23/03/2011  Shatin  Race 4

At declaration time, O Doleuze was declared as the rider of both MACHO EXPRESSO and SUISSE D’OR. It was established that O Doleuze had a firm commitment to ride SUISSE D’OR. As such, the Stewards permitted B Doyle to be substituted as the rider of MACHO EXPRESSO. For this declaration error, Trainer D J Hall was fined $2,000. From the outside barrier, SUISSE D’OR was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Throughout the race, GREAT HERO travelled wide and without cover and passing the 1400 Metres got its head up on a number of occasions when proving difficult to settle. Shortly after entering into the Straight, BUCCANEER was checked when attempting a run to the inside of SOLAR BOY where there was insufficient room after being badly held up for clear running behind that horse. After this, BUCCANEER continued to be held up for clear running until near the 150 Metres. After the 200 Metres, DAILY DOUBLE got its head on the side and hung in. Near the 150 Metres, MORE LUCKY was severely checked when disappointed for running inside SUPER CAGA which was taken in by MACHO EXPRESSO which shifted in. G Mossé (BEAUTY SUCCESS) was severely reprimanded for failing to ride his mount out to the end of the race as required by the Rules of Racing. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SOLAR BOY, Apprentice T H So stated that SOLAR BOY was obliged to race outside of the leader, SUPER CAGA. He said when successful in the past SOLAR BOY had been able to obtain an uncontested lead. He said SOLAR BOY came off the bridle near the 600 Metres and then was most disappointing in its failure to respond to his riding in the Straight. A veterinary inspection of GREAT HERO and SOLAR BOY after the race did not show any significant findings. BUCCANEER, BEAUTY SUCCESS and SUISSE D’OR were sent for sampling. <24/3/2011 Additional Veterinary Report>GREAT HERO, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said at that time there were no significant findings. GREAT HERO was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer D Cruz this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in the left front leg. Before being allowed to race again, GREAT HERO will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.