03/05/2009  Shatin  Race 9

AMNESTY was slow to begin. Approaching the turn at the 800 Metres, GOUF, which was proving difficult to settle, was checked to avoid the heels of ELITE SIXTY-SIX which steadied to allow GRAND STORE to cross. For some distance after this, GOUF continued to be awkwardly placed close to the heels of ELITE SIXTY-SIX. On straightening, NATIONAL GLORY was momentarily steadied when disappointed for running between SUPER FORTUNE and ELITE SIXTY-SIX. At the 200 Metres, RED RULER, which was closing the race off strongly, was steadied and shifted out away from the heels of GRAND STORE which was giving ground. At the 50 Metres, J Winks (HO HAPPY) dropped his whip. In the Straight, BROTHERS IN ARMS, which travelled wide and without cover, hung out badly, placing its rider, W C Marwing, at a considerable disadvantage in riding his mount out. Before being allowed to race again, BROTHERS IN ARMS will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial around a bend and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. C W Wong (RED RULER) explained he had been instructed to ride his mount in a position with cover if possible in midfield or slightly behind midfield. He said on jumping RED RULER lost ground when crowded for room between CALIFORNIA MOON and BRILLIANT ONE which shifted in. He said he then shifted RED RULER across to race on the rail at the rear of the field. He said as a consequence of the interference he received at the start RED RULER travelled further back than anticipated. BROTHERS IN ARMS and AMNESTY were sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of BROTHERS IN ARMS and AMNESTY after the race did not show any significant findings. CALIFORNIA MOON, ELITE SIXTY-SIX and NATIONAL GLORY were sent for sampling.