01/11/2009  Happy Valley  Race 1

MY SMARTIE was slow to begin. SUPER IDEAL began awkwardly. From the outside barrier, DAILY DOUBLE was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Approaching the winning post on the first occasion, SUPER IDEAL was steadied when crowded for room between SMART CODE and FASTER FASTER which was taken in by RAINBOW STAR which itself shifted in when being steadied away from the heels of FORTUNE GALLOP (C K Tong) which shifted in when not sufficiently clear. C K Tong was reprimanded and told to ensure he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground in future. Passing the winning post on the first occasion, FASTER FASTER was steadied when crowded for room between SMART CODE and RAINBOW STAR which, after initially being taken in slightly by ESPACE D’OR (Apprentice M Chadwick), then shifted in away from that horse. Apprentice Chadwick was advised to ensure he leaves sufficient racing room for his fellow riders in similar circumstances. For some distance approaching and passing the 1200 Metres, CENTURY MOLLY was steadied away from the heels of AIPODER IMAGE. Rounding the Home Turn, SUPER IDEAL raced tight inside SMART CODE which itself raced tight inside ESPACE D’OR. Passing the 200 Metres, SMART CODE was checked away from the heels of FORTUNE GALLOP when disappointed for running inside that horse. SMART CODE was then held up for clear running and consequently was not properly tested for the remainder of the event. Throughout the race, ESPACE D’OR travelled wide and without cover. After the race, Z Purton (RAINBOW STAR) reported that he noted the saddle had shifted back during the running of the race. A veterinary inspection of MY SMARTIE after the race including an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. The performance of MY SMARTIE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being permitted to race again, MY SMARTIE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. AIPODER IMAGE, CENTURY MOLLY and DAILY DOUBLE were sent for sampling.