and is a real chance here. (7) ALICE MARINE ran 2nd over this trip two starts back. She’ll be on pace here and should be in it a long way. (6) NAEPYEON and (5) GWANGSOKMA others to consider.

Selections(3) White Falcon (4) Oneulisungan (7) Alice Marine (6) Naepyeon
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

(9) BLACK EAGLE enters off her best finish to date when 3rd over 1400M on March 29th. She settled right back that day and ran on so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she will be the one to beat here in this limited field. (2) SEUNGNI GITBAL ran an improved 4th place when stepped up to this distance on April 5th, also settling back and running on, and that’s enough to make her the danger here. There is not early speed in the race so that may allow (7) ILCHUL GOLD to be further forward today and with Tanaka up, she can improve on recent performances. (4) JOJOBA and (1) FLYING ICE, the latter having been back to trial since an underwhelming debut, others in the frame.

Selections(9) Black Eagle (2) Seungni Gitbal (7) Ilchul Gold (4) Jojoba
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

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

(2) MOUNTAIN DADDY got his maiden win in March when making all over a mile, before stepping up to this class and distance on April 5th and beating a few of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place. He comes up only slightly in the weights and from a good draw can be on or close to the pace here and will be expected to win. (9) WITH STAR loves coming home in 4th place, somethings he has done in each of her latest four starts and on seven occasions in total. She was (of course) 4th behind Mountain Daddy in that April 5th race but she has a sharp finish on her and really should be closer this time. (3) OVER THE TRIPLE and (4) QUEEN’S ROAD will need their respective latest efforts overlooked but both can be competitive in this company. (8) SEOGWI OREUM another place chance.

Selections(2) Mountain Daddy (9) With Star (3) Over The Triple (4) Queen’s Road
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

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Ttukseom Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (April 28)

The second leg of the Queens’ Tour Spring/Summer is Sunday’s feature and is race 7 on the 11 race program at Seoul that runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Raon The Spurt is the defending Ttukseom Cup Champion but will have to hold out Jeulgeounyeojeong is she is to repeat (Pic: KRA)

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

(2) SPINNING BOOM will be a warm favourite for the opener. After a middling debut when he was slowly away, he has recorded, a 4th, a 2nd and a 3rd in three subsequent starts, all at 1200M. In this company and from a good draw, he will be racing on pace and with Moon Se-young climbing up for the first time, today should be the day. (6) GEUMAK MYEONGJANG has hinted at ability across three starts so far, running better times than most of those over 1200M. He can be further forward today and the very slight step up in trip can suit. (3) YEONGWON POTEN enters off an improved 3rd place over 1200M in a filly only maiden a month ago. She draws nicely and should be close. (5) AMAZING STAR and (1) BREEDO MAGICIAN are others to consider.

Selections(2) Spinning Boom (6) Geumak Myeongjang (3) Yeongwon Poten (5) Amazing Star
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

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

(1) TONNERRE has shown signs of figuring things out and while he did get sent back to trial having continuously lain out in his latest outing when 4th over this distance on March 23rd, he won his subsequent morning heat by leading all the way. He draws nicely here and can win. (6) CHEONMA BULPAE has two 3rd place finishes among his latest three starts, both at this distance. He can sit behind the speed here and can run into some money again. (4) AMAZING ROCK ran fairly on debut with a midfield finish over this distance. He should have come on for that run and can get closer second-up. (10) KNIGHT CHARM and (7) SOFT POWER among others with at least placing chances.

Selections(1) Tonerre (6) Cheonma Bulpae (4) Amazing Rock (10) Knight Charm
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 10, 11

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (5) SWEET BEOMHAN debuted inauspiciously last November but having been put away for four months, looked much better when returning on March 31st over 1200M and beating three of today’s rivals on her way to 2nd place having raced handy. She won’t need to improve very much to win this. (10) RUN TO QUEEN similarly improved to 2nd at start number two, in her case over 1200M on March 22nd. Her times haven’t been quick, and she has the challenge of a wide draw, but she still shapes as the testing material here. (1) SIMON STAR debuted in that March 31st race and ran a fair 5th behind Sweet Beomhan. With some natural improvement as a result of that experience, she can get closer today. (3) WORLD MAID CAT and (4) MY HIT are others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Sweet Beomhan (10) Run To Queen (1) Simon Star (3) World Maid Cat
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 9, 10

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

Fillies and mares only. (3) BEOLGYOWISU will be the one to beat. After getting her maiden win over 1200M in December, he had an off day when tried at this class for the first time in January, sent off as favourite and showing close to the pace, but weakening badly. She came back into form with a 2nd place, again back at 1200M on March 2nd and coming in fresh from eight weeks off, she can win. The danger is (6) SHACKLE POINT. She too got her maiden win three starts back before running midfield on her first try at this class in February. That was followed by a good 3rd place at this distance on March 23rd when she almost led the entire way around and she should be a big player here. (8) SMART BYEOL has two 3rd places and a 4th from her latest three and should be there or thereabouts again. (4) SINUI YEOIN and (10) WONDERFUL SHADOW may provide some each-way value.

Selections(3) Beolgyowisu (6) Shackle Point (8) Smart Byeol (4) Sinui Yeoin
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 10

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

(2) SEOBU VISION is yet to win in six outings but has been no worse than 4th in each of his last four starts, including when beaten into a close 3rd as favourite over this distance on March 31st. He comes up slightly in weight today but is in a good gate and this time can get the win. (4) DRAGON FIRE broke though at start two over 1300M on January 28th, settling right back and finishing very well. He comes up in class here and has had thirteen weeks off, but the step up in trip should suit and he can be competitive. (10) KOHINOOR has been consistent across nine starts to date and enters having beaten a few of these, including Seobu Vision, at class and distance on March 31st. He comes up 2kg in the weights and has the challenge of a wider gate but should be close again. (5) GUKDAE HERO and (1) BARADEON BADA among plenty of others with placing hopes.

Selections(2) Seobu Vision (4) Dragon Fire (10) Kohinoor (5) Gukdae Hero
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(1) GIANT M got his   maiden win at 1400M two starts back before running nowhere on his first try at this class over the same trip on March 24th when drawn wide and using up plenty to get a forward position. He comes up to two turns for the first time, but it can suit and from the inside gate, Jeong Jeong-hee can pick his spot. (2) DONGHAENG FIRST is yet to win in fourteen attempts but has been getting closer, culminating in a runner-up finish at class and distance on April 13th when on pace all the way. One of only three here with prior experience of two-turns, he has every chance of breaking through. (7) EUNPA JOY come sup in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes at 1300M and 1400M. The step up in trip can suit and he is down in the weights. (11) NARAOLA and (8) PLAN B are the other logical placing chances.

Selections(1) Giant M (2) Donghaeng First (7) Eunpa Joy (11) Naraola
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(8) EUNSEONG CHAMPION got his maiden win at start number seven with a front-running score over a mile on March 17th. He comes up in class here but us down in the weights, Franco remains aboard, and he can win again. (3) MAX THE CAT shapes as the main danger. He too comes up in class and down in the weights following a maiden win over a mile last time out, in his case in February. In contrast to Eunseong Champion, he came from well off the pace so just who starts as favourite may depend on how the track has been playing in the first couple of races. (5) LEMON DRAGON completes a trio of up in class last start winners over this distance. His winning time was slow, but he has plenty more scope for progress and can be competitive. (12) WONDERFUL KAYLAN and (2) UNJU WINNER, who has been through a quick trial with Beolmaui Star since his last race, are others to consider.

Selections(8) Eunseong Champion (3) Max The Cat (5) Lemon Dragon (12) Wonderful Kaylan
Next Best2, 9
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

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

Racing returns to the daytime schedule this week and kicks off with an 8-race program at Busan on Friday running 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

(2) SUPREME QUEEN has finished between has been getting closer in her latest starts, culminating in a 3rd place over 1300M on March 29th when leading for much of the way and beating a couple of today’s rivals. She should be on pace again here and this time can have too much. (5) GONJOHARI ran once in the middle of last year, finishing a fair 6th. He hasn’t raced since but looked well when trialling up in March and in this company can go well first up. (7) POMPEII has finished 5th on both starts so far. Third-up he can be peaking fitness wise and should get closer. (11) YEONGGWANGUIFIRST and (4) PURE DANCE among others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Supreme Queen (5) Gonjohari (7) Pompeii (11) Yeongwanguifirst
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

(9) POWER BANK enters off a to-date best of 2nd over 1300M on March 24th when on pace throughout and ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He’ll be on pace again here and this time looks like the one to beat. (2) AWESOME SUNRISE is the probable second favourite. She has plenty of experience over this trip and she won’t need to improve much on how she ran when 4th last time out in order to get closer here. (1) BEOLGYO FRANCHE enters odd a fair 3rd place over 1200M on March 31st, when he led for much of the way. He can be on pace and in this a long way again. (3) BRUG KINGMAN and (11) CHEONGMAUI JILJU are others to consider.

Selections(9) Power Bank (2) Awesome Sunrise (1) Beolgyo Franch (3) Brug Kingman
Next Best11, 12
Fast Start1, 3, 11, 12

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) FUERTE has a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two, both over a mile and both times settling midfield and running on. Tanaka climbs on today and she can settle back once more, and this time prove too strong late on. That will mean overturning the form on (7) STAR PARK who comes in having run 3rd to Fuerte’s 4th when they raced each other at this distance on April 5th. He also has a 2nd place to his name and is another who likes to settle back and be doing his best work late. (12) BABEL DREAMY has shown progress across four starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place at this distance on March 24th. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but can be a factor. (2) STORMY DAY and (8) TRICKSTER other placing chances.

Selections(4) Fuerte (7) Star Park (12) Babel Dreamy (2) Stormy Day
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 10

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (11) RUBY STONE got her maiden win in a quick time over 1200M two starts back before running 2nd on her first try at this class on March 29th, leading almost the entire way and beating plenty of today’s rivals. Her win came from the same wide draw she has today and this time she should go one better. (4) SEKWANG CHEOGANG was 3rd on that March 29th race. She has mixed her form over her six appearances, but she has a good finish on her and can be a danger. (9) SEUNGNI PARTY has been consistent over her own six starts, with her win coming at this distance. In this company, she should be on pace, and she can go close.  The up in class last start winner (10) BUSAN TODAY along with (5) BRAVE CAPTAIN are others to look out for. 

Selections(11) Ruby Stone (4) Sekwang Choegang (9) Seungni Party (10) Busan Today
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 11

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

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YTN Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (April 21)

After the sprinters last week, this week it’s the second leg of the Stayer Series and the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3) headlines the daytime card on Sunday at Seoul. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Global Hit headlines Sunday’s YTN Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

(9) USEUNG CONCORD raced twice in late summer last year, recording a 3rd and a 2nd over 1000M and 1200M. He hasn’t raced since but trialled up fairly in March and Moon Se-young’s engagement makes it likely they intend to pick up from where they left off and win first-up against this very limited set of opponents. (5) ARCH ROCKET has hinted at ability and should at least be on pace here. An apprentice keeps his weight very light, and he should be in the mix. (10) POWER TRY is the solitary debut maker. It took hm two goes to qualify but he looked competent enough at the second time of asking and he can be considered against this lot. (7) JEONGSEONG VICE and (6) HERO NARA others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Useung Concord (5) Arch Rocket (10) Power Try (7) Jeongseong Vice
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 9

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

(9) BREEDO KING STAR enters off a 3rd and a 4th, both at this distance and both times settling behind the lead before finishing well. Despite the wide draw, he can be expected to be on pace here and he us the one to bear. Clear second-pick is (1) GEUMSEONG REVERE. Having returned from almost nine months out to run a 4th place over 1300M on March 14th, she should strip fitter here and can be a danger. The form falls off significantly after those, but (5) ÉCLAIR POWER has hinted at ability across his three starts so far. He has got a bit far back in his races but should be running on strong here.  (7) CHANGJOUI GIDUNG and (3) HIGH END are potential improvers.

Selections(9) Breedo King Star (1) Geumseong Revere (5) Éclair Power (7) Changjoui Gidung
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 9

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

(9) BLAZING MAN will be the favourite here. He has shown steady improvement across his three starts so far, most recently when 4th over 1400M on March 22nd when racing on pace. He has finished ahead of a few of these already and he should be finishing ahead of all of them today. (3) THUNDER GUY comes in having finished a fair 4th on debut over 1200M on March 31st. The time wasn’t the quickest, but he should have benefitted from the experience and with some natural improvement, can go closer here. (4) HANEUL SINHWA dead-heated for 5th place behind Blazing Man last time out and can there or thereabouts again. (2) BEST BOY and (7) GOAT KING IJI among others to consider for the minors.

Selections(9) Blazing Man (3) Thunder Guy (4) Haneul Sinhwa (2) Best Boy
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 12

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

Fillies only and (2) JERAQUEEN will be a warm favourite here having made steady progress across her five starts so far, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1300M in a similar all-filly race on March 17th when leading almost all the way. She draws nicely to lead again and will be expected to go one better. (10) BEATRIZ enters having run an improved 3rd over this distance in February when racing on the pace. The same apprentice keeps her weight nice and light, and despite the wide draw, she can be on pace and in this again. (7) PINK WIND was one of those behind Jeraqueen on March 17th, but she has a 2nd place to her name and can be a factor here. (6) CHOGANGBULPAE and (5) MONEY TOUCH others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Jeraqueen (10) Beatriz (7) Pink Wind (6) Chogangbulpae
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(5) MORPHEUS is up in class having secured his maiden win at the sixth time of asking when stepped up to a mile and leading all the way on March 24th. He has performed well at this distance as well and while he doesn’t get much in the way of a weight break, he can be on pace again and can go back-to-back. (4) MOVIE MORE is yet to win in ten attempts, nine of hem at this distance but she comes in with a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two. She carries a light weight, draws well to challenge Morpheus for the early lead, and it could well be her day. (2) VELOCIRAPTOR was a winner at this class over 1300M two starts back. It may have been her first win on her twentieth start, but she has loads of experience at this level and this is the kind of company she can place among. The rest need to improve on recent form with (11) WONDERFUL CHEROKEE and (6) SINHAE MANGCHI perhaps the most likely.

Selections(5) Morpheus (4) Movie More (2) Velociraptor (11) Wonderful Cherokee
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

(9) YONGAM MARENGO finished down the field when sent off as favourite at class and distance on March 23rd. The margins weren’t huge though and we can give him another chance after two near-misses leading up to it. He can sit behind the speed and prove too strong late on. (6) RAON THE TAP has two placings at this class and enters off a fair 5th, ahead of Yongam Marengo in that March 23rd race. Moon Se-young stays aboard, and he will have plenty of backers here. (5) MEOTJIN GIROK has been working his way back into form and enters off a smart 2nd place at class and distance on March 17th. He is another with a strong finish who should be doing his best work late. (4) BULGEUN POKPUNG and (7) NAOL DAEWANG others to consider.

Selections(9) Yongam Marengo (6) Raon The Tap (5) Meotjin Girok (4) Bulgeun Pokpung
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (11) JAZZ STAR was a winner on debut over 1200M in an all-filly maiden on March 22nd when settling midfield and running on. She comes up in class and in distance here, but neither should be an issue, and, under a light weight, she can maintain her 100% start. (2) WONDERFUL CUTIE is the main danger. She was a winner at this class and distance in February – the only one in the field to have prevailed at 1400M – before running midfield in stiffer company than this and under 56kg last time out. She comes down in the weights here with an apprentice engaged, is drawn well, and she can return to form. (10) ARION QUEEN will need a line drawn through her latest over a mile but should be happier back in trip here. (7) NONSTOP DUTY and (1) CHIMING RUN others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Jazz Star (2) Wonderful Cutie (10) Arion Queen (7) Nonstop Duty
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 11

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

(3) ROYAL BEST got his maiden win over 1300M in January, making all, and has since been 4th on both tries at this class, both times having led. He draws nicely here, CC climbs aboard, and he can win. (2) JECHUK IHO remains a maiden but is yet to finish any worse than 4th after five starts last year. He hasn’t raced since last October but he looked very well when leading all the way in a trial at the start of this month, and from a good gate, he can put in a bold showing first-up. (9) HAEJE YEOGEOL got her maiden win two starts back before running 2nd on her first try at this class over 1200M on January 14th having led. She comes in fresh after fourteen weeks out and she can be in the hunt. (4) GOLDEN LINE and (6) TAMNA CHOEGANGJA others to consider.

Selections(3) Royal Best (2) Jechuk Iho (9) Haeje Yeogeol (4) Golden Line
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 8

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

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