06/06/2010  Shatin  Race 9

Whilst in the Parade Ring, it was noted that HORSE SENSE had lost its left front plate. This plate was refitted. HORSE SENSE was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. SHAM SHUI PO began awkwardly. From wide barriers, MOON CHASER and HORSESHOE FORTUNE were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Passing the 1200 Metres, YOUNG SUPREME commenced to prove difficult to settle and got its head up when being checked away from the heels of MANDARIN. PENGLAI XIANZI travelled wide and without cover until near the 600 Metres. Passing the 200 Metres, SOARING DRAGON was steadied away from the heels of PENGLAI XIANZI when held up for clear running behind that horse. The Stewards overruled a protest/objection lodged by Mr J Moore, the trainer of SOARING DRAGON, placed 2nd, against PENGLAI XIANZI (M Chadwick) being declared the winner alleging interference over the final 100 Metres. The Stewards considered that whilst PENGLAI XIANZI had shifted in over the final 100 Metres, thus causing minor inconvenience to SOARING DRAGON, they did not consider that had this minor inconvenience not occurred that SOARING DRAGON would have beaten PENGLAI XIANZI. Accordingly, the Judge’s placings as semaphored were confirmed. Close to the finishing line, AMBITIOUS TREASURE was steadied away from the heels of PENGLAI XIANZI which shifted out. HORSESHOE FORTUNE was not able to obtain clear running at any stage in the Straight and consequently was not properly tested. When questioned regarding the performance of MANDARIN, M Du Plessis stated that although he had to make some use of the horse in the early stages to cross to the fence in the lead as instructed, MANDARIN then travelled well throughout the race. He said however when asked for an effort passing the 300 Metres, MANDARIN responded for a short distance, but then over the final 200 Metres was most disappointing in its failure to finish off the race. The Stewards will interview Trainer J Size regarding the performance of MANDARIN upon his return to Hong Kong. A veterinary inspection of MANDARIN after the race did not show any significant findings. MANDARIN, PENGLAI XIANZI and SOARING DRAGON were sent for sampling.