26/01/2014  Shatin  Race 2

GLAMOROUS HONOUR was withdrawn on 25.1.14 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (sore left fore suspensory) and was replaced by Standby Declared Starter CAPITAL K (W C Marwing). Before being allowed to race again, GLAMOROUS HONOUR will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SUPREME HONG KONG began awkwardly and bumped the hindquarters of SIR JOHN, resulting in SUPREME HONG KONG losing ground. CAPITAL K was hampered at the start by JOY TOGETHER which shifted out. PALEPALE began awkwardly. For the majority of the race, SUNSHINE KID travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of JOY TOGETHER, Z Purton stated that after being reluctant to load into the barriers, JOY TOGETHER, then despite being vigorously ridden along in the early stages, did not muster speed. He said he continued to urge JOY TOGETHER along in the early stages, however, the horse did not show the same early speed that it did at its most recent start when successful over the course and distance. He added at no stage of the race did JOY TOGETHER travel well and gave ground rounding the Home Turn. He said JOY TOGETHER felt sound in its action after the race, however, in his opinion, raced “flat”. Trainer C H Yip stated that he was unable to offer any explanation for the disappointing performance of JOY TOGETHER. He said the horse had pleased him since its last start success and it was expected to race well again today. A veterinary inspection of JOY TOGETHER immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of JOY TOGETHER, a last start winner, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, JOY TOGETHER 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 MAROON PRINCE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. After the race, an endoscopic examination was conducted on SUNSHINE KID at the request of Trainer C W Chang. The Veterinary Surgeon said this examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, SUNSHINE KID will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. JOY TOGETHER, STAR OF WAI BO and THUNDER FLYER were sent for sampling.