07/03/2021  Shatin  Race 7

STORM WARNINGS shifted in at the start and bumped CHANCHENG PRINCE. FALCON TURBO began only fairly. From the outside barriers, GENTLE BREEZE (Apprentice K H Chan) and IMA SINGLE MAN were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. After the race, Apprentice Chan reported that his saddle shifted to the right in the early stages, placing him at a disadvantage. Approaching the 1000 Metres, DIVINE REGULUS was steadied away from the heels of STORM WARNINGS (Apprentice C L Chau) which shifted in when not properly clear. Apprentice Chau was reprimanded and told to ensure that he provides sufficient clearance when shifting ground in similar circumstances. When DIVINE REGULUS was steadied, that horse shifted out and inconvenienced CHANCHENG PRINCE. Making the turn after the 900 Metres, TELECOM CHEETAH got its head on the side and lay out towards the heels of DIAMOND BRILLIANT. On straightening, CHICKEN DANCE and DIVINE REGULUS bumped. In the early part of the Straight, FALCON TURBO was shifted out a number of horses to obtain clear running. When questioned, A Hamelin stated that it was intended for DIVINE REGULUS to be ridden to clear runners to his inside and obtain a position close to the rail. He said in the early stages he allowed DIVINE REGULUS to improve its position, however, CHICKEN DANCE was being ridden along to his inside to maintain its position. He said because of this he believed that he would have had to make a lot of use of DIVINE REGULUS to be in a position to be able to clear that horse which may be difficult if the rider of that horse continued to maintain its position to the inside of DIVINE REGULUS. He said because of this DIVINE REGULUS was left racing wide and without cover approaching the 900 Metres. A Hamelin was advised that his explanation would be reported, however, he was told to ensure that, wherever circumstances permit, he must ride his mounts in such a manner so as to avoid covering unnecessary ground. A veterinary inspection of TORNADO TWIST, GENTLE BREEZE and CHICKEN DANCE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. JUNEAU PARK, CHANCHENG PRINCE and STORM WARNINGS were sent for sampling.