27/12/2009  Shatin  Race 4

SUPER SPIRIT, Standby Declared Starter, was withdrawn on 25.12.09 by order of the Stewards (stable transfer). TRULLI was slow to begin. GOLD WINNER stumbled at the start. From a barrier towards the outside, WELL NOTED was taken across behind runners in the early stages. Despite being ridden aggressively in the early stages, AMBITIOUS OWNER failed to muster speed. Making the first turn, BROTHERS IN ARMS hung out after being awkwardly placed close to the heels of CHINA HERO, resulting in GOLD WINNER being checked when taken out across the heels of GAUCHO. KING OF HEARTS, which was following, was inconvenienced. Passing the 200 Metres, J Victoire (WELL NOTED) dropped his whip. Apprentice K C Leung (RARE TREASURE) dropped his whip near the 150 Metres. As this was the 4th occasion on which the Stewards had spoken to Apprentice Leung regarding him dropping his whip in races and having in mind he was placed on notice after the most recent occasion of having dropped his whip that disciplinary action may be taken should he re-offend within a reasonable time, the Stewards believed it was appropriate to issue a fine of $5,000 against Apprentice Leung. In the Straight, BROTHERS IN ARMS hung out under pressure and proved difficult to ride. A veterinary inspection of HAPPY GO LUCKY after the race did not show any significant findings. KING OF HEARTS, TRULLI and CHINA HERO were sent for sampling. After the race, an endoscopic examination was conducted on AMBITIOUS OWNER at the request of Trainer A T Millard. The Veterinary Officer reported that this examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, AMBITIOUS OWNER will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.