March’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race program from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Speed Young won the Breeders’ Cup in December but didn’t begun his 3-year-old campaign well. He will attempt to return to winning ways at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
March kicks off with a maiden for three-year-olds and a couple come in looking ready to win. (9) DALLILLAEYO has been knocking on the door across his five starts, culminating with 2nd place on his latest over this distance on February 10th when he settled right back and worked home strongly. He has as good a chance as any here and the unfashionable jockey booking may mean he is at bigger odds than he should. Disputing favourite status will be (8) DIA BOSS. He too comes in off a 2nd place with a much-improved performance over this trip on January 29th when racing on pace throughout. He doesn’t have the benefit of as big an apprentice claim this time but he should go close. (7) NEOGA CHOEGO was 3rd on debut before running 7th behind Dallillaeyo on his reappearance. He comes down 3kg in the weights with last week’s treble winning rider Gwon O-chan aboard and he can make further progress here. (10) PINHOLE EYE and (12) SEOGWI FLASH both come in off last start 3rd place finishes and can aim for the places again.
Selections
(9) Dallillaeyo (8) Dia Boss (7) Neoga Choego (10) Pinhole Eye
Next Best
12, 3
Fast Start
7, 8, 10, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies. (12) MIRACLE ONE is set to be a warm favourite based on her last start 3rd in a similar race over this distance on February 3rd when she overcame the same wide draw to get to the speed and beat a few of today’s rivals in the process. She may need a touch of luck at the start once more but she should prove too good. There are three debut-makers and among them (3) MASTER ROAD looks to have a fair shout first-up. She was on pace in her trial, crossing the line 2nd in a decent enough time and from a good draw, she can get to the lead again and be in this a long way. (11) SUCCESS TIME has a 4th and a 3rd in two starts so far, most recently at this distance. She came from off the pace last time so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and she can continue to make progress. (4) SOLEDAD and (10) FANTASTIC WOMAN others in the hunt.
Selections
(12) Miracle One (3) Master Road (11) Success Time (4) Soledad
Next Best
10, 6
Fast Start
1, 3, 10, 12
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
(5) SUCCESSFUL ran a solid 3rd on debut over 1000M back on December 23rd racing on pace throughout. It’s taken him a while to line up again but he looks very nicely in here, the additional furlong can suit and he is the one to beat. (11) DOCTOR CUCKOO has hinted at ability with back-to-back 4th place finishes from his latest two outings. With an apprentice claim he comes down in the weights here and should be aiming for an even better finish today. The solitary debut-maker is (10) LAND BANK. He put in a fair performance in his trial and couldn’t hope for a softer race to debut in. The jockey/trainer combination ensures that he will get plenty of backing. (9) UNJU MACH has mixed her form so far but has two 4th places and along with (3) WONDERFUL DIGGER, can enter the calculations here.
Selections
(5) Successful (11) Doctor Cuckoo (10) Land Bank (9) Unju Mach
Next Best
3, 4
Fast Start
3, 4, 5, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only in this competitive race. We’ll side with (2) PAN STAR, who comes up in class following her maiden win over 1300M back in December when making all. That was a win had been coming as she had made progress across all her starts so far and while she has been away for twelve weeks, from a nice draw and under a light weight, she can potentially lead all the way again. (9) GOHEUNG CLASS remains a maiden but comes up in class following a pair of runner-up finishes as well as a 3rd at class 5 level. She might have won last time were it not for a slow start and despite this ostensibly being harder, there isn’t much to fear here, and she can measure up at a distance that may suit. (6) SKY JEJUHYANG overcame the widest gate on February 10th to run 4th over 1300M. She draws better here, can be on pace, and can go close. (1) STATICE was an improbable winner of that February 10th race. Lightning may not strike twice but she does warrant more respect today and along with (10) WONDERFUL ANDOVER, the latter better than her latest two suggest and who trialled up somewhat smartly in February, can enter the calculations.
Selections
(2) Pan Star (9) Goheung Class (6) Sky Jejuhyang (1) Statice
Next Best
10, 11
Fast Start
2, 6, 9, 10
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Korea Cup and Sprint champions Winner’s Man and Eoma Eoma both make the 2023 debuts on Sunday. The Cup winner and Horse of the Year Winner’s Man goes in the class 1 race 6 at Busan while Eoma Eoma makes his seasonal debut in the class 1 race 11 at Seoul. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:05 to 15:40. Here are the previews:
Eoma Eoma will race for the first time in 2023 although Moon Se-young doesn’t get the call-up (Pic: Ross Holburt/KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens open the Sunday proceedings. (4) NINE EAGLE is probably going to be one of the shortest priced favourites of the day, having run 2nd on debut over the distance o January 8th, leading for most of the way. He should have come on for that run, he should be on pace again, and this time can go all the way. Nothing else in the race has finished any better than 6th. (7) COLITAS finished in exactly that position on debut in that same January 8th race behind Nine Eagle. He was slowly away that day and went around at the back before running on and should be better for the experience. (2) LUCKY BOUNCE has raced twice, both times well backed after a trial win. Moon Se-young gets back aboard and punters are likely to remain faithful for at lease a place. (8) CHONGAL COLONEL and (10) CLUB D others who could potentially improve.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. (5) ARBELOUR is the pick, having improved at start number two on February 5th. Racing on pace and running 2nd over this distance. Without an apprentice claim, he comes up a full 4kg in the weights but from a good draw he can get an easy lead and can prove too good. The main danger is (12) RAON STRONG. He debuted in that February 5th race and ran a creditable 4th behind Arbelour, having settled in the middle of the pack. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and he should have derived benefit from that run. As for the debut-makers, (9) TAEWANG SINGI was on pace in his trial and crossed the line in 3rd place in a good time. (8) QUEEN OF JOY similar looked promising in her heat and is capable of a bold showing first up. Returning to the experience ones, (7) GREY CHAMP improved at start number two and can continue to make progress here.
Selections
(5) Arbelour (12) Raon Strong (9) Taewang Singi (8) Queen Of Joy
Next Best
7, 11
Fast Start
3, 5, 9, 12
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Maiden three-year-old fillies and it’s hard to go too far past (3) SARYEONI TYCHE. She’s run 3rd and 4th in tow starts so far, sitting handy over 1000M and then settling back at 1200M. She draws nicely, the additional half furlong should suit, and she probably won’t need to improve very much to win. (8) GANGCHEOL YEOGEOL has shown good consistency in her latest three appearances with a 4th place over this trip the most recent. She can settle in midfield here and has a strong finish on her. (9) HERO QUEEN was a touch disappointing at her latest start on January 28th when failing to run on. She had finished off very nicely in her preceding two outings though and in this company is worth another chance today. (7) BEAUTIFUL MELODY and (1) SMARTY GLORY others who may improve.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
Competitive maiden with a few looking ready to win. (4) PEGACORN is one of them as he comes in after a career to date best of 2nd place over 1400M on January 27th when settling handy, dropping back and then running on, only going down by a head. The further step up in trip can suit and he has a good chance. (9) K GOLD BAR is another of those in the “ready to win” category. He enters off a solid 4th place over 1300M at the end of January he too may like the chance of a longer distance today. (5) HAMAN BAEKISAN is one of only three of the twelve to have prior experience of racing over a mile. He settled right back out of the widest gate on February 3rd before running on strongly for 3rd. The same apprentice enables him to carry the same light weight here and he can be running into some money again. (11) WONDERFUL CHANCE has five-lengths to make up on Pegacorn and also carries more weight than he did on January 27th but, along with (8) ADELE HORANGI, warrants consideration as a place chance.
Selections
(4) Pegacorn (9) K Gold Bar (5) Haman Baekisan (11) Wonderful Chance
Next Best
8, 1
Fast Start
3, 4, 9, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
Another maiden and a couple of prolific non-winners have solid claims to finally get on the board here. (3) EUREKA stepped up to 1700M on January 28th and beat several of these on his way to a career-best 2nd place racing handy throughout, although well beaten by a good winner. He carries the same weight, draws a similarly favourable gate, and can go one better. (7) HOUYHNHNM was 3rd in that race at what was start number seventeen. He is in the best form of his career having run 2nd at the start prior, also at this distance. He settles back and runs on and he has as good a chance as any here. (8) CAMINO comes up in trip having led and ultimately finishing 3rd on his second start on Christmas Day. He comes up in the weights without an apprentice claim today but should be competitive in this company. (10) FIRST CHOUX and (1) SSANG OK RU among others in the minor money hunt.
Selections
(3) Eureka (7) Houyhnhnm, (8) Camino (10) First Choux
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 4, 8, 10
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only and (5) THUNDER FURY looks to be the one to beat here. She’s only finished outside the top-four on one occasion and enters off a close runner-up finish in a very similar race over class and distance on January 27th when settling midfield and running on well. She draws nicely here to stalk the early leaders and can prove too strong. (1) GRAPHENE RAP WORLD had a poor day at the office in the same race when showing prominently early before weakening. Her form before that was good and she may have come on for what was her first try at tis distance and from the inside gate she can lead again and stay in it longer. (7) DOCTOR TIFFANY was a good winner over 1000M on debut in January before being stepped up to a mile for her first try at this class on February 5th. She showed at the front but ultimately finished 6th and may find today’s assignment more suitable. (6) WORLD CLASS CAT and (3) DOCTOR KONGSUNI other place chances.
Selections
(5) Thunder Fury (1) Graphene Rap World (7) Doctor Tiffany (6) World Class Cat
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
1, 7, 10, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
A competitive race. (4) JILJU DAESE ran 2nd on debut before getting her maiden win at start number two over this distance at the end of last October. She hasn’t raced since but looked well enough when not asked to do too much in a trial last week. She is up in class from since we last saw her but has every chance of making a big impact first up here. (7) LONDON SKY come sin off a 2nd and a 4th place both at this class and both at 1200M. He likes to settle back and run on and with Lim Gi-won climbing aboard today, he will have plenty of backers. (1) ROCK IMPACT comes up in class after a good win over this distance on January 28th when coming from off the pace. He comes down 2kg in the weights, draws well, and can measure up in this company. (6) HUIMANG CHAMP and up in class (12) SAINT LUCCA among others to keep safe.
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 9 races from 11:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (5) ROAD TO GLORY ran a fair 5th on debut over 1000M before coming back on January 27th at 1200M and settling right at the back of the field before finishing strongly for 2nd. He was well beaten by a good winner but it was a solid effort and with the slight step up in trip, he can be winning today. (7) RAON THE HARLEY has a 2nd and a 3rd from two outings to date, both at 1200M, the first time racing on pace the second in midfield and running on. In this company, he should be at the front early and is the main danger. (12) SPECIALIST has raced fairly enough in two outings to date and was an improved 5th in the most recent of them. He has the fastest final furlong time among these so the wide draw may not be a problem and he can continue to improve. (8) SKY SHOT and (10) SILK FASHION ROAD other potential improvers.
Selections
(5) Road To Glory (7) Raon The Harley (12) Specialist (8) Sky Shot
Next Best
10, 3
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 10
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
A maiden restricted to three-year-old fillies with four of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll go with (3) THEIA who has raced adequately for 5th and 6th in two prior appearances and has recorded the fastest time among those here who have already tackled this distance. In both of those she was drawn wide, but she comes into a much better gate here, and she can win. She will be disputing favourite status with (6) B.K. GALLOP. She’s been on pace in both outings so far and led until the final furlong on her second start on January 27th, ultimately finishing 3rd ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. She will be on pace again and will surely be in this a very long way. (9) GIJEOGUI GEUMBIT was 4th in that same race. She has two-lengths to find on B.K. Gallop but she improved from her debut and can improve again here. (10) DYMANIC WINNER and (11) GREEN LEGEND are others who should have some natural improvement from their respective debuts.
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
A regular maiden here and the form isn’t great with the twelve of them having thirty-two prior starts between them but not a single top-three finish. (11) SAEKDAL FIGHTER does have a couple of 4th places, recorded at this distance and at 1300M in back-to-back starts in December and January. His times have been fair, including on his latest when tried over 1400M two weeks ago and he has as good a chance as any here. (10) AQUA MAGIC also has a brace of 4th places. They were both over this distance and she also has the fastest time of any of these for the 1200M. She likes to race handy so may need some luck from the wide draw, but she should have a big say here. (1) GANGSEO JEORYEONG raced once without distinction last autumn. She re-qualified at the beginning of this month and then went through a second voluntary trial two weeks ago when he stopped the clock in a very encouraging time. He draws nicely and could be much better this time around. (8) WORLD POINT and (5) WONDERFUL CHACHA the others who have hinted at ability
Selections
(11) Saekdal Fighter (10) Aqua Magic (1) Gangseo Jeoryeong (8) World Point
Next Best
5, 7
Fast Start
1, 3, 10, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(3) HANGANG SAVER is the one to beat here. His win came at this distance three starts back when making all and he enters having run a good 4th in a fast time at this class on January 13th. From a nice draw he can get an early lead and he may take some getting past. (11) MY MANTRA was an all the way winner on January 29th having previously run 2nd. She comes up in class here and while she draws a touch wide for comfort, her early speed can see her to a good position and she has every chance of measuring up at this level. The wildcard is (2) CUTE GUY. He raced three times between March and June last year finishing no worse than 4th and secured a class 6 win over 1400M. He has been out for seven months but looked well when trialling up at the end of January and a bold first-up showing is possible. (1) JEONGMUN COBIT needs a line drawn through his latest in December but has placed at class and distance and can be given another chance here. (5) CHEONHA NUMBER ONE another in the placing frame.
Selections
(3) Hangang Saver (11) My Mantra (2) Cute Guy (1) Jeongmun Cobit
Next Best
5, 10
Fast Start
2, 3, 9, 11
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Tricky race. (10) TAP STAR returned from almost six months out to run 3rd in a fast race over 1200M on January 13th. He should have derived benefit from that run and he doesn’t need to lead so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. This is his first time tackling 1400M but Seo Seung-un remains aboard and he has every chance. (1) SPECIAL HERO enters off a very close 4th place in what was a tight finish over 1300M at this class on February 3rd. That was an uptick on her recent form but she draws the same good gate today and continues under a light weight. Speaking of light weights, an apprentice claim enables (2) RUBY STORM to come down a full 5kg from his latest effort, which was an unsuccessful tilt at 1800M on January 27th when weakening in the straight. Prior to that he recorded back-to-back 3rd places over this trip and today should be much more to his liking. (7) CHEONMA HASEO has won just once in thirty-eight starts but he knows how to pick up a cheque at this level and will be running on late. (8) DOCTOR PENTAGON among plenty of others capable of challenging for minor money.
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 9-race program from 11:00 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. The favourite will be (4) CHEERFUL LIFE, who having run 5th on debut over 1000M, stepped up to this trip at start number two on January 15th and ran 2nd having led for most of the way around. He draws nicely to be on pace again and this time will be expected to go all the way. (7) SKY MOUNTAIN is the most credible danger. She’s bee on pace in both he starts so far finishing 4th and 5th at 1000M and 1300M, recoding good times on both occasions. She’ll be up with the speed and in this a long way again. (1) LEMON BULPAE was green and slow on debut in December but has since been back to trial where he delivered a much more assured (and quicker) performance. If he brings that form to the races, he can be in the finish here. (8) MORO and (3) SEONGSIL STAR others in the money hunt.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies here. The one to beat is (2) HERE THE QUEEN who was a solid 2nd when stepped up to this distance on what was her second appearance on January 15th when slowly away before running on well. She draws a much better gate this time and the same apprentice jockey keeps her carried weight low. She should go one better. (4) B.K. NUMA hinted that she may be figuring things out when an improved 5th in a decent time at this trip on January 15th. She beat a couple of these in the process and can maintain her upward trajectory here. (5) MASARANGGIL settled back in the field on debut at this distance on January 27th before running on well for 2nd. The time wasn’t fast, but she should have derived benefit from the run and can be in the mix again here. (12) NEXT MARINE and (11) AMAZING MOVE are done no favours by the draw, but both look to have potential to improve.
Selections
(2) Here The Queen (4) B.K. Numa (5) Masaranggil (12) Next Marine
Next Best
11, 9
Fast Start
1, 3, 6, 12
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 25 Million
Tricky one but given the paucity of form of the opposition, it is tempting to go with the solitary debut-maker (9) ACE A MOCA. She was close to the pace in her trial and stopped the clock in a fair time. Seo Seung-un is aboard and there looks to be plenty to like about the four-year-old. (5) VELOCIRAPTOR has shown steady progress across five starts so far with a close 5th over 1300M on January 13th her best so far when she was ridden much closer than usual. She draws well to be handy again and should be aiming for another best finish to date. (2) ECTON POWER struggled over a mile last time out but went into that race following a 3rd and a 5th. He carries a light weight with an apprentice claim and may not be far away. (1) BINGO MAN has been back to trial since his latest – when he was first-up after seven months out – and should be better today. (12) WONDERFUL SMARTY another who in this company can aim for minor money.
Selections
(9) Ace A Moca (5) Velociraptor (2) Ecton Power (1) Bingo Man
Next Best
12, 3
Fast Start
7, 8, 10, 12
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(10) SUCCESS MOCCA got his maiden win at start number two over this distance on January 8th, overcoming the widest gate to get to the front and lead every step of the way, scoring by as many lengths as he pleased. He is up in class here and draws a touch wider than ideal again, but both can be overcome, and he is the one to beat. (2) HANEUL SEUNGNI was slowly away from a wide draw on his first try at this class on January 13th. He had been on pace in all his previous starts and from a much better draw, he can get an easier run here and looks the main danger. (11) EVER STAR beat both Success Mocca and Haneul Seungni when winning at class 6 level over 1000M back on November 4th. This is her first start since and while she is done no favours by the draw, she can measure up in this company under a feather weight. (6) WORLD FLOWER is yet to win in twenty-four but has twelve top-five finishes including a last start 2nd and can be in the hunt. (7) TAEYANG EUTTEUM among other place chances.
Selections
(10) Success Mocca (2) Haneul Seungni (11) Ever Star (6) World Flower
Next Best
7, 3
Fast Start
2, 3, 8, 10
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(9) RELEASE EDITION has been working towards a second win and comes in off a runner-up finish on January 13th over this distance in what was a phenomenally quick time, albeit on a very wet and fast track. Despite the draw, in this company he should be on or close to the pace and if he runs to his best may take some beating. (1) HAMPYEONG IS BACK made all over this distance to get his maiden win at the third time of asking on January 1300M. He come sup in class here but is well-weighted and nicely drawn and he looks to be the testing material. The form drops off precipitously after those two. (2) CHEONGMA YEONGUNG has got too far back in his three most recent outings. He does though have a runner-up finish to his name at this class when ridden closer to the pace and from a good draw and in modest company, may get an easier early run this time. (7) KING BOSS and (5) THUNDER CROWN others who may trouble the scorers at their best.
Selections
(9) Release Edition (1) Hampyeong Is Back (2) Cheongma Yeongung (7) King Boss
Next Best
5, 3
Fast Start
1, 5, 7, 9
Busan Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Competitive race. (12) YEOSU FIGHTER overcame a similarly wide draw and then a slow start to run 2nd, admittedly well beaten by a good winner, at class and distance on January 29th. He will need a touch of luck at the start but if he breaks cleanly and finds a good position, he has winning claims here. (8) YEONGGWANGUI ACE is the main danger and possible favourite. He made all to get his maiden win at class 6 level over 1200M two starts back before running 5th on his first try at this level when settling midfield and running on. He comes up to this distance for the first time but can be on pace here and should be in this a long way. (10) BACKTOTHELEGEND ran 5th behind Yeosu Fighter on that January 29th race. That was his first go at this distance having won at his previous start over 1200M and he should go close again. (5) GOLDEN POINT and (1) QUALITY QUEEN are others to keep safe.
Selections
(12) Yeosu Fighter (8) Yeonggwangui Ace (10) Backtothelegend (5) Golden Point
Next Best
1, 6
Fast Start
1, 3, 8, 12
Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(2) SEUNGNIMAGIC KING won his first two races before suffering his first setback on his first try at this class and distance on January 27th when settling midfield and the being shuffled further back before running on strongly for 2nd. That experience could have benefitted him, and he is strongly favoured to return to winning ways today. (3) SEOBU BIGSTEP has mixed his form a little in five starts so far. He led over a mile last time out on what was his first try at this class but should be better today back at a distance he has won at and with a good draw and a light weight. (5) CAPTAIN GOLD is yet to finish any worse than 4th in seven appearances. He likes to race on pace and while he may once again find one or two too quick, he should be maintaining that consistent record here. (7) MENIFEE SONG beat Captain Gold when winning at class and distance on January 6th when settling midfield and running on. He comes up 3kg in the weights but warrants respect here. Up in class but down in weight (6) RUN AND GUN is one of plenty of others with at least placing chances.
Selections
(2) Seungnimagic King (3) Seobu Bigstep (5) Captain Gold (7) Menifee Song
Next Best
6, 7
Fast Start
3, 5, 10, 11
Busan Race 8: Class 4 (1800M) Special Weight B / KRW 60 Million
(5) KING GRACE doesn’t exactly win out of turn but it’s rare for him to be very far away. He enters off a close 2nd at class and distance on January 13th when settling right at the back of the field before steadily improving and almost getting there and while he comes up 1kg in the weights, he is the one to beat today. (8) MACH WONDER won back-to-back races in November and December to be rapidly promoted to this class. He then ran 5th on his first try at this level and at this distance on January 29th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He is nicely weighted here and can be competitive. (9) GEUMA INFINITE comes in off a runner-up finish over a mile at this level just two weeks ago. He is up in the weights today but still looks nicely in. (6) DEMON SPY and the up in class (10) NEW CROWN are others to keep safe.
Busan Race 9: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million
(7) GEUMA PASSIONATE saw his unbeaten record come to an end when 3rd behind Again Touch at class and distance on January 13th. He did though beat several of today’s rivals and while he comes up slightly in weight, he will be favoured to return to winning ways here. (6) SANGSEUNG BOY was one of those beaten in that January 13th race. He is a winner at this class over 1400M and in this company can be close to the pace and in this a long way. (1) YEONGGWANGUI STAR was 4th in that January 13th race. Two starts back he made all to win over this distance on his reappearance after eleven months out and under a light weight and from a great draw, he must be considered. (3) WINNING DANCER and (8) SPICE ECTON among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(7) Geuma Passionate (6) Sangseung Boy (1) Yeonggwangui Star (3) Winning Dancer
There is a bumper day of racing on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:40 to 18:00 and six at Busan from 11:05 to 15:40. There are no Listed or Graded races but plenty of competitive action to get stuck into. Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. (5) APEX did nothing on debut but significantly improved when stepped up to this trip in a similar all-filly race on January 15th, settling back before running on for 3rd in snowy conditions. She can be ridden further forward here and today can be her day. (9) KKUMUI SUNGAN was a quick 2nd on debut over 1000M before weakening having led on her first try at this distance on January 8th. She was favourite that day and with Moon Se-young remaining aboard, will probably start as the market leader here too. (3) J.Y. COCO put in a solid effort on debut to run 4th of eleven over 1200M when settling midfield and finishing off well. She should have derived benefit for that run and can match or better today. (8) AREUMDAUN SAI and the solitary debut-maker (7) BEAUTIFUL MELODY best of the rest.
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with three of the twelve racing for the first time. (6) MULTI HIT looks the one to beat having shown steady improvement across three outings to date, culminating in a 3rd place last time out of January 15th when settling handy and finishing well over this distance. The time was significantly quicker than any of his rivals here have managed and he won’t really need to improve in order to win. In a race where the exposed form is so patchy, any first-timer who trialled well needs to be given a chance. (4) JORDAN FIGHTING fits the bill having run 3rd in his heat in a good time, showing close to the place. He draws well and the favourite aside, couldn’t pick a softer race to debut in. (3) HANEUL BULPAE beat a couple of these on his way to a fair 6th on debut on January 8th, having been very slowly away and last until the final furlong when he started to make up good ground. That puts him in the frame here. (11) JEONGMUN SPECTER and first-timer (1) OK DREAM, who led a trial, others to keep safe.
Selections
(6) Multi Hit (4) Jordan Fighting (3) Haneul Bulpae (11) Jeongmun Specter
Next Best
1, 7
Fast Start
1, 6, 9, 11
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with four of the twelve racing for the first time. There are two standouts both of who will need to be forgiven slightly lacklustre latest outings. (11) MAESTRA finished in 3rd place on both her first two starts, both at 1000M She was favourite for her first try at this distance on December 18th and she led until weakening for 6th. She should have come on for that experience and can get it right today. (4) HANGANG POWER stepped up to 1300M on his last start on January 7th, racing in midfield throughout and finishing 6th. Going on his previous 3rd place over 1000M though suggests he has a bit of speed about him and he too gets another chance today. (6) MY ONE improved at start number three running 4th over this distance and stopping the clock in a good time. A repeat will put him in the mix here (3) HALLSTATT and (9) SEONGEUN CROWN among others to consider.
Selections
(11) Maestra (4) Hangang Power (6) My One (3) Hallstatt
Next Best
9, 12
Fast Start
7, 10, 11, 12
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(3) JEOLDAE BOSS gets the nod here having been knocking on the door across his four starts so far. His latest, on January 13th, was his best so far when he settled midfield and steadily improved up to 2nd on the line having overcome a wide draw. That was over 1300M and there is no reason why the additional half furlong can’t suit. (7) CHONGAL CHARM put in a good showing when on pace over 1300M on December 11th and finishing a close 2nd. The same apprentice keeps the weight light, and he can put in a bold showing again. (8) TOP FRIEND came from well off the pace to run 2nd over 1300M on January 13th. He has got a long way back in each of his starts so far, but the additional half-furlong today may be to his benefit. (4) POWER RIDE and (9) SAEKDAL FIGHTER among others in the hunt.
Selections
(3) Jeoldae Boss (7) Chongal Charm (8) Top Friend (4) Power Ride
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
2, 3, 9, 10
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Not a strong maiden so we can accept (11) MIR POINT’s 5th place on Christmas Eve when he used up plenty of petrol coming out of the widest gate and getting to the speed. The time before he had run 2nd over 1000M. The draw is not ideal again but against this opposition, with a touch of luck at the start, he can win. (4) CUPID WOW has a 3rd place to his name over this distance. He draws well to be on pace here and he should be in this a long way. (12) GOLDEN LUCKY will need a line drawn through her latest over 1300M when knocking up very quickly and only beating two. If we go on her start prior to that though, she ran a good 2nd at this distance and she can be given another chance here. (9) DONGTEUJA WAY and (7) HIGH BORN ME others who can compete for the minor money.
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday where there are 9 races from 11:00 to 18:00:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Debut-maker (6) BLACK MAMBA trialled very nicely, settling off the pace and then running on strongly to cross the line in front in a good time on a very wet track without being asked for very much. First up at 1300M should suit, and if he brings that form to the races, he has every chance. (12) UNJU OREUM was much improved when stepped up to 1200M for start number two on January 13th, settling midfield, then dropping further back before running on well for 2nd. She was a long way behind a good winner but the additional half furlong can be to her benefit and the wide draw shouldn’t matter. (1) DALLILLAEYO has been knocking at the door in his latest couple with a 3rd place at 1200M followed by a 4th when tried at a mile. He draws nicely on the inside today and should be a threat. (4) HAERANG THE ONE and (3) FLYING AARON among others with placing chances.
Selections
(6) Black Mamba (12) Unju Oreum (1) Dallillaeyo (4) Haerang The One
Next Best
3, 2
Fast Start
2, 9, 10, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies. (7) GOLDEN WAVE will be a warm favourite, having run on an pace 2nd on debut over 1200M on January 6th, well beaten by a good winner but having had to overcome gate eleven. She had previously shown well in a trial and with some natural improvement from her debut, may take some beating here. (10) U PING is done no favours by the draw but should have enough speed about her to get a forward position. She has been on pace in both her 2nd and 3rd place from her two starts to date and shapes as the main danger to the favourite here. (11) AQUA MAGIC ran 4th behind Golden Wave in that January 6th race, having sat handy throughout. She is another not favoured by the draw but can go close. (6) HAPPY TAEYANG and (1) UNMATCHED are potential improvers.
Selections
(7) Golden Wave (10) U Ping (11) Aqua Magic (6) Happy Taeyang
Next Best
1, 3
Fast Start
6, 7, 10, 11
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Standard maiden here and while (6) WIDAEHAN SEONTAEK remains scoreless from eleven starts, he come sin off his best finish to date when 2nd over 1200M on December 18th when settling midfield and running on. The engagement of a 4kg claiming apprentice means he carries even less weight this time, and today could well be his day. (12) PLAY THE INDY also has a runner-up finish to his name, achieved two starts back over this distance. He weakened having led over 1300M at his latest outing last month but while he does draw wide, can be given another chance here. (1) DOCTOR SHARK is yet to be in the top two but has finished between 3rd and 5th in no fewer than six of her seven starts to date. She comes back in trip today and should be close once more. (10) WONDERFUL APPEAL and (4) TWOTWO FLYING among others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(6) Widaehan Seontaek (12) Play The Indy (1) Doctor Shark (10) Wonderful Appeal
Next Best
4, 5
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 12
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
(1) SPECIAL ROAD is yet to finish any worse than 3rd from three outings to date and got her win at class 6 level two starts back when making all over this distance in an all-filly maiden in a good time. She then ran a front running 3rd when stepped up to 1300M for her first try at this class, again in filly company. She draws a great gate, carries a light weight and has every chance of leading all the way again. (7) BUDDY BUDDY made all on his second start to win over 1000M before finishing 5th of eight in the Gimhae Mayor’s Trophy for juveniles. He weakened late over 1400M on his most recent start n January 6th but should find this more suitable. (2) BEOLGYOUI KKUM is another all the way winner, his coming at start number two over this distance. He then led on his first try at this class over 1400M just two weeks ago, ultimately finishing in 4th place and is another who may appreciate the step back in trip. (5) DIABLO QUEEN and (8) PHANTOM ACE – the latter up in class here but one of few fancies who should be happy to take a sit and avoid a speed duel – others to consider.
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies and mares only here and this lot really know how to mix their form so we need to catch one on a good day. That could be (12) SKY JEJUHYANG who seems to alternate good performances with poor ones. Her latest fell into the latter category but if we go on her showing two starts back when runner-up at class and distance then she has to be in with a chance. She does carry more weight than that day and has drawn wide but against this modest opposition, has as good a chance as any. (4) QUEEN OF SPIRIT is another who needs a line drawn through her latest effort but before that ran 4th and 2nd at 1300M and 1400M, both at this class. She tends to get a bit far back but similar runs to those two put her in with a winning chance here. (3) A. ONCE came out of gate ten and from off the pace to run 4th at class and distance on January 27th. She comes out of a better gate here and under a light weight, can be in the hunt. (1) KF OGONG and (5) TITAN K others who can place on their day.
There is Sunday racing at both Seoul (11 races from 10:40 to 18:00) and Busan (6 races from 11:05 to 15:40). Here are the previews:
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener. (8) META BLADE will be the favourite. Having run 2nd on debut over 1000M, she followed up with 4th and 3rd in two starts over today’s trip, last time out coming from midfield to finish off well. She can settle back again here and should be too strong. (4) JAEWOO SIDAE comes in off a promising 3rd place at this distance on January 8th. She’s not shown a whole lot in terms of speed but draws nicely here and an apprentice keeps her weight light. (10) YUKWAEHAN SARANG is done no favours by the draw but ran 4th, just half a length behind Meta Blade in November over 1200M. She followed up with a 5th on Christmas Eve and while she may need a touch of luck at the start, she has claims. (6) ÉCLAIR STAR and (7) CANDY GLOW among plenty of others in at least the placing frame.
Selections
(8) Meta Blade (4) Jaewoo Sidae (10) Yukwaehan Sarang (6) Éclair Star
Next Best
7, 5
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 10
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with five of the ten racing for the very first time. (5) GOOD MAGIC will be favourite, based upon her runner-up finish on debut over this distance on January 8th when she sat just behind the early speed and while well beaten by a good winner, she stopped the clock in a decent time and with some natural improvement, should prove too good. The main dangers lurk in the first-time starters. (6) SINHAE MANGCHI went through three trials, winning the most recent of them in January when on pace throughout. If he brings that form to the races, he will go very close. (7) RAON STRONG looked well when 2nd in a trail late last November. He too can put in a bold showing first-up. Also looking good in trials was (10) BEOMHAN GOLD, who won a heat on January 7th when handy and running on. The draw isn’t ideal but with a touch of luck, he can be in this too. Returning to those with experience, (2) GLOBAL SARANG is perhaps the one with most potential to improve.
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with three of the ten racing for the first time. The only one who has shown anything resembling form is (6) JUMONG CHEONHA and he accordingly will be the odds-on favourite He was 4th on debut and then 2nd at start number two, both over 1000M. He hasn’t appeared for fourteen weeks, and he does come up in trip but if he runs at anything like his previous level, he won’t be beaten here. (1) RAON HOLIDAY has finished no better than 7th across four starts so far. He has run some fair times though from a good draw, won’t need to improve much to place here. Of the first-time starters, (5) THEME TANSAENG trialled up the best crossing the line 4th of seven back in November. That form in this race will see him close. (2) SSEULMO and (8) ARGO SMILE others who could potentially improve.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies and it’s a competitive race. (8) GOHEUNG CLASSS has raced three times, notching a 2nd place over 1000M before finishing 3rd on her first try over 1200M on January 6th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She can lead or settle back and run on and the additional half furlong may well be to her benefit. (1) DUBAI PYEONGJEONG has made steady progress across her latest three appearances, culminating in a 2nd place over this distance on January 8th when overcoming the widest gate. Her style has been to settle back and run on, but she gets a great draw this time and can be a big danger. (10) FLYING DIA has run fairly for two 4th place finishes from her two prior appearances and should be aiming to match or better that here. (6) FLYING TOUCH and (9) MOVIE MORE among others with potential to improve.
Selections
(8) Goheung Class (1) Dubai Pyeongjeong (10) Flying Dia (6) Flying Touch
Next Best
9, 2
Fast Start
3, 8, 9, 11
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(6) SUPREME STAR will be expected to break through here. She hasn’t finished outside of the top-five across six prior outings and comes in off a smart 3rd place over this distance on January 7th when settling midfield and finishing well. She has run consistent times on her best form as shown so far, she can win. The main danger is (4) UNICORN KINGDOM His best finish so far is a 2nd place over 1000M two starts back but ran fairly on his first try at this distance on December 17th. He draws nicely here and should get an easy run to the speed and be in this a long way. The form falls off a bit after those two but (7) FOUR ACE enters off back-to-back 4th places, both at this distance and beating a couple of these in the latest of them. She should be aiming to match or better in this company. (2) ARGO MUJEOK has a 3rd place to his name two starts back and draws well here. (3) ARCH RIVER another with potential to improve.
Selections
(6) Supreme Star (4) Unicorn Kingdom (7) Four Ace (2) Argo Mujeok
Next Best
3, 9
Fast Start
1, 3, 4, 9
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(4) DOCTOR TIFFANY was an all the way winner over 1200M on January 6th, winning by plenty. She comes up in class and boldly up in trip, but she comes down in the weights, draws very nicely, and she could win again. It won’t be easy though. (8) BARAMBARAM’s only disappointment to date came in the Breeders’ Cup champion juvenile race in December when slowly away and failing to get a foothold. He has two positive runs over 1400M though and the step up in trip may suit (10) GREEN PAPAGO is a model of consistency who is rarely far away and has beaten a few of these across her latest few outings. She should beat plenty again, (6) CHEONMA HASEO beat Barambaram when the pair ran 2nd and 4th respectively over 140M on January 13th. He doesn’t exactly win out of turn, but he knows who to pick up a minor cheque and has done so at class and distance on more than one occasion. (3) ROCK AND ROLL is up in class and in trip following a maiden win at start two over 1300M on January 6th. He comes down in the weights and draws well.
Selections
(4) Doctor Tiffany (8) Barambaram (10) Green Papago (6) Cheonma Haseo
Next Best
3, 11
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 9
Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
It’s hard to go too far past (8) WONDERFUL TIZZY here. He ran a good 2nd – albeit well beaten by a very good winner – over 1200M two start s back, before finishing an adequate 5th of ten in a slow race over 1300M on January 8th. Without the benefit of an apprentice claim today, he comes up 3kg in the weights but that’s balanced by Antonio climbing aboard, and in this company, he should be able to get a prominent position early and potentially lead all the way. (6) GOLD KAISER is yet to finish in the top two but has finished between 3rd and 5th on five occasions from her ten starts and that’s enough to put her in the frame here. Similarly (5) BEST PLAN has two 3rd places to her name, most recently three starts back in a good time over 1300M. Like every other runner, she comes up to the 1400M for the first time and she can be close. (10) MONEY STONE and (1) JANGHEUNG CLASS, the latter who perhaps could be most suited to the step up in trip, are others who can enter the calculations.
Selections
(8) Wonderful Tizzy (6) Gold Kaiser (5) Best Plan (10) Money Stone
Next Best
1, 3
Fast Start
3, 8, 9, 11
Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
(1) WIND WINNER comes in having missed the top-four on only one of nine occasions so far. His latest saw him run 3rd over this class and distance when emerging from the widest gate on January 8th then racing midfield and running on. He carries the same weight today and from a much better draw, can win. Disputing favourite status will be (11) STAR MATTA. He too has been super-consistent and enters off a class and distance win on January 13th when prominent throughout and beating three of today’s rivals. The engagement of an apprentice jockey means he carries less weight this time and while the draw is a touch wider than ideal, he has every chance. (2) B.J. CHIEF was 6th behind Star Matta in that January 13th race having worked hard to get to the lead from the widest gate. The draw is much kinder today and the same apprentice keeps his carried weight light. (4) YONGCHEON comes up in class and in distance after a good win over a mile – beating B. J. Chief – in early December. He can measure up in this company. (10) SINJIN GANGHO another in the minor money frame.
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
(6) BEST SUN was a winner on debut over 1000M last October and comes in off a front-running 3rd place over this class and distance on January 7th. He will surely be on pace here and has every chance of going all the way. The primary danger is (3) SECRET PLAY. He got his win over 1200M two starts back when settling right back and running on before trying the same and ultimately finishing 4th on his first try at this class on January 8th. He draws well and the slight step up in trip should suit. (8) SMART POWER is another consistent type who may not win out of turn but is rarely far away. She comes back in trip after back-to-back 4th place finishes at 1700M and 1400M but has run quick times at 1200M too and is firmly in the money frame again. (11) CRAZY LOVE and (1) DAECHEON BEAUTY – the latter out of sorts last time out – are others who can enter the calculations.
The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with a 9-race card from 11:00 to 18:00. Seo Seung-un, who rode a remarkable 14 winners in January, is suspended while You Hyun-myung had surgery following a fall last week and will be out for some months. Here are the previews:
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener and there will be a hot favourite. (7) DAHAMKKEDALLIJA has raced twice so far, finishing 3rd on both occasions most recently over this trip in a good time on January 13th when handy and running on. He will be up to class 5 with any top-three finish and can be expected to win here. (1) POWER PLANE was a much improved 4th at start number two over 1200M on January 8th settling back and running on. The additional half-furlong should suit and he gets a much better draw today. (2) SUPER KANEL also showed marked improvement on his latest appearance four weeks ago, running on for 2nd over this trip. With an apprentice engaged today he comes down significantly in the weights and should be going close again. (8) NAKDONG JEONSAN and (9) STORMY DAY others with the potential to improve.
Selections
(7) Dahamkkedallija (1) Power Plane (2) Super Kanel (8) Nakdong Jeonsa
Next Best
9, 4
Fast Start
2, 8, 10, 11
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
More three-year-old maidens and another hot favourite. This time it is (9) MY MANTRA. After running 5th of twelve over 1000M on debut in November, Peter Wolsley’s filly was an on pace runner-up when stepped up to this trip on December 18th. Despite being drawn a touch wide, she can be on pace again and should be too good for this lot. (8) DOCTOR CUCKOO comes in having run a very solid time over this distance on his latest start on January 15th. His 4th place that day, coming from off the pace, was his best so far and he can continue to make progress here. (7) HONOR LORD raced twice over 1000M late last summer. He comes in here having looked very well across two trials and will be backed first-up. There are two first time starters and both (4) GREEN LEGEND and (2) YONGSAN KEUNBYEUL did enough in their trials to suggest they can measure up in this somewhat limited company. Both should be on pace from good draws.
Selections
(9) My Mantra (8) Doctor Cuckoo (7) Honor Lord (4) Green Legend
Next Best
2, 1
Fast Start
2, 4, 8, 9
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
Standard maiden here. (7) SOUTHERN JOY has been relatively consistent across her five outings to date and her runner-up finish on her latest start on January 6th when she overcame the widest draw to settle midfield and run on for 2nd place is enough for her to get the nod here. (2) FAST FURY could only manage 6th when well supported in the same race, but she previously ran the quickest time of all of these at the distance when runner-up back in October. She should be on the speed again here and can be in this a long way. (11) THEIA ran fairly for 5th on debut over 1300M on January 13th. She should have come on for that experience and with some natural improvement may offer some value at an each-way price. (6) GOLDEN RACER and (8) ALPHA BRAVO are others who have demonstrated ability and can be in the money frame here.
Selections
(7) Southern Joy (2) Fast Fury (11) Theia (6) Golden Racer
Next Best
8, 12
Fast Start
2, 7, 8, 9
Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
It could be thirteenth time lucky for (3) YEOSU TORNADO here. He’s been knocking at the door in his latest few and most recently got his first runner-up finish when overcoming a wide draw to sit handy to the speed and then run on over this distance on January 13th. He draws much better today and a similar run can see him home on top. The main danger looks to be (7) ARTHUR KING IJI. He was 3rd in that January 13th race on what for him too was his first try at a mile having raced prominently throughout. He has three-lengths to find on Yeosu Tornado but perhaps has more scope for further improvement than the favourite. (12) HAMAN BAEIKISAN was 5th in that race having settled back and running on when it was too late. He was runner-up at this distance two starts back and with the same apprentice keeping the weight down, he can run into some money again. (1) ECTON POWER and (6) SPECIAL FACT among others in the placing frame.
Selections
(3) Yeosu Tornado (7) Arthur King Iji (12) Haman Baekisan (1) Ecton Power
Next Best
6, 8
Fast Start
2, 4, 7, 9
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Raon First faces danger from her own stablemate in the Segye Ilbo Trophy (Pic: KRA)
Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens in the opener with all at least one start behind them and (10) TOUCH CHARM will be the warm favourite. She ran 3rd on debut over 1000M on November 26th before improving to 2nd on her next start on December 18th when stepped up to 1200M in filly only company. She comes up in trip again, and slightly in weight, but she should have too much. (8) NEULGAEUL is the only one in the field to have prior experience of this distance having finished a close 3rd on December 17th. That experience should stand him in good stead for this and he can be the main danger. (2) KARIZMA ran fairly enough for a midfield finish on debut over 1000M a month ago. He should have derived benefit from that and can improve today. (6) BEST CLONE returns after almost five months out and looked well in a trial earlier this month and along with (9) INDIANUI BYEOL, who began his career with a 2nd and a 3rd, can be considered for a place.
Selections
(10) Touch Charm (8) Neulgaeul (2) Karizma (6) Best Clone
Next Best
9, 11
Fast Start
1, 3, 9, 10
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
(10) HWANGOO MONEY has come from well off the pace to run 3rd in both starts to date, both over 1200M and both from gate eleven. The wide draw certainly won’t be an issue and the additional half furlong should give him plenty of time to get the job done this time. (4) FAST GUN was anything but fast out of the gates on debut over 1000M on December 16th, but he finished off swiftly enough, passing plenty to finish 3rd. He should have come on for the run and he is another for who the extra distance can suit. (2) BRAVE CAPTAIN was much closer to the pace on her debut, scampering across from gate nine and ultimately running 4th over 1000M. With some natural improvement and from a better draw, she can match or better that today. (7) K GOLD BAR and others (9) SKY PUNCH are others who are in the placing hunt.
Selections
(10) Hwangoo Money (4) Fast Gun (2) Brave Captain (7) K Gold Bar
Next Best
9, 5
Fast Start
2, 5, 6, 7
Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens with all but one racing for the very first time. That experienced one didn’t do anything on debut to warrant recommendation so it’s to the trial videos we turn and the one who caught the eye the most was (5) TAMRA CHOEGANGJA. He sat handy in his heat before finishing well to cross the line in front, stopping the clock in a fair time. If he brings that form to the races, he won’t need to improve much to win this. (3) FANCY PLAY recorded the second fastest time in trials when leading in a heat in early December, ultimately finishing 2nd. He draws well to be on pace here and should be in it a long way. (12) CHECK POINT went through the same trial as Tamra Choegangja and while he does have five-lengths to make up, he ran on well and neither the wide draw nor the trip should be a hindrance first-up. Speaking of the trip, that sole one with experience, (7) THIS WEEKEND was slowly away and with a better start and in the absence of too many standout first-timers, can improve. (9) COMPLETE LEADER another debut-maker to keep an eye on.
Selections
(5) Tamra Choegangja (3) Fancy Play (12) Check Point (7) This Weekend
Next Best
9, 1
Fast Start
1, 3, 5, 8
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million
(6) HANEUL JEWANG enters off an improved 2nd place at this distance on December 16th when settling handy and finishing well to record a time faster than any of the others here have managed for the distance. He should be on or close to the speed again and in this company, will be warm favourite to go one better. The main danger is (8) META QUEEN. She was 5th behind Haneul Jewang in that December race but at the start before registered a runner-up finish of her own when on pace over 1000M. This is just her fourth career start and there could be some more improvement. (9) WONDERFUL CHACHA ran an improved 4th on his latest outing over 1300M on December 2nd. An apprentice keeps the weight light and he be in the mix here too. (10) SKY SHOT and (4) UNJU MACH among other minor money contenders.
Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
More three-year-old maidens with all but one of the twelve having raced at least once before. The debut-maker is notable though as he is set to be favourite. (3) JANGSAN SPO blitzed a trial in November, stopping the clock in a fast time some fourteen lengths clear of the next across the line. That showing, coupled with the modest opposition he faces here, makes him a heavy favourite, despite the big gap between trial and race. Only two of the experienced ones have positive form. (5) BEAT RUNNER is the clear second pick with a 6th and a 4th in two starts at 1000M and 1200M, the latter at this distance and both in fair times. A similar showing will see him place again. Draw a line through (4) MENI POCKET’s second appearance and instead go on her debut last summer and she is clear third choice although the length of time between starts isn’t reassuring. (8) CLAIR QUEEN and (11) GREEN SPECTER potential improvers.
Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Tricky race. We’ll take a chance on (9) WITH SUN, who was a strong winner on debut over 1200M in November when coming from off the pace before running 4th in a slow race over this distance on his first try at this level. The wide draw shouldn’t be an issue and today there should be a bit more early speed to chase down. The probable favourite is (2) BACKTOTHELEGEND. He overcame the widest gate to get on pace over 1200M on Christmas Day and ultimately went on to win well. He is up in class and in distance here but draws much better and has solid claims. (3) BYEOLGYOUI KKUM was an all the way winner at start number two over 1200M on Christmas Day. He too comes up in class and distance but draws well to get on the speed again and should be in this a long way. (11) ALL OR NOTHING ran out an eye-catching winner on debut in December. It was at 1000M, but he can measure up here. (1) FASHION FORCE ONE another in the frame.
Selections
(9) With Sun (2) Backtothelegend (3) Beolgyoui Kkum (11) All Or Nothing
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
3, 5, 6, 11
Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies (and two mares) here. There is very little to choose between the top two, both up in class following maiden wins. The coin toss comes down on the side of (3) WONDERFUL SLEW, who came from off the pace on debut over 1200M on December 18th to just get up to for the win. She comes up in trip here, but it can suit, and she can win. That’s true too for (5) JEOMSUNI GO. She was slowly away on debut over 1000M before rattling home late for a desperately near miss. She then took a very tight victory second-up at 1200M on Christmas Eve. She too comes up in class and distance and there is very little between them. If you fancy them both to get beat, then (11) GREENBACK maybe the place to turn. She has plenty of experience of this level and enters in consistent form. The draw isn’t ideal but with a touch of luck at the start, she can run on. (7) TOUR QUEEN and (6) DUSON CLASSIC, who was slowly away last time but should be on pace here, are others to consider.
Selections
(3) Wonderful Slew (5) Jeomsuni Go (11) Greenback (7) Tour Queen
Next Best
6, 1
Fast Start
1, 6, 11, 12
Busan Race 4: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million
(10) EUNSEONG WINNER ran out a strong winner at class and distance on December 23rd, settling just behind the early speed before taking things up at the top of the stretch and winning well. A word of caution in that she was found to have bled for the first time but she came through the mandatory trial earlier this month without issue. (8) ARCTURUS was 4th in that same race having led for much of the way in what was his first try at two turns. He has won well at a mile and can be a danger today. (6) HORAENGI is yet to win in fifteen attempts but has no fewer than twelve top five finishes including on her last start on Christmas Day when she came from well off the pace to run a close 2nd over a mile. She comes up in class here but is nicely weighted and has placed more than once at this distance already. (2) I WILL BE FREE and the rapidly up in class having won his latest two (1) MACH WONDER, are among plenty of others to consider.
Selections
(10) Eunseong Winner (8) Arcturus (6) Horaengi (2) I Will Be Free
Next Best
1, 5
Fast Start
1, 8, 10, 12
Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1700M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
After a week off for the Lunar New Year holiday, racing returns to Korea this weekend. Things get underway on Friday at Busan with a 10-race card from 11:00 to 18:00. It’s quite a star studded line-up for a Friday as Speed Young, who won the Breeders’ Cup Champion Juvenile race in December, goes in race 9 while filly Triple Crown winner Golden Power seeks to return to form in a very challenging race 10. Here are the previews:
Speed Young makes his three-year-old debut at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)
Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maiden fillies get things underway with five of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and (11) AMAZING MOVE who, after a positive trial, ran a solid enough 5th on debut on December 18th, settling back and running on. That suggests the wide draw shouldn’t be too problematic here and having derived benefit from that run, she can win here. (6) ACE HORANGI was well backed on debut in the same December 18th after a quick trial and while she could only manage 7th, she can improve here. (3) GIJEOGUI GEUMBIT is another who ran 5th on debut at this distance on Christmas Day, overcoming a wide draw. The time was significantly slower than Amazing Move’s and Ace Horangi’s but she too can make progress today. As for the first timers, (2) MAGIC SWEETIE and (5) UNJU AKANSHA look the most likely to make an immediate impact.
Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million
Three-year-old maidens. (12) GEUMA DEFT beat three of these on debut on December 16th over 1000M when crossing the line 1st and stopping the clock in a fast time only to be demoted by the stewards for interference. He has the challenge of the widest gate here, but the manner of that run suggests that with a touch of luck at the start and a touch more discipline at the finish, he can finish ahead of those same rivals today. (2) DUBAI WONJEONGDAE ran 4th in that race. He was a full ten-lengths behind Geuma Deft but the step up in trip can suit and he can get closer today. There are three first time starters and among them (6) HAVE A GOOD YEAR was the best in trials. He went through two heats, significantly improving in the second of them when leading for much of the way around. He can be on pace here and put in a bold showing. (5) ROAD TO GLORY and (9) RUN TO KING other placing hopes.
Selections
(12) Geuma Deft (2) Dubai Wonjeongdae (6) Have A Good Year (5) Road To Glory
Next Best
9, 7
Fast Start
1, 4, 6, 12
Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) KRW 25 Million
A regular maiden here and it seems wide open. Four of them raced each other over 1300M on December 23rd and that looks to be a good reference. (11) PURPLE LINE debuted in that race, settling towards the rear of midfield and running on for 3rd. He should have come on for that experience, the extra distance can suit, and he has as good a chance as any here. It will require him to make up almost two lengths on (6) COOL RUNNING. He led that December 23rd race until the closing stages, ultimately coming home in 2nd place. He has shown improvement across his three starts so far, he can be on pace again, and he shouldn’t be ruled out. Also making progress over three previous appearances has been (12) VEREUDA. She finished off well for 4th in that December 23rd race from a similarly wide draw to today, and she can continue to improve here. Of those who didn’t go in the December 23rd race, (7) DOCTOR SHARK and (2) PEGACORN look the best.
Selections
(11) Purple Line (6) Cool Running (12) Vereuda (7) Doctor Shark
Next Best
2, 9
Fast Start
2, 4, 6, 10
Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million
Fillies (and two mares) only and it’s a good race for the level. (3) SPECIAL ROAD justified favourite status to make all at start number two on December 18th over 1200M, winning comfortable. She comes up in class and distance here but draws very nicely and has every chance of scoring again. So too (4) GRAPHENE RAP WORLD. Having won over five furlongs in a super quick time back in November, she than ran a solid 3ns on her first try at this class over 1200M on December 16th. She does come up in the weights here but draws well and the additional half furlong can suit. (2) BLUE ICON is yet to win but enters off three consecutive runner-up finishes, most recently at class and distance on December 23rd when on pace throughout. She draws very nicely here and it’s not impossible she could go one better at last. (5) THUNDER FURY has placed at this class and along with up in class (7) DALEHOLRINGWANGDAE is another in the hunt.
Selections
(3) Special Road (4) Graphene Rap World (2) Blue Icon (5) Thunder Fury
Next Best
7, 6
Fast Start
2, 3, 4, 6
Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million
Horse Racing in Korea 