20/09/2009  Shatin  Race 6

ROYAL FLUSH, which had been fractious in the barriers, reared in the gates and fell backwards. The Veterinary Officer reported the horse to have sustained an abrasion to the head and also to have sustained a cut to the mouth and accordingly was not suitable to race. Acting on this advice, the Stewards ordered the withdrawal of ROYAL FLUSH. Before being allowed to race again, ROYAL FLUSH will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Shortly after the start, HO HAPPY was steadied away from the heels of TEAM WORK which, after beginning awkwardly, shifted in after being bumped by LUCKY RED. HO HAPPY had difficulty obtaining clear running over the final 100 Metres. Inside the 100 Metres, BELONG TO CASA was momentarily awkwardly placed close to the heels of WINDICATOR RETURNS. Whilst the Stewards were satisfied the riding of Apprentice K W Leung (BELONG TO CASA), 7th placegetter, did not affect the horse’s finishing position, he was nonetheless told he is expected to ride his mount out to the end of the race wherever possible. A veterinary inspection of TEAM WORK after the race did not show any significant findings. SMART CURRENCY, LUCKY RED and WINDICATOR RETURNS were sent for sampling.