26/05/2013  Shatin  Race 3

As the start was effected, KHAYA lifted its front feet off the ground and consequently was slow to begin. From a wide barrier, POWER BLITZ was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. After the 1200 Metres, KHAYA commenced to over-race and had to be checked away from the heels of MR GNOCCHI for some distance. Rounding the Home Turn, SUMMER DASH was shifted across the heels of NATURAL CHAMPION to obtain clear running. At the entrance to the Straight, SAMMY’S FALCON shifted out and bumped KHAYA. The performance of CAVALE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, CAVALE 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 his riding of KHAYA, 4th placegetter, over the concluding stages, R Fourie stated that he was riding his mount out with the whip in the left hand until close to the finishing line when MR GNOCCHI shifted out under pressure in front of him. He said as he was awkwardly placed close to the heels of MR GNOCCHI over the concluding stages, he was not able to ride his mount out all the way to the line. He said he did give consideration to shifting to the inside of MR GNOCCHI, however, he would not be able to do this and recommence riding KHAYA out due to the proximity of the finish of the race. Having in mind the neck margin between KHAYA and AFFECTION, which finished 3rd, and the fact that MR GNOCCHI did shift out under pressure, R Fourie was advised that no further action would be taken, however, he must position his mounts in such a manner so as to enable him to ride them out to the end of the race where circumstances permit. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that CAVALE had lost its right hind plate. MR GNOCCHI and SAFARI MAGIC were sent for sampling.