05/02/2012  Shatin  Race 9

LOVING STAR was checked and SHIFACHI TRADITION crowded for room at the start between JIMSON THE BEST and PEPPERMINT which got its head on the side and shifted out. From the outside barrier, EASTERN EMPIRE was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Approaching the 200 Metres, BLESSING, which had been held up, was steadied when disappointed for running between NICE FOLKS and SHIFACHI TRADITION. After this, BLESSING was not able to obtain clear running until near the 100 Metres. After the 200 Metres, JIMSON THE BEST raced in restricted room between FLYING UNICORN and YUE LU TREASURE. Over the concluding stages, JIMSON THE BEST was awkwardly placed close to the heels of FLYING UNICORN. When questioned, D Whyte stated that he had been instructed to lead on DR SUPER as it was the opinion of the horse’s trainer that it races best when able to dictate terms. He said he had to make some use of DR SUPER to cross the eventual winner, FLYING UNICORN after the 1200 Metres but after obtaining the lead he was able to steady the tempo and dictate the terms of the race thereafter. He said when placed under pressure in the early part of the Straight DR SUPER initially responded well to his riding, however, came under pressure passing the 300 Metres. He said after the 200 Metres he heard DR SUPER make an abnormal respiratory noise which worsened considerably passing the winning post. He added when he had ridden DR SUPER in the past, the horse had not made a similar breathing noise. A veterinary inspection of DR SUPER after the race including an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, DR SUPER will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. DR SUPER, FLYING UNICORN and LOVING STAR were sent for sampling.