05/02/2011  Shatin  Race 1

On arrival at the barriers, the tongue tie worn by SPICY SHRIMP was replaced. MOCHI was slow to begin. For some distance approaching and passing the 1000 Metres, MOCHI proved difficult to settle when being checked away from the heels of AMBITIOUS OWNER. Near the 800 Metres, FAST INTENTIONS was steadied away from the heels of SUCCESSFUL ERA which at this time became unbalanced when racing tight between SPICY SHRIMP and DREAMS MAKER. Passing the 700 Metres, GLOBAL WIN got its head on the side and lay out. Near the 500 Metres, FAST INTENTIONS was awkwardly placed close to the heels of SUCCESSFUL ERA. At the entrance to the Straight, MOCHI shifted out and bumped FAST INTENTIONS. PREMIER HORSE, which was following, was checked in consequence. After this, MOCHI got its head on the side and hung out towards the heels of FORTUNE TOGETHER. A short distance later, MOCHI was checked when held up for clear running behind HEXAGON which was giving ground. After the race, C K Tong reported that the bit carried by HEXAGON twisted during the race and because of this proved difficult to settle. The performance of HEXAGON, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, HEXAGON will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Rounding the Home Turn, MEDIC CHAMPION was checked away from the heels of HIGH LUCK which at this time was being eased out of the race. A veterinary inspection of HIGH LUCK after the race revealed that the horse was lame in its right front leg. Before being allowed to race again, HIGH LUCK will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight, AMBITIOUS OWNER was checked when attempting a run to the inside of NOTUS where there was insufficient room. In the early part of the Straight, NOTUS was awkwardly placed inside the heels of GLOBAL WIN. Near the 300 Metres, FAST INTENTIONS was awkwardly placed between SUCCESSFUL ERA and FORTUNE TOGETHER which was shifted out to obtain clear running. Approaching the 100 Metres, Apprentice K C Leung (AMBITIOUS OWNER) dropped his left rein. Throughout the race, HINYUEN PALADIN travelled wide and without cover. A veterinary inspection of AMBITIOUS OWNER after the race did not show any significant findings. DREAMS MAKER and FORTUNE TOGETHER were sent for sampling.