03/05/2009  Shatin  Race 3

On jumping, SPEEDY was bumped by VICTORY TREASURE. After this, SPEEDY was taken across behind runners. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, SAFETY FIRST failed to muster speed and at the 1000 Metres was left racing wide and without cover. Making the turn at the 700 Metres, VICTORY TREASURE was tightened for room inside NEEDLES AND THREAD which was hanging in. From on straightening until the 250 Metres, VICTORY TREASURE was held up and unable to obtain clear running. For the major part of the race, THUNDER DANCING hung out and in the early stages travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the poor performance of last start winner, STILTON, O Doleuze said his mount became very fractious in the barriers today. He said STILTON did not travel at any stage of the race in the manner in which it had at its most recent start. He said after the 600 Metres he commenced to endeavour to improve his position, but STILTON did not respond to his riding as it has in the past. He said in his opinion the barrier behaviour of STILTON today might explain the horse’s performance. STILTON was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of STILTON after the race did not show any significant findings. In the circumstances, the performance of STILTON was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, STILTON will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. When questioned regarding the improved performance of RICH DRAGON, Trainer C Fownes said at the horse’s most recent start when it was ridden by a less experienced rider from an awkward barrier, the circumstances of the race did not suit the horse. He said too much use was made of RICH DRAGON in the early and middle stages and consequently the horse gave ground in the Straight. He said from the inside barrier today RICH DRAGON was able to enjoy a soft run in a prominent position. FORTUNE HAVEN, RICH DRAGON and NEEDLES AND THREAD were sent for sampling.