Busan

Korean Derby Day Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (June 11)

It’s Derby Day 2023 and sixteen will line up for the year’s biggest Classic at Seoul Racecourse on Sunday afternoon. See here for full preview. The big race is race 8 on a 10 race card at Seoul which runs from 10:35 to 18:00. There are also 7 races at Busan from 11:25 to 17:05. Here are all the previews:

It’s rare for a filly to even run in the Derby these days but Raon Giant takes her chance on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener and it’s competitive. (8) VILLARRICA was a much-improved 2nd at start number four over this distance on April 29th when ridden handy and running on in a quick time on a wet track. He can sit behind the speed again here and can go one better. (11) NINE EAGLE has a 2nd and a 3rd from two starts so far, both over today’s trip. He has been on pace both times so the wide gate can be a challenge, but he should be close again. (1) KING GO TAEYANG improved to 4th at start number two on May 13th when settling midfield and running on. Third-up he can be peaking fitness wise and from a good draw shouldn’t be far away. (4) TESTA BLUE and (6) PURPLE SHINHWA are others with placing chances.

Selections(8) Villarrica (11) Nine Eagle (1) King Go Taeyang (4) Testa Blue
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

It’s fair to say that (1) SPEAR GOLD has mixed her form across her eight starts so far but her latest effort on April 29th was encouraging. She led for much of the way around on a wet track over this distance and ultimately ran a close 3rd. She draws nicely to get an easy run to the lead again and she can be in this a long way. (6) AKKAENGI has finished no worse than 6th in four appearances so far. His times haven’t been quick, but he has a 3rd place to his name and in this company may well be ridden further forward than he has been previously. Antonio, who rode him to that 3rd, climbs back aboard. Those two in either order are the clear top two picks (8) FIRST CHOUX and (7) TI AMO have hinted at ability while (11) NEMO SPIRIT is another who may improve.

Selections(1) Spear Gold (6) Akkaengi (8) First Choux (7) Ti Amo
Next Best11, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 10

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

A regular maiden to kick things off on the south coast and three of the eleven are racing for the first time. One of those newcomers will be a warm favourite. That’s (3) CHAMSARANGGIL, who went through two trials in similarly quick times, crossing the line 1st in the latter having been on pace throughout. She draws nicely and if she brings that form to the races, she has every chance of a first-up success. It isn’t a strong race. Of the experienced ones, (7) SEVEN QUEEN has been getting closer over her latest few starts culminating in a 3rd place over 1200M on April 21st when coming from off the pace. She has by far the smartest finish among these and should be running on strong again. (8) TAURUS KING could be one at odds. He did nothing in his first two appearances and got sent back to trial after the second of them. He had three months off during which time he was gelded, and he looked much better trialling up behind Chamsaranggil. (4) HAVE A GOOD YEAR and (6) RUNNING FASHION are others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Chamsaranggil (7) Seven Queen (8) Taurus King (4) Have A Good Year
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start2, 3 4, 11

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

(5) SOARA TO TO is the one to beat here. She has shown progress across her three starts to date, culminating in a 3rd place over this distance on May 13th when she was on pace throughout and didn’t go down by much. She carries the same weight here, draws well to be on or close to the speed, and she won’t need to improve by much in order to win. (9) HEY MAMA also seems to be on the right trajectory since returning from eight months out in April. She has a 5th and a 4th in two subsequent starts and third-up this preparation she may be peaking fitness wise. (2) TAEPYEONGMU only very narrowly beaten into 2nd on May 6th over this distance. From a good gate, she will be on pace and can be in this a long way. (8) BLUE ARCH and (7) MADE STAR other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Soara To To (9) Hey Mama (2) Taepyeongmu (8) Blue Arch
Next Best7, 4
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 9

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

(10) PURPLE STAR shapes as the warm favourite here. She comes in off a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both over today’s trip and both times from on pace. She has the challenge of a wider gate this time, but she looks ready to win. The logical second pick is (5) SUCCESS YEONGGWANG. His most recent, on May 14th, was his best, when he led for almost the entire way only to be caught late on. The same apprentice jockey once more takes 3kg off his back and he has every chance of going close again. (8) WONDERFUL IMPACT was slowly away last time out when well beaten over 1400M. That was out of character and with a better jump today she has placing claims. (11) EVERY KING IJI and (1) ANY SINGS others in the frame.

Selections(10) Purple Star (5) Success Yeonggwang (8) Wonderful Impact (11) Every King Iji
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 9, 10

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

(1) CUPID CHIC is the standout here. Her most recent on May 13th was her best so far when she overcame gate ten to get on to the speed and ended up a narrowly beaten 2nd. She comes up to this trip for the first time but there’s no reason why it can’t suit, and from a much better gate, she can get to the front again and this time go one better. (4) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG stepped up to this trip last time out on May 14th and recorded his second consecutive 3rd place finish racing handily throughout and stopping the clock in a faster time than any of the others have managed for the distance. Moon Se-young gets on today and he should be aiming to match or better. (9) LAST PITCH was 4th behind Challanhan Pokpung in that May 14th race. A similar run will put him in the finish here. (3) AREUMDAUN SAI and (6) MENI SHARK are the other placing possibles.

Selections(1) Cupid Chic (4) Challanhan Pokpung (9) Last Pitch (3) Areumdaun Sai
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 9, 10, 11

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

Competitive race with two standouts. (7) BLUE CAPTAIN has just the one win from nineteen starts but is seemingly working towards another and was a close 2nd over 1300M last time out on May 19th when handy throughout. He only comes up 1kg in the weights and can sit just behind the speed and finish well. The main danger is (8) BLUE SKY. She too has just the one win, but she has finished in the top five on seven of nine occasions, including last time out when 3rd in a good time at this class and distance. In this company she can be expected to be on the speed, and she can win. The form drops off significantly after those two. (1) ACE HORANGI may be better for the drop back in trip, with (5) TAEWANG SINGI and (3) E CASH other possible improvers.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 9)

It’s Korean Derby weekend in Seoul but the action gets underway at Busan on Friday where there a 7 races from 12:30 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

Eleven previously unraced two-year-old fillies here so we head for the trial videos. The clear standout is (10) BAEKDUUI KKUM, who led all the way around in her trial on May 20th, crossing the line twelve-lengths ahead of anything else and stopping the clock in a quick time. If she brings anything like that form to the races, she will win easily and she will be a very short-priced favourite here.  (5) DOCTOR KANE has the next quickest trial time. She settled handily in her heat and ran on well and that will be enough to make her the second pick here. (8) COLUMBIA CHAMP and (1) KOHINOOR trialled up together on May 27th. Their times weren’t fast, but both showed enough to suggest that they can be competitive first-up in a race like this. (2) YONGBI STAR another who could go well.

Selections(10) Baekduui Kkum (5) Doctor Kane (8) Columbia Champ (1) Kohinoor
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 10

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

Maidens. (5) ROAD TO THUNDER just about gets the verdict having been an improved 4th at start number two in March when racing on pace. She stooped the clock in a faster time than any of the others have managed for the distance, and while she has had a couple of months off, a similar run will put her in the finish. (11) VELOCIRATOR has five finishes between 3rd and 5th setting fair times. She has the strongest final furlong among these so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can challenge late here. (10) NAMYANG DORI was an improved 2nd last time out on May 7th when settling handy. She may need a touch of luck to find position from the wide draw but can go close again. (7) ROCK POWER and (6) ACE RUN other potentials for the places.

Selections(5) Road To Thunder (11) Velociraptor (10) Namyang Dori (7) Rock Power
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

It’s hard to go too far past (6) GASOK JEIL here. He comes in off three strong showings over this distance with a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two. In this company, he can settle behind the early speed and should prove too strong at the business end. (7) RUN TO KING has hinted at ability with a pair of 4th places from his latest two, both at 1200M. He has run on well both times and the step up in trip could suit him very well. (1) SPECIAL FACT mixes her form, but she has picked up plenty of minor money finishes and from a good draw, she can be expected to go close here. (10) I’M KING IJI and (9) POWER RIDE are among others who can be expected to challenge for the places.

Selections(6) Gasok Jeil (7) Run To King (1) Special Fact (10) I’m King Iji
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 10

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

(11) DOCTOR CUCKOO got his maiden win two starts back over 1200M before running 3rd on his first try at this class over that same distance on May 21st. He likes to run on or close to the pace, so he does have the challenge of the wide gate but the slight step up in trip gives him a bit more time to find a position before the turn and he looks the one to beat. (2) SPECIALIST comes up in class having got his maiden win last time out in a quick time over this distance on May 5th. He comes down slightly in the weights, he draws nicely, and he can measure up in this company. (4) B.K. NUMA is also up in class having had a few too many near-misses at class 6. She’s been back to trial since her last run, which she came through very nicely and under a very light weight, she can be in the mix. (9) GOLDEN POINT and (1) HWARANG SKY other placing hopes.

Selections(11) Doctor Cuckoo (2) Specialist (4) B.K. Numa (9) Golden Point
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

Five of these raced one another at class and distance on May 14th. (4) TOP FRIEND was the best fancied among them and while he didn’t get the most fluent of trips, ultimately ending in 5th place, it wasn’t a bad run and his record going into that warrants him another chance here from a better gate. (8) JANGSAN DEFI got her maiden win at 1200M two starts back before running 3rd over 1300M on her first try at this class on May 19th. She comes up to the mile for the first time and is also up 2kg in the weights, but neither should be an issue and she can be a big danger here. (1) SUSO POWER ran the best of those in that May 14th race, overcoming a wide gate as well as big odds to run 2nd. That was an uptick on recent form, and she can maintain it here. (3) PEGACORN and (7) THEIA are others to keep safe.

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Korean Oaks Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (June 4)

The Korean Oaks, the second leg of the Triple Tiara for three-year-old fillies, headlines Sunday’s action at Busan. See here for a full preview of the big race. There are 7 races at Busan from 11:25 to 17:05 as well as 10 at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00:

Golden Power won the 2022 Korean Oaks (Pic: KRA)

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

Maidens in the opener and (4) SOARA MEME will be a warm favourite. After an indifferent debut, she has a 2nd and a 3rd in two subsequent appearances both at this distance and showing versatility first by coming from off the pace and then by racing on the speed. She has the fastest time of any for the distance and will take some beating.  (6) NEW POINT was an improved 2nd on her second start on May 7th when stalking the lead throughout. She was well beaten by a good winner but with some more natural improvement here, she can be close again. (11) FIRST USER enters off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two and led in much of the latter in a quick race at this distance. The draw isn’t ideal but with a touch of luck at the start, she can be in this. (8) NAOL SKY and (1) DAEJANGBYEOL are the other logical place chances.

Selections(4) Soara Meme (6) New Point (11) First User (8) Naol Sky
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

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

(7) SONGAM DRAGON was 2nd in a desperately tight finish in a quick race over 1200M on April 29th, finishing very well and almost getting there. With the benefit of an apprentice claim again, she continues under a very light weight again and in this weak company she can go one better. The rest all need to show an uptick in form. (6) ONE SPEAR hinted at it last time when marginally improving. He has tended to get too far back in his races but did run on last time and posted a fair time over this distance. A similar run should see him in the places here. (1) TOUGH YEOJE isn’t quick, but she has placed in this kind of company before and from the inside gate, can do again here. (11) GOLDEN PEARL and (3) GOLDEN SNIPER among others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Songam Dragon (6) One Spear (1) Tough Yeoje (11) Golden Pearl
Next Best3, 2
Fast Start5, 8, 9, 11

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

(4) MOVIE MORE took a couple of goes to figure things out but has run well for 2nd and 3rd from her latest two, both times racing on the speed over 1200M. She draws well to get to the front again and looks very much the one to beat. (6) GLOBAL SARANG has a 2nd and a 3rd on his resume too. He comes out of quite an ordinary race when 5th of eleven on April 21st when he was slowly away and settle back. He can finish well though and given more of a chance here, he can get closer. (5) NEOGA CHOEGO enters off back-to-back 4th place finishes, both at this distance. In this company, he can get a more prominent early position than usual and can be a danger. (1) HAPPY BRIANNA and (2) JEONGMUN LEGEND are others who can be considered to have enough improvement in them to place.

Selections(4) Movie More (6) Global Sarang (5) Neoga Choego (1) Happy Brianna
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 11

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

(4) AMAN BAROWS was a comfortable winner over 1200M on April 8th when settling midfield and running on. She comes up in class and slightly in distance today, but she comes down in the weights, and while she will need to go a bit quicker here, she still has potential for more improvement. (1) TIZ INDY was a winner at this distance at class 6 level in January, and while she took a couple of goes to find her feet at this level, she came back into form with a very solid 3rd place at class and distance on April 16th. She gets an inside gate for the first time since her win and that can put her closer to the pace and into the picture here. (8) KKANGDORI remains a maiden after twenty-seven attempts but today looks as good a chance as any to change that. She has two 2nd places from her latest three appearances and while she us up in the weights, that’s balanced with Johan climbing aboard. (9) DONGTEUJA WAY and (7) BICHUI DAERYUK other potentials.

Selections(4) Aman Barows (1) Tiz Indy (8) Kkangdori (9) Dongteuja Way
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 9

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

(5) UNJU OREUM has four top-five finishes from five starts so far and now looks ready to win. She comes in off a 3rd lace at 1200M when she led from the gate, and she also has the fastest time among these for the distance to the tune of nearly a whole second. She should be on or close to the pace here and can have too much. (9) DAEHO NARA too has been knocking on the door for a while. She likes to sit back and run from off the pace and while she has tended to leave herself a bit much to do, if she can be in striking distance in the home straight, she should go close. (1) DREAM RUN has started to hint at ability recently and was a close 4th last time out over this distance. She comes into a better gate today and a similar run will see her close. (3) ROCKS and (7) QUEEN ROMANCE are others to consider.

Selections(5) Unju Oreum (9) Daeho Nara (1) Dream Run (3) Rocks
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

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

Fillies and mares only here. (8) HERO SARANG is the only one that enters here with a last start result of anything better than 8th, and that is enough for her to warrant favourite status. At her latest on May 7th, she was 4th at this distance when racing on pace. She has the best start of all of these so should get to the lead again and under a light weight, she can win. (2) FINAL JILJU was a winner over this distance at class 6 level in April but raced ungenerously on her first start at this level on May 14th to the extent she got sent back to trial. She came through that trail in good order and with a more mature run, she looks like the main danger. (4) GALSAEK HYANGGI has a habit of being slow away although she knows how to run on and did that to spectacular effect two starts back when a winner at this class over 1300M. Normal service was resumed at her latest but while she only beat a couple home, the margins weren’t big, and in this company, she should run past plenty late on. (6) MUSTANG CHARM and (1) GLOBAL PRIME other potentials for the minors.

Selections(8) Hero Sarang (2) Final Jilju (4) Galsaek Hyanggi (6) Mustang Charm
Next Best1, 7
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (June 2)

It’s Korean Oaks weekend in Busan. The filly Classic takes place on Sunday but the weekend starts with a seven-race card on Friday from 12:35 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens with eight of the eleven racing for the very first time. (6) MAGARITA is a striking grey Hansen filly who was held together very nicely in her trial on May 13th which she won having been prominent throughout and beating three of her fellow debut-makers here. She should be on the speed and can make a winning debut. Raon are seemingly running out of names but (7) RAON THE AGAIN matched Magarita almost stride for stride in that May 13th trial and crossed the line just half a length in arrears. A bold showing first up is possible and she too should be on pace. (3) ROAD TO MAGIC was a trial winner in April, leading most of the way around. He draws very well here and is another first-timer with claims. Among the experienced ones (1) HAERANG ISEUL looks the best. She ran 2nd on debut in March over this distance having raced handily and should have benefited from the experience. (4) LADY VADER is another with the potential to improve.

Selections(6) Magarita (7) Raon The Again (3) Road To Magic (1) Haerang Iseul
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

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

(5) SOUTHERN JOY will be a warm favourite here. She has five top-four finishes from six starts to date and as posted fair times over this distance. In this company and with a good draw, she should be on the early speed and will take some beating. (8) FANTASTIC TIME didn’t do much in two starts around the turn of the year but was much improved on her reappearance after almost four months off on May 12th. She raced on the pace for the first time and came home a solid 4th. She should strip fitter for that run and can go closer this time. (7) UNJU GLOBAL has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two with a 2nd and a 4th. Both at this distance and both times showing at the front. She’ll be challenging for the lead again and should be in this a long way. (1) VICTOR BASIUM and (11) SILK FASHION ROAD among others in the minor money frame.

Selections(5) Southern Joy (8) Fantastic Time (7) Unju Global (1) Victor Basium
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

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

(5) TTANBONG QUEEN comes back in trip following a good 4th over a mile on April 30th when she led for part of the way. At the start before she was 2nd over this distance in a time much quicker than any of her rivals here have achieved and she should have too much. That will mean overturning the form on (1) EONJENA YEONGUNG, who was 2nd in that April race at a mile. A twenty-four-start maiden, that may not change here but from a good gate, if he can get a better start than he usually does, he can be a danger again. (4) SKY SEUNG had nine months between her first two starts but should be fitter for her reappearance on April 28th when she settled handy and ran 5th at this distance. She carries a light weight, draws well, and can get closer. (10) SOLEDAD and (11) BORA CHAMP are other potential improvers.

Selections(5) Ttanbong Queen (1) Eonjena Yeongung (4) Sky Seung (10) Soledad
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (3) SEOGWI FLASH remains a maiden but has been getting closer and enters off a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two, both in good times over this distance. She comes up in class here, but the opposition isn’t intimidating and from a good gate, she can make her breakthrough. (2) STELL LUNA has raced on pace in her latest two and ran a good 3rd over this distance on May 7th. From a great draw she can get an easy run to the lead here and can be in this a long way. (6) FOLK ROCK came from off the pace to get her maiden win over 1200M on May 7th. She comes up in class here, but the distance can suit, and she can measure up. (4) HAPPY TAEYANG is another up in class who can be competitive and along with (8) FLYING TOUCH, can be considered for the places.  

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 28)

Sunday’s racing is at both Seoul (11 races from 10:35 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:50 to 16:30). No Stakes races but plenty to get stuck into. The forecast is for rain throughout the weekend so if you’re coming bring an umbrella and if you’re playing be sure to check out the wet track form:

Ranut bis for four in a row in Seoul Race 7 (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

The capital’s first juvenile race of the year so all eleven are racing for the first time. (3) HANGANG CROWN was the standout in trials, leading her heat all the way around and stopping the clock in the quickest time. She draws nicely and she will be favourite. (7) GEOLJAK ONE and (2) YONGAM SESANG also won their respective heats and in identical times. Geoljak One perhaps had the slightly easier time of it and of the two is marginally preferred. (11) ECLIPSE BERRY didn’t win her trial, but she ran well, crossing the line 2nd behind an experienced older horse and without being pushed too much. Moon Se-young’s appointment will lead plenty to come down on her side. Going on times, (8) JANGGUN GARAM is another who has a chance first-up although as we saw in Busan’s equivalent race on Friday, a lot can happen between trial and debut.

Selections(3) Hangang Crown (7) Geoljak One (2) Yongam Sesang (11) Eclipse Berry
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens here. (9) DAONDI has finished 5th in both starts so far but did show some improvement in the most recent of them. He has run through the line strongly enough and with a little more improvement may have winning claims here. (4) BIG BLED has shown progress across her three starts culminating with her 3rd place at this distance at her latest on April 9th. Her times haven’t been impressive but, in this company, she could well get to the front, and she won’t need to be much quicker to go very close here. (6) SIDAEUI MYEONGJAK made little impression from a wide draw last time out but if we go on his 4th place at this distance two starts back, he warrants consideration. In a race this weak the debut-makers must be examined. (7) SEONGEUN RISING won her trial and while the time wasn’t fast, that’s enough to give her a chance. (1) STEALTH PARK another who may improve.

Selections(9) Daondi (4) Big Bled (6) Sidaeui Myeongjak (7) Seongeun Rising
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 10, 11

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

Quite a good-looking maiden with plenty looking as though they have a win in them. (4) CLAIR QUEEN is one of them. She comes in off her best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on April 22nd when ridden more forward than she had been previously. From a good draw similar tactics can be expected today, and she can go one better. (5) SSEULMO has seemingly figured things out in his latest two, with a 3rd and a 2nd. Both times he led until the closing stages, and he seems sure to be on pace and in this a long way again. (3) RAON JUMP has the fastest time among these for the distance, achieved when 5th last time out on April 29th when the track was producing some quick races. She has tended to leave herself too much to do but should be finishing off well and can run into a place. (8) MAGUMA is another who will be doing his best work late on and he already has a 2nd place to his name. Solitary debut-maker (7) COSMO RUN improved in his second trial when he ran 2nd behind a class 1 horse. If he brings that form to the races, he can go well first-up.

Selections(4) Clair Queen (5) Sseulmo (3) Raon Jump (8) Maguma
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

Having bolted up in a February trial, (9) KALJABI was sent off as favourite on debut on March 5th. He showed towards the front but ultimately finished 4th. He should have come on for that experience and after a further twelve-weeks off, he can be given another chance. The main danger is in the adjoining gate. (10) ROSE BLADE was also well backed on debut on April 30th following a promising trial, and he delivered with a good 3rd place over this distance, settling just forward of midfield and running on. He should have derived benefit from the run and can go closer here. (5) WAITING FOR YOU did little in her first two outings but was an improved 3rd in her latest on April 21st when racing handy throughout. That will probably be enough to make her third-favourite here. (1) SUCCESS FRONT and (4) HAENGBOK CHUKJE the most likely among the rest to improve.

Selections(9) Kaljabi (10) Rose Blade (5) Waiting For You (1) Success Front
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 9, 10

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

(2) MAUIWAY got his win when practically making all over 1200M in January. Since then, he has raced twice at this level running 5th and most recently 3rd, both times having settled back in the pack. He has a nice draw here and can sit behind the early speed and run on. (6) FIJI BLADE is still a maiden but comes up in class having finished as runner-up in both her starts so far, both at 1200M. She comes down in the weights and should be on pace and while she may find one too quick again, she can certainly measure up in this company. (4) SAENAE KHAN got his maiden win at this distance at class 6 level in February. He has two 4th places in two goes at this level and should be in at least the placing mix again. (7) CLUB D and (3) SUPREME STAR are others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Mauiway (6) Fiji Blade (4) Saenae Khan (7) Club D
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(3) FANTASTIC CHAMP debuted last May but wasn’t seen again until March when he got his maiden win at this distance. He went up to 1300M for his first try at class 5 on April 28th and while he showed prominently, he ultimately finished 5th. Third-up this preparation he may well be at peak fitness and back at 1200M he can win this. (9) GOLDENTHUNDERBOLT is yet to win in twelve attempts but ran well for his fourth runner-up finish at class and distance on April 14th when close to the pace throughout. At the start before he came from off the pace to dead-heat for 3rd so he is versatile, and he can be a danger here. (4) TAEYANG EUTTEUM has the fastest time of any of these at the distance, record when 3rd – a long way behind a good winner – on May 5th. She remains lightly weighted and merits at least a place chance. (1) GOLD ROSE and the returning (6) WORLD FIVE, are other potentials.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 26)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 75 Million

It’s the first two-year-old race of the season and that means a return to the five-furlong chute. All are unraced but fortunately most came through the same trials, so we have plenty to go on (5) GLORY CROWN was held together very nicely in his heat on April 29th breaking well to lead comfortably and went round under a hold only passed in the closing stages by one going flat out. The time was good, three of today’s rivals were behind him, and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. (9) WELCOME BACK was asked to do a little bit more in his trial but came through well, running 3rd in a quick time and beaten only by a pair of four-year-olds. A repeat of that will put him firmly in contention. (11) BORIS MARINE was a further two-lengths back in the same trial, running through the line well. (3) YEONGGWANGUIPRINCE and (6) DOCTOR KINGDOM among others who could go well first-up. 

Selections(5) Glory Crown (9) Welcome Back (11) Boris Marine (3) Yeonngwanguiprince
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

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

Three-year-old maidens. (7) HAVE A GOOD YEAR has shown progress across three starts so far culminating in a 2nd place at this distance on April 14th when he led through the early stages. He can be expected to be on the speed again and this time can go all the way. (10) CHAS PALPAL offered nothing in his first three outings but significantly improved when 2nd at start number four over this distance on April 9th. He posted a time for the 1200M faster than any of the others have managed and the way he came from off the pace, from an even wider draw, suggests gate ten won’t be an issue. To cap it all off, an apprentice claim takes him down 2kg. (4) GEUMA HUGE HIT didn’t do much on debut last November but looked much better when 4th on her return on April 23rd, albeit well back behind a good winner. She should benefit from that run and can improve here. (2) SUCCESSFUL and (5) BRAVE CAPTAIN, the latter back in trip and sure to be on pace, are others to consider.

Selections(7) Have A Good Year (10) Chas Palpal (4) Geuma Huge Hit (2) Successful
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens and a few look ready to win. (3) HWANGWU JANGSA won two trials and then ran 3rd on debut over 1200M on April 9th. He overcame gate ten that day to reach a handy position and with the benefit of experience and a better draw, he can go close here. (8) ZETTA DREAM has a 2nd and a 4th from two starts so far, the latter at this distance. He can be on pace here and has solid chances. (11) THE PURE MAN beat Zetta Dream when 3rd over this distance on April 28th. That followed a 2nd on debut at 1200M. He drew the same gate last time out and proved himself able to settle back and run on and he can be a danger late on here. There are two debut-makers and (1) THUNDER GONGJU will have plenty of backers. She went through two trials, failing to qualify in the first of them behind Hwangwu Jangsa but was much better in the second when on pace and running 2nd in a quick time. She draws well here and can put in a bold first-up run. (4) THE BEST EVER debuted inauspiciously last year but looked much better when trialling up two weeks ago and is another to consider.

Selections(3) Hwangwu Jangsa (8) Zetta Dream (11) The Pure Man (1) Thunder Gongju
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

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

Tricky maiden with the form unconvincing for most. (9) SUCCESS BATTLE was a significant improver at start number three over 1200M on April 23rd when 3rd over 1200M, settling midfield and running on. Like most of the field he steps up to 1400M for the first time and it can suit. (6) JORDAN FIGHTING has been solid if unspectacular across four outings so far. In this company he should be on pace and solid if unspectacular may be enough to see him go very close. (2) KICK’N RUSH has a 2nd and a (dead-heat) 3rd to her name, both over 1300M. A previous attempt at 1400M didn’t go especially well but she is nicely drawn here and should be ready for another go. (7) SUPER KANEL and (8) ECTON BATTLE among others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Success Battle (6) Jordan Fighting (2) Kick’N Rush (7) Super Kanel
Next Best8, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

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

Competitive race. (8) SPECIAL WIND is the probable favourite despite still being a maiden after twelve attempts. He has no fewer than nine top-five finishes including last time out on April 28th when he overcame gate eleven to run 2nd over 1300M with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He also has a 3rd place at this distance and today could be his day. If he does find one too quick again then it’s most likely to be (11) GEUMA UNO. He ran 3rd in that April 28th race, a length and a half behind Special Wind. That was his second consecutive 3rd place finish, both times from the same gate as today and third-up this preparation, he may be peaking fitness wise. (2) DYNAMIC WINNER comes up in class and slightly in trip following a maiden win at start number four when she made all over 1300M. She comes down in the weights, draws well, and can measure up in this company. (3) POWER GUY, impressive n a trial earlier this month, and (6) MONEY BAG, are others in the hunt.

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YTN Cup Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 21)

The YTN Cup, the second leg of the Stayer Series is the headline race on Sunday. See here for a fuller preview. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:50 to 16:35. Here’s the race-by-race:

Winner’s Man won the 1st leg of the Stayer Series (Pic: KRA)

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

(9) RAON HOLIDAY was a much-improved 3rd at start number four on April 15th, finishing 2nd in a quick time. He raced on the speed for the first time and while he draws wider this time, expect similar tactics today, and he can go one better. (8) CANDY GLOW will be challenging him for the lead. He enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, both at this trip and both in good times. She’ll surely be in this a long way. (3) BURUI JILJU returned from nine months out to run 2nd over 1700M on March 26th, sitting handy throughout. That was a big effort first-up, but he’s had eight weeks off since and he will be expected to go close here. (11) NEMO SPIRIT and (1) FINE DAY are other potential improvers.

Selections(9) Raon Holiday (8) Candy Glow (3) Burui Jilju (11) Nemo Spirit
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

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

Not the strongest of maidens and that will make (10) SEONGSIL INDONG a warm favourite. She steps up marginally in trip for the first time following three fair efforts over 1200M when she has run on well each time. Moon Se-young climbs on board today and it will be no surprise if they win. (2) TRES VITE on the other hand comes back in trip after a couple of spins around 1700M including a last start 4th on March 26th when coming from off the pace. He draws well here and should be competitive. (4) WONDERFUL FOX has shown slight but noticeable improvement over her three outings culminating in 5th place last time over this trip. Her times haven’t been quick but if she continues to get better the same rate, then she will merit at least a place chance here. (6) EURO GANGJA and (1) GEOMOON others in the minor money frame.

Selections(10) Seongsil Indong (2) Tres Vite (4) Wonderful Fox (6) Euro Gangja
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 9

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

No fewer than five of the twelve are up in class last stat winners. We’ll side with (10) K N GOLDEN KING. With a 3rd and a 2nd from his first two starts, it was no surprise when he duly obliged when favourite over 1200M on April 8th. He made all that day so he does have the challenge of a wider draw, but he also comes up in trip so has an additional 100-metres to the turn and that could be enough for Moon Se-young to find his desired position. (6) FLYING LIGHT won on debut and while he took a couple of goes to figure things out at this class, he comes in off a strong class and distance 2nd on April 16th, well beaten by a good winner, but a strong performance, nonetheless. He draws well to sit handy or race on pace and a repeat will put him in the finish again. Returning to the up in class ones, (5) HWANGGEUMKKOT and (4) MIR POINT look the most likely to measure up. (8) WALGADAK another of those with experience at this level who can go close in what is a very competitive race.  

Selections(10) K N Golden King (6) Flying Light (5) Hwanggeumkkot (4) Mir Point
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 9, 10

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

A very competitive maiden to open proceedings on the south coast and it’s hard to be confident about much of the form. The one thing is clear is that (4) VELOCIRAPTOR has the fastest time for the distance among these, recorded three starts back when 3rd, and that is enough to give him a chance here. He didn’t go well over a mile last time but back to 1300M and from a good gate, he has as much chance as any. (5) TOO CUTE GIRL and (9) HAMA come sin having run 3rd and 4th respectively when they raced one another at this distance on April 16th. There wasn’t much to choose between them that day – it was for both their best performance so far – and with them both carrying the same weight, we’ll side with Too Cute Girl by virtue of having the better gate. (2) MIRACULUM and (11) VERLUC are other possibles for the minors.

Selections(4) Velociraptor (5) Too Cute Girl (9) Hama (2) Miraculum
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start3, 6, 10, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (1) BURUI KKOT is yet to win from twelve attempts but has no eleven top five finishes including four as runner up. She comes back in trip after several near misses at 1300M, she has the plum inside gate, which should get her on to the speed with a minimal amount of fuss and an apprentice jockey takes her weight down. This could be her day. The main danger is (8) TROT QUEEN. She was 5th to Burui Kkot’s4th with little between them when they raced one another over 1300M on April 8th. She too is yet to win but has good times at this distance and she will be running on strong late. (5) WONPYEONG GWANGYA comes back in trip after weakening late on over 1300M in her latest two. From a good gate and under a light weight, she can be on pace and in this a long way. (10) GOLDEN LUCKY and (3) HONEY PUNCH, the latter who can have her latest outing forgiven as she was first up following a lengthy absence, are others to consider.

Selections(1) Burui Kkot (8) Trot Queen (5) Wonpyeong Gwangya (10) Golden Lucky
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(2) HANEUL MISO remains a maiden following thirteen starts but enters with her recent form at class and distance reading very well. She has been back to trial since her latest 3rd place on April 16th and se won her heat in fine fashion three weeks ago. She draws well here, carries a very light weight, and today can be her day. (7) DOCTOR CUCKOO is up in class having secured his maiden win on April 28th when stalking the lead early before taking things up turning into the straight and going on to win by however many he please. This is tougher but the manner of that victory suggests there is more to come, and he shouldn’t be dismissed. (8) SEOGWI CHUKJE is another maiden, but she comes in following three consecutive runner-up finishes at this class, two of them at today’s distance. Among them was the fastest time for any of these over the 1200M and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (6) B.K. GALLOP and (1) CHEONGMA POWER others in the placing frame.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 19)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (5) GOLDEN STELLA was an on-pace 2nd on debut in a good time over this distance. She was well beaten by a good winner but should have come on for the experience and from a good draw, she should be on pace again and this time can go one better. (10) MASARANGGIL recorded a 2nd and a 3rd in two starts at the beginning of the year, coming from off the pace both times. She hasn’t races since that 3rd back in February, but she looked well in a trial last week and so long as she didn’t leave her race there, she can be a danger late on. First time starter (8) TREE MORE won a trial last summer but didn’t make it to the races. He has since been gelded and requalified in fine fashion when 2nd in a quick trial in April. If he brings that form to race day, he can put in a bold showing first up. (2) UNJU BONNEUNG and (7) KING ANYDAY others in the placing hunt.

Selection(5) Golden Stella (10) Masaranggil (8) Tree More (2) Unju Bonneung
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

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

(9) GEUMA STARRY raced twice last autumn, finishing 2nd and 5th, both over this distance. She returns for the first time since November and looked good when 4th of nine in a quick trial at the end of last month. She draws a touch wide but if she can get to the lead, she may take some passing. (11) GOLDEN CAMP comes in off a best to date 2nd place when settling midfield and running on over this distance on April 28th. She remains under a light weight and should be close again. (7) BARBELL QUEEN beat a couple of these on her way to an improved 5th over this distance on April 23rd. She won’t need to run any better to get closer in this company. (3) JUST BE HAPPY raced once without distinction at the end of last year but looked better when trialling up again in April. She led her trial and from a good gate can lead here. (8) TURBO YEOGEOL another potential improver.

Selection(9) Geuma Starry (11) Golden Camp (7) Barbell Queen (3) Just Be Happy
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 10

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

Competitive maiden with plenty looking ready to win. (8) GASOK JEIL looks close to figuring things out and comes in having beaten a couple of these on his way to 2nd place over this distance on April 16th. He was ridden further forward that in his previous starts and with similar tactics today, he can win. (3) WONDERFUL IMPACT was 3rd in that April 16th race, finishing in that position for the second consecutive time. From a good gate, she can sit handy and run on strongly. (5) HAENGBOKHAN GIL has the fastest time among these for the distance, recorded when 4th two starts back. That was his best finish to date but in this company, he should be aiming to match or better it. (2) USEUNGMUPAE and (10) SOLEDAD are others in at least the placing frame.

Selection(8) Gasok Jeil (3) Wonderful Impact (5) Haengbokhan Gil (2) Useungmupae
Next Best10, 4
Fast Start2. 9. 6. 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(5) PURPLE LINE made all to get his maiden win by a full ten-lengths over this distance at start number four on April 16th. He comes up in class today, but the manner of that win suggests that there is more to come, and he is the one to beat here. (4) NAMHAE MISO took just two goes to get her maiden win, scoring over 1300M on April 16th. Her times haven’t been quick but the slight step up in trip can suit and she should be measuring up at this level. (3) WONDERFUL OCEAN is yet to win in eleven attempts but has proven competitive at this level with two 3rd places. She likes to sit handy and run on and she has a strong finish on her. (9) PATRIOT and (8) ZET CASH are others who can enter the calculations.

Selection(5) Purple Line (4) Namhae Miso (3) Wonderful Ocean (9) Patriot
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 7, 9, 11

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

(4) JANGSAN DEFI had an undistinguished juvenile campaign but returned from six months off to win over 1200M on April 21st. She comes up in class and slightly in trip, but should strip fitter for the run, and can measure up. (1) JEOLDAE BOSS is yet to win but has several near-misses with five top-four finishes from seven starts. He has run consistent times and from the plum inside gate, he should be on or close to the pace and can be in this a long way. (9) HELLO SUNSHINE got his maiden win on April 9th when making all over 1200M. He comes up in both class and slightly in distance here but shouldn’t be out of his depth among this field. (8) MILK DAY and (10) RUBY STORM are among others in the frame in what shapes as one of the most competitive races of the day.

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SBS Sports Sprint, Ttukseom Cup & Exchange Race Sunday – Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (May 14)

It’s Ttukseom Cup and SBS Sports Sprint day at Seoul on Sunday. See here for full preview of the two races. There are also six reciprocal Trophy Exchange races. Busan hosts Trophies for OSAF (South America), the Jockey Club of Turkey and the Selangor Turf Club. At Seoul there are Trophies in honour of the Royal Western India Turf Club, the China Horse Industry Association and Tokyo City Keiba. 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:

Raon First and Choi Bum-hyun will aim to defend the Ttukseom Cup on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

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

Competitive maiden to open with. (10) DAEHEUNG CLASS enters in off his two best performances so far, a 2nd and a 3rd both over this distance when settling back and running on. His style is such that he doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw isn’t a problem and he should be finishing off well. (2) ARGO MUJEOK also comes in following his best performance to date, when 2nd at 1200M on April 16th when handy throughout. He steps up to this distance for the first time and from a good draw, it may well suit. (1) MIGHTY ANN returned from almost six months out to run 3rd over 1200M on April 8th. She should strip fitter for that run and can match or better it here. (9) WONPYEONG SKY and (11) LAST PITCH are among plenty of others with minor money hopes.

Selections(10) Daeheung Class (2) Argo Mujeok (1) Mighty Ann (9) Wonpyeong Sky
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens and not an especially strong race. Despite the wide draw, we’ll side with (11) HAENGUN BARAM, who after a return to trial after an inauspicious February debut, was much better on April 8h when running 2nd at this distance and with a couple of today’s rivals behind her. She settled midfield and finished well and while the time wasn’t quick, it was faster than any of the others here have managed. (3) NAOL DAEWANG likewise wasn’t exactly a speedster when 3rd on debut over this distance on April 9th. He was slowly away but finished well and with some natural improvement, can be in this. (10) DAMJAENGI ARGO was 4th behind Haeungun Baram on April 8th, her second 4th place in a row. She draws wide but with a bit of luck can get a forward or handy position which will put her in the hunt. (5) MILLION PARTY and (2) HEART K are others to consider.

Selections(11) Haengun Baram (3) Naol Daewang (10) Damjaengi Argo (5) Million Party
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

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

Another maiden and (7) LEGEND SOCKS will be favourite. Since returning from eleven months off, he has two 3rd places and a 2nd from three starts back, all at this class and distance and each time racing handy. He’ll be close to the speed again and this time should be going one better. (5) GRAND POWER remains a maiden after fifteen attempts but has four runner-up finishes, including at this class over 1400M two starts back. The drop back in trip may suit here and he should be on pace and in this a long way. (8) MAGLE DAY got his maiden win three starts back at 1300M and has since finished 5th in two tries at this class. He too comes back slightly in trip and should be a factor. (11) FINAL JILJU comes up in class after a maiden win at this distance on April 15th. The time was good, and he can measure up in this company. (3) LEGEND K was never a factor in his latest but has won at the distance and can be given another chance.

Selections(7) Legend Socks (5) Grand Power (8) Magle Day (11) Final Jilju
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 10

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

(7) GIJEOGUI GEUMBIT shapes as a warm favourite here. That’s based on her latest outing which was also her best when 3rd over 1200M on April 23rd. She has raced at this distance before too, posting a time quicker than any of the others have achieved and she won’t need to improve very much to win here. (1) DIA SPIRIT has left himself far too much to do in his races so far but rattled home well for 3rd over 1200M on April 7th. He gets his best draw since his debut; an apprentice keeps the weight down and the extra half furlong can work in his favour. (10) ECTON POWER is yet to finish in the top two in twenty-eight starts. He has though picked up plenty of minor checks including a 4th place last time out when finishing well at 1200M. He should be matching or bettering that here. (6) KELLY QUEEN and (3) RUNNING FASHION others to keep safe.

Selections(7) Gijeogui Geumbit (1) Dia Spirit (10) Ecton Power (6) Kelly Queen
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1200M) Special Weight A / Royal Western India Turf Club Trophy / KRW 150 Million

The first of a lot of trophy races today, this one equivalent to class 3. It’s a tricky puzzle. (7) WOLF PLAY has won two of his latest three with defeat sandwiched between those wins being in the Sports Seoul Classic Trial. His latest was at this distance at class 4 level in a quick time on April 15th and while this is undoubtedly harder, he comes down in the weights and can measure up. (5) YELLOW CAT has eight top-three finishes from ten starts. Most recently she was 2nd over 1400M at class 3 level coming from off the pace but she has won at this distance and from a good draw should be very dangerous. (1) TAP QUALITY carries his fair share of weight here but he is a front runner who is coming back in trip and into a very good gate.  Ultra-consistent, he won’t be far away. (8) FARCIARZ and (3) SAENAE QUEEN among plenty of others who enter in good form and who can have a say.

Selections(7) Wolf Play (5) Yellow Cat (1) Tap Quality (8) Farciarz
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1600M) Special Weight B / KRW 40 Million

(8) TOP FRIEND beat four of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place at class and distance on April 7th when overcoming the widest gate to settle back in the field and then finish strongly. He carries the same weight today but comes into a slightly better barrier, and after three runner-up finishes, he can make the breakthrough at start number eight. (9) HWANGWOO MONEY was 3rd in that race, a length-and-a-half behind Top Friend having led for much of the way. His draw isn’t as good today, but he still looks to be the main danger. (4) ETTEUMI was 5th that day having been slowly away from a wide draw and finding it hard to get a good position. His draw is better today, and he should get closer. (10) WONDERFUL BOBCAT and (2) NOBLE COWBOY are other possibles.

Selections(8) Top Friend (9) Hwangwoo Money (4) Etteumi (10) Wonderful Bobcat
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1600M) Special Weight A / China Horse Industry Association Trophy / KRW 150 Million

This Trophy race is at class 2 level and has attracted the maximum safe field size of ten for the mile start. (6) SPOT FLATTER ran out a very good winner over this distance at class 2 on March 19th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. That was his first start back following an eight-month absence and he was at a big price. He will be much shorter today but can win again. (2) BEST LUCKY was 3rd in that race having settled midfield and run on. Like Spot Flatter, the set weight scale does him no favours, but he won under 56kg at class 3 level over this distance two starts back and from a nice draw can go close. (4) RAON BEAT came home 4th in that March 19th race having been slow away and settling right back. He has the fastest time in the field for the distance. The ultra consistent (9) YONGAM BOSS, as well as (7) ACE HAMSEONG are among those who didn’t go in the March 19th race who can enter the calculations.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 12)

The weekend’s racing gets underway in Busan on Friday with 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. After a couple of fair showings as a juvenile, (9) HONOR LORD has his season curtailed by injury and finally returned, gelded, in March. He ran well on his return for 3rd place over this distance on March 19th and should have come on for that run/ In this field, he should be on pace and can win. (8) RUN TO KING beat a couple of these when coming from off the pace to be 4th over this trip on April 14th. He doesn’t have an apprentice claim today but should be in the mix. First-time starter (7) LADY VADER looked good when winning a trial three weeks ago. This is a nice race to debut in and if she can get a good start, she should be in this a long way. (3) EVERY KING IJI and (4) PIMI others to consider.

Selections(9) Honor Lord (8) Run To King (7) Lady Vader (3) Every King Iji
Next Best4, 10
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. We’re going to need to give (4) MIRACLE ONE a pass on her last start showing over 1300M when from a wide gate, she was never a factor and finished well back. Her prior form at this distance was good though and she draws a much better gate to get to the lead and with Seo Seung-un climbing on, she can be given another chance. (3) B.K. NUMA has been unspectacular but consistent across her seven starts so far. She has a strong finish on her and can sit behind the speed and run on here. (5) QUEEN ROMANCE has shown improvement in her latest couple, most recently when 2nd over this distance on April 14th. She’ll be on pace and can go well again. (7) WONDERFUL SMARTY and (8) MORO other minor money hopes.

Selections(4) Miracle One (3) B.K. Numa (5) Queen Romance (7) Wonderful Smarty
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 10

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

(5) SEOGWI FLASH will be favourite here. She comes in off a strong 3rd place over this distance on March 24th when she went back and ran on strongly. She stopped the clock in a time faster than any of these have managed for the 1300M and while she can leave herself a bit too much to do, she should be too quick here. (6) PURPLE STAR will be second favourite. She enters off a runner-up finish at this distance on March 24th when handy throughout. She should be on the speed here and can be a big danger. Dead-heating for 3rd place in that March 24th race were (7) KICK’N RUSH and (8) FLYING AARON and while the pair of them have a length-and-a-half to find on Purple Star, both can go close again. (4) I’M KING IJI is another in the hunt.

Selections(5) Seogwi Flash (6) Purple Star (7) Kick’N Rush (8) Flying Aaron
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

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

(11) STAR FURY has finished no worse than 4th in four starts so far and enters off a solid 2nd place at class and distance on April 23rd. He was the beaten favourite that day and he does have the challenge of the widest gate, but he doesn’t need to lead and if he can find a handy position, he can win. (3) NICE DAY ran out a winner at class and distance on April 9th when on pace throughout. An apprentice claim means he stays under a light weight and from a good draw, he can be at the front again and a repeat isn’t impossible. (5) SPECIAL HERO has been working back into form with a 4th and two 3rd placed finishes from her latest three. She is nicely in here and can maintain that run, probably sitting behind the speed, and running on. (8) FANTASTIC WOMAN was an unexpected winner at this distance on April 7th and while she comes up in class, she warrants respect. (4) MULTI HIT another to keep safe.

Selections(11) Star Fury (3) Nice Day (5) Special Hero (8) Fantastic Woman
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

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

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