Busan

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races at Busan from 11.25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Global Hit and Kim Hye-sun will be going around at Meydan on Friday night (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the first time. We will side with experience as (7) MEGA PLAY ran well on debut, overcoming a wide draw to eventually race handy and run on for 3rd place over this distance on December 22nd. That experience, and its potentially associated fitness edge, makes him the one to beat. Of the first timers, (12) QUEENS DRAGON went through two trials, improving significantly in terms of time in the second of them (a voluntary trial on December 14th behind Mother Road when clocking 62.8 seconds – beware, it may not appear on all racecards). She has the challenge of the widest gate but if she brings that form to the races, she is a chance. (8) STARTMAN raced handy in his trial, running on well for 2nd in a fair time and he too can put in a bold showing first up. Sole trial winner (10) DOCTOR LOUIS, along with (1) SPEED THIEF are others who hinted at ability in their respective heats.

Selections(7) Mega Play (12) Queens Dragon (8) Startman (10) Doctor Louis
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

A maiden for imported three-year-olds. (3) AMAZING KHAN ran 4th on debut on November 29th, beating a couple of these in the process, before improving to 2nd at start number two on December 27th, racing handy throughout and briefly leading close to the line. Crucially he had no fewer than seven of today’s rivals behind them, and from a good draw, he can be on pace and go one better. (2) EL CAZADOR was 3rd in that December 27th race, a big improvement from his debut. Like Amazing Khan, he runs for the third time so can have a fitness edge on most here and he draws a much better gate than in his first two outings. (1) MEETING ST has been 5th on both appearances to date, while (8) SELL LIKE was 4th in the September 27th race. The only one who didn’t race that day is the solitary debut maker. We will put (9) HIDDEN TIARA in the numbers because she looked well in two trials.

Selections(3) Amazing Khan (2) El Cazador (1) Meeting St (8) Sell Like
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

(11) FLYING ICE enters off a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, most recently beating plenty of these over this distance on December 29th when, as is his style, he settled right back and then ran on well. He does risk getting too far back, but he has to be favoured to go one better here. Should he leave himself too much to do, (5) SWORD WING can take advantage. After taking a few goes to figure things out, he has a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two, the latter being behind Flying Ice on December 29th. He too comes from off the pace and with only six starts behind him, may have some improvement.  If you think neither will get up, (4) YEOSU GUARDIAN may be the one to go for. He ran 3rd at this distance last time out and from a good draw can be on pace and force the favourites to try to come past. (7) DOCTOR CASTLE, who “lost interest” when favourite last time according to his jockey, and (9) SEOGWI PRINCESS are others in the frame.

Selections(11) Flying Ice (5) Sword Wing (4) Yeosu Guardian (7) Doctor Castle
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

One debut maker here, and (2) PLUTO did it very easily in his trial, cruising around on the bridle, leading all the way, and crossing the line plenty to the good. He draws beautifully, and if he brings that form to the races, he can win first up. (5) BEOLGYOUI HIM has mixed his form across four starts so far, with his best being his latest when 2nd at this distance on January 3rd, coming from off the pace. He makes a quick return here and he should be finishing strongly once more. (4) TOP OF THE TREE comes in off an improved 3rd place at start number three over this distance on November 17th. He comes in fresh after ten weeks out and from a good draw, can be on pace and in this a long way. (The form drops off significantly after those but Seo Seung-un climbing on (3) JEONGMUN FELIX will give him plenty of backers. (7) SUN JAE, who has been back to trial since debut, another minor money chance.

Selections(2) Pluto (5) Beolgyoui Him (4) Top Of The Tree (3) Jeongmun Felix
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

(10) MORNING DEW got his maiden win two starts back over this distance before running a close 3rd on his first try at this class on December 29th when settling midfield and running on. He draws a touch wider than ideal here, but he should have enough about him to get a forward position and if he does, he may take some beating. (3) SING FOR ME trialed up well and then ran out a winner on debut over this distance on December 27th, when slightly slowly away before being ridden up handy halfway and then running on. He comes up in class but comes down in weight and into a much better gate, and he can measure up in this company. (5) GRAND CHASER had a hard time last time out when wilting under a strong pace over 1400M. She comes back to the distance at which she got her win, and she is worth another chance here. (8) GOLDEN AIR and (12) DAEHOMA are others to consider.

Selections(10) Morning Dew (3) Sing For Me (5) Grand Chaser (8) Golden Air
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

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

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

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul, with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00 and at Busan, where there are 6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Can Seirene return to winning ways? (Pic: KRA)

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

(7) NICE WINNER ran 5th on debut in October when slowly away, before improving to 2nd at start number two on December 7th when leading for much of the way around. He will lead again here and will be the warm favourite to go one better. Second favourite will be (1) IMRO. After a fair trial, he ran a solid 4th of eleven over this distance on debut on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. He should have come on for that run and from a great draw, can get closer this time. (5) MUNHAK CHUKJE came from off the pace on his debut to run 4th. He too can have derived benefit from that experience and can improve here. (9) WONDERFUL CATHAY and (2) JOSE others who have hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Nice Winner (1) Imro (5) Munhak Chukje (9) Wonderful Cathay
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 11

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

Moon Se-young will be aboard another short price favourite. (11) GRAND KWAEMA has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from three starts so far, most recently at this distance on December 14th when settling midfield and running on. He has the fastest time among these for the 1300M and won’t need to improve much to win here. (10) YEOMYEONGUI SUNGAN was an encouraging 4th on debut at 1200M on December 7th, settling back and running on. She drew the same wide gate that day and the slight step up in trip can suit. (5) COMMAND BLUE has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and she can continue to make progress here. (9) BREEDO KING STAR and (3) CHEONGRYONGUI CAL among others in the placing frame.

Selections(11) Grand Kwaema (10) Yeomyeongui Sungan (5) Command Blue (9) Breedo King Star
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 11

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

Moon Se-young could really be having a proper day out early on Sunday as he is on another warm favourite here in the shape of (11) DRAGON KILLER. He came from well off the pace to run 2nd on debut over 1200M on December 22nd and while he once more draws wide, the way he finished off suggests that the additional half furling can be in his favour and he can go one better today. (7) RAON NOTHERN DANCE got a long way back on debut but has since run 3rd and 4th, most recently over this distance on December 22nd. He can settle just behind the speed and be a danger here. (6) HEUNGHAENG DOLPUNG has finished midfield in both starts so far but is another who may benefit from a slightly increased trip and third-up, he can be peaking fitness wise. (9) MERIT SUNSHINE and (3) CHRYSOL MAJOR others to consider.

Selections(11) Dragon Killer (7) Raon Nothern Dance (6) Heunghaeng Dolpung (9) Merit Sunshine
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 10

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (8) B.K DANCING GIRL was an eye-catching trial winner, causing her to be sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on November 29th. She led for most of the way but ultimately got caught and ended up in 3rd place. She’s had seven weeks off since then, she should lead again, and this time she can go all the way. It’s not a strong set of rivals. (7) COME ON GLORY and (5) ROAD TO SPRING came home 5th and 6th when they raced each other on the latter’s debut on December 13th. The former has races once since, struggling over 1400M two weeks ago, but back at this trip both can be in the place hunt. (11) QUEEN TYCHE and (2) WONDER ROAD others who may improve without really inspiring much confidence.

Selections(8) B.K Dancing Girl (7) Come On Glory (5) Road To Spring (11) Queen Tyche
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 8

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

Fillies and mares only here. (7) TOHOMARKET is yet to win in eleven attempts but after back-to-back runner-up finishes to get promoted to this level, she has finished no worse than 4th in four class 5 outings. In this company, she can sit just behind the speed and today could be her day. (5) RED DRAGON came from well off the pace to win over 1200M on her debut on December 14th. She comes up in class and marginally in trip, but she is down in the weights, draws well, and Moon climbs on. (10) SINHAN ACE was runner-up on debut but got her maiden win at start number two on December 21st, over 1200M. She too comes up in class and distance but is down in weight and can measure up. (3) TOUCH CHARM and (8) QUEEN ABIGAIL are the other logical placing chances.

Selections(7) Tohomarket (5) Red Dragon (10) Sinhan Ace (3) Touch Charm
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

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

(1) TOHAMSAN TAEYANG was a much-improved 2nd over 1300M on December 22nd, settling midfield and running on. She comes up to 1400M for the first time today and with a bit more improvement, she can go one better. (2) RIGHT CHAMP has been knocking on the door across her five starts to date with the best being a 2nd place at this distance. She was slow away last time but draws better here to be on pace and is a real chance. (9) BLACK EQUUS got a long way back on debut but ran on pleasingly enough for a midfield finish. She should have derived benefit from that experience and can go closer today. (7) WORLD TAEYANG and (5) HANEULPYEONGJEONG are the other place chances.

Selections(1) Tohamsan Taeyang (2) Right Champ (9) Black Equus (7) World Taeyang
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 4

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

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (January 12)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:05 to 16:30). Here are the previews:

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

Maiden fillies in the opener. Two race for the first time and we’ll take a chance on one of them with (1) BISANG DAY. She qualified with a solid 3rd place in a December trial in a fair time having led through the early stages. She draws nicely to lead here and couldn’t ask for a softer race to debut in. The favourite will be (10) UNJU TIME. She ran a solid 4th of eleven on debut over this distance in a similar filly only maiden on December 14th, settling back and running on. She should have derived benefit from that and with some natural improvement, has every chance. (3) KARA K improved to 5th at start number two over 1000M in October. She comes in here fresh after thirteen weeks out and can be in the mix here. (9) HIGH CLASS and the other debut maker (8) POWER BAND are others to consider.

Selections(1) Bisang Day (10) Unju Time (3) Kara K (9) High Class
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 9

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

(7) HYEUKMUSANG got promoted to this class with back-to-back runner-up finishes in his first two outings, both at 1200M, before running 6th in a competitive race on his first try at this class on November 30th. The slight step up in trip can suit, Kozzi climbs on, and he can win here. (9) WANGCHOEGO is also yet to win but comes up in class following a very narrow defeat in a decent time over 1200M on December 7th. He finished off very well so should be ready for another crack at this distance and down in the weights, has every chance of going close. (1) CUPID HEART was a maiden winner at start four over 1200M on December 14th. It wasn’t a quick race, but he won well and can measure up in this company. (8) JURING SKY and (4) WONDERFUL SEEKING others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Hyeukmusang (9) Wangchoego (1) Cupid Heart (8) Juring Sky
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap

(5) ECLIPSE THE KING got his maiden win at start number four on December 8th when he raced on pace for the first time and went on to score comfortably over 1300M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be an issue, and he can win again here. (2) GANGNARU ran 3rd in his first two starts before getting his maiden win at outing three on December 14th, racing handy throughout over 1300M. He already has a place at this distance to his name and up in class but well drawn, he can more than measure up. (10) APPLE STYLE will need a line drawn through his first effort at this class, but he is a winner at this distance as recently as November and CC climbing up is in his favour. (9) B.K. BELLE and (7) PINK GOLD others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Eclipse The King (2) Gangnaru (10) Apple Style (9) B.K. Belle
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) WANNABE WITH YOU came from off the pace to run 3rd on debut in a filly only maiden on December 8th. She should have come on for that experience, the additional trip can suit, and she is the one to beat. Her debut was perhaps marginally more impressive than that of (9) INDY GHOST. Nevertheless, the latter acquitted herself when similarly 3rd first up over 1300M on December 20th, also settling back and running on. She too should appreciate the slight step up in trip and she is the main danger. (6) CARIBBEAN BAY was 4th n debut and then beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 6th of twelve over 1300M on December 13th and that’s enough to make him clear third pick here. (2) FAST QUEEN and (1) GLORY WIND other minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Wannabe With You (9) Indy Ghost (6) Caribbean Bay (2) Fast Queen
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 11

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

(9) WESTERN GUN was a dominant winner on debut over 1400M in October before running 2nd on his first try at this class, again over the seven-furlongs, on his first try at this class on December 14th, racing handy. He steps up to two turns for the first time, but there is no reason why it can’t suit, and he is very much the one to beat. (10) MK LEE enters following three consecutive 3rd place finishes at this class and distance. He has the challenge of the widest gate but he does have the fastest time among these for the 1700M and should be in the mix again. (11) K POWERFUL was 4th being Western Gun in that December 14th race and he also steps up to two turns for the first time. The widest gate isn’t ideal, but if he can find a decent position early, he can be in the finish. (1) MAX WEEK and (2) GANDAGO, both last start winners, the former at this class and distance, are others to consider.

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

The 2025 racing season gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:25 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

2024 Horse of the Year Global Hit arrived in Seoul on Thursday for pre-export quarantine ahead of travelling to Dubai (Pic: KRA)

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

The 2025 racing season kicks off with a maiden with two of the eleven racing for the first time. (6) DOCTOR KAREN ran an improved 4th at start number two when she led for much of the way around over this distance. She weakened late and the time was slow, but she showed enough to suggest that in this company she can lead again and will be the one to beat. (11) JEONGMUN FELIX went through two trials in fair times, improving to 3rd in the second of them. He has the challenge of the widest gate but if he brings that trial form, he can go close first-up. The other debut-maker, (2) HANEUL BOSS, is the next best. He was a solid 5th of nine in his trial in a decent time and from a good draw has nothing to fear in this field. Returning to the first timers, (7) BEOLGYOUI HIM and (3) HANNAM QUEEN may be the best of a very limited rest.

Selections(6) Doctor Karen (11) Jeongmun Felix (2) Haneul Boss (7) Beolgyoui Him
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 11

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

(1) SHACKLE LAUD has been knocking at the door in his lates three and comes into a much better gate this time than when he drew the widest when 4th at this distance on December 13th. Tanaka climbs on and he is the one to beat. That will mean overturning the form on (8) PINE BLUE, who was 3ed in that December 13th race. That was an uptick in form, and he can maintain his momentum here. (2) EAST SUN has steadily improved across three starts so far culminating in a 3rd place in an all-filly maiden at this distance on December 6th. From a very good draw, she can be on pace, and she can be in this a long way. (3) DIVINE KINGDOM and (4) HI LEGEND other place chances.

Selections(1) Shackle Laud (8) Pine Blue (2) East Sun (3) Divine Kingdom
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

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

Fillies and mares only in this maiden. (11) TEAM SURPRISE has been getting closer and closer across her seven starts to date and comes in following a 3rd place at this distance on November 24th when she was ridden a bit further forward than in other recent outings. Despite the widest draw, expect similar tactics today and she can win. (3) DREAMMA is yet to finish in the top two but has no fewer than seven finishes between 3rd and 5th. In this company and drawn well, she can be expected to be on pace, and she shapes as the main danger. (9) SINCHEON FREEDOM picked up at start number three when 5th at 1200M on December 20th and with Munro booked for the first time, can go closer today. (4) COME ON GLORY and (8) GOLDMASK are the other placing chances.

Selections(11) Team Surprise (3) Dreamma (9) Sincheon Freedom (4) Come On Glory
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

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

(1) YONGBI PAEWANG registered back-to-back 3rd place finishes in Listed juvenile company in September and October before finishing in midfield in the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie in November. He is yet to win but has shown enough against promising horses to suggest that back in more amenable company, he can win. (10) ALL TIME LEGEND is also winless having been promoted to this class with a pair of runner-up finishes from his first two starts before running 3rd on his first try at this level at 1200M on December 1st. He comes up in trip here but should be a danger late on again. (2) BIG JAWS comes up in class having won over 1200M on December 1st and well-drawn and down in weight, can measure up. (4) HYPER FORCE and (11) GOLDEN NICE others to consider.

Selections(1) Yongbi Paewang (10) All Time Legend (2) Big Jaws (4) Hyper Force
Next Best11, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

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

(11) NINETY PLUS will be a warm favourite here. The Instagrand colt comes in having run 2nd at this class and distance back on November 24th and having previously finished 2nd in Listed juvenile company, he is very much the one to beat. (3) BABEL DREAMY enters off back-to-back runner-up finishes most recently beating a few of these over this distance on December 6th when coming from well off the pace. Yet to win from fourteen starts, she has no fewer than five 2nd place finishes, and she should be in the mix again. (9) HOLY RUN is yet to finish outside of the top four from five attempts and in this company should be there or thereabouts again without looking a winning chance. (10) BLACK SPEED and (5) NANGMAN DAERO are other place chances.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (December 29)

The final race day of 2024 is on Sunday with an 11-race card at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and a 6 race card at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but two racing for the first time. (3) TEUKGEUP PARTY was the quickest in trials, finishing 4th in her heat behind three experienced racehorses having settled midfield and run on. She draws well here and has every chance first up. (2) FLYING DAY went through a slower trial but more than held her own with a close 3rd running on well. Drawn well and with Moon Se-young booked, she will have plenty of backers. One of the two with racing experience is (7) JUNMA FORCE. She debuted fairly when 5th over 1300M on November 30th and that experience should give her the edge over most of the newcomers. Returning to the debut makers, (4) GYEOUL JANGMI and trial winner (9) NAEGILUI ACE look the next best.

Selections(3) Teukgeup Party (2) Flying Day (7) Junma Force (4) Gyeoul Jangmi
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

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

(3) POWER MONSTER has made good progress across three starts so far, culminating in a close 2nd place over 1200M on November 30th when settling midfield and running on. The slight step up in trip can suit, and he can go one better today. (11) RAON SILENCE ran a solid 4th on debut over this distance on November 30th when beginning well then dropping back before rallying well. She should have come on for that run and she will be disputing favourite status here. (2) MEGA STEP has two 3rd places to her name among five starts. She can get a bit far back in her races but draws well to sit behind the speed and pressure late. (8) FOX TROT and (5) TAEGISAN KING are other place chances.

Selections(3) Power Monster (11) Raon Silence (2) Mega Step (8) Fox Trot
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 6

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

(2) DOCTOR CASTLE didn’t do a lot on debut but was much improved at start number two over 1400M on November 1st when coming from off the pace and finishing strongly for 2nd place, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. The step up to a mile should be in his favour and he is the one to beat. The unkindly named (9) FAT BOY has five top-five finishes among his nine starts. He has been doing his best work late in his races and is another for who the additional distance can suit. (12) FLYING ICE beat three of these when coming from a long way back to run 3rd at 1400M on December 6th. He has a 4th already over the mile and in this company should be aiming for at least the places. (5) SWORD WING and (3) CLOUD LOVE are other place chances.

Selections(2) Doctor Castle (9) Fat Boy (12) Flying Ice (5) Sword Wing
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) WITH DIS KURO has made progress over four starts so far culminating in a 2nd place when sent up to this distance for the first time on October 19th, leading for much of the way. He comes in fresh following ten weeks off and should have too much here. (10) MERIT SUNSHINE beat three of these on her way to 3rd place on her first try at this distance on November 30th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and with CC climbing up, she shapes as the main danger. (2) ROPPONGI DRAGON ran on too late on debut over 1200M on December 7th. He should have learned plenty from that and from a better draw and up in trip, can go much closer here. (4) SUN GALLANT and (3) NAEGILUIYEONGGWANG are others to consider.

Selections(9) With Dis Kuro (10) Merit Sunshine (2) Roppongi Dragon (4) Sun Gallant
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

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

(5) YOUNG SKYWALKER has been the beaten favourite in all three of his outings so far, with two 2nd places and a 3rd. He has been on pace on each occasion but just hasn’t managed to finish off. He comes up in class today but that actually may work out well for him as he is down in weight and there isn’t too much to fear. He gets another chance. (1) GRAND CHASER stepped up to this distance for the first time on November 29th and ran a solid 2nd place. She comes into a much better gate and third-up this preparation, she may be peaking fitness wise. (12) WORLD WINNERS MAN has been working his way back towards a second win with a runner-up finish at this class and distance on November 22nd his latest and while he has the challenge of the widest gate, he can be dangerous. (10) BLUE POINT and the up in class (4) STEROPES are others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Young Skywalker (1) Grand Chaser (12) World Winner s Man (10) Blue Point
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 27)

The last weekend of racing of 2024 gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

A last chance for these juvenile maidens to get a win on the board in their first year and six of the ten are racing for the very first time. We’ll go with a first timer and (2) MISSOURI CHAMP, who went through a couple of trials, improving significantly to win the second of them, settling midfield and running on in a fair time. If she brings that form to the races, she has every chance in this field at a likely good price. Punters will probably side with experience though. (6) BARBELL MOMO was a solid 4th on debut, coming from off the pace on December 1st and can have come in for that. (1) BREEDO COMET has raced twice with a 3rd and a 5th to his name. He comes into a good gate and can have a fitness edge on plenty of these. (8) GWANGPUNG STAR and (4) GLOBAL HEROINE others who hinted at ability on their respective debuts.

Selections(2) Missouri Champ (6) Barbell Momo (1) Breedo Comet (8) Gwangpung Star
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported juvenile maidens here with three of the nine racing for the first time. (8) OASIS POWER is the only one to have raced twice before and he has registered a 3rd and a 2nd in two promising efforts, most recently over 1200M on November 29th when slow away before finishing very quickly and beating three of today’s rivals. He is the one to beat here.  (1) MEETING ST was actually sent off at a shorter price than Oasis Power in that November 29th race. That was on the strength of his trial win in a quick time and while he only managed 5th place on debut, he should have come on for the run and can be a threat here. (2) AMAZING KHAN was 4th in that same November 29th race and can similarly improve here. (3) SMART SHAMAL and debut maker (6) GEUDAEMANUI BLUE are others to consider.

Selections(8) Oasis Power (1) Meeting St (2) Amazing Khan (3) Smart Shamal
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

(2) FLASH RUN will be the favoruite here. He’s raced twice, with a 2nd and a 4th to his name at 1000M and 1300M. He has been a bit slow away on both starts so far but from a good gate he can be handy early, and this time should be too good. (11) CANCAN STEP come sin off a much-improved 2nd place at 1400M on November 29th and can be a danger here. (12) RAON FLATTER has the challenge of the widest gate but was 4th in that November 29th race and seems to be on the right trajectory. (9) RIGHT CHAMP has a 2nd on his record and can be there or thereabouts on his day. (3) QUEEN TYCHE another in the frame having improved last time.

Selections(2) Flash Run (11) Cancan Step (12) Raon Flatter (9) Right Champ
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start3, 6, 9 12

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) SIX HERO has loitered about the places across his four starts so far, most recently with a 3rd place at this distance on December 1st. He likes to lead, and he can do precisely that here, and he can go all the way. (11) GREAT MARU has made steady progress across four starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place in an all-filly maiden on November 1st. She has shown good late speed and she can be a danger late here. (12) SING FOR ME is interesting. He is one of three first time starters, but he looked very well in trials when runner-up in one in a fair time. It has become more than a cliché now, but if he brings that form to the races, he will be in this. (1) HANEUL POKPUNG and (7) B.K DREAM are the others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Six Hero (11) Great Maru (12) Sing For Me (1) Haneul Pokpung
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 11

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

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (December 22)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 11:25 to 18:00). Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (2) WONDERFUL REASON ran a solid 4th on debut before using up a lot of energy to get to the front from a wide draw at start number two on November 17th, ultimately weakening. Third-up and from a much better gate, he is worth another chance. He will dispute the early lead with (8) ROAD TO A SPUR, wo improved to 5th on his second start when racing on-pace. CC climbs up today and he can be in this a long way again. (4) CHAMP HAMSEONG ran a fair 5th on debut at this distance and with some natural improvement can get closer. None of the debut-makers inspired much confidence in trials but (7) IMRO was the best looking and he will have supporters. (12) UGWANGMYEONG also hinted at ability.

Selections(2) Wonderful Reason (8) Road To Spur (4) Champ Hamseong (7) Imro
Next Best12, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 8

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

(6) HANMADIMALDO was somewhat surprisingly given his chance in the Listed NACF Chairman’s Trophy for juveniles in October and he exceeded expectations by running a very solid 6th place, not far away from the placings in a quick time over 1200M. That’s more than enough to make him a warm favourite ahead of this limited set of opponents. (4) BEATRIZ is the only one in the field to have placed with two 3rds to her name, both at this trip and she can be the main danger. (5) LUCKY FAMOUS had a poor day at the office from a wide gate last time out but he does have a 4th place on his record and from a good draw can be considered. (8) BLACK RUSSIAN and (2) EAST SKY others who may have a say.

Selections(6) Hanmadilmaldo (4) Beatriz (5) Lucky Famous (8) Black Russian
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 11

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

Juveniles with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (7) ROAD TO ACE ran a good 3rd on a decent time on debut over this distance on November 3rd, settling just behind the speed and running on well. Expect similar tactics here and he won’t need to improve much to win this. (12) GLOBAL HIGH similarly ran 3rd on debut over this distance on November 8th, racing handy throughout. He has the challenge of the widest gate here but can be a danger. (5) CHOEGANG TRIPLE was sent off as favourite on his first start on November 22nd having won a trial and while he only managed 4th, he showed enough to suggest he can improve second-up. Among the debut-makers, (6) QUEEN LIRUN looks the most likely to make and immediate impact while (4) FIRST INTENSION may have spelling challenges but improved in the second of two trials and can improve again first-up.

Selections(7) Road To Ace (12) Global High (5) Choegang Triple (6) Queen Lirun
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

Decent maiden. (4) HAKSAN CAIRO has two 3rd places and a 5th from three starts so far, most recently on his first try at this distance on November 17th when ridden more forward than in his first two outings. He draws nicely here, Moon Se-young rides for the first time, and he is a chance. The betting favourite will be (3) CHEONGSAN JILJU. In five appearances he has never finished any worse than 5th with his latest being his best, when 2ns at this distance in a quick time on November 24th. He was ridden on-pace that day and drawn very well here, will probably be similarly handled, and he can win. (7) RAON NOTHERN DANCE was an improved 3rd at bid odds at start number two on November 16th and with an apprentice keeping his carried weight light, he can be a place threat again. (8) CYCLONE STAR and (1) SEMYEONG STRONG others who can be in the mix.

Selections(4) Haksan Cairo (3) Cheongsan Jilju (7) Raon Nothern Dance (8) Cyclone Star
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 8

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

(5) DUSTIN MARINE was slow away on debut before running on to finish in midfield but at start number two over 1400M on November 24th he went straight to the lead before weakening a little late and ending up 4th. Third-up he can be peaking and form a good draw can be on pace again and slightly back in trip, he can win. He doesn’t face an intimidating set of opponents. (3) SUCCESS COW’s best was a 5th on debut when posting a good time over 1200M. His subsequent two efforts have only been fair, but he draws better today and can be a danger. (9) WONDERFUL FORTUNE ran a creditable 5th place on debut in October and can improve. (6) BURUI PYEONGHWA and (10) WIDAEHAN YAKSOK other place chances.

Selections(5) Dustin Marine (3) Success Cow (9) Wonderful Fortune (6) Burui Pyeonghwa
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

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

(7) WONDERFUL NORTHERN ran 3rd in the Listed Munhwa Ilbo Trophy in September and then got this maiden win at this distance a month later when leading all the way. He then went to Busan for the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie and ran a fair 7th of sixteen. That takes his resume significantly higher than his rivals here and he will be a short price favourite. (11) RISING MO was a winner on debut at 1000M in August and has since run three times at this level, placing twice. Most recently she was 2nd over 1200M on November 17th and while she is up to this trip for the first time, her running style suggests it can suit. (5) ECLIPSE EDGE is up in Class having got his maiden win at start number three over 1300M on November 23rd. He likes to come from off the pace and should be ready for the step up in trip. (3) HANGANG CAPTAIN and (1) CHEONJI SKY others in the frame.

Selections(7) Wonderful Northern (11) Rising Mo (5) Eclipse Edge (3) Hangang Captain
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 20)

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

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Maiden juvenile fillies with six of the eleven racing for the first time.  We’ll take a chance on a newcomer as (6) QUEENS DRAGON went through two trials, improving significantly in the second of them just last week (it was a voluntary trial so may not appear in all racecards) when starting slowly but running on strongly for 2nd in a quick time, albeit thirteen-lengths behind two-time winner Mother Road. So long as she didn’t leave her race there, she has an excellent chance. (1) FLYING MENACE ran 2nd on debut over 1200M on November 29th settling midfield and running on. The time wasn’t quick, but she should have come on for that and is a danger. (5) QUEEN RACE has raced twice already, registering a 5th and a 4th. She can have the edge on these fitness-wise and can improve again. (7) PURE MARINE did nothing on debut but should have learned from the experience and draws much better this time. Returning to the debut-makers, (3) WORLD LIST CAT hinted at ability in her trial.

Selections(6) Queens Dragon (1) Flying Menace (5) Queen Race (7) Pure Marine
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

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

More juvenile maiden fillies although with only one newcomer this time. (12) SUCCESS GOLD has finished 4th, a 2nd and a 3rd in three starts so far, most recently coming from off the pace and running on over this distance. She has the challenge of the widest gate here but won’t need to improve much to win this. (4) FANTASTIC HIT raced twice in the summer for a 5th and a 4th, both over 1000M. She’s had five months off and didn’t offer too many clues in a trial at the end of November but drawn well in this company, she can be considered. (1) B.K MAGIC will need a lone drawn through her latest two weeks ago when knocking up quickly over 1300M. Going on her 2nd place on November 10th when she led, she warrants another chance here. (2) CRUELLA and (8) ILLUSION other placing chances.

Selections(12) Success Gold (4) Fantastic Hit (1) B.K Magic (2) Cruella
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

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

(8) COWBOY MAN has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two at this distance and most recently at a mile on November 22nd when he led for much of the way around. Munro returns to the ride, and he can lead again, and this time go all the way. (4) WONDERFUL JONES comes in off a smart 2nd place over this distance on November 24th when breaking fairly and settling handy. That was his best finish so far and from a good draw, expect similar tactics today. (6) DAEGIL HERO has run 3rd in both his two starts so far, both over 1200M. He has posted fast final furlong times and the step up in trip can suit. (3) OASIS GREEN hinted at improvement when 5th at start number three last time out and along with (10) PINOT POWER, shapes as the other logical chance.

Selections(8) Cowboy Man (4) Wonderful Jones (6) Daegil Hero (3) Oasis Green
Next Best10, 12
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

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

(10) CATCH THE DREAM was a winner on debut in an all-filly maiden over 1200M on October 18th, leading all the way, before running 4th on her first try at this class and distance on November 22nd when she showed on pace again and beat a couple of today’s rivals. She draws a touch wider than ideal but with all the early speed drawn wide, she should have enough about her to find a forward position again, and she can win. (1) GRAND DREAM enters off a 4th place at class and distance on November 9th when leading for most of the race. He draws well to get forward again and he should be in this a long way. Continuing the “dream” theme, (8) MY DREAM DAY went around in the G2 Breeders’ Cup Rookie for juveniles four weeks ago and gets a pass for finishing last. Previously he ran 4th in the Listed Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy and back in more amenable company is worth another chance. (11) WORLD HIT and (6) SKY SEUNG others in the frame.

Selections(10) Catch The Dream (1) Grand Dream (8) My Dream Day (11) World Hit
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start8, 10, 11, 12

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

(6) DONGNAM GANGTAJA will be a warm favourite here. A facile maiden winner two starts back over this distance, he then ran 3rd over 1400M on November 22nd, settling handy and running on, He can sit behind the speed here and may take some beating. After a maiden win at start number two, (5) BLUE THUNDER stepped up to this class on November 1st and ran a good 3rd, a long way behind winner Beolmaui Angel but comfortably beating a couple of today’s rivals. He draws well, Tanaka gets on, and he should be on pace and in this a very long way. (10) POWER WAGON got a long way back last time but has won at this trip and with a better start can be a factor here. (4) BEST PRIME and (2) ROAD TO THUNDER are others in contention.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (December 15)

Sunday’s racing is at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00 and at Busan with 6 races from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens with six of the twelve racing for the first time. Experience is preferred though and (11) NURI CHEONWANG came from off the pace to run 2nd on debut over this distance on November 10th, well beaten by a good winner, but showing more than enough to suggest he has potential. She should have come on for that run and can prove too strong late here. (8) DIXIE MAN ran 3rd on his debut at this distance on November 2nd, settling midfield and running on. The time was slower than that of Nuri Choegang but with Moon Se-young climbing on, he will be vying for favourite status. (2) BEOLGYO LAVA ran 4th on his first outing on November 2nd, overcoming a wide draw. He comes into a better gate today and like the other two, should have come on for the run. Among the first timers, (12) MUSKET DAY and (3) RYAN HEART looked the best in trials.

Selections(11) Nuri Cheonwang (8) Dixie Man (2) Beolgyo Lava (12) Musket Day
Next Best3, 4,
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 12

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

Fillies only in this maiden and (6) I AM GO will be the warm favourite. She registered a 4th and a 2nd in two tries at 1000M which led her to be sent off as favourite on her first try at this distance on November 9th when she was on pace early only to ultimately run 5th. She should have learned from that and can win here from the front. That will mean overturning the form on (9) B.K LOVE, who ran a significantly improved 2nd in that November 9th race, leading for much of the way around. She can be on pace again and in this a long way. (1) CHOCO BEAUTY is another with a best of 2nd place, in her case recorded two starts back at this distance when also recording the fastest time among those here who have already tackled the 1300M. From the inside gate, she can sit behind the early speed and run on. (2) UPPERHAND and (8) P N S PA are other placing chances.

Selections(6) I Am Go (9) B.K Love (1) Choco Beauty (2) Upperhand
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the seven racing for the first time. (9) WIND FREE ran 2n don debut over 1200M on November 22nd, settling towards the rear of midfield before steadily improving. She should have derived benefit from the experience, the additional half furlong can suit, and she is favoured to go one better. Of the newcomers, (1) SEOBU GAMBLE looks the best. He ran 3rd in a fair time in his trial and with franco on and from the inside gate, he can put in a bold showing first up. (4) GRAND CRU has raced twice, improving to 2nd in the second of them behind Wind Free on November 22nd. He looks to be on the right trajectory and can continue to make progress here. (2) SEOUL DRAGON and (7) DAEJI DAEBONG the other probably place hopes.

Selections(9) Wind Free (1) Seobu Gamble (4) Grand Cru (2) Seoul Dragon
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 8

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

(6) PROCEED is yet to finish in the top two in eight attempts but has no fewer than six finishes between 3rd and 5th. He comes back in trip following a 4th place over 1700M on November 9th, and from a central draw he can be on pace and should be aiming for a career to date best finish here. (5) GANDAGO came from off the pace to run 2nd in an all-filly race over 1300M on November 17th, her best so far. She has a strong finish on her, the slight additional distance can suit, and she can be a big danger late here. (8) CRAZE CHANG was well back over this distance on his return from four months out in October. He should strip fitter here and can be in the placing mix. Without a huge amount of confidence, (3) AMENO and (1) COMMANDING LEAD are possibly the best of a limited rest.

Selections(6) Proceed (5) Gandago (8) Craze Chang (3) Ameno
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

(9) MIRAGE ran 3rd on debut on October 18th before improving to 2nd at start number two on November 17th, both over this distance and both times racing handy to the speed. She comes in under the same weight, the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she will be a warm favourite to make it third time lucky. (4) FAST MELODY improved to 3rd at start number two at 1300M on November 10th. It wasn’t a quick race, but she showed good early speed, and she can be challenging right from the start here. The form falls off precipitously after those two. (3) BABEL COME ON was 5th on debut over 1000M and at least managed to show on the early speed before fading second-up. Munro climbs on and that combined with a good draw is enough to make her an each-way chance. (2) GOD NIKE and (10) HANNAM QUEEN others who may – may – improve.

Selections(9) Mirage (4) Fast Melody (3) Babel Come On (2) God Nike
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 9

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

(8) STUNNING PEARL ran 3rd on debut before getting her maiden win at start number two in an all0filly maiden on November 9th over 1200M when she settled handy before romping away to score by as many as she pleased. She comes up in class and slightly in distance, but neither should be an issue, and she can win again. (7) ANYANG GIPPEUM was a winner two starts back over 1200M before running a solid 4th in a similarly competitive race at this class and distance on November 16th when she led for much of the way around having got across from gate eleven. She draws slightly better this time and can be in this again. (1) BLUE RACER returns to action for the first time since his maiden win in July. He won a trial in August and while he will have to be taken on trust match fitness-wise, he was first=up for that August race and can go well again. (10) GLOBAL TIME and (4) SHINE BOLT other placing chances.

Selections(8) Stunning Pearl (7) Anyang Gippeum (1) Blue Racer (10) Global Time
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 7, 10, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

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

Franco Da Silva has plenty of Friday chances (Pic: KRA)

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

Maiden juvenile fillies in the opener with precisely half of the field racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (7) BROWN ROOKIE ran 2nd on debut, settling midfield and running on over this distance at the end of September when well beaten by Huimang Rani, who went on to win at class 5 before coming unstuck last week at class 4. She’s had eleven weeks off so comes in fresh and can win. Also 2nd on debut was (9) EMPIRE DAY. That was all the way back in June and it was at 1000M, but it was a quick time, and she looked well enough when midfield in a decent trial in November. Of the first timers, (6) ROCK CANDY looked the best in trials showing on pace and running a close 3rd in a fair time. If she brings that form to the races, she can be close. (10) ROAD TO SPRING also hinted at ability in her trial, while (1) GREAT LUCKY underperformed on debut but previously trialed well and gets another chance.

Selections(7) Brown Rookie (9) Empire Day (6) Rock Candy (10) Road To Spring
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 10

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

(12) SHACKLE LAUD has made steady progress across four outings so far, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on November 10th when handy throughout and running on. He has the challenge of the widest gate, but he doesn’t need to lead (not that there is any early speed in this race), and he has a strong finish on him. He can go one better today. (1) HOLY RUN has finished no worse than 4th across his four starts to date and enters off a 2nd and a 3rd at his latest two over this distance and 1400M. He has the fastest time among these for the 1300M and from a great draw, he has every chance. (8) CARIBBEAN BAY is the least experienced in the race but finished a fair 4th on debut at 1200M on November 8th, having been slowly away and then run on. He should have come on for that run and can get closer here. (2) GWANGSOKMA and (10) CAPTAIN KOREA among others in the frame.

Selections(12) Shackle Laud (1) Holy Run (8) Caribbean Bay (2) Gwangsokma
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 11

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

(8) RALLY MAN comes in having run 2nd on his first try at this distance on November 22nd when close to the pace throughout and beating three of today’s rivals in the process. He also has a 3rd and a 4th on his record and in another race with no early speed to think of, he can get a soft run to the front and can go all the way. (2) USANG RYUNG also has a 2nd place to her name over the mile, recorded back in August. She enters off a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two and from a good draw, can be a danger here. (7) FATE ran a fair 5th on debut over 1300M on November 17th, settling midfield and running on. He steps up in trip but should have come on for that run and with some natural improvement can compete in this company. (1) GOLDMASK and (9) GOLDEN NICE are other placing chances.

Selections(8) Rally Man (2) Usang Ryung (7) Fate (1) Goldmask
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 10

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

(9) WATER DRAGON has never finished outside the top five and has a 2nd at this class over a mile. He ran 5th of twelve in a decent time on his only try at this distance last time out coming from well off the pace but in this company, he should be further forward, and he has every chance. (4) MAENGNYONG has run 2nd in both outings to date at 1300M, leading both times. He is up in class but down in weight and from a great draw he can lead again and potentially go all the way. (8) TRIPLE SINHWA has been the beaten favourite in both his starts so far, both times finishing as runner-up over this distance having led. He comes up in class here, but his times have been more than competitive for this level and coming down in the weights, he can lead again, and this time get it right. (3) TAMNA SUPER is up in class after a solid maiden win and can be competitive. Second-up (12) ASTIN MARINE among plenty of others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Water Dragon (4) Maengnyong (8) Triple Sinhwa (3) Tamna Super
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

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