23/11/2011  Happy Valley  Race 3

HOW WONDERFUL was slow to begin. JOHN DORY shifted in shortly after the start and bumped SPEEDY WARRIOR, causing both horses to become unbalanced. When being steadied in the early stages, BESPOKE MASTER proved difficult to settle and got its head up on a number of occasions. Near the 1200 Metres, SUISSE D’OR, which was proving difficult to settle when awkwardly placed close to the heels of REAL DRAGON, and COMPACT YARN bumped. Near the 250 Metres, REAL DRAGON, which was commencing to give ground, was tightened when crowded for room between COMPACT YARN and LUCKY CHEVALIER which shifted to the outside of GOLDEN BOY into clear running. When questioned, G Mossé stated that as is usual, he was instructed to obtain a forward position on REAL DRAGON. He said in the early stages he had to make some use of the horse, from barrier 11, to obtain a forward position as instructed. He said after passing the winning post on the first occasion he observed GOLDEN BOY being ridden along to hold a position inside REAL DRAGON and as he felt that that horse was being ridden along to maintain the lead, he elected to steady REAL DRAGON and sit off that horse. He said however that passing the 1200 Metres GOLDEN BOY was heavily restrained by its rider and as REAL DRAGON was travelling strongly, he elected to allow REAL DRAGON to improve its position rather than restrain the horse. He added as he did this GOLDEN BOY was again ridden along to maintain its position inside REAL DRAGON, however, as he had allowed his mount to improve its position near the 1000 Metres, REAL DRAGON then did not relax and consequently raced at a quicker tempo than he had hoped. He said he was aware of the tempo of the race, however, the circumstances resulted in him not being able to steady the speed on REAL DRAGON. G Mossé was advised that whilst his evidence had been supported by the video, nonetheless he should, wherever circumstances permit, ensure that he rides his mounts in such a manner so that they are able top finish off the race. A veterinary inspection of REAL DRAGON after the race did not show any significant findings. GREAT RENOWN and SUISSE D’OR were sent for sampling. <24/11/2011 Additional Veterinary Report> REAL DRAGON, which performed poorly, was examined by the Executive Manager, Regulatory Veterinary & International Liaison. He said at that time there were no significant findings. REAL DRAGON was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer A S Cruz this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in its left front leg. Before being allowed to race again, REAL DRAGON will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.