31/05/2009  Shatin  Race 9

DR UNION bounded in the air at the start, then lost further ground when checked to avoid the heels of WHISKY POWER which shifted in after being bumped by LUCKYME which in turn was bumped by BELONG TO CASA which on jumping shifted in. GOOD STRIKE and BEAUTY FLASH were slow into stride. After the 300 Metres, MANY GAINS, which was giving ground, was steadied when awkwardly placed between GOLDEN TREASURE and GLENEALY ELITE which got its head on the side and shifted in slightly. Approaching the 200 Metres, GOOD STRIKE was shifted in away from the heels of GOLDEN TREASURE which was giving ground. Approaching the winning post, GLENEALY ELITE, which continued to race with its head on the side and was shifting in slightly, was bumped by HOLEY DOLLAR which shifted out. Throughout the race, EASY AHEAD travelled wide and without cover. The performance of DR UNION, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, DR UNION will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. M Du Plessis (GOOD STRIKE) explained during the preliminary his mount appeared agitated. He said in the run GOOD STRIKE travelled only fairly and appeared a little awkward in its action. He said when he had ridden GOOD STRIKE in track work leading into today’s race, the horse appeared similar in its action. He said in the Home Straight when placed under pressure GOOD STRIKE when struck with the whip got its head on the side and was inclined to shift out. He said because of this he was placed at a disadvantage in riding his mount out. GOOD STRIKE was sent for an official veterinary inspection and sampling. MANY GAINS was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of GOOD STRIKE and MANY GAINS after the race did not show any significant findings. BEAUTY FLASH and GLENEALY ELITE were sent for sampling.