16/01/2010  Shatin  Race 5

Prior to the declaration of weighed-in, the Stewards heard a submission from C K Tong, the rider of MATSUKAZE, that that horse be declared a non-runner. The Stewards, after taking evidence from C K Tong and after viewing the videos, found that MATSUKAZE, which was being assisted in the barriers, reared as the start was effected and consequently lost ground. As the horse was not being restrained by the barrier attendant and that MATSUKAZE had caused its own problems, the Stewards ruled that MATSUKAZE be declared a runner. After being slow to begin, MATSUKAZE was ridden along to obtain a forward position and then in the Straight gave ground. As the start was effected, PACKING FRIEND, which was leaning against the inside of its barrier stall, reared and consequently lost ground. With the intention of being ridden quietly from a draw towards the outside, PROSPEROUS was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Shortly after the start, FIONN’S DRAGON raced in restricted room between PRIVATE ROAD and NAMJONG HUNTER which shifted in. Rounding the Home Turn, WATCH FIRST was steadied when crowded for room between SUCCESSFUL ERA and PACKING FRIEND (H W Lai) which shifted out to improve its position. H W Lai was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground in future. Near the 300 Metres, FIONN’S DRAGON was steadied and shifted to the outside of NAMJONG HUNTER when disappointed for running between that horse and PRIVATE ROAD (J Lloyd) which shifted out slightly. J Lloyd was advised to exercise care. For some distance approaching the 100 Metres, PACKING FRIEND was steadied away from the heels of FIONN’S DRAGON (B Prebble) which shifted out. B Prebble was reprimanded and advised to keep his mounts on a straight course wherever possible. When questioned, A Gryder (MARK UP) said that he was instructed to obtain cover on the horse and it was hoped that this would be in a midfield position. He said shortly after the start he shifted his mount across behind PACKING FRIEND to obtain cover as instructed, however, this was further back in the field than had been anticipated. He said in the Straight he placed MARK UP under pressure and the horse responded fairly to his riding. He added that although he used the whip on a number of occasions, he felt that MARK UP was giving of its best and therefore he did not feel further use of the whip would be beneficial to the horse. Throughout the race, GREAT UNITY travelled wide and without cover. A veterinary inspection of MATSUKAZE, PACKING FRIEND and MARK UP after the race did not show any significant findings. EJIMERIC TE SPECSO and FIONN’S DRAGON were sent for sampling.