21/11/2010  Shatin  Race 7

Whilst in the saddling stalls, it was noted that GOOD BA BA had shifted its right hind plate. This plate was refitted. GOOD BA BA was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. CARTHAGE was slow to begin and then throughout the race travelled wide and without cover. When being steadied to shift across behind runners shortly after the start, VIVA PATACA got its head up on a number of occasions. Approaching the 1400 Metres, VIVA PATACA was awkwardly placed close to the heels of SILVER GRECIAN which became unbalanced. VIVA PATACA was held up for clear running in the early part of the Straight. Approaching the 300 Metres, O Doleuze (GOOD BA BA) dropped his whip. Passing the 200 Metres, VIVA PATACA, which was shifting out to obtain clear running, was obliged to shift out away from the heels of CHATER WAY which at this time got its head on the side and shifted out. FELLOWSHIP, GOOD BA BA and SUNNY KING, which were positioned to the outside of VIVA PATACA, were hampered as a result of the shift outwards. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of FELLOWSHIP, Z Purton stated that the only possible explanation he could offer for his mount’s performance was that it was not suited by the slow tempo of the race in the early stages. He said the tempo of the race gradually improved from the 700 Metres which did not suit FELLOWSHIP which in the past had shown itself to be a horse which prefers to race off a good tempo. He said irrespective of this, FELLOWSHIP was still most disappointing in the manner in which it gave ground in the Straight. A veterinary inspection of FELLOWSHIP after the race did not show any significant findings. ABLE ONE and THUMBS UP were sent for sampling.