01/07/2009  Shatin  Race 4

SUPREME DRAGON and LUCKY DRAGON were difficult to load. Before being allowed to race again, SUPREME DRAGON and LUCKY DRAGON will both have to perform satisfactorily in a stalls test. Prior to the start being effected, MAGNANIMOUS became fractious and got its head up and over the front gates of its stall. This was rectified before the start was effected. MAGNANIMOUS was slow to begin. On jumping, ROYAL DOMAIN was taken back. At the 800 Metres, LUCKY DRAGON was checked to avoid the heels of WINNER which was reluctant to hold its position when racing tight inside TELECOM GOGO. Also at the 800 Metres, SUPREME DRAGON, which was travelling keenly, was steadied away from the heels of TELECOM GOGO. At the 300 Metres, LUCKY DRAGON was steadied away from the heels of SUPREME DRAGON which was drifting out. When questioned, K T Yeung (SPARKLING) said the horse performed well at its most recent start when travelling in a rearward position from an inside barrier. He said on that occasion he had been instructed to ride SPARKLING in midfield, however, the circumstances of the race meant the horse travelled further back than was intended. He said today from the outside barrier he was again asked to ride SPARKLING in a midfield position with cover if possible. He said SPARKLING began well and he initially rode the horse along to ensure he did not get too far back. He said passing the 1200 Metres when it became apparent to him that he was going to be left racing wide on the track without cover, he continued to ride SPARKLING along to cross REGENCY KINGDOM which was racing to his inside. He said near the 1100 Metres he shifted across to be in a three wide position without cover and then steadied his mount to allow it to travel comfortably. He said in the Straight SPARKLING failed to finish the race off. SPARKLING and ROYAL DOMAIN were sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of SPARKLING and ROYAL DOMAIN after the race did not show any significant findings. SAPELLI, TELECOM GOGO and HIGH INTELLIGENT were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that SOLAR UP had sustained a mild abrasion to its right front leg.