Busan

Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 17)

Juveniles take centre-stage at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday with Listed races open to the very best young imports at both tracks. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener and (4) ECLIPSE BLACK will be a hot favourite. An extremely tough assignment on debut in the Munhwa Ilbo Trophy went about as well as could be expected by the was much better when tried in regular company at 1400M on October 6th when he overcame gate ten to run 3rd. The Shackleford colt gets a much better draw this time and he should win. (11) WONDERFUL REASON was a fair 4th on debut over 1200M on October 5th when handy all the way around. He doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim this time but should have come on for the run and can be closer. (3) HAKSAN CAIRO has a 3rd and a 5th from two starts so far, coming from off the pace both times. Nicely drawn, he can sit behind the speed and run into the money. (9) DURAY SHOW and (2) HIGH CROWN are others who can improve from their debuts.

Selections(4) Eclipse Black (11) Wonderful Reason (3) Haksan Cairo (9) Duray Show
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start4, 8, 10, 11

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (8) HANGANG FASHIONED has a couple of 4th places and a fifth among four starts so far up to 1200M. The slight step up in trip can suit, and she has as good a chance as any here. She will need to overturn form though on (6) ECO WORLD, who beat her when the pair ran 4th and 5th on October 12th over 1200M. Harry stays up and from a better gate, she is a big danger. (4) HYEWONYONGMA enters off a much-improved runner-up finish when stepped up to this distance for the first time on October 19th when she led for much of the way around. A similar effort will see her very close here. (10) NESSUN DORMA and (3) GANDAGO are the other placing chances.

Selections(8) Hangang Fashioned (6) Eco World (4) Hyewonyongma (10) Nessun Dorma
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

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

Small field of juvenile maidens in the opener and (2) YOUNG SKYWALKER is the one to beat. After winning a trial, he was a smart 2nd on debut on October 13th racing on pace and going close in a quick time. He draws well to lead and will be hard to hold out. (5) MAENGNYONG was similarly 2nd on his debut which came over 1300M on October 18th when he led for most of the way, only to get passed in the final furlong. He too will be on pace and can be dangerous. Continuing with the runner-up theme, (1) FLASH RUN came from off the pace to finish 2nd on debut in a filly only maiden over 1000M on October 11th. The step up in trip can suit and she can be a danger too. Debut-maker (6) FLYING RACE ran 2nd in his trial, well beaten by an experienced horse, but hinting at ability and he can go well first-up. (7) BEOLMA KING was 3rd on debut and can build on that here.

Selections(2) Young Skywalker (5) Maengnyong (1) Flash Run (6) Flying Race
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start2, 5

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

Fillies and mares only here. We’ll give (5) RISING MO a pass on her latest which came in the Listed NACF Chairman’s Trophy for juveniles when he was slow away and always a long way back. Instead, we’ll go on her first two outings when he led from gate to wire on debut over 1000M and then was 3rd at 1300M at start number two, both in quick times. If she brings that form, she can win. (10) BRIGHT KAI comes in off a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two at 1300M and 1400M suggesting she is getting to grips with this level. The cut back in trip is a minor surprise but, in this company, she can be dangerous, settling behind the speed and running on. (3) GULJAK SUN enters off a 2nd place at class and distance in a very similar race on October 20th. She was well beaten by a good winner, but a similar effort will put her in the mix again. (6) MISS FINAL and (2) HWIPARAM are the other placing chances.

Selections(5) Rising Mo (10) Bright Kai (3) Guljak Sun (6) Miss Final
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

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

It’s hard to go past (1) MIRAGE here. After a solid trial, she ran 3rd on debut over 1200M in an all-filly maiden on October 18th, racing on pace throughout. She should have come on for that run and she won’t need to improve much – if at all – to win this. (10) FLASH DAY races for the first time since June when he ran a solid 4th over this distance. He didn’t offer too many clues in a fair trial at the end of October but on the best he has shown, he can be a danger. (6) DIA X has the fastest time among these for the distance by some margin, recorded when 7th on debut (admittedly on a week in August when the track was running the fastest it has ever been). He has trialed well since his latest race in early September and that’s enough to put him in the mix here. (3) RACE MAN and (9) PINE BLUE others who could improve in this moderate company.

Selections(1) Mirage (10) Flash Day (6) Dia X (3) Race Man
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

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

(2) MAGIC IMPACT has really taken to the 1700M, getting her maiden win on her first try at it at class 6 level in September before following up with a close 2nd on her class 5 debut on October 12th when she led for most of the way and had a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She carries an additional 2.5kg this time but that shouldn’t be a problem, and she will be favourite to go one better. (9) DANGDAECHOWOL is yet to win in four attempts but comes up in class following back-to-back runner up finishes over 1300M. He tackles 1700M for the first time and given his running style so far, it may well suit. (10) COMPLETE PARTY was a somewhat unexpected winner at this class over 1400M on October 13th when leading all the way. She comes up 3.5kg in the weights and is up to 1700M for the first time, but she can be competitive. (4) PURPLE SHINHWA and (7) NATURAL SOUND are the other place chances.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 15)

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

Seo Seung-un returns at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with four of the eight racing for the first time. After winning a trial, (8) D’LOVELY KING ran 2nd on debut over this distance on October 4th having sat handy and run on. He should have come on for the run and has every chance of going one better here. That can apply too to (7) DAEGIL HERO, who finished off very smartly for 3rd place on debut on October 20th. The time was similar to that of D’Lovely King and he can be a big danger late. Among the first timers, (5) DONGNAM DOLPUNG ran a decent time when racing on pace and the jockey booking is a positive. (1) FLEX ENGINE started slowly but finished off very well and 1200M first up may suit. Returning to the experience, (4) FLARE UP folded on debut after a promising start to the race and may improve.

Selections(8) D’Lovely King (7) Daegil Hero (5) Dongnam Dolpung (1) Flex Engine
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8

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

Maiden fillies. (7) GEUMA DOMINANT has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far and while she was well beaten by an excellent winner in the latter of them on October 18th, she posted a good time. The returning Seo Seung-un climbs on and from a probably handy position, it can be third time lucky, and she will be a hot favourite. (9) FLY TO THE MOON was an improved 3rd at start number two on October 11th when racing on pace. Both of her outings so far have been over 1000M and the step up in trip may be in her favour. (8) CHEONGWAN has a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, the latter her first try at this distance three weeks ago. She will join the other two favourites in challenging for the early lead and can be in this a long way again. It’s hard to go past those three to fill out the trio but it’s not impossible that (10) HWARYEOHANJOMYEONG can improve or that (3) ROYAL WINNER, 3rd in a trial, can put in a good effort on debut.

Selections(7) Geuma Dominant (9) Fly To The Moon (8) Cheongwan (10) Hwaryeohanjomyeong
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 9

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

Standard maiden. After running 4th on debut, (4) TRIPLE SINHWA stepped up to this distance at start number two on October 18th and having been sent off as favourite, led for much of the way around, ultimately finishing 2nd but beating a couple of today’s rivals. He draws the same gate again and this time shouldn’t be caught. (10) CHOGYEOKCHA has identical form with a 4th and a 2nd from two starts, both at 1200M. He has run on well, posting excellent final furlong times, and the step up in trip can suit. He shapes as the main danger. (2) PINOT POWER ran 4th behind Triple Sinhwa in that October 18th race and from another good draw, can continue his consistent run of form. (7) DORAON SAMSON and (11) B.K. MARON among plenty of others in the placing frame.

Selections(4) Triple Sinhwa (10) Chogyeokcha (2) Pinot Power (7) Doraon Samson
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start4, 8, 9, 10

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

(4) SEKWANG LIGHT broke through at start number two over 1300M on October 18th, settling midfield and running on strongly. He comes up in class and slightly in distance, but neither should be a problem, and he can win again. Also up in class is (6) DIXIE WINNER. She is yet to win but gets a rating as result of back-to-back runner-up finishes in her latest two, most recently at this distance on October 4th. Her style has been to come from off the pace so the additional half furlong may suit and under a light weight, she can measure up in this company. (3) ROSE DRAGON was a winner two starts back at this distance but was found lame (both forelegs) after a disappointing first try at this class on October 13th. She came back into work on November 2nd and fully fit, she can be much better this time around. The vastly experienced pair of (1) ZET CASH and (2) HWARANG ACE are others capable of picking up a prize in this kind of event.

Selections(4) Sekwang Light (6) Dixie Winner (3) Rose Dragon (1) Zet Cash
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

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Kookje Shinmun Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (November 10)

The sprinters get their final shot at Group race glory for 2024 on Sunday with the Kookje Shinmun Cup (1400M KOR-G3) at Busan. There are 8 races at Busan from 11:00 to 17:30 while there are 9 races in Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Eoma Eoma will bid to defend his Kookje Shinmun Cup at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with seven of the twelve racing for the first time and it is a debut-maker who will be favourite. (4) FREE TIME qualified at the second attempt and he did it in style, running handy in his trial before crossing the line in front in a quick time. If he brings that form to the races then, from a good draw, he will be hard to hold out. (10) SAINT WINNER also took a couple of goes to qualify and was much improved in the second of them, when 3rd in a fair time. This is a nice race to debut in and the 1200M first up can suit. Among the experienced ones, neither (5) EAST GANGJEOK nor (1) BURUI SEGYE set the world alight on their respective debuts, but both showed enough to suggest they can improve second up. (6) CHEONJI LADY didn’t do much on debut but previously hinted at ability in a trial and in this company can do better.

Selections(4) Free Time (10) Saint Winner (5) East Gangjeok (1) Burui Segye
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 9

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

Fillies only in this juvenile maiden with two of the eight racing for the first time. We’ll take a chance on (8) ASSEMBLE, who was slow away on debut before running on pleasingly enough for 6th of eleven over 1200M. She’ll have to be taken on trust that she doesn’t get as far back this time, but the extra half furlong can see her home. (1) FAST MELODY could inpy manage 8th on debut over 1000M on August 2nd, but the time was good and from the inside gate she can be on pace and has every chance. (3) STAR FORCE was the best of the two debut-makers in trials and from a nice draw can race handy and make an impression. (6) ILLUSION has raced twice, both over 1000M and posting the same time in both when finishing midfield. She has finished off well and can appreciate the step up in trip. (7) B.K. MAGIC the best of the rest.

Selections(8) Assemble (1) Fast Melody (3) Star Force (6) Illusion
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

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

Juvenile maidens with all but three racing for the first time and with the experience offering little appeal, we must head to the trial videos. (7) GOOD CHOEGANG went through three heats, qualifying in the first but then doing two more in which he got progressively better, most recently 2nd place in 62.2 seconds when on pace on October 4th. If he gets on pace here, he may go all the way. (1) PALATINO similarly went through two heats, winning the first in a slow time but was then much quicker in a second on October 4th when overcoming the widest gate and running on well for 3rd. Drawn well, he can put in a bold showing. (11) STORM CROWN won his trial, settling handy and running on well in a quick time. He faces the challenge of a wide gate here can go well. (8) GWANAKSAN BLACK and (3) ART CATCHER trialed up together and both showed potential.

Selections(7) Good Choegang (1) Palatino (11) Storm Crown (8) Gwanaksan Black
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 12

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

(10) TAMNA SUPER enters off his best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on October 11th, beating a couple of these in the process. He has the challenge of a wide draw here, but with a little luck at the start, he can find a forward position and he can go one better. (6) SHACKLE LAUD has made good progress across three starts so far, culminating in 3rd place behind Tamna Super in that October 11th race, coming from well off the pace. He shapes as the main danger to overturn that for. (5) BABEL COME ON was 5th on debut over 1000M on October 11th, running on after a slow start. She should have come on for the run, and the additional furlong can suit. (9) MORNING DEW and (4) SPEED BOY, the latter trailing well five months on from an inauspicious debut, are others to consider.  

Selections(10) Tamna Super (6) Shackle Laud (5) Babel Come On (9) Morning Dew
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 10

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

(9) DRAGON K has two 4th places from three starts so far, including his latest over 1200M on October 19th when close to the pace throughout. His times haven’t been world beating but he should have enough about him to get on or close to the speed here and the slight step up in trip can suit. (4) HANURI has made progress across three outings so far, culminating in a 3rd place on October 27th at 1400M, when ridden at the front for the first time. Expect similar tactics today and he has every chance of going even closer. (3) B.K. BELLE came from well off the pace to run 4th at this distance on October 5th. She doesn’t benefit from an apprentice claim this time, but that’s balanced by Kim Yong-geun being up, and she should be close. (2) MERIT SUNSHINE and (1) BULGUKSIDAE others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(9) Dragon K (4) Hanuri (3) B.K. Belle (2) Merit Sunshine
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 8)

Busan will host Stakes race action this weekend with the Kookje Shinmum Trophy on Sunday. A full field of sixteen will be lining up for that, but first there is an 8-race card on the south coast on Friday from 11:50 to 18:00. Trainer Baik Kwang-yeol, currently on 999 career winners, has several chances to get winner number 1000. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens with five of the ten racing for the first time. (6) FANTASTIC BLUE raced on pace in the second of his trials, crossing the line 1st in a decent time. Franco is engaged and if he can bring that form to the races, he has every chance. (3) NAMYANG RUBY is the best of the experienced ones, having run 3rd on debut in an all-filly maiden over this distance on September 29th when settling back and running on. She should have come on for that run and can improve here and will probably be the betting favourite. (9) FAIRY was no better than fair when 5th of nine in a pedestrian time on debut in October. She too can be expected to show some natural improvement. (5) GLOBAL HIGH and (7) SINCHEON FREEDOM are other newcomers who hinted at ability in their respective trials.

Selections(6) Fantastic Blue (3) Namyang Ruby (9) Fairy (5) Global High
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

A full field of maiden fillies. (5) SHASHA ran 3rd on debut before following up with a 2nd place over 1200M on October 4th when she led for most of the way around. She will be on pace again here and she can make it third time lucky. (7) LIME TREE also has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record and has finished no worse than fifth in four outings so far. She can settle behind the speed here and she has shown she has a good turn of foot in the final furlong. (4) RAON FLATTER was an improved 4th when ridden on pace for the first time on October 11th and with similar tactics today, can be in this a long way. (1) BLACK WAVE and (6) SIMON STAR among plenty of other placing chances.

Selections(5) Shasha (7) Lime Tree (4) Raon Flatter (1) Black Wave
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

Small field for this maiden. (8) GEUMA REJOICE finally showed some ability when sent up to this trip for the first time on October 25th and running 2nd. She was well beaten behind a good winner, but she won’t need to improve much at all to win here. (4) BANGTANUI JEONSA has also shown some aptitude for this distance with a 3rd and a 2nd since being stepped up to it, most recently beating three of these on October 13th. (6) RAON THE LEGEND has been a little ordinary in her latest two, but she has a 3rd place to her name and the step up to the mile may suit. (5) USANG RYUNG and (2) FLYING ICE others who can be considered for at least the places.

Selections(8) Geuma Rejoice (4) Bangtanui Jeonsa (6) Raon The Legend (5) Usang Ryung
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

Competitive race. (7) BACKTOTHECHAMPION has two 3rd places from four attempts at this distance, most recently last time out on October 25th, when handy and running on. He carries his fair share of weight today but looks nicely in against this lot and he can win. (1) RICH TREE comes up in class having got his maiden win oat start number three on October 11th over 1400M. He comes up in trip too, but his running style so far suggests that it can suit, and he can measure up here. The wildcard is (6) LEMON DRAGON. He is the only one in the field to have won at this distance which he did all the way back in March. He then ran twice more without distinction before a layoff, during which he was gelded. He didn’t offer many clues in an October trial but Franco, who won on him, is up and he can be considered first-up here. (4) RED JASPER and (9) EONJENA YEONGUNG the others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Backtothechampion (1) Rich Tree (6) Lemon Dragon (4) Red Jasper
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 10

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

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 3)

Sunday 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:

Can Raon The Point return to winning ways on Sunday? (Pic: KRA(

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

(4) KHAN NUT has finished between 3rd and 5th in each of her three starts so far at 1200M and most recently at this distance at the end of August. She’s had nine weeks off since then so comes in fresh, she draws well, and she will be favoured to win this. (1) TROLL seems to finally be figuring things out, coming in off a career best finish to date when 3rd over this distance on October 6th. In this company a similar performance will see him very close. (7) DAZZLE RUSH hinted at ability when 5th on debut over 1200M on October 5th. The time wasn’t quick, but he should have come on for the run and can build on it here. (10) LUCKY SUNNY and (5) RUNNING ARTIST others to consider.

Selections(4) Khan Nut (1) Troll (7) Dazzle Rush (10) Lucky Sunny
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 10

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

(10) HANSEN BRACING has improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on September 14th. He was well beaten by a good winner, but the time he recorded was a full second faster than any of the others here have managed and he is the one to beat here. (11) LEGEND TANSAENG returned from nine months off to run 3rd at this distance on September 28th, settling back and running on. He should strip fitter for that run and shapes as the main danger. (6) MG FIRST has a 3rd and a 4th among four starts so far and he can be there or thereabouts again. (7) UMA DACHI is the sole debut-maker and having taken a long string of trials to get to the races, can be ready to perform well first-up. (2) GANDAGO is another to look out for.

Selections(10) Hansen Bracing (11) Legend Tansaeng (6) MG First (7) Uma Dachi
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start4, 8, 9, 10

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

Juvenile maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. The curiously named (3) GOOGLE CAR will be favourite. After winning a trial, he ran well for 3rd place on debut over 1000M on September 13th, settling back and running on. He should be better for the run, the step up in trip can suit, and he can win here. The rest of the experience isn’t great, so we’ll turn to the first-timers. (9) GREAT LUCKY ran 3rd in his trial earlier this month showing on pace. He can be on pace here too and in this a long way. (5) ROAD TO ACE similarly was 3rd in his trial, held together nicely enough. He ran through the line well and the 1200M can suit first up. Returning to those who have races, (12) WONDERFUL LARK and (2) YULIM SESANG perhaps have the best chance to improve.

Selections(3) Google Car (9) Great Lucky (5) Road To Ace (12) Wonderful Lark
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

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

(3) APPLE STYLE has two 4th places from three starts so far, most recently on October 6th when trying this distance for the first time settling back and running on. He comes into a better gate here and he can win. That will mean overturning the form on (9) YES MADAM, who ran 2nd in that October 6th race, her best finish to date when racing on pace. She has the challenge of the widest gate, but in this small field, that shouldn’t prove too problematic, and she has every chance. (2) CHEONJU MARKET was further back in that same race, but he does have a 2nd place to his name over this class as recently as August and he can be in the mix here. (6) SUNSHINE QUEEN and (8) THUNDER LUCKY other place chances.

Selections(3) Apple Style (9) Yes Madam (2) Cheonji Market (6) Sunshine Queen
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

(2) NEW LEADER has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record with the latter being just two starts back at 1200M. She draws well here, Munro returns to the mount, and she can win.  (4) CRAZY LEO has finished between 2nd and 4th in each of his three starts so far, most recently when beating a couple of these on October 6th. The time wasn’t quick, and he was a long way behind the winner, but he could have enough for this lot and will probably start as the betting favourite. (10) BEOLGYOUI HIM has raced just twice, improving in the second of them to run 4th over 1200M. That was back in August so he comes in here fresh and can continue to improve. (3) CANCAN STEP and (5) DALBITWIE others on the frame.

Selections(2) New Leader (4) Crazy Leo (10) Beolgyoui Him (3) Cancan Step
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 11

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

(1) K POWERFUL got his maiden win at start number four on September 28th, making all over 1400M and scoring with plenty to spare. That win had been coming, and while he comes up in class here, his time for the 1400M was much quicker than any of the others here have achieved and from the inside gate, he will be expected to win again. (5) CHEONJI SKY looks the best of a limited set of opponents. It’s been a long while since his solitary win, but he comes in with recent form reading well with back-to-back 3rd places from his latest two, both at this class and distance. He should be in the mix again here. (2) CHROMITE was 7th behind Cheonji Sky last time out but he has a 3rd place over this distance to his name and from a better draw, can be given another chance. (3) THEME TANSAENG and (4) NEMO SPIRIT other place chances.

Selections(1) K Powerful (5) Cheonji Sky (2) Chromite (3) Theme Tansaeng
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (November 1)

November kicks off with an 8-race Friday card at Busan from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

An astonishing amount of prize money on offer for this very ordinary small field of maidens. (1) SUCCESS GOLD ran 4th on debut over 1000M on October 11th, settling midfield and running on. She should have come on for that run and has as good a chance as any here. There are three debut-makers and among them, (4) WIND MIREU shapes as the best chance. He ran a close 2nd in her latest trial in a good time, and if he brings that form to the races, he will be in the mix here. (3) SIX HERO improved to 3rd at start number two on October 6th and the slight step up in trip can suit. (7) EAST SUN and (2) BIG OWNER are others who can improve.

Selections(1) Success Gold (4) Wind Mireu (3) Six Hero (7) East Sun
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 7

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

Fillies only in this maiden. (2) GREAT MARU has shown progress across three starts so far, culminating in a 4th place at this distance on October 11th when racing on pace. He draws well to be on pace again and he may take some beating. The solitary debut maker is (7) GEUMBIT TODAY. Her trial wasn’t quick, but she went round within herself, crossing the line a close 2nd and she couldn’t hope for a better race to debut in. (1) LIKE DRAGON comes in off a fair first couple of outings, both over 1000M. She has been doing her best work late and she should appreciate the step up in trip today. (8) SEOGWI OSEONGTAP and (5) HAEUNDAE SUNSHINE others who can improve in very ordinary company.

Selections(2) Great Maru (7) Geumbit Today (1) Like Dragon (8) Seogwi Oseongtap
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

(1) STORM FIGHTER has hinted at ability across three starts so far, most recently when 3rd over 1300M on October 11th, when settling midfield and running on. He can settle behind the speed here and could well prove too strong. (3) STEROPES seems to be figuring things out and enters off a smart 3rd place at this distance on October 4th. He too will try to settle just behind the early speed, and he can prove a danger late on. (5) CAPTAIN KOREA finished in 4th place behind Steropes in that race on October 4th. That was her second consecutive time troubling the scorers, and she can be in the hunt again here. (10) BURUI JEONSA and (4) BIG JAWS among others in contention.

Selections(1) Storm Fighter (3) Steropes (5) Captain Korea (10) Burui Jeonsa
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

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

(9) WONDERFUL BIDDER was a winner on debut and has since gone close across four tries at this class, most recently when 4th at this distance on September 27th. He has a smart turn of foot and can settle behind the speed and prove too strong here. The danger is on the outside. (10) BEOLMAUI ACE was 5th behind Wonderful Bidder in that September 27th race when sent off as favourite. Before that, he ran 3rd and 2nd at this class, and he can be going close here. (5) ONES HEYDAY mixes his form, but he comes in off a 2nd place at class and distance on October 6th, beating a few of today’s rivals in the process, and she can match or better that today. (3) SEOGWI OREUM and (7) DAEHOMA are others to consider.

Selections(9) Wonderful Bidder (10) Beolmaui Ace (5) Ones Heyday (3) Seogwi Oreum
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

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

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (October 27)

There’s no Stakes action but there is still plenty to get stuck into on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Captain Yankee goes around at Busan on Sunday. Aged 3 he won two legs of the Triple Crown (Pic: KRA)

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

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the ten racing for the first time. Experience goes on top though as (1) BEST RACE ran a solid 2nd place over this distance on debut on October 5th, racing on pace throughout and stopping the clock in a decent time. With any kind of natural improvement, he is hard to go past here. Among the debut-makers, there are a couple of standouts. (8) MR.STORM won his trial leading all the way around and if he brings that form to the races, he will be a chance. Meanwhile, (7) JISAN FORCE led for much of the way around in his trial, ultimately crossing the line 2nd in a good time. Moon Se-young’s presence will ensure he has plenty of first-up supporters. (9) QUEEN DIA and (5) SEMYEONG DIA are others with experience who may improve.

Selections(1) Best Race (8) Mr.Storm (7) Jisan Force (9) Queen Dia
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

More juvenile maidens. (1) ONE PUNCH DRAGON showed on pace on debut over this distance on September 28th, ultimately finishing 3rd. It was a run full of potential and from the inside gate again, he should be on pace here with every chance of going all the way this time. (6) GEUMA FOREMOST has raced twice, finishing 5th on debut over 1000M, and then 3rd at 1200M at the end of August. He comes in fresh following eight weeks off, and he can be in this, Like One Punch Dragon, (8) GRAND KWAEMA was 3rd on debut in his case over 1200M on September 29th. He too should have come on for the run and shapes as a danger. Solitary debut maker (7) WONDERFUL FAPPY (may get a spelling alteration) dominated a trial earlier this month and if he brings that form to the races, has to be in the mix. (9) ECLIPSE THE KING has run fairly in his first two appearances and may improve.

Selections(1) One Punch Dragon (6) Geuma Foremost (8) Grand Kwaema (7) Wonderful Fappy
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

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

Maiden fillies only here and anything could win. (9) NICE BUDDY ran 2nd on debut over this distance on September 27th well beaten by a good winner but showing promise. With some natural improvement, she has as much chance as any here. (6) DREAMMA enters off the back of two consecutive 4th place finishes, both at this distance and both times sitting just behind the speed and running on. She has the fastest time among these by a considerable margin (admittedly recorded in a week when the track was racing very fast) and she can be a danger. (3) WORLD ANGEL CAT returned from over three months out to run a much-improved 2nd over 1400M on October 11th, leading for much of the way. She makes a quick return here and draws well to lead again. (10) GOLDMASK and (12) DOLPHIN KICK are others to consider.

Selections(9) Nice Buddy (6) Dreamma (3) World Angel Cat (10) Goldmask
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

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

Two standouts here. Following an inauspicious debut, (10) HANURI was a close 4th at start number two over 1300M on September 14th, settling midfield and running on. He has the challenge of the widest gate but the slight step up in trip can suit and he can win. The danger is (8) ELDORADO HEUNGBU. He has a best of 3rd from three starts so far, having dropped back and run on each time. He should similarly benefit from the extended trip. (5) HIPPODROME is starting to get some consistency and enters off back-to-back 4th places, most recently when stepped up to this distance on June 30th. He has had seventeen weeks off since then and was lame in August, but he has been back in work since the second week of this month, and he can be competitive again here. (3) JEWELRY FASHION and (7) NEOMANEULWIHAESEO others in the frame.

Selections(10) Hanuri (8) Eldorado Heungbu (5) Hippodrome (3) Jewelry Fashion
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start1, 8, 9, 10

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

(10) COWBOY MAN came out of gate eleven over 1000M on debut on September 29th and finished off very well for a fair 6th of twelve in a race where the margins weren’t big. He should have come on for that run, the step up in trip can be to his benefit, Munro stays on and he can win. (7) RIGHT CHAMP stepped up to this trip at start number two on September 27th and from a handy position, ran on to run 2nd. In this company, he can be forward early, and he can be a threat. (6) BLACK SPEED has shown progress over three starts with his latest 4th place at 1200M being his best. You Hyun-myung climbs on here and he should be aiming to get even closer. (9) HI LEGEND and (2) TEAM SURPRISE others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(10) Cowboy Man (7) Right Champ (6) Black Speed (9) Hi Legend
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) FLASH GOLD did nothing on debut but was a much-improved 2nd at start number two over 1400M on September 28th when handy throughout. Third-up he can be peaking fitness wise, and he shapes as the one to beat here. (9) USEUNG JINLI is the danger. He went through plenty of trials before debuting, which he finally did over 1200M on September 28th, settling back and running through the line well. He should have derived benefit from that run, and the step up in trip can suit. (7) POSEIDON BLUE enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at 1300M and both times finishing off well. He should be there or thereabouts again. (2) COMMAND BLUE hinted at improvement last time out and can build on her 5th place, while (4) SUPER BLUEMOON is another seemingly on the right trajectory.  

Selections(6) Flash Gold (9) Useung Jinli (7) Poseidon Blue (2) Command Blue
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

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

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Busan Friday: Race-by-Race Preview (October 25)

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

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

Juvenile maidens with five of the ten racing for the first time. If you’ve been given a name like (1) ALL TIME LEGEND, you’d better be good, and the Hansen colt showed enough on debut to suggest he might be. He ran 2nd over this distance on September 8th only going down narrowly having led for most of the way. He should have come on for that run and will be a short-priced favourite to go one better here. After winning a trial, (7) MOTHER CHUKJE was sent off as favourite on debut over 1000M on September 27th and ran a solid 2nd place. He too should have derived benefit from the experience and can be a danger. (2) SWORD MASTER also debuted in that race and was just half a length back in 3rd. He draws better today and with Munro up, could overturn that form. (10) BEOLGYO WANGCHO did little on debut but previously looked good in a trial and with Hye-sun booked, will be backed to improve, Of the debut-makers, (4) DUSTIN MARINE looked best in trials.

Selections(1) All Time Legend (7) Mother Chukje (2) Sword Master (10) Beolgyo Wangcho
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

(2) DONGNAM GANGTAJA raced twice in the summer, improving to start number two over 1300M on August 18th. He hasn’t raced since but he has kept fit and trialed in September. He draws well here and can win this. (1) BLACK WAVE will need a line drawn though her latest when she was never a factor. Instead, we’ll go on her effort two starts back when 2nd over this distance. She draws the same gate today as she did then, and she warrants another chance. (7) RALLY MAN has shown progress across three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place over 1400M on September 27th. He has a 4th place at this distance and shapes as a danger. (10) CHEONGWAN and (6) BORYEONGJEOKTOMA are other potential improvers.

Selections(2) Dongnam Gangtaja (1) Black Wave (7) Rally Man (10) Cheongwan
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 10

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

Another warm favourite here in the shape of (9) DREAM TREE. After kicking off his career with three straight 4th place finishes, he improved to 2nd at his latest when tried over the mile for the first time on September 13th and settling midfield and running on. He looks ready to go one better here. (6) SEOBU CAPTAIN has lots of experience over the mile and comes in following his best effort to date, when 2nd on September 29th. Ueda stays on and a similar run will see him in the mix here. (10) HANEUL MANJEOM returned from nine months out to run a fair 5th of eleven over 1200M on September 6th. He managed a 2nd and a 3rd before the lay off and he should strip fitter for that run last month. (7) B.K. MARON and (2) WORLD TAEYANG are other placing chances.

Selections(9) Dream Tree (6) Seobu Captain (10) Haneul Manjeom (7) B.K. Maron
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 10

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

(1) UNJU CHALLENGE got her maiden win at start number two over 1400M on September 27th, leading all the way. She comes up in class and in trip but neither should be an issued and she can go all the way again. (2) HELLO SUNSHINE is the main danger. He got his solitary win all the way back at start number two but following a seven-month layoff, he returned in August and has finished 3rd in back-to-back races over 1200M and 1300M. He comes up to the mile for the first time, and he carries his fair share of weight, but third-up, he can be peaking fitness-wise, and he looks right in this.  It gets difficult after those two. (9) BACKTOTHECHAMPION is rarely too far away and has a 3rd place to his name over the mile. He can be backed here. (7) NANGMAN DAERO and (3) THE WIND others to consider.

Selections(1) Unju Challenge (2) Hello Sunshine (9) Backtothechampion (7) Nangman Daero
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 10

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

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Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (October 20)

Plenty going on Sunday around Korean racing with the G3 Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup, featuring another clash between Jeulgeounyeojeong and Wonderful Slew the highlight. Both Busan and Seoul also host legs of the Juvenile Series. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:05. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong and Alan Munro will be back in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Small field of juvenile maidens with (3) GLOBAL TIME as the warm favourite. He comes in having run 3rd and 2nd in his two starts so far, most recently over 1200M on September 15th when he led until the closing stages. Third up he can be peaking and from a good draw he can lead again, and this time go one better. (4) MUNHAK BOY debuted in that September 15th race and ran a very solid 3rd, coming from off the pace. He was five-lengths behind Global Time so he has plenty to make up, the slight step up in trip can suit and he should have some natural improvement. (1) GWANAKSAN GLOBAL did nothing on debut make in July but has since been back to trial where he looked a better prospect, and he can improve today. Debut-maker (8) RAON THE AFFIRMED trialed up with Munhak Boy, finishing 3rd to his 2nd and she can go well first up while the other first-timer (2) BEOLGYO BAKGANGGUL also hinted at ability in a trial. 

Selections(3) Global Time (4) Munhak Boy (1) Gwanaksan Global (8) Raon The Affirmed
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

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

Standard maiden here with (2) WONDERFUL NORTHERN the standout. He didn’t do much on debut but in two subsequent starts, has landed a close 2nd followed by a 3rd, both at 1200M. Both times he did his best work late on and stepping up to 1400M may be just what he needs to make the breakthrough. (7) CHRYSOL MAJOR came from well off the pace to land a best to date 2nd place over 1300M on September 29th, well behind a good winner, but showing promise and he won’t need to improve much to go close here. (5) ORANGE TIME too improved to 2nd place at his latest start on September 15th and is another for who the additional distance may benefit. (8) CRAZE CHANG and (3) GANGCHEOL DRAGON among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Wonderful Northern (7) Chrysol Major (5) Orange Time (8) Craze Chang
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time. Moon Se-young is in town to ride Wonderful Slew in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup later and he picks up a potential winner here on the shape of (7) FLYING CHAMPION. After an inauspicious debut, he has finished 2nd and 4th in two subsequent outings at 1200M and 1400M and he won’t need to improve much, if at all, to beat this lot. (9) EUNBIT DAERO is the only other experienced one with any form to speak of, having run 4th on debut in a decent time over 1000M. With some natural improvement she can get close here. (10) DOCTOR CURLIN did nothing at start number two but if we go on his 5th of eleven form a wide draw on debut, he can shape as a place chance. Other than that it is the debut-makers and (1) DAEGIL HERO and (3) WONDERFUL FORTUNE were the best in trials.

Selections(7) Flying Champion (9) Eunbit Daero (10) Doctor Curlin (1) Daegil Hero
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

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

(4) SCALE KING is yet to win in eight attempts but got promoted to this level with a few too many near-misses and then showed he can compete with a 3rd place over 1200M on September 14th when handy throughout. He has raced well at this trip already and today can be his day. Probably betting favourite is (6) STING JET. After running 4th on debut, he was a winner at start number two over 1200M on September 15th when tracking the leader and pulling away late. He is up in class and slightly in trip but is down in the weights and can measure up. (3) AUSTIN LEADER mixes his form, but this is the kind of company among which he can compete for at least a place. (11) BELOTERO and (7) EAST RISING among others in the frame.

Selections(4) Scale King (6) Sting Jet (3) Austin Leader (11) Belotero
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

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

(11) NINETY PLUS got his maiden in at start number two on August 11th before running 2nd in the valuable Gangseo-gu Mayor’s Trophy for juveniles on September 8th, settling midfield and running on. He has by far the quickest final furlong among these, and the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem (2) HAPPY CHARMING was a front-running winner on debut over 1200M on September 8th. She comes up in class and in distance here and from a good draw, she can get on pace, and she can win again. (7) ROAD TO FIGHTER is up in class following a maiden win over 1200M at start number three on September 13th. He doesn’t get much of a weight break, but he can measure up here. (8) WE LIKE MONEY and (6) DOCTOR FIGHTER among plenty of other place chances in a competitive race.

Selections(11) Ninety Plus (2) Happy Charming (7) Road To Fighter (8) We Like Money
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (October 18)

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

Masa “Magic Hands” Tanaka rode 5 winners at Busan last week (Pic: KRA)

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

Maiden juvenile fillies in the opener with six of the eleven racing for the first time. (2) GEUMA DOMINANT was a solid 3rd on debut over 1000M on September 6th, racing handy throughout. She should have benefitted from the experience, she draws well, and with Munro climbing up, she can win here. (9) QUEEN RACE was 5th on debut behind the excellent prospect Winner Clear. She too should have some natural improvement here and shapes as a danger. Among the debut-makers (4) CATCH THE DREAM is the standout. She won her trial with an on-pace effort and if she brings that form to the races, she will be close first-up. (6) MIRAGE ran 2nd in her trial, settling handy and running on and can also be considered on debut. (11) A GOLD BAR took three goes to qualify but looked capable when finally managing it at the end of September.

Selections(2) Geuma Dominant (9) Queen Race (4) Catch The Dream (6) Mirage
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with two of the nine racing for the first time. (2) BEOLMA WINNER is the probable favourite, having finished 4th on debut over 1200M on September 15th, racing close to the speed throughout. He comes into a better gate here and with some natural improvement, may take some beating. (6) B.K DREAM is the only one in the field to have raced twice already. He ran a good 4th on debut before finishing down the field in the Gangseo-gu Mayor’s Trophy on September 8th. Today’s company is much more amenable and third-up he may have a fitness edge. (4) SEKWANG LIGHT is another who was 4th on debut, in his case over the minimum distance on September 13th when slow away and running on from well off the pace. The step up in trip may suit and he can be a danger late. (5) FLYING THE KHAN and (3) PARU others who can improve.

Selections(2) Beolma Winner (6) B.K Dream (4) Sekwang Light (5) Flying The Khan
Next Best3, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 9

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

Competitive maiden. (1) PINOT POWER stepped up to a mile at his latest outing and ran a fair 5th of eleven having settled in midfield. We are more interested though in his effort two starts back over this trip when he led for much of the way over today’s distance and was only very narrowly beaten into 2nd. He draws nicely to lead here and will surely be in this a long way. (2) LIME TREE will compete with him for favourite status. He too has a 2nd place on his record, albeit miles behind Winner Clear at start number two over 1200M in August. He was a fair 4th at 1300M on his latest start and won’t need to improve much to go close here. (4) TRIPLE SINHWA was an encouraging 4th on debut over 1200M on September 1st, coming from well off the pace. He should have come on for that and the 1400M should suit. (11) NEW LEADER and (7) GWANGSOKMA others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Pinot Power (2) Lime Tree (4) Triple Sinhwa (11) New Leader
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

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

(3) WORLD HIT was a winner on debut over 1000M on September 13th, leading for most of the way around and crossing the line plenty to the good. He comes up in class and in distance here, but he draws well and can maintain his 100% record. (1) GANGSEO BULPAE is yet to win in seven attempts but comes in having been 3rd in both her latest two at this class over 1300M and she should be there or thereabouts again. (9) FLYING DANU won her first two starts the Spring with the second being at this class over 1300M. She then went lame on her third appearance in May and hasn’t raced since. She didn’t offer too many clues in a September trial in which she dead heated for 4th in a fair time, but she has ability and can be a threat first up but has to be taken on trust. (5) QUEEN AND SERVE and (10) GOOD KING MAN others who come in with recent form reading well and can be in the mix.

Selections(3) World Hit (1) Gangseo Bulpae (9) Flying Danu (5) Queen And Serve
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 9

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

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