07/05/2011  Shatin  Race 5

DARK SECRET and HAPPY FOREVER were slow to begin. Passing the 900 Metres, CLASSIC FIGURE got its head up on a number of occasions when proving difficult to settle. For some distance approaching the 800 Metres, CLASSIC FIGURE was then awkwardly placed close to the heels of SPEARHEAD. Throughout the race, MY MEMORY travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, Apprentice K C Leung stated that he had been instructed to position HOT PEPPER in a midfield position with cover if possible. He said shortly after the start ALP’S GLORY, which was drawn to the inside of HOT PEPPER, was ridden along which gave him the impression that that horse would take up a forward position. He said therefore shortly after the start he elected to shift in behind ALP’S GLORY. He added however when he did this, ALP’S GLORY was steadied by its rider and as he had already committed to obtaining a position behind that horse, HOT PEPPER raced further back than had been intended. A veterinary inspection of TRAVEL KING after the race including an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, TRAVEL KING will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. HAPPY FOREVER and TOUT VA BIEN were sent for sampling.