04/11/2009  Shatin  Race 3

VIVA GUY and FAIR NAVIGATOR bumped at the start due to both horses shifting ground. Then, for a short distance after the start, VIVA GUY and FAIR NAVIGATOR raced tight between MY WHISKY and NAMJONG HUNTER, both of which shifted ground. Making the first turn, TREASURABLE was steadied when awkwardly placed close to the heels of HIGH RETURN. Passing the 250 Metres, HIGH RETURN shifted to the inside of HAPPEE GIFT to improve after being disappointed for running to the outside of that horse. When questioned, Apprentice M L Yeung (TOUT VA BIEN) stated that as it was anticipated the race would be run at a quick tempo, he was instructed that if the horse began well, to obtain a forward position, however, if the horse was not fast to begin, to obtain a position with cover. He said TOUT VA BIEN began only fairly, therefore he elected to, rather than getting into a speed battle and possibly caught wide on the track, come back and obtain a position with cover in about midfield. D Whyte (TREASURABLE) reported that he was obliged to niggle at the horse in an attempt to have it travel in the race. He said the horse got its head up on a number of occasions throughout the race and, despite his riding it along in the Straight, did not finish the race off as expected. A veterinary inspection of NAMJONG HUNTER and TREASURABLE after the race did not show any significant findings. MY WHISKY and HAPPEE GIFT were sent for sampling.