22/06/2011  Happy Valley  Race 8

MAJESTIC HEART began very awkwardly and lost ground at the start. From the outside barrier, SHIFACHI TRADITION was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. EXCEPTIONAL ART was held up for clear running rounding the Home Turn. Near the 250 Metres, CROWN WITNESS became unbalanced when brushed by JIMSON THE BEST. Passing the 200 Metres, FLORA DANICA was steadied away from the heels of CROWN WITNESS which at this time shifted out away from the heels of JIMSON THE BEST. Just prior to the winning post, Y T Cheng (JIMSON THE BEST) dropped his whip. Throughout the race, OCEAN PRINCE travelled wide and without cover. Whilst the Stewards were satisfied that the riding of J Lloyd (FLORA DANICA), 6th placegetter, over the concluding stages did not affect the horse’s finishing position, he was nonetheless reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out at least hands and heels to the end of the race where circumstances permit. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SLEEP WELL, K C Leung stated that his mount travelled well during the race until approaching the Home Turn. He said at this time he attempted to improve into a tight run between PERFECT SPRINT and OCEAN PRINCE which got its head on the side and shifted out. He said however that for a short distance rounding the Home Turn SLEEP WELL then raced in restricted room between PERFECT SPRINT and OCEAN PRINCE which shifted back in. He said after this SLEEP WELL came off the bridle and, despite being ridden out, failed to finish off the race. The Stewards will interview Jockey B Prebble (PERFECT SPRINT) in respect of a report by the Veterinary Officer that that horse was found to have weal marks on its right flank after the race. Jockey Prebble will be interviewed prior to the Sha Tin racemeeting on Sunday, 26 June 2011. A veterinary inspection of CROWN WITNESS and SLEEP WELL after the race did not show any significant findings. EURO SWIFTLY and EXCEPTIONAL ART were sent for sampling.