Busan

Queens’ Tour Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 21)

The Queens’ Tour Fall & Winter series kicks off on Sunday when fifteen fillies and mares take their chance at Seoul in the Jeju Governor’s Cup (1400M KOR-G3). There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Jeulgeounyeojeong seeks to defend her Jeju Govenor’s Cup title on Sunday (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

After running 5th on debut, (1) JIJON BULPAE was an improved 3rd at start number two on August 23rd when handy throughout. He comes into a better gate today and can be expected to be on pace and to go all the way. (9) GEOLJAK TIARA was 5th on debut over 1000M on August 23rd, running on well. She should have come on for the run and the step up in trip can suit. Similarly (11) GEOMEUN SUP was a fair 4th on debut on August 16th, also at 1000M. She too should have derived benefit from that and can be a danger here. (2) CLUTCH MAN and (4) AMOS STAR are others who can improve.

Selections(1) Jijon Bulpae (9) Geoljak Tiara (11) Geomeun Sup (2) Clutch Man
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 12

Seoul Race 2: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(7) GLOBAL TIME returned from seven months off to run 2nd at this class and distance on August 24th, showing on pace throughout. He should strip fitter for that run and has every chance of going one better today. (1) NAOL PASS was a winner on debut over 1000M in July before finishing 5th of ten in the Rookie Stakes on August 17th. She drops back into more amenable company here and with Moon Se-young staying on, she will have plenty of backers to win here. (2) WONDERFUL DONGCHON has two 2nd places and a 4th in three tries at this level since getting his maiden win at this trip back in January. He comes in fresh after a three-month absence, but an apprentice keeps his carried weight down and he draws well. (5) P N S OHOH and (3) MUNHAK FIGHTER others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Global Time (1) Naol Pass (2) Wonderful Dongchun (5) P N S Ohoh
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 6

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A /  KRW 30 Million

Fillies only here and there are three standouts. (9) GHOST GALE enters off a close runner-up finish at this distance on August 24th when she was on pace throughout. For what it’s worth, she has the fastest time among these for the distance and with a good start, she can go all the way. (4) RAON PARANOMA has improved across her outings, culminating in 2nd at this trip on July 13th when she led for most of the way. She has had ten weeks out so comes in fresh but can be a big player. (10) FOX TROT rounds out the main trio of chances. She too enters off a runner-up finish in her latest, over 1400M on August 17th. The wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she can be challenging late. (11) ROAD TO SPEAR and (3) OUTSTANDING GIRL others in the frame.

Selections(9) Ghost Gale (4) Raon Paranoma (10) Fox Trot (11) Road To Spear
Next Best3, 7
Fast Start4, 7, 8, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with a debut-maker and (10) FUNNY WILD. The Bayern colt was an eye-catching trial winner in July, settling midfield before pulling away to score in a quick time. It’s taken him a while to get to the races. but he doesn’t appear to have missed much work since the trial, and he can win first-up. (4) PORT MORE was a trial winner in late June and then debuted in the Rookie Stakes in August. That proved a hard ask and he only beat three but should have come on for the experience and this is more suitable. (7) WORLD GOAT and (5) QUEEN PERFECT both ran on late on their respective debuts and should prefer the extended trip today. (12) BULBIT GANGJA is another debut maker who hinted at ability in a trial.

Selections(10) Funny Wild (4) Port More (7) World Goat (5) Queen Perfect
Next Best12, 1
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(4) HIT FLY returned from more than three months out and ran 2nd in a quick race at this class and distance on August 24th, coming from well off the pace. She should strip fitter for that run and will be strongly favoured to go one better today. (3) MORNING WONDER was a maiden winner at 1200M on April 4th and then ran a very close 2nd on her first try at this class and distance at the start of June. She has had sixteen weeks off since then but has been back in work since late August and can go well first up. (1) STEEPLE was a winner at start two over 1000M on August 23rd, showing on pace throughout. She is up in class and in trip but can measure up. (6) WONDERFUL N.B. and (8) WONDERFUL SEEKING among other place chances.

Selections(4) Hit Fly (3) Morning Wonder (1) Steeple (6) Wonderful N B
Next Best8, 7
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 9

Busan Race 2: Class (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) SERYEONDOENWISUN took a couple of goes to figure thing sou tut has a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two at 1200M and 1300M, coming from off the pace both times. The slight step up in trip can be just what he needs to make his maiden breakthrough. (2) HOLY NIKE has made steady progress across three starts so far with his latest his best when 2nd at 1200M on August 31st, overcoming the widest gate, albeit it to be well beaten by a good winner. He comes into a better gate today and going one better isn’t impossible. (8) NEVERSTOP HEEMANG returns to action for the first time in more than a year and having looked well in a trial in August, can be considered on an each-way basis. (4) RACE MARINE and (5) DELEKOOMDA others in the placing frame.

Selections(9) Seryeondoenwisun (2) Holy Nike (8) Neverstop Heemang (4) Race Marine
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an afternoon/evening card of 8 races from 15:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maiden fillies with all but three racing for the first time. (6) GOLDEN EMPIRE looked very accomplished in her trial, settling back before running on very pleasingly to cross the line on top in a quick time. If she brings that form to the races, she will be hard to beat. (1) YURIM CHANGA led for much of her heat, ultimately crossing the line a close 3rd in a decent time. From the inside gate and with a good start, she can be in things a long way on debut. (9) I’M THE ONE and (3) WORLD EAGLE CAT have raced before, debuting together on August 22nd. They ran 3rd and 5th respectively and should have come on for the experience. (4) HIGH BEAUTY is another first timer who looked to have ability in trials.

Selections(6) Golden Empire (1) Yurim Changa (9) I’m The One (3) World Eagle Cat
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After an ordinary debut, (7) HEUIMANG DANBI was a much-improved 2nd at start number two in a quick race over this distance on Augus 10th having raced handy throughout. Third-up she can be peaking, and she can go one better today. Also third-up is (3) STRAWBERRY QUEEN. After running 2nd on debut, she was away awkwardly at start two in the Rookie Stakes on August 17th, ultimately finishing 6th behind Wild Park. With a better start and from a good gate, she can be a danger here. (1) DOLPHIN KICK is a little more experienced and with two 4th places and a 3rd from her latest three, she seems to be figuring things out. Solitary debut maker (10) AIR CITY, along with (9) WORLD TREE are others who can play a role.

Selections(7) Heuimang Danbi (3) Strawberry Queen (1) Dolphin Kick (10) Air City
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start7, 9, 10,11

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(4) KKEUTPAN YEOGEOL is yet to win in nine attempts but has been steadily getting closer with two runner-up finishes from her latest two outings, both at this class and distance. She likes to race on pace and is drawn very well to do so, and today she should be going one better. (2) JJAK SARANG enters off her maiden win which came at this class and distance on August 22nd when leading all the way and beating three of today’s rivals. She comes up 2kg in weight but is nicely drawn to be on pace again and she could repeat. (6) DOCTOR MATTERS was a close 2nd to Jjak Sarang in that August 22nd race in what was a return to form after a couple of ordinary efforts. Seo Seung-un climbs on for the first time and she will have plenty of backers to overturn that form. (1) OASIS WICKY and (7) CHOEGANG TA BON are other place chances.

Selections(4) Kkeutpan Yeogeol (2) Jjak Sarang (6) Doctor Matters (1) Oasis Wicky
Next Best7, 8
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

In five total starts, (5) NICE BUDDY is yet to finish outside of the top three and enters off a win over 1300M on August 24th when he was on pace all the way. That brings him up in class, as well as slightly up in trip, and while he doesn’t get a weight drop, he can measure up. (3) NAEPYEON hasn’t won for a long time, but he comes in here with recent form reading very well with three consecutive 2nd places form his latest three, all at this class and distance. Franco gets on for the first time and from a good gate, they could go one better. (10) BEOLGYO WANGCHO will need a line drawn through his latest couple including a go at class 3 last time. He is a class and distance winner though and brand-new apprentice Nam Jeong-hyeok has a chance here. (11) FANTASTIC BLUE and (6) UNJU CHALLENGE are others to consider.

Selections(5) Nice Buddy (3) Naepyeon (10) Beolgyo Wangcho (11) Fantastic Blue
Next Best6, 8
Fast Start5, 7, 9, 10

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Juvenile Series Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 14)

Juvenile Series races headline both Seoul and Busan this Sunday. Seoul hosts 11 races from 10:35 to 18:00 while at Busan there are 6 races from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Yongam Sesang returns for the first time since winning May’s Sports Chosun (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens. (8) LIVE STAR was 2nd on debut over this distance on July 29th, racing handy throughout. He should have come on for the run and he is the one to beat here. (9) DONGGANGUI STAR went through plenty of trials before debuting on August 16th when 3rd over 1000M coming from well off the pace and running on well.  The step up in trip can suit and he shapes as the main danger. (11) EAN FIRST was a fair 4th on his debut at big odds over this distance on August 3rd. He is another who can be finishing strongly. (2) BLUE RAIN and (4) REVERENCE have raced twice each, and both placed on their respective debuts.

Selections(8) Live Star (9) Donggangui Star (11) Ean First (2) Blue Rain
Next Best4, 5
Fast Start4, 5, 8, 10

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) HEUNGHAENG DOLPUNG has a 6th and a 4th in two starts back, both at 1300M, following a three-month layoff. Third-up he can be peaking and the step up to two turns for the first time can suit.  (2) YEONMYEONGUI SUNGAN has been knocking on the doors of the places for a while and is another who may appreciated a bit of distance. His best finish of 4th came from on the pace and from a good draw, he may well aim to lead early here. (1) STREET RUBY needs a line drawn through his latest, but he was 2nd over this distance two starts back in June and that’s enough for him to be in the reckoning here. (8) PROOF and (3) P N S PA are other place chances.

Selections(5) Heunghaeng Dolpung (2) Yeomyeongui Sungan (1) Street Ruby (8) Proof
Next Best 3, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 8

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Four last start winners among the nine-strong field. (2) WHITE CARLA returned to winning ways with an all the way score in a fast time over 1300M on August 23rd. He comes up 3.5kg here but draws well to lead again and he is the one to beat. (5) JEULGEOUN SANGSANG is up in class having secured his maiden win at this distance on August 17th, racing on pace. He is down 3kg in weight and can measure up in this company. So can (1) PERFECT DANAEUN. He races for the first time since July 26th when he beat Jeugeoun Sangsang on his way to a narrow win. Another up in class and down in weight, he is third-up three months off and should be in the finish. (7) GIDAEHARA and (9) SOMETHING DARK are others in the frame.

Selections(2) White Carla (5) Jeulgeoun Sangsang (1) Perfect Danaeun (7) Gidaehara
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (10) ALL THE BEST was ordinary on debut over 1000M in July but was an improved 3rd at start number two at 1300M on August 9th, racing on pace. She is drawn a touch wider than ideal but Seo Seung-un’s booking catches the eye and she can be the best of these. (8) CHAMPUI SIDAE has a best of 2nd in three starts over 1200M. She has been doing her best work late each time and the step up in trip can suit. (9) MAMBO SIDAE has similarly been running on in her races and 1400M can be to her benefit. (7) CRUELLA and (4) SINCHEON FREEDOM are others who can be considered on at least a place line.

Selections(10) All The Best (8) Champui Sidae (9) Mambo Sidae (7) Cruella
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start4, 6, 8, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only. After running 4th on debut, (2) VOSTOK was a winner when stepped up to this trip at start two on August 17th, leading all the way. She is up in class but down in weight and Ruan Maia will be hard to beat from the front here. (5) CHARMING QUEEN has a win and two runner-up finishes from three starts so far, with her latest 2nd being her first try at this class in a very similar filly race over 1300M. The slight step up in trip can suit, and she may well start as the betting favourite. (8) LUCKY DAY was a close 3rd at this class over 1300M on August 24th and under a light weight, she can be close again. (1) WONDERFUL PASS and (4) NAEGILUI ACE, the latter looking for a hat-trick of wins, are others who can be in the frame.

Selections(2) Vostok (5) Charming Queen (8) Lucky Day (1) Wonderful Pass
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 5

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 15:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with six of the ten racing for the first time. (4) GEUMA ADEPT was the best of the newcomers in trials, leading all the way in an August heat and crossing the line plenty of lengths to the good in a fast time. If he brings that form to the races, he can win. (6) GEUMSEONG was sent off as favourite on his debut on August 15th at this distance but despite racing handy throughout, was a well-beaten 3rd. He should have come on for that run and can be closer here. Those two will be a long way clear at the top of the market. (9) HWARYEOHAN SUNGAN did nothing on debut in July but has since been back to trial and can improve here. (2) TOP RANKER and (7) ANY WIN other place chances.

Selections(4) Geuma Adept (6) Geumseong (9) Hwaryeohan Sungan (2) Top Ranker
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start4, 6, 7, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(5) HIGH LEVEL has looked like she is figuring things out in his latest two when 2nd and 3rd, the latter at this distance on August 15th when coming from midfield and beating three of today’s rivals. She won’t need to improve much on that to win this. (8) CHAMP KING was a slightly disappointing 5th in that race but he has shown consistency with three top five finishes now from four starts, He can sit handy here and can finish strongly. (4) PERFECT HAN was another also-ran in the August 15th race. He was sent off as favourite after a runner-up finish at this distance on July 18th and with Seo Seung-un aboard for the first time, he will have plenty giving him another chance. (7) REMENT and (10) BREEDO CAPTAIN can be considered on a place line.

Selections(5) High Level (8) Champ King (4) Perfect Han (7)  Rement
Next Best10, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) ACE SUN was 2nd on debut over this distance on August 9th, showing close to the pace throughout. He was a full ten-lengths behind the winner but should have come on for the run and from a good draw he can be on pace again and go one better. After an inauspicious debut, (9) SILVER STONE has scored a 2nd and a 3rd in two subsequent efforts, both over this distance and both times coming from off the pace. Given her racing style, the wide draw won’t matter, and she is a chance here. (7) WINNING TREE raced twice in late winter with a 2nd on debut his best. During his layoff, he has been gelded, and he looked well enough in an August trial to suggest he can be a player first up here. (10) BAEKPAL BOEUN and (5) TIGER UPPERCUT others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Ace Sun (9) Silver Stone (7) Winning Tree (10) Baekpal Boeun
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(10) GRAND MORE was 2nd on debut in May but unseated his rider before a scheduled start at the end of June and had a gallop by himself. He reappeared on August 9th when he ran out a ten-length winner (beating Ace Sun, who we saw in race 3). He is up in class, but the manner of that victory suggests that there can be more to come. (9) TIGER MONSTER was an all the way winner on debut over 1000M on August 15th, scoring comfortably in a quick time. He is up in class and in trip, but he is down 3kg in weight, and he can measure up. (3) APDOJEOK NUMBERONE was a winner at this class and distance on August 10th and while up in weight, can be in the mix again and will probably be favourite. (6) HANEUL POKPUNG was very close 2nd in that August 10th race and along with (7) GREEN SHARPEY, is another in the hunt.

Selections(10) Grand More (9) Tiger Monster (3) Apdojeok Numberone (6) Haneul Pokpung
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 11

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Korea Cup & Sprint Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (September 7)

It’s international day at Seoul on Sunday with the two International G3 races. We’ll have full runner-by-runner guides to those in a while but for now, here are the comments for every race. There are 10 Sunday races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00, and 6 at Busan from 11:55 to 16:05:

There will be new names on both the Sprint and Cup Trophies this year (Pic: KRA)

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens and (2) GOOD MORNING COME will be a short price favourite. He debuted over 1000M on August 2nd and overcame the widest gate to run on for 2nd place, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. He draws much better this time, the additional furlong can suit, and he will take some beating. (1) AGAIN GOOD MAN was 4th on debut in that same race, similarly coming from off the pace. He previously raced forward in his trial and given today’s draw shapes as an early front-runner. (3) POWERFUL PARTNER is the only one in the field who has raced twice, improving to 3rd at start two and she may have a fitness edge on plenty here. (8) EAN PERFECT and (9) MIGHTY BEAT hinted at ability on their respective debuts.

Selections(2) Good Morning Come (1) Again Good Man (3) Powerful Partner (8) Ean Perfect
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 11

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Not the strongest of maidens. After an inauspicious debut, (8) MUJEOK HAMDAE was an improved 5th at start two over this distance on August 3rd, coming from off the pace. With the same kind of progress here, he is a chance. (10) BEST RAZI has had an interrupted start to her career making three starts up to March this year with the best being her latest when 3rd. She hasn’t raced since but she looked well enough in an August trial and couldn’t hope for a sifter race to return in. (4) RAON SNIPER briefly showed on pace on debut on August 3rd before dropping to 6th. She should have come on for that run and be in things longer here. (6) JINJUUI SIMJANG and (5) ROAD TO STAR are perhaps the best of a limited rest.

Selections(8) Mujeok Hamdae (10) Best Razi (4) Raon Sniper (6) Jinjuui Simjang
Next Best5, 11
Fast Start4, 7, 10, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1700M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(11) HEEMANGBAND remains a maiden after twelve attempts, but she has nine top five finishes including a last start 2nd at this class and distance on August 3rd. She has placed in all four of her tries at 1700M, the wide draw shouldn’t matter as she has a strong finish on her and today can be her day. She will need to overturn the form on (1) BLACK SIDAE, who won that August 3rd race, breaking his own maiden at start fifteen. He comes up 3.5kg in weight but draws well to get to the lead and a repeat is possible. (2) BEOLGYOWISU beat a couple of these on her way to 3rd place in another class and distance race on August 3rd and she can be there or thereabouts again. (10) GANGCHEOL DRAGON and (9) SEUNGNI BAROWS are others in the hunt.

Selections(11) Heemangband (1) Black Sidae (2) Beolgyowisu (10) Gangcheol Dragon
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with three of the nine racing for the first time. Like most, we’ll side with the only one to have raced twice already, (7) OASIS GIJEOK. After running 7th on debut, he was an improved 3rd at start two over this distance on August 10th, racing handy and beating a couple of today’s rivals. Third up he can be peaking, and he is the one to beat. After a couple of decent trials, (5) DREAM RACER was a fair 5th over 1000M on debut three weeks ago. He should have come on for that run and can go closer here. (8) BREEDO SOL was 6th on debut behind Oasis Gijeok and can have derived benefit for the run. With the first timers not looking inspiring in their trials, (3) VORTEX and (4) SHINING ONE are perhaps more likely to have improved from their respective debuts.

Selections(7) Oasis Gijeok (5) Dream Racer (8) Breedo Sol (3) Vortex
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 8

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only here. (10) SAMJEONG LADY has won two of her last three, most recently at this class over 1200M on July 13th when leading all the way. She comes up 3kg in weight and she has the challenge of the widest gate, but she can win again. (3) BISANG BELL got her maiden win over this distance two starts back and then ran 2nd on her first try at this class over 1400M on July 26th, coming from off the pace. She only comes up 1kg in weight and she looks very nicely in here. (7) GLOBAL GISANG is up in class having got her maiden win at start number two over this distance on August 13th. She is down in weight, CC stays on, and she can measure up. (4) SPECIAL FORCE and (8) RAON SILENCE among other place chances.

Selections(10) Samjeong Lady (3) Bisang Bell (7) Global Gisang (4) Special Force
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 8, 10

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Fillies only in this maiden. (1) I AM HAPPY was 3rd on debut over 1200M on August 15th having raced on pace throughout. She should have come on for that run, she draws very well to be on pace again and those who back her here, should be happy after the race. Perhaps not with the dividend though, because she will be a short price favourite so if we are looking to get her beat, (9) DOCTOR CARA might be the one. She does mic her form but going on her 2nd place two starts back she can be in this, and Munro climbs on for the first time. (6) ANN BUNNY races for the first time since last December before which she had a best of 3rd on debut. She ran 2nd in a quick trial at the beginning of August, and if she brings that form to the races, she can be in the mix. (10) SEONGSIL WORLD and (8) GREAT STAR other place chances.

Selections(1) I Am Happy (9) Doctor Cara (6) Ann Bunny (10) Seongsil World
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies (and one mare) only here. (3) I AM GO has underwhelmed in her latest couple, but she has placed at this class and won at this distance. She draws well, and Kozzi returning to the ride gives her as much chance as any. (2) POETIC NUBI is yet to win in seventeen attempts but enters in the most consistent form among these with a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two. She carries a light weight and while she may find one too quick again, she should be in the finish. (10) CRAZY MARI is another maiden, but she comes up in class here after three placings in her latest three. She is down a full 4kg in weight and that should bring her into the reckoning. (4) JERAQUEEN and (8) MENI SHARK others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) I Am Go (2) Poetic Nubi (10) Crazy Mari (4) Jeraqueen
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 10

Busan Race 3: Class 5 (1600M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 5)

It’s International Weekend in Korea! Racing gets under way with an 8-race afternoon and evening card at Busan on Friday from 15:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens in the opener with five of the nine racing for the first time. We generally prefer experience in these kinds of races, and this is no exception as (2) DOCTOR ACE has raced twice, improving to 3rd place at start number two over this distance on August 9th. He draws well and third up he can be peaking. The best of the first-timers is (4) YURIM ACE. She was an on pace trial winner in mid-August and if she brings that form to the races, she will be in the finish. (8) SAENAE HILL has run 5th and 4th in her two outings to date and like Doctor Ace, she can be fitter here. Newcomers (1) TOHAMSAN ONE and (9) FANTASTIC EAGLE hinted at ability in their respective trials.

Selections(2) Doctor Ace (4) Yurim Ace (8) Saenae Hill (1) Tohamsan One
Next Best9, 5
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(4) SEINE GANG has raced three times with his best being his latest when 3rd at this distance on August 2nd, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. In this company and well-drawn, he should be among the early leaders and looks the one to beat. (8) QUEEN THE GOLD was 5th behind Seine Gang two starts back and then ran 4th on August 15th, beating a couple of today’s rivals in the process. That was her best in eleven attempts but among this company, she should be aiming to better it. (7) SKY BOY raced a couple of times in the spring with a best of 4th on debut. He returns after nineteen weeks off having trialed fairly and with Tanaka on, he can go well. (3) HIT WINNER and (11) WONDER MOCCASIN others in the hunt.

Selections(4) Seine Gang (8) Queen The Gold (7) Sky Boy (3) Hit Winner
Next Best11, 2
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 9

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Very competitive looking maiden. (5) FINAL HIT enters off a best so far 2nd over 1300M on August 22nd, settling handier than in previous outings and running on well. A previous go at 1400M didn’t go especially well but he can be ready for another crack and has as good a chance as any. (8) DOCTOR SOLAR has been knocking at the door recently with his latest being a 3rd place over this distance on August 10th. His best finish of 2nd also came at this distance, and he can be a danger from off the pace. (4) UNJU MAGIC was a much-improved 4th at start number two on August 10th and he can continue to make progress here. (9) SOMANGUIGIL and (10) MUHAN NAREUSHA among plenty of others in with a shout.

Selections(5) Final Hit (8) Doctor Solar (4) Unju Magic (9) Somanguigil
Next Best10, 6
Fast Start3, 9, 10, 11

Busan Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) ONE WAY was a winner at this class and distance on August 1st, racing handy throughout and running on. She comes up 2.5kg in weight but that’s balanced by drawing the same gate, and she can repeat. (3) BURUI TONGCHI got his sole win to date all the way back at start number two, but he has a 2nd and a 4th among his latest three, the latter on his latest on August 2nd when on pace throughout. From gate three he is a possible leader here, and a potential winner. (9) TRIPLE AXEL is a winner at this distance and hinted at a return to form when 5th on August 9th. Franco being booked catches the eye. (1) THUNDER PASSION and (6) HEAVY DUTY are others to consider.

Selections(2) One Way (3) Burui Tongchi (9) Triple Axel (1) Thunder Passion
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 7

Busan Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (August 31)

August concludes with daytime Sunday meetings at Seoul and Busan. There are 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) WONDERFUL N.B. returned from five months out on August 17th and ran a solid 4th over this distance. He should strip fitter for that run and can score here for an in-form stable. (10) RAON THE BELMONT has two 3rd places to her name and enters off a fair 5th at this distance on August 3rd. She has a good finish on her so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she is a danger here. (2) WHITE ROMANCE has mixed her form but going on her 3rd place two outings back over this distance has to rate as a chance in this company and from a good gate she can be on pace. (4) AWESOME STEP and (5) SPICE BAND others in line for the minors.

Selections(8) Wonderful N.B. (10) Raon The Belmont (2) White Romance (4) Awesome Step
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 7

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After running 4th on debut, (5) STORM TROOPER was a narrowly beaten 2nd at start number two at 1200M on August 3rd having led for part of the way. He comes into a better gate today, can lead again, and third-up he can be peaking. (4) CHRYSOL PEACE did nothing on debut in January but returned on August 3rd looking much better and running 3rd over 1200M. He should strip fitter for that run and can be close here. (11) GAYA STAR has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two. He has done his best work late so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and he can challenge at the business end here. (6) STRONG BOSS and (10) BLACK RUSSIAN are others in the hunt.

Selections(5) Storm Trooper (4) Chrysol Peace (11) Gaya Star (6) Strong Boss
Next Best10, 2
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

Fillies (and one mare). (3) CHRYSOL STONE looked very good when winning on debut over 1200M on July 20th, leading for most of the way. She comes up in class and in trip here, but the manner of that victory suggests there is more to come, and she will be hot favourite to make it two from two. (4) CUPID K was a smart winner at this distance on July 20th, racing handy. She comes up in class but is down in weight and she can measure up. (1) ARCH RUNNER remarkably has ten top three finishes without winning. She was 3rd at this class ahead of a couple of today’s rivals over 1700M on August 3rd and with an apprentice claiming 2kg, this is the kind of race where she can pick up a prize. (8) STUNNING STEP and (11) MIGHTY CAP other place chances.

Selections(3) Chrysol Stone (4) Cupid K (1) Arch Runner (8) Stunning Step
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 10, 11

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(1) HEY BROTHER was 6th on debut and then 3rd at start two on August 1st. Both of those were over 1000M but the step up in trip can suit and he can win here. (11) HOLY NIKE ran in the same two races that Hey Brother did, finishing 5th and 4th. He has the challenge of the widest gate here, but he too should appreciate the step up in trip and can be a danger. (2) SILVER STONE improved to 3rd on her second outing over this distance on August 1st when she came from well off the pace to defeat three of today’s rivals. She can be running on again here. (9) JIJONSANBANG and (6) GLOBAL FORCE are others to consider on a place line.

Selections(1) Hey Brother (11) Holy Nike (2) Silver Stone (9) Jijonsanbang
Next Best6, 5
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(3) CHOEGANG SPEED needs a line drawn through his latest ton August 3rd when he got too far back and didn’t run on.   Before that he was 2nd and 4th at this class, Moon Se-young stays on, and he can put in a better showing today. (2) GLOBAL HAMSEONG will be a warm betting favourite. He is a winner at this distance and has finished 2nd in both starts back from a five-month layoff. Third-up this preparation he can be peaking fitness wise and he can be a danger. (4) RAON THE AFFIRMED enters off three consecutive 4th place finishes at this class and she can be there or thereabouts again. (5) YEOWANG SOCKS and (7) CHAMP HAMSEONG also should be in the mix.

Selections(3) Choegang Speed (2) Global Hamseong (4) Raon The Affirmed (5) Yeowang Socks
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 6

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 29)

The twilight schedule begins at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 15:00 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the ten racing for the first time. (3) LEGEND HIT beat two of today’s rivals when 4th on debut of July 18th. It wasn’t the most fluent of performances as he laid both in and out throughout to the extent that he was sent back to trial, which he came through in good style. With better manners today, he is the one to beat. (7) TRICK SHOT also finished 4th on debut, in his case over 1000M on July 4th. She should have come on for the run, the step up in trip can suit, and he can be a danger. Among the first timers (4) TOHAMSAN DRAGON was a front-running 2nd in his trial and from a good draw, he can be in this a long way. (1) DEIMOS and (10) MUJEOKYI are others who can improve from their respective debuts.

Selections(3) Legend Hit (7) Trick Shot (4) Tohamsan Dragon (1) Deimos
Next Best10, 8
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) K ROYAL had eight months between his first and second starts but o his 3rd in June, he was 2nd over 1200M, well beaten by a good winner but showing improvement. The step up to 1400M can suit, and third-up he can be peaking fitness wise. (2) WORLD TAEYNAG is yet to finish in the top two after fourteen attempts, but she has run 3rd to 5th on six occasions. She has got a decent finish on her and in this company, she can be aiming for a best to date placing. (4) FAST QUEEN has a 2nd place to her name at this trip and hinted at a return to some kind of form when 4th last time out and she can be in the mix from off the pace here. (10) GRACE CAL and solitary debut maker (7) OASIS RUBY are others to look out for.

Selections(6) K Royal (2) World Taeyang (4) Fast Queen (10) Grace Cal
Next Best7, 9
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1600M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(8) DOCTOR CHRIS went through plenty of trials, but it was worth the wait as he was a solid 2nd on debut over 1300M, overcoming a slow start to run on strongly. He should have come on for that run, the mile looks good for him, and he can win. (5) SEOBU GAMBLE was 5th in that same race following on from a 3rd place at the start before. He tackles the mile for the first time and is third-up this preparation. (6) CAPTAIN DRAGON races for the first time since finishing a fair 6th at this distance back in April, coincidentally with a couple of today’s rivals behind him. He looked well when 3rd in a quick trial two weeks ago and can be a factor here. (7) REMENT and (4) SEATTLE DREAM are the other main contenders.

Selections(8) Doctor Chris (5) Seobu Gamble (6) Captain Dragon (7) Rement
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1800M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(1) BORYEONGJEOKTOMA is yet to win in fourteen attempts, but he has placed in three of his last four including last time out at this class over a mile. He draws well, Seo Seung-un climbs on for the first time, and today can be the day. (4) GOOD DADDY enters off back-to-back 3rd place finishes at this class and distance. He likes to race on-pace, and from an excellent draw can be the early leader and be in this a long way. He will need to overturn form on (8) SWORD WING who beat Good Daddy when the pair ran 2nd and 3rd at this class and distance on August 1st. He likes to settle right back and run on and he can be a danger again late. (5) BABEL DREAMY and (10) FLASH RUN among plenty of other place chances.

Selections(1) Boryeongjeoktoma (4) Good Daddy (8) Sword Wing (5) Babel Dreamy
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 4, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Seoul & Busan Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 24)

Sunday sees 11 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 18:00 and 6 at Busan from 12:05 to 16:30. Here are the previews:

Seoul Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile maidens with five of the twelve racing for the first time. (5) CHAM BBAREUN MAL was a very close 2nd on debut over 1000M on July 27th, racing handy throughout and almost getting up. He finished off very well so should have no problem with the extended trip, and he can win. (2) MY RUNNER was beaten by a bigger margin when 2nd on his debut at 1000M on July 5th, but he came from well off the pace to run on well. He too should have benefitted from the run and 1200M can suit. (9) KING MASTER beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd place when debuting at this distance on July 20th, overcoming a wide draw to get to the speed. He will need to do similar here but should be in the finish. Of the debut-makers, (1) AMOS STAR and (12) COMEBACK HOLYMOELY look the best at this stage.

Selections(5) Cham Bbareun Mal (2) My Runner (9) King Master (1) Amos Star
Next Best12, 3
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Maiden fillies. (6) UNJU TIME has four top four finishes from five starts so far and enters off her best to date when 2nd in a very similar race to this on July 19th when close to the pace throughout. She won’t need to improve very much at all to win this. (4) TRIPLE PALMETTO has made steady progress across her four appearances, culminating in a last start 4th at 1200M. She has come from well off the pace every time and the slight step up in trip can suit. (9) TIGER ROAR also finished well on debut with her performance being better than the 7th of twelve finish suggests. She should have come on for that run and can go closer this time. (5) SMART MINK and (1) DAEHAN COCOS are other place chances.

Selections(6) Unju Time (4) Triple Palmetto (9) Tiger Roar (5) Smart Mink
Next Best1, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(7) ECLIPSE TANGO has been getting closer across his five starts and enters having run 3rd at this distance on July 12th when he led for most of the way around. Moon Se-young stays on, they should lead again in this company and this time they can go all the way. It isn’t a strong set of rivals. (1) X-FACTOR was only ordinary last time out but draws better this time around and with a good start, should be in this a long way. (3) GANGCHEOL POWER got his best finish in eighteen attempts when 2nd at this distance on July 27th, settling back and running on, and that’s enough for him to be in contention here. (5) SUN GALLANT and the returning (3) HANMADIMALDO are others to consider.

Selections(7) Eclipse Tango (1) X-Factor (3) Gangcheol Power (5) Sun Gallant
Next Best3, 11
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1200M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

After running 7th on debut (5) CHAMP SIDAE was a much-improved 2nd in an all-filly maiden over this distance on July 18th, racing further forward and beating a couple of today’s rivals. Franco stays on, third-up she can be peaking, and she is the one to beat. (3) WONDERFUL WIND has made progress across each of her four starts so far with 4th behind Champ Sidae in that July 18th race being her latest and best. She has a bit to find on the favourite but can get closer. (11) META V was 5th in that same race in what for her was her racing debut and she can have come on for the experience. (10) SPEED BUMP and (6) BREEDO GALLANT others who can improve.

Selections(5) Champui Sidae (3) Wonderful Wind (11) Meta V (10) Speed Bump
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start2, 8, 10, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

(2) GOLD CATCHER won back-to-back races in June and early July before running 3rd at this class and distance on July 26th when she raced more forward than in previous starts. Johan knows her well, they draw well, and they can return to winning ways. (9) CLAIR BIG BANG was only ordinary on debut back in January but since coming back in June, has been excellent, winning twice from off the pace at 1300M and at this distance. She has a very quick final furlong on her compared to her rivals here and so long as she is withing striking distance, she will be a big threat late on. (6) WANGCHOEGO will need a lone drawn through his latest at 1200M on July 26th, but he has placed on both tries at this distance and can at least do so again. (4) JOY CHOENHA and up in class (11) BULGEUNTAEYANG are other chances.

Selections(2) Gold Catcher (9) Clair Big Bang (6) Wangchoego (4) Joy Cheonha
Next Best11, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

It’s hard to go past (4) NICE BUDDY here. She got her win at start two over 1200M in June and has since run 2nd and 3rd in two tries at this class, both times racing on pace. She draws well to lead again, and she will be expected to go all the way. (2) ROSE DRAGON returned from six months off to run 2nd at this class and distance in June. She has had a further eleven weeks off since then, but she should be fitter, and she can be close. (8) OASIS WICKY won on debut back in January but hasn’t been seen since. He appears to have been gelded in his spell away from the track and he looked well enough in a trial two weeks ago to suggest he be a danger first-up. (11) PLUTO and the up in class (3) LION MAGIC others in the frame.

Selections(4) Nice Buddy (2) Rose Dragon (8) Oasis Wicky (11) Pluto
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start1, 4, 10, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 45 Million

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 22)

The final weekend before racing switches to an afternoon and evening schedule to run through September sees the action kick off at Busan on Friday with 8 races between 11:25 and 18:00. Here are the previews:

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1000M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Juvenile filly maidens in the opener with all but two racing for the first time. We’ll just about side with the experience and (7) TWIN RAINBOW ran 4th on debut over this distance on July 11th, overcoming a slightly slow start to run on. She should have benefited from the experience and Seo Seung-un getting on will attract attention. Given that the other one who has raced before didn’t do much, we head to the trial videos and (2) WORLD EAGLE CAT beat three of today’s rivals on her way to 2nd in her heat and from a good draw and with Franco on, must be a chance. (9) GRAND TREE posted a decent time when 3rd in her trial and if she brings that form to the races, she can be in the finish. (3) HUIMANG SARANG and (11) NICE POWER, 3rd behind World Eagle Cat in their trial, others who can make an impact.

Selections(7) Twin Rainbow (2) World Eagle Cat (9) Grand Tree (3) Huimang Sarang
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start3, 7, 9, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

Small field and (2) VICTORY STORY gets the nod. He has mixed his form but his last start 3rd place on July 13th when settling midfield and running on is enough to suggest that he is ready to win here. (7) GAMDONGUI DOLPA has shown steady progress across four starts to date, culminating in a 3rd place finish at 12000M on June 13th. She comes in fresh after ten weeks off and shapes as the main danger. (3) BAEKPAL BOEUN is yet to finish any better than 3rd in twelve starts but this is not exactly a tough race and if she can get off to at least a fair start, she can be in the finish. (4) FINAL HIT and, given it is such a weak race, newcomer (5) OASIS CHAMP, are others to consider.

Selections(2) Victory Story (7) Gamdongui Dolpa (3) Baekpal Boeun (4) Final Hit
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(6) MUHAN NAREUSHA ran 3rd on debut over 1200M on July 18th, coming from well off the pace. That was his style in trials too, so we are going to be very superficial and assume that the additional half furlong is what is required to get him home on top. The sole debut-maker is (3) EXCELLENT RUN. He was an on-pace 3rd in a fair time in the second of his trials and in this limited company, that’s enough to make him a chance. (8) EOKSAE has hinted at ability with an improved 4th place last time out, (1) BLUEORCHID and (7) TOP BLUE others in line for the places in what is a very ordinary race.

Selections(6) Muhan Nareusha (3) Excellent Run (8) Eoksae (1) Blueorchid
Next Best7, 5
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 7

Busan Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

(9) BEOLMA WINNER raced twice last autumn and showed promise but then didn’t return until this August 2nd when he beat several of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place at 1300M. He should strip fitter for that run and is favoured to go one better today. (6) HWANHUI BANK was 3rd in that race, coming from off the pace to score his best finish to date. The slight step up in trip can suit, and he can be a danger. (8) HEAVY DUTY has a 2nd place to his name and comes back in trip after recent work at a mile and he can be on pace and in the finish. (7) CRUELLA and (1) GANGSEO GENIUS are others who can contend for the places.

Selections(9) Beolma Winner (6) Hwanhui Bank (8) Heavy Duty (7) Cruella
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start2, 5, 8, 9

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

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