07/04/2015  Shatin  Race 1

On arrival at the Start, A Suborics (SEA SMOKE) expressed concern regarding the horse’s action. SEA SMOKE was examined by the Veterinary Officer who, after the necessary consultations, said the horse was suitable to race. STREET CAT was slow to begin. From the outside barrier, DIAMOND ANGEL began awkwardly and shortly after the start was shifted across behind runners. Approaching the 600 Metres, NEW PET and EASY AHEAD raced tight as NEW PET shifted to the outside of JUST ACE. ON THE WAY was held up for clear running in the early part of the Straight. TAI PO FORTUNE also had some difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight. Near the 350 Metres, JUST ACE, which was giving ground, was momentarily crowded for room between FANTASTICLIFE and ON THE WAY which shifted in when having difficulty obtaining clear running. Passing the 350 Metres, RISING POWER raced tight between BEST JADE TRIUMPH and NEW PET, both of which shifted ground. Passing the 300 Metres, ON THE WAY was hampered by SEA SMOKE which shifted out when giving ground. Near the 200 Metres, SEA SMOKE, which was continuing to give ground, became unbalanced when buffeted for room between ON THE WAY and FANTASTICLIFE (D Whyte) which shifted out. D Whyte was advised to exercise more care. After the race, A Suborics stated that he did not ride SEA SMOKE out for the majority of the Straight as the horse did not feel right in its action. The Veterinary Officer subsequently reported that SEA SMOKE was lame in its right front leg. Before being allowed to race again, SEA SMOKE will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Throughout the race, MIGHTY GAINS travelled wide and without cover. The performance of JUST ACE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, JUST ACE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. After the race, an endoscopic examination was conducted on BEST JADE TRIUMPH at the request of Trainer A Lee. The Veterinary Surgeon reported this examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, BEST JADE TRIUMPH will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of NEW PET immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. ON THE WAY and BEST JADE TRIUMPH were sent for sampling.