Busan

Rookie Stakes Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-by-Race Preview (August 27)

This year’s juveniles get their first opportunities to run for serious prizes on Sunday as both Seoul and Busan hold their “Rookie Stakes” races, the lead in to the Juvenile Series this autumn. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:40 to 17:00. Triple Tiara winner Jeulgeounyeojeong will also be in action in Busan’s Class 1 finale. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with three of the ten racing for the first time. There’s no clear favourite so we’ll go with (4) GREAT STORM at what could be a decent price. He overcame gate eleven to run a decent 4th on debut over 1000M on July 23rd, when settling just behind the speed and running on. The time wasn’t especially quick but the step up in trip can suit and he has as good a chance as any. (5) HWASANGWIHWAN won a May trail and then following an indifferent debut was an improved 5th of eleven over this distance on July 16th racing on pace. He looks nicely in here and should be a danger. (1) EUNPA SARANG was a fair 5th in debut in July and should have come on for the run. (7) YEOWANG SOCKS and first-time starter (2) WONDERFUL JET others in the frame.

Selections(4) Great Storm (5) Hwasangwihwan (1) Eunpa Sarang (7) Yeowang Socks
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 9

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

The stable has zero wins from 135 starters so far in 2023 but that really should change here with (4) NAOL SIDAE. He comes in off a much-improved 2nd place at start number two on June 10th when settling midfield and running on in a good time. He draws nicely and today should be his day. Should the unthinkable happen and the losing streak continue, it’s most likely to be at the hands of (2) JANGHEUNG CLASS. He enters having run 4th on July 22nd despite losing a lot of ground around the turn when resenting kickback and racing ungenerously. He’s been back to trial since then and with a more mature performance here, he can be a danger. (5) TESTA BLUE was a touch disappointing last time out but based on his 2nd place over this distance in early July is worth another chance here. Debut-maker (8) TOJONG GLORY along with (7) NEW POINT are other possibles for minor money.

Selections(4) Naol Sidae (2) Jangheung Class (5) Testa Blue (8) Tojong Glory
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener on the South Coast with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (4) HIT SOCKS debuted on July 30th over 1000M and beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to a strong 2nd in a quick time coming from off the pace. The way he finished off suggests that the additional furlong can only be in his favour, and he can win this. (3) OVER ENERGY debuted in the same race overcoming a wide draw to run on for 3rd, just half a length behind Hit Socks. He too should have come on for the run and can go close again. (11) GLOBAL TAEYANG was a quick 2nd over 1000M on her debut on July 21st. She showed a really good turn of foot late on and she is another who the extra trip should suit. (5) GEUMA PRECEDE and (9) ROAD STAR, who debuted together on July 23rd, are among others to consider.

Selections(4) Hit Socks (3) Over Energy (11) Global Taeyang (5) Geuma Precede
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 9

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

This is a competitive maiden. (7) SMART SOCKS just about gets the verdict having steadily gotten closer in her latest few culminating in 2nd place at this distance in a good time on August 5th when leading for most of the way around and she can go one better today. (10) BEAT RACER has been similarly knocking on the door in recent efforts which include a runner-up finish two starts back at this distance. Moon Se-young is engaged again, and the pair are sure to have plenty of backers. (12) NAOL JEONGSANG debuted on Christmas Day last year, running a decent 4th but then wasn’t seen again until a month ago. He should strip fitter for that comeback run and can be a factor here. (3) FLYING ZEST and (9) SMART CLAIR look to be the logical other placing hopes.

Selections(7) Smart Socks (10) Beat Racer (12) Naol Jeongsang (3) Flying Zest
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 11

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

Competitive race with two standouts.  Humbly named (7) THE BEST EVER enters off a smart runner-up finish at what was his fourth career start on July 30th when racing handy throughout. He is one of only two in the race to have tackled this distance before and he can use that experience to his advantage here. (2) CORNER ONE shapes as the danger. He’s finished 5th in both starts so far at 1000M and 1200M. He has finished off his races very smartly and the additional furlong should be exactly what he needs to get closer. (9) HOTFLEX raced twice last autumn without distinction but returned in July following nine months off and ran a good 2nd over 1200M. He should have derived benefit from that run and can be competitive here. (11) GRAY BOSS and (3) ANOTHER ONE are other ones to keep safe.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 25)

It’s back to daytime schedules from this week. Racing gets underway on Friday at Busan with 7 races from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Twelve unraced juveniles. (9) LAST DRAGON will be favourite having run 2nd in a trial in a quick time. He was on pace throughout and will be expected to lead and go all the way here. (8) DIA GRIT went through two trials, just scraping through the first in May but winning the second on July 22nd when she settled just behind the early leaders and ran on pleasingly. Like the other fillies, she gets a nice weight allowance here and can go well first-up. (2) STRIDING MAN wen through three trials and by the third of them in July, looked to be getting the hang of things, sitting handy and running on for 4th in a good time. From a nice draw he can do similar here. (7) STRIKE ZONE beat a couple of today’s rivals when winning a trial on July 15th. The time wasn’t quick, but he showed enough to suggest he has some ability. (4) HANEULPYEONGJEONG another who did well in trials.   

Selections(9) Last Dragon (8) Dia Grit (2) Striding Man (7) Strike Zone
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

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

(2) AJANTA came from off the pace to run 5th in a decent time over 1000M on debut on July 21st. She should have come on for that run, the additional furlong can suit, and she has winning claims here. The main danger is (1) KING FIGHTER. He’s raced twice before, improving in the second of them on July 30th when leading for much of the way around over today’s trip and ultimately coming home a close 4th. From a good draw, he should be on pace again and once more in it a long way. (7) AMBITIOUS GIRL debuted in the same race as Ajanta, coming home in 5th place, just half a length behind the selection. She too should have derived benefit from the experience and can make more progress. Debut-maker (10) DOCTOR LICA trialled up well and along with (8) DREAM WAY is another to consider.

Selections(2) Ajanta (1) King Fighter (7) Ambitious Girl (10) Doctor Lica
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(2) DREAM RUN will be a warm favourite. Her recent form has been consistent, and he has shown aptitude for a mile with a 2nd and a 3rd in her latest two, most recently on July 30th when close to the pace throughout and beating a few of today’s rivals. A similar run here should see her win. (4) WITH STAR also beat a few of these when 3rd over 1400M on July 30th. That continued a pattern of improvement and while she was beaten by Dream Run two starts back, she should go close. (12) DOCTOR WICKY has mixed his form so far but the step up in trip can suit. Despite the wide draw he can be expected to be on the pace, and he may make for some interest at an each-way price. (11) RUN TO KING and (7) STORMY DAY are among others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Dream Run (4) With Star (12) Doctor Wicky (11) Run To King
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 10, 12

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

(11) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT is yet to score in sixteen attempts but has no fewer than six top-three finishes. He comes in off a 3rd and a 4th in his latest two, both at this distance and both in decent times. He has a strong finish so the wide draw shouldn’t be too much of a problem, and today can be his day. (1) MOTHER MOUNTAIN has won before at class 6 level, and she looks to be working back towards another win. She comes in off a smart 2nd place at class and distance on July 29th when she overcame the widest gate to sit behind the speed. She comes into a much better gate here and under a light weight, she can win. (6) BLUE CAPTAIN enters with recent form reading very pleasingly, with two 3rds and a 4th from his latest three. He can sit behind the speed here and should be involved at the business end. (4) TWO TWO LIME and (9) ILGANG DAERO among others to consider.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 20)

There are Sunday daytime cards at Seoul (10 races from 11:35 to 19:00) and Busan (7 races from 12:40 to 18:00). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener although all but one has raced at least once before. (11) THE PLAYER has a 3rd and a 2nd from two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M both times leading almost until the end. He draws a touch wider than ideal but should have enough about him early to get to the front, and it can be third time lucky here. It’s clear what type of distance the Raon group believe (2) RAON THE SPRINTER will excel at. Indeed, he showed plenty of speed on debut when 3rd over 1000M. He should have come on for that run and from a good gate can challenge for the lead and be in this a long way. (4) JANGGUN GARAM has raced twice, improving at start number two when 2nd over 1000M. He ran through the line well both times and the slight step up in trip can suit. (10) SMART CAT and (8) WONDERFUL PAGO among other sin the hunt.

Selections(11) The Player (2) Raon The Sprinter (4) Janggun Garam (10) Smart Cat
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 11

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

(1) STEALTH PARK may have run ordinarily on two of three occasions but sandwiched in the middle was a very solid 3rd place at this distance when he settled back and then ran on in a time quicker than any of the others here have achieved. He draws well, Moon Se-young stays up, and he could win this modest affair. (4) BULGEUN POKPUNG enters off a strong 2nd place at this distance when running on strongly. That was back in May so he has had almost three months off since, and coming in fresh, he can be a danger. (5) NAEGILUI CAPTAIN has, like Stealth Park, mixed his form so far with a 2nd and a 6th, both over 1200M. He can be expected to be on pace here and should go close. (9) HAENGBOK YEOWANG and (6) VET CAPTAIN other potential improvers.

Selections(1) Stealth Park (4) Bulgeun Pokpung (5) Naegilui Captain (9) Haengbok Yeowang
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

Maiden fillies here. (6) WORLD FIRST CAT beat a couple of these with a front-running showing on debut on July 21st that ultimately ended in 3rd place. Like all here, she should have come on for that first experience and could well lead all the way here. (1) DAMOA debuted on June 23rd over 1000M, settling behind the speed before running on well for 4th. From the inside gate she can drop in behind the lead again and they extended trip can suit with Franco climbing aboard only to her benefit too. (9) WHITE FALCON has races twice already with a 3rd and a 4th to her name, the latter behind World First Cat. She has been doing her best work late so the step up in distance may well be to her benefit. (8) POCKET MILLION and (5) QUEEN AND SERVE others with the potential to improve.

Selections(6) World First Cat (1) Damoa (9) White Falcon (8) Pocket Million
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

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

(11) ZETTA MASTER is the pick here. He comes in having run 2nd over this distance on July 23rd when getting forward to sit handy from a wide gate, He draws a touch wider than ideal again but should have enough about him to get a forward position and third-up this preparation, he may be peaking fitness wise. (5) SAVANA CHARLIE is the maiden danger. He came home in 3rd place in that July 23rd race having settled back and run on well. Although yet to break the top-two, he has finished between 3rd and 5th on no fewer than eight occasions and he should be aiming to crack the quinella here. (7) ONE SPEAR has been slow away in his latest couple, but he does have a runner-up finish to his name as recently as July 1st and that’s enough to p him in the placing mix in this company. (1) SAEROUN BITKKAL and (10) GREEN BULPAE others in the minor money hunt. 

Selections(11) Zetta Master (5) Savana Charlie (7) One Spear (1) Saeroun Bitkkal
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2, 8, 9, 11

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

(10) YONG GUN gets the nod here. He enters off a career-to-date best of 2nd over 1300M on July 29th when racing on pace throughout. He comes up to 1400M for the first time but there is no reason why it can’t suit, and he should be able to find a forward position again. (8) SUCCESS FLYING has raced just once, all the way back in January. He re-appeared, freshly gelded, in July and won a trial in a quick time, practically making all. He can be considered first-up here. (1) SHINE MONSTER enters off a runner-up finish over this distance on July 14th when coming from off the pace. She was well-beaten by a good winner, but a similar performance will see her in the money here. (11) TOO CUTE GIRL and (2) LUCKY BAND among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(10) Yong Gun (8) Success Flying (1) Shine Monster (11) Too Cute Girl
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start4, 8, 10, 11

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

(3) PURPLE WORLD comes up in class having followed up a 2nd place on debut with a win over 1200M on July 1st when he made all and won by as many as he pleased. He also comes up in distance slightly, but the manner of that victory suggests there is more to come, and he can win again here. (5) GANGPUNGMA is similarly up in class following a maiden win at start number two over 1200M on July 22nd when coming from off the pace. The margin of victory was slightly less eye-catching than that of Purple World, but he did what he needed to do well enough, and he can measure up here. (1) CHEONGGYE GISANG finally draws a good gate for the first time in a long time. That should allow him to get a much easier run to the front than in recent starts and he can improve. (2) LADY TAEPUNG and (7) HAENGBOKAN MUNMAK among others to consider.

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

It’s the final weekend of twilight/evening racing and the action gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 7-race program from 15:40 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but two racing for the first time. We’ll side with the experience, in particular, (1) DOCTOR RICH. He led for much of the way around on debut over 1000M on July 7th, ultimately coming home in 2nd place in a quick time. He should have come on for that run, he can be on pace again, and this time can go all the way. (4) CONTROLLER ran a solid 3rd on his debut on July 14th, settling handy and running on over the 1000M in a good time. He too should improve and the step up in trip can suit. As for the first timers, (10) FLYING KHAN produced the pick of the trial performances, while (5) ARION KING and (2) SUCCESS BAEKPA also posted good times and can go well first-up.

Selections(1) Doctor Rich (4) Controller (10) Flying Khan (5) Arion King
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

Competitive maiden with two standouts. (7) DOCTOR KANE ran 2nd on debut over 1000M in June before following up with a 3rd place at this distance on July 14th when leading for much of the way and beating plenty of today’s rivals. She has been back to trial since then and with a more mature performance, she can be the one to beat today. The main danger is (1) BORIS MARINE. He too has raced twice, improving to a close runner-up finish at start number two on July 7th. He can settle back and run on here and should pose a danger in the closing stages. (3) JJARITHANISUNGAN debuted all the way back last December, racing fairly, but hasn’t been seen since. He came back to trial in June and showed some ability so can be given a chance first up here. (10) HAERANG YOUNGUNG and (2) MAGIC ELEVEN others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Doctor Kane (1) Boris Marine (3) Jjarithanisungan (10) Haerang Youngung
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

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

(4) BEOMHAN GOLD shapes as a warm favourite here. After debuting in February, he didn’t reappear until July 23rd when he was a very close 2nd over this distance, having led for much of the way. He should strip fitter for that run and from a good gate he can lead again and has every chance of making all. (2) VELOCIRAPTOR is yet to finish in the top-two in thirteen attempts, but she has had planet of near misses including a useful 5th last time over this distance. She tends to get a bit far back in her races, but she does finish strongly, and she can run into at least the placings here. (3) FLYING DIA races for the first time since a good 2nd over this distance in March when leading for much of the way. She looked well in a trial at the end of July and can be a danger first-up here. (5) LEMON BULPAE and (10) CHOICE ROAD others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(4) Beomhan Gold (2) Velociraptor (3) Flying Dia (5) Lemon Bulpae
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 3 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

(1) PISTOL STAR found himself a little overmatched when sent up to Seoul for a spin around in the Minister’s Cup, the final leg of the Triple Crown on July 22nd. At the start before though he was a good winner over this distance at class 4 level and under a light weight and from a good gate, he can return to winning ways here. (8) MAN OF THE MAN comes up in trip having run a good 2nd over a mile at this level on July 16th. Tactically versatile, he is lightly raced and should still have some improvement in him. (7) EUNSEONG WINNER was one of plenty here who raced one another at class and distance on July 7th. She ran 4th that day having got a long way back and can be expected to be a bit closer today. (2) ALL CROWN and (4) HWANGU FIHGTER others in the hunt.

Selections(1) Pistol Star (8) Man Of The Man (7) Eunseong Winner (2) All Crown
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 5

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

(7) SUCCESS MOCCA raced four times around the turn of the year and showed ability, winning over this distance at class 6 level. He returns to action here for the first time since March and looked very well when winning a July trial. He should be on pace here and can go all the way. Another one returning from an absence is (10) FAST FURY. She registered three consecutive 4th place finishes at this level up until April and she too looked very well when winning a trial in double quick time in late July. She races best on pace so may need a touch of early luck from a wide draw, but she has every chance of going close. (6) ACE A MOCA comes up in class following a smart win over this distance on July 30th. She comes down slightly in the weights and can measure up in this company. (8) TITAN K and (4) UNJU GLOBAL others in the frame.

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 13)

There are daytime cards at both Seoul (10 races from 11:35 to 19:00) and Busan (7 races from 12:40 to 18:00). Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. We’ll side with a debut maker, and it wasn’t so much the time but the way (5) SPEED ONE completed his heat that puts him on top. Coming out of gate nine he sat handy and then ran on under a hold getting better with every stride. If he can show that kind of maturity at the races and when asked for an effort, he can win. (6) KNIGHT CHARM was asked for more in his trial in dreadful conditions in July. He responded nicely and ran on to cross the line with plenty in hand. He too can be considered first-up. Experience can count for plenty though. (9) MIRAE TOWER came from off the pace to run on for 4th over this distance on July 15th. He should have come on for that and with a better start can get closer today. (1) NICE TAEYANG and (8) HAMPYEONG JANGMI the other pair who can improve on their respective debuts.

Selections(5) Speed One (6) Knight Charm (9) Mirae Tower (1) Nice Taeyang
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 11

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

(4) MOON DUST looks to be finally getting things together with a pair of 3rd place finishes from her latest two, both at this distance and both times racing on pace. She draws nicely to get an easy early run here and she will be the one the need to beat. It’s not a strong race and that means we can give the solitary newcomer, (6) DAERYUN BULPAE, a chance. He trialled up a few times as a juvenile but never came anywhere close to qualifying before being put away for several months. He came back into training in June and looked much more assured when running 3rd in a fair time in a July trial. Don’t rule out a bold showing first-up. (8) FINE DAY has a 3rd and a 4th among her five efforts so far and should be in the mix here. (7) JEONGSANG HIT and (10) BINNANEUN GEUMSEONG among others who can compete for the money in this modest contest.

Selections(4) Moon Dust (6) Daeryun Bulpae (8) Fine Day (7) Jeongsang Hit
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. (9) GEUMA DISTINCTION will be a warm favourite. The Kim Young-kwan trainee went through two trials, crossing the line 3rd in both, both in quick times. He can settle just off the pace here and if he brings the trial form to the races, he will be hard to beat. (5) SINCHEON FIRST won a June trial before racing on pace in debut on July 7th and ultimately running 4th in a good time over this distance. He should have benefited for the experience and can go closer here. Returning to the first-timers, (2) HWANGGEUMSEONG led every step of the way to win his trial in a good time on a wet track. He draws nicely, Seo Seung-un partners, and there is plenty to like about him. (1) CHRIS MORE and (7) LIGHT BROWN others who could put in a bold showing first-up.

Selections(9) Geuma Distinction (5) Sincheon First (2) Hwanggeumseong (1) Chris More
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 7

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

A weak but very tricky race to predict. We’ll take a chance on (2) GOLDEN SNIPER, who ran 2nd two starts back over this trip, settling handy and nearly getting there. He followed up with a 5th place on his latest appearance on July 9th when on pace throughout and from a good gate, today could be his day. (8) POWERFUL VISION ran an improved 5th at start number two over 1300M when on pace throughout. She can be expected to show at the front early again and should once more be in this a long way. (5) SHARP SUNSHINE has shown signs of figuring things out, finishing in the top four in each of her latest four appearances. Her times haven’t been quick, but she finishes off her races well and can grind out another decent placing here. (7) SINUI HAMSEONG and (4) BEST PLAN, others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(2) Golden Sniper (8) Powerful Vision (5) Sharp Sunshine (7) Sinui Hamseong
Next Best4, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

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

(9) WONDERFUL ONE has shown improvement across three starts so far, culminating in 3rd place over this distance on July 9th when handy throughout and beating a couple of today’s rivals. Without an apprentice claim today, he does come up 3kg in the weights, but that’s balanced by Franco climbing aboard, and he can win. (7) YONGSAN KEUNBYEOL was 4th in that July 9th race, continuing a positive start to his career. He has almost two-lengths to find on Wonderful One, but he gets a weight swing and should be challenging the favourite for the lead from the start. (1) WONDERFUL SMARTY is a thirty-six-race maiden but comes in following her first ever second-place finish over this distance on June 16th. She is another who doesn’t have an apprentice claim this time, but she has a good draw, and a repeat of that run will put her in the finish. (6) BLUE CAVIAR and (5) HANEUL BULPAE other placing chances.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 11)

Typhoon Khanun should be safely out of the way but wet tracks can be expected across the weekend. THe action gets underway at Busan on Friday with a twilight card of 7 races from 15:40 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens. Since scraping through a qualifying heat in early June, (1) SEVEN DRAGON has subsequent been through two voluntary trials and has been very good. This is important because those heats won’t necessarily appear in all race cards. He made all to stop the clock in 61.9 seconds on June 24th, well clear of Controller, who went on to run 3rd on his own debut, and then overcame gate eleven to run 2nd in another trail on July 28th in a time of 60.9 seconds. From the Kim Young-kwon stable, he will be favourite to win first-up here. Only one of them has raced before. That’s (8) HWANG YO who was an on-pace 3rd over this distance in a similar race on July 7th. Experience can count for plenty in these types of contests, and he shapes as the main danger. (2) YEONGGWANGUI GLORY and (7) BEST CHAMP trialled up together finish g4th and 5th in fair times and both can be considered for a money finish first-up.  (5) SPRIT FIGHTER another who caught the eye.

Selections(1) Seven Dragon (8) Hwang Yo (2) Yeonggwangui Glory (7) Best Champ
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

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

(3) MASTER YODA perhaps wasn’t ready in his first couple of starts but after a three-months off, he came back in March and has looked much improved with a 2nd and a 3rd in two starts back at 1200M and 1400M, racing on pace both times. He draws nicely here and comes back in trip, Seo Seung-un climbs on and third-up this preparation, he can be peaking fitness wise. (8) UNJU TWO HEARTS might be worth a spin at an each-way price. She raced on pace on debut on July 9th before capitulating in the final furlong. She showed speed though and can be on the pace again here and with a bit more maturity, could be in this for longer. (6) CHEONSU SIDAE has hinted at ability across four outings with her best of 4th coming at this distance last time out. She can settle back and run into some money here. (4) DAY BY DAY and (1) CHEERFUL LIFE other possibles for the places.

Selections(3) Master Yoda (8) Unju Two Hearts (6) Cheonsu Sidae (4) Day By Day
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 11

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

(8) DOCTOR WICKY was an improved 2nd at this distance on July 16th, leading for much of the way around and comfortably defeating a couple of today’s rivals. He should be on pace again today and he should have too much. (5) BOB AND JOY finished 3rd in that July 16th race having been handy throughout. It was an improvement from his debut and while he has six lengths to make up on Doctor Wicky, with some more progress he can get closer today. (4) GANGSEO JEORYEONG ran 4th in that race. It was a big uptick on his previous efforts, but he is nicely drawn to sit just behind the speed, and he can continue his positive momentum here. (10) RICH COWBOY and (2) CHOEGANG CHONGAL both have 2nd places on their records already and are others who can enter the calculations. 

Selections(8) Doctor Wicky (5) Bob And Joy (4) Gangseo Jeoryeong (10) Rich Cowboy
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

Two standouts here. (2) THE ONE has shown signs in his latest two of figuring things out with a 3rd and a 4th, both at 1200M and both times settling back and running on. He draws well here, the slight step up in trip can suit, and he can win. The big danger is (10) ACHIMUI HUIMANG. Following an ordinary trial, she wasn’t especially well fancied on debut on July 9th, but she ran well overcoming a similarly wide gate to today to finish 4th in a decent time on a wet track over this distance. She was a long way behind an emphatic winner, but she should have derived benefit from the run, and she has a chance. (3) FIRST MENI has been knocking on the door of the places across her five starts so far. In this company she should be on pace and aiming for a career best to date finish. (1) CHOEGANG WEEK and (5) MIRACULUM others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) The One (10) Achimui Huimang (3) First Meni (1) Choegang Week
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

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

(11) MA GUN won back-to-back races in March and April to get rapidly promoted to this class before running a creditable 4th when stepped up to this level and to this distance for the first time on July 9th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. That experience should be beneficial for him, and while he does have the challenge of the outside gate, he can win here. (6) WIND WINNER enters with recent form reading well and he has the fastest time of any of these for the distance. With Franco aboard, he can sit on or close to the speed and should be going close. (2) ARCTURUS has plenty of a ability and he signalled a return to form with a 2nd place at class and distance on July 16th running on pace and beating Wind Winner, among others. He draws well here and shouldn’t be dismissed. (10) GREAT ONE and (3) DAEHO NURI others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Ma Gun (6) Wind Winner (2) Arcturus (10) Great One
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

A very tricky one. (11) WAITING FOR YOU stepped up to this trip for the first time on July 14th and used up plenty of effort to get forward from the widest gate before running a close 3rd. She looks to have more development in her and while she draws wide for the third consecutive time, today could be her day. She has half a length to make up on (7) NAMYANG BOLT, who was 2nd in that July 14th race, having settled midfield and run on. He has won at this distance at class 6 level and warrants respect here. (8) LADY VADER got her maiden win at start number two in early June before running 5th on her first try at this class on July 7th when on pace over 1200M. She steps up to this trip for the first time and is likely to be on the speed and in this a long way. (3) BABEL HEART enters having won at this class over 1300M a month ago and while up slightly in weight, a repeat isn’t impossible. (2) FIRST PARK among plenty of others in the money hunt.

Selections(11) Waiting For You (7) Namyang Bolt (8) Lady Vader (3) Babel Heart
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

A difficult finale. (6) GOLDEN WAVE had a disappointing day at the office when well supported at class and distance on July 7th, racing handy but weakening. She has previously run very well at this distance though and with Franco up today, she can be given another chance. That will mean overturning the July 7th form on a couple of these including (11) SOUTHERN SUPERONE. The only juvenile in this field, he debuted in that race having won a June trial. Just like today he had to overcome the widest gate, but he acquitted himself well, settling back and then running on for a creditable 5th. He should benefit from the experience and can get closer here. (4) ROCKET SORI comes back in trip following a good 3rd place over a mile on July 14th. He has run well at this distance too and can be a danger. (8) BREAD HIT and (1) BLUE CARSON among plenty of others with placing hopes.

Selections(6) Golden Wave (11) Southern Superone (4) Rocket Sori (8) Bread Hit
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 30)

Busan flies solo for the last day of racing in July. There are 15 races from 11:35 to 19:00:

Double Classic winner Captain Yankee will be in action at Busan on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all eleven racing for the very first time so we must head for the trial videos. They won’t detain us for very long because (4) FANTASTIC FIELD was by far the star performer, leading all the way in his heat to cross the line as many lengths to the good as he pleased in a quick time. He will be a short-price favourite and if he brings anything like that form to the races, he will win. (9) HIT SOCKS finished off his trial very nicely, making up excellent ground late on. It wasn’t a quick heat, but he showed plenty of promise. (11) OVER ENERGY trialled on a very wet track and ran on well under only a small amount of encouragement and looks to have promise. (7) BURUI JEWANG was sked to do a little more in his heat but ran well, leading for much of the way. He should be on pace here and can be competitive. (8) PURE DANCE went quite wide in his trial but ran on pleasingly at the business end and is another who can make an immediate impact.

Selections(4) Fantastic Field (9) Hit Socks (11) Over Energy (7) Burui Jewang
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 10

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

(9) KALJABI has raced three times so far, finishing in the top four on each occasion. While he has drawn a touch wide here, with a bit of luck at the start, he can get on pace, and he will take some beating. (3) ACE A MOCA has a 3rd place to her name at this distance and she is set to be one of the main dangers. She had to contend with gate eleven last time out but should have an easier run of it today. (8) CORNER ONE debuted over 1000M on July 7th, settling right back and running on strongly with a very quick final furlong before running out of track. The additional distance today can suit. (1) CONCORD PARK and (7) GLORY CROWN others to consider. A final note, the solitary debut maker (2) SINGAPORE PARTY doesn’t make it into the top line of numbers, but she went through a second voluntary trial after qualifying and posted a much better performance and time (1:03.5) from a wide gate. This may not appear in all race cards.

Selections(9) Kaljabi (3) Ace A Moca (8) Corner One (1) Concord Park
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 10

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

(1) DOCTOR BROWN is one for one having scored in debut in a quick race over 1000M on July 7th when he settled just behind the leaders early before proving too strong. He comes up in both class and in distance here, but neither should be a problem and from a great draw, he can be on pace and can maintain his 100% record. (9) HELLO SUNSHINE looks the standout second pick. He made all to win over this distance in April before coming close to repeating the trick on his first try at this class over 1300M in May only to be caught late on. He has had ten weeks off since then so comes in fresh and back slightly in trip, he warrants consideration. Back in trip may also be the key for (6) ABERLOUR. He finished midfield on his latest at 1400M but the start before when 3rd at this class and distance suggests he can be competitive here (8) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT and (4) E-CASH among plenty of others with placing chances.

Selections(1) Doctor Brown (9) Hello Sunshine (6) Aberlour (8) Goldenthunderbolt
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Tricky race. (5) NICE DAY defied odds of nearly 50/1 to win at class and distance on June 9th, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. That was his first try at this class but his form going in had been good and the win perhaps wasn’t as much a surprise as the odds suggest. He draws a better gate here and the engagement of an apprentice jockey means he carries even less weight. A repeat isn’t impossible. (7) HANGANG SAVER was a class and distance winner in a super quick time in March before having a hard time in a valuable trophy race in May. He bounced back with a 4th place on June 18th, and he should be on pace and in the mix here. (1) HANEUL JEWANG was 3rd behind Nice Day in that June 9th race and has since run 3rd over 1400M. He carries a light weight and should be close. The wildcard is (9) SPECIAL ROAD, who has four top-three finishes from five starts. She comes up in class from her last race in March, but she looked very well when winning a trial just last weekend. If she didn’t leave her race there, she has a chance. (8) BLUE CARSON is another to keep safe.

Selections(5) Nice Day (7) Hangang Saver (1) Haneul Jewang (9) Special Road
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million

(5) CAPTAIN COMMANDO has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over 1200M on June 30th. He was well beaten by a good winner but that was his first race back since January and he should strip fitter for the run. He can settle behind the early pace, and he can potentially go one better here. (7) CAPTIN DIA may be due an edit of the spelling of his name, but he showed potential on debut on June 23rd when settling back but running on strongly for 2nd place over 1000M. The additional furlong and a half should suit him and with some natural improvement, he can be a danger. Keeping with the “Captain” theme, (8) BRAVE CAPTAIN comes in off a solid 3rd place over 1200M last time out on July 2nd, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. In this company he should be on pace and can be in this a long way. (3) PIMI and (10) RICH COWBOY both come in off places at this distance and are among plenty of others who can aim for at least the minors.

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Busan Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 29)

With Seoul taking its summer weekend off, there is a rare Saturday card at Busan. It’s a twilight schedule with 8 races from 15:00 to 21:00:

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

Maidens in the opener with all but two having raced at least once before. (6) DREAM WAY was sent off as favourite on debut over 1000M on June 23rd and rana fair 3rd after starting slowly and settling back before running on. He should have benefited from that experience, the additional furlong can suit, and he looks to be the one to beat here. (2) CHARON TODAY ran once last October without distinction and hasn’t raced since. She looked very well when making all in a trial two weeks ago, stopping the clock in a quick time, and that will be enough to give her plenty of backers first-up here. (3) YONGBI STAR ran fairly for 5th on debut having raced right at the back most of the way around. The experience and the step up in trip should be beneficial. (9) GRAY BOSS and (5) TODAY QUEEN others to consider for improvement. 

Selections(6) Dream Way (2) Charon Today (3) Yongbi Star (9) Gray Boss
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

(3) TAURUS KING didn’t do much in two initial starts across the turn of the year, but he returned after four months off in June, gelded and looking much more like a racehorse. He has finished 2nd and 3rd in his two starts back, both at 1200M and third-up this preparation, he can be peaking and can win. (11) ILGANG DAERO put in some positive efforts during his juvenile campaign with his best being an on-pace 2nd at this distance. He returns to action for the first time since last October but while he will need this, he trialled well, and he warrants consideration first-up. (4) YEONGGWANGUIHAMSUNG has shown steady improvement across three starts so far, most recently when 4th over 1300M on June 30th. He comes up to this trip for the first time and it can suit. (6) ANY SINGS and (8) BLUE CAVIAR are others in the hunt.

Selections(3) Taurus King (11) Ilgang Daero (4) Yeonggwanguihamsung (6) Any Sings
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 11

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

(9) DOCTOR KINGDOM has run 2nd and 3rd in two starts so far at 1000M and 1200M, both times sitting behind the speed and running on. The slight step up in trip can help and he looks to have scope for plenty more improvement. In this company he may be a little further forward than in those two previous outings, and he can win. (3) ANOTHER ONE showed significant improvement at start number five on July 9th when coming from off the pace to run 2nd at this distance with three of today’s field behind him. A repeat of that effort will put him in the finish again. (2) HERO J also beat a couple of these when a close 2nd at 1200M on July 9th. That was his third start, all at 1200M, and he has shown progress each time. He draws well, and the slightly extended trip can be in his favour. (6) VELOCIRAPTOR and (5) YONG GUN others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(9) Doctor Kingdom (3) Another One (2) Hero J (6) Velociraptor
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 9

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

A very tricky race with plenty having chances. (3) SUCCESS BATTLE is still a maiden but comes up in class here following a 3rd place and then two runner-up finishes. She posted a good time over this distance last time out, she carries a light weight, and having finally drawn a good gate, she can get on pace here and can win. (4) COLUMBIA CHAMP is up in class having registered her maiden win at the second time of asking over 1200M on July 14th racing in pace throughout. She too draws nicely here to get to the front early and she should measure up at this level. (10) SUCCESS YEONGGWANG is another up in class despite being winless. He really looks to have figured things out in his latest three though, all at this distance, and while he draws wider than ideal, with a touch of luck at the start he can get a forward position and be in this a long way. (2) BEAUTY HILL and (7) LET IT GO have both placed at this class and can potentially do so again.

Selections(3) Success Battle (4) Columbia Champ (10) Success Yeonggwang (2) Beauty Hill
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1800M) Special Weight B / KRW 60 Million

Another very competitive race. (3) BACKTOTHELEGEND was an also-ran in the KRA Cup Mile but returned to shallower waters and ran 2nd at class and distance on June 16th when slowly away but quickly up to a handy position. He stays down in the weights, he draws well, and he can have benefitted from that experience of racing around two turns. (10) CHAMP GO enters having won at class and distance on July 16th when close to the pace throughout and then running on to win very pleasingly. He comes up 3kg in the weights, but a repeat is not to be dismissed. (8) HONEY DRAGON is a twenty-race maiden, but his recent form reads well with a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, both at this class and distance. He comes up 3kg in the weights, but he can be running on late and it’s not impossible that today can be his day. The up in class (7) WONDERFUL FILE along with (1) NAKDONG JEONSA are among plenty of others with at least placing chances.

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (July 23)

There is Sunday racing scheduled for both Seoul (10 races from 11:35 to 19:00) and at Busan (7 races from 12:40 to 18:00). The forecast is for heavy rain. Here are the previews:

Hangang Ace is back Seoul on Christmas Eve

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all eleven racing for the very first time. The probable favourite is (1) BUNDANG TSUNAMI. He showed close to the pace in his trial, crossing the line in midfield in a fair time. From the inside gate, he should be able to get to the lead here and he has as much chance as any. (5) TAEPYEONG HERO went through a couple of trials, running an improved 4th on a wet track in the second of them. If he can continue with that trajectory, he can go close here. (4) JECHUK IHO ran a very close 2nd in his heat, coming from off the pace. The time wasn’t quick, but it is enough to put him in the mix here. (11) GREAT STORM and (7) YEOWANG SOCKS, the latter trailing up in the same heat as Bundang Tsunami, are others who hinted at ability.

Selections(1) Bundang Tsunami (5) Taepyeong Hero (4) Jechuk Iho (11) Great Storm
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

(6) BEAT RACER beat a couple of these on his way to 2nd place over 1300M on June 18th. That was his best finish to date and continued a pattern of steady improvement. Like all but two of the field, he steps up to 1400M for the first time and with Moon Se-young climbing on, today can be his day. (2) VILLARRICA took a few goes to figure things out but has picked up in his recent two with a 2nd and a 4th. Both at 1200M. He finished off well both times and the step up to 1400M could work in his favour. (5) ONE SPEAR enters off a best to date result of 2nd over 1300M on July 1st. He is another who comes up to the 1400M for the first time and it may well suit. (10) SAVANA CHARLIE loves coming 4th and has every chance of doing that again. (1) EFFEL TAP another in the placing frame.

Selections(6) Beat Racer (2) Villarrica (5) One Spear (10) Savana Charlie
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but one racing for the first time. That one with prior experience is (3) CHAMSARANGGIL, who having won a trail in May debuted on June 11th over 1200M where she raced handily and briefly hit the front before eventually finishing 2nd. She has had six weeks off since then, but she should have derived benefit from the experience and has every chance of going one better. (7) BORN DIA won her trial having run on pace, stopping the clock in a good time on a wet track. She can be expected to be on pace here and can put in a bold showing first up. The same applies to (4) MY MELODY. She led for much of the way around before being overtaken and ultimately ran 2nd. It’s fair to say that trial winner hasn’t shown much in three starts but nevertheless,  My Melody can be on the speed and in this a long way. (2) ROAD STAR and (8) GEUMA PRECEDE are others in the frame.

Selections(3) Chamsaranggil (7) Born Dia (4) My Melody (2) Road Star
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) JUMONG CHEONHA remains a maiden after six attempts but has finished in the top-four on no fewer than five occasions. That includes his latest two, at 1200M and 1300M when running on for 3rd and 4th, and the slight step up to 1400M today could be exactly what he needs to make the breakthrough against a limited set of rivals. (3) DOLBAE has plenty of experience at the level and while here recent form reads rather ordinary, she has posted some fast times in better company than this. From a good draw she can be on what passes or the speed here and can go close. (10) FLYING LIGHT ran a good 2nd at this class over 1300M two starts back and the margins weren’t huge when he was beaten into 7th last time out. He has a strong finish on him, and the wide draw shouldn’t matter. (11) STAR PRINCSSS and (2) BICHUICA others in the frame.

Selections(8) Jumong Cheonha (3) Dolbae (10) Flying Light (11) Star Princess
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 8

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

(11) GANGSEO BULPAE won an April trial and then ran a close 2nd on debut on June 25th almost making all over this distance and stopping the clock in a significantly quicker time than any of the others here have managed. She should have come on for that run and while she is drawn wider than ideal, she is the one to beat. (10) HANEUL HAETSAL has a 3rd and a 5th from her latest two, both over 1300M and both times having raced on pace. She too received no favours from the draw but with a touch of luck at the start, if she can find a decent position, she should be in the finish. (5) FIRST MENI has finished off her last couple of races well and she steps up to 1300M for the first time. She is third-up this preparation having missed the entire first half of the year and she could be peaking fitness-wise. Solitary debut-maker (1) FIRST KOREA was an on-pace 2nd in a good time in his trial and in this company must be given a chance first-up. (9) URI DAHAMKKE another in the placing frame.

Selections(11) Gangseo Bulpae (10) Haneul Haetsal (5) First Meni (1) First Korea
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (6) SPECIALTIME was a winner on debut over 1200M on June 17th when she overcame gate ten to sit behind the speed and then ran on well. She comes up in class and slightly in distance here, but she comes into a better gate and with some natural improvement from that first run, she can maintain her 100% record. The main danger is (2) BURUI KKOT. She is yet to win in fourteen attempts but has five runner-up finishes to her name, including her latest on June 18th. She is well drawn; she has run good times at this distance and today could be her day. (7) BIG BLED comes up in class having secured her maiden win at start number three on May 28th when she scored by a full seven-lengths over 1200M. This is tougher but the manner of that win suggests that there may be more to come. (4) HWANGGEUMKKOT and (8) DORIPO among plenty of others with placing claims in a competitive race.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 21)

The feature race this weekend is the Minister’s Cup, the final leg of the 2023 Triple Crown at Seoul on Saturday evening. Before that though, racing gets under way with a 7-race twilight program at Busan on Friday running from 15:40 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile fillies with all but two racing for the first time. (8) WHITE FALCON ran 3rd on debut on June 9th, well beaten by a good winner, but running on solidly. She should have derived benefit from the experience and with some natural improvement, can be firmly in contention here. (10) MOTHER ROAD trialled up on a saturated track and acquitted herself well running a close 2nd to an experienced horse in a quick time with just a bit of pushing. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and if she can bring that form to the races, she’ll go close. (5) AJANTA will have plenty of backers. She sat midfield in her trial before running on well for an unhurried 3rd in a fair time and the jockey/trainer combination will ensure she starts at a short price. (3) AMBITIOUS GIRL and (2) WORLD FIRST CAT look to be the other debut-makers to follow.

Selections(8) White Falcon (10) Mother Road (5) Ajanta (3) Ambitious Girl
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 10

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

(8) BACCHUS was well-backed on debut on June 23rd, but he was slow out of the gates and took an age to get into stride before running on late. Accordingly, he was ordered back to trial, and he came through it in accomplished fashion, winning a heat and requalifying just a week later. If he behaves himself at the start this time, the additional trip can suit, and he can win. (1) JEONGMUN LEGEND was a much-improved 2nd when almost leading all the way over 1200M on June 4th. He too steps up to this trip for the first time but from the inside gate, he should be on pace again and he can be in this a long way. (6) MASTER YODA didn’t do much in his first two appearances in the early spring, but after being put away for three months, he returned to run a smart on-pace 2nd over 1300M on June 23rd. He should strip fitter for that run and can be in the mix here. (9) WIN STING and (2) MORO among plenty of others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(8) Bacchus (1) Jeongmun Legend (6) Master Yoda (9) Win Sting
Next Best2, 3
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1800M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(2) STAR DRAGON got his maiden win over 1300M in May and then stepped up to this class and distance for the first time on June 25th and ran a big 3rd, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process when settling back and running on. An apprentice claim takes 3kg off his back, he draws well, and he can win. (6) HAENGBOKHAN GIL comes up in class having secured his maiden win at the tenth time of asking over 1400M on July 7th. The win had been coming and while he tackles the two turns for the first time, there is no reason why that can’t suit. He doesn’t have the benefit of an apprentice claim this time but that’s balanced by Seo Seung-un climbing aboard and he shouldn’t be far away. (9) DOCTOR PERO has been ultra-consistent with a 2nd, a 3rd, and then back-to-back 4th places in four starts since being promoted to this level. Those two placings were over this distance, and he should be a big player again. (3) CENTUM THOR and the up in class (5) GASOK JEIL among others in the frame.

Selections(2) Star Dragon (6) Haengbokhan Gil (9) Doctor Pero (3) Centum Thor
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start  1, 3, 6, 7  

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

This is a competitive race. (2) SKY SHOT is yet to win in nine attempts but has no fewer than seven top-four finishes with his best of 2nd coming over this trip. He comes back in distance today and under a light weight and from a good gate, today could finally be the day. (11) JUST BE HAPPY comes up in class having scored her maiden win at 1200M on June 16th. She has a good finish on her and while she draws a touch wide, she has the potential for more development. (6) GOLD ROSE is a front-runner who enters off a couple of positive results. She will be expected to lead here and can be in this a long way. (1) GOLDEN CAMP and the up in class (4) HWANGWU JANGSA  are among others who can have a say.

Selections(2) Sky Shot (11) Just Be Happy (6) Gold Rose (1) Golden Camp
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 4 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(11) HWANGOO MONEY has never finished worse than 4th but it took him until his most recent start on June 16th to get his maiden win when he stalked the leader all the way before taking things up late over 1400M. He does come up in class here, but he is down slightly in the weights and could well be the one to beat. (6) MIRACLE ONE took six goes to get her maiden win but she evidently enjoyed it as she promptly followed up with another, both at 1200M. That brings her rapidly up in class, but she too is nicely weighted and from a good draw could very well be on or close to the speed this time, and she should measure up in this company. (8) CROWD ONE enters off a solid 3rd place at this class over 1400M on June 25th when ridden further forward than usual. She has a good finish on her, and similar tactics here should see her close. (7) RUBY STORM is up in class following a last start win at this distance. He comes in under a light weight with an apprentice claim and isn’t to be dismissed. (10) GOLDEN POINT another who can be competitive.

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