27/01/2021  Happy Valley  Race 1

TIGER GLARE was slow to begin. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, VITAL SPRING failed to muster speed. Then after leaving the 1100 Metres, VITAL SPRING was steadied away from the heels of WELL DRAGON which shifted out slightly. WHO’S HORSE lost its right front plate at the 1000 Metres. Approaching the 800 Metres, GREAT HARVEST commenced to prove difficult to settle and was steadied away from the heels of FANTASTIC FABIO. FANTASTIC FABIO raced wide and without cover until approaching the 700 Metres at which stage GREAT HARVEST was left racing wide and without cover. On the Home Turn, WELL DRAGON was steadied when awkwardly placed behind WHO’S HORSE which came under pressure to maintain its position. After being inclined to lay in in the early part of the Straight, ALLOY STAR was shifted out in an endeavour to obtain clear running approaching the 200 Metres. After leaving the 200 Metres, ALLOY STAR was straightened in order to prevent causing interference to NOBLE MAN which was racing to its outside. After leaving the 150 Metres, NOBLE MAN, which was giving ground, was momentarily steadied due to GREAT HARVEST (A Badel) shifting in under pressure. A Badel was advised to ensure that he makes a greater effort to keep his mounts on a straight course. Over the final 100 Metres, ALLOY STAR, which was again inclined to lay in, was held up for a run between FANTASTIC FABIO and GREAT HARVEST and consequently was not able to be fully tested. After the race, A Hamelin was unable to offer any explanation for the disappointing performance of NOBLE MAN. He said the horse travelled comfortably behind the leaders, however, did not respond to his riding in the Straight and weakened. A veterinary inspection of NOBLE MAN immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. TIGERLAD and GREAT SON were sent for sampling.