12/04/2008  Shatin  Race 8

Just prior to the start being effected, COUNTRY MUSIC got its head up and turned to the right. As a consequence, COUNTRY MUSIC was slow to begin. SANZIRO began awkwardly, shifted out and bumped the hindquarters of DANACOURT. As a result, both horses became unbalanced. PLANET RULER was slow to begin and was then steadied away from the heels of NATURAL BLITZ. After the 500 Metres, ALWAYS GIGGLE got its head on the side and hung out. Over the final 400 Metres, REGENCY HORSE hung out and proved difficult to ride. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of ABLE PRINCE, G Boss said as instructed he raced on the inside fence. He said ABLE PRINCE came under pressure joining the course proper and shortly after this was inclined to lay in. He said whilst ABLE PRINCE did not feel sore, he felt the horse was not striding out properly and in his opinion was mildly distressed after the race. ABLE PRINCE was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of ABLE PRINCE after the race did not show any significant findings. Before being allowed to race again, ABLE PRINCE will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Apprentice  K L Chui (COUNTRY MUSIC) explained he rode his mount which had drawn barrier 1 on the inside rail as instructed. He said COUNTRY MUSIC travelled satisfactorily until the 300 Metres, however, when placed under pressure did not respond to his riding and was disappointing. COUNTRY MUSIC was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of COUNTRY MUSIC after the race did not show any significant findings. ALWAYS GIGGLE, YELLOW DIAMOND and GOLD STRIKER were sent for sampling.