17/10/2009  Shatin  Race 10

Whilst in the saddling stalls, PRIME SCORE lost its right front plate and was refitted. The horse was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said, in his opinion, it was suitable to race. As the start was effected, SWIFT STRIKE stood flat-footed and then took no part in the race. As SWIFT STRIKE has previously been barred for failing to jump, Mr A T Millard, trainer of the horse, was advised that the horse will be required to perform satisfactorily in a series of consecutive official barrier trials before being allowed to race again. Mr Millard was also advised that should SWIFT STRIKE re-offend at any time in the future, consideration will be given to recommending that the horse be compulsorily retired. Near the 1100 Metres, ROCK’N TYPHOON was checked when crowded for room inside PRIME SCORE which itself was taken in by FULL OF JOY which shifted in further of its own accord after being directed inwards slightly by BEAUTY FLASH which was steadied when momentarily taken in by ULTRA FANTASY (J Winks). RIVER JORDAN, which was following, was hampered in consequence. Having in mind of the circumstances relative to this incident, the Stewards believed it was appropriate that J Winks be reprimanded and advised to ensure he is sufficiently clear prior to shifting ground in future. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of UNIQUE JEWELLERY, D Whyte stated that the intention had been to race in a position behind midfield. He said however with the visor off today, UNIQUE JEWELLERY did not show enough early pace to obtain this position which resulted in the horse racing further back than had been intended. He said passing the 800 Metres he considered shifting to the outside of RIVER JORDAN to improve his position, however, that horse shifted out and rather be taken wider, he elected to shift back in and followed that horse, particularly as his mount was carrying 133 lbs today. He said when shifted to the outside of runners in the Straight, UNIQUE JEWELLERY finished off the race only fairly. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of HORACE’S CHOICE, O Doleuze stated that the horse over-raced in the early and middle stages and for some distance approaching and passing the 700 Metres was checked away from the heels of FULL OF JOY. He said due to the manner in which HORACE’S CHOICE travelled in today’s race, the horse was then not able to finish off the race. The performance of HORACE’S CHOICE, a last start winner, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, HORACE’S CHOICE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of UNIQUE JEWELLERY and HORACE’S CHOICE after the race did not show any significant findings. BERIO and BEAUTY FLASH were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that ROCK’N TYPHOON was displaying an irregular heart rhythm. Before being permitted to race again, ROCK’N TYPHOON will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination.