Busan

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

The final leg of the 2022 Triple Crown, the Minister’s Cup will be run on Sunday at Seoul but the weekend’s action gets underway at Busan with an eight-race card on Friday running from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Friday

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener and it’s hard to go past (8) HUIMANG PUNCH. She debuted last October, beating just one home and then didn’t reappear until a trial in April. She was encouraging in that heat to the extent that she was well-fancied on her return to racing on May 13th when an on-pace 2nd at this distance. Her time for the 1200M was faster than any of the others here have achieved and she should win. (2) MORNING MUSE improved to 3rd place on her latest start on May 20th when she overcame a wide draw to sit handy and then ran on. She comes into a better gate today and can go close. (5) PURE MAGIC debuted in that May 29th race, running a solid 5th. He should have come on for that run and with some natural improvement can go closer this time. (6) EURO STAR and (1) WONDERFUL TRICKS among others with scope to improve.

Selections(8) Huimang Punch (2) Morning Muse (5) Pure Magic (6) Euro Star
Next Best1, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens. It’s not a strong field so we’re willing to take a chance on one of the two first-time starters. (3) WIDAEHAN HAMAN enters having won a May trial in which she looked assured, breaking well and then responding to urging late on and running through the line well. The time wasn’t fast but she demonstrated enough to suggest a bold showing first-up is possible. (7) SEOGWI CHUKJE was an improved 3rd at start number four on May 6th when settling back in the field and running on. An apprentice keeps her weight very light and she can place again. (1) STAR MATTA was well-backed on debut on May 8th having won a trial in April in a fast time. While he settled handy, he didn’t quite see the race out and ended up only beating one home. He should have benefitted from that and could be a different prospect today. The other first-timer, (2) SILVER ROAD, trialed fairly and along with (6) TAP STAR is another to consider.

Selections(3) Widaehan Haman (7) Seogwi Chukje (1) Star Matta (2) Silver Road
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(1) WONDERFUL BOBCAT enters in consistent form with a strong 2nd last time out when close to the pace over a mile. He has run well at this distance too and draws very nicely here to drop in behind the early speed and run on. This is his fourth start since returning from almost a year out and he could be peaking here. (10) MY SONG was a much-improved 2nd at her latest appearance on May 13th when she sat handy and ran on and while a long way behind a good winner, a similar run today will see her in the finish. (11) QUEEN’S DAERO beat both Wonderful Bobcat and My Song when 2nd at this distance on April 15th. That was her best result in eight starts so far and while she could only manage 6th behind My Song on her re-appearance last month, she should be competitive here. (3) RHIANNON POINT and (2) BLUE CAPTAIN are among others in the placing frame.

Selections(1) Wonderful Bobcat (10) My Song (11) Queen’s Daero (3) Rhiannon Point
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(2) WONDERFUL SECRET comes in having won just the once but with no fewer than eight top-four finishes from twelve starts. That includes his latest on May 13th when at this class and distance he beat three of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place having settled midfield and run on behind a good winner. From a good draw he will be on pace here and is the one to beat. (7) CENTUM THOR is yet to win in sixteen attempts but is ultra-consistent with thirteen top-five finishes. He has run good times at this distance and was 5th in the May 13th race. He comes down slightly in the weights here and can be competitive. (1) ADELE BOSS was 3rd in that same race having led for much of the way around. That was his first try around two turns and he should benefit from it. (3) DIA FORCE and (6) B J’S TERMS are others to take into consideration.

Selections(2) Wonderful Secret (7) Centum Thor (1) Adele Boss (3) Dia Force
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

A maiden winner at this distance two starts back at class 6 level, (5) INDIE MAGIC ran a solid 3rd on his first try at this class on May 1st when settling back in the field and steadily improving. He looks to have scope for more development and from a fair gate will probably be a bit closer to the speed this time around and he can win. The biggest danger may well be his stablemate. (10) PURPLE MANGO comes up in class following an all the way score at this distance on May 15th. While the draw is not ideal, she can get forward again and a Rice-quinella looks a real possibility. Also up in class is (4) INTO MARINE. He similarly made all over this distance on March 4th and comes in fresh after three months. He comes down in the weights, draws well, and can go close. (8) SPICE INDIE and (3) JEONGDEUN-RO others in the frame.

Selections(5) Indie Magic (10) Purple Mango (4) Into Marine (8) Spice Indie
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 9, 10
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Ttukseom Cup Sunday: Seoul & Busan Race-By-Race Preview (June 5)

The Queens’ Tour for fillies and mares gets underway on Sunday and Raon First will be hot favourite to score in the Ttukseom Cup (1400M KOR-G2). There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 11:35 to 16:15. Here are the previews:

Raon First will be favourite for the Ttukseom Cup (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener and (11) MARUMA is the one to beat. He has the fastest time among these at the distance, recorded at his last start on April 23rd when he sat in 3rd place the entire way around. The wide draw shouldn’t be too much of an issue and he won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. (10) TRIPLE JOY has raced fairly in two starts so far, finishing in 3rd and 5th. He steps up to this distance for the first time and can make further progress. (9) OCHEONBOK has come from off the pace in both of her races to date, finishing 4th and then 2nd, the latter at this distance on April 30th. She has posted impressive final furlong times and so long as she doesn’t get too far back, can be a danger late on. (1) GEUMA CHIC and (7) KING HONOR are others to take into consideration.

Selections(11) Maruma (10) Triple Joy (9) Ocheonbok (1) Geuma Chic
Next Best7, 12
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(1) ACE PLAN has looked to be working towards a win from his latest few appearances, culminating in a 3rd place last time out on May 21st when he was an on-pace 3rd at this distance. He returns just two weeks later and from a better draw, should be on or close to the pace from the start and he will be favoured to win here. Coming out of the opposite end of the gate will be (12) APPLE MINT. He has started to hit some form in his latest two and an apprentice jockey brings the weight down considerably today. He has settled midfield or worse in those two recent outings so the wide draw may not be too much of an inconvenience. (6) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE has four to-five finishes from six outings to date and can continue her solid run of form following a last start 3rd. (7) FLYING BARBIE and (11) TORUK MAKTO others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(1) Ace Plan (12) Apple Mint (6) Neoreul Eongwonhae (7) Flying Barbie
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

A competitive maiden for three-year-olds gets things underway on the south coast. We’ll go with (8) WORLD FOUR A, who after participating in a fast trial to qualify in April, ran a good 2nd on debut at 1200M on May 22nd when he was on pace throughout and led in the straight. He should have come on for that run and with some natural improvement can win here. (4) TRIPLE THUNDER is yet to finish any worse than 5th in four career outings. He was an on-pace 2nd at this distance on May 8th and form a nice draw, will be expected to be on the early speed again and to be in this a long way. (11) DOCTOR PERSIA has run fairly across three starts. He got a long way back last time out but ran on well enough for 5th and if given slightly more of a chance here, can get closer. (2) MAHAMERU and (1) WIND WINNER are others to consider.

Selections(8) World Four A (4) Triple Thunder (11) Doctor Persia (2) Mahameru
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(12) GLOBAL PRIME returned from a couple of months out to run an improved 2nd in what was an admittedly slow race at this distance on April 10th. He had hinted at a bit of speed before though and despite the wide draw, in this company, he has every chance. (4) SPEED GALLOP has finished outside the top-five only once in five attempts so far. At her latest appearance back in February, she ran a good 3rd at this distance in an all-fily race having sat back from a wide draw. She comes in fresh here and can go close. (2) YONGCHEON JISANG was a much-improved 2nd at start number three on May 8th at this distance. He should have come on for that experience and can aim for at least the places again. (8) EPIPHANY and (6) KING MOUNTAIN are among others who may be considered for the minors.

Selections(12) Global Prime (4) Speed Gallop (2) Yongcheon Jisang (8) Epiphany
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start5, 6, 11, 12

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Fillies (and two mares) only here. It’s a full sixty-seven weeks since we saw (7) BLACK OLIVE make her one solitary appearance, but it was memorable as she led from gate to wire over 1000M scoring comfortably. Her setbacks hopefully behind, she caught the eye when fairly bolting up in a barrier trial in late April and having won first-up before, she can do so again, especially as she gets another crack at class 6 what with that race last year being run for significantly reduced prize money. (12) FANTASTIC MAGIC has hinted at ability across seven outings so far. She ran a good 4th at her latest on May 15th and can be running on well here. (9) HAPPY SONG SONG seemed to take a few goes to figure out what she’s supposed to do but she now has a pair of 3rd place finishes and a 4th from her latest three. (11) SEUNGRIUI BULGIL and (5) TAKE ADELE others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(7) Black Olive (12) Fantastic Magic (9) Happy Song Song (11) Seungriui Bulgil
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

A competitive race here with two standouts. We’ll tentatively side with (2) WILD SOCKS. He was a winner at this distance at class 6 level and comes in off a good 2nd place at 1300M at this class on May 21st when he settled midfield and ran on. He draws nicely here and can win. The big danger in (5) WONDERFUL KITTY. She may be yet to win in six starts but has three-runner-up finishes to her name, including on her latest start at class and distance on May 8th when, as has tended to be her style, she went right back and finished fast. An apprentice jockey brings her weight right down today and that could be crucial when she launches her late challenge. (10) TOUCH NINE comes up in class after a good win over this distance on May 15th. He drew wide that day as well and can measure up in this company. (9) GLOBAL BOBAE and (6) RIVER TAEYANG are others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Wild Socks (5) Wonderful Kitty (10) Touch Nine (9) Global Bobae
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

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

It’s hard to go too far past (11) DONGBU WORLD here. While he does remain a maiden after five attempts, he is yet to finish outside the top-four and has three runner-up finishes. That includes his latest outing, which was at this class and distance on May 13th when he was on pace throughout and went down narrowly. He does come up 2kg in the weights and may need a touch of luck at the start, given the wide draw, but he is still the one to beat. (3) ACE GUY races for the first time since last September. He had put together a good run of form before the layoff and looked well when trialing up at the end of April. He has a strong finish on him and a bold-showing is possible first-up here. (6) YOUNG BOSS has got a bit far back in his latest two races but there is ability there and he has won at this distance. He may be worth another chance here at a probable each-way price. (5) MONEY BAG and (1) MAJOR FORCE among others with placing chances.

Selections(11) Dongbu World (3) Ace Guy (6) Young Boss (5) Money Bag
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

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

Fillies and mares only here. (5) SIRIUS ALPHA got her maiden win two starts back over 1200M at class 6 level with an on-pace run and then overcame the widest gate to lead until the closing stages on her first try at this level over 1400M on May 1st. She looks nicely in here from a better draw to get to the lead and she may well go all the way. (3) WILD RUNNER comes up in class following smart win over 1200M when odds-on favourite at start number three on April 23rd. She stalked the leader before striking the front a furlong out and running away for a comfortable win. This is harder but she draws well to be on pace again and should measure up in this company. (4) CONCORD QUEEN weakened when in a promising position over 1400M on her first try at this class on May 1st. She was favourite that day having been a strong winner at class 6 over 1200M the time before and can be given another chance today. (8) CHEONEUNCHONG and (7) RISING HAWK others to look out for.

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

June kicks off with the final leg of the filly Triple Crown, the Gyeonggi Govenor’s Cup at Seoul on Sturday before the capital track hosts the Ttukseom Cup. the first leg of the Queens’ Tour, on Sunday. Before that there is an 8-race program at Busan on Friday which runs from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan,

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings, with four of the twelve racing for the first time. Among the newcomers is probable hot favourite (5) CAPTAIN GOLD. He produced one of the most impressive trial performances seen recently when leading all the way and crossing the line thirteen-lengths ahead of anything else and only asked for minimal effort. If he brings anything like that form to the races, he’ll win easily. (11) JOSEPHINE QUEEN is the best of the experienced ones. She’s finished in the top five on all four of her starts so far, registering fair times in the process. She can go close here. (9) CHONGAL CHARM has hinted at ability in three outings to date and should be in the placing frame here. (10) GRAPHENE KING and (12) TOMYRIS are other first time starters who looked well in trials.

Selections(5) Captain Gold (11) Josephine Queen (9) Chongal Charm (10) Graphene King
Next Best12, 4
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

There is one debut-maker among this field of maidens and (11) INDIE BULPAE is likely to attract plenty of interest. He’s a half-brother to KRA Cup Classic winner Mr. Afleet and debuts here having improved in the second of two trials. This is not a very strong race and a bold showing first up looks on the cards. (1) DOCTOR KONGDOLI mixes his form but does have a runner-up finish to his name and from a good draw today can be competitive. (10) DAEJI SPECIAL has been reasonably consistent across his seven outings to date and drops back in trip following recent starts at 1400M and a mile. He is a touch one-paced but will can run on into some money here. (9) GALLOP BOY and (6) RUNNING WARRIOR are among others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(11) Indie Bulpae (1) Doctor Kongdoli (10) Daejii Special (9) Gallop Boy
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) CHOEGANG FORCE looks to be the one to beat here. He races for the first time since February, when he ran a good 3rd at this distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He does tend to get a bit far back in his races but he has a strong finish and he should prove too good for this lot. (1) CHOEGANG DUDEURIM enters off her two best finishes having run 3rd and 2nd. She too can leave herself a bit too much to do, but from a good draw and with an apprentice keeping the weight right down again, she can go close. (2) DOCTOR CANDY beat a couple of these on her way to 5th place over a mile last time out. She has run fairly at this distance too and can be in the placing frame at least here. (7) URI JOEUNNAL and (3) MY PAL are others to consider.

Selections(4) Choegang Force (1) Choegang Dudeurim (2) Doctor Candy (7) Uri Joeunnal
Next Best3, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 9

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

A small field of fillies here but it is competitive. We’ll give a chance to (7) DOKBO, who comes up in class having registered her maiden win on her third start in May 6th when leading all the way. She looks to have scope for more development and can be on pace here and win again. The probable favourite is (2) CHEONGHO BOSS. She’s yet to finish outside the top five and was a smart winner over this distance at class 6 level. At her latest start on May 6th, she beat a couple of today’s rivals on her way to 2nd place and from a great draw, will be in this a long way. (5) HAMAN YEOHANGSAN got her maiden win two starts back and then ran 3rd on her first try at this class over 1300M on April 24th. She has a strong finish on her and can be competitive here. (8) BLUE CARSON and (4) BURNING PASSION are others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Dokbo (2) Cheongho Boss (5) Haman Yeohangsan (8) Blue Carson
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(4) GOLD TAP was a winner on debut back in February and since then has run 5th an d 2nd in two assignments at this class. The most recent of those was on his first try at a mile on May 8th when prominent throughout and leading for part of the home straight, and he will be expected to return to the winner’s circle here. (2) WONDERUL FILE was a good winner over 1300M two starts back to get promoted to this class and ran 3rd on her first crack at it over the same distance on April 29th. She comes up in trip here but it can suit and she should be going close. (8) CHOEGANG MARINE and (7) GRAND CHUKJE can both have a line drawn through their respective latest starts. The former is a winner at this distance while the latter has placed at class and distance. (9) HOLLYWOOD QUEEN another who can be competitive.

Selections(4) Gold Tap (2) Wonderful File (8) Choegang Marine (7) Grand Chukje
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

A small field but a very competitive affair. (5) GALLANT WARRIOR was a class and distance winner on May 6th when on pace throughout. Both his wins have come at this distance and while he does come up 2kg from that run, he has every chance of winning again. (1) ROSE BULLET came home in 3rd place in that race having been on pace throughout. He draws nicely here and can be a danger again. (8) CHEONGHO LEADER enters off a solid runner-up finish at class and distance on May 15th. He came from well off the pace that day and the wide draw shouldn’t be an issue. (3) GREAT DANCE is another who comes out of that May 6th race when he was 5th. While he only has the one win to his name, he has ten top-three finishes and should be close again. (7) YEONGWON POWER another to consider.

Selections(5) Gallant Warrior (1) Rose Bullet (8) Cheongho Leader (3) Great Dance
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 6

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

(12) BEAUTIFUL KING won back-to-back races over this distance in March and April the second of which was at this class. He weakened in the straight at 1400M on his latest outing on May 8th but this looks a more suitable assignment and he can return to winning ways. It’s a tricky race though. (6) A ONE PLUS is yet to win in twenty-one attempts but has no fewer than thirteen top-five finishes. He has some fair performances at this distance to his name and under a light weight again, can go close. (11) ROCKET SORI didn’t do too much wrong on debut at this distance on April 29th. He should have benefitted for the experience and with natural improvement can get closer today. (2) MUJEOK CHARLIE and (8) ONE PICK are among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(12) Beautiful King (6) A One Plus (11) Rocket Sori (2) Mujeok Charlie
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 8: Class 2 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 90 Million

A very competitive race to finish with. (10) SONIC KING IJI might be ready to return to the winner’s circle. He’s been getting closer across his latest few appearances and ran 2nd at class and distance on April 22nd, beating plenty of today’s rivals in the process. The draw is not ideal but he doesn’t need to lead and while he comes up 2kg in the weights, he has a chance. (11) ILNYEOM TONGCHEON won back-to-back races at this distance in March and April. She comes in off a 4th place when dropped back to 1200M on May 6th but back up in trip today, she can be a big threat. (1) COPY THAT beat Ilnyeom Tongcheon in that May 6th race having previously run 2nd to her at this distance. He gets a great draw here and can be a danger. (6) GEUMA PSYCHIC and (3) BABEL HIT are others to consider.

Selections(10) Sonic King Iji (11) Ilnyeom Tongcheon (1) Copy That (6) Geuma Psychic
Next Best3, 8
Fast Start 4, 6, 10, 11

YTN Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (May 29)

The second leg of the Stayer Series, the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3) highlights the 11-race Sunday card at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00 while at Busan there is a class 1 sprint headlining the 6-race program from 12:00 to 16:45. Click here for a runner-by-runner guide to the YTN Cup. Here is the race-by-race:

Moonhak Chief won the YTN Cup during his breakout 2019 season (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open the program with four of the twelve racing for the very first time. (7) DAPHNE has hinted at some ability when 3rd over 1000M at start number three last December. She hasn’t raced since but looked well when 2nd in a trial on May 6th and from a likely on pace position, she has as good a chance as any here. (3) OKCHEON CHOEGANG has finished in 4th place in both outings so far, both of them over this distance and most recently when beating a couple of today’s rivals on April 30th. He’ll be challenging Daphne for the early lead and has every chance of going all the way. (6) CHOEGO BLACK was 5th behind Okcheon Choegang on what was his debut on April 30th. He should have come on for that run and can get closer today. Of the first-time starters, (4) EURO TEUKGEUP improved in his second trial and from a great draw can go well first up. (9) KINGS EYE another in the frame after an adequate debut.

Selections(7) Daphne (3) Okcheon Choegang (6) Choego Black (4) Euro Teukgeup
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Filly maidens only here. (5) TIFFANY BLUE looks to be the one to beat following an on-pace narrow runner-up finish over 1300Mon April 10th. She has run well at this distance too and with an apprentice jockey taking 3kg off her back, she looks extremely well in here. (6) SWEET KAKAO similarly gets the benefit of an apprentice claim, in her case a full 4kg. That brings her down from her back-to-back 4th places in her latest two where she has settled behind the early speed and run on. There isn’t much early speed here so she should be on the pace and can go all the way. (10) NAMSAN KKOT was 5th behind Sweet Kakao on her latest appearance on May 1st having run 4th the time before that and should be in at least the placing frame here. (2) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER and (11) NAEGILUI BYEOL are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(5) Tiffany Blue (6) Sweet Kakao (10) Namsan Kkot (2) Hampyeong Fighter
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It has been a full forty-nine weeks since we last saw (7) VICTORY SAM in a race. He did quite well that day to, running 2nd over 1000M on her third career outing. She has had setbacks since but seemed very much over them with a bold showing in a trial on April 22nd when she led from gate to wire. She couldn’t really pick a nicer race to return in and despite her absence, she will be a strong favourite here. (4) SHINE MUSIC is yet finish in the top-two places in fifteen starts but she has shown some consistency in her latest few outings and comes in off a useful enough 5th at her latest start on May 8th. She can settle behind the early leaders here and run into some money. (3) FAMILY CAPTAIN has a 2nd place to his name at this distance three starts back and after two indifferent spins when carrying 56kg, gets a 4kg allowance with an apprentice climbing aboard. That should bring him into the placing frame here. (12) GLOBAL CASTLE and (2) BEST BIG BANG are others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Victory Sam (4) Shine Music (3) Family Captain (12) Global Castle
Next Best2, 5
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old filly maidens in the South Coast opener. (1) QUEEN ALLIE gets the nod following an encouraging debut over 1200M on May 6th when she settled back before running on well for 2nd place. She should have come on for that run, she has a great draw, and the additional half furlong should pose no problems. (8) HANEUL JILJU has improved across her three starts to date, culminating in 3rd place last time out when leading until the closing stages. She will be on pace again and should be in this a long way. (5) ALL CROWN already has positive experience at this distance, running a good 2nd at it on her latest appearance on March 20th. She settled back and ran on and similar can be expected here. (9) STAR CATCH ad (2) CROWD ONE are others with at least placing claims.

Selections(1) Queen Allie (8) Haneul Jilju (5) All Crown (9) Star Catch
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 10

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

Fillies only here and while plenty enter in good form, (7) RAON THE WEEKEND is the one to beat. Her solitary win to date came at this distance in a good time at class 6 level three starts back and since then she has run well in two attempts at this level. First, she overcame gate thirteen to get to the speed but ultimately end up 6th over 1200M and then most recently, on April 9th, went right back after a slow start but finished off well for 4th. With a better start today, she will prove hard to go past. (4) INVICTUS is the logical second pick. Her win over 1200M at class 6 at the beginning of April had been coming and she showed she can measure up at this level when 4th over 1400M on May 1st. She can sit on the speed or settle back and run on and should be a factor here. (2) GREEN JJANG took a couple of tries to get to grips with this level but has been coming back into form in her latest two, especially her last start 2nd at 1200M. From a good draw, she can be on the speed here and go close. (11) CUPID JUMBO and the up in class (6) V QUEEN among others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Raon The Weekend (4) Invictus (2) Green Jjang (11) Cupid Jumbo
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start2, 3, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(7) GEUMA INFINITE ran a solid 3rd place on debut over 1300M on May 8th when settling midfield and finishing off well. The additional half-furlong should suit and with some natural improvement from that run, he should be winning this. He will be a hot favourite in a field where the form of the rest is less than convincing. (2) BOUNTY HUNTER doesn’t look in any danger of winning a race, but he has picked up minor money on five of eleven occasions so far. An apprentice brings him down 3kg in the weights here and from a good draw, he can be aiming for a career best finish. (10) MILK DAY too has been loitering around the minors, most recently beating a couple of these on his way to 4th place over 1300M on May 13th. The wide gate shouldn’t matter, and he looks a solid placing chance. (5) THE PRINCESS and (8) YEONGGWANGUI RIDER others who can find some minor money although the latter does tend to save his best for barrier trials.

Selections(7) Geuma Infinite (2) Bounty Hunter (10) Milk Day (5) The Princess
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

After seven top-five finishes, it’s about time (7) REMARKABLE finally came home in top. He enters after back-to-back 3rd places at class and distance, both in good times and once more carries a light weight. He draws fairly, and today can be his day. (6) NONSTOP CAT enters off two consecutive runner-up finishes at class and distance, both times having been drawn wide. From a better gate today, he can pose a threat again.  (1) K N SKETCH is up in class following a maiden win over 1300M on May 1st when he sat behind the leader before taking things up just before the furlong pole and never looking back. He draws well for Antonio to sit handy here and he should measure up at this level. (12) COMPLETE WEAPON was a winner at start number two at 1200M on April 2nd. It wasn’t a fast time, but he looks to have potential the wide draw isn’t too much of a concern. (5) CONCORDE SPURT among others with placing chances.

Selections(7) Remarkable (6) Nonstop Cat (1) K N Sketch (12) Complete Weapon
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 9
(more…)

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

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) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens open proceedings. (4) TWO TWO COIN is the one to beat and will be a warm favourite. She’s shown improvement across five starts so far and enters off a strong 3rd place over this distance on May 13th when prominent throughout. She likes to be on pace, so draws well here and she won’t need to improve much, if at all, on that last run to win here. (11) SHAKA races once last September, putting in a fair run in a fast race over 1000M. He’s not been seen since but he remains in Kim Young-kwan’s stable and he looked very well when leading for much of a trial on May 14th, ultimately crossing the line 3rd in a good time. The draw is not ideal but a bold first-up showing is possible. (10) SUPER CRACK improved significantly at start number four over this distance on April 29th when settling midfield and running on and is another who can be dangerous. (7) PRETTY CHARM and (1) SPECIAL WIND among others with placing chances.

Selections(4) Two Two Coin (11) Shaka (10) Super Crack (7) Pretty Charm
Next Best1, 12
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

It’s hard to look too far past (4) CUTE GUY here. Having trialed up well, he was sent off as favourite on debut over 1200M on March 4th and while he led for much of the way around, he ultimately ran a close 2nd to Green Cheetah. He’s had almost three months off since and while he carries more weight and comes up in trip, he will be the one they need to beat. (5) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE’s best finish to date came at this distance three starts back when on pace and finishing 2nd. The time was the fastest that any of these have posted at this distance and he can go close again here. (2) BAEDARI GANGHO can have a line drawn through his latest outing on May 13th when he was drawn wide and got a long way back. From a much more favourable gate today, he should be a different prospect. (6) NAREUCAT and (9) VIEW AMAZING others who can aim for the minor money.

Selections(4) Cute Guy (5) Choegang Mujigae (2) Baedari Gangho (6) Nareucat
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

Small but competitive field here. (9) MAN OF THE STAR may still be a maiden and may be up in class here but there is no reason why he can’t measure up. He has posted competitive times across his four starts to date, and at his latest on February 27th, he worked hard to get to the lead from a similarly wide gate, ultimately finishing 2nd. He comes in fresh here, is sown in the weights and today could be his day. He will vie for favourite status with (5) EUNSEONG YEONGUNG. He was slowly away at his latest start but gets a much better gate today and can be a different prospect, having already registered some good times at this distance. Expect him to be on pace this time. (2) KING BID finished ahead of Eunseong Yeongung last time out and has the best time of any of these at the distance. He likes to settle back and run on and so long as he doesn’t leave himself too much to do, he can be a danger late on here. (8) STATICE and (4) BABEL PHOENIX among others with chances.

Selections(9) Man Of The Star (5) Eunseong Yeongung (2) King Bid (8) Statice
Next Best4, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 9

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

A small field of fillies and mares here but a competitive one nonetheless. (4) TTEUGEOUN MANNAM looks set to go well. Her solitary victory was all the way back in December 2020, before she missed the majority of her three-year-old campaign, returning to action in October following eight months out. Since then she has been working her way back into form and was a good 3rd at class and distance last time out on April 10th. In this company she could well be on the early speed and she can win here. (6) HAMAN BONGHWASAN has only raced four times, winning at start number two over 1300M. She comes in having run 3rd over 1400M on her latest start at the beginning of April and drops back to this distance for the very first time. She can settle handy here and run on. (3) HAVANA JANE took seventeen goes to get her maiden win and come up in class but she has seemed comfortable enough in three subsequent outings at this level and should be there or thereabouts again, (5) JEONGDEUN-RO and (8) BAEK GU others to enter the calculations.

Selections(4) Tteugeoun Mannam (6) Haman Bonghwasan (3) Havana Jane (5) Jeongdeun-ro
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

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

The second division of the filly/mare handicap and it’s as equally open as the first. We’ll tentatively side with (6) ARTIE’S GAL to finally make the breakthrough at start number ten. She comes in off a front-running 2nd place at 1300M on April 29th and while she is ostensibly up in class here, this isn’t an intimidating set of opponents. She comes down in the weights, draws well, and she has as good a chance as any here. (4) RUN AND GUN is yet to finish in the top two but has no fewer than nine top-five finishes in fourteen attempts. She comes in off back-to-back 4th place finishes and can settle back and run on to go close again here. (5) MYEONGSEONG MAGIC had gone a little cold prior to spending almost six months on the sidelines from last November. She returns to action here having won a trial at the end of April and could be heading back into form. (8) GUARDIAN ANGEL and (3) COLORFUL WIND others in the placing frame.

Selections(6) Artie’s Gal (4) Run And Gun (5) Myeongseong Magic (8) Guardian Angel
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 6

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) HAMYANGEUN SANSAM won his first two in fine style at 1300M before being tried arounf 1800M on May 6th, his first try at this class. That proved to be too much too soon and having led early, he knocked up very quickly in the home straight. This is a much more suitable assignment with a much better draw and so long as that chastening experience three weeks ago didn’t take too much out of him, he can return to winning ways today. (6) MIRACLE SON returned from eight months out to run a strong 2nd place over class and distance on a muddy track on April 29th. He had put together an impressive set of results before the layoff and should be better for April’s run. He can sit handy here and be strong late on. (3) SANGSEUNG BOY has raced just four times with two wins and two 3rd place finishes to his name. The latter 3rd was his first try at this class and from a good draw, he can be expected to be on pace from the start and to be in this a long way. (5) CHOEGANG CUPID comes up in class but down in weight after a good win at this distance and can measure up at this level. The wildcard is (2) BEASTLY. Who returns to action for the first time since June last year. He looked well when winning a trial earlier this month.

Selections(4) Hamyangeun Sansam (6) Miracle Son (3) Sangseung Boy (5) Choegang Cupid
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Good race this. We’ll stick with (2) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI, who scored on his first try at this class on May 13th, tracking the leader and then running on for a narrow victory. He comes up 4kg in the weights, but that is balanced a little by a better draw and another win isn’t impossible. The big danger is (1) WINNNG DANCER. A class and distance winner in a fast time three starts back in January, he has since run 3rd and 4th, beating plenty of today’s rivals and will probably start as the favourite here. (4) ACE DAY is also a recent class and distance winner, having made all in February to win in a fast time. His only subsequent run was three weeks ago when he worked hard to get to a forward position from an unhelpful draw, only to weaken in the closing stages over 1400M. Today’s assignment looks a better one for him and he should go close. (5) BURNING FLY and (6) REVERSE SWEEP are both experienced at this class and capable of finding the money.

Selections(2) Busanhang Galmaegi (1) Winning Dancer (4) Ace Day (5) Burning Fly
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

It took (2) CALM STRONG several attempts to figure things out but she seems to have got there, winning her latest two in fine style and fast times over the 1400M. She comes up in class and also up in distance to two turns for the first time here, but in this company she looks to have solid claims to win again. (6) YEOKJEON MYEONGSU came back into form with a strong class and distance 2nd at his latest start behind his very good looking stablemate Tuhonui Banseok on April 29th. He has run some good times at the distance and if Calm Strong gets found out, he could well be the one to take advantage. (9) SUNLIGHT BOY managed a good class and distance 2nd two starts back, beating several of today’s rivals and can go close. (7) QUATTRO MAX and (5) MALIBU BYEOL are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Calm Strong (6) Yeokjeon Myeongsu (9) Sunlight Boy (7) Quattro Max
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 10

SROA Chairman’s Sprint Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 22)

Sunday sees the 2nd leg of the 2022 Korea Sprint Series with the SROA Chairman’s Sprint at Seoul. Click here for the full runner-by-runner preview of the big G3 race. There are 11 races at Seoul as well as 6 at Busan. Here are the previews:

Can Hit Yegam upset Raon The Fighter in the SROA Chairman’s Trophy? (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Big field of three-year-old maidens in the opener. The one to beat is (4) BLUE INDY. Having trialed up well, he ran 3rd on debut over this distance on April 23rd, when settling midfield and finishing off well. With some natural improvement here, he may be hard to beat. (10) BURUI JILJU showed significant improvement at start number three on March 27th when settling right back and running on strongly for 3rd in a fair time on a wet track. The manner of that run suggests the wide draw won’t be a problem and he should be running on strong again. (2) EUNHYE GUY was ordered back to trial after his debut last place on March 19th. He looked a completely different prospect when passing that trial on April 29th and from a much better draw, compared to the widest on debut, he may go much better. (9) PERMISSION TO WIN and (1) NB JEONSA are others to consider.

Selections(4) Blue Indy (10) Burui Jilju (2) Eunhye Guy (9) Permission To Win
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The first division of a split maiden. (9) TROT QUEEN has steadily improved across six starts to date with her best two finishes coming in her latest two with a 3rd place at 1300M and then 2nd at 1200M, the latter having led almost the entire way around on April 17th. She was favourite that and will probably be so again and this time she can go one better. (4) EAST MAGIC comes in following his joint-best finish so far when 4th at this distance on April 2nd. From a good draw he can join Trot Queen on the early speed and should be in this a long way. (6) SINJURYU has gone well in his latest two and the engagement of an apprentice today brings his carried weight right down. He can settle handy or midfield and has the fastest final furlong average time in the field so should be running on strong. (8) GEOLJAK MAN and (5) POSA POSA are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Trot Queen (4) East Magic (6) Sinjuryu (8) Geoljak Man
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 9

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

The second division of the split maiden. It’s not a strong race so we’re prepared to take a chance on one of the two first-time starters, (2) RED WARRIOR. He was on pace throughout his heat, eventually crossing the line in 2nd place and while it wasn’t a fast time, he is not exactly facing a lot of speedy types here. He gets a great draw, and the stable is in form. (1) DOWN THE ZONE took a few goes to figure things out but her latest two have been fine efforts, finishing in 3rd place on both occasions, both at this distance and both stalking the leader. She draws well again, carries the same weight, and could well start as the betting favourite. (4) OKDONG GONGJU has the fastest time among those who have tackled the distance before. She comes in with her recent form reading consistently and looks set to be in the finish here. (3) QUEEN OF RACING and (6) GLOBAL STORM others who can compete for the minor money.

Selections(2) Red Warrior (1) Down The Zone (4) Okdong Gongju (3) Queen Of Racing
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the South Coast opener and it’s a small but tricky field. (4) HAENGBOKAN HAMAN ran 4th on debut over 1200M on April 29th having been handy to the speed throughout. She should have come on for that run, she draws nicely again and is a leading contender here. (3) GOLD SWEET has a 2nd and a 4th to her name from three appearances so far with the 2nd, both of those coming at 1200M. She ran on pace in both of those and is nicely drawn to compete for the early lead again and to be in this a long way. (5) TWO TWO BRAIN and (2) GAMDONG ENERGY came home 2nd and 3rd respectively when they raced each other at 1200M on April 22nd. Two Two Brain came from off the pace while Gamdong Energy was up with the leaders throughout although the former ultimately came off best by three-lengths. Both can be in the hunt here. Among the rest, (6) EURO STAR perhaps has the potential for improvement.   

Selections(4) Haengbokan Haman (3) Gold Sweet (5) Two Two Brain (2) Gamdong Energy
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 6

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

Fillies and mares only here and (9) CHEONMA BISANG is set to be hot favourite. Her solitary win came two starts back at this class in a similar all-filly affair at this class and distance before running 4th, again at class and distance, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. She is yet to finish outside the top five and her style means the relatively wide draw shouldn’t be a problem. She can settle back and be too strong in the run here. (2) SILVER STAR hinted at a return to form at her latest start in a similar race to this on April 2nd when settling midfield and running on for 4th. She draws well here and should be available at an each-way prince. (11) HAPPY MIX finished well back behind Cheonma Bisang two starts back but that has been her only poor showing to date. She led in her latest at class and distance on April 24th, ultimately finishing 3rd, and while drawn wide and up slightly in weights, can be in the mix today. (8) ONE MORE RUSH and (4) WONDERFUL SAM are others to consider.

Selections(9) Cheonma Bisang (2) Silver Star (11) Happy Mix (8) One More Rush
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

This is a weak maiden. (9) SINUI JEONSA raced twice without distinction around the turn of 2020 and 2021 and then did not reappear until this spring. When he did, he looked a much better prospect, showing well in a trial before running 3rd on his racecourse return over this distance on April 24th, sitting on pace throughout. With the same apprentice keeping his weight light, he is the one to beat today. (2) WORLD FOUR A will get plenty of backers. Not only is he from the Kim Young-kwan stable, but he is also a half-brother to World Day (nine wins from nineteen) and he ran a fast time in what was admittedly a fast run trial. He draws well and couldn’t ask for a better race to debut in. (8) BLUE CAPTAIN comes in having run 3rd at this class over 1300M on April 15th having led early. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and can aim for at least the places again here. (4) VICTORY NINE and (3) DOCTOR PENTAGON are others in the minor money frame.

Selections(9) Sinui Jeonsa (2) World Four A (8) Blue Captain (4) Victory Nine
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 10
(more…)

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

The weekend’s action gets underway at Busan on Friday where there are 8 races from 12:00 to 18:00. All betting locations are open. Here are the previews:

Burning Party won the TCK Trophy last month and win again on Friday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. It’s hard to look far past (4) SEOBU TEUKGEUP. She’s raced twice so far, finishing 4th and 3rd. both over this distance and registering times far superior than any of the other experienced ones in the race have come close to. She draws very nicely to be on or close to the pace and having won the Derby last Sunday, jockey Perovic should be returning to Busan with a win here. (7) POINT REIGN is the clear second-pick. It took him three trials to qualify but once he did, he ran well for 4th place at this distance on debut on April 10th. With some natural improvement for that run, he can give the favourite a race here. (10) MORNING MUSE has hinted at some ability over four starts so far, with fair times in his latest couple. (3) PURE MAGIC and (8) JANGSEONG DAERO are first-timers who in this company can be competitive first-up.

Selections(4) Seobu Teukgeup (7) Point Reign (10) Morning Muse (3) Pure Magic
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

More three-year-old maidens and another hot favourite. (6) MAN OF THE MAN trialed up promisingly a couple of times before running a strong 2nd on debut at this distance on April 17th when handy throughout and running on. He won’t need to improve much at all on that run to win here and can lead or sit handy again and prove far too strong. (1) UNJU STAR showed significant improvement at his latest outing when stepped up to 1300M on March 20th. He sat midfield and ran on well for 3rd that day and while he does come back in trip, he gets a good draw on the inside and can continue to make progress here. (10) WALTZ CHARM improved on her second start and while he does come up in the weights as a result of an apprentice not being engaged this time, he too seems be heading in the right direction. (5) LOUD COLOR looks the best of the two debut-makers at this stage, while (9) COME ON FIRST is another who can improve off a middling debut.

Selections(6) Man Of The Man (1) Unju Star (10) Waltz Charm (5) Loud Color
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

We’ll take a chance on (7) NOBLE SPIRIT here. He returned from almost six months out to run a creditable 4th over 1200M on April 22nd when settling midfield and then running on well in a fair time. He should strip fitter for that run and the additional furlong may well suit. Despite the Perovic factor, he should be available at an each-way price. Probable favourite is (3) MAGIC WHISPER. He comes in having led almost the entire way around over 1300M on April 15th, only to be beaten late on by Wonderful File. From a good draw, he should lead again and will surely be in this a long way. (2) ZET CASH has already raced over this distance a couple of time, finishing 4th on both occasions, including at this latest outing on April 8th. He tends to go right back and then run on but may be ridden handier from a better draw today. He does come up 4kg in the weights due to not having an apprenticed booked, but he should be competitive. (10) SPEED SUNSHINE has been consistent and can aim for another money finish. (9) CHOEGANG DUDEURIM, a last start 2nd at big odds, another in the frame.

Selections(7) Noble Spirit (3) Magic Whisper (2) Zet Cash (10) Speed Sunshine
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 10

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

(5) HIT THE ROAD has the joint-fastest time of any of these at the distance, and comes back in trip following a 6th place over a mile on April 29th. Two starts back he was 2nd at this distance when handy to the lead throughout. An apprentice jockey takes some weight off here and he looks very nicely in to add a second win at what will be his twenty-second start. (3) O.K. THUNDER was a good winner on debut at 1200M on Boxing Day. He didn’t reappear until April 17th when he stepped up to this class and ran 7th of twelve over 1300M. He should have benefited from that run and be much more competitive here. (4) KING PARTY was a good winner at this distance two starts back before running 5th on his first try at this class on April 29th. He draws well and can go close. (2) JIN MARK got her maiden win at start number fourteen over this distance at class 6 level on April 29th, when going right back and running on. She draws nicely, carries a light weight, and can measure up. (7) LIGHT STORY among others to consider.

Selections(5) Hit The Road (3) O.K. Thunder (4) King Party (2) Jin Mark
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(2) TOP ADELE comes in having made all to win at class and distance back in February. That was a good fourteen weeks ago but coming in fresh shouldn’t be a problem and nor should the additional 3kg on his back. He draws very well again and can lead all the way again. The most credible danger to the favourite is (4) DAEHO NURI. His solitary win came at 1300M two starts back when he came from well off the pace and he ran similarly on his first go at this class on April 17th, again at the 1300M. The step up to the mile could well suit and he can go close here. (6) B J’S TERMS returned to action on April 29th following nine months out. He ran well, finishing in 3rd place on a sloppy track over 1400M. His reward is he has to come up in class but in this company he can measure up and while he may not be a wining chance, he can place again. (1) GREEN PAPAGO and (7) DIA FORCE are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Top Adele (4) Daeho Nuri (6) B J’s Terms (1) Green Papago
Next Best7, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 6

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(1) TRIUMPH CAT returned to action after almost six months out on April 10th and he ran well for 2nd at this class and distance, settling back and running on. He comes up slightly in the weights today but draws very well and looks to be the one to beat. (2) HANBIT YEONGGWANG is yet to win in nineteen attempts but ran well for 3rd on her latest start on April 17th when just off the pace throughout and running on well over 1400M. She steps up in trip today and from a good draw, it can suit. (8) RUN FIGHTER was a class and distance winner two starts back on March 4th when on pace throughout and winning emphatically. He could only manage 6th on his reappearance on April 24th but can be given another chance here despite the high weight. (6) K K WON came home in 3rd place in that April 24th race and along with (7) CHEONGMA HWANGHU is another to consider for the minors.

Selections(1) Triumph Cat (2) Hanbit Yeonggwang (8) Run Fighter (6) K K Won
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 8

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

Fillies and mares only here. (4) MY DESTINY will be a warm favourite to win. Her sole win came at this distance and she has eleven top-five finishes from thirteen starts. At her latest outing on April 29th, she beat three of these on her way to 2nd place over 1400M racing handy throughout. She comes up a couple of kilos in the weights, but that is balanced by a better draw and she may take some beating. (5) MORNING THUNDER comes up in class following a good win at this distance on April 15th, when she ran on strongly after a going back at the start. She comes down in the weights, draws nicely and should measure up at this level. (3) K.B. BOSS was a last start winner at this class and distance, settling midfield and then running on. She comes up 2.5kg but should still be competitive on that and can go close. (2) ACHIM BIT and (9) NAMDO QUEEN are others in the hunt.

Selections(4) My Destiny (5) Morning Thunder (3) K.B. Boss (2) Achim Bit
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start4, 6, 9, 10

Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(8) BURNING PARTY comes in having won the TCK Trophy at this distance on April 3rd when she tracked the leader throughout, hitting the front at the top of the straight and then running on comfortably. That was her second win at the distance and while a couple of these have beaten her before, she looks to be the one in-form. (2) ADELE PUPIL was 2nd in that race having been handy throughout. She meets Burning Party 2kg better here and from a great draw will be a danger. (4) GEUMA KAIROS returned to action on April 15th after more than a year out. He ran 5th of nine over 1200M and should be much the better for it. He won at this class and distance before the layoff and don’t rule out a big performance here. (5) HILL MORE, up significantly in weight after a last start class and distance score, and (9) ALIVE CAPTAIN, up rapidly in class following back-to-back wins, are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) Burning Party (2) Adele Pupil (4) Geuma Kairos (5) Hill More
Next Best9, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 10

Derby Day Seoul & Busan: Race-by-Race Preview (May 15)

it’s 2022 Korean Derby Day. Click here for a full preview of the big race which is race 8 on an 11-race program at Seoul which runs from 10:45 to 18:00. There is also a 6-race card at Busan from 12:00 to 16:45. As is customary on Derby weekend, general admission to the racecourses and to OCBs across the country, is free of charge. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(9) TOUCH NINE is the one to beat here. The Fed Biz colt is yet to finish in the top two, but he has four finished between 3rd and 5th including back-to-back 4th places from his latest two, both of them at this distance. He has post fair times and has proven able to run on pace or to close. From the widest gate he will probably look to drop in and use his late speed to be too good. (2) TIZ FIGHTING was 5th behind Touch Nine at was both their latest starts on April 9th. He draws well again and can be competitive. So can (5) BIG ENERGY. Yet to win in twelve, he does have six top-four finishes to his name and was 3rd at his latest outing three weeks ago when going right back and running on. He can run into some money again. (3) KKANGDORI has shown signs recently of figuring things out with a 2nd and a 3rd among her latest four appearances. And under another light weight can run well here too. (6) CHADOL RUN another minor money contender.

Selections(9) Touch Nine (2) Tiz Fighting (5) Big Energy (3) Kkangdori
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 6

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(2) TOP CLASS will be hot favourite here. He raced twice quite ordinarily last summer and then didn’t reappear until this spring when following a positive March trial, he returned to action on April 17th, running a very good 2nd at this distance when overcoming gate eleven to lead for most of the race. He should have come on for that run, he draws a much better gate, and he is very much the one to beat. (6) M J TIME was significantly improved at start number four when leading almost the entire wat around at this distance on April 23rd, only to get passed late on by a good winner. He will be on or close to the pace again and can maintain that momentum here. (9) WONDERFUL MUSIC didn’t do too much wrong on debut at this distance on April 16th, running around in midfield and improving to 4th. That followed a good trial and he she can put in another bold showing today. There are two first-time starters and both (4) GANA FASHION and (8) WHITE CAT trialed up pleadingly, with the former quicker and more preferred first-up.

Selections(2) Top Class (6) M J Time (9) Wonderful Music (4) Gana Fashion
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 11

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

Since getting her maiden win last September, (2) SOBERANIA has been sent off as favourite all three times she has appeared in the gates. At the first of those, she ran a slightly disappointing 2nd. At the second she deposited her jockey on to the sand coming out of the barrier and proceeded without him. Most recently, she led but just got pipped into 2nd place at class and distance on April 10th. From a good draw, she goes on top again and surely it will be fourth time lucky. Should something go wrong again – and let’s face it, it might – (6) CUPID VOW could take advantage. He ran 4th behind Soberania on April 10th, running on, and he can be considered to go closer today. So too (8) K N OLD QUEEN. She was disappointing in that same race which was her first at class 5 following a maiden win over this distance in January. She is worth another chance here. (5) DIECO and (12) RAON THE WILD others in the frame.

Selections(2) Soberania (6) Cupid Vow (8) K N Old Queen (5) Dieco
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Small field in the opener on the south-coast but three of the seven look ready to win. We’ll take a chance on (4) ADELE ALLIE’S who has steadily improved across three starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place at this distance on April 10th when settling midfield and running on. In this field, she should be on pace and has every chance of winning. So too does (6) LINE BREAKER. He comes back in trip following some good performances at 1400M including last time when he was an on-pace 3rd. He is yet to finish any worse than 5th in five starts and will probably be the favourite here. (5) SPECIAL FACT came from off the pace to run a good 3rd in a slowly run race at this distance on April 15th. (1) STAR CATCH and (3) FANTASTIC YEOGEOL could potentially sneak some minor money.  

Selections(4) Adele Allie’s (6) Line Breaker (5) Special Fact (1) Star Catch
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

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

Fillies and mares only here. (9) BOOSTER ROCKET warrants favourite status on the back of her runner-up finish in a similar class and distance event on April 23rd, when she came from off the pace to work home well. She has eight top-five finishes from ten attempts and will be finishing off strongly again. (8) ADAMS APPLE might be worth a speculative additional chance here at probable good odds. She had shown plenty of ability in four starts prior to a lengthy layoff and hinted at it still being there when trialing. She has been ordinary in two starts back but following another six weeks out, she may be fitter this time. (2) BIG BIT is one who returned to form after some lacklustre performances. She comes in following a good 2nd place at this class over 1200M on April 17th and from a good gate and under a light weight, should be in the mix here. (3) SONGAM BEST comes up in class following a good win over 1200M when handy throughout and she can measure up in this company. (1) NANA LAND also comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes and she too can compete.

Selections(9) Booster Rocket (8) Adams Apple (2) Big Bit (3) Songam Best
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

He’s been out for almost a year but (6) POKPUNG JILJU still shapes as the one to beat here. He registered two smart 3rd places over 1400M before his layoff and looked very well when trialing up at the end of April. This is a small field with little to fear, and he couldn’t have asked for a better race to return in. (3) PURPLE MANGO has also had an interrupted career so far. She made one appearance in August of last year and then didn’t race again until April 22nd when she was handy for much of the 1200M before ultimately ending in 7th. She should have benefited from that run and can go closer today. (2) YEONGCHEON POWER has shown signs of figuring things out in her latest two and can go close today. (7) WONDERFUL REALTY and (8) FANTASTIC MAGIC are others in the hunt.

Selections(6) Pokpung Jilju (3) Purple Mango (2) Yeongcheon Power (7) Wonderful Realty
Next Best8, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 8
(more…)

Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 13)

Korean Derby weekend gets underway with action at Busan on Friday where there are 8 race from 12:00 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maiden fillies in the opener and it’s hard to look past (4) PYEONGHWA CHUKJE. She ran 4th on debut before improving to a narrow 2nd on her reappearance on April 8th. She was on pace both times, leading until the closing stages and from a good gate should get a soft lead here and go all the way this time. (7) LET IT GO debuted in that April 8th race and from a wide gate got well back early and only managed to run on for 7th. She should have come on for that run and with a slightly draw today, can get closer. (6) GASOK DAY has been consistent across four outings to date with the best being a 2nd place at this distance in March. She will be expected to be on pace in this company and should go close. (8) TWO TWO COIN and (9) HUIMANG PUNCH are others who can improve, the latter having looked well in an April trial.

Selections(4) Pyeonghwa Chukje (7) Let It Go (6) Gasok Day (8) Two Two Coin
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(6) QUEEN’S DAERO just about gets the nod here based on her latest outing on April 15th when she ran an improved 2nd at this distance having managed to find a handy position from a wide draw and ran on well behind Global Choego and ahead of a couple of today’s rivals.  She gets a better gate today and won’t need to improve much on that run to win this. Having never previously finished in the top five, (9) URI JOEUNNAL ran on for a surprise 2nd place at 1200M on April 17th. She carries the same light weight again and in this limited company, can run into some money again. (10) NAREUCAT comes back in trip following a solid 3rd in a small field at 1400M on April 22nd. Her running style means the draw shouldn’t be a problem and she will be in the placing hunt here. (7) B.K. HANA and (11) BAEDARI GANGHO are among other placing contenders.

Selections(6) Queen’s Daero (9) Uri Joeunnal (10) Nareucat (7) B.K. Hana
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Small but competitive field here. (8) B.J. CHIEF has mixed his form across five starts so far but has a 3rd place to his name at this distance in a fair time and comes in having overcome the widest draw to come from off the place and run 3rd over 1300M just two weeks ago. In this field, he can be on pace or handy and it could be his day. The main danger is (7) WONDERFUL BOBCAT. He is two starts into a comeback following almost a year on the sidelines and has put in two promising performances in 3rd and 5th, both at 1300M and both times running on. He could be peaking third-up here. (5) BOUNTY HUNTER comes back up in trip. He is on a run of consistent, if unspectacular performances and he can grind his way to a minor money finish again here. (9) AGAIN HELEN and (1) DOCTOR CANDY are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) B.J. Chief (7) Wonderful Bobcat (5) Bounty Hunter (9) Again Helen
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(2) DONGBU WORLD is yet to win but is yet to finish any worse than 4th on four outings so far. His first three near-misses brought him up in class and he ran well for 3rd place on his first try at this level over 1200M on April 15th when he was on pace throughout, briefly leading in the home straight. Nicely drawn, he only comes up 1kg and he can win here. (1) KKUM NEOMEO was a 16/1 winner on debut over this distance on March 25th when he made all. He is up in class here but carries the same light weight as on debut and draws the same inside barrier. It wouldn’t be a surprise were he to win again. The rest of the field are fillies (and one mare). (6) GREEN CHEETAH has won at this distance and has since registered back-to-back 4th places at this class. She can be on pace here and be in this a long way. (7) BORAMI and (8) GLOBAL YEOSIN are others in the frame.

Selections(2) Dongbu World (1) Kkum Neomeo (6) Green Cheetah (7) Borami
Next Best8, 9
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Since getting his maiden win over a mile in early March, (7) ORANGE GARAGE has raced twice at this class and distance and finished in 3rd place on both occasions, both times racing handy to the speed and in the process registering a time at the distance faster than any of the others in this field have managed. He does come up a little in the weights but in this small field will be handy again and may take some beating. (3) HOLLYWOOD QUEEN ran on very pleasingly for 4th over a mile last time out. She carries a feather weight here and should be available at an each-way price again. (2) CENTUM THOR is yet to win in fifteen starts but has been ultra-consistent with twelve to-five finishes. He has a 2nd place at this class and distance (beaten twelve-lengths by Lucas Sun) and will be there or thereabouts again. (5) ADELE BOSS and (8) WONDERFUL SECRET can also be considered.

Selections(7) Orange Garage (3) Hollywood Queen (2) Centum Thor (5) Adele Boss
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 6: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

Another Peter Wolsley-trainee goes on top here. (2) CLEAR was a winner on debut all the way back in December 2020 before missing the entire 2021 season and finally returning this January. He has improved in each of his three starts since including a 2nd place in a fast time (assisted by a muddy and fast track) at this distance on March 20th. He draws great, carries an amenable weight, and can win. (10) ALIVE STAR is the logical second pick. He was a class and distance winner on April 8th when he sat handy early before striking the front on the turn and running on for a very comfortable score. He comes up a full 6kg in the weights for that effort but has run well under today’s weight before and he can be dangerous again. (9) GOLDEN BYEORAK races for the first time since January when he was a good 3rd at class and distance. He has never finished worse than 4th and has run well first-up in the past. He can settle midfield and run on here. (12) BOLAVEN and (11) CHOEGANG LIGER also in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Clear (10) Alive Star (9) Golden Byeorak (12) Bolaven
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start2, 5, 10, 12

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

(5) BEOLMAUI STAR was an eye-catching winner on his first two stars in November and December but he has made a stuttering start to his three-year-old season finishing 3rd when an odds-on favourite in January over 1400M before having another three-months out and returning in the KRA Cup Mile on April 17th when he was on pace early but soon ran out of energy. This is a much more suitable assignment and he could return to winning ways. (8) USURP won back to back races in January and February to rapidly get promoted to this level. He comes in having run 2nd at class and distance on April 8th when on pace and will be close again today. (1) DONGTEUJA BOY is a winner at this distance and comes in off a decent 3rd place at this class on February 25th. He has had a couple of months off since then and coming in fresh and from a good gate, may suit. (6) JUST WIN and (2) GOLDEN also have place claims.

Selections(5) Beolmaui Star (8) Usurp (1) Dongteuja Boy (6) Just Win
Next Best2, 10
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

A very competitive finale in which plenty have winning claims. With a rating of 50, (8) BUSANHANG GALMAEGI is still eligible for class 4 but in taking a swing at this, comes down a full 7kg from his 4th place at this distance at class 4 level three weeks ago. He will need to improve here as he hasn’t yet posted the kind of times that some of today’s rivals have but he should have enough speed to get to the lead and he can measure up. (5) MUJEOK BULPAE and (7) NEU DAT race one another again. On April 15th Neu Dat finished 1st and Mujeok Bulpae 2nd at class and distance with Neu Dat pretty much making all. They both come up in the weights here but it’s to Mujeok Bulpae’s favour and he can overturn the form from that day. (2) FLAT BABE and (11) WORLD SOCKS among many others who can compete for at least the places.

Selections(8) Busanhang Galmaegi (5) Mujeok Bulpae (7) Neu Dat (2) Flat Babe
Next Best11, 4
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 11

Korean Oaks Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (May 8)

Sunday’s feature race is the Korean Oaks at Busan – See here for full preview – part of a 6-race card on the south-coast from 12:00 to 16:45. There are also 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Golden Power beat Chamjoeun Chingu is a tight finish to the Luna Stakes. They face off again in the Korean Oaks (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

Three-year-old maidens in the opener. (2) JAY PHOENIX has raced only once and it was back in December, but he ran well, being on pace before ultimately finishing 3rd behind a couple of useful ones over 1000M. He won a trial in early April and from a great draw, will be expected to win first-up here. (4) GRAY THOR has also raced just the once, in his case over 1200M on April 3rd when he settled handy to the lead and ran on for 6th, beating a couple of today’s rivals. That followed a promising trial and with some natural improvement, he can go close today. (10) CUPID SAFE comes in with an improved 3rd and 2nd from her latest two, both at 1300M. In the first of those she settled back in the field and at the most recent she was handy so she is versatile enough to overcome the wide gate here and can be dangerous. (6) ECHO ZONE and (8) NONSTOP ALI the best of the rest.

Selections(2) Jay Phoenix (4) Gray Thor (10) Cupid Safe (6) Echo Zone
Next Best8, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Maiden fillies and mares only here. (5) P N S CHANCE enters with a 2nd and a 3rd from her latest two, both at this distance and both times running on strongly. The engagement of an apprentice jockey brings her significantly down in the weights and she can run on strongly and go close here. The main danger is (3) GALSAEK HYANGGI. She comes in following a good 2nd place over 1400M on March 19th when handy throughout. That was her best finish in six starts to date and with similar tactics today, she looks sure to be in the finish again. It’s hard to go past those two for the quinella. (10) HAMPYEONG FIGHTER was well back behind P N S Chance at her latest outing but has hinted at ability. (8) SHINE MUSIC and (12) BARO QUEEN are among others that can be considered for the places.

Selections(5) P N S Chance (3) Galsaek Hyanggi (10) Hampyeong Fighter (8) Shine Music
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start1, 10, 11, 12

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

(3) BRAVO MAY will be the favourite here. He looks to be working back up to another win with a good 4th and 3rd from his latest two, both at this class and distance and last time out beating a couple of today’s rivals when settling midfield and running on well. He has posted decent times and from a great draw, has every chance here. (7) FIRST DREAM is yet to win in twenty-one attempts but came back to this trip last start after several goes around two turns and registered a career-best 2nd place on April 3rd when he got to the lead from gate nine and was only beaten by a very good winner. If he can be ridden forward again, he can be in this a long way. (5) PIEONADA ran adequately enough for 5th on her latest appearance on April 10th and may appreciate the step back up in trip here. (8) JISANGUN mixes his form but has placed at class and distance and along with (2) KAILLUM JEWANG, should be in the minor money hunt.

Selections(3) Bravo May (7) First Dream (5) Pieonada (8) Jisangun
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

There are a couple of tempting debut-makers here, but we shall side with experience and put (5) GREAT CAPTAIN on top. He has steadily improved across his four appearances to date, culminating with a strong 2nd at this distance on March 27th, when as has been his style after his debut, he settled just behind the early speed and then ran on well. An apprentice brings his weight down here and today can be his day. (4) STAR MATTA looked very well when winning a trial by as many as he pleased in a fast time on a dry track on April 23rd. His half-brother Lucas Sun has won a couple of races here and a bold showing first-up seems likely. The other first-timer is (1) GEUMA INFINITE. He trialed up in a different heat on the same morning and while he didn’t win the heat, he stopped the clock in exactly the same time as Smart Matta. All three half-siblings to make the track won. Returning to the experienced ones, (8) TRIPLE THUNDER and (7) MEOTJIN HARU look the best.

Selections(5) Great Captain (4) Star Matta (1) Geuma Infinite (8) Triple Thunder
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(1) HANGANG BOSS will be hot favourite to win here. He got his maiden victory two starts back over 1300M before running a strong 4th from the widest gate on his first try at this class over 1200M on March 19th when he simply couldn’t find a decent position early and had to run on from a long way back. He gets a much better gate today and the additional furlong should favour him. The logical danger is (5) SOJUNGHAN DANGSIN. Despite remaining a maiden, she comes up in class here following a few too many near-misses at class 6 level and has recently been running well over 1300M. She is another for who the slight step up in trip can suit and she should be in the mix here. The form really drops off after those two, though. (4) HAPPY SOCKS has the fastest time of any of these for the distance and that’s enough to put him into the placing frame here. (3) YEONGUNG DAEMA and (2) WHITE WING others to consider for minor money.

Selections(1) Hangang Boss (5) Sojunghan Dangsin (4) Happy Socks (3) Yeongung Daema
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(5) KING BOSS has only raced twice and has been a beaten favourite twice, finishing 4th and 3rd, both times at 1200M. He has raced prominently both times and draws nicely again to do the same here. His time at the distance is quicker than all but one has recorded, and it can be third-time lucky as market leader today. (2) CHOEGANG MUJIGAE took a few goes to figure things out but has a 2nd and a 3rd to his name now at this level. He draws nicely here and under a light weight, can be in the mix. (4) WORLD FLOWER remains a maiden but comes in off a career-best 2nd place scored at this distance on April 10th when she went right back and ran on. If she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, she can be considered here. (3) CHONGAL CHARM and (1) WONDERFUL DIGGER are others who can have minor money claims.

Selections(5) King Boss (2) Choegang Mujigae (4) World Flower (3) Chongal Charm
Next Best1, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 11
(more…)