09/04/2011  Shatin  Race 10

DIEGO was slow to begin. From wide barriers, IRON EAGLE and MILITARY MOVE were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. TURF EXPRESS had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight. Also in the early part of the Straight, MILITARY MOVE was shifted to the outside of runners to obtain clear running. Throughout the race, PURE CHAMPION travelled wide and without cover. The performance of TRES MAGNIFIQUE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, TRES MAGNIFIQUE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. When questioned, Apprentice M L Yeung (DRAGON FIGHTER) stated that with the step up in distance to 1600 Metres today, he had been instructed not to ride the horse along and ensure that it travelled comfortably. He said DRAGON FIGHTER knuckled over at the start and after this he elected to shifted in to obtain a position closer to the rail. He said DRAGON FIGHTER was left racing wide and after shifting across to race outside TRES MAGNIFIQUE, passing the 1000 Metres he elected not to continue forward on DRAGON FIGHTER as this would have been contrary to his instructions. He added that because of this DRAGON FIGHTER was left racing three wide and without cover throughout the race. When questioned, D Whyte (HOT SHOT) said that the middle stages of the race were only run at an average tempo. He said when the field quickened rounding the Home Turn, HOT SHOT was left somewhat flat-footed and in the Straight finished off the race only one-paced. A veterinary inspection of HOT SHOT and NORTH HILL after the race did not show any significant findings. DESTINED FOR GLORY and FAT CHOY OOHLALA were sent for sampling.