01/07/2017  Shatin  Race 9

SKY KING began only fairly and then in the early stages, despite being ridden vigorously, became detached from the field. Shortly after the start, when racing very wide, PRETTY BAUHINIA was steadied and shifted across behind runners to obtain cover. Despite being hard ridden in the early stages, CHEERFUL BOY failed to muster speed and then passing the 900 Metres was left racing wide and without cover. Approaching the 1300 Metres, RADIANT TREASURE raced tight inside CHEERFUL BOY which shifted in when being ridden along. After this, RADIANT TREASURE proved very difficult to settle and got its head up continuously between the 1200 Metres and the 1000 Metres when racing intractably. Then after the 1000 Metres, RADIANT TREASURE shifted out abruptly when continuing to prove very difficult to settle. The racing manners of RADIANT TREASURE were considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, RADIANT TREASURE will be required to perform satisfactorily in a barrier trial. Passing the 1200 Metres, SUNNY WAY was steadied away from the heels of CARE FREE PRINCE (Apprentice H N Wong) which shifted in when not properly clear. Apprentice Wong was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground in future. Approaching the 700 Metres, INDIGENOUS UNION got its head on the side and lay out when awkwardly placed behind HARD BALL GET. Approaching the 500 Metres, BRAVE LEGEND raced tight outside HARD BALL GET which shifted to the outside of AMAZING. Passing the 350 Metres, HARD BALL GET was shifted out away from the heels of SAM’S LOVE which shifted out after being bumped by AMAZING. The performance of WHAT MAN HORSE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, WHAT MAN HORSE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. After the race, J Moreira was not able to offer any explanation for the disappointing performance of SAM’S LOVE. He said after taking up a forward position from a wide barrier, SAM’S LOVE travelled well in the middle stages, however, came under pressure rounding the Home Turn and then did not finish off the race. A veterinary inspection of SAM’S LOVE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that HARD BALL GET had sustained a wound to the right front pastern. A veterinary inspection of CHEERFUL BOY and PRETTY BAUHINIA immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. SAM’S LOVE, HARD BALL GET and AMAZING were sent for sampling.