Busan

Korean Derby Day Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (May 3)

It’s Korean Derby day and general admission is free to Seoul Racecourse. The big race is set for 4.30pm. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 17:05. Here are the previews:

Final Boss was a fine Derby winner (Pic: Ross Holburt)

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

(9) PARKA SHINE was a disappointing 7th of eleven when well backed over 1200M on March 1st getting away slowly and then always on the backfoot. Prior to that he looked as though he was figuring things out with a 4th and a 3rd and he can be given another chance here with The Moon aboard on his final day. (4) HOT FEVER was an improved 2nd at 1200M on April 5th settling back and running on. He has the fastest time among these for the 1300M, and it would be no surprise if he started as favourite. (10) TAEGUK WANGJA enters off a smart 3rd place over this distance back at the end of January. He has had some issues since that kept him in the swimming pool rather than on the track, but he has been in regular work since April 10th and should be ready for this. Those three will fill out most quinellas, with (7) TWOTWO MAGIC and (5) SMART GRAND, perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(9) Parka Shine (4) Hot Fever (10) Taeguk Wangja (7) Twotwo Magic
Next Best5, 8
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 8

Seoul Race 2: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies and mares only in this maiden. (3) WONDERFUL TUNE UP has raced eleven times and has never finished any better than 4th, but she has done this on no fewer than six occasions. She settles back and runs on and in this company, unless she automatically stops when she has three left to pass, she really should go by them all and win. It’s hard to make a winning case for the others. (11) SINCHEON HEART ran 4th over this distance two starts back and has as good a chance as any of being in the finish. (1) THE SUN STORY improved to 6th at start number two on March 1st and can continue to improve. (4) DAREURI YEOWANG was 6th on debut on March 29th having got a long way back. Natural improvement and the extended trip can see her closer. (7) NURI QUEENS another minor money chance.

Selections(3) Wonderful Tune Up (11) Sincheon Heart (1) The Sun Story (4) Dareuri Yeowang
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start1, 6, 7, 11

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

(3) POWER TIGER could not justify the odds-on favouritism on debut, but he gets an even better chance to here in a very winnable maiden. He may have let punters down at his first start but regardless that piece of form is the best on offer in this race by a long way and he can go one better for Masa Tanaka and Kim Hye-sun. (11) BREEDO SHOOTER has five-lengths to find with Power Tiger from April 3 but with a 3kg claim from Nam Jeong-hyeok he can make up some ground. (10) BRAVE RUN put together three consecutive 4th places prior to finishing down the track last time. (6) PILSEUNG WINNER produced the best effort of her career last start so that is a positive. (9) WONDERFUL WIND has been around the mark a few times whilst (1) GRAND HERO was 2nd in a trial but has only been 8th in two starts.

Selections(3) Power Tiger (11) Breedo Shooter (10) Brave Run (6) Pilseung Winner
Next Best9, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 9, 10, 11

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

(8) BLISS STAR has chased home a couple of nice winners in his seven-start career, and they include Musket Cleaver and Concord Blue who we see in the Derby later. He is close to a win and is a chance of breaking through in this. However, he will have to contend with (11) KIA ORA who comes off a four-length maiden victory on March 22 when coming from midfield. Based on that win, she can make it back-to-back. (5) BROWN MAMMA won his maiden before winning at this level across the winter. For his second run at this level, he went up 3.5kg and was beaten as favourite. He carries the same weight here so that is a concern, but he has the ability. (3) CUPID K has been just behind the placegetters of late and rates over (7) MANGEUM CROWN, who makes his first run at this grade, and (10) ROYAL BEST.

Selections(8) Bliss Star (11) Kia Ora (5) Brown Mamma (3) Cupid K
Next Best7, 10
Fast Start2, 5, 7, 8, 10

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

(2) NEWWORLD TIARA has had the two starts for a five-length 4th on debut in March before halving the beaten margin when 3rd last month. She clearly goes on top as she brings the most consistent form, albeit from just two starts. (7) QUEEN THE GOLD ran the best race of her career last time when coming from midfield to run a one-and-a-half length 2nd. If she replicates that performance, she could go one better. (6) WONDERFUL PREACH has been just behind the placegetters in the majority of her seven starts and it is a similar story for (5) BREEDO CAPTAIN. (1) GREAT CHAMP and (4) THANKYOUFORTHETIME head the rest.

Selections(2) Newworld Tiara (7) Queen The Gold (6) Wonderful Preach (5) Breedo Captain
Next Best1, 4
Fast Start2, 4, 6, 7

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

(5) FLYING CONCORD returned from over nine months out to run 2nd at this class over 1200M on April 5th when leading for most of the way. He should have come on for that run, he draws well to lead again, and this time he can go all the way. (2) RAON SAPPHIRE is a winner of two from four, most recently at this class and distance on March 28th when coming from off the pace and beating a couple of today’s rivals. She comes up 2.5kg in weight, but she can be a danger again. (11) REFLECT was 4th behind Raon Sapphire in that race, continuing a consistent run of results at this level and he should be there or thereabouts again. Up in class last start winners (7) CLOVER ONE and (3) QUERENCIA, the former scoring on debut, both probably have a bit to find at this level but shouldn’t be ruled out.  

Selections(5) Flying Concord (2) Raon Sapphire (11) Reflect (7) Clover One
Next Best3, 1
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (May 1)

There is Holiday Friday racing at Busan with 8-races from 11:35 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

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

(3) BYEOLBIT SONATA won a trial before finishing 4th on debut over this distance on April 3rd when leading early. He should have come on for that run, he draws well to lead again, and this time he can win. Enough was thought of (8) POWERFUL MENIFEE that aside from being bestowed with quite the name, he was also sent out on debut in the Rookie Stakes last August. He finished last and then went lame and has been in and out of work ever since without making it to the races. He trialed up in super fashion at the start of April, blitzing his heat in a quick time, and if he brings that form to the races, he’ll be close. (9) SIERRA GOLD showed well in his trial and can debut well under Franco. Another first-timer (6) ROAD FIGHTER, along with (2) ANY WIN, who improved last time out, are others in the frame.

Selections(3) Byeolbit Sonata (8) Powerful Menifee (9) Sierra Gold (6) Road Fighter
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 8

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

After some underwhelming trials, (6) GWANGSEON DAERO was sent out at big odds on debut on April 3rd but from a wide gate and settling back, she finished off very well to claim 4th place. Seo Seung-un climbs on and she will be much shorter this time around. (9) BIG SMILE has made steady progress across five starts to date with her best being her latest when 2nd over this distance on April 3rd. In this small field the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and an apprentice claim keeps her under a light weight. (3) HUIMANG LOGI has a 3rd and two 4th place finishes from her latest two and the slight step up in trip can suit. (5) MISS COCO and (4) FANTASTIC GREEN are others who can potentially improve in a race where there is no obvious early speed.

Selections(6) Gwangseon Daero (9) Big Smile (3) Huimang Logi (5) Miss Coco
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 8

Busan Race 3: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(3) VEGAS JEONTU almost made his breakthrough when favourite over this distance on March 27th when on pace throughout but ultimately going down 2nd to Baram Daero (who was 2nd at the same class last week). He draws the same gate today and this time should go one better. (6) SHACKLE LAUD returns to action for the first time since January. A two-time winner and five-time placer over this distance, she looked very well in a trial on April 9th, and she can be a danger first-up. (5) WIN WIN enters off three consecutive class and distance 3rd place finishes and he can be there or thereabouts again. (7) BRIGHT MARINE and if she can get a lead which won’t be easy from her gate, (9) DOCTOR KAREN, others to consider.

Selections(3) Vegas Jeontu (6) Shackle Laud (5) Win Win (7) Bright Marine
Next Best9, 4
Fast Start1, 3, 5, 9

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

(1) PORT MORE got his maiden win over a mile three outings back and has a 6th and a 5th in two starts since at this class over 1800M and then again at a mile. He drops back to a trip at which he ran 2nd on his only previous try and from the inside gate, he can be on pace with every chance of going all the way. (4) D’LOVELY KING is yet to win, nor even match the three consecutive runner-up finishes that he began his career with, but he hasn’t raced badly of late, especially his 3rd place at this class three starts back. He can settle back and run on here and he may have more improvement in him. (11) SHINING ONE was a well beaten favourite on April 5th when further back than usual and seemingly resenting the kickback. He comes down 4.5kg in weight today, assisted by an apprentice claim and while drawn wide, he is worth another chance here as his form prior to last time was good. (7) GUKDAE HERO and (5) GLOBAL HIGH perhaps the best of the rest.

Selections(1) Port More (4) D’Lovely King (11) Shining One (7) Gukdae Hero
Next Best5, 6
Fast Start1, 5, 10, 11

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

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Korea Racing Report: April 24-26

THE GIRLS TOOK CENTRE STAGE AT SEOUL ON SUNDAY WITH THE COUNTRY’S PREMIER RACE FOR OLDER FILLIES AND MARES BUT IN OTHER RACES THE MAIN RACE WAS THE VERY LAST AND THE CONSISTENT J S ROAD, after chasing home Geudaemaniddamyeon and Eclipse Berry at his previous two starts, recorded his first win since December 2024 getting the better of Wonpyeong Sket and More Than Joke in a close finish between the three popular picks.

J S Road (Twirling Candy, under a perfectly timed ride from gun apprentice Woo In-cheol grabbed the long-time leader and talented but stamina-challenged three-year-old filly Wonpyeong Sket in the dying strides to win by an extending half-length with More Than Joke a neck away in 3rd.

The victory of J S Road completed a training double on the day for Song Moon-gil, who also prepared the progressive URUS SABBIA (Overanalyze) to make it two wins from two in Race 3 (1400M Class 5). The victory was by five-lengths, but it could have been even further had he not been so green in the home straight the same as on his debut. He needs to improve his manners, but the ability is there.

Kim Yong-geun rode a race-to-race double on the card and that began when BREEDO CALEY (Revolutionary) led throughout to win Race 4 (1800M Class 5) by four-lengths after two 2nd places at his prior two starts. That race saw the 2.5 favourite Fighter finish a well beaten 8th after effectively being beaten from the halfway stage. Fifty minutes later Kim rode SLING STAR (To Honor And Serve) to land Race 5 (1700M Class 4) by one-length as the 1.9 favourite. Sling Star completed a hat-trick of victories and continues to progress.

Race 8 (1600M Class 3) saw the impressive MAEUM HANA (Gaon Champ) somehow start the 5.2 third elect but despite being written off by punters he made it four consecutive wins going up in grade by one level on each occasion. With Geudaemaniddamyeon, the country’s highest rated three-year-old at present, out for the remainder of the season and his future career in doubt, Maeum Hana may just be one to keep things ticking over in the classic ages ranks for the combination of CC Wong, Choi Yong-geon and Woo Tae-yul. The race saw Free The One and Best Pitch, 3rd and 4th in the Sports Seoul Trophy respectively, start the 2.3 and 4.4 popular picks but they were both bitter disappointments with Best Pitch always towards the rear finishing 8th whilst Free The One knocked right up and was last of the 10 runners to complete the course.

Maeum Hana was the second impressive winner of the day for Choi Yong-geon as NAOL AURORA (Musket Man) was a smart winner of Race 2 (1400M Class 6) leading throughout to score by six-lengths.

In Race 9 HANGANG PERFECT (Old Fashioned) landed a competitive 1800M Class 3 as the 6.8 fourth market choice accounting for the incredibly consistent Morning Wonder by a head. The 2.5 favourite Dragon Killer could only manage 7th after being unable to lead and therefore working hard in the run.

MEANWHILE DOWN AT BUSAN ON THE SAME DAY THE CLOSING CLASS 2 LOOKED A VERY COMPETITIVE HANDICAP BUT 1400M SPECIALIST BRUG KINGMAN made the race anything but as he roared away in the closing stages to land the spoils by five-lengths.

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 24)

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8-races from 11.15 to 17.55. Here are the previews:

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

(2) DELTA FORCE has a pair of 3rd places among three starts to date, most recently at 1200M on March 29th when handy throughout and ahead of a couple of today’s rivals. He comes into a much better gate today, and he has every chance. (11) KISS THE RAIN was a well-beaten favourite on March 22nd when doing himself no favours by laying out throughout. Prior to that, he had a 2nd and a 3rd and with better manners, he can be given another chance. (1) MAGIC HAMMER got his second 3rd place finish over 1200M on March 20th and from the inside gate can be aiming to match or better that here. (7) SUPER HIT and (5) ONNURI PARTY others in the placing frame.

Selections(2) Delta Force (11) Kiss The Rain (1) Magic Hammer (7) Super Hit
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 11

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

(11) BACK TO THE DREAM was 3rd on debut and then 2nd at start number two over 1300M on March 27th when handy throughout. He does have the challenge of a wider gate this time but third-up he can be peaking, and he can win. (8) RIVER RUN took plenty of trials to get to the races and was accordingly unfancied on debut over 1200M on March 3rd. He got a long way back, but he ran on pleasingly for 5th and with some natural improvement, as well as the extended trip, he could be the danger. (9) VIRAL HIT was an improved 4th at this distance on March 22nd, settling midfield and running on and she can build on that today. (12) SWEET MAN and (2) WONDERFUL SMART others who could have a say in the minors.

Selections(11) Back To The Dream (8) River Run (9) Viral Hit (12) Sweet Man
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 11, 12

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

Fillies and mares only here. (7) LAMPYOJEONGGEENIE has only missed the top four once and even then, two starts back, she beat a couple of today’s rivals. She enters having been the beaten favourite in a similar race to this on March 23rd when taken down late by Sunrise, and she can go one better today. (3) DUBAI SEONMUL was slow away in that race from the widest gate and never playing a role. She was a smart maiden winner at her previous start, but from a much better gate, she is worth another chance today, (12) SEONGSIL WORLD got her maiden win two starts back over 1300M, showing on pace, before running 2nd on her first try at this class and distance on March 20th. She has the challenge of the widest gate here, but she can be in the finish again. The form falls off after those three with (8) MAGIC SHOW and (2) THIS WAY probably the best of the rest.

Selections(7) Lampyojeonggeenie (3) Dubai Seonmul (12) Seongsil World (8) Magic Show
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start1, 7, 8, 12

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

After finishing 4th on debut, (10) LIGHTNING FORCE has won two in a row, both over 1200M and most recently at this class on April 3rd when leading all the way. He comes up 2kg in weight and draws wider than he has before, but neither should be insurmountable and he can complete his hat-trick here. None of the rest enter in much form. (4) ISIMNYEON JIGI has been around the mark with three 4th places at this class since his maiden win. He got a bit far back from a wide gate last time on March 22nd out but can be better today. (5) BULBIT GANGJA went even worse in that March 22nd race but prior to that ran 3rd at class and distance in February and can be given another chance here. (3) GAON BOSS and (8) THEIA other minor chances.

Selections(10) Lightning Force (4) Isimnyeon Jigi (5) Bulbit Gangja (3) Gaon Boss
Next Best8, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 5, 10

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

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YTN Cup Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (April 19)

Sunday’s feature is the second leg of the 2026 Korea Stayer Series, the YTN Cup (2000M KOR-G3) at Seoul. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:35 to 17:55 and 7 at Busan from 11:25 to 16:55. Here are the previews:

The great Winner’s Man was YTN Cup winner (Pic: KRA)

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

(6) IKKEULIM returned from four months out in January to run a close 2nd over this distance having led for most of the way. He weakened late on his latest outing on March 7th over 1300M, but slightly back in trip and in this company, he should have too much and can make his breakthrough. (1) COWBOY QUEEN was 5th on debut in February and then an improved 2nd at start number two over this distance on March 15th when handy throughout. He looks to have scope for more progress here and from the inside gate, can be on pace early and in this a long way. (9) THUNDER RUN enters off back-t-back 4th places and against this lot can be aiming for better. He hasn’t raced since January but looked well when finishing (where else?) 4th in a trail two weeks ago. (4) ONNURI BIT and (5) LEGEND MATCH others in the placing frame.

Selections(6) Ikkeulim (1) Cowboy Queen (9) Thunder Run (4) Onnuri Bit
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start1, 4, 6, 9

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

(2) PLAY MATCH was a good 4th on debut over 1200M back on February 7th when settling midfield and running on well. It has taken him a while to get back though he has been in regular work since the start of this month and with some natural improvement, he can win this. (3) BINNALEEDS has made steady progress across three starts so far, culminating in 3rd at 1200M on March 8th when for the first time she raced on pace. She comes up to this trip for the first time, and she should be a danger. (1) MEGA WIND got a long way back from the widest gate on debut but ran on well enough for 6th. With that experience under his belt and with a much better draw, he can improve today. (7) SINCHEON HEART and (5) SPICE BAND other place chances.

Selections(2) Play Match (3) Binnaleeds (1) Mega Wind (7) Sincheon Heart
Next Best5, 4
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 7

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

Maidens with five of the twelve racing for the first time and we’ll take a chance on one of them. (5) INDIE TIGER trialed last May without making it to the races but came back this March and won a heat in a quick time, settling midfield and running on. If he brings that form to the races, he has every chance. (2) PERFECT POINT didn’t do a lot on debut last November but has a 3rd and a 4th in two starts since at 1200M and 1300M, racing on pace both times.  Under an apprentice claim he comes down in weight and drawn well to lead again, he can be in this a long way. (12) CHAMPUI HYANGGI has finished 5th in both starts so far, coming from off the pace, and should be aiming to be closer this time. (4) DREAM BIG and (1) MUHANDAE BIT finished 4th and 5th respectively in a March 19th trial and look the best of the rest.

Selections(5) Indie Tiger (2) Perfect Point (12) Champui Hyanggi (4) Dream Big
Next Best1, 6
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 8

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

(4) DREAM DIA has been working towards a win across her eight starts so far, with her latest being her best when an on pace 2nd over this distance on March 21st. She draws the same gate and from on the speed again, she should win this time.  (2) DUSON LIFE came from off the pace to run 3rd in a very weak maiden last time (for non-placers of at least five). This race isn’t much stronger and from a better draw and Kozzi on for the first time, he can get closer. (7) DAEHAN COCO’S has a 3rd and four 4th place finishes to her name, and she should be there or thereabouts again. (3) EUNPA SWEET returned from eight months out on March 15th but had a hard time after a bad start. She should strip fitter for that run and be closer today. (1) BROWN SUGAR another who could improve.

Selections(4) Dream Dia (2) Duson Life (7) Daehan Coco’s (3) Eunpa Sweet
Next Best1, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

(8) HAENGBOK TREE was a fair 4th on debut last November but then didn’t reappear until March 22nd when she was a strong 2nd over 1400M racing on pace throughout. She should strip fitter for that run, and while she comes up to the mile for the first time, it can suit. (4) RESONANCE MARINE stepped up to this trip for the first time on March 27th and uncharacteristically led. It paid off as she ran a best to date 3rd, beating a few of today’s rivals in the process, and she can back that up here. (2) JEONGMUN SKIP is up to a mile for the first time but gets a better draw than in his latest two and he should be close. (5) SEUNGNI YEYAK was 4th in that March 27th race and in this company, looks a good chance of making the minors again. (3) THANKYOUFORTHETIME another in the placing frame.

Selections(8) Haengbok Tree (4) Resonance Marine (2) Jeongmun Skip (5) Seungni Yeyak
Next Best3, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 8, 9

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

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Busan Friday: Race-By-Race Preview (April 17)

The weekend’s action gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

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

(8) GOLD POCKET was on pace on debut over this distance on March 20th when beating a couple of these on her way to 2nd place behind a good winner. She should have come on for that run, she should be on pace again, and she will be a short price to go one better. (2) OASIS KINGDOM has raced twice and was an improved 5th over 1400M on March 29th. He makes a quick return here and possible peaking fitness wise, he can get much closer. (1) GAON PERFECT ran 3rd on debut in that March 20th race behind Gold Pocket. He has seven-lengths to find on the filly, but it wasn’t a bad effort and he can improve. (11) OVER RAINBOW and debut-maker (5) STEALTH KINGMAN others who can be in the finish.

Selections(8) Gold Pocket (2) Oasis Kingdom (1) Gaon Perfect (11) Over Rainbow
Next Best5, 3
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 10

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

The second division of the opening maiden and there will probably be an equally strong favourite. (2) POWERFUL THUNDER has made steady progress across five starts so far, culminating in 2nd place over 1200M on March 20th. He draws a much better gate than in any of his last three so he should get an easier run to the front and then take some beating.  (10) VELOCI QUEEN has impressed in all three outings with a 4th, a 2nd, and a 3rd. She has a strong finish on her so the wide draw shouldn’t be a problem, and she will be a big danger late. (4) SUCCESS PYEONGHWA was 2nd on debut all the way back in July last year and then finally returned to run a fair 3rd on March 8th when leading for much of the way. He’ll be challenging for the speed again and can be in the finish. Those three will be at the top of most tickets, with (11) DIA X and perhaps the sole first-time starter (5) BUTTER CRASH others to look out for.  

Selections(2) Powerful Thunder (10) Veloci Queen (4) Success Pyeonghwa (11) Dia X
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 5

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

(6) TRIPLE SINHWA stepped up to this distance for the first time last November and was a solid winner at class 4 level. Since then, he has raced three times at this class, all again over the 1800M and has finished 2nd all three times, most recently racing handy on March 6th. He has his fair share of weight but Seo Seung-un stays on, and he is favoured to return to winning ways. Second favourite will be (4) BEST BOY. Remarkably, at start number thirty, he is racing at both this class and distance for the very first time, but he enters in very good form, winning over a mile three starts back and following up with a 3rd and a 2nd. That brings him up in class, but he is down a full 5kg in weight and that should make him very competitive. (2) TOHAMSAN TAEYANG could only manage 6th of twelve last time out on March 20th but she was a winner at this distance in January and under a light weight, she can be in the finish. (8) GASOK JEIL and (5) VEREUDA will need passes on their respective latest efforts to be best of the rest.

Selections(6) Triple Sinhwa (4) Best Boy (2) Tohamsan Taeyang (8) Gasok Jeil
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

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

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SBS Sports Sprint Sunday Seoul & Busan: Race-By-Race Preview (April 12)

Sunday sees the second leg of the 2026 Sprint Series with the SBS Sports Sprint (1200M KOR-G3) at Seoul. Meanwhile at Busan there are six international trophy exchange races. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10.35 to 17.55 and 7 at Busan from 11.25 to 17.55. Here are the previews:

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

(5) GANGHAN GAMMA has made steady progress across three starts so far culminating in 2nd place in a filly only race over this distance on March 14th beaten seven-lengths by Breedo Aqua. She can settle behind the speed here and should prove too strong late on. (3) RACE DIVA was 6th behind Ganghan Gamma in that March 14th race. That was a slight improvement from her debut and from a much better gate she can continue to get better here. (9) BEST THE ON ran three times last autumn with a best of 2nd over this distance. He hasn’t raced since November but looked well enough in a March trial and can be in this first-up. Debut maker (2) VINCENT KATHY went through two trials, winning the second of them. She draws very nicely to be on pace and can put in a bold showing. (11) DONGBAEK among the other place chances.

Selections(5) Ganghan Gamma (3) Race Diva (9) Best The On (2) Vincent Kathy
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start2, 6, 8, 7

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

Not the strongest of maidens. (2) SAENAE RANIA came from a wide gate to lead on what was her first try at this distance on March 8th and ultimately finished a solid 3rd. This race is no harder and from a much better draw, she can win. (5) SANGIM YEONGUNG has four top four finishes from five starts with his best being a close 2nd to Saenae Fighter at start two last November. He can get a bit far back in his races, but he can finish strongly and be a danger late here. (6) GEOSEN MUJEOK was ridden a bit further forward on his first try at this distance on March 22nd and finished a fair 5th. With similar tactics here, he can get closer. (3) NICE WINNER and (7) YONGBIGYO are the other main chances.

Selections(2) Saenae Rania (5) Sangim Yeongung (6) Geosen Mujeok (3) Nice Winner
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 7

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / “New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing Trophy” / KRW 30 Million

Interesting maiden to open things on the south coast and (3) OASIS GIJEOK gets the nod. He raced three times last year for a best of 3rd and then didn’t reappear for another six months. His return on March 13th saw him beat a couple of today’s rivals on his way to 2nd place at 1200M and stripping fitter for that run, he can go one better today.  The main danger could well be the debut maker one gate to his inside. (2) FLASH COCO first trialed in October of 2024 but never made it to the races after a chip fracture and several other setbacks. Her owner/breeder has persevered though and she looked good when 2nd in a trial in March showing handy throughout. From a good draw, she can make an immediate impact. (7) RESPECTING GIRL was an improved 4th behind Oasis Gijeok on March 13th and can continue to make progress here. (1) POWERFUL RUBY and (5) SKY BOY others in the frame.

Selections(3) Oasis Gijeok (2) Flash Coco (7) Respecting Girl (1) Powerful Ruby
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start1, 3, 9, 11

Seoul Race 3: Class 4 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) SAMJOGO led early in the Listed Sports Seoul on March 1st before being overwhelmed late and finishing a well beaten last. Prior to that he was an all the way winner at this class over 1300M and returning to shallower waters today, he can return to winning ways. (9) KOREAN DREAM enters off a close 2nd place at this class and distance on March 21st when handy throughout. In this company he should be on pace, and he shapes as a big rival. (1) STAY BIG was a 60/1 winner at this class over 1400M on March 8th, coming from off the pace. He only comes up 1kg in weight and warrants significantly more respect this time. (11) RAON NIZHINSKII and (6) SAHARAMOND among other place chances.

Selections(4) Samjogo (9) Korean Dream (1) Stay Big (11) Raon Nizhinski
Next Best6, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 7, 9

Busan Race 2: Class 4 (1200M) Handicap / “Royal Western India Turf Club Trophy” / KRW 60 Million

(3) BUNKER BUSTER has won two of four so far with his others ending in 2nd and 3rd. He is up in class having scored over 1400M on March 15th when he led all the way around and while he was 3rd on his only previous try at this distance, he draws well to lead again, and he will take some beating. (2) DOCTOR CITY and (9) GRAND MORE came home in 2nd and 3rd place respectively when they raced each other at this class and distance on March 6th. The draw here is more favourable to Doctor City although he comes up 1.5kg. Both have ever chance of being in the finish again. (11) NAKDONG MYEONGJAK returns to action for the first time since last November. She has won at this trip, and she looked well enough in a March trial to suggest she can put in a good effort here. (8) BREEDO MIRACLE another firmly in the frame.

Selections(3) Bunker Buster (2) Doctor City (9) Grand More (11) Nakdong Myeongjak
Next Best8, 5
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1700M) Special Weight A / KRW 30 Million

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with an 8-race card from 11:15 to 17:55. Here are the previews:

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

Maidens with three of the ten racing for the first time. (4) NINETEEN NINE WON has raced twice and finished 2nd twice in filly only maidens, both over this trip, first showing handy and then coming from midfield. She should be on pace and against this set of opponents, she should have far too much. (3) NORTHERN QUEEN has a 4th place on her record and while she only managed 7th of twelve last time out over 1300M when she was on pace, she did beat a couple of today’s rivals. Back in trip today, she should be closer. (1) SO POWERFULL did nothing in three starts last year and not all that much on his return on March 13th. He should strip fitter for that run though and can improve. Debut-makers (9) AEGIS CHEONMA and (8) UNJU DAEBAK are two debut-makers who hinted at ability in trials.

Selections(4) Nineteen Nine Won (3) Northern Queen (1) So Powerfull (9) Aegis Cheonma
Next Best8, 6
Fast Start1, 3, 8, 9

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

Competitive maiden. (5) OASIS HAPPY did nothing on debut at the end of last year but agter going back to trial, was a much-improved 2nd on March 15th when he ran on from midfield and beat three of today’s rivals. He stays under an apprentice claim, and he can go one better today. (4) NICE MYEONGGA has a 2nd and two 4th places from three starts so far, finishing off her races well. She comes up to the 1400M for the first time, and it can suit.  (11) THEMIS stepped up to this trip for the first time on March 6th and recorded her best finish to date when an on-pace 2nd. She has the challenge of a wider draw this time, but she can be in the finish again. (1) WONDERFUL BAND and (6) STRONG WINNER among others firmly in the frame.

Selections(5) Oasis Happy (4) Nice Myeongga (11) Themis (1) Wonderful Band
Next Best6, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 9, 11

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

After two good trials, (9) WONDERFUL FASHION ran 2nd on debut over 1400M on March 15th, racing handy throughout and beating a couple who re-oppose here. He should have come on for the run, the step up to a mile can suit, and he is favoured to go one better today. (10) DOKKI TIGER was one of those back down the field on that March 15th race when she got a long way back from a wide draw and never threatened. We’ll go on her 3rd place two starts ago and give her another chance here on what is her first try at a mile and Seo Seung-un’s first time up. (5) DOLGYEOK SPECIAL comes in off three consecutive  4th place finishes, most recently on her first try at this distance on March 20th and she can be aiming to at least match that here. (1) QUEEN THE GOLD and (12) DOCTOR CARA can arrest recent slumps.

Selections(9) Wonderful Fashion (10) Dokki Tiger (5) Dolgyeok Special (1) Queen The Gold
Next Best12, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 9, 12

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

(2) ROAD TO CLEO was a winner on debut last October before rounding out her juvenile campaign with two very average runs and was lame after the latter. She looked very well when going through a March 26th trial and first-up from a good draw, she has every chance. (10) MAGIC SWEETIE got her second career win at start twenty-nine in January before following up with 2nd place ahead of a couple of these on March 8th. She carries 3.5kg more than when she won, but she’s clearly in form and can be close. (3) B K. SPIRIT has been well backed on both her last two starts but has disappointed both times with not a huge amount of excuses bar a wide gate last time. He was 2nd at this class and distance in December and from a good draw can get forward and go much better. (5) TAEYANG EUTTEUM and (9) STORM POINT perhaps the best of an out of form rest.

Selections(2) Road To Cleo (10) Magic Sweetie (3) B K. Spirit (5) Taeyang Eutteum
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 11

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

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Luna Stakes Sunday Busan & Seoul: Race-By-Race Preview (April 5)

The Triple Tiara gets underway at Busan on Sunday with the Luna Stakes (1600M KOR-Listed). That’s part of the 7-race program at Busan which runs from 11.25 to 16.55. At Seoul there are 10 races from 10.35 to 17.55 as the capital track’s cherry blossom festival continues:

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

Maidens with four of the eleven racing for the first time and one of those newcomers will be the favourite. That’s (5) WHIZ POINT, who led from much of the way around in his trial, ultimately crossing the line in 2nd place. He draws well to lead here and if he brings that form to the races, he will be hard to beat. (2) CRUSH GIRL also impressed in her trial. He showed handy and crossed the line 2nd in a fair time, and she too can be considered first-up. Among the experience, (6) CHEONGGANG YEOREUM ran 6th on eleven on debut over this distance on March 7th but wasn’t far away from 4th. She should have come on for the run, and she can be closer here. (8) FLYING MACH and the more experienced (10) NINE SPEAR are others who can be in this.

Selections(5) Whiz Point (2) Crush Girl (6) Cheonggang Yeoreum (8) Flying Mach
Next Best10, 9
Fast Start2, 5, 9, 10

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

It’s hard to go past (1) QUERENCIA here. He comes in off a 4th and a 3rd from his latest two at 1300M at 1400M, coming from off the pace both times and while he has plenty of weight to carry, today should really be his day. (3) MANGEUM CROWN is the only other one in the field who has placed, something he has done twice. He comes back to racing at one turn for the first time since finishing well back in Listed Juvenile company last October and he can be close today. (11) BEAT CODE has a 5th and a 4th from two starts so far and while she had to trial after her lates, she can continue to make progress. (4) B.K. VIVACE and (2) DELTA DAECHEON are others who can at least challenge for the places.

Selections(1) Querencia (3) Mangeum Crown (11) Beat Code (4) B.K. Vivace
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 9

Busan Race 1: Class 6 (1300M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Three-year-old filly maidens and it is competitive. (7) NEWWORLD TIARA ran 4th on debut over 1200M in a similar filly maiden to this on March 6th, settling close to the speed and not having enough late on. She should have derived benefit from that run and can get it right today. She will need to overturn the form on (5) POWERFUL DEVIL, who ran 2nd in that March 6th race, coming from off the pace. She has shown steady progress across three starts so far and can continue that here. (8) GOLDEN TIARA was an improved 2nd at start three over 1200M on March 1st and while well beaten by a good winner, can aim at least for the places again. (10) BABEL FOLGORE and (12) HUIMANG LOGI are among plenty of others who can step up.

Selections(7) Newworld Tiara (5) Powerful Devil (8) Golden Tiara (10) Babel Folgore
Next Best12, 9
Fast Start2, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1400M) Special Weight A / KRW 45 Million

Fillies only here. (9) FLYING SMART won a January trial and then came from well off the pace to run 2nd on debut over 1300M in a similar filly maiden to this on March 1st. She should have derived benefit from that experience and with some natural improvement, she can win this. (7) BLACK SUN is yet to get inside the top two but has five finishes between 3rd and 5th including her latest on March 8th when she beat a couple of these on her way to 4th at this distance. She can get a bit far back in her races, but she should be a danger late here. (1) CHEONJI LADY had hinted at ability prior to an almost eleven-month layoff. She should have come on for her run in February and from the inside gate can be on pace today. (4) QUEENS FLYING and (6) ROAD TO SPEAR are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Flying Smart (7) Black Sun (1) Cheonji Lady (4) Queens Flying
Next Best6, 10
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 10

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

After an ordinary debut, (8) KING BLACK has gone on to run 4th in four consecutive races, most recently stepping up to the mile for the first time on March 8th and beating a couple of today’s rivals. He’ll be on pace here and Seo Seung-un climbing on for the first time suggests today can be the day. (2) DIA X is a fifteen-start maiden but has been knocking on the door with no fewer than ten finishes between 2nd and 5th. He steps up to the mile for the first time and at this stage, it can suit. (9) NICE POWER comes in off her best finish to date when 2nd at this distance on March 20th and she can aim for the places again. (11) WORLD TREE and (12) FANTASTIC CAPTAIN others with place chances.

Selections(8) King Black (2) Dia X (9) Nice Power (11) World Tree
Next Best12, 6
Fast Start3, 5, 6, 8

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

After three consecutive 3rd place finishes, (7) RAON BLAIDE broke through on his first try at this class and distance on February 28th when on pace throughout. An apprentice claim means his carried weight only goes up by 1kg and he can win again. (2) MIGHTY BEAT only managed 6th of eleven last time out when well supported but prior to that he had a win and two placings over this trip and from a good draw and under a light weight, he is worth another chance. (11) SEUNGNI BAROWS was 2nd behind Raon Blaide in that February 28th race and while he has almost two-lengths to make up, he can be in the finish again. (4) DANAEUN STAR and (9) GIDAEHARA can also be considered on at least a place line.

Selections(7) Raon Blaide (2) Mighty Beat (11) Seungni Barows (4) Danaeun Star
Next Best9, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 10

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

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

The weekend’s racing gets underway at Busan on Friday with 8 races from 11:15 to 17: 55. Here are the previews:

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

Maidens with five of the twelve racing for the first time and a couple of the newcomers catch the eye. (7) POWER TIGER was very quick in trials, posting 61.8 seconds when 3rd behind two experienced horses, showing handy throughout. That form on race day can be winning. (6) BYEOLBIT SONATA won his trial, racing close to the speed throughout and stopping the clock in a decent time. Seo Seung-un’s booking will tempt plenty. Of the experienced ones, (9) BEST VALUE was an improved 3rd at start two over 1200M on March 1st when leading for much of the way. She should be on pace again and in this a long way. (10) BREEDO SHOOTER and (8) POWER HIT are others who can get better.

Selections(7) Power Tiger (6) Byeolbit Sonata (9) Best Value (10) Breedo Shooter
Next Best8, 12
Fast Start6, 7, 8, 9

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

Very ordinary maiden, although that means from a punting perspective, there are plenty of chances. (6) LIKE DRAGON has a 3rd place as recently as three starts back at this distance and enters off a fair 5th in a stronger event than this. Seo Seung-un is on for the first time and today could finally be the day. (3) BIG SMILE beat a couple of today’s rivals on her way to 4th place on March 6th coming from well off the pace. That was her best so far and with only four starts under her belt, she may more to offer. (11) DALBITWIE ran 2nd at 33/1 over 1300M two weeks ago. That was his first race since last August and it’s not impossible that he can strip fitter with a quick turnaround. (12) JEONGMUN SKIP and (7) PILSEUNG WINNER are others who could compete for the minors.

Selections(6) Like Dragon (3) Big Smile (11) Dalbitwie (12) Jeongmun Skip
Next Best7, 2
Fast Start1, 2, 6, 7

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

(9) MAENGNYONG was a class and distance winner on February 6th, leading all the way to score narrowly over Nice Buddy. Since then, he has been through a trial, in which he continued to look well, and while he comes up 3kg in weight and draws the widest gate, he can win again. (8) HUIMANG RANI is generally slow away but was even slower than usual when brushing the gate on exit on her return from over three months out on March 13th. She can strip fitter and has proven competitive at this level. (5) LEMON PIE hasn’t done much in two starts back from a lengthy absence but has won at this distance and in this company and third-up, she can be given a chance. (1) TTANBONG QUEEN and (2) JEOLDAE BOSS other place chances.

Selections(9) Maengnyong (8) Huimang Rani (5) Lemon Pie (1) Ttanbong Queen
Next Best2, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 9

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

Fillies and mares only. (2) ROAD TO NUMBER ONE won a trial in January and then scored on her debut over 1200M on February 27th, leading all the way. She is up in class here and slightly in trip, but she comes into a much better gate, and she can lead again and win again. (1) MOMENTUM struggled when tried over a mile on March 13th, settling handy but knocking up fast and only beating two. We’ll draw a line through that and instead go on her 2nd place two starts back at this trip and give her another chance today. (4) DOLPHIN KICK is yet to win but has placed twice at this class and distance this year already and can be in the mix again. (8) ARE YOU READY and (9) QUEEN WIND both broke through on their respective fourth starts and can be competitive at this level.

Selections(2) Road To Number One (1) Momentum (4) Dolphin Kick (8) Are You Ready
Next Best9, 3
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 9

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

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