28/03/2009  Shatin  Race 2

DANEPRINT began awkwardly and got its head up. On jumping, from a wide barrier, CLASSIC KING was taken back. On straightening, DANEPRINT, which was having difficulty obtaining clear running, was steadied and shifted to the inside of FOREVER RICHES to go forward. Near the 100 Metres, ENERGETIC BOY, which was closing the race off strongly, was steadied when disappointed for running between ALL FOR ONE and NATURAL ECHO which shifted out. After the 100 Metres, FOREVER RICHES was steadied away from the heels of LITTLE BIG BOY after being bumped by DANEPRINT which got its head on the side and shifted out. Also after the 100 Metres, CHINSOLA, which was closing the race off and improving into a narrow run on the inside of NEW ASIA FORWARD, was momentarily tightened for room when NEW ASIA FORWARD was carried in by PURE ALPHA which got its head on the side and hung in. For the major part of the race, EMBRACES travelled wide and without cover. The performance of COME HO CHOI, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, COME HO CHOI will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. When questioned regarding the poor performance of NEW ASIA FORWARD which was having its first start over 1800 Metres today, E Saint-Martin explained the intention had been to ride the horse with cover behind the lead if possible. He said he went forward in the initial stages and then when other runners did not cross he was left racing in the lead. He said NEW ASIA FORWARD travelled comfortably in the run, however, on straightening changed legs and commenced to hang out.  He said NEW ASIA FORWARD kept on until the 200 Metres, however, over the concluding stages gave ground. He said in his opinion NEW ASIA FORWARD was not suited leading in today’s race and the horse did not appear to run out the 1800 Metres at its first time of asking. NEW ASIA FORWARD was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, NEW ASIA FORWARD was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said there were no significant findings other than the horse had lost its right hind plate. ENERGETIC BOY, LITTLE BIG BOY and ALL FOR ONE were sent for sampling.