27/02/2011  Shatin  Race 3

Shortly after the start, KUNG HEI FAT CHOI was steadied away from the heels of FUN AND FAST which was taken out by WATCH FIRST which shifted out after being bumped by NOT QUITE PERFECT. Near the 1500 Metres, GREEN GLORY was steadied when racing in restricted room between WAIT FOR ME and KIMBERLEY which shifted in. In the early stages, FUN AND FAST travelled wide and without cover and passing the 1200 Metres was allowed to improve into a more forward position. However, FUN AND FAST continued to travel wide and without cover throughout the race. For some distance after the 1200 Metres, KIMBERLEY proved difficult to settle and was awkwardly placed close to the heels of runners in front. DANESOUTH had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight and near the 300 Metres was shifted out across the heels of NOT QUITE PERFECT to obtain clear running. Near the 150 Metres, GREEN GLORY raced in restricted room inside DIVINE KID. When questioned, D Whyte stated that rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight WAIT FOR ME quickened well and he felt passing the 300 Metres that the horse would be very competitive at the end of the race. He said however that passing the 200 Metres WAIT FOR ME shortened stride appreciably and whilst the horse did not feel lame, he became concerned that WAIT FOR ME had gone amiss. He said he continued to urge the horse along in the run to the line, however, WAIT FOR ME gave ground noticeably over the concluding stages. He added that when proceeding back to the unplaced saddling area, WAIT FOR ME trotted back short in its action. Mr C H Yip, the trainer of WAIT FOR ME, stated that it was noticeable that WAIT FOR ME gave ground over the last 200 Metres and this was of concern to him because it generally finishes off its race well and has been a most consistent horse in the past. A veterinary inspection of WAIT FOR ME after the race revealed that the horse had a continuous displacement of the soft palate. The performance of WAIT FOR ME was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, WAIT FOR ME will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. WAIT FOR ME, WATCH FIRST and DANESOUTH were sent for sampling.