23/09/2009  Happy Valley  Race 1

Shortly after the start, FAST GO and ALIVE AND KICKING were crowded for room between OPTIC KING and DAILY DOUBLE, both of which shifted some ground. Passing the 800 Metres, ALIVE AND KICKING was steadied away from the heels of DAILY DOUBLE. Rounding the Home Turn, MAGIC PRACTITIONER shifted out abruptly and was checked away from the heels of BLUE SAINT when steadied away from the heels of GO STITCH which itself was awkwardly placed close to the heels of TAKE IT EASY. Approaching the 200 Metres, MAGIC PRACTITIONER was steadied and shifted out across the heels of BLUE SAINT which shifted in slightly. Near the 100 Metres, FAST GO was shifted out across the heels of NOT QUITE PERFECT to obtain clear running after being disappointed for running between that horse and OPTIC KING. Throughout the race, BLUE SAINT travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the poor performance of TAKE IT EASY, B Prebble stated that as far out as 600 Metres, the horse became unbalanced in its action. He said the further the race went, the more he became concerned with the action of the horse and it immediately commenced to give ground upon straightening. He said due to the manner the horse in which was travelling, he eased TAKE IT EASY down over the final 200 Metres. A veterinary inspection of TAKE IT EASY after the race did not show any significant findings. In the circumstances, the performance of TAKE IT EASY was considered unacceptable. Before being permitted to race again, TAKE IT EASY will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. NOT QUITE PERFECT and FAST GO were sent for sampling. <24/9/2009 Additional Veterinary Report> TAKE IT EASY, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said at that time there were no significant findings. TAKE IT EASY was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer C H Yip this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in its right hind leg. As previously advised, TAKE IT EASY will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination before being allowed to race again.