04/10/2009  Shatin  Race 5

Whilst in the saddling stalls, GREAT SHOW had its left hind plate refitted. GREAT SHOW was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said, in his opinion, it was suitable to race. When PENGLAI XIANZI was being led onto the track, the horse spun around, resulting in its rider, Apprentice M Chadwick, taking hold of the breast plate to maintain his balance. As a result of this, the breast plate fitted to PENGLAI XIANZI broke. The breast plate worn by the horse was replaced behind the barriers. POTPOURRI jumped awkwardly and lost a considerable amount of ground. Shortly after the start, GREAT SHOW was steadied when crowded for room between NAMJONG FIGHTERS and FORTUNE SPIRIT which shifted out slightly. Near the 700 Metres, GREAT SHOW became unbalanced after bumping with CHEEKY LAD. Throughout the race, NAMJONG FIGHTERS travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, Apprentice M Chadwick (PENGLAI XIANZI) said that, from the outside barrier, he was instructed to attempt to obtain cover wherever possible. He said he did not ride the horse along out of the barriers but rather allowed it to settle where comfortable in a position slightly in advance of midfield. He said however due to runners maintaining their positions on his inside, he was not able to obtain cover and was obliged to race wide and without cover throughout the race. A veterinary inspection of RAISING SUN after the race revealed that the horse was displaying an irregular heart rhythm. Before being allowed to race again, RAISING SUN will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. PENGLAI XIANZI, FLY ME TO THE MOON and HIGH INTELLIGENT were sent for sampling.