10/11/2012  Shatin  Race 7

JOYFUL LUCK began awkwardly. Shortly after the start, HONG KONG DANCER was steadied away from the heels of QUANTUM POWER which shifted in. Rounding the Home Turn, SPEEDYGONZALEZ shifted out and bumped FLYING SUPREME which became unbalanced. For the major part of the race, TOUR DE FORCE travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding his riding of GLENEALY STAR in the Straight, Apprentice K C Ng stated that after following HELENE FUN STAR during the race, he shifted out from behind that horse near the 400 Metres to position himself for a run between HELENE FUN STAR and JOYFUL LUCK which he believed was travelling strongly. He said after the 300 Metres he had to steady GLENEALY STAR when disappointed for running between HELENE FUN STAR and JOYFUL LUCK. He said after being held up behind those horses, he endeavoured to find clear running to the outside of JOYFUL LUCK, however, GLENEALY STAR continued to be held up and unable to improve until passing the 150 Metres. He said after obtaining clear running, GLENEALY STAR did not close off the race. He added that as he was attempting to find running to the outside of JOYFUL LUCK, he was unaware that a clear run had developed to the inside of HELENE FUN STAR when that horse shifted away from the fence when under pressure. Apprentice Ng was advised that his explanation would be reported, however, he must ensure that he avails himself of all opportunities to improve his positions. He was told that, in the opinion of the Stewards, he should have shifted his mount to the inside of HELENE FUN STAR and in future he must ensure that he rides his mounts in such a manner that his riding is not open to query. A veterinary inspection of HELENE FUN STAR after the race did not show any significant findings, however, an endoscopic examination was unable to be conducted on the horse. TOUR DE FORCE and LUCKY RECORD were sent for sampling.