17/12/2011  Shatin  Race 9

After being loaded, VICTORY MASCOT became fractious and then when the start was effected was slow to begin. Before being allowed to race again, VICTORY MASCOT will be required to perform satisfactorily in a stalls test. From a wide barrier, WRATH OF FIRE was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Near the 1700 Metres, EASTERN EMPIRE was steadied away from the heels of SUNNY MORE (D Beadman) which shifted in when not quite clear. D Beadman was advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground in future. Prior to the 400 Metres, BURGUNDY MAC was steadied when attempting a run between FUN HEROES and CASA JUNIOR where there was insufficient room. Passing the 300 Metres, SUPER BOBO was bumped by VICTORY MASCOT which was in turn taken out by CASA JUNIOR. Throughout the race, GLORY OF INDIA travelled wide and without cover and in the Straight gave ground. When questioned, Y T Cheng stated that he had been instructed to ride ABSOLUTE FANTASY in 4th or 5th position with cover if possible. He said in the early stages he was left racing wide and it soon became apparent to him that he would not be able to obtain cover in the position as instructed, therefore he allowed his mount to continue forward so as to obtain a position closer to the fence. He said as he had not been instructed to lead, he was reluctant to continue to ride ABSOLUTE FANTASY along to clear SUNNY MORE to its inside, but rather he continued to allow ABSOLUTE FANTASY to race in a position one horse off the fence. He added that he had hoped that SUNNY MORE to its inside or GLORY OF INDIA to its outside would continue forward which may allow ABSOLUTE FANTASY the opportunity to obtain cover. A veterinary inspection of GLORY OF INDIA after the race did not show any significant findings other than the horse had sustained a small cut to the outside of the left hind heel. SUNNY MORE, WRATH OF FIRE and BURGUNDY MAC were sent for sampling.