Seoul

Seoul Trophy Exchange Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (September 3)

The day before the international Korea Cup and Korea Sprint sees a 10-race card at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. There are Trophy Exchange races with the Macau Jockey Club, Singapore Turf Club, Japan Racing Association, Hong Kong Jockey Club and Horse Racing Ireland. Each is worth 150 Million Won so plenty of good fields have been attracted. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens contest a big prize in the opener and six of the ten race for the very first time. Unusually, we will side with one of the first timers. (4) FARCIARZ went through two trials, drawn wide both times and improving in the second of them. He gets a good gate and a top jockey, and a bold showing seems likely first-up. (10) STRONG CHARM ran 2nd on debut and while he couldn’t follow up on his next outing, he still ran a good time. He won’t need to improve much on that to go close here. (7) MONSTER POWER was an on-pace 3rd in his trial in a fast time. He should be able to get on the pace here as well and can be in it a long way. (8) CATS EYE improved in the second of his two trials. It wasn’t a fast run heat so he could have potential to improve here. Returning to those with experience, (5) BEST CLONE didn’t do too much wrong on debut and can improve.

Selections(4) Farciarz (10) Strong Charm (7) Monster Power (8) Cats Eye
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 7, 8, 10

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

Fillies only here. (1) VESPER was beaten by a couple of these when a slightly below-par 4th on her latest start on August 13th. She can get a bit far back in her races but has shown a good turn of foot and if she can get herself in a spot where she is in contention, she has solid claims here. (2) P N S SING ran 2nd in that August 13th race, her best finish to date. She was on pace that day and is well drawn to do the same here and she should be in the finish again. (9) SONGAM NURI ran 3rd in that race, her best finish to date. An apprentice keeps her weight light again and she can be competitive. As for those who didn’t go in that August race, (6) HANGANG HERO enters with a 2nd and a 5th from her latest two, both in good times and along with (7) ARCH MEMORY, is another in the hunt.

Selections(1) Vesper (2) P N S Sing (9) Songam Nuri (6) Hangang Hero
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 3, 8, 11

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

A very ordinary set of maidens. (6) P N S THE KING is the only one of the twelve to have as much of a runner-up finish to his name and that, along with the fact he has shown some consistency is enough to make him favourite here. He comes in off a fair 5th of twelve in a good time over 1200M on August 20th and won’t need to improve too much on that here. (3) EUREKA has also put in some consistent efforts with three 4th place finishes from six starts. He steps up to this trip for the first time, should be on pace and should be looking for better than 4th this time. (8) BEST BIG BANG registered a 3rd place two starts back over this distance and that’s enough to put him in the frame here while (9) TWO ACE is yet to finish any better than 6th but does have the best time among those who have tackled the distance before. (10) SAEBYEOK BAND among others in the frame.

Selections(6) P N S The King (3) Eureka (8) Best Big Bang (9) Two Ace
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start3, 4, 8, 11

Seoul Race 4: Class Open (1200M) Macau Jockey Club Trophy / Allowance / KRW 150 Million

An also-ran in the Korean Derby, (7) BULBANGUL has since won back-to-back races at class 4 level, both over this distance, that latest an easy score in a fast time. That takes his record to four from seven in total and he will be a warm favourite here. He likes to settle back and run on, and he will take some beating. (4) WILD SOCKS enters having won his latest three, the latter two over 1400M at class 4 level. He has posted fast times at this distance too and from a good gate, can sit handy and finish well. (2) VICEROY is firmly established at class 3 level with three placings and a 4th from four attempts at it since winning at class 4 in February. He is up considerably in the weights from his last start 2nd but draws well to be on the pace and can be competitive again. (3) TOUGH GUY has only raced up to class 5 but exited that level with a last start over this distance in a very smart time. He is nicely suited under these conditions and can be competitive. (5) JOEUNGIRL, who has had an interrupted career but who has loads of ability, is the wildcard.

Selections(7) Bulbangul (4) Wild Socks (2) Viceroy (3) Tough Guy
Next Best5, 10
Fast Start2, 3, 5, 11

Seoul Race 5: Class Open (1200M) Singapore Turf Club Trophy / Allowance / KRW 150 Million

Fascinating filly and mare race with a big prize. (11) WISH ME has nine top two finishes from eleven starts and comes in having finished runner-up to Raon First in the Ttukseom Cup and to Calm Strong in the KNN Cup, both times with plenty of today’s rivals behind her. She comes back in trip, but she likes to be on pace and while the draw is a little wide, she can go close. (1) RAON THE SPURT was one of the standouts of the Filly Triple Crown trail with a 3rd and two runner-up finishes in the three races. She returned to class 3 company to win over 1800M on July 30th and while this is her first time back at a sprint distance since she was a juvenile, she had previously excelled at it. She can be on pace and is a big chance. (2) VICTOR MOON and (3) LOVELY K are both front-runners with class 2 form and should be competitive here while (13) LUCKY JAESAN is rising through the grades having won her latest two and has every chance of measuring up in this company.

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Seoul & Busan Rookie Stakes Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 28)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Selections(3) Wish Luck (4) Areumdaun Inyeon (2) Wonderful Ocean (10) Pretty Charm
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start2, 4, 9, 10
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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 27)

It’s the final week of the summer schedule so the last chance to watch some evening racing at Seoul. There are 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

Last chance to use this picture for 10 months

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

Filly juvenile maidens here with four of them racing for the first time. (4) RANUT went through two trials, qualifying in the first of them but then doing another on August 12th (a voluntary trial so it may not be reflected in all race cards). She sat handy in this heat before pulling clear to stop the clock in 61.9 seconds, five-lengths ahead of the rest. If she brings that form to the races, she has every chance first-up. (1) SEOUL GIPPEUM and (2) JAEWOO SIDAE ran 3rd and 4th with just a neck between them when they debuted over this distance on July 23rd. Both should be competing again, and the latter comes down in weight with an apprentice aboard. (9) RAON THE FLATTER ran a solid 4th on debut and can build on that here while returning to the first-timers (11) GLOBAL CHANGA won her heat, leading all the way. The draw does her no favours here but with some early luck, she can be in the finish.

Selections(4) Ranut (1) Seoul Gippeum (2) Jaewoo Sidae (9) Raon The Flatter
Next Best11, 6
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 7

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

(8) HIDDEN BLADE has hinted at ability across three starts to date, all at this distance and with a best of 3rd. She has run fair times too including her latest outing when handy throughout and finishing 4th. She can sit behind the speed here and run on. (10) GOLD POWER was an improved 2nd at start number two on July 31st, having led for almost the entire race. The draw isn’t ideal here but she with a little luck at the start, she can find her way to the front again and may be hard to pass. (7) DAECHEON BEAUTY wasn’t ready when she debuted last year but has been much better since returning in April, placing twice since then, both at this distance. She has the best finish of any of these and should be coming on strong at the business end of the race. (1) SARYEONI ROKEE and (5) GANGCHEOL BUDAE among others in the frame.

Selections(8) Hidden Blade (10) Gold Power (7) Daecheon Beauty (1) Saryeoni Rokee
Next Best5, 9
Fast Start3, 6, 9, 10

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

(5) SURE WIN has a 2nd and a 4th from two starts so far, both at 1000M and both in fast times He comes up in trip for the first time, but there is no reason why it can’t suit and from a nice draw, she can get to the lead. It’s not a sure win but she will be a short-priced favourite. (4) MORNING FIVE returned from four months out to run a solid 4th over 1300M on July 30th. She should strip fitter for that run and looks to be the main danger here. (3) HWANGOO GANGJA comes in following a much-improved runner-up finish over this distance last month. The same apprentice jockey (although only claiming 2kg now) keeps his weight relatively low and he can be competitive again. (12) GEUMSEONG SPEED and (10) RAY BOLT among others who can challenge for the places.

Selections(5) Sure Win (4) Morning Five (3) Hwangoo Gangja (12) Geumseong Speed
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start3, 5, 9, 12

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(9) RUBY CAT has been consistent with five of her six starts to date ending in 3rd to 5th place finishes. She returned on July 24th from a seven-month absence, picking up where she left off with a solid 3rd over this distance when on pace throughout and having benefitted from that run, looks ready to make the breakthrough here. This is a competitive race though and in (3) ECHO ZONE, there is another with solid claims. He came from midfield to run a good 2nd at this distance on July 30th in a fast time and won’t need to improve much on that run to win here. (2) SECRET KING is a debut-maker who went through two trials, improving in the second of them. He draws nicely here to get on pace and can place first-up. (4) STAR CRAZY and (5) GRACE LEE are others in the hunt.

Selections(9) Ruby Cat (3) Echo Zone (2) Secret King (4) Star Crazy
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 9

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

(6) KING HONOUR has beaten some of today’s rivals in each of his last three outings, coming home 4th, 2nd and 3rd, the latter two at this distance. Last time out he sat handy before running on well for 2nd, albeit well beaten by a good winner, and in doing so posted a time for this distance faster than anything else here has recorded. He should win this. Plenty of others come in with recent form reading positively though. (1) RUNNER MONSTER was 4th behind King Honor on his latest appearance on July 2nd. He draws well here and can go close again. (4) TRIPLE JOY comes up in trip after a useful 3rd over 1300M on July 31st. He has been finishing off his races well and this can suit. (3) WONDERFUL PURGE too may appreciate the additional furlong having run on well for 5th on debut at 1200M in June. (11) QUIET CHARM among others in the placing frame.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 20)

Saturday’s racing is an afternoon/evening program at Seoul with 10 races from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile filly maidens go here with seven of the twelve racing for the first time. We’ll side with experience for the first couple of picks though and (7) SUPREME STAR is likely to start as favourite based on her debut on July 23rd, when she led almost the entire way around, only to get caught in the closing stages and finishing 2nd in a good time. She won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. (9) HAENGBOKAN MUNMAK was well backed on debut having won a trial and ran fairly, sitting midfield and running on for 3rd. With some natural improvement, she will be there or thereabouts for this. Among the debut-makers, (5) SAENAE QUEEN went through two July trials, winning one in a good time. From a good draw, she is one of the likely pacesetters here. (6) COMPLETE ANGEL won her trail and is another who can make a bold showing first-up. Also notable among the first-timers is (11) RAON THE QUALITY. She finished well back behind Saenae Queen in her trial but is “full” sister to Raon The Spurt, who went close in the filly Triple Crown races this year.

Selections(7) Supreme Star (9) Haengbokan Munmak (5) Saenae Queen (6) Complete Angel
Next Best11, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 8

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

Three-year-old maidens and (5) TANGJA will be the favourite. He has a 2nd and a 3rd from his latest two having been on pace both times. He’ll be on pace here as well and after a seven-week layoff and with Moon Se-young climbing aboard, he should be ready to win. (1) HUIMANG GADEUK returns to action for the first time since January. Her best in three outings was a 5th but she looked well when runner-up in a trial in a quick time on July 29th. She draws very nicely here and could be intriguing. (9) HANGANG DOLPUNG has placed twice in four starts including a 3rd at his latest on July 16th in a good time over this distance. He’ll go close here. (7) MIGHTY ANN and (10) P N S THE KING are other potential placers.

Selections(5) Tangja (1) Huimang Gadeuk (9) Hangang Dolpung (7) Mighty Ann
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 12

Seoul Race 3: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 40 Million

(10) KINGS EYE has made steady progress across three starts to date, running 3rd on his latest appearance on June 25th when settling back and running on. He comes slightly up in trip today and it might be just what he needs to make his breakthrough. (6) K N TIZWON looks the logical main danger. He comes in off back-to-back 3rd place finishes, most recently at this distance in a good time on July 30th. An apprentice jockey keeps his weight down again and he could well be on the pace from the start. (8) DIVINE FUTURES has shown good consistency recently and has two 3rd places to his name, one at this distance. He can settle midfield and run on into some money again. (1) JILJUUI KHAN and (5) CHEONSONGI, both much improved at their respective latest starts, are others in at least the placing frame.

Selections(10) Kings Eye (6) K N Tizwon (8) Divine Futures (1) Jiljuui Khan
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start3, 4, 6, 10

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

Another race with another probable short-priced favourite, this time in the shape of (4) K FRENZY. He is yet to win in twelve attempts but has no fewer than seven top-three finishes and comes in after a narrow defeat at class and distance on July 16th. He can be on pace or handy in this field and may take some beating. If he does come up short again, (2) PIEONADA is the logical one to beat him. He has a 2nd and two 3rd place finishes from his latest three outings, all off them at class and distance and has consistently recorded good times. He draws well and is a danger. (3) TTEOOREUDA was a solid 4th on her first try at this class on July 23rd. She comes down slightly in the weights here and can go close again. The up in class (1) CHOEGANG JANGSAN, as well as (8) SMART POWER are among others in the money hunt.

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Seoul Sunday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 14)

With Busan taking the weekend off, the only Sunday meeting is at Seoul where there is a day time meeting of 15 races from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens kick things off with five of the eight racing for the very first time. The hot favourite though will be the only one to have two starts under his saddlecloth in the shape of (1) WONPYEONG KILLAR. After running 5th on debut, he ran a good 2nd on July 2nd settling back and running on. He won’t need to improve much on that performance to win here. The greatest danger may come from a front-running debut-maker. (3) BIG SMART went through three trials, improving each time and crossed the line first in the latest of those when on pace throughout. The time wasn’t fast but she has had a month for potential improvement and could put in a bold showing. (7) TAKE MUSIC also showed towards the head of the field in her trial and similarly may go well here. The other experienced pair of (6) STARLET and (5) TOHO SKY are others to consider.

Selections(1) Wonpyeong Killar (3) Big Smart (7) Take Music (6) Starlet
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start3, 4, 57

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

It would be surprising if (3) DONGTEUJA WAY doesn’t have a win in him sooner rather than later. He has performed fairly in his two starts so far recording a time for this distance faster than anything else in the race when 5th on July 3rd. He has trialed since then, stopping the clock in a good time and from a good draw should be on pace and can win. (7) YEONHUI SARANG has been improving in recent outings with a 4th place at this distance on July 16th her best so far. She’ll be on or close to the pace here and can go even closer. (1) NB JEONSA has a 3rd place to his name over this distance and from a great draw should be in the mix again. (8) POSA POSA and (4) STAR PRINCESS are others capable of filling out the minors.

Selections(3) Dongteuja Way (7) Yeonhui Sarang (1) NB Jeonsa (8) Posa Posa
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 3, 6, 7

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

Tricky race. (5) BLACK BEOMI just about gets the nod following her much-improved 2nd place over this distance on June 4th when overcoming a wide draw to sit handy and run on. Without an apprentice claim today, she comes up 3kg in the weights but she finds herself with a better draw and she can win. (1) MY GONGJU is another who improved on his latest appearance, running a goof 3rd over this distance in a fair time on June 12th. He has tended to get too far back in his races so far and the inside gate should help today. (7) GUK HYANG has been consistently close across her eleven starts and has posted some decent times. She will settle back and can run into some money. (2) HANGANG HERO and (9) BANGTAN YEOGEOL among others in the placing frame.

Selections(5) Black Beomi (1) My Gongju (7) Guk Hyang (2) Hangang Hero
Next Best9, 6
Fast Start2, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(7) JEONGMUN PAPAGO is set to be the hot favourite here. Following an inauspicious debut, he has finished 3rd and 2nd in two subsequent starts, that 2nd coming over this distance last time out on July 2nd when handy all the way and beaten by a good winner. His time that day was faster than anything else in this race has registered for the distance and he should break through here. (6) VICTORY SAM is two starts into a comeback following almost a year out. She’s been on pace in both of them and stayed on fairly for 4th over 1300M on July 2nd. She should be at peak fitness for this, can lead again and be in it a long way. (8) WONDERFUL MUSKET returned from fifteen months out to run a creditable 3rd over this distance on July 3rd. She should be fitter for that run and can go close. (5) DEVIL K and (2) JAKDUKONG others in the hunt.

Selections(7) Jeongmun Papago (6) Victory Sam (8) Wonderful Musket (5) Devil K
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start5, 6, 7, 9

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

Another race with a probable short-priced favourite. (4) RESERVED JOHN has run well across her five starts to date, culminating in a runner-up finish over 1300M on July 10th. She has been finishing off her races well and the additional trip today can suit. The most experienced horse in the race is (8) BITNANEUN JILJU and while that is a somewhat dubious honour at class 6, he has run well enough at this distance including his last start 4th. A similar run here will see him closer. There isn’t much early speed here so (3) VINCERO KING should be able to get to the lead from a good draw. He is up in weight from his 3rd place over 1200M on July 9th but he should be competitive here. (2) HANI and (5) BLOW MIND are others who can make a bid for the minors.

Selections(4) Reserved John (8) Bitnaneun Jilju (3) Vincero King (2) Hani
Next Best5, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 7

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1400M) Handicap / KRW 60 Million

(4) LAST PUNCH has been ultra-consistent across her eight starts so far with her latest outing producing her best finish when 2nd 1200M, coming from well off the pace. She has run well at this distance before and from a good gate, can this time sit on or close to the pace and then run on. Today can be her day. The probable favourite is (9) JAY PHOENIX. He is yet to finish any worse than 3rd in three starts and he steps up to this distance for the first time having run 2nd on his first try at class 5 over 1200M on June 11th. He should be able to overcome the wide gate to get on pace and he has every chance. (8) YEONGUNG DAEMA and (3) SMART BYEOL came home 3rd and 5th when they raced each other at class and distance on July 3rd and both can be aiming to improve here. (1) FIRST ROAD, the only one in the field to have won at the distance, is another in the placing frame.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (August 13)

After a week off, racing returns to Seoul on Saturday with an 10-race afternoon and evening card running from 14:50 to 21:00. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens kick things off. (7) ARGO GONGJU is the only one of these who has raced twice before and that’s probably enough to send her off as favourite. She improved to 3rd at the second time of asking on July 23rd when she sat midfield and ran on adequately enough and she won’t need to improve too much on that to win here. Regarding adequate, (6) CRAZY LOVE improved significantly out of her trials to run 6th of nine on a fair time on debut. She should have benefited from that run and can make progress here. There are two debut makers here and (3) WOLF PLAY showed on pace in his trial. He is well drawn to do the same here and can be in this a long way. (8) DREAM SKY and (2) LEGAL HIGH are others in the placing frame.

Selections(7) Argo Gongju (6) Crazy Love (3) Wolf Play (8) Dream Sky
Next Best2, 1
Fast Start3, 6, 7, 8

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

More juvenile maidens with three of the nine racing for the first time. The favourite will be (9) RAON FOREST, who beat two of these on his way to a runner-up finish on debut on July 9th, when he settled midfield and ran on well in a good time. He won’t need to improve much on that to win here. (5) COMPLETE LEVEL looks the best of the first-timers. He went through two trials, significantly improving in the second of them, running on pace throughout and crossing the line in front. If he can bring that form to the races, then he won’t be far away. (1) GEUMBITMA was 4th on debut on the same race as Raon Forest. Drawn nicely on the inside, he can get closer today. (8) THUNDER BRAVO and (2) ROCK IMPACT others who can build on their debut showings.

Selections(9) Raon Forest (5) Complete Level (1) Geumbitma (8) Thunder Bravo
Next Best2, 4
Fast Start1, 5, 8, 9

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

Fillies (and one mare) only here. Apprentice jockey O Su-cheol has had quite the start to his career with his sixteen rides to date yielding four winners already. A fifth isn’t impossible here as (3) LUCKY INDY has a runner-up finish to her name over this trip in a fast time and with the 4kg claim, looks very nicely in. She draws well to get on or close to the speed and has every chance. (8) BEST FALCON is probably the main danger. She has shown steady improvement across four starts so far, culminating in a 3rd place last time out on July 24th when on pace throughout. She too should be on the early speed and will be in this a long way. (1) GEUMA WITTY comes back in trip after a decent 3rd place over 1300M on July 3rd, her best finish so far, and from the inside gate can match or better today. (9) WONDERFUL MUSIC and (4) SWEET KAKAO others in the placing frame.

Selections(3) Lucky Indy (8) Best Falcon (1) Geuma Witty (9) Wonderful Music
Next Best4, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 9

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1200M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

More maiden fillies. (4) VESPER has a runner-up finish to her name over this distance, which she achieved two starts back at the end of May when settling right at the rear of the field and then running on well. She followed that up with a 5th place over 1300M and in this company, so long as she doesn’t leave herself too much to do, can win. (8) TANSAN has hinted at ability over three starts so far. She too has tended to find herself a bit far back, but she runs on well and can be a danger late on here. (6) SPEAR QUEEN ran a much-improved 2nd at this distance on July 9th, settling midfield and finishing strongly. A similar run will put her very close here. (5) P N S SING and (3) WONDER RACER others to consider.

Selections(4) Vesper (8) Tansan (6) Spear Queen (5) P N S Sing
Next Best3, 10
Fast Start3, 5, 7, 10

Seoul Race 5: Class 6 (1300M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(3) GEONGONILCHEOK is yet to finish in the first-two but has no fewer than five top-five finishes to his name from seven starts, including a 3rd place over this trip. He has a good start on him and draws well to get to the lead today, giving himself every chance of being in this a very long way. (7) CLAIR POWER is a big danger. He is yet to finish outside the top-five in four attempts and has a 3rd place at this distance in a good time on his record. Compared with most rivals here, he has good early speed, as well as a strong finish, and could well start as favourite. (1) BOSS BABY has performed fairly over seven starts so far with his latest 5th over 1200M on July 17th his best. That was a decent showing and from the inside gate, he should be looking to improve on that here. (2) TIZ FIGHTING and (4) QUIET CHARM others who can enter the calculations.

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

It’s daytime racing on Sunday with 11 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00 and a short 5-race card at Busan from 12:20 to 16:10. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens here with all but three racing for the first time. Those three all raced well though on their respective debuts and will be at the top of the market. (3) SURE WIN will be hot favourite. Having won a trial in early June, she then ran 2nd on debut on June 25th, racing on-pace throughout and registering a good time. A repeat of that performance will make her very hard to beat. The name does sound like tempting fate though so if you want to take on the favourite, (4) KWAEHYANG is the logical choice. He was also close to the speed on debut on June 25th (in a different race), coming home 4th on a decent time. He should have come on for that and be a danger here. (9) NAVY CHROME was 4th behind Sure Win on debut and can also improve here. As for the first timers, (8) SUN DRAGON ran the fastest time in trials and can be considered while (5) RAON THE COBRA ran 2nd in his trial in a fair time and is sure to get plenty of attention.

Selections(3) Sure Win (4) Kwaehyang (9) Navy Chrome (8) Sun Dragon
Next Best5, 2
Fast Start2, 3, 4, 9

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

A maiden with ten fillies and one gelding. (4) RAY BOLT comes in off a 2nd and a 4th from her latest two, where she has settled just behind the early speed and then run on. She draws well to so similar today and she could have enough about her to win this. (7) GOLD POWER showed enough on debut to put her among the leading contenders here. She led for much of the way around at this distance on June 25th, ultimately finishing 5th but posting a decent time. She should have improved for that run and may even start as favourite. (10) ZELOS has shown signs in his latest two starts of finally figuring things out with a 2nd and 3rd, both at this distance. He has settled back and ran on both times so the wide draw isn’t of concern, and he can maintain his positive run of form. (2) MONEY STONE and (9) ARCH MEMORY others who can place.

Selections(4) Ray Bolt (7) Gold Power (10) Zelos (2) Money Stone
Next Best9, 2
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 7

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

(2) GOLDEN HONOR made a good impression on debut on April 9th when he finished 2nd over this distance. It’s taken a while for him to get back to the track, but he looks nicely in here and from a great draw, looks to be the one to beat. (3) PERFECT TIME has the fastest time for this distance among those who have tackled it before. That was recorded when she finished 2nd two starts back on June 5th when she settled back and ran on. Going on that run rather than her latest, she has a chance here. (8) NAEGILUI BYEOL stepped up to this trip on June 26th and ran an improved 3rd. He is another who can sit midfield early and then run on. (6) TRIPLE JOY has hinted at ability across three starts so far and along with (10) PERMISSION TO WIN is another in the frame.

Selections(2) Golden Honor (3) Perfect Time (8) Naegilui Byeol (6) Triple Joy
Next Best10, 7
Fast Start2, 3, 6, 10

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

A maiden with three of the eleven racing for the first time and unusually, we are not going to side with experience this time. That’s due to (3) GEUMA PASSIONATE, who showed enough over the course of two trials to suggest he can win first-up. He led in the latest of those and while Group winner Mr. Afleet did cruise past him in the latter stages, there don’t appear many candidates among this lot to do that. He can lead all the way. If you prefer to stick with experience, (11) BAEDARI GANGHO could be the one. He comes in off a good 2nd place on June 17th when he overcame the widest gate. That suggests that the same wide draw won’t be an issue and he can work home strong again. (8) TEUKGEUP CAMP was a significant improver last start on June 26th when he beat a couple of these on his way to 3rd over this distance. He can match that here. The form drops off a bit after that but (7) SIMPLE KALIX will have backers while (1) LOUD COLOR is another who can improve.

Selections(3) Geuma Passionate (11) Baedari Gangho (8) Teukgeup Camp (7) Simple Kalix
Next Best1, 2
Fast Start1, 5, 7, 8

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

Competitive race for fillies and mares. (1) HWASUBOON perhaps has the edge. She was a winner at class 6 level over this distance three starts back and while he didn’t go well over 1300M on her first try at this level in March, she was a decent 5th on her latest appearance back over this trip on June 25th. The draw means she may get a soft run to the lead and that could make the difference. (3) MUSTANG CHARM is still a maiden but comes up in class with two runner-up finishes from her latest three. She comes down in the weights and can sit behind the early speed and run on. (10) HIGH RUNNER beat Mustang Charm on her way to victory over this distance at class 6 level in June. She too can measure up in this company and can be considered. (5) GEOLJAK WOMAN and (11) HWANGGEUM CHEONJI both need their latest starts overlooked but otherwise have form that holds up in this company.

Selections(1) Hwasuboon (3) Mustang Charm (10) High Runner (5) Geoljak Woman
Next Best11, 8
Fast Start1, 2, 4, 11

Busan Race 2: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(1) QUEEN ALLIE may be yet to break through, but she comes up in class anyway following two runner-up finishes from three starts. At her latest, she overcame gate eleven to sit midfield and then run on well, albeit well beaten by a good winner. She comes down in weight here, draws a good gate and she can win. (7) TWO OF US comes up in class too, in her case following a maiden win at start number four over 1200M on June 26th.  She is an on-pace galloper who can be expected to lead here and to be in this a long way. (9) BEST WIND enters off two very solid class and distance performances, finishing 2nd to Named in June and then on July 10th, beating a couple of today’s rivals when an on-pace 4th. She remains nicely weighted and surely goes close. (5) SPICE INDIE and (3) JEONGDEUN-RO are others in the hunt.

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Seoul Saturday: Race-By-Race Preview (July 30)

Saturday’s action is at Seoul where there is a lengthy 15-race program running from 2pm to 9pm. Here are the previews:

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

Juvenile maidens on the opener with seven of the eleven making their racecourse debuts. We’ll go with experience and (3) GEUMA ALLURE was an in no way disgraced 6th of nine on debut over this trip on June 18th when settling back and running on in a fair time. She comes into a better gate today and that experience can prove valuable. So it can for (10) NEMO PRINCE. He ran 2nd in a trial before finishing in 5th of eight on his debut on June 25th, also settling back and running on. He draws wider here but should be a danger. Of the first-time starters, (2) EFFEL TAP ran 3rd in a trial earlier this month. He raced handy and with not much early speed here, from a good draw he can possibly lead here. (6) BAEDARI GONGJU and (7) GIPPEUM HWANHO other debut-makers who may go close.

Selections(3) Geuma Allure (10) Nemo Prince (2) Effel Tap (6) Baedari Gongju
Next Best7, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 7, 8

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

Having run 3rd on debut, (4) HIDDEN BLADE was sent off as favourite for her second start which came at this distance on July 9th. Although she led, she weakened in the closing stages finishing down the pack. She can be given another chance here and with Munro taking the ride and a good draw again, this time she may make no mistake. (1) YONGCHEON JISANG took a couple of goes to figure things out but has a 2nd and a 4th from his latest two, both at this distance. He draws very nicely again to drop in behind the early speed and run on. (7) SHOOTING REVERSE was an improved 2nd on her most recent outing over this distance on June 26th, albeit a fair distance behind a good winner. Her style has been to settle back and come from off the pace and she can be a danger here late on. (5) HWARANG TODAY raced just the once, all the way back in October of last year and showed promise, running 2nd over 1000M. He looked well when trialing on July 8th and can put in a big show first-up here. (10) DUSON DRIVE another in the frame.

Selections(4) Hidden Blade (1) Yongcheon Jisang (7) Shooting Reverse (5) Hwarang Today
Next Best10, 11
Fast Start2, 4, 5, 10

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

Wide open race. (7) LAST CALL has the fastest time among these at the distance, recorded when 4th last December. He was out for seven months after that, returning with a 5th place over this distance on July 10th. He will have needed that and while he does come up 3kg, can go closer today. (10) K N TIZWON has three top-four finishes among four starts so far. He comes in following his best of 3rd over 1200M on June 11th. An apprentice takes 4kg off his back and he can be a big danger here. (9) STAR CRAZY also benefits from an apprentice claim. He led for much of the way around at his latest start on July 3rd, ultimately running 2nd and while the draw doesn’t favour him this time, he has enough speed to get forward early and be in this a long way. (3) ECHO ZONE and (2) GLOBAL STORM others with placing claims.

Selections(7) Last Call (10) K N Tizwon (9) Star Crazy (3) Echo Zone
Next Best2, 11
Fast Start4, 7, 9, 10

Seoul Race 4: Class 6 (1400M) Allowance / KRW 25 Million

(11) KING HONOR comes in off his best finish to date when 2nd over this distance on July 2nd having raced handily throughout. He has the fastest time among these for the distance and while he draws the car park here, he doesn’t necessarily need to lead and should have enough about him to get the job done here. (8) EUNHYE RECORD comes in off a best finish to date of 2nd, scored over 1300M on June 26th when settling midfield and running on well. He has run fairly at this distance too and looks to be the main danger to the favourite. (3) P N S THE KING has a 2nd place to his name and is another who has shown ability at this distance. He draws well here and can be a threat. (10) NEOREUL EUNGWONHAE and (4) HEEMANG WARRIOR among others in the frame.

Selections(11) King Honor (8) Eunhye Record (3) P N S The King (10) Neoreul Eungwonhae
Next Best4, 1
Fast Start1, 6, 10, 11

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

(9) CONCORDE SPURT is the one to beat here. He steps up to this trip for the first time having shown good ability over 1200M including his last start runner-up finish at this class when he settled midfield and ran on. His solitary win was gate to wire so he is tactically versatile and should have too much for this field. (8) NONSTOP WINNING doesn’t exactly do that but he does come in following a good 3rd place at class and distance last time out on June 25th. A similar run will put him in the finish here. (4) BLUE CHARM enters off back-to-back 3rd places at 1700M and 1200M. He’s run fair times at this trip too and shouldn’t be too far away again. (1) NEW SMART is up in class but down in weight and can be competitive (2) MIR POWER, a last start winner over 1300M, also comes up in class and can measure up.

Selections(9) Concorde Spurt (8) Nonstop Winning (4) Blue Charm (1) New Smart
Next Best2, 7
Fast Start2, 6, 7, 10

Seoul Race 6: Class 5 (1200M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

Wide open race. (4) WORLD KING MAN ran 2nd on debut before winning at start number two, both over 1000M and both times handy throughout. He comes up in class here and out in trip, but both can be overcome, and he has every chance of winning again. (10) A ONE STAR has very similar form coming up in class following victory at his second start over 1000M on June 25th. He settled back and worked through the line well so the step up in trip can suit. (2) CHANGER is another up in class after a maiden win. In his case it was at the sixth time of asking on July 3rd, but it was over this distance. He has plenty of weight to carry but draws well and can be competitive. (6) DOWN THE ZONE and (5) BURUI GASOK are others with solid claims.

Selections(4) World King Man (10) A One Star (2) Changer (6) Down The Zone
Next Best5, 7
Fast Start4, 5, 6, 9

Seoul Race 7: Class 5 (1300M) Handicap / KRW 40 Million

(7) DREAM K won on debut over 1200M back in May before running 2nd to Cosmo on her first try at this class and distance on June 19th. It was a fast time, and a similar run will see her home on top here. (1) GEUMSEONG CROWN comes up in class following a comfortable win over this distance on July 2nd. He draws nicely on the inside and can be competitive at this level. (5) SEMYEONG NARAE has plenty of experience at this level and her recent form reads well, especially her class and distance 2nd place on June 26th. She has consistently run good times at 1300M and will be in the hunt for another place finish here. (10) HOEDURYEONG has the fastest time of any of these over the trip and along with (2) BICHUI DAERYUK is another in the money frame.

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Owners’ Cup Sunday: Busan & Seoul Race-By-Race Preview (July 24)

The Owners’ Cup (1600M KOR-G3) is the feature race of the day as Raon The Fighter seeks to get back to winning ways after two shock defeats. See here for a horse-by-horse preview of the race. The Owners’ Cup is the concluding race 7 at Busan on a card that runs from 11:35 to 17:05. There are 10 races at Seoul from 10:45 to 18:00. Here are the previews:

Meni Hero was a surprise winner of last year’s Owners’ Cup (Pic: KRA)

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

A juvenile maiden to open with and while the field is small, it’s a good one. (7) GIANT PUNCH is worth favourite status having run the fastest time among these on his debut on June 18th when handy throughout. He’ll probably sit handy again and could prove too strong late on. The latest off Raon’s Musket Man production line is (6) RAON THE HIGHMAN. He debuts here having won a trial in a fast time in June and he looks set for a bold showing first-up. (1) STRONG CHARM was a good 2nd on debut on June 25th. Expect him to be on pace from the inside gate and he should be in this a long way. (2) DUSON CLASSIC and (4) WHITE WITCH came home 2nd and 4th when they debuted together on June 18th. Their times were only fair, but both hinted at ability and there could be some natural improvement here.

Selections(7) Giant Punch (6) Raon The Highman (1) Strong Charm (2) Duson Classic
Next Best4, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 5, 6

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

Three-year-old maiden fillies and it’s hard to look past (9) INNER PEACE. She has run 3rd in both her starts to date, both at this distance and registering good times. She has run on the pace both times so the draw may not be ideal, but she should be able to overcome it and will take some beating. (5) BARAMSAL looks to be figuring things out with three 4th place finishes from her latest three outings. She should settle midfield and run on and should be aiming for a career best finish here. (6) SPEED ACE was an improved 3rd at start number two on June 26th, settling back and running on. He can be a contender here. (2) MONEY TAP and (8) COSMO QUEEN among others with placing chances.

Selections(9) Inner Peace (5) Baramsal (6) Speed Ace (2) Money Tap
Next Best8, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 7, 9

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

Juvenile maidens with four of the eight racing for the first time. (4) DOCTOR OSCAR will start as the hot favourite, having run 2nd on debut on June 24th, beating three of today’s rivals in the process. She was on pace throughout and should get into the lead here and go all the way. Of the first-timer starters, (6) K.AI looks the pick. He led practically the entire way in his trial in early June, crossing the line well clear of the field in a fair time. If he can bring that form to the races, then he has a good chance. (2) RELEASE EDITION ran 5th on debut behind Doctor Oscar in that June 24th race. With some natural improvement from that run, he can get closer today. (5) PEOPLE POWER and (7) NALA, the latter a first-time starter, others who could potentially place.

Selections(4) Doctor Oscar (6) K.Ai (2) Release Edition (5) People Power
Next Best7, 1
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

A competitive race with plenty of chances. (7) RUBY CAT showed plenty of promise across five starts in 2021 with a best of 3rd over 1200M. She also ran well at this distance. She races for the first time since last December but looked well when winning a June trial and has every chance of a bold first-up showing here. If the lengthy layoff raises a red flag, then (11) EUNPA MOUNTAIN is the logical pick. After a chastening debut, he has run 3rd and 4th in two starts since, both at 1200M. He draws wide but the additional half furlong can suit, and he can be a danger. (2) BLOW MIND comes back in trip following recent work over 1700M. He has a 3rd place to his name at this distance and from a good draw can go close today. (4) GANGCHEOL BUDAE and (10) SONGAM DRAGON others in the frame.

Selections(7) Ruby Cat (11) Eunpa Mountain (2) Blow Mind (4) Gangcheol Budae
Next Best10, 5
Fast Start4, 7, 10, 11

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

Tricky puzzle here. (5) HANSEN ICHEON returns for the first time since last November. He had shown ability in three starts last year with a 3rd place over 1400M his best. He impressed in a July 2nd trial when handy to the lead and crossing the line with the same time as the “winner”. If he brings that form to the races, he may win. (1) SKY SEUNG races for the first time. The filly good when trialing up in June and draws a very nice gate on the inside. She can go close in what is not an intimidating race to debut in. (3) MORNING MUSE has been consistent with a 5th and a 3rd from his latest two. His times haven’t been spectacular but in the absence of much gate speed here, he may get a soft run to the front and could take some dislodging. (8) SKY ARCH and (4) PUNGAN JOHWA others with placing chances.

Selections(5) Hansen Icheon (1) Sky Seung (3) Morning Muse (8) Sky Arch
Next Best4, 7
Fast Start1, 3, 4, 6

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

(1) THE FAVORITE will, for once, be exactly that. Yet to score in eight, he has six top-four finishes including his latest on July 9th when running 2nd at class and distance. From the inside gate and in this small field he can get a soft lead and make all. (2) SAEROUN BOBAE is yet to win in twenty-four starts but knows how to pick up a cheque with eleven top-five finishes. That includes a 3rd at her latest outing on May 8th and she has solid claims to place again. (5) MAIN OF KING is another many-start maiden but he too comes in with recent form reading well, especially her 2nd place two starts back at class and distance. She can be handy to the speed here and run on. (7) STAR RUSH and (6) FEDERAL EYE others with money chances.

Selections(1) The Favorite (2) Saeroun Bobae (5) Main Of King (7) Star Rush
Next Best6, 3
Fast Start1, 2, 3, 5

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

Competitive race. (8) LADY GOLDEN won over this distance at class 3 level two starts back, coming out of the widest gate to settle midfield and then run on well. She then ran a creditable 4th on her first try at this level over the extended 1400M on June 19th. She looks nicely in here, Perovic knows her well, and she can win. (6) TAMNA HANEUL is vastly experienced and the seven-year-old is seemingly having a late career resurgence with a 3rd and a 2nd from her latest two. She gets in here under a very light weight, draws well, and can go close again. (9) RAON THE FLASH is yet to win n eight starts but has five top-four finishes. She comes in following a useful class and distance 2nd on June 26th and should be competitive again today. (5) HALLOWEEN PARTY comes up in class and distance but can measure up while (1) GIANT CAL is another who could potentially place.

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