17/12/2016  Shatin  Race 2

After being loaded into the barriers, EMPIRE OF MONGOLIA became fractious, reared and got its head into the overhead barrier structure. EMPIRE OF MONGOLIA then momentarily sat down. EMPIRE OF MONGOLIA was removed from the barrier stalls and examined by the Veterinary Officer who said the horse had blood tinged discharge at its left nostril and accordingly was not suitable to race. Acting on this advice, EMPIRE OF MONGOLIA was withdrawn by order of the Stewards. Before being allowed to race again, EMPIRE OF MONGOLIA will be required to perform satisfactorily in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. As the start was effected, ACE KING lifted its front feet off the ground and consequently was slow to begin. HIGH VOLATILITY shifted in on jumping and bumped ENREACHING. INDIGENOUS STAR was slow to begin and shortly after the start was steadied away from the heels of HEALTHY LUCK which shifted in. Near the 950 Metres, ART OF SUCCESS got its head on the side and shifted out away from PEACE COMBINATION. Approaching the 900 Metres, HAR HAR CHARMING was steadied when crowded for room between HURRICANE KID and DASHING POWER which shifted out away from PEACE COMBINATION. For the majority of the race, ART OF SUCCESS raced with its head on the side and lay out. The performance of FURLONG DRAGON, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, FURLONG DRAGON will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of ACE KING, FURLONG DRAGON and ART OF SUCCESS immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. ACE KING, HEALTHY LUCK and PEACE COMBINATION were sent for sampling.