11/11/2009  Happy Valley  Race 8

From the outside barrier, CLEMENT ELITE was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. SUPER SATIN began awkwardly and lost ground. SOVIET PEARL was slow to begin. Passing the winning post on the first occasion, SOVIET PEARL commenced to race fiercely and was severely checked away from the heels of VILASOL. When being checked, SOVIET PEARL shifted in and bumped FULL PACK. A short distance later, SOVIET PEARL became badly unbalanced when crowded for room between STRIKING MASCOT and FULL PACK which got its head on the side and was reluctant to maintain its position inside VILASOL. In the early stages, OCEAN PRINCE was left racing wide and without cover and passing the 1200 Metres was allowed to stride forward to obtain a position close to the fence. After the 700 Metres, ISTIDE was left racing wide and without cover. Near the 500 Metres, SOVIET PEARL was checked away from the heels of VILASOL. Shortly after entering the Straight, STRIKING MASCOT was severely checked when crowded for room between MINGS’ HERO (B Prebble) which got its head on the side and shifted in and SOVIET PEARL (Apprentice K C Leung) which shifted out. Both B Prebble and Apprentice Leung were reprimanded and advised that they should, in similar circumstances, make every endeavour to keep their mounts on a straight course. After this, MINGS’ HERO continued to get its head on the side and was inclined to hang in. In the Straight, SUPER GENERAL hung in. SUPER SATIN and BULLISH WIN were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that VILASOL had lost its right hind plate.