31/03/2010  Happy Valley  Race 7

GREAT LUCK was slow to begin. Shortly after the start, VILASOL was crowded for room between ARION OF CHIU TON and STOLEN THUNDER which shifted in. A short distance later, VILASOL, which was being ridden along in an endeavour to take up a forward position, was bumped by STOLEN THUNDER which shifted in slightly. For the majority of the race, STOLEN THUNDER travelled wide and without cover and in the Straight gave ground. The performance of STOLEN THUNDER, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, STOLEN THUNDER will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. When questioned, Trainer J Moore stated that due to the anticipated slow pace of tonight’s race, he instructed Apprentice K C Leung, the rider of KENOBE, which was having only its 3rd race start for his stable, to obtain a position behind the lead if possible. He said at its most recent start he formed the opinion that KENOBE when ridden back in the field from barrier 12 over 1650 Metres did not race genuinely and consequently was not as competitive as he would have hoped. He said since its most recent start KENOBE had, in his opinion, improved and accordingly he gave the horse a good each way chance tonight. A veterinary inspection of WARM EMBRACES after the race did not show any significant findings. KENOBE and BOUNCER were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that GREAT LUCK had bled from both nostrils.