24/02/2019  Shatin  Race 2

TIME TO CELEBRATE began awkwardly and shifted out at the start, resulting in EPIC being crowded for room inside GOLD CHEST which became unbalanced when bumped by EPIC. Passing the 200 Metres, EPIC momentarily raced tight between CALIFORNIA WHIP and SUPERICH (S de Sousa) which shifted in marginally. In this incident, EPIC was struck across the nose by the whip of S de Sousa. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SUPERICH, S de Sousa stated that, in his opinion, the horse did not see out the distance of today’s race. He said whilst SUPERICH travelled keenly in the middle stages, this did not explain the horse not being able to finish off the race. He said near the 550 Metres SUPERICH was awkwardly placed behind GOLD CHEST when TIME TO CELEBRATE improved quickly to the outside of SUPERICH as he was attempting to shift SUPERICH to the outside of GOLD CHEST. He said near the 500 Metres he shifted out to follow TIME TO CELEBRATE, however, that horse displayed a better turn of foot in the early part of the Straight and was able to establish a margin over SUPERICH. He added despite being placed under pressure, SUPERICH did not close off the race as anticipated. A veterinary inspection of SUPERICH immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. TIME TO CELEBRATE and GOLD CHEST were sent for sampling. <25/2/2019 Additional Veterinary Report>SUPERICH, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said at that time there were no significant findings. SUPERICH was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer F C Lor this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to have a very stiff and restricted action. Before being allowed to race again, SUPERICH will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.