15/03/2009  Shatin  Race 2

SURE GOOD was withdrawn on 14.3.09 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (swollen both hind cannon) and was replaced by Standby Declared Starter QUALITY-QUALITY (M W Leung). Before being allowed to race again, SURE GOOD will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. CARE FREE MIDAS began awkwardly, shifted in and bumped the hindquarters of SUNRISE. THE RIFLE was slow to begin, then shortly afterwards lost further ground when crowded for room between AMNESTY and GOLD CITY, both of which shifted ground. In the early stages, GREEN SUPER was taken back. At the 1300 Metres, MASTER DREAMER, which had been ridden along to go forward from the outside barrier, when racing wide and without cover was steadied and taken back. Making the turn at the 800 Metres, GIANT BLIZZARD became unbalanced after shifting in and making contact with FAIRWOOD CROWN. On straightening, CARE FREE MIDAS was hampered and carried wider by GREEN SUPER which was crowded for room and checked away from the heels of QUALITY-QUALITY which shifted wider. M W Leung was told to exercise greater care. Also on straightening, GRAND GENERAL and GIANT BLIZZARD bumped. At the 350 Metres, after initially being shifted out, THE RIFLE was steadied away from the heels of KING OF FISH and shifted back in to obtain clear running. At the 150 Metres, SEVENS HEAVEN, which was giving ground, was steadied when awkwardly placed between KING OF FISH and FAIRWOOD CROWN. Throughout the race, GRAND GENERAL travelled wide and without cover. SEVENS HEAVEN was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, SEVENS HEAVEN was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, SEVENS HEAVEN will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SUNRISE and AMAZING FLYER were sent for sampling.