19/05/2012  Shatin  Race 7

SOUNDS EXCELLENT was slow to begin and then shortly after the start was steadied away from the heels of HEAR THE ROAR which was taken out by FLUKE. Despite being vigorously ridden along in the early stages, SOUNDS EXCELLENT became detached from the field. LET’S GOAL was ridden along in the early stages to obtain a forward position, however, failed to muster sufficient pace to obtain a forward position and after the 1700 Metres was shifted in behind runners to obtain a position closer to the fence. At the 600 Metres, HEAR THE ROAR was awkwardly placed close to the heels of MING HOI TREASURE. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of MING HOI TREASURE, W C Marwing stated that he had been asked to ride the horse behind the speed if possible as was the case at its most recent start. He said however that, from a wide barrier, he was not able to obtain cover on MING HOI TREASURE in the early stages. He said he considered allowing MING HOI TREASURE to stride forward, however, he did not believe that MING HOI TREASURE was travelling well enough to improve its position sufficiently to clear either SUNNY MORE or LOMBARDI which were occupying the leading positions. He said after the 800 Metres MING HOI TREASURE commenced to come under pressure and passing the 600 Metres commenced to give ground. He said despite being ridden along rounding the Home Turn, MING HOI TREASURE dropped out of the race. He added that whilst MING HOI TREASURE was meeting better opposition than it did at its most recent start when successful, nonetheless the horse was disappointing in the manner in which it weakened out of the race. A veterinary inspection of MING HOI TREASURE after the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of MING HOI TREASURE, a last start winner, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, MING HOI TREASURE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of LOMBARDI after the race did not show any significant findings. HEAR THE ROAR, SUNSHINE DAY and SOUNDS EXCELLENT were sent for sampling.