21/09/2008  Shatin  Race 9

The Stewards today interviewed Mr J Size, the trainer of SIGHT WINNER, as to the circumstances regarding the horse being mistakenly treated with the anti-ulcer medication E-gard, which contains an active ingredient of omeprazole, on Saturday 20 September 2008. Omeprazole is a prohibited substance as defined by the Rules. Also interviewed was Mr W Y Hon, head lad. SIGHT WINNER was withdrawn by order of the Stewards on Saturday 20 September 2008. Mr Size pleaded guilty to being in breach of Rule 50(2) in that he failed in his responsibility for the work of the stable staff allocated to him which resulted in SIGHT WINNER being mistakenly treated. In deciding the appropriate penalty, the Stewards considered Mr Size’s previous record in relation to breaches of this Rule. For this breach, Mr Size was fined $25,000. Mr Hon was advised a report regarding his involvement in this matter would be forwarded to the Stables Management for any action they deem appropriate. After being boxed, EXPRESS WIN became fractious, reared and sat down. EXPRESS WIN was removed from its stall and examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. ROYAL PRINCE began awkwardly and lost ground. FEARLESS was slow to begin. At the 1200 Metres, SUNNY KING got its head up when being steadied away from the heels of EXPRESS WIN. After the 1200 Metres, TOP HONOR blundered when crowded for room between SILVER SUN which shifted in slightly and SUNNY KING which was carried out by NOBLE CONQUEROR. No action was taken. Near the 800 Metres, VIVA MACAU was steadied when crowded for room inside NOBLE CONQUEROR which got its head on the side and shifted in. ROYAL PRINCE, which was following, was steadied. After the 600 Metres, ROYAL PRINCE was again steadied away from the heels of VIVA MACAU. From on straightening until the 200 Metres, FEARLESS was held up and unable to obtain clear running. At the 50 Metres, NOBLE CONQUEROR was steadied while awkwardly placed between SUNNY KING and ROYAL PRINCE. In the Straight, EGYPTIAN RA and OURAJA hung in. Throughout the race, SILVER SUN travelled wide and without cover. OURAJA, EGYPTIAN RA and GALLANT LION were sent for sampling.