15/01/2012  Shatin  Race 4

FULL SPIRIT was checked when crowded for room at the start between CLASSIC BOY and MAN OF THE MATCH which was taken out by HAPPY CHA CHA which shifted out after beginning awkwardly. Making the turn near the 800 Metres, MAN OF THE MATCH brushed the rail and became unbalanced. At the 200 Metres, HAPPY CHA CHA was shifted in away from the heels of REDOUTE STAR. Throughout the race, REDOUTE STAR travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of CONNOISSEUR’S PICK, Y T Cheng stated that after being slow to begin, CONNOISSEUR’S PICK travelled only fairly. He said at the 800 Metres he rode his mount along in an attempt to improve its position around VICTORY IDE SAY. He said that despite being ridden along, CONNOISSEUR’S PICK was not able to improve to that horse’s outside and after this continued to travel only fairly. He added that he shifted CONNOISSEUR’S PICK to the outside of runners in the early part of the Straight to have it close off the race, however, CONNOISSEUR’S PICK finished off only one-paced and, in his opinion, was disappointing. A veterinary inspection of CONNOISSEUR’S PICK after the race did not show any significant findings. NICHOLSON and COMPACT YARN were sent for sampling.