17/04/2011  Happy Valley  Race 10

ALMIGHTY WINDPOWER began awkwardly. From wide barriers, DALKAN and HO HO LIFE were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. After the 1000 Metres, HO WONGCHOY was left racing wide and without cover. Near the 250 Metres, BUTTERFIELD momentarily raced in restricted room between AMITYSHIP and WO AI NINN which was awkwardly placed close to the heels of PERFECT TEN which got its head on the side and shifted out. Near the 150 Metres, HO HO LIFE and BOUNCER bumped. Apprentice M L Yeung (AMITYSHIP) pleaded guilty to a breach of Rule 100(2) in that he failed to ride AMITYSHIP, 6th placegetter, out to the end of the race to the satisfaction of the Stewards. For this breach of the Rule, Apprentice Yeung was fined a sum of $20,000. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of HELENE WITTY, M Chadwick stated that HELENE WITTY travelled comfortably in the lead, however, came under pressure near the 500 Metres when HAPPY GUYS improved forward of HELENE WITTY. He said after this HELENE WITTY immediately came under pressure and then was most disappointing in its failure to respond to his riding in the Straight. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of PERFECT TEN, B Prebble stated that PERFECT TEN travelled only fairly in a position behind the leaders. He said however that when ALMIGHTY WINDPOWER improved its position around the field passing the 600 Metres, PERFECT TEN came off the bridle and despite being ridden along was most disappointing in its failure to finish off the race. He added that PERFECT TEN was up in grade in today’s race and this fact coupled with the track conditions may have accounted for the horse’s performance. A veterinary inspection of HELENE WITTY and PERFECT TEN after the race did not show any significant findings. HELENE WITTY, HAPPY GUYS and ALMIGHTY WINDPOWER were sent for sampling.