25/09/2011  Shatin  Race 8

From a wide barrier, ELEGANCE KLAMMER was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. When being taken back from a wide barrier in the early stages, BONDI LAD was shifted in and bumped SMART TOUCH, resulting in both horses becoming unbalanced. From the outside barrier, despite being ridden along vigorously in the early stages, MY WHISKY failed to muster speed and then throughout the race travelled wide and without cover. When being steadied making the first turn near the 850 Metres, EXCEPTIONAL ART got its head up on a number of occasions and proved difficult to settle. Near the 700 Metres, BILLION GAINS got its head on the side and became awkwardly placed close to the heels of INTELLECTUALSTRIDE. After the 400 Metres, RED LUCKY STAR became unbalanced after being bumped by SURFER BOY (C W Wong) which shifted out to obtain clear running. C W Wong was severely reprimanded and advised to ensure that he exercises due care when shifting ground in future. Also passing the 400 Metres, MY WHISKY was bumped by SMART TOUCH which shifted to the outside of ELITE FORTUNE into clear running. EXCEPTIONAL ART and ELEGANCE KLAMMER, which were following, were steadied in consequence. Over the concluding stages, RED LUCKY STAR was taken wider by SURFER BOY which shifted out under pressure. C W Wong was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he makes every effort to keep his mounts on a straight course in future. Passing the 50 Metres, when being ridden out, KEEN WONGCHOY shifted out abruptly towards the outside fence. As this was the second occasion on which KEEN WONGCHOY had shifted ground abruptly over the concluding stages of a race, the Stewards ruled that prior to being permitted to race again, KEEN WONGCHOY will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial. Throughout the race, ELITE FORTUNE travelled wide and without cover. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that SMART TOUCH had lost its left front plate. REGENCY LUCK and KEEN WONGCHOY were sent for sampling.