Busan

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 25)

Plenty of action at both Seoul (11 races from 10:45 to 18:00) and at Busan (6 races from 12:15 to 16:40) on Sunday. Double Classic winner Hit Yegam goes at Busan while Complete Value, last year’s champion juvenile and one of the main players in this year’s Triple Crown series, lines up at Seoul. Both are looking to get back into form. Here are the previews:

Hit Yegam returns to Busan actions (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens to open proceedings with just two of the twelve racing for the first time but al of them tackling the distance for the first time. (7) GIANT INDY ran 4th on debut over 1000M on August 21st, having got well back from a wide draw before working home very nicely. The draw is a touch more favourable today. the extra furlong can suit, and he can win. (4) RAON AMERICAN has raced twice before and improved in the second of those to beat three of today’s rivals at 1000M on August 21st. From a nice draw, he can be on pace here and should go close. (3) SINUI BANJEON also improved at start number two, coming from off the pace to run 2nd. She is another who may appreciate the additional distance today and rates as a big chance. (2) JAEWOO SIDAE and (12) THUNDER BRAVO others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Giant Indy (4) Raon American (3) Sinui Banjeon (2) Jaewoo Sidae
Next Best12, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 12

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

After an indifferent debut, (7) DAECHEON BEAUTY has raced well in his subsequent four outings and comes in here ready to win. He has the fastest time of these at the distance by a wide margin and can race handy or from behind. He should make the breakthrough. As for the next best, it’s hard to look past (9) WONDERFUL MUSKET.  True he had a howler two starts back but otherwise his recent form reads better than any except the favourite with a 3rd and a 4th among his latest three. He can get a bit far back but should run on to a place. (8) SPEAR QUEEN ran 2nd at this distance two starts ago before resuming normal service and beating just two home on her re-appearance. That 2nd though is enough for her to be in the money frame in this company. (4) BARAMSAL and (1) GEOSEON GANGJA others to consider.

Selections(7) Daecheon Beauty (9) Wonderful Musket (8) Spear Queen (4) Baramsal
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

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

More maidens here with nine of the eleven fillies. There are two standouts. (9) HANGANG DOLPUNG has been consistent across his five starts so far which include three top four finishes and some good times at this distance. Last time out he sat to the front of midfield before running on for 4th ahead of a couple of today’s rivals, and he has solid chances here. (3) SURE WIN will probably start as the favourite. After running close a close 2nd and 5th in two goes at 1000M, she then got a bit far back before running on for 5th on her first try at this distance on August 27th. She is nicely weighted, draws well, and has every chance. (6) P N S THE KING was 5th behind Hangang Dolpung two starts back before running a solid 3rd over 1400M three weeks ago. An apprentice claims 4kg and that should bring him right into contention. (10) GUK HYANG and (5) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE among others in the frame.

Selections(9) Hangang Dolpung (3) Sure Win (6) P N S The King (10) Guk Hyang
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Having impressed behind Captain Yankee in a trial, (3) HONOR CAL was well backed on debut on August 7th. He was on pace for much of that race before ultimately weakening to 7th of eleven. He should have come on for that though and can be given another chance here. (11) SIMON TOP GUN comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, her best to date. She doesn’t get the best of the draw here, but the same apprentice jockey keeps the weight light again and she can place again. (7) PATRIOT returns to action a full fifty-three weeks after his debut last September. He ran well for 5th in that solitary start and looked well when running 2nd in a fair time in an August trial. He will obviously need this, but he couldn’t have picked a more winnable race to return in. (5) PUNGAN JOHWA and (4) TAKE ADELE others who could potentially compete for the minor money.

Selections(3) Honor Cal (11) Simon Top Gun (7) Patriot (5) Pungan Johwa
Next Best4, 12
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

Competitive race. We’ll go with (7) HANGANG HERO who enters with good results from her latest three, including a runner-up finish from her latest three starts. She led for part of the way around last time out on September 3rd, before ultimately finishing 3rd and can be on pace and in this a long way again. (5) ECHO ZONE will probably start as favourite. He comes in following a 2dn and a 3rd from his latest two and has posted the fastest time of any of these for the distance. From a good draw, he should be on pace and may be hard to hold out. (8) PERFECT TIME and (1) QUIET CHARM came home 3rd and 4th when they raced each other over 1400M on August 27th. Both should be competitive again and Quiet Charm comes into a much better gate this time around. (11) BEST BIG BANG another in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Hangang Hero (5) Echo Zone (8) Perfect Time (1) Quiet Charm
Next Best11, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 8

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

Fillies only here and it’s hard to go past (7) DOCTOR OSCAR. An emphatic winner at class 6 level over 1000M in July, she then ran an on-pace 3rd on her first try at this class and distance on August 28th. She comes up just 1.5kg on that and should be leading from gate to wire. (9) TWO OF US was a good winner over this distance in June and while she could only manage 6th of eleven when favourite for her first try at this class over 1300M at the end of July, the margins weren’t huge, and she is worth another chance to get closer today. (1) AGAIN TOUCH returns to action for the first time since January but she comes into contention by virtue of having made all to win a trial in a good time just last week. So long as she didn’t leave her race there, she has a real chance of a bold showing. (3) BAEK GU and the up in class following a maiden win (5) LOUD COLOR are others to take into account.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 23)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday where there is an eight-race card from 12:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener and (1) BUDDY BUDDY will be hot favourite. He was an on-pace 3rd on debut in August 7th in a fair time and won’t need to have come on much for that in order to win here. (6) SOLEDAD has raced twice previously, settling back and running on for 4th and 5th placed finishes in decent times. A similar run here will put her in the finish. There are two first-time starters and (8) YEOSU FIGHTER led for much of the way around in his trial, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place. He can be on pace here and if he can bring that trial form to the races, he can go close. The other debut-maker is (5) I WILL THE STAR and he trialed up fairly too, participating in two heats with positive results. As for the others with experience, (4) PEGACORN looks the most likely to improve.

Selections(1) Buddy Buddy (6) Soledad (8) Yeosu Fighter (5) I Will The Star
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 7, 8

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens, this time with four of the eight racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience though and the likely favourite (5) SOUTHERN JOY. After a positive trial, she ran 3rd on debut on August 28th, sitting handy throughout. She should be on pace here too and with some natural improvement from that run, could be hard to hold out. Among the first-timers, (2) BEST DUO won a trial when leading throughout. It wasn’t especially fast but he wasn’t asked to do too much and has every chance of a bold showing first up here. (7) BARAMBARAM trialed fairly enough and the jockey/trainer combination ensures he’ll get plenty of backing. (3) WONDERFUL ANDOVER and (1) NINE FORCE ONE are others with experience who can improve.

Selections(5) Southern Joy (2) Best Duo (7) Barambaram (3) Wonderful Andover
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

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

(2) SUNSHINE STAR beat three of these on his way to 2nd place over 1400M on September 2nd. He was a long way behind a good winner that day but has a 3rd place to his name over this distance and from a good draw, looks very much the one to beat here. (10) DOCTOR PENTAGON has picked up significantly in recent outings and enters here following a front-running 2nd place over 1200M on August 26th. He tackles the mile for the first time but there is no reason it can’t suit and he is the main danger to the favourite. (7) JEONGMUN CHITA was a touch disappointing on his latest appearance in August but had been hinting at ability prior to that and looks worth another chance in this company. (1) MEOTJIN HARU and (4) AGAIN HELEN are other sin at least the placing frame.

Selections(2) Sunshine Star (10) Doctor Pentagon (7) Jeongmun Chita (1) Meotjin Haru
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start5, 7, 9, 10

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(8) BETELGEUSE was an impressive winner on debut in July before running 5th of eight in the Rookie Stakes over 1200M on August 28th. The step up in trip today can suit and he is the one to beat. (5) SMILEY LARRY has a 2nd place and two 3rd places from his three outings so far up to 1300M. He has achieved those both from on pace and coming from behind and he too should appreciate the extra distance. (7) S. L. KING has had an interrupted career but comes up in class having won over 1400M on August 28th when he made all. Back in the dim and distance past, he also notched a win over today’s trip and he should measure up in this company. (10) TRIPLE THUNDER and (4) FINAL FRONT are others who can go close.

Selections(8) Betelgeuse (5) Smiley Larry (7) S. L. King (10) Triple Thunder
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start5, 7, 8, 10

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

(8) CAPTAIN GOLD is yet to finish any worse than 3rd and followed up his all the way win over 1200M in July by almost repeating the trick on his first attempt at this class, ultimately finishing 2nd over 1300M on August 26th. The engagement of an apprentice takes his weight down here and he may take some beating. (11) J.S. DAY comes up in class following an all the way win of her own at start number two on September 2nd. She too is nicely weighted and while she may need a touch of luck at the start from the wide draw, if she can find a decent position, she can go close. (3) HAMPYEONG MAN comes up in class and in distance following consecutive runner-up finishes over 1000M, leading both times. He draws well to lead again, comes down in the weights, and can be in this a long way. (5) TRIPLE JILJU and (7) PEOPLE POWER are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(8) Captain Gold (11) J.S. Day (3) Hampyeong Man (5) Triple Jilju
Next Best7, 6
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 11

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

A class and distance winner two starts back, (2) HAMYANGEUN SANSAM overcame gate twelve to beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 4th place again at class and distance on September 4th. He has to contend with the same 58kg today but he comes into a much better gate and has every chance of returning to the winner’s circle. This is a good race though with only two of the twelve having finished outside the top-five in their respective latest outings. (1) HALLOWEEN PARTY won well over 1300M at class 5 level in July before running 2nd in a fast race over 1200M at this level on August 19th. She’ll be on pace from the inside gate here and has solid claims again. (10) QUEEN ALLIE led from the gate until the closing stages at class and distance on September 2nd, ultimately finishing 2nd in a fast time. She comes up a little in the weights and draws a little wider but is very much in this. (8) HANSEN ICHEON, up in class, and (6) LINE BREAKER among plenty of others in the hunt.

Selections(2) Hamyangeun Sansam (1) Halloween Party (10) Queen Allie (8) Hansen Icheon
Next Best6, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 10

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Fillies and mares only here and it’s a quite a wild mix. We’ll take a chance on (4) ALPHA THOR one of the first new imports to be registered since restrictions on them were lifted. The Sharp Azteca filly fairy bolted up in trial at the start of this month and if she brings that form to the races, she will be hard to hold out. (8) UNBREAK returns to action a full forty-weeks since her debut last December. It was a very good debut as she won over this distance and she looked well when trialing up in August. If you prefer existing and recent form, then (1) GOOD SOCKS is the one. She comes up in class having made all to win over this distance on August 7th but still looks nicely in here and draws well. (10) NAMED and (12) MENI AGAIN came home 1st and 2nd when they raced one another at class and distance on August 21st and both should be in the mix once more.

Selections(4) Alpha Thor (8) Unbreak (1) Good Socks (10) Named
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

Busan Race 8: Class 3 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Competitive race to conclude with and (7) GALLANT WARRIOR perhaps has the slight edge. He has run 3rd and 4th in two efforts at this class, both over 1800M and both times leading. He comes slightly down in trip and is well weighted under today’s handicap conditions and has every chance. (6) UNJU HERO comes up in class following a runner-up finish over this distance on August 19th when starting slowly and running on. He comes down significantly in the weights here and that should be enough to bring him into contention. (9) DOCTOR FAITH is a front-runner who has proven competitive at both class and distance including beating a couple of these last time out on his way to 4th. (2) CATCH THE SKY and (3) FLAT BABE are others to take into account.

Selections(7) Gallant Warrior (6) Unju Hero (9) Doctor Faith (2) Catch The Sky
Next Best3, 12
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 9

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 18)

There is plenty to get stuck into this Sunday as Seoul runs an 11-race card from 10:45 to 18:00 while Busan has 6 races from 12:15 to 16:40. Here are the previews:

Two weeks after Winner’s Man won the Korea Cup, racing returns to Seoul (Pic: KRA/Ross Holburt)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile filly maidens with eight of the twelve racing for the first time. We will side with experience and (10) RAON FOREST, who has two starts under his belt, having run 2nd on debut in July before following up with a 5th place on August 13th both over this distance and both in decent times. He draws a touch wide again but can settle handy and it can be third-time lucky. The pick of the first timers is (6) MAESTRA. She ran a solid 2nd in her heat in a fair time and Moon Se-young’s presence on board is in her favour. (4) FOUR ACE finished 6th of eight on debut on August 14th, however, the time was fast and the margins not big and he should have benefitted from the experience. Returning to the debut makers, (12) ARA MOA and (2) SMART SOCKS are others to consider.

Selection(10) Raon Forest (6) Maestra (4) Four Ace (12) Ara Moa
Next Best2, 8
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 8

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

(7) JAKDUKONG is yet to finish in the top two but enters with her recent form reading well with a 3rd and two 4th place finishes in her latest three and has good times for this distance. She has tended to get a bit far back in her races but can be ridden handy here and can win. (9) TOP POSITION has hinted at ability over six starts so far. She finishes off her races well so the wide draw shouldn’t be too problematic, and she can be aiming for a career-best showing. (1) FLYING GOLD returns to action for the first time since April. His best run to date came on his final run before the layoff when runner-up over 1200M. He looked well in his trial in late August and should go well first-up here. (2) BOLD AGAIN and (6) GENTLE RULES are among others who can go close.

Selection(7) Jakdukong (9) Top Position (1) Flying Gold (2) Bold Again
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 9

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

(7) ROSE GOLD will be the favourite here based on his last start effort on August 14th when he sat handy and then ran on strongly, denied by the favourite by a narrow margin on the line. That continued a run of improving results and he can crown that with victory here. (9) DAESEUNG GAON is yet to finish in the top two but comes in off a solid 3rd place at this distance on August 13th when coming from well back. A good apprentice takes 2kg off her back and that can bring her into contention. (5) GOLD KAISER returns to action for the first time since January. She has two 3rd places from her four starts but will be backed here based on her good trial on August 26th when she crossed the line 2nd in a good time. If she brings that form to the races, she won’t be far away. (6) SECRET KING should be on pace and can improve on his debt performance while (8) CHEONMA CHAT is another in the hunt.

Selection(7) Rose Gold (9) Daeseung Gaon (5) Gold Kaiser (6) Secret King
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open proceedings on the south coast and four of the twelve are racing for the first time. There is some useful experience entered though and (9) THUNDER FURY will be the favourite. After a good trial showing, he ran a solid 3rd place on debut in a good time over 1000M on August 7th. He settled back and ran on that day and the additional furlong should be to his benefit.  (12) MOTHER MOUNTAIN also put in a good 3rd on debut on August 21st. She must contend with the outside gate today, but the same apprentice keeps the weight very low, and she can be competitive again. (11) ADELE HORANGI also comes in off a 3rd place on debut. He was a long way behind the first two home but should have come on for the experience and can get closer this time. The pick of the newcomers is (5) WONDERFUL VOW. She led for most of the way around in her trial, crossing the line in front in a fair time. (10) I’M KING IJI another who can improve on his debut effort.

Selection(9) Thunder Fury (12) Mother Mountain (11) Adele Horangi (5) Wonderful Vow
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start5, 7, 10, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(8) KINGS EYE has been consistent across his four starts so far with a 3rd place at 1200M his best. Last time out on August 20th he overcame gate ten to beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 4th in a good time over this distance and he could well have too much for this lot. (5) GOMANARU showed significant improvement at start number two over this distance at the very end of July, coming from midfield to run 4th.  She can settle back again here and be running on strong at the business end. (11) SHOOTING REVERSE has a 2nd place to her name among three starts so far. She has been doing her best work late on in her races so far so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem and the slight step up in trip may assist. (3) TANSAN and (6) GEUMA WITTY among plenty of others with placing claims.

Selection(8) Kings Eye (5) Gomanaru (11) Shooting Reverse (3) Tansan
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start1, 6, 9, 10

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 16)

Racing is back. After a one-week hiatus, the action kicks off again at Busan on Friday where there are eight races from 12:50 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan’s Back.

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Racing gets back underway with a field of maiden juvenile fillies with all but two racing for the very first time. The experience is favoured. (5) GREAT MISS won a trial before debuting on August 7th when she settled midfield and then ran on strongly for 2nd place, well beaten by a good winner but also herself well clear of the 3rd placed finisher. The time was good, and she won’t need to improve much to win here. Pick of the first timers looks to be (3) FLYING TOUCH. He improved significantly in the second of two trials, running a solid 2nd to the experienced Seobu Cat in a fair time. If he brings that for to the races, he’ll go close. (2) CUQUEMAN should have come on for his debut on August 21st when he drew the widest gate but ran solidly for 5th. (12) BLUE ICON, who beat Cuqueman in a trial, and (11) JANGSAN DEFI are other debut-makers who can impress.

Selections(5) Great Miss (3) Flying Touch (2) Cuqueman (12) Blue Icon
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 11

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

We all love Hansen and (4) I LOVE HANSEN will be favoured to score here. After an inauspicious debut, he improved at start number two at this distance on August 21st, sitting handy and running on for 3rd in a fair time. If he continues to improve here, then he is the one to beat. (6) VICTOR BASIUM put in a couple of encouraging front-running performances six months apart back in 2021. He reappears here for the first time since last November but comes in having been through two trials in mid-August and earlier this month, running good times in both and on the front both times. He can go well first-up here. (7) SPECIAL HERO has shown improvement across her three starts so far and ran 4th to I Love Hansen’s 3rd over this distance on August 21st. That was her first race since February, and she was ridden further forward than in her previous two. She’ll be close to the pace again and is a chance. (2) TEUKGEUP CAMP and (1) EURO STAR others in the hunt.

Selections(4) I Love Hansen (6) Victor Basium (7) Special Hero (2) Teukgeup Camp
Next Best1, 9
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

It’s hard to look too far past (4) ADELE FLY here. He comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on August 19th with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He has the fastest time for the 1400M among these and today he can go one better. The logical main danger is (3) ILGANG DAERO. He steps up in trip for the first time following three solid showings over 1000M which yielded finishes between 3rd and 5th. He comes up a bit in the weights but finished off those races well and today may suit. (2) STAR MATTA has three top-five finishes, one of them at this distance. He comes in off a solid 4th over 1200M last time out and should be aiming to crack the top-three today. (8) CHONGAL CHARM and (6) NAREUCAT others to look out for.

Selections(4) Adele Fly (3) Ilgang Daero (2) Star Matta (8) Chongal Charm
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 8

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

A big field here but (1) O.K. THUNDER will be a warm favourite. He has four top-four finished from five starts so far including a good runner-up finish in a fast time at this distance. From the inside gate, Franco Da Silva should be able to pick his spot, and he can be running on strong at the finish here. (8) WIND CROSS is yet to win in eight attempts, but the colt has only missed out on top-four on one occasion. He comes in off a good 2nd place at this class over 1300M on August 7th when he overcame gate eleven and he should be right in this again. (4) GOLD TAP has run fairly in three attempts at this class following his maiden win. He carries his fair share of weight here but can be in the finish. (11) DOCTOR KONGSUNI is another who has mixed his form, but he can be running on from wide here. (6) KING BOSS another in the placing frame.

Selections(1) O.K. Thunder (8) Wind Cross (4) Gold Tap (11) Doctor Kongsuni
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 11

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

(3) JEONGDEUN-RO enters with recent form reading well, posting good times at this level in competitive races. She draws very nicely here and with there not being much speed in this race, could potentially get to the front and go all the way. (7) GEUMA UNO is yet to win in four starts but comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes over 1200M and 1300M. He’ll be on pace here and the trainer/jockey combination means that he will almost certainly start as the betting favourite. (12) JOSEPHINE QUEEN had a luckless day at the office at this class and distance on August 6th. Her previous form was good though and while the draw does her no favours here, she can be given another chance. (9) FRIGATE BIRD races for the first time since April but looked well when winning a trial, albeit back at the end of July. (6) MY STAR another who can enter the calculations.

Selections(3) Jeongdeun-Ro (7) Geuma Uno (12) Josephine Queen (9) Frigate Bird
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start3, 7, 8, 12

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

(9) JEONGMUN DRAGON gets the nod here based on his class and distance win on August 19th, when he settled back, before gradually improving and running on to win emphatically. He comes up 5kg for that performance (it would be 6kg were it not for an apprentice claiming 1kg) but he looks to have the potential to strike again. (7) B.K. HANA ran 3rd in that race, her first try at this class following a solid class 5 win over 1300M in July. She meets Jeongmun Dragon much better int the weights today and can get closer. (3) COLORFUL WIND also comes in having won at class and distance at his latest start. He wasn’t quite as impressive as Jeongmun Dragon but doesn’t come up so much in the weights either and he can be in contention here. (5) GLORY KING and (11) ALPHA SONGDANG among others who shouldn’t be discounted.

Selections(9) Jeongmun Dragon (7) B.K. Hana (3) Colorful Wind (5) Glory King
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 10, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 4 (1600M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

(9) BABEL DREAMER enters off very solid recent form and has finished ahead of plenty of today’s rivals. He comes up 3kg on his latest at class and distance on August 19th, but an apprentice jockey takes the edge off and while he isn’t the flashiest of performers, he can grind away and that might be enough to see him home here. (7) K K WON is another who doesn’t exactly win out of turn but looks to be nicely in here. He enters off a runner-up finish at class and distance on August 6th when handy throughout and while he too comes up a little in the weights, he can be very competitive. (6) DAEJI SPECIAL comes up in class following a win over 1300M at class 5 level last time out. He is up in trip too but should be equal to both challengers. (5) WINNER’S TIME and (2) TRAFFIC MARINE others in the hunt for the minors.

Selections(9) Babel Dreamer (7) K K Won (6) Daeji Special (5) Winner’s Time
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 7

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

Good race to conclude. (4) DONGTEUJA BOY comes up in trip and also significantly in weight on his win at this class over a mile on August 21st. He has ten top-three finishes from twelve starts so far and should be able to contend with the additional furlong today. (5) ORANGE GARAGE comes up in class following three consecutive runner-up finishes over this distance at class 4 level. He comes down in the weights today and can measure up. (7) ALIVE CAPTAIN ran 2nd to Dongteuja Boy over the mise on August 21st. He too comes up in the weights but can be in the finish again. (3) YEONGCHEON SOLEMIO and (9) GALAXY ROAD are among plenty of others who have a shot at getting a place.

Selections(4) Dongteuja Boy (5) Orange Garage (7) Alive Captain (3) Yeongcheon Solemio
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

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

The draws for the international Korea Cup and Korea Sprint took place at Seoul Racecourse on Thursday ahead of the big races on Sunday. The weekend’s action though gets underway at Busan on Friday where there are 8 races from 12:10 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens to open with and four race for the first time. (4) YEONGGWANGUI TANK is the probable favourite. He has raced twice so far, improving in the second of them when he was runner-up in a good time over this distance. Experience can be important in these kinds of races and he has solid claims to go one better today. (3) BUILD UP has also raced twice, posting decent times in both when running 3rd and 4th. Expect him to be close to the pace here and he too can continue the solid start to his career. As for the first-timers, (6) ATLAS and (8) VERLUC came home 1st and 2nd in fair times when they trialed up together on August 5th and Atlas especially will have backers for a bold showing. (1) HOTFLEX perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(4) Yeonggwangui Tank (3) Build Up (6) Atlas (8) Verluc
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

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

Filly and mare maidens and (9) GAMDONG ENERGY comes in having run a strong 3rd on August 7th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the proves. That was her second placing finish and an apprentice jockey keeps the weight nice and light again. She has as good a chance as any. (10) J. S. DAY debuted in that August 7th race, running a solid enough 5th. Given the stable, she will be expected to improve for that run and may well start as favourite. (8) LET IT GO has two 3rd place finishes from her latest three, including last time out when she sat handy and ran on over 1300M. She is another who benefits from an apprentice keeping the weight low and she can go close again. (6) URI JOEUNNAL and (4) WONDERFUL SMARTY among others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(9) Gamdong Energy (10) J. S. Day (8) Let It Go (6) Uri Joeunnal
Next Best4, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 9, 10

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

(5) DOCTOR KHALIFA will be a warm favourite here having made steady progress across his five starts so far, culminating with a 3rd and a 2nd from his latest two, both at this distance and both times beating a number of today’s rivals. He comes in under the same weight, draws well, and this time can win. (11) FASHION FORCE ONE ran 3rd behind Doctor Khalifa over this distance on August 7th, her second consecutive 3rd place finish. The draw does her no favours here but with a bit of early luck, she can be in this again. (2) SUNSHINE STAR was 4th in that same race. He was first-up that day following five months off and can strip fitter here and get closer. (1) YEONSEUNG GLORY and (10) MEOTJIN HARU are others who can enter the calculations.

Selections(5) Doctor Khalifa (11) Fashion Force One (2) Sunshine Star (1) Yeonseung Glory
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

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

(10) MAGIC CLASS made all to comfortably win at start number two over 1000M on July 29th. She comes up in class and slightly up in distance too, but there is no reason why either of those things should be a problem and she has solid claims to win again. The main danger is (1) HUIMANG PUNCH. A winner at this distance three starts back, she has since run twice at this level, registering a useful enough 4th place last time out when sitting handy. She draws well and should go close. (11) GRAPHENE KING is another up in class following a maiden win, in his case when making all over 1200M on August 7th. The margin was eye-catching and while just like Magic Class, he may need a bit of luck from the wide gate, he has every chance of a repeat. (12) OCEAN STORM and (7) WORLD FLOWER among others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(10) Magic Class (1) Huimang Punch (11) Graphene King (12) Ocean Storm
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start1, 10, 11, 12

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

(7) RAP VERSA impressed in trials and then duly obliged on his racecourse debut on August 6th, sitting handy early then taking up the running midway through over 1200M before going to score by as many as he pleased. He comes up in class and marginally in trip too but the manner of that win suggests there is more to come and he will be big favourite to strike again. (1) INDY CHOICE has been working himself back towards another win. He comes in after two front-running placings at this class over 1200M and from a great draw can get an easy run early on here and can be a danger. (6) WIDAEHAN HAMAN made all to win over 1200M on debut on July 29th. The time was as good as Rap Versa’s and she will be expected to measure up in this company. (2) SMARTY DOLPUNG and (11) TRIPLE JILJU among others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Rap Versa (1) Indy Choice (6) Widaehan Haman (2) Smarty Dolpung
Next Best11, 5
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 12
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Seoul & Busan Rookie Stakes Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 28)

The first big juvenile races of the year take place at Seoul and Busan on Sunday afternoon, with both tracks hosting their “Rookie Stakes”. Both also have class 1 action. There are 10 races at Seoul from 1):45 to 18:00 and 7 at Busan from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the ten racing for the first time. The experience here is quite good though, especially (8) RAON THE HIGHMAN. After winning a trial, he ran out a narrow 2nd on debut over this distance on July 24th in a fast time. A repeat of that run should see him winning here. (3) LUCKY POWER has raced twice with a 3rd and a 2nd, the latter in a fast time. He draws well here and can go close. (9) GEUMA ALLURE similarly improved at start number two, running 3rd having led in the home straight on July 30th. She too can continue her development here.  As for the first timers (4) JUMONG CHEONHA won his trial in a good time and looks to have the best chance here. (7) SUPER FINISH also showed a bit of speed when runner-up in the second of his two trials and can go well first-up.

Selections(8) Raon The Highman (3) Lucky Power (9) Geuma Allure (4) Jumong Cheonha
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens. (8) NAOL SNIPER has a 4th and a 2nd in two starts so far, running on well both times. He looks to have more improvement in him and can be winning here. (1) DUSON CLASSIC is the main danger. She has a 2nd and a 3rd from her two appearances, the latter when she led until the final furlong coming home in a fast time on a fast track. She draws very nicely and will be in this a long way once more. There are three debut-makers and (3) NANOMETA is the clear top choice among them He won a trial in late July in fine style, sitting handy and then running away from the rest. If he brings that form to the races, he will go close. (9) LAST PITCH and (4) GWANCGCHIGI are others in the frame.

Selections(8) Naol Sniper (1) Duson Classic (3) Nanometa (9) Last Pitch
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 8

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens open things on the south coast with all but two of the nine racing for the first time. The two of them showed ability on their debuts, in the same race on July 29th, and will have plenty of backers here. (2) CHOICE RUN is set to be favourite, overcoming gate eleven that day to get to a handy position and then come hoe 3rd in a fast time. He draws much better this time and can win. (8) SOLEDAD ran on well for 4th in the same race, finishing five-lengths behind Choice Run. She should have come on for the experience and can get closer today. (7) HONOR LORD caught the eye in trials. The heat wasn’t a fast one, but he crossed the line a full twelve-lengths ahead of anything else and he will have backers on debut. (5) KF OGONG and (9) VEREUDA, the latter a trial winner, are other first-timers to consider.

Selections(2) Choice Run (8) Soledad (7) Honor Lord (5) KF Ogong
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 9

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

(8) FLASH THUNDER was an all the way winner over this distance at class 6 level two starts back before running 4th on July 23rd on his first try at this level, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. He has the fastest time of any of these at the distance and should have enough early speed to get to the lead. (9) NEMO PRINCE comes up in class having won at start number two over 1000M on July 30th when he settled back and ran on. The extra furlong can suit and under a light weight, he should be competitive. (7) MAIN OF KING is yet to win but has placed in two of his latest three outings, all at 1300M. He’ll be challenging Flash Thunder for the early lead and should be in this a long way. (2) G STAR and (1) MAESTRO are among others in contention for at least a place.

Selections(8) Flash Thunder (9) Nemo Prince (7) Main Of King (2) G Star
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start7, 8, 11, 12

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

Fillies only here. (3) WISH LUCK has made steady progress over her six starts so far culminating with a 3rd place over 1300M on July 29th. She tends to get a bit far back in her races, but she looks nicely in here and today can be her day. (4) AREUMDAUN INYEON will be expected to improve off her 6th place on debut. She was favourite that day following a trial win and given the trainer/jockey combination, it will be no surprise if she is again here. (2) WONDERFUL OCEAN was a close 2nd two starts back and then an 4th on her latest on July 29th. She comes into a nice gate here and can go close. Plenty of others enter with their recent form reading relatively well and (10) PRETTY CHARM and (11) NAREUCAT look capable of placing.

Selections(3) Wish Luck (4) Areumdaun Inyeon (2) Wonderful Ocean (10) Pretty Charm
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10
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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 26)

It’s the final weekend of the summer racing schedule and Busan opens proceedings on Friday with an afternoon/evening card of 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00. Probable three-year-old Champion Captain Yankee, who won the KRA Cup Mile and the Minister’s Cup, goes in the concluding race 7. Here are the previews:

Captain Yankee is back at Busan on Friday (Pic: KRA)

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with six of the nine racing for the very first time. While we usually go with experience, debut-maker (7) ARTHUR KING IJI went through two trials, significantly improving in the second of them when jumping out beautifully and responding well when asked for an effort, crossing the line in a fast time. He will probably be the favourite and if he brings that form to the races, he can win. On the experience side, (9) K.AI ran a good 3rd on debut on July 24th, having been on pace throughout. He draws wide but has shown good gate speed so can get forward again. (2) RELEASE EDITION came home in 3rd place in that same race, just half a length behind K.Ai. He sat midfield and ran on and should have come on for the experience. (8) ILGANG DAERO has run fairly across two starts so far and along with debut-maker (6) GLOBAL SARANG, is another to consider.

Selections(7) Arthur King Iji (9) K.Ai (2) Release Edition (8) Ilgang Daero
Next Best6, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 9

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

(5) LOUD COLOR has made good progress over three starts culminating in a strong runner-up finish last time out at this distance on July 31st, well beaten by a good winner in Geuma Passionate, but a good four-lengths clear of the rest and in a time faster than any of the others here have achieved. She won’t need to improve much on that to win. (12) GOLDEN POINT comes back slightly in trip following a good 2nd place at 1300M on July 29th, again well back behind a good winner but in a good time. That was just his fifth start and while he draws wide, he doesn’t need to lead and should be competitive again. (10) ALPHA V has shown significant improvement since returning from four months out with a 3rd and a 2nd, both at this distance. Others have posted faster times, but she looks to have more improvement in her and Perovic climbs aboard. (11) WONDERFUL DIGGER and (7) STORM AGAIN are among others in the frame.

Selections(5) Loud Color (12) Golden Point (10) Alpha V (11) Wonderful Digger
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 5, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) GEUMA PASSIONATE led from gate-to-wire for a nine-length win on debut on July 31st, beating Loud Color, who was due to run in race 2. He comes up in class here but there is little for him to be intimidated about in this field and he will be a short price to maintain his 100% record. (9) BAEK GU has plenty of experience at this level and is rarely too far away, regularly picking up a cheque. She comes in off a solid 3rd place over this distance on August 7th and shouldn’t be too far away again. (11) HANEUL JILJU ran out a winner at this class over 1300M on August 6th, overcoming a similarly wide gate as today to score well. She only comes up 2kg for that and should be in the mix again. (7) PURPLE MANGO and (5) JEONGDUN-RO are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(4) Geuma Passionate (9) Baek Gu (11) Haneul Jilju (7) Purple Mango
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 11

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

Good race with two leading contenders. (5) CAPTAIN GOLD broke through at start number two on July 17th, making all over 1200M. He comes up in class and slightly in trip, but neither should be an issue, and he has every chance of winning again. (4) WORLD FOUR A also comes in off a maiden win, also over 1200M, in his case at start number four but at this class and with a couple of today’s rivals back down the track behind him. He carries his fair share of weight today but has never finished any wors than 3rd and he should be in the hunt here too. (3) POKPUNG JILJU comes back in trip following a 5th place over a mile on his latest start. He is yet to win but that was his first time outside of the top-three and he has run fast times at this distance. (7) KKUM NEOMEO can have a line drawn through his latest couple and given another chance here, while (10) NOBLE COWBOY is another who can enter the calculations.

Selections(5) Captain Gold (4) World Four A (3) Pokpung Jilju (7) Kkum Neomeo
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 5: Class 3 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 75 Million

Another very good race, featuring four last start winners. (8) ACE SOLOMON has won two of his latest three and five from twelve in total with his latest run ending in a class and distance win when handy all the way. An apprentice jockey engaged keeps his weight nice and low and another win could be on the cards here. (5) H. DAY shapes as the main danger. She’s been super consistent across her seven starts so far and comes in having won over this distance in a fast time on August 7th when handy throughout. She comes up in class here but has every chance of measuring up. (9) DAEJI CJOICE has mixed his form but comes back in trip following recent outings around two turns, including an unsuccessful tilt at the final leg of the Triple Crown. He has won at this distance and can be given a chance here. (10) FLAT BABE and (3) TTEUGEOUN MANNAM are others who must come into the calculations.

Selections(8) Ace Solomon (5) H. Day (9) Daeji Choice (10) Flat Babe
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

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

This is probably the most competitive race of the day and it rally is one where you can stick a pin in it. (1) SEONGSIL SIHWA is a winner of two from five and comes in following a runner-up finish over class and distance on June 5th. She comes up 3kg in the weights, and runs for the first time in twelve weeks, but from a good gate, both of those can be overcome. (10) HANEUL GANGJA got a dreadful start in his latest outing on July 22nd, but still rallied well to finish 5th. He comes up in trip to the mile for the first time and there is no reason why it can’t suit. (3) CHOEGANG LIGER comes in under a good weight and a good gate. He should be competitive here. (4) HAENAM HAMMER, a good 2nd last time out, and (12) KING BROTHER others in the minor money hunt.

Selections(1) Seongsil Siwha (10) Haneul Gangja (3) Choegang Liger (4) Haenam Hammer
Next Best12, 7
Fast Start4, 8, 9, 10

Busan Race 7: Class 2 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 90 Million

(7) CAPTAIN YANKEE could be running in the Korea Cup next week but instead the champion three-year-old, who won two legs of this year’s Triple Crown, stays back in Busan for this class 2 race late at night on a Friday that he should easily win. He carries a lot of weight, but he is a potential star and will be heavy favourite. It’s a fine field for the class. (10) CALM STRONG comes in off winning the KNN Cup over a mile on July 17th. The filly has loads of potential and should be competitive here. (5) JESSIEUI KKUM comes up in class having won at this distance on July 17th. He is nicely weighted here, and he can measure up. (9) WINNER STAR was found wanting on the Triple Crown trail but can be better here, while (6) CLEAR, up in class having finished 2nd to Jessieui Kkum, is another in the hunt.

Selections(7) Captain Yankee (10) Calm Strong (5) Jessieui Kkum (9) Winner Star
Next Best6, 12
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 10

Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 21)

Back to normal for the Sunday racing this week with both tracks hosting daytime meetings. Seoul has 10 races from 10:45 to 18:00 while Busan has 7 from 11:35 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with eight of the eleven racing for the first time. We’re siding with experience though and (4) WONPYEONG TOWN, a grizzled veteran in this company with two starts behind him, will be favourite. After running a solid 5th on debut in June, he followed up with an on-pace 3rd on July 16th in a good time. He can lead again here, and it can be third-time lucky. (10) ULTRA GALAXY was 4th in that July 16th race, making his debut. He should have come on for the experience and with Moon Se-young remaining aboard, will have some backers to improve. (3) SAENAE TOWN is the pick of the first-timers. He went through two trials, improving in the second of them, crossing the line as runner-up in a fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he has every chance of making a big impression. (11) GIANT INDY and (8) COMPLETE FORCE are other debut-makers who caught the eye in trials and may go well.

Selections(4) Wonpyeong Town (10) Ultra Galaxy (3) Saenae Town (11) Giant Indy
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

More juvenile maidens with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. Once more we side with experience and (6) ULTRA SOCKS, who races here for the third time and came close to making all on July 23rd, only to go down to a late and narrow victory. He’ll be leading here again, and this time can go all the way. (8) DRAGON STAR is the second favourite. He won a June trial before placing 3rd on debut on July 17th over this distance, settling in midfield and working home well. He won’t need to improve much to be in the finish again. (12) HANGANG YEOUL also seems on the right trajectory. After an inauspicious debut, he improved to 4th at start number two on July 24th and despite the wide gate, should be competitive again. Among the debut-makers, (4) RAON AMERICAN posted the fastest trial time and be considered first-up. (9) CHALLANHAN POKPUNG took three goes to qualify but looked significantly better in the latest of them and is another who can be competitive.

Selections(6) Ultra Socks (8) Dragon Star (12) Hangang Yeoul (4) Raon American
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 8, 12

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens with all but two of the twelve racing for the first time. That experienced pair will be on the top of most tickets though, especially (2) HAMPYEONG MAN. He led for much of the way around on debut over this distance on July 3rd, ultimately finishing in 2nd place in a good time, albeit well behind a good winner. He draws nicely here to lead again and should have too much. (5) HWANGHU FIGHTER was also well back behind a good winner on his debut on July 17th, but he settled midfield and ran on pleasingly enough for 4th. With some natural improvement he can get closer today. Regarding the first timers, (7) DREAM OF QUEEN showed ability in easily winning her trial in a fair time with an on-pace showing and she looks the most likely to challenge here. (6) MOTHER MOUNTAIN and (12) CUQUENAN others who can make an impact first-up.

Selections(2) Hampyeong Man (5) Hwanghu Fighter (7) Dream Of Queen (6) Mother Mountain
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 11

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

Filly maidens here. (3) MONEY TAP comes in off her best finish to date when 4th over 1200M in a similar all-filly maiden on July 24th, settling back and running on. She has posted fair times at this distance and has as good a chance as any here. (6) SARANG DAMOA returned from six months out to run a promising 4th over 1400M on July 30th sitting handy throughout. She should strip fitter for that run and should be in the finish today. (7) GENTLE RULES has the fastest time among these for the distance. She got a long way back from a wide draw in that race but still ran on pleasingly enough and from a better gate today can improve. (10) BEST MAD CAM was a much-improved runner-up last time out over 1200M. The same apprentice jockey keeps her carried weight nice and low and brings her into contention. (12) MAGIC MOCCASIN another in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Money Tap (6) Sarang Damoa (7) Gentle Rules (10) Best Mad Cam
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 12

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

(2) PEOPLE POWER is set to be warm favourite for this maiden. She improved to 2nd on her second outing on July 24th when settling handy, dropping back and then running on over 1000M. She comes up in trip for the first time and from a good gate, there is every chance that it can suit. (6) MYEONGSEONG CHARGE races for the first time since last November. She had hinted at ability with a 4th and a 5th from wide draws in her first two starts and she looked well in her trial at the end of July. She will obviously need the run, but the opposition isn’t intimidating. (12) RADAR returns to action for the first time since March. She too showed ability, especially with her on pace runner-up finish on debut in January and she crossed the line first in a fair time in her trial last month. (4) MAGIC HILL has been knocking on the door of the minor money places and will be on pace with a chance to be in this a long way. (10) I LOVE HANSEN can improve on an inauspicious debut having previously trialed well.

(more…)

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

It’s the penultimate weekend of the summer racing season and that means Busan runs an afternoon/evening card on Friday with 7 races from 15:35 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Friday

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

A competitive maiden to open with. (5) GEUMA UNO debuted unspectacularly last December but didn’t race again until this July. In two starts back, the now gelded runner has a 5th and a 2nd, both at 1200M and both times running on. The additional half-furlong can suit and third-up, he may be peaking. (7) SUPER CRACK is the main danger. His recent form reads well including his last start runner-up finish over 1200M when handy throughout. He can drop in behind the early leaders again here and play a big role in the finish. (1) PUNGUN JOHWA has similarly been improving of late, running 3rd on her latest appearance on July 24th. From the inside gate, she could get the lead here and be in this a long way. (6) MAIN BRIDGE raced once last December, finishing 3rd over 1000M. He looked well in a July trial and can go well first-up. First time starter (3) DASI YEONGGWANG among others to consider.

Selections(5) Geuma Uno (7) Super Crack (1) Pungun Johwa (6) Main Bridge
Next Best3, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 8

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

(5) S. L. KING remains eligible for class 6 because while he has won a race, practically making all over a mile back in April 2021, that was during the reduced prize-money era. After that win, he didn’t run again until this July 15th when he led for much of the way over 1400M before weakening late on for 6th. He should strip fitter for that run and can win here. (3) JEONGMUN CHITA has made good progress over three outings to date, stepping up to this trip and running a good 3rd two weeks ago in a time quicker than any of the rest of these have posted at the distance. He comes into a better gate today and should go close. (8) ADELE FLY came from well off the pace to run 5th ahead of S. L. King on that July 15th race. With a better start he can go closer. (7) GEUMA SMARTY ran an encouraging 4th on debut over 1300M on July 15th and along with (2) FANTASTIC YEOGEOL is a place chance.

Selections(5) S. L. King (3) Jeongmun Chita (8) Adele Fly (7) Geuma Smarty
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 8, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(8) BARBELL POSEIDON may be one of just three maidens in the race, but he is favoured to change that status. He has five top-three finishes from ten outings to date and ran a very solid 2nd on his first try at a mile on July 22nd. He can settle midfield or better here and can prove too strong late on. (6) JEOKDO JEONSA was 3rd in that same race, just a length behind Barbell Poseidon. He draws a better gate today and even comes down slightly in the weights and can be competitive again. (1) MILK DAY is up in class having won over 1400M on July 29th. The mile can suit and from a great draw, he can measure up in this company. (2) GRAND CHUKJE gets an apprentice claim and can see his recent run of good form continue. (12) GEUMA INFINITE another in the hunt.

Selections(8) Barbell Poseidon (6) Jeokdo Jeonsa (10) Milk Day (2) Grand Chukje
Next Best12, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

(8) HANSEN ICHEON made all for a dominant seven-length win over this distance on July 24th. He comes up in class here but the manner of that victory was such that he has little to fear here and will be a short-priced favourite to score again. (11) SINUI JEONSA was a similarly emphatic winner at class 6 level on July 1st. He too is up in class and while the draw is not ideal here, the same apprentice who won on him that day keeps the weight very light and he should be competitive at this level. (6) FLYING REGAL had a poor day at the office on his first try at this level last month. His form prior to that was good though and he is worth another chance here. (9) FUNNY LIFE and (1) COLOR WIND are others who can be considered for at least a place.

Selections(8) Hansen Icheon (11) Sinui Jeonsa (6) Flying Regal (9) Funny Life
Next Best1, 5
Fast Start6, 8, 9, 11

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

Competitive race with no fewer than five of the twelve coming in having won their respective latest starts. They include (3) HALLOWEEN PARTY, who is up in class following a good front-running score over 1300M on July 24th. He comes down in the weights, draws a good gate and looks to have potential for more progress. (1) FLASHY CHARM ran out a class and distance winner two starts back before finishing 3rd in a fast race on July 29th. He draws well here, an apprentice keeps his weight light and he can be a big danger. Draw a line through the latest effort from (12) GLORY KING. That was his first outing since last December and he should be fitter for the run. Prior to his layoff he was a class and distance winner and despite the wide draw, should be competitive here. (4) B. K. HANA and (7) JEONGMUN DRAGON among others with claims in a race of many chances.

Selections(3) Halloween Party (1) Flashy Charm (12) Glory King (4) B. K. Hana
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start2, 9, 10, 12

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

(11) UNJU HERO beat four of today’s rivals on his way to victory over 1400M at this class on July 8th. He comes up significantly in the weights today but has won at this distance before and also ran 4th in the KRA Cup Mile. He’s the one to beat again. (2) OREUDA was second-favourite that day and duly ran 2nd, his third runner-up finish in his last four starts. He draws well to be on pace and should be able to give Unju Hero a stern examination here. (5) HANEUL JEONSA comes up in class having won well over 1300M on July 10th. A previous try at a mile might have been a bit much a bit soon and he can be given another chance here under a light weight. (4) UNJU BULPAE comes up in class following back-to-back runner-up finishes. He is down significantly in the weights and can be considered. (12) BABEL DREAMER another in the frame.

Selections(11) Unju Hero (2) Oreuda (5) Haneul Jeonsa (4) Unju Bulpae
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start2, 7, 10, 11

Busan Race 7: Class 3 (1800M) Allowance / KRW 75 Million

(7) ADELE CROWN and (2) GALLANT WARRIOR came hoe 2nd and 3rd when they raced one another at class and distance on July 8th with three lengths between them and Adele Crown just missing out on victory by a nose. They both come up in the weights here but can fight it out between them for the win. (10) DUNCAN returned to action on July 17th following five months out and ran well to finish 3rd at this class and distance, racing on pace throughout. Even with just ten runners, the widest gate at the 1800M start isn’t ideal but he should have come on for that run and can be a danger again here. (3) WONDERFUL SECRET is still class 4 eligible but looks nicely in here, well drawn and under a lighter weight than in recent outings. He can sneak a place. (9) YEONGGWANGUICHUKJE another in the placing hunt.

Selections(7) Adele Crown (2) Gallant Warrior (10) Duncan (3) Wonderful Secret
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 10

Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 7)

Busan flies solo on Sunday with a bumper 15-race card from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with all but two racing for the first time. That pair showed ability though. (3) JEULGEOUNYEOJEONG won a June trial and was sent off as an odds-on favourite on debut on July 17th. She jumped out well but couldn’t get to a good winner, ultimately ending in 2nd. It was a fast time, she should have come on for the experience, and she won’t need to improve much to win this. (6) BUILD UP sat midfield in a small field on his debut on July 10th. He ran a solid 3rd in a fair time and with some natural improvement can be close here. As for the first-timers, (7) GREAT MISS led all the way in her trial, crossing the line almost a second ahead of anything else. If she brings that form to the races, she’ll go close. (4) THUNDER FURY and (9) PEGACORN, the latter a winner of a slow heat, are others who can make a bold showing first-up.

Selections(3) Jeulgeounyeojeong (6) Build Up (7) Great Miss (4) Thunder Fury
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start3, 4, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1000M) Allowance / KRW 60 Million

The second division of the juvenile maiden, this time with four of the nine having raced previously. This time we’ll side with a newcomer in the shape of probable favourite (9) PAN STAR. She showed prominently in her trial, working through the line well in a good time. She won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (2) JEONGMUN SPECTER also showed well in his trial, leading for most of the way and crossing the line 2nd in a fair time and from a nice draw can make a bold showing first up. (4) HANEUL JEWANG is another newcomer who ran 2nd in his trial and can make an impact. As for the ones with experience, (5) THUNDER CROWN ran a decent enough 4th on debut and should have come on for the run while (8) WONDERFUL ANDOVER came through a tricky maiden and can also improve.

Selections(9) Pan Star (2) Jeongmun Specter (4) Haneul Jewang (5) Thunder Crown
Next Best8, 3
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

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

Maiden three-year-olds. (1) GRAPHENE KING will be favourite and is the one to beat. He improved to finish runner-up on his second career appearance over 1400M on July 8th when leading almost the entire way around. He comes back in trip, draws nicely on the inside, and may take some beating. (2) GAMDONG ENERGY has mixed her form across six starts so far but has put in some fair performances at this distance. She can settle on pace or handy here and should be in the finish. There are four debut-makers and among them (9) HONOR CAL is the one who caught the eye in trials. She led for most of the way around before crossing the line 3rd in what was a fast run heat. If she brings that form to the races, she won’t be far away. (6) SPICE ECTON is another debut-maker. He sat handy in his trial, running on for 2nd and while it wasn’t a fast time, he can be competitive in this company. (4) STAR MATTA perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Graphene King (2) Gamdong Energy (9) Honor Cal (6) Spice Ecton
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 7, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(4) SMILEY LARRY settled back on debut over 1200M on July 17th before running on and finishing 3rd. He comes up slightly in trip today which may suit and with some natural improvement can have winning chances here. The main danger is (10) PURE MAGIC. He has been consistent across his three starts so far with a best of 2nd over 1200M in June. He has been on or close to the pace on each occasion so a wider draw today perhaps isn’t to his advantage but there isn’t much speed in this race so he may be able to get to the front without much difficulty anyway. If he can, he will take some going past. (7) ETERNAL ACE was 5th behind Pure Magic last time out. That was his third time finishing in that position but in this company, he should be getting closer today. (8) SIMON TOP GUN and (6) ORANGE STAR are other possibles for the minors.

Selections(4) Smiley Larry (10) Pure Magic (7) Eternal Ace (8) Simon Top Gun
Next Best6, 9
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(1) CHAMP GO returns to action for the first time since March. He has a 2nd place to his name at this distance which he recorded in January in a time faster than any of the others here have recorded. He comes down 3kg on his last start, draws well and while he didn’t offer too many clues in a trial two weeks ago, at his best he can win this. (3) DOCTOR KHALIFA has steadily improved across four outings to date. He overcame gate ten last time out on July 22nd to run a close 3rd over this distance and makes a quick return. He can settle just behind any early pace and run on. (8) SUNSHINE STAR returns to action for the first time since March when he ran a much improved 3rd over a mile. He trialed up adequately three-weeks ago and has a chance first-up here. (2) NAREUCAT and (10) QUEEN OF SPIRIT among others in the frame.

Selections(1) Champ Go (3) Doctor Khalifa (8) Sunshine Star (2) Nareucat
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start1, 5, 6, 10

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

(3) EURO STAR has hinted at ability across her seven starts to date and comes in off a 4th place finish over a mile on July 22nd. She jumped out well that day and was handy throughout and in a race where the form is patchy to say the least, she has as good a chance as any. The drop in trip may allow her to overturn the form on (10) DANGDAE BLUE, who ran 2nd in that July 22nd race. That was a significant improvement for him and one that he can build on here despite the inconvenience of the widest gate. (4) HORAENGI returns to racing for the first time since December. She trialed up very nicely two weeks ago and she does have the fastest time of any of these for the distance. She can go well first up. (9) JEONGMUN CHITA and (5) THE PRINCESS look to be other potential improvers.

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