27/04/2008  Shatin  Race 6

DRAGON EYE began awkwardly, then shortly afterwards was steadied and taken across behind runners. As the gates opened, ALL TIME HIGH lifted its front feet off the ground and then despite being ridden along in the early stages failed to muster speed. Near the 1100 Metres, EVER BEAUTY, which from a wide barrier was being taken back and across behind runners, got its head up. After the 1000 Metres, NORTH HILL became unbalanced when bumped by SPRING SUN which at this time shifted out. Near the 900 Metres, NORTH HILL was steadied away from the heels of SPRING SUN (E Saint-Martin) which shifted out when not clear. E Saint-Martin was told to exercise care. In the early part of the Straight, DRAGON EYE had difficulty obtaining clear running. Throughout the race, HONEST TREASURE travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the improved performance of the winner, KUNG FU, Mr D Cruz, trainer of the horse, said the horse has a history of leg problems. He said when the horse was disappointing at its most recent start, it was not suited when taken on in the lead. He said today from a wide barrier KUNG FU was able to work across gradually and take up an unchallenged lead at the 800 Metres. He said in his opinion the circumstances of today’s race were different from those of the horse’s most recent race start. E Saint-Martin said as today’s track appeared to be favouring horses travelling in front of midfield, from a favourable barrier it was decided to ride the horse in a more forward position than in its recent starts. He said SPRING SUN began only fairly, he then had to make some use of his mount to obtain a position in front of midfield. He said SPRING SUN travelled only fairly throughout the race, came under pressure on straightening and did not respond to his riding and over the final 200 Metres gave ground. He said in his opinion SPRING SUN may be better suited ridden more quietly and on a track surface which is firmer than that of today. SPRING SUN was sent for an official veterinary inspection and sampling. After the race, SPRING SUN was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said there were no significant findings other than he noted the horse to be making an abnormal breathing noise. B Prebble (NORTH HILL) explained he had ridden the horse in work leading up to today’s race and in his opinion that work had only been fair. He said today at no stage of the race did NORTH HILL travel well, hung out noticeably throughout the race and did not appear comfortable in its action. He said passing the 700 Metres NORTH HILL was struggling to hold its position and in the Straight gave ground. NORTH HILL was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of NORTH HILL after the race did not show any significant findings. Before being allowed to race again, NORTH HILL will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. KUNG FU and GLENEALY STAR were sent for sampling.