09/04/2012  Shatin  Race 4

When entering the turf track whilst proceeding to the All Weather Track, BLESSING WIN momentarily got its left front leg over the gate. On arrival at the Start, BLESSING WIN was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. GRACYTOM was crowded for room at the start between LUCKY BOY which shifted out and SPICY SHRIMP which shifted in after being bumped by TARREGA. After the 1000 Metres, O’HALO was awkwardly placed close to the heels of TARREGA. GRACYTOM was not able to obtain clear running until the concluding stages. Because of this, GRACYTOM was not able to be properly tested in the Straight. D Whyte (O’HALO) pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding [Rule 100(1)] in that over the concluding stages he permitted his mount to shift in when not clear of LUCKY BOY, causing that horse to be checked and lose the running to which it was rightfully entitled and in turn to be taken in onto OYSTER which was crowded for room. D Whyte was suspended from riding in races for a period to expire on Thursday, 19 April 2012 on which day he may resume race riding (2 Hong Kong racedays). This suspension is with immediate effect. In addition, D Whyte was fined $40,000 in lieu of a suspension for a period incorporating one further raceday. Throughout the race, TARREGA travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, Apprentice K C Ng (MING HOI GLORY) stated that he had been instructed to lead on the horse if possible. He said when the gates opened, MING HOI GLORY began very awkwardly which resulted in him becoming unbalanced in the saddle. He said because of this MING HOI GLORY lost ground and was obliged to race towards the rear of the field. He said throughout the race and particularly making the turns MING HOI GLORY hung out and was reluctant to stride out. Apprentice Ng was advised that whilst MING HOI GLORY had begun awkwardly which had resulted in him becoming unbalanced, nonetheless, in the opinion of the Stewards, he should have allowed MING HOI GLORY more rein at the start so as to afford that horse every opportunity to begin with the field. A veterinary inspection of MING HOI GLORY after the race did not show any significant findings. O’HALO and TARREGA were sent for sampling.