03/11/2013  Shatin  Race 11

After being loaded, CAPE CANAVERAL became fractious, reared and momentarily sat down. CAPE CANAVERAL was removed from the barriers and examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. WINNIE’S HORSE blundered badly at the start. KABAYAN was slow to begin. From the outside barrier, FREE JUDGEMENT was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Near the 1500 Metres, DEEP THINKER commenced to travel keenly and got its head up on a number of occasions when being steadied to allow SLICK BULLET to cross. At the same point, GALAXY PRANCER proved difficult to settle and got its head up on a number of occasions when awkwardly placed close to the heels of WHY NOT. After this, GALAXY PRANCER continued to prove difficult to settle for some distance. WHY NOT got its head on the side and hung out rounding the Home Turn and at the entrance to the Straight was checked when momentarily crowded for room inside CAPE CANAVERAL, which, when giving ground, shifted in despite the efforts of its rider. DEEP THINKER, which was following, was hampered in consequence. For the majority of the race, MR MEDICI travelled wide and without cover. The performance of CAPE CANAVERAL, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, CAPE CANAVERAL 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, M Chadwick stated that he had been instructed to take up a forward position on EAGLE POWER due to the horse’s light weight. He said it was felt that the principal chances in the race were carrying large weights and it would be to the advantage of EAGLE POWER if it was to be ridden in a forward position. Mr C W Chang, the trainer of EAGLE POWER, confirmed the instructions and the reasons for having the horse ridden in a more forward position today. SILVER GRECIAN and EAGLE POWER were sent for sampling.