24/03/2010  Shatin  Race 3

MATSUKAZE was withdrawn on 22.3.10 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (cut right hind hock). Before being allowed to race again, MATSUKAZE will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Whilst in the Parade Ring, it was noted that SUPREME TYCOON had blood in its mouth. On arrival at the Start, SUPREME TYCOON was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. RAISING SUN and ALWAYS AHEAD were slow to begin. FANTASTIC DANCER began awkwardly. Near the 700 Metres, GOLDEN BALL was awkwardly placed close to the heels of SLEEP WELL. OLYMPICSHIP, which was following, was hampered in consequence and shifted in, resulting in ROCKALOT also being hampered. Shortly after straightening, BEST NOODLE was crowded for room when improving into a tight run between WIN MORE and SLEEP WELL. After the race, Z Purton (SLEEP WELL) reported that his mount made an abnormal breathing noise over the final 200 Metres. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of OLYMPICSHIP, B Prebble sated that as far out as the 900 Metres he was obliged to ride OLYMPICSHIP along in an endeavour to have it travel on the bit. He said at no stage of tonight’s race did OLYMPICSHIP travel comfortably and, in his opinion, the horse raced “flat”. A veterinary inspection of OLYMPICSHIP after the race revealed the horse to be displaying blood at the right nostril due to a mild trauma to the right nasal passage. An endoscopic examination of OLYMPICSHIP’s trachea revealed there to be no blood and accordingly the horse was not deemed to have bled. A veterinary inspection of WIN MORE and GOLDEN BALL after the race did not show any significant findings. OLYMPICSHIP, UPSIDE OF ANGER and BEST NOODLE were sent for sampling.