24/11/2013  Shatin  Race 1

PEARL STAR began very awkwardly, losing a significant amount of ground at the start. Before being allowed to race again, PEARL STAR will be required to perform satisfactorily in a stalls test. ARCHIPPUS, which was leaning on the inside of its gate, began awkwardly and then was bumped on the hindquarters by PEARL STAR, resulting in ARCHIPPUS becoming unbalanced. SLEDGE HAMMER and GOLD PRECIOUS bumped heavily at the start, resulting in both horses becoming badly unbalanced. In the early stages, EVERYONE’S CHOICE got its head up on a number of occasions and after the 600 Metres commenced to lay out under pressure. The performance of SKY FIRE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, SKY FIRE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. K Teetan, the rider of the 4th placegetter, HORSE SUPREMO, was reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out to the end of the race wherever circumstances permit. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of XI YING MEN, D Whyte stated that after beginning well from an inside barrier, he was able to shift across to follow GORGEOUS DEBUT in the early stages. He said his mount did not travel at any stage of the race and came under pressure after the 600 Metres to hold its position. He added despite being ridden out for the remainder of the race, XI YING MEN responded only fairly and, in his opinion, was disappointing. A veterinary inspection of XI YING MEN immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The Stewards opened an inquiry into T H So’s riding of TEAM WORK, particularly over about the final 300 Metres. After taking evidence from T H So and Mr Y S Tsui, the trainer of TEAM WORK, the inquiry was adjourned until a date to be fixed. A veterinary inspection of TEAM WORK immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. PURE FORCE and ARCHIPPUS were sent for sampling.