23/05/2010  Shatin  Race 9

BEAUTY EXPRESS was withdrawn on 21.5.10 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (left eye corneal ulcer) and was replaced by Standby Declared Starter GRAND STORE (Z Purton). THE RIFLE was withdrawn on 22.5.10 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (fever). Before being allowed to race again, BEAUTY EXPRESS and THE RIFLE will both be subjected to an official veterinary examination. On arrival at the Start, it was noted that PRAISING had lost its right front plate. This plate was refitted. PRAISING was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. WINNING EDGE was slow to begin. PRAISING threw its head up at the start. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, GRAND STORE was slow to muster speed. Near the 1000 Metres, GRAND STORE shifted in and bumped FARM LEGEND. After this, FARM LEGEND proved difficult to settle. Passing the 200 Metres, PRAISING got its head on the side, lay in and proved somewhat difficult to ride out. Near the 150 Metres, LOMBARDI was steadied away from the heels of PRAISING when that horse shifted in. Throughout the race, LOMBARDI travelled wide and without cover. M Du Plessis (GO LEGEND GO) reported that his mount hung out throughout the race. When questioned, B Prebble stated that, in his opinion, PRAISING was not comfortable on today’s racing surface and appeared to him to resent the kickback when racing back in the field. LONDON CHINA TOWN and FINAL ANSWER were sent for sampling.