29/04/2012  Shatin  Race 8

RULERSHIP began awkwardly. VISCOUNT NELSON was slow to begin. Passing the winning post on the first occasion, MR MEDICI and IRIAN raced tight as IRIAN was steadied away from the heels of RULERSHIP. Passing the 1700 Metres, SWEET ORANGE momentarily raced tight inside ZAIDAN which shifted in when awkwardly placed close to the heels of RULERSHIP. After the 200 Metres, SWEET ORANGE got its head on the side and shifted out under pressure. Throughout the race, COLLECTION travelled wide and without cover and then in the Straight tailed out. A veterinary inspection of COLLECTION after the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of COLLECTION was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, COLLECTION will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of FAY FAY, D Whyte stated that his mount travelled well after obtaining an uncontested lead. He said however that making the turn after the 800 Metres FAY FAY got on its wrong lead leg and shifted out. He said he attempted to correct the horse, however, the more he endeavoured to shift the horse back to the fence, the more FAY FAY was inclined to fight against him. He said for this reason after the 600 Metres he allowed FAY FAY to remain racing in a one-off position. He added FAY FAY continued to lead with its wrong leg until well into the Home Straight. He said after being placed under pressure, FAY FAY, whilst not giving ground abruptly, did not finish off the race and, in his opinion, had come to the end of its preparation. A veterinary inspection of FAY FAY after the race revealed that the horse had sustained a cut to the inside of the left front heel. A veterinary inspection of TREASURE BEACH after the race did not show any significant findings. SWEET ORANGE, RULERSHIP and THUMBS UP were sent for sampling.