11/01/2012  Happy Valley  Race 7

JACOBEE was slow to begin. From the outside barrier, SUPER SATIN was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Approaching the 1000 Metres, MILITARY MOVE shifted out when awkwardly placed close to the heels of HANDSOME ZULU, resulting in NOBLE CONQUEROR being hampered and taken wider. In this incident, MILITARY MOVE made contact with the hindquarters of PURE CHAMPION which became unbalanced. For some distance approaching the 500 Metres, MILITARY MOVE was awkwardly placed close to the heels of HANDSOME ZULU. Approaching the 400 Metres, JACOBEE was momentarily tightened for room inside MILITARY MOVE which shifted in when continuing to be awkwardly placed close to the heels of HANDSOME ZULU which itself was travelling close to the heels of SUPER PISTACHIO which was commencing to give ground. After the 200 Metres, HANDSOME ZULU was steadied when disappointed for running between FAMILISTS and MIGHTY HIGH. Near the 100 Metres, PACKING OK and PURE CHAMPION bumped. M Du Plessis was severely reprimanded for using the whip on RIDE WITH THE WIND when out of contention. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that RIDE WITH THE WIND had bled from both nostrils. When questioned, B Doyle stated that he had been instructed to lead on MIGHTY HIGH if possible. He said on jumping he slapped the horse down the shoulder with the whip in an endeavour to have it obtain a forward position, however, he was reluctant to ride his mount along in the early stages as he did not want it over-racing with its big weight tonight. He said when he observed SIGHT WINNER and SUPER PISTACHIO being ridden along in the early stages to obtain a forward position, he elected, rather than ride his mount along, to attempt to find a position with cover on MIGHTY HIGH so as to afford the horse the opportunity to finish off the race. He said however that he was not able to shift in to a position closer than three wide and after the 1300 Metres was left racing without cover. B Doyle was advised that his riding of MIGHTY HIGH in the early stages had come under notice and that, in the opinion of the Stewards, he should have made a more concerted effort to adhere to his instructions and attempt to lead on MIGHTY HIGH. B Doyle was also advised that wherever possible he should ride his mounts in such a manner so as to ensure that they are ridden in accordance with his instructions. PURE CHAMPION and PACKING OK were sent for sampling.