Busan

President’s Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan (November 19)

Winner’s Man will attempt to complete a “Grand Slam” of local G1 events in the President’s Cup at Seoul on Sunday afternoon. https://korearacing.live/2023/11/18/winners-man-bids-for-g1-grand-slam-in-presidents-cup/See here for a full horse by horse guide to the big race which is race 8 on the 11-race Sunday Seoul card which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 6 races at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here is the race-by-race:

Winner’s Man comes in off KRA Cup Classic success last month (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) FRESH MAN is the one to beat having run 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 7th racing on pace throughout. He draws well, the step up in trip shouldn’t be a problem, and he can go one better this time. (10) MOMO K debuted at this trip on October 14th and came from off the pace to run a fair 3rd. He should be better for the run and can go close again. Among the first-time starters, (8) BEOLGYO CHADOL looks the best. She went through two trials, improving in the second of them when 2nd across the line in a decent time. Bringing that form to the races will see her go close. (2) BEST WHIZ and (11) PASALUBONG others who can enter the frame.

Selections(4) Fresh Man (10) Momo K (8) Beolgyo Chadol (2) Best Whiz
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Standard maiden here. (5) MIGHTY CAP ran 4th on debut over 1000M before stepping up to today’s distance to run 2nd on October 14th having led almost the entire way around. She draws nicely to lead again, and she will be hot favourite to score here. The rest of the exposed form is not great, although (7) THUNDER GALLOPER will probably be second favourite on the strength of his last start 4th place at this distance, his best to date. A repeat of that run could see him get closer in this company. Given the paucity of quality opponents, debut-maker (2) SLAM DRAGON has to be given a chance. It’s hard to judge his trial as it was run slowly but he finished off pleasingly enough and draws nicely. (3) CLOVER PARTY and (11) GOLDEN LINE are the other logical place chances.

Selections(5) Mighty Cap (7) Thunder Galloper (2) Slam Dragon (3) Clover Party
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Two standouts here. (1) SAENAE VIVA led almost the entire way around last time out on October 9th only to be taken down by the favourite late on. That was her first start since April, and she should strip fitter for the run and from a nice draw can go one better here. The main danger is (2) POWERFUL VISION. She has shown steady improvement across four starts so far, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1200M on October 7th when handy throughout. She too should be on the speed and really it is a toss-up between her and Saenae Viva for favourite status. (6) STEALTH PARK will be third favourite He was 5th behind Saene Viva on October 9th and at the start before ran 2nd, well back behind a good winner, but having raced on pace, over this distance. He can sit handy and run on here. (4) MACH YEOJE and (10) GEOMUI JEONSEOL are others in the placing hunt.

Selections(1) Saenae Viva (2) Powerful Vision (6) Stealth Park (4) Mach Yeoje
Next Best10, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Very tricky maiden to open at Busan. (7) YONGBI CHEONWANG improved at start number three when tried at this distance for the first time on October 13th, racing on pace throughout. There could still be some improvement in the tank, and he can get to the lead here and potentially go all the way. (5) BEST LEADER secured a runner-up finish two starts back having almost managed to lead the whole way around. She followed it up with a 5th place in a decent time over 1200M on October 20th when this time coming from off the pace. The additional half furlong can suit, and she should be close. (9) STORMING MAGIC has a couple of 4th places among four outings to date including the fastest time in the field for the distance and she can be close here. (3) BEST PRIME and (4) DAESEUNGNIJA others to consider for the minors.

Selections(7) Yongbi Cheonwang (5) Best Leader (9) Storming Magic (3) Best Prime
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) MIRAE TOWER comes in off a runner-up finish over 1200M on October 22nd when for the first time he was ridden to lead. He comes up in trip but Moon Se-young stays aboard and similar tactics can be expected here. (5) WONDERFUL SEEKING has raced just twice improving to 4th place at start number two when running on from midfield. She can continue to get closer today. (4) POWER ETCHED beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over 1200M on October 21st when coming from off the pace. He already has a runner-up finish to his name over this distance and in this company can be on speed and in this a long way. (6) TRES VITE and (11) SHARP SUNSHINE look to be the other place chances.

Selections(3) Mirae Tower (5) Wonderful Seeking (4) Power Etched (6) Tres Vite
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(8) ARA NURI enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at 1200M, first from racing handy and then from closing well. In this inauspicious company, she can be expected to be ridden on pace and while any top three placing will see her exit class 6, it should really be with a win. (2) HAVE A GOOD YEAR looks the second best. He has a 2nd place on his resume over this distance and while he races for the first time since June, he won a trial in late October in a fast time making all and if he can bring anything like that form to the races, he shouldn’t be far away. (7) TAEPUNGI CHUKJE has a 3rd place to his name, recorded prior to a five-an-a-half month layoff. He returned underwhelmingly earlier this month but should have come on for the run and can be closer here. (5) MAGIC Q and (1) STORMY DAY possibly the best of a limited rest.

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

President’s Cup weekend gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the twelve racing for the first time. It will be one of those first-timers who is the favourite. (8) ASTRO KING went through two trials, running on pace in both and finishing 2nd in both. His times were fast, especially in the second of those trials, and if he brings that form to the races, he will take some beating. (4) HI CHAMP led for most of the way around on debut over this distance on October 20th, ultimately finishing a close 2nd in a decent time. He draws nicely to be on pace, and he can be a big threat to the newcomer. (3) ARION KING has raced twice and while both efforts have been a touch plain, his time in his latest was good. He is another who can be on speed and can improve again here. (2) HI LEGEND and debut maker (6) CHEONHA GEONGANG others in the frame.

Selections(8) Astro King (4) Hi Champ (3) Arion King (2) Hi Legend
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

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

Twelve imported juveniles go around here with six racing for the first time. The six who have raced once each all did it in the same race over 1000M on October 20th and it was (9) BEOLMAUI YEONGUNG who ran out the winner, racing on pace throughout.  They stretch out to 1200M today but there seems little reason to oppose him following up. The main danger this time could be one of the first timers. (4) BIWOL sat midfield in his trial before running on strongly to cross the line in front in a quick time. 1200M should suit first up and he can go close. (11) VICE ROYAL ran 3rd in that October 20th race and that’s enough to put him in the numbers here. (7) TROUBLE MARINE was 4th and along with newcomer (8) NICE BIG GUY, is another who could trouble the scorers.

Selections(9) Beolmaui Yeongung (4) Biwol (11) Vice Royal (7) Trouble Marine
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Fillies only in this maiden and (1) AUTUMN BREEZE will be hot favourite. It took her a couple of goes to figure things out, but she has posted a 3rd and a 2nd in her latest two at 1300M and 1200M, both times racing on pace and both in quick times. She draws very nicely again and won’t need to improve much to win this. (3) SANGIM STAR has shown steady improvement across three appearances so far, most recently a runner-up finish at this distance on October 20th when handy throughout. She can be in the mix here. She will be vying for 2nd-favourite status with (2) UNJU TWO HEARTS. She too has a 2nd place on her resume which came back in August over this distance. She followed up with a 4th place on October 20th in a stronger race than this and she should be there or thereabouts again. (6) LUCKY HIT and (9) WONDERFUL KAYLAN others in the frame.

Selections(1) Autumn Breeze (3) Sangim Star (2) Unju Two Hearts (6) Lucky Hit
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Two standouts here who come in off identical results on their respective debuts. (10) BEAT DRAGON had hinted at having some speed in his trials and he came from off the pace to run 4th on debut over 1200M on October 27th. He was doing his best work late and the step up to 1400M should suit. (2) HI WINNER was also 4th on debut, in her case on October 29th when settling midfield and running on over 1200M. She too should have come on for that experience and can also appreciate the additional furlong. (5) SSING GA will need a line drawn through her latest, but she has a runner-up finish to her name over 1300M and on that form she can be competitive here. (11) ILNYEOM SINHWA and (6) TODAY QUEEN are others in the placing frame.

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Sprinter Showdown Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (November 12)

The sprinters have their final chance of 2023 of a big prize at Busan on Sunday afternoon when the likes of Eoma Eoma, Beolmaui Star and Ssonsal line up over 1400M in the local G3 Kookje Shinmun Trophy. See here for full preview. The big race is race 5 on a 6-race card at Busan that runs from 11.50 to 16:35. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are all the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener and there will be a hot favourite. That’s (3) HERE I AM who after an ordinary debut has registered a 2nd and a 4th in two subsequent starts, both over this trip, and both times racing on pace. He has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and from a good draw, he should have too much here. The second quickest time belongs to (10) GEOLJAK EUTTEUM. That was recorded on his second start when coming from off the pace and finishing as runner-up, a long way behind a good winner but well clear of 3rd. He did nothing on his reappearance in October, but that 2nd is enough to give him a chance here. (1) HAKSAN DAESE has finished off both his races to date well and was 5th when stepped up to this trip. Expect him to be running on and threatening the places here. (6) LONDON VICTORY and first-time starter (8) SOLAIRE other place chances.

Selections(3) Here I Am (10) Geoljak Eutteum (1) Haksan Daese (6) London Victory
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Fillies (and one mare) in this maiden. (8) TAEPYEONGMU shapes as a probable favourite here. She has six top-five finishes from nine starts and has posted consistent times at this distance. She likes to race on or close to the pace, and today can be here day. (7) HAYAN TAEYANG raced twice in the spring for 6th and 4th and then returned after five months off to run 5th of nine over this distance on October 14th. She should strip fitter for that run and is potentially the danger. In a race with not much early speed, (9) GOLDEN FLYING may well find herself up with Taepyeongmu setting the pace. Her form his fair and she can be competitive. (2) CHONGAL COLONEL and (10) YEJIMONG among other minor money hopes.

Selections(8) Taepyeongmu (7) Hayan Taeyang (9) Golden Flying (2) Chongal Colonel
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) ACRO MARINE has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in a 2nd place over 1200M on October 8th when he was ridden much further forward than in his first two starts. Moon Se-young climbs aboard today and he can settle behind the early speed and prove too strong. (2) HANGANG TSAR was an improved 2nd over this distance on October 14th. He hasn’t exactly set the stopwatch alight but from a nice draw he can go close again. (1) THEME TANSAENG will be expected to be on pace here and enters with a 3rd and a 4th among his latest three. A repeat of either of those performances will see him challenging for better in this company. (10) BULGEUN POKPUNG and (4) WONDERFUL REGAL among others who could make it into the minor money.

Selections(5) Acro Marine (2) Hangang Tsar (1) Theme Tansaeng (10) Bulgeun Pokpung
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the eleven racing for the first time. (6) HUIMANG CANDY will be the hot favourite.  After finishing 5th on debut, she was an improved 2nd at start number two on October 13th racing on pace and leading in the closing stages only to be narrowly beaten. She can be on pace or handy here and prove too strong. (11) OVER THE TRIPLE looks an interesting debut-maker from the Bart Rice stable. He came from well back to easily win an October trial in quick time and if he can bring that form to the races, he is a chance. (7) DOCTOR ERICA was 3rd behind Huimang Candy when debuting in that October 13th race and was on the speed throughout. With some natural improvement she can go close again. (2) POWERFUL DASH actually beat Huimang Candy on the latter’s debut and along with (9) KOHINOOR is another in the hunt.

Selections(6) Huimang Candy (11) Over The Triple (7) Doctor Erica (2) Powerful Dash
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies only and it’s a competitive race. (1) SINUI YEOJE was a winner over 1000M at start number two in September before running 5th of eleven when favourite for her first try at this class over 1200M on October 22nd when handy throughout. She comes into a much better gate tonight so could well get a softer run to the lead and if she does, she can win. (5) GALSAEK HYANGGI enters off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two at this class with the 2nd being at this distance. She likes to settle back and run on, and she should be a danger late here. (3) LADY CODI has similar form to Sinui Yeoje with a win over 1000M followed by a really good 4th at this class on October 14th in a similar all-filly race at 1200M. She is well drawn and should be in the mix. (10) GEOLJAK ONE and (7) SESANG APEURO the others in the hunt.

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener. After winning a late August trial, (6) WORLD DRAGON debuted over 1200M on October 8th and beat three of today’s rivals when a front-running 3rd in a decent time. He should have come on for the run, he’ll be on pace again, and he can win. Debut-maker (5) VALHALLA led all the way in his trial, stopping the clock in a good time. It was only last Saturday so as long as he didn’t leave his race there, he can go well first-up. (4) BINNANEUNGIL has two 4th places and a 2nd in three outings to date. Last time out he led over 1400M before fading late and he should be in the mix here. (8) SUCCESS BAEKPA was 4th behind World Dragon in that October 8th race and can get close again. (3) BROWN FALCON another seemingly on the right trajectory.

Selections(6) World Dragon (5) Valhalla (4) Binnaneungil (8) Success Baekpa
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Standard maiden here. (5) STRIKE ZONE has a 4th, a 3rd, and a 2nd from three starts so far with that latter being his most recent on October 27th when on pace throughout before going down to a good winner. He comes up to 1300M for the first time, he should be on pace again, and he can go one better again. (7) MOST RAPID led for the first tie on October 13th over 1400M, ultimately staying on for 2nd. He ran 5th on a previous try at this distance and should be in the mix today. (1) DOCTOR CAPTAIN overcame gate eleven to run a fair 5th in a decent time at 1200M three weeks ago. He draws much better today, and a similar run can see him in the finish this time. (8) DORAON ZETTA and (9) GEUMSON CLASS others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(5) Strike Zone (7) Most Rapid (1) Doctor Captain (8) Doraon Zetta
Next Best9, 10
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies. (7) ALICE MARINE has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two with a 3rd and a 4th, both at this distance in both in fair times having been ridden forward. She’ll be on or close to the pace here, Seo Seung-un climbs on, and she has as good a chance as any. The main danger is (5) ROAD STAR. Another front-runner, she has posted consistent times at 1000M and then at 1200M. She’ll be competing for the lead from the start and will be in this a long way. (6) SMART SMILE was a much-improved 3rd at start number two on over this distance on October 20th when settling back and running on and she can build on that here. (10) PERFECT WINNER and (9) CHOEGANG WEEK among others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Alice Marine (5) Road Star (6) Smart Smile (10) Perfect Winner
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(6) WONDERFUL IMPACT has finished between 3rd and 5th on no fewer than six occasions from ten starts including her last start 4th over this distance when settling just behind the speed and finishing off well. Antonio Da Silva, in town to ride in Sunday’s Group race, is aboard and in this company, she can win. She’ll be favourite, ahead of (3) DAEHO PREDATOR, who despite only just scarping through a qualifying trial debuted well in late September, settling back and running on for 5th over this trip. He should have benefitted from the experience and can get closer this time. (1) CHEONSU SIDAE pulled out a career best 4th last time out at big odds and coming from well off the pace and beating a couple of these. An apprentice keeps the weight down and a repeat or better isn’t impossible. (5) MIRACULUM and (4) AQUARIUS others in the placing frame.

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Juvenile Series Part 2 Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (November 5)

The Juvenile Series continues at both Seoul and Busan on Sunday afternoon with the two tracks having their final separate races before they come together for the Breeders’ Cup finale in December. Baekduui Kkum will be hot favourite for the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy at Busan having won both the Rookie Stakes and Areumdaun Jilju Stakes, while at Seoul, with the first two home in the Monhwa Ilbo Trophy not in attendance, Lala K will be favoured to get back to winning ways. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here are the previews:

Lala K will be expected to return to winning ways at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies in the opener with all but one racing for the first time. (3) WONDERFUL PASS gets the nod having won her trial in a fair time on October 20th when racing handy throughout. She draws nicely here and if she brings that form to the races, she can win. (9) NESSUN DORMA came through the same trial, finishing 2nd lest than a length in arrears. She had led for much of the way around so she has to contend with a slightly wide draw here, but she should be competitive. (7) RAON PANORAMA went through two trials and showed a bit more maturity in the second of them when a close 3rd in an average time. That’s enough to put her in contention here. (6) SHACKLE POINT and (2) BRGHT HANSEN others who hinted at ability in their respective heats.

Selections(3) Wonderful Pass (9) Nessun Dorma (7) Raon Panorama (6) Shackle Point
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) WINNER DRAGON looks the one to beat here. He has a 2nd place to his name and comes in off a last start 3rd over this distance on October 7th when he settled midfield and ran on, not going down by much. He has the fastest time among these for the distance by some margin and may prove hard to beat this time. (8) HAKSAN MACHO has shown steady progress across three starts so far, most recently 4th over this distance on October 7th when settling right back and running on. He has a good finish on him and can run into some money again. (10) HEY MAMA has a couple of 3rd places in her recent form and with Johan climbing aboard today can aim for the places. (11) SEONGSIL YEONGUNG and newcomer (4) DREAM CARD are others who could potentially go close.

Selections(3) Winner Dragon (8) Haksan Macho (10) Hey Mama (11) Seongsil Yeongung
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Fillies and mares only here (7) STARTER was sent off as favourite on debut over 1000M on October 7th and duly obliged, leading every step of the way and crossing the line three-lengths to the good in a quick time. She comes up in both class and distance today, but neither should be an issue, and in restricted filly and mare company, she will be strongly favoured to maintain her 100% record. (11) TAEPYEONG FIGHTER got her maiden two starts back over this distance before running 2nd on her first try at this class on October 9th. She likes to race handy so she has to deal with the wide draw as well as an additional 3kg on her back, but she can go close again. (4) AL SIMON has been working her way back into form in recent efforts and there is no reason why she can’t come off the pace to at least match her last starts 3rd. (10) SMART SOCKS and (3) HAPPY PLAY others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Starter (11) Taepyeong Fighter (4) Al Simon (10) Smart Socks
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) CHARMING BEST took a couple of goes to find his feet but has looked to be figuring things out in his latest two with a 4th and most recently a 2nd place over this distance. Last time out he led for much of the way and stopped the clock in a time significantly quicker than any of today’s rivals have managed. He draws well and should win. (7) KING FIGHTER too comes in off a good 2nd place at this distance on October 6th when he led until the closing stages. An apprentice keeps the weight down and he should be on pace and in this a long way once more. (6) WONDERFUL ONE raced well for 3rd over 1300M two weeks ago. He makes a quick return here and can be in the finish again. (8) LAND BANK and (11) COLONEL FLYING are among plenty of other placing chances.

Selections(3) Charming Best (7) King Fighter (6) Wonderful One (8) Land Bank
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

The favourite here will be (4) ONE SPEAR. He got his maiden win two starts back over 1400M and then ran a strong 3rd over this class and distance on October 7th when settling right back and then finishing off smoothly.  He draws slightly better today to be ridden perhaps in midfield and he can use his strong finish to return to the winner’s circle. (8) ARGO MUJEOK comes back in trip after middling efforts at slightly further. The last time he raced at 1300M he won, albeit at class 6, and he can be a danger here. (10) EINSPANNER hasn’t quite lived up to his impressive debut but comes in off a front-running 3rd place over 1200M and will probably cross and attempt to lead again. If he can find a forward position and save some energy, then he can be in this a long way. (3) NAOL SKY and (11) CHADOL RUN other possibles.

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

November’s racing kicks off on Friday at Busan with 9 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (5) SEKWANG CHOEGANG, who after a positive trial ran well for 2nd on debut over 1000M on October 6th, settling back and finishing off well. He should have improved for the run and the additional furlong looks set to suit. (10) BIG MORE is the pick of the newcomers. He led for most of the way around in his trial, ultimately finishing 2nd and stopping the clock in a time faster than Sekwang Choegang posted in his actual race. He draws a touch wide for comfort here but if he can bring that form to the races, he will be a big danger. (3) FANTASTIC HUMOR came through the same trial, finishing 3rd, albeit a good distance behind Big More, and can go well first up. (8) DAEJIUIYEOJEONSA debuted well for 4th place in a quick race at 1000M in September and can build on that here. (11) CONCORD PARK was an improved 3rd over 1400M at his latest start and looks a good shout for minor money here.

Selections(5) Sekwang Choegang (10) Big More (3) Fantastic Humor (8) Daejiuiyeojeonsa
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies. (7) RUNNING TREE trialled up fast in August before finishing 6th on debut over this distance on September 22nd having shown on pace. She should have come on for that experience, Seo Seung-un climbs up, and she looks the one to beat here. (3) SSING GA is the only three-year-old and the only one with a top-two finish to her name. That came two starts back at 1300M when ridden handy. She followed it up with a fair 4th last time out and from a nice gate, she can sit behind the speed and challenge late here. (9) MAGIC ELEVEN comes in off front-running 3rd place in a similar filly race at this distance on October 6th. She was well beaten by a good winner but only narrowly beaten out of 2nd and she can go close again. (1) THE BIG SHOT and (4) LOLLY are others in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Running Tree (3) Ssing Ga (9) Magic Eleven (1) The Big Shot
Next Best4, 8
Fast Start7, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) ACE GOOD JOB is the pick here. She ran well on debut but then seemingly lost her way before figuring things out again in her latest two when she was 2nd and 4th, both over 1200M. She finished off well both times and the step up to 1400M can see her coming home on top today. (4) WONDERFUL CHACHA enters off a runner-up finish over this distance on September 10th when ridden much further forward than usual. He’s drawn well for similar tactics today and looks a solid placing chance again. (9) JANGSAN LEMON ran like the proverbial lemon when favourite on debut in March but followed it up with a 2nd and 4th. He hasn’t raced since June but looked well when 3rd in an October trial and he should be competitive here. (3) TAEPUNGUI CHUKJE also returns after a lengthy absence and will need to be taken on trust although he had an easy trial last Saturday. (10) CAPTAIN CHARLIE another in the hunt.

Selections(5) Ace Good Job (4) Wonderful Chacha (9) Jangsan Lemon (3) Taepungui Chukje
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

An also-ran in the Rookie Stakes, (4) BLACK SPRING bounced back to get his maiden win at start number three over 1200M on October 8th, settling handy and finishing off well. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be a problem and he can win again here. (9) BORN DIA was a winner on debut in July over 1000M before also getting her chance in the Rookie Stakes. She too was an also-ran, but she finished ahead of Black Spring. She then ran 6th of eight in the Listed Areumdaun Jilju Stakes for juveniles. She returns to shallower waters here and can get close. (7) KING ANYDAY was a maiden winner at 1400M in July and while a try at a mile didn’t go well, he has found his feet at this level with a 3rd and a 4th over 1200M in his latest two. He can be on pace and in this a long way. (8) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE and (6) UNMATCHED other potential contenders for the minors.

Selections(4) Black Spring (9) Born Dia (7) King Anyday (8) Choegang Mujigae
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

No fewer than four of these come up in class following last start maiden wins and they will be at the top of the market here. Favourite will be (6) TEAM PERFECT, who ran 3rd on debut over 1000M at the start of September before winning at start number two at this distance on October 6th when making all. The margin was a dominant one and she won’t need to improve much to win again. (2) LAST DRAGON was sent off as favourite on debut having impressed in a trial and he duly obliged despite being slow out of the gate and having to come from behind over 1000M. He should have matured because of that and can get close again with the extra furlong perhaps being beneficial. (1) OUR DESTINY won her trial and won her debut on October 6th, leading all the way over 1000M. It wasn’t a fast time, but she draws well here and can measure up. (7) GLORY CROWN ran in the Rookie Stakes and came out of it to score his maiden win over this distance on October 6th, coming from off the pace. He can challenge late here. Among those with prior experience at this level, (8) DAHAMKKEDALLIJA is the best.

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Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (October 29)

The best filly or mare in Korea returns to action on Sunday as Jeulgeounyeojeong, the Triple Tiara winner, lines up for the second leg of the Queens’ Tour fall and winter in the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Busan on Sunday afternoon. The big race is race 5 of a 6-race card at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong should be too good again on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens and plenty look like they have a win in them. (1) GEUMAK JINJU has a 3rd and a 2nd in two starts so far, both over 1000M in good times and racing on pace. He draws very nicely here, the additional furlong shouldn’t be a problem, and he can win. (6) MULLEBANGA comes in off a strong 3rd place over this distance on September 23rd when settling midfield and running on. It was a decent time, and a similar performance would put him in the finish again. (8) YONGAM MARENGO similarly enters following a good 3rd place, in his case over 1000M on September 16th. He was doing his best work late and the additional furlong can suit. (9) FINAL GO and (4) MAGIC STRONG are among plenty of others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(1) Geumak Jinju (6) Mullebanga (8) Yongam Marengo (9) Final Go
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) SUPER ONE will be hot favourite in this ordinary maiden. He’s shown steady improvement across his latest couple of starts with a 5th and a 4th, the latter at this distance on September 23rd when racing much handier than in his previous starts. From a good gate he should so the same here and is the one to beat. (10) MAX MA enters off back-to-back 4th places in the summer, leading both times. He has been back to trial since his latest outing and looked well. He draws a touch wide but if he can get on pace, he should go close. (6) AUSTIN LEADER has a 2nd place on his record over this distance and should be there or thereabouts again. (11) SHOUT KURO and (4) HEART K are others with the potential to improve.

Selections(2) Super One (10) Max Ma (6) Austin Leader (11) Shout Kuro
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(9) LONDON ACE ran out a class and distance winner on September 24th when settling just behind the pace and running on strongly. She comes up 2.5kg in the weights but has every chance of striking again. (6) RAON THE COBRA was a strong winner over this distance in May, making all and has subsequently run 5th in both starts at this level. He should be on pace here and shapes as a potential danger. (7) GEUMJEONSA settled midfield and then ran on to score a tight win on debut over 1000M on September 22nd. He comes up in class and in distance here but should have benefited from that run and with some natural improvement can be competitive. (1) MEOTJIN GIROK and (5) HIGH PARK among others in the placing hunt.

Selections(9) London Ace (6) Raon The Cobra (7) Geumjeonsa (1) Meotjin Girok
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 10

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but one racing for the first time. We’ll not dismiss the experience though, because (12) SHINE FOREST ran well on debut over 1000M on September 15th racing midfield and running on for 3rd in a quick time. With that in the tank, she may just be a bit further down the line than the rest of these and she goes on top. The pick of the first timers is (5) SAENAE HIT. She looked assured in her trial, running through the line well in a fair time, and the 1200M can suit first up. (11) ROADTOMOMENTUM beat a couple of these in her heat when crossing the line 4th in a decent time and with some natural improvement can be in the finish here. (4) FLEX DAY and (1) MOTHER WONDERFUL others who caught the eye in qualification. 

Selections(12) Shine Forest (5) Saenae Hit (11) Roadtomementum (4) Flex Day
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 11, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

After twelve tries and plenty of near misses, it’s about time that (5) DAEHEUNG CLASS got his maiden win. He has placed in each of his last seven races, the five most recent being at this class. Moon Se-young climbs on for the first time and it should finally be his day. Should he mange to find one too quick yet again, then it might be (11) GLADIUS. A good winner on debut over 1000M, she ran a very close 2nd on her fist try at this class over 1200M on September 17th. She draws a touch wide, but she should have plenty of scope for more development and she can be a big danger here. (2) STAND BY ME got his sole win at this distance and enter off a fair 4th over 1400M last time out. He races for the first time since July so comes in fresh and in with a shout. (10) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG and (1) DORIPO others to keep safe.

Selections(5) Daeheung Class (11) Gladius (2) Stand By Me (10) Challanhan Pokpung
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(3) GANGSEO BULPAE will be hot favourite in this maiden. She ran a close 2nd on debut in June having led for most of the way before being an on-pace 3rd on her return three months later in September. Both were at 1200M and both times she was the beaten favourite, but she should strip fitter for the shorter layoff this time and she can win here. (4) YONGBI STAR is the main danger. She enters off a strong 3rd place finish over 1300M when she was ridden much further forward than her previous starts. Expect her to drop in handy here and challenge late. (9) HI LEGEND ran a fair 5th on debut over 1000M earlier this month having taken an age to get into top gear. The extended trip should suit, and he can get closer this time. (8) DOCTOR LICA and (6) GREAT BOY looks to be the other placing chances.

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

Fillies and mares will take centre-stage this weekend as the Queens’ Tour resumes with the Gyeongnam Governor’s Cup at Busan on Sunday. The south-coast track kicks off the action on Friday with a 9-race card from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong will be in action on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (6) HWANGGEUMSEONG has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M, racing close to the pace both times. He draws well to be on the speed again and he can make it third time lucky. (3) STRIKE ZONE has a 4th and a 3rd from his two previous outings. The 3rd came over this trip on September 22nd when he settled back and finished off very well. He comes into a much better gate today and he can win. (7) BLACK FALCON went through a couple of trials and then ran fairly for a midfield finish on debut. He can improve here. (11) LIGHT BROWN was slowly away and well back on debut but much improved on her second start on September 10th when 3rd over this distance and racing on pace. She isn’t done any favours by the draw here, but she can be competitive. Among the first timers, (10) BEAT DRAGON looks the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(6) Hwanggeumseong (3) Strike Zone (7) Black Falcon (11) Light Brown
Next Best10, 12
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Two standouts here. (6) SEVEN DRAGON has been sent off at long odds-on in both start so far and has come up short in 3rd over 1000M on debut and then 4th over this distance on September 8th when he led for much of the way around. His times have been good, he should be on pace again and he can get it right at the third time of asking. (8) WONDERFUL CHEROKEE was sent off at big odds, on debut on September 22nd but ran a strong 2nd over this distance having been on pace throughout. He should have derived benefit from the experience, and he has every chance here.  (10) TRICKSTER did nothing on debut all the way back in March but trialled up nicely earlier this month and can be a different prospect this time around. (9) ANOTHER ONE and (2) CHEOGANG WEEK other minor money chances.

Selections(6) Seven Dragon (8) Wonderful Cherokee (10) Trickster (9) Another One
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

A very modest maiden. (8) SINCHEON FIRST has a pair of 4th places among three starts so far, most recently at this distance on September 22nd when handy throughout. He can be ridden similarly here and has as much chance as any. (1) HAPPY BRIANNA enters off her best finish to date when 2nd in an all-filly race on October 6th. She settled right back that day before running on and while she was well beaten by a good winner, a similar run will see her firmly in the mix here. (5) UNJU TWO HEARTS showed solid improvement when 2nd at start number two back in August. She comes in here fresh after eleven weeks off and should be on pace. (11) NONSTOP DUTY and (4) WIDAEHAN SEONTAEK are the other placing contenders.

Selections(8) Sincheon First (1) Happy Brianna (5) Unju Two Hearts (11) Nonstop Duty
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start5, 8, 10, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(1) SINHAN GAMBLE will be a warm favourite here. That’s based on his last start 2nd on October 8th when, as has been his style, he went right back but then ran on strongly and was only narrowly denied the win. Three of today’s rivals were behind him and he should be beating all of them here. (2) RUN TO KING enters off a fair 4th place at this distance on September 24th. He comes into a better gate today and can aim to better that finish. (4) QUEEN OF JOY returned from five months out to run 5th of twelve over 1300M on September 22nd. She should strip fitter for that run and the step up in trip can suit. (10) ANY SINGS and (7) ROCKS are among others who can be in the hunt for the minor money.  

Selections(1) Sinhan Gamble (2) Run To King (4) Queen Of Joy (10) Any Sings
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) STAR DAERO was a winner on debut over 1000M on September 1st when settling handy and running on very well. He comes up in class and significantly in trip, but neither should be an issue and he can win again. (6) BEST CHAMP got his maiden win over this distance on September 15th, settling midfield before being ridden up to the pace and then running on. He is up in class here, but the extended trip can suit, and he can measure up. (9) HWANG YO remains a maiden but has never finished outside of the top-three. That includes his latest on October 6th when on pace and 2nd over 1200M at this class. He remains lightly weighted and should be there or thereabouts again. (8) RISE THE THRONE was an emphatic maiden winner last time out and comes up in class with the potential to measure up. (10) FABULOUS BEATER is the other logical placing chance.

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

It’s a rare Stakes race free Sunday but there is still plenty of action at Seoul with 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00, and Busan with 6 from 11:50 to 16.35. Here are the previews:

Yongam Boss – one of several contenders in an interesting class 1 finale at Seoul on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Imported juveniles (and one southern hemisphere three-year-old) here. The most experienced, with three starts to her name already, is (3) UWARYUNG. She hasn’t finished outside the top four and has run consistently good times. From a good draw, in this company she should be on or close to the speed and she can make the breakthrough here. (10) OHRA KHAN beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place over 1200M on debut when starting slowly but running on well. He should have derived benefit from that experience and can match or better today. (1) WHIZ RUNNER was 6th in that race on what was his debut too. He rana fast time at this distance in his trial and can improve today. There are four first-time starters and of them, (9) VELOX BOY and (6) TRAUM QUEEN look the most likely to make an immediate impact.

Selections(3) Uwaryung (10) Ohra Khan (1) Whiz Runner (9) Velox Boy
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens with all tackling the 1300M for the first time. (1) YEONGWON GIANT was a much-improved 2nd at start number three on September 16th over 1200M when he raced further forward than he had done previously and finished off well. He beat several of today’s rivals in the proves and from a great draw, he can go one better today. (4) LUCKY PARTY was 4th in that race having been sent off as favourite following a strong 3rd place on debut. He’ll be on pace again here and can be given another chance. (9) PURGE KING came home in 3rd place on September 16th. That continued the steady progress that he has made since his debut, and he is another who should be in with a shout. As for those who didn’t go in the September 16th race, (6) SEOUL CHOEGANGJA looks the best. He comes in off a solid 3rd place in a good time at 1200M a month ago and Moon Se-young climbing on will tempt plenty. Newcomer (3) NAEGILUIKING another to keep an eye on.

Selections(1) Yeongwon Giant (4) Lucky Party (9) Purge King (6) Seoul Choegangja
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More juvenile maidens. (2) EUNPA SARANG has a 3rd and two 5th place finishes from three starts to date and has posted a couple of very good times. He has got a bit far back in his races so far but he finishes off very well and if he is in striking distance at the top of the straight, he could be the one to beat. He will need to get past (4) CHEONHAENGCHAT. She has a 2nd and a 3rd on her record, both times racing on pace. She draws well to get forward here and should be in this a very long way. There are a couple of first-time starters and (6) RUBY PORT looked good in her trial, leading almost the entire way around and crossing the line a close 2nd. She can go well first up. (9) OSONGEUI BYEOL and (7) DONGJIN TEUKGEUP are potential improvers.

Selections(2) Eunpa Sarang (4) Cheonhaengchat (6) Ruby Port (9) Osongeui Byeol
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Juvenile maidens and (4) FLYING KHAN will begin as hot favourite. After a good trial, he overcame gate ten on debut to run 3rd over this distance in a quick time. He comes into a much better gate today and should get an easier run to the front. He will take some beating. (1) AUTUMN BREEZE was an improved 3rd at 1300M on September 17th, racing handy throughout. From the inside gate, she should be close to the pace here and can be competitive again. (2) ARA NURI made good progress on her second start, finishing 3rd over this distance in a good time. She can settle just behind the leaders here and finish strongly. (11) DOCTOR CAPTAIN looks to be on the right trajectory too and along with first time starter (7) HARVEST MOON, is another to consider for the places.

Selections(4) Flying Khan (1) Autumn Breeze (2) Ara Nuri (11) Doctor Captain
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) GOLDEN DRAGON remains a maiden after three starts but comes up in class here having secured back-to-back runner-up finishes over 1200M, both in quick times. He comes down 2kg in the weights, and from a good draw, he can make the breakthrough here. (1) MUNHAK CENTRAL got her maiden win at the seventh time of asking over 1200M on September 16th when she made all. She too comes up in class and while she only gets a 1kg weight drop, she draws well and can measure up in this company. (7) MY CENTER has placed at this class and distance and also ran a fair 6th in the Rookie Stakes at the end of August. He has consistently run good times and he should be in the mix again here. (5) DAONDI was very close 2nd to Munhak Central last time and accordingly joins her up in class with every chance of being competitive. (10) BEST CLONE another in the hunt.

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

The weekend’s racing kicks off at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 4 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Nine imported juveniles with seven of them racing for the first time. Amng the experienced pair is (7) DESPITE WIN, who is already a winner having scored on debut over 1200M on September 22nd when he settled back and ran on well. He previously trialled up well over this distance and the race experience means he gets the nod. (4) VICE ROYAL qualified in decent order in August but then went through another voluntary trial on September 9th, practically making all and crossing the line 1st in a quick time. If he brings that form to the races, he will be a big danger. (1) TROUBLE MARINE similarly improved in a second trial, settling back and running on. She may want further but that could be true of the top pick as well and she can put in a bold showing first up. (9) BREEDO PRINCE and (5) CHONGAL among plenty of others who hinted at ability.

Selections(7) Despite Win (4) Vice Royal (1) Trouble Marine (9) Breedo Prince
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Locally bred juvenile maidens with all but one racing for the first time. The experienced one is (3) POWERFUL DASH and he’s raced twice, both at 1000M, improving significantly to 4th in the second of them settling handy and running on. The step up in trip can suit and the racing experience may be key. (10) JEONSEOLUISUNGAN didn’t qualify at the first attempt but looked much better second time around, running on strongly for 2nd in a fast time and beating a couple of the others who go here. He looks the pick of the first timers. (11) SKY YEONGUNG also went through two trials, in his case voluntarily. He too improved in the second of them registering a good time and hinting at ability.  (8) SAMAKUI KKOT and (9) MORPHEUS other newcomers with potential.

Selections(3) Powerful Dash (10) Jeonseoluisungan (11) Sky Yeongung (8) Samakui Kkot
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens, this time with ten of the twelve racing for the first time. (6) BREEDO WIZARD only trialled up last Saturday, but he looked good running a quick 2nd. He was a long way back behind a proven winner (Geuma Deft) and while he comes to the races very quickly, if he can run like that again, he has a fair chance. (4) BURUI TONGCHI was an ion -ace 3rd in his heat in September. He draws nicely to lead first-up and he should be in this a long way. (12) FLYING RACER actually won her trial, settling midfield and running on. The time wasn’t quick, and she has the challenge of the widest gate, but she clearly knows what her job is. (8) HWANHUIUI MOON beat a couple of these on his way to a good 2nd in a fair time in her trial and should be in the mix. Of the pair with prior experience, (10) WONDERFUL KAYLAN looks to have the most potential to improve.

Selections(6) Breedo Wizard (4) Burui Tongchi (12) Flying Racer (8) Hwanhuiui Moon
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies. (6) BEST LEADER was a significant improver at start number three over this distance on September 24th when she led for much of the way around, ultimately getting taken down late and finishing 2nd. She draws well enough here to lead again and will be in this a long way. (4) DIA GRIT has only raced twice so far and did show improvement in the second of the She has the fastest time among these for the distance and with more improvement can be a danger. (9) DAY BY DAY has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest couple. She comes in off a fair 4th over 1300M a month ago and should be aiming to better that here. (1) VICTOR PARTY was monumentally slow in two starts this summer but has since been back to trial where she posted a surprisingly super time when 2nd. If she brings that form, instead of her prior form, to the races, then she can be in the mix. (11) THUNDER GONGJU another with the potential to improve.

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