14/09/2014  Shatin  Race 6

Approaching the 800 Metres, MEGA CHAMPION was awkwardly placed close to the heels of AMBASSADORSHIP which was awkwardly placed close to the heels of BEST TANGO for some distance. GOOD CHOICE had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight and then passing the 300 Metres was steadied when disappointed for running between STARTING OVER and JAZZY FEELING which shifted out. Near the 200 Metres, MEGA CHAMPION was awkwardly placed when attempting a run between BEST TANGO and WHY NOT. Over the concluding stages, SUPREME FLIGHT raced in restricted room between OVETT and KING OF REASON. When questioned, J Moreira stated that it had been intended for PRINCIPAL to be ridden in about 4th or 5th position if possible, just behind the speed. He said PRINCIPAL began only fairly and then, despite being ridden along in the early stages, did not show early speed and consequently got back much further than had been intended. He said he then continued to ride the horse along, however, PRINCIPAL did not respond and was not able to improve its position. He added when the tempo of the race slackened in the middle stages, he was obliged to race on the rail inside runners and for this reason he had to ride the horse for luck in the Straight as he was prevented from shifting to the outside of runners. He said he was initially able to improve his position in the early part of the Straight, however, PRINCIPAL was then unable to obtain clear running over about the final 150 Metres and because of this was not able to be fully tested. PRINCIPAL, JAZZY FEELING and SMART BALL were sent for sampling.