16/06/2018  Shatin  Race 2

CHAPARRAL STAR shifted out at the start and bumped ELITE POWER. Shortly after the start, EVER STRONG shifted out and made heavy contact with PEACE ON EARTH, causing both horses to become badly unbalanced. After the 600 Metres, MASSIVE MILLENNIUM was awkwardly placed behind PEACE ON EARTH. Passing the 300 Metres, MASSIVE MILLENNIUM was shifted in away from the heels of ELITE POWER to continue improving. Throughout the race, ELITE POWER travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, B Prebble (HAPPY SOUND) stated that he was instructed to obtain a position with cover from the wide barrier if possible. He said it was explained to him that HAPPY SOUND had not shown as much early speed as it had shown previously in recent races and it was felt that the horse would not be able to take up a prominent position in the race. He said after riding his mount along in the early stages, he elected to steady HAPPY SOUND when I’M A WITNESS, which was drawn to the inside of HAPPY SOUND, was being vigorously ridden. He said as he attempted to do this, I’M A WITNESS was not able to then go forward, so he elected to allow HAPPY SOUND to improve its position in advance of I’M A WITNESS which resulted in the horse racing in a position just worse than midfield. A veterinary inspection of AUTOPAY immediately following the race did not show any significant findings, however, the horse was unable to be scoped due to being fractious. A veterinary inspection of I’M A WITNESS immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. SKY TREASURE and SNOWHOOVES were sent for sampling.