17/02/2019  Shatin  Race 3

DELIGHT EXPRESS was slow to begin and was then crowded for room between COMPASSION STAR and ROYAL RACER which shifted out. GREEN CARD began only fairly and then after the 900 Metres was left racing wide and without cover. SAM’S LOVE began awkwardly. ENJOY LIFE began awkwardly, shifted out and bumped the hindquarters of GOLDEN FOUR, causing both horses to become unbalanced. From the outside barrier, HIGH REV was steadied in the early stages and shifted across behind runners. After the 500 Metres, SAM’S LOVE and VITAL SPRING raced tight as VITAL SPRING shifted out to obtain clear running. Near the 350 Metres, ROYAL RACER raced tight between TRIUMPHANT LORD and COMPASSION STAR which shifted in marginally when giving ground. After the race, M L Yeung reported that COMPASSION STAR came under pressure to maintain its position passing the 600 Metres and then weakened noticeably in the Home Straight despite being tested. A veterinary inspection of COMPASSION STAR immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of COMPASSION STAR, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, COMPASSION STAR will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SAM’S LOVE, GREEN CARD and GOLDEN FOUR were sent for sampling.