Busan

Donga Ilbo Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 22)

The Queens’ Tour Spring/Summer gets underway on Sunday with the Donga Ilbo (1800M KOR-Listed) for fillies and mares attracting a very competitive field of fourteen. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11;25 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Gladius won the Donga Ilbo last year (Pic: KRA)

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

Competitive maiden to start with. (1) TOUR FELIX returned from almost a year out on February 8th and despite not having done much in two trials, put in a very solid effort in 3rd place over this distance. He should stop fitter for that run, and he can win here. (3) GLOBAL LAND has a 3rd and a 4th from her latest two at 1200M and 1400M coming from off the pace in the first of them and racing handy in the latter. She has a smart finish on her and can challenge late here. (10) ONNURI BIT has a 5th and two 3rd places from three outings to date. She comes up slightly in trip for the first time and it can suit. (6) WONDERFUL CHIEF and (11) VINCENT ALEX others who can aim for the places.

Selections(1) Tour Felix (3) Global Land (10) Onnuri Bit (6) Wonderful Chief
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 10

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

(2) HAKSAN HENNY has a pair of 4th places to his name, coming from well off the pace both times. He steps up slightly in trip to 1400M for the first time and it could be what he needs to get home on top. (4) HWARANGSAN JEONGGI could finally be figuring things out with a 4th and a 2nd from his latest two, both over this trio. He is another who likes to go right back and run on and with an apprentice claim, he carries a light weight. (5) KIA ORA had a hard time over 1700M three weeks ago but prior to that ran 2nd at this distance on January 4th and can be in the mix again. (10) DOUBLE BLADE and (7) VALKYRIE are the other two who can be considered for a place.

Selections(2) Haksan Henny (4) Hwarangsan Jeonggi (5) Kia Ora (10) Double Blade
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start5, 6, 9, 10

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

(8) KISS THE RAIN has proven green in just about every one of her five starts to date but regardless of that she hasn’t been far away in her last couple of runs. She eventually tested the patience of the stewards enough to be sent back to the trials, however in that trial on February 26 she was impressive leading throughout to score by eight-lengths. She looks a good chance of leading and staying there providing she stays on the straight and narrow. (4) WORLD EAGLE CAT needs to bounce back from a basic run last time, but her prior effort would give her a chance, however it must be noted that in that contest she effectively hung her chance, if not victory, away. (2) QUEEN PERFECT has been around the mark to date whilst (7) PERFECT POINT was a much-improved run at her second start. (5) CHOEGANG HAPPY and (12) SAENAE HILL are yet to place but rate next.

Selections(8) Kiss The Rain (4) World Eagle Cat (2) Queen Perfect (7) Perfect Point
Next Best5, 12
Fast Start6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(9) GHOST CHRYSOL was a winner over 1700M two starts back and then ran 3rd on his first try at this class over the same distance on February 7th when settling back and running on. He remains under a light weight, CC knows him, well, and he can win here. (7) DANGDAECHOWOL enters in super form having won or placed in each of his last six appearances. He is up 3kg on his class and distance score on February 28th when he was close to the pace throughout, and he can be a big danger again. (3) CHEONGSAN JILJU enters off a 3rd place at this class and distance on February 15th. An apprentice takes his weight down here and from a good draw he should be one of the early pace-setters and in this a long way. (1) HANGANG CAPTAIN and (6) HEUNGHAENG DOLPUNG others in the frame.

Selections(9) Ghost Chrysol (7) Dangdaechowol (3) Cheongsan Jilju (1) Hangang Captain
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

(7) GREAT POWER has finished fourth in each of his last two starts, over course, distance and grade, attempting to lead throughout on each occasion. Those two efforts look to be the best pieces of form on offer in this contest. (2) HAENGBOK TREE made up a bit of ground back on debut in November and following a midfield finish in a trial earlier this month can go close. The extra 200 metres in this contest compared to her first race could potentially suit also. (8) WORLD TRIPLE CAT has been out the back in each of her last two but did finish third the time prior back in November. (5) WORLD BOLD MAN placed two runs back and rates over (1) BEOLGYO VILLAIN who placed as recently as last start with (4) MY BEST next best.

Selections(7) Great Power (2) Haengbok Tree (8) World Triple Cat (5) World Bold Man
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

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

(more…)

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

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

Maidens with all but two racing for the first time. The experience should be good enough. (2) GYEONGBOK ATOS trialed well and was a beaten favourite when 3rd over 1200M on debut on January 16th when only beginning fairly before being ridden up to the pace. He should have come on for the run and will be favourite again.  (9) NICE MYEONGGA has raced twice for a 2nd and a 4th, the latter at this distance. She should have a fitness edge on these and is a chance. Of the first timers, (3) GOLD POCKET took two goes to qualify but looked very well in the second of them, running an on-pace 2nd in a decent time. He draws well; Seo Seung-un is on, and he can put in a bold showing. (6) GAON PERFECT and (8) GIROL SIDAE hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(2) Gyeongbok Atos (9) Nice Myeongga (3) Gold Pocket (6) Gaon Perfect
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 3

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

(12) POWERFUL THUNDER has been getting closer across four starts so far culminating in 3rd place at this distance o February 27th when handy throughout. He has the challenge of the widest gate here but should have enough about him to get to a prominent position again, and he looks ready to win. (10) YONGBI LEGEND was 2nd in a slow race two starts back over this distance. She has mixed her form across five starts but should be placing in this company. (6) MAGIC HAMMER too hasn’t shown much in the way of speed but has a 3rd and two 4th places among four outings to date, and that’s enough to have him in the numbers here. (3) CHAMPUI HYANGGI and first-time starter (1) DOCTOR PUNCH are others who could play a role in the finish.

Selections(12) Powerful Thunder (10) Yongbi Legend (6) Magic Hammer (3) Champui Hyanggi
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start4, 10, 11, 12

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

(9) FANTASTIC BOSS has a 3rd on his record and enters having been the beaten favourite on February 13th when 6th of eleven over 1400M. Coming up to the mile for the first time can suit, and he can win. He will have to overturn the form on (3) DOLGYEOK SPECIAL, who was 4th in that February 13th race, coming from a long way back. She has a 5th and two 4th places from three starts so far and while her times have been slow, she carries a featherweight, and having done her best work late, she should thrive at the mile. (5) NICE POWER beat a couple of today’s rivals on her way to 5th place on March 8th and makes a quick return here to strike while the iron is at least at room temperature. (4) HWARYEOHAN SUNGAN and (8) OASIS CHAMP could improve.

Selections(9) Fantastic Boss (3) Dolgyeok Special (5) Nice Power (4) Hwaeryeohan Sungan
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

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

(5) THE POINT enters off a maiden win that had been coming on February 13th when he scored from on pace at 1200M. Despite coming up in class he carries an additional kilo today, but that shouldn’t be a problem, and he can win again. (11) BORYEONG ULTRA MAN is the danger. He is similarly up in class following his maiden win, which in his case arrived at start four over this distance on January 18th when on pace all the way. He doesn’t get a weight break either and he draws wide, but Seo Seung-un stays on and he can measure up. (7) VICTORY STORY is yet to win in thirteen but has seven finishes between 2nd and 4th and can be there or thereabouts again. (10) DOCTOR ACE and (2) GREAT STAR others in the frame.

Selections(5) The Point (11) Boryeong Ultra Man (7) Victory Story (10) Doctor Ace
Next Best2, 12
Fast Start5, 7, 11,12

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

(more…)

Korea Racing Report: March 13-15

THE REIGNING GRAND PRIX CHAMPION CLEAN ONE WAS THE STAR OF THE SHOW AT SEOUL ON SUNDAY BUT THERE WERE NINE OTHER RACES RUN AND WON ON THE CARD.

K N LIGHT (Testa Matta), as is his racing pattern, came right from the back of the field but unlike recent runs passed all of his rivals under Jeong Woo-ju landing the day at odds of 41.7 and in doing so became the second horse of the weekend at Seoul to win as the rank outsider.

The other class 3 contest on the card was the last and WE GO HIGH (Musket Man) returned from three months out to register his fifth win from eight starts by a comfortable five-lengths under Jang Chu-youl.

MUSKET CLEAVER (Musket Man) was an impressive eight-length winner of race 5 (1600M Class 4) and looks to have scope for more improvement going on the way he very easily accounted for his rivals.

The same can be said about CONCORD BLUE (Concord Point) who landed race 4 (1300M Class 5) by five-lengths under CC Wong for trainer Lee Shin-woo.

WHILST DOWN AT BUSAN ON SUNDAY UNJU GUY (Freedom Child) was an incredibly impressive winner of the concluding 1800M class 2 by an ever-extending nine-lengths. 

Unju Guy, who was second to Oasis Blue in last year’s Derby, had run into the likes of Young Skywalker and Oasis Red in recent starts, and was also sent up to Seoul for a crack at the President’s Cup in October, but appreciated not running into horses of that ability with what was visually the most impressive win of the day across the country and the style of his win surely wouldn’t have dented his confidence levels going forward.

(more…)

Herald Business Sunday: Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 15)

The Stayer Series gets underway at Seoul on Sunday afternoon with an all-star line up of twelve facing the starter in the Herald Business (2000M KOR-G3). There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Clean One races for the first time since his Grand Prix romp (Pic: KRA)

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

(5) CHAOS was ordinary on debut last October but was much better when returning on January 31st leading for most of the way around and finishing in 3rd place ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. She should strip fitter for that run and with no other early speed in the race, is clear favourite here. (2) COWBOY QUEEN was a fair 5th on her debut on February 1st over this distance, settling midfield and finishing off well enough. She is under an apprentice claim again here and can improve. There are four debut makers. (11) ORATORIUM was 3rd in trial and looks the best placed to make an impact first up. (10) CLOVER ONE and (6) CHEONGGANG GYEOUL also hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(5) Chaos (2) Cowboy Queen (11) Oratorium (10) Clover One
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start5, 8

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

(4) FIVE STAR has been knocking on the door over his five starts to date, with a 3rd and a 4th from his latest two, both times coming from off the pace. He can get a bit far back but if Furkan can have him in touch in the straight, this race is there for the taking. (2) MR.CREDIT has mixed his form across four outings, but he did register a smart 3rd over 1200M in December. Things didn’t work out for him when he was midfield in a slow race over this trip on February 14th but he is worth another chance here. (9) KING SPICY has made progress each time, most recently a 4th place at 1300M and the slight step up in trip again can suit. (11) QUEENS FLYING and (10) PRIMERO are other place chances.

Selections(4) Five Star (2) Mr.Credit (9) King Spicy (11) Queens Flying
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start5, 6, 8, 11

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

Franco Da Silva might not have retained the ride on Clean One in the G3 at Seoul today, but he can still have a very good day at Busan, and he kicks off with a very good chance in the shape of (3) VICTORIA CHUKJE. After a 2nd place on debut, she has registered a 5th and a 4th in two subsequent starts, at 1200M and most recently this distance on February 15th. From a good draw she can be expected to be further forward earlier, and she is the one to bet. (9) VELOCI QUEEN was 2nd at start two, narrowly missing out in a tight finish over 1200M on January 23rd. The slight step up in trip can suit and she is a danger. (4) SUPER HIT enters off her best to date when 3rd at this distance on February 1st and can match or better that here. (10) DIA X and (2) NORTHERN QUEEN are the other chances.

Selections(3) Victoria Chukje (9) Veloci Queen (4) Super Hit (10) Dia X
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 5 ,12

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

Fillies and mares only (1) RAON THE BELMONT had a poor day at the office last time out February 8th when only making it to midfield and never traveling. We’ll draw a line through that and instead go on her class and distance win two starts back on December 28th and in this more limited company, give her another chance. (4) FINAL JILJU ran 2nd at big odds at class and distance on February 14th and while up 2kg in weight, can aim to repeat. (5) POETIC NUBI enters with recent form reading adequately and that’s enough to have her among the place chances. (7) HAKSAN DAESE and (3) RED DRAGON others who can pick up in what is a weak race and where all of what passes for early speed is drawn wide.

Selections(1) Raon The Belmont (4) Final Jilju (5) Poetic Nubi (7) Haksan Daese
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start8, 9, 10, 11

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

(8) SUCCESS DAY has been getting closer across his four starts so far, culminating in 2nd on hos first try at this distance on February 13th when handy throughout. He can be on pace here and can go one better. Solitary debut-maker (2) WONDERFUL FASHION went through two trials, settling back in one and showing at the front in the other and finishing 3rd in both. He draws well to get forward early and can put in a bold showing in this company. (9) CARAT KING enters off a best to date 2nd at this distance on March 1st. He makes a quick return and an apprentice claiming 3kg keeps him competitive. (11) DOKKI TIGER and (6) ROYAL CRYSTAL others in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Success Day (2) Wonderful Fashion (9) Carat King (11) Dokki Tiger
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 8

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

(10) CONCORD BLUE was a winner on debut over 1200M in January before running 3rd on his first try at this class over 1400M on February 8th. He draws wide here but should have enough about him early to get to the lead, and he is the one to beat. (9) ROAD TO STAR has a 3rd and a 4th in two starts at this level since getting his maiden win back in December. He can settle behind the early speed here and be a threat late on. (5) LOVERMAN comes up in class having scored his maiden win at this distance on February 14th. The time wasn’t quick, but he is down 2kg in weight and he can be competitive. (4) BLISS STAR and (6) THUNDER MARVEL are others in the hunt.

Selections(10) Concord Blue (9) Road To Star (5) Loverman (4) Bliss Star
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 10

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

(9) BUNKER BUSTER got his maiden win at start two at the end of January and then came desperately close to following up when 2nd on his first try at this class and distance on February 27th. He comes up 1.5kg in weight, but he will be on pace, and he is favoured to go one better today. (1) BREEDO ARENA came from off the pace to win over this distance two starts back and while she only finished midfield over 1300M on her first try at this level two weeks ago, she carries a light weight and can be in the finish here. (11) DREAM RACER has beaten a couple of today’s rivals in both his latest two outings, most recently when 4th at this class and distance on February 1st and should beat plenty again. (12) SUCCESS COW and (3) TIP TAP others with place chances.                                                                                      

Selections(9) Bunker Buster (1) Breedo Arena (11) Dream Racer (12) Success Cow
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(more…)

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

Friday 13th racing is at Busan with 8 races from 11L15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

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

(3) LIGHTNING FORCE ran 3rd on debut over this distance on February 13th, disputing the lead and finishing off fairly. He should have come on for that run and from a good draw he can be on pace and can win here. (2) OASIS GIJEOK raced three times last summer and also has a 3rd place on his record over this distance. He had a setback in late September and didn’t return to work until the start of February, but he looked well in a trial at the end of that month, and he can be a danger first up. (11) OVER RAINBOW has a pair of 5th places from his latest two and can get closer with an apprentice claiming 4kg. (1) GEUMBIT TODAY and (9) DUBAI CANDY are others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Lightning Force (2) Oasis Gijeok (11) Over Rainbow (1) Geumbit Today
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

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

(11) YURIM SPECIAL comes in off her best result so far over this distance on February 15th when he led for most of the way around and only went down narrowly. She draws a touch wider than ideal but with a but of luck at the start, she can get forward again, and she can go one better. (2) EUNSEONG JILJU was 3rd in that race, coming from off the pace. It was a first try at the mile and while she is up 2kg in weight, Seo Seung-un climbing on for the first time means she will probably be sent off as favourite to find the length and a half she needs to overturn the form on Yurim Special. That pair will fill out most quinellas because the form falls off precipitously. (3) PERFECT HAN has a 2nd and a 3rd on his resume at this distance and that’s enough for him to be in the numbers. (5) YEONGGWANGUI GREEN and (10) YEOSU LOOK AT STAR the minor money chances.

Selections(11) Yurim Special (2) Eunseong Jilju (3) Perfect Han (5) Yeonggwangui Green
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 9, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (3) GRAND TREE got her maiden win at start two and enters off a close 2nd place on February 13th when overcoming the widest gate. She draws much better today and can win. (2) DOLPHIN KICK is yet to win in eleven outings but has ten top five finishes with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at this class and distance, most recently behind Grand Tree on February 13th.  She should be on pace here and today could be her day. (4) HIGH BEAUTY was a maiden winner at 1200M two starts back before showing on pace on her first try at this class on February 1st, ultimately finishing in 4th. She’ll be on pace again and can be in this a long way. Up in class last start winner (11) BULBIT YEONGMA and (9) CHAMP GIRL can measure up.

Selections(3) Grand Tree (2) Dolphin Kick (4) High Beauty (11) Bulbit Yeongma
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

(9) YEOUN was a winner on debut over 1200M in January when she led all the way, before running 4th on her first try at this class on February 13th having shown on pace throughout. She holds an entry for the Luna Stakes in three weeks, and at least placing here should be a prerequisite to getting in. Take her each-way. (1) HANEUL GOLD enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at this class over 1400M and 1200M. His maiden win was over this trip, and he will probably be the betting favourite. (4) RACE MARINE has run 2nd in both his latest two over 1400M and a mile in contrasting styles. An apprentice claims 4kg here and that should put him in the frame. (2) FATE and (7) HOLY NIKE are other place chances.

Selections(9) Yeoun (1) Haneul Gold (4) Race Marine (2) Fate
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

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

(more…)

Korea Racing Report: March 6th – March 8th

IT WAS A LONG WAIT FOR THE FEATURE AT SEOUL RACECOURSE ON SUNDAY A class 1 affair over the 1200M for those who didn’t make the privilege of going to the G3 at Busan to get beaten by Vincero Cavallo, was the last on the card, but it didn’t disappoint as MAGIC POTION (Competitive Edge), the winner of last November’s KRA Sprint at Seoul, beat favourite Best Race by a length and a half in a fast time. 

The US-bred five-year-old, who was ridden by Lee Yong-ho, moved on to eight wins from fourteen starts and could be under consideration for a start in the next leg of the Sprint Series on April 12th. 

STUNNING MONEY (Gyeongbudaero) completed a riding treble on the program for Panamanian jockey Luiz Quiroz when winning the preceding ninth race (1800M Class 3) by two lengths.

It was a third victory over the Seoul 1800M for Stunning Money who accounted for Dragon Gate and Ultra Dragon whilst the three favourites in Tanseongui Banseok, BS Storm and Pasa Spurt were the next trio home.

The other victories on the program for Quiroz were ONEMO TIME (Peace Rules) who was the most impressive winner of the three maiden contests at the start of the card when justifying 2.3 favoritism by nine-lengths from the front, and in race 7 with a pick-up ride on STAY BIG (Stay Thirsty) who was the rank outsider at 60/1.

SHINING ROAD (Midshipman) was considered the danger to the 1.4 popular pick Pas de Cheval in race 8 (1700M Class 4) and he duly got first run on the favourite and held him off by a half-length. Pas de Cheval, who had won his previous two starts very softly, didn’t respond when first asked for the effort but eventually picked up in the straight; however, the line came up too quickly for his backers.

RAON FLORENCE (Musket Man) continued his consistent run of form when impressively winning by six lengths at even money under apprentice Woo In-cheol in race 6 (1200M Class 4).

GWANAKSAN SKY (Concord Point) followed up his debut victory with a four-length score in race 4 (1400M Class 5) and looks like potentially a nice type going forward.

GRACE DAY (Race Day) followed up her front-running nine-length maiden victory with another front-running win, this time only by a half-length. It is likely it would have been by a bit further however if she wasn’t so green in the home straight as she hung out with 200 metres to travel before then ducking back in towards the running rail in the final 50 metres. Her victory completed a riding double for Jeong Jeong-hee who rode the opening winner FLASH JUDE (Flashback).

VINCERO CAVALLO WAS THE STAR DOWN AT BUSAN but there was plenty on the undercard too.

UNJU CHALLENGE (Revolutionary) came home two and a half lengths clear in the following 1800M Class 4. He dipped coming out of the gates but balanced up, found the lead and proved too good for Lime Tree whilst the 2.4 favourite Amazing One was a further five lengths away only managing third and never looking like getting near his two co-favourites. Son Gyeong-min was the winning rider and that apprentice completed a double after success in race 3 on board NICE GIRL (Afleet Express).

(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (March 6)

The first Group race of the year takes place on Sunday at Busan with the G3 Busan Ilbo Sprint, and it’s on the south coast where the week’s action gets underway on Friday with an 9-race card from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

Clutch Winner won Busan’s Listed Sports Seoul Trophy last Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Maiden fillies with seven of the ten racing for the first time. (2) SUCCESS QUEEN was 7th on debut last October, but a much-improved 2nd at start number two over this distance on January 16th when handy throughout. From a great draw, she will be on pace and won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this. (5) NINETEEN NINE WON raced handy on debut to finish in 3rd place in a similar filly maiden to this one. She should have come on for the run and can be in the finish again. (1) DEMETER made all to win her trial in a fair time and she looks to be the pick of the debut-makers. (10) DREAM BIG and (7) HUNTRIX others who hinted at ability in their heats.

Selections(2) Success Queen (5) Nineteen Nine Won (10) Dream Big
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

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

(11) JEONGMUN SKIP has been getting closer, most recently running 2nd in a slow race over this distance on February 8th. The wide draw won’t be a problem, Franco knows her well, and she is the one to beat. (7) NONSTOP HUG hasn’t shown much in the way of speed so far, but she was a fair 3rd at start number two over 1300M on Boxing Day. She hasn’t raced since but the step up in trip can suit and she can be a danger. (5) QUEEN WIND has mixed her form over three starts so far but does have a 2nd place to her name and that’s enough to have her in the numbers here. Solitary debut-maker (3) DOCTOR HUNTER, along with (1) THEMIS are others in the frame.

Selections(11) Jeongmun Skip (7) Nonstop Hug (5) Queen Wind (3) Doctor Hunter
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 10

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

(1) ENCORE has been on pace in his latest outings before weakening slightly on each occasion. He cuts back in trip today, he draws nicely to be on pace again, and he can return to winning ways. (11) YOUNGYOUNG BRAVO has won his latest two, most recently at this class on January 30th over 1400M. He is up 3kg in weight but should be firmly in the finish again. (3) TRIPLE J beat Encore when the pair came home 1st and 3rd over a mile at this class in December and with Seo Seung-un climbing on today, he is sure to have plenty of backers. (4) OASIS STAR is up in class following a maiden win and can measure up, while (12) GWANGSOKMA is another in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Encore (11) Youngyoung Bravo (3) Triple J (4) Oasis Star
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 11

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

(1) SUN LIGHT is yet to win in twelve attempts but has nine top five finishes and enters having beaten three of these on her way to 2nd place at this class and distance on January 25th. She does tend to get a bit far back in her races but today can be her day. (4) PORT MORE comes in having registered his maiden win at start six over a mile on February 1st when he led from gate to wire. He is up in class and in trip today, but he’s down 3kg in weight and can measure up. (5) UNJU MAGIC was 2nd to Sun Light’s 5th when they raced one another at this class and distance in January. He struggled on his re-appearance at a mile in February but is worth another chance today. (2) BARBELL TROFEO and (9) TAEPYEONG FLEX others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Sun Light (4) Port More (5) Unju Magic (2) Barbell Trofeo
Next Best9, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 12

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Fillies and mares only here. (6) GOLDEN EMPIRE has won two of her latest three, most recently at 1300M on January 23rd when making all. She is up in class here and while she doesn’t get a weight break as she only had 52kg that day, she looks to have potential for more progress. (4) CRYSTAL MULGYEOL is similarly up in class having led all the way to score at 1300M on January 30th. She has placed at this distance too and can lead again and be in this a long way. (7) FLYING MENACE came home 2nd at this class and distance at a big price on February 8th and warrants more respect today. (10) QUEEN OF DRAGON and (5) FLASH RUN are the other main chances in a competitive race.

(more…)

Classic Trials Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (March 1)

March kicks off with Listed races for three-year-olds at both Seoul and Busan. In total there are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

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

Maiden fillies. (5) FLYING SMART was last throughout in her first trial on December 18 when beaten 39 ¾ lengths but atoned for that with a victory on January 15 coming from midfield to score by three lengths. On that most recent trial, this daughter of Old Fashioned looks to have a good chance of winning on debut for Kazuya Asano and Tony Castanheira. (11) ECLIPSE ELLY was ahead of five of her rivals when second beaten 11 lengths on debut back on January 24 and can go close again. (2) WALLSTREET was a long last back on debut however improved at attempt two to run third and can be prominent again for Johan Victoire and Moon Byeong-ki. (6) LAVITA was also a long last on debut, beaten 21 lengths, before improving to finish third second time around but in her case, she only improved one length on her debut as she was beaten 20 lengths. (1) BULGEUN YEOJEONSA and (8) CHEONGGANG BOM rate next.

Selections(5) Flying Smart (11) Eclipse Elly (2) Wallstreet (6) Lavita
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

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

(10) RAON THE TONY has been the most consistent of these to date with a trial third followed by two third places at his two race starts racing on pace throughout in each of the three performances. In what is not a strong maiden he can go a few places better. (6) WINNER’S BLUE was third on debut when attempting to lead throughout however couldn’t lead last time and subsequently dropped out after failing to handle the kickback so if she can lead she can go close. (3) DANAEUN RUBY was second in her trial but in three races to date she has bombed out. She was ridden forward in the first two of those however was ridden from the rear at attempt three, but those changes of tactics achieved nothing. This isn’t a strong race so she hasn’t got that many more chances. (11) NIGHT CAPTAIN has been around the mark and rates over (8) AESUNI and (9) PARKA SHINE.

Selections(10) Raon The Tony, (6) Winner’s Blue (3) Danaeun Ruby (11) Night Captain
Next Best 8, 9
Fast Start 6, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 4 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

(4) TRIBAL WAR won a trial and then ran 2nd on debut over this distance on January 25th, leading for most of the way and beating four of today’s rivals. He won’t need to improve much, if at all, to win this and he will start a short-price favourite. Having run 5th on debut, (7) GYEONGBOK STREGA was an improved 3rd in that January 25th race, coming from off the pace and finishing two-and-a-half lengths behind Tribal War. Third-up he can be nice and fit and continue to make progress. (6) ONE LAST MARGARITA was a trial winner and then ran 4th on debut in the January 25th race. He should have come on for the run and can get closer. Debut-maker (10) SAESIDAE WON won a trial and can be considered. (3) BARAM DAERO was slow away on debut but ran on well for 5th and is a place chance.

Selections(4) Tribal War (7) Gyeongbok Strega (6) One Last Margarita (10) Saesidae Won
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

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

(11) POMADE has made steady progress across five starts so far, with her latest her best when 2nd over this distance on January 24th. She led for most of the way that day, but she has a smart finish on her too so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can go one better. The danger is on her inside. (10) PARAIBA has finished between 3rd and 5th in all her four starts so far, settling midfield and running on each time. The slight step up in trip can suit and Maia gets back on. (1) RISING WIND was a much-improved 3rd at start three on January 25th and is another who can benefit from the increased distance today. (4) EUNHA KALAS and (8) WONDERFUL REASON others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Pomade (10) Paraiba (1) Rising Wind (4) Eunha Kalas
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

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

(11) VELOCI QUEEN was 4th on debut and then 2nd at start number two at this distance on January 23rd when she settled midfield and finished well, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. Third-up she can be peaking, and she can win. (3) SUNRISE will probably be the betting favourite. She has a 2nd and a4th in two starts at 1200M and 1300M and from a great draw, she can be on pace and can potentially go all the way. The form falls off significantly after those two. (2) DEEP SPRINT was 3rd on debut behind Veloci Queen on January 23rd and with some natural improvement can be a place chance. (9) SHINING CLUTCH and (1) DOCTOR STING may improve.

(more…)

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

Racing is back and it’s a four-day weekend with Seoul and Jeju holding holiday cards on Monday. The action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9-races from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

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

(7) CAMPIO is a Kim Hye-sun prepared debutante by Mischieviously that led throughout to win his trial impressively by one- and three-quarter lengths on December 20 in a time of 1:01.9 and that looks more than good enough to make a winning debut. (10) DELTA FORCE was beaten miles in his first trial on July 5 but after five months off trialled again on December 13 and won comfortably by five lengths. He was a beaten 1.8 favourite on his race debut on January 23 but wasn’t disgraced finishing third beaten a length when racing on the pace throughout. (8) BACK TO THE DREAM is a Gemologist debutante for Lim Keum-man that has had the one trial for a half-length second on January 29. (5) NICE MYEONGGA has been around the mark to date in his trials and solitary race and is next best over (1) OASIS KINGDOM and (4) SEOGWI GREAT.

Selections(7) Campio, (10) Delta Force, (8) Back To The Dream, (5) Nice Myeongga
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10, 11

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

(10) ROAD TO NUMBER ONE is a Lee Jung-pyo trained filly by the American Royal Ascot winner Uncaptured that has had the one trial for an impressive front-running success on January 22 by three lengths so she must be given the utmost of respect on debut. (4) FAST WIND has proven a bit of a handful to date racing greenly and resenting kickback. He was never in the hunt after a poor beginning last start, but he was in the market against a couple of nice types and did manage second when making his debut prior. (5) QUEEN’S TODAY has had the three starts, and they have all occurred over this trip, but she perhaps would appreciate a tad further. She can however be given a place chance going on the way she has got to the finish at her last two. (9) POWERFUL THUNDER has been around the mark to date whilst (3) BREEDO SHOOTER is an interesting runner and rates over (2) SWEET MAN.

Selections(10) Road To Number One, (4) Fast Wind, (5) Queen’s Today, (9) Powerful Thunder
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start3, 10, 11, 12

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

(6) WIN NOW is the only debutante in the field but this Moon Hyeon-cheol prepared son of Final Boss can go close. He ran past a few late when fourth beaten 18 ¾ lengths in his first trial on January 8 prior to a good victory on January 29 when coming from near last to prevail by a half-length. (11) DUBAI SEONMUL came from well back after a slow start to be a three length second on debut back in December prior to a third beaten 12 lengths on January 30 behind Bunker Buster, who he did run past back on debut. After drawing against the inside running rail in both runs to date, he draws the widest bar one for this assignment but might find this to be a tad easier than his first two runs. (9) LIKE DRAGON had been knocking on the door prior to last start when failing as a 1.8 favourite in the form line race for this. He failed to handle the kickback on that occasion but draws wider here. (1) TOP OF THE RANK beat four of his rivals last start and they included (8) GREAT POWER who rates next over (10) YONGBI JJANG.

Selections(6) Win Now, (11) Dubai Seonmul, (9) Like Dragon, (1) Top Of The Rank
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start1, 8, 9

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

(12) QUEEN MAKER didn’t do much at the trials so was sent off at 72.4 for her debut but was a good second beaten by less than a length. She was a three length second to Bunker Buster, who races later in the card, last start and despite drawing wide is a chance of going one better. (9) FAPPI BABE is yet to do much wrong with two third places prior to a two-length victory from the front on January 16. (4) SWORN QUEEN overcame a bad start to score last start. (3) MOMENTUM won her maiden on Boxing Day by a whopping 16 lengths prior to a fifth last start. (2) BREEDO ARENA broke through last time and is improving and THIS WAY (8) has won at this level in the past. (1) BORYEONG ONE ROAD and (6) LAMPYOJEONGGEENIE must be considered too in a tough race.

Selections(12) Queen Maker, (9) Fappi Babe, (4) Sworn Queen, (3) Momentum
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9, 12

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

(9) BUNKER BUSTER failed on debut as a 1.2 favourite but duly made up for that at attempt two when winning his maiden over 1300 metres on January 30 by a soft three lengths. He looks to have progression and can win again. (2) OASIS YOUNG is another who won his maiden last start over 1300 metres with his occurring on January 25 by four lengths. He hasn’t done much wrong in three runs and is another who can go well up one level in grade. (6) FAST MAN was just behind the placegetters in some feature juvenile races last season before winning his maiden by 13 lengths in December before failing badly as a 1.3 favourite in his first run at this level and over this trip. He was a beaten favourite again last time, however, ran much better. He returns to the 1400 metres, and it will be interesting to see how he performs with Franco da Silva riding for the first time. (5) SEONGSIL DREAM was an impressive winner of his maiden last time and rates over (11) DAEGIL HERO and (10) SHINING ONE (10).

(more…)

Segye Ilbo Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (February 15)

The final day’s racing before the Lunar New Year’s holiday sees the first Stakes race of 2026 with the Listed Segye Ilbo Trophy at Seoul. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

Horse Of The Year Speed Young goes in the Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)

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

Competitive maiden opener with four of the ten racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on a newcomer in the shape of (2) THE CLASSIC. He’s a “full” brother to KRA Cup Mile winner Betelgeuse and went through two trials, just doing enough in the first of them before winning the second with an on pace showing. He should be nice and fit and can win on debut. (1) GANGHAN GAMMA ran a fair 5th on debut on January 17th, settling back and running on. She should have come on for that, and the additional half furlong can suit. (6) NOBLE MATCH has raced twice, improving to 3rd at start number two. She’ll be on pace and can be in the finish. (5) PASA ACE and debut maker (9) SKYLOR TAEHA are others in the mix.

Selections(2) The Classic (1) Ganghan Gamma (6) Noble Match (5) Pasa Ace
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 10

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

(8) YEONGWONHAN STAR has shown steady improvement across her four starts to date, culminating in 2nd place at 1200M on December 13th. She comes in fresh following nine weeks off, in this company she can be on the speed, and she rates as a big chance. (7) BLAZING ENGINE was slow away and never a factor at start two in January but if we go on his 2nd place on debut over 1200M at the end of December, he warrants another chance here. (11) X-TEN was a close 4th over this distance on January 25th and while she has the challenge of the widest gate here, she has finished off her races well and can be threatening late. (5) CHEONJI JACKAL and (9) BEST URBANE other place chances.

Selections(8) Yeongwonhan Star (7) Blazing Engine (11) X-Ten (5) Cheonji Jackal
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here and while there is only one debut-maker, she goes on top. (11) RUSH WILD led every step of the way to comfortably win her trial in a decent time, working through the line well. If she brings that form to the races, the Hansen filly has every chance first up. (7) VICTORIA CHUKJE has a 2nd and a 5th from two starts so far, beating several of today’s rivals in the process, and she looks like the best of the experienced ones. (2) TAEYANGUIYEOLJEONG was 4th behind Victoria Chukje on the latter’s debut but has a runner-up finish to her name too at this distance and that’s enough to have her in the mix as well. (4) NORTHERN QUEEN and (3) DUBAI CANDY others in the frame.

Selections(11) Rush Wild (7) Victoria Chukje (2) Taeyanguiyeoljeong (4) Northern Queen
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 11, 12

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

Since returning from five months out, (3) PNS GONGJA has finished 3rd twice, first at 1200M in December and then at 1400M on January 10th when he led for most of the way and beat a couple of today’s rivals. Third-up he can be peaking, Maia climbs on for the first time, and he can win (10) MADE ran twice last summer for a 4th and a 3rd and while he hasn’t raced since, he looked well in a January trial and can put in a good effort first-up. (6) MIGHTY CRIS was a much-improved 3rd over 1300M on January 18th, doing his best work late, and the slight increase in distance can suit. (9) PRIMERO and (4) HWANGGEUM MASK are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(3) PNS Gongja (10) Made (6) Mighty Cris (9) Primero
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

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

(10) FLASH TO ME comes in having beaten three of today’s rivals on his way to 3rd place over 1400M on January 16rg, settling fairly before being ridden up to be handy. The mile can suit, Franco rides for the first time, and he will be a short price to win. (8) MAGIC MIRROR was the second longest shot on the board last time out but defied that to run 3rd on his first try at 1400M. The further extended trip today can be in his favour and he can be in the finish again. (6) MUJEOK BIHAENG did beat Flash To Me when the pair ran 4th and 5th back in early December and she can offer some each-way interest. (3) TAEPYEONG FLEX and (9) BREEDO CAPTAIN are the other main chances.

Selections(10) Flash To Me (8) Magic Mirror (6) Mujeok Bihaeng (3) Taepyeong Flex
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

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

(11) VALID YOUNG was a winner on debut over 1200M before running 4th on his first try at this class and distance on January 10th, settling midfield from a wide draw and running on. He can run on again here and he can win. The danger is on his immediate inside. (10) GENERAL WIND overcame the widest gate to win on debut over 1000M and then ran a very close 2nd at 1200M on December 21st at this level. He comes up to 1400M for the first time but if he can get a touch of luck at the start to help him lead, he has every chance. (2) TAEGISAN KING was 2nd at this class and distance on January 17th, coming from off the pace, and he can be in the mix again. (7) ROAD TO STAR and veteran (1) SSANG OK RU other minor money chances.

Selections(11) Valid Young (10) General Wind (2) Taegisan King (7) Road To Star
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(more…)