20/03/2013  Shatin  Race 2

Just as the start was effected, HERO’S WIN put its head down, resulting in its rider, R Fourie, reaching out with his right arm and grasping the stall partition to maintain balance. Then when the start was effected, HERO’S WIN began awkwardly and lost ground KING OF WINE, which was leaning on the outside of its stall, was slow to begin. Approaching the winning post on the first occasion, SPARKLING raced tight inside DANESOUTH which itself raced tight inside TIPPERARY DAVOR which got its head on the side and shifted in. A short distance later, SPARKLING was checked when crowded for room inside DANESOUTH which was taken in by TIPPERARY DAVOR which at this time was taken in by HANDSOME BATCHELOR (C Y Ho) which, when being steadied to obtain a position behind FANTASTISCH, shifted in. C Y Ho was severely reprimanded and advised that whilst there were some circumstances to this incident, nonetheless he must ensure that he leaves sufficient racing room for runners to his inside in future. Near the 1200 Metres, BEST NOODLE was left racing wide and without cover and was consequently allowed to stride into a more forward position. SPARKLING had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight. Passing the 300 Metres, DANESOUTH was steadied and shifted to the outside of MR MARFACH when disappointed for running between that horse and BEST NOODLE which shifted out when giving ground. A veterinary inspection of FANTASTISCH immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. HANDSOME BATCHELOR, TIPPERARY DAVOR and MR MARFACH were sent for sampling. <21/3/2013 Additional Veterinary Report>FANTASTISCH, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said at that time there were no significant findings. FANTASTISCH was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer R Gibson this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in its right hind leg with a superficial wound over the right hind tendon. Before being allowed to race again, FANTASTISCH will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.