04/10/2009  Shatin  Race 3

HORACE’S LEGEND, which was fractious in the barriers, got its front legs momentarily over the front gate partitions. MAJESTIC HEART began awkwardly, shifted out and bumped VICTORY TREASURE. Approaching the 800 Metres, LOCAL POWER became unbalanced when taken wider by PRINCE KALAMOUN (D Beadman) which shifted out. After this, LOCAL POWER and PRINCE KALAMOUN bumped on a number of occasions due to LOCAL POWER attempting to hold its ground. D Beadman was advised whilst the Stewards expect all riders to ride competitively throughout the race, his riding of PRINCE KALAMOUN at this stage of the race bordered on being too aggressive. He was therefore severely reprimanded and advised he must exercise due care when shifting ground in similar circumstances. REAL SPECIAL was held up for clear running in the early part of the Straight. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SPECIAL DRAGON, Apprentice M Chadwick stated that his mount was able to lead and travelled kindly until the entrance to the Straight at which time it came under pressure. He stated that SPECIAL DRAGON did not respond to his riding and was disappointing in the manner in which it weakened in the Straight. A veterinary inspection of SPECIAL DRAGON and PRINCE KALAMOUN after the race did not show any significant findings. ENDLESS LUCK and STOLEN THUNDER were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that REAL SPECIAL had lost its left front plate.