22/04/2009  Happy Valley  Race 1

SIMPLY THE BEST was withdrawn on raceday morning by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (lame right fore). Before being allowed to race again, SIMPLY THE BEST will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SUPER IDEAL was slow to begin. On jumping, DASHING FLAIR was bumped by GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY which shifted in. At the 1100 Metres, ENERGETIC BOY was steadied away from the heels of SUPER IDEAL which shifted out. For a considerable distance approaching and passing the 200 Metres, DRAGON BOY had difficulty obtaining clear running. Just prior to the winning post, FORTUNE WARRIOR was brushed by SUPER IDEAL which shifted in slightly. When questioned regarding the improved performance of the winner, SUPER IDEAL, Trainer A T Millard said in his opinion SUPER IDEAL had derived benefit from its last start 9 days ago when the horse was somewhat disappointing. He said on that occasion SUPER IDEAL was racing first up from a 9 week let-up and in his opinion the horse’s condition gave out in the run. He said whilst SUPER IDEAL had been disappointing at its two previous starts on the Happy Valley track, he did give the horse some chance in tonight’s race as in his opinion its track work had indicated an improved level of fitness. ENERGETIC BOY was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of ENERGETIC BOY after the race did not show any significant findings. JOYFUL YEARS, SUPER IDEAL and FORTUNE WARRIOR were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that DASHING FLAIR had bled from both nostrils.