26/03/2017  Shatin  Race 2

DASHING DART began only fairly. ASHKIYR and AMRITSARIA bumped at the start. ARGENTUM began awkwardly and shortly after the start stumbled after bumping GENERAL O’REILLY which began only fairly. ARGENTUM was then taken out by AMRITSARIA which shifted out despite the efforts of its rider, resulting in GENERAL O’REILLY being crowded for room inside PREMIUM CHAMPION. From wide barriers, GOOD CHOICE AHEAD and RUBY COAST were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. After the 700 Metres, JOLLY AMBER got its head on the side and lay out. In the early part of the Straight, RUBY COAST was awkwardly placed close to the heels of HOLMES LEGEND which was giving ground. After the 200 Metres, CHIU CHOW KID was held up when disappointed for running between DASHING DART and ASHKIYR. CHIU CHOW KID was then shifted to the outside of DASHING DART passing the 150 Metres to obtain clear running. Near the 50 Metres, GOOD CHOICE AHEAD was shifted out away from the heels of CHIU CHOW KID. Passing the 50 Metres, ASHKIYR raced tight outside FINE WITH ME. For the majority of the race, HOLMES LEGEND raced wide and without cover and gave ground in the Straight. After the race, B Prebble stated that PREMIUM CHAMPION raced “flat” and may not have backed up from its run at Happy Valley last Wednesday night. A veterinary inspection of PREMIUM CHAMPION immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. Also after the race, Z Purton was not able to offer any explanation for the disappointing performance of RUBY COAST. A veterinary inspection of RUBY COAST immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. ARGENTUM, DASHING DART and GOLDEN ACHIEVER were sent for sampling.