06/11/2019  Happy Valley  Race 9

FIRST RESPONDER began only fairly and then a short distance after the start raced tight between NAMJONG SINGS and SHANGHAI MASTER. DANCING FIGHTER shifted out at the start and bumped NORDIC WARRIOR. From wide barriers, BEST ALLIANCE and FANTASTIC FEELING were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. After travelling a short distance, NORDIC WARRIOR was shifted across behind runners to obtain cover. Making the turn near the 1050 Metres, BUOYANT BOY was bumped by FIRST RESPONDER which in turn was bumped by SHANGHAI MASTER which got its head on the side and shifted in away from DANCING FIGHTER despite the efforts of its rider. Near the 600 Metres, BUOYANT BOY raced tight inside FIRST RESPONDER which got its head on the side and lay in when awkwardly placed close to the heels of BALLISTIC KING. Passing the 75 Metres, BUOYANT BOY was shifted in away from the heels of YOO YOO KING (K Teetan) which shifted in. K Teetan was advised to exercise more care when shifting ground in similar circumstances. Passing the 50 Metres, NAMJONG SINGS shifted in and bumped MY DARLING. Then close to the finishing line, MY DARLING and NAMJONG SINGS raced tight. For the majority of the race, DANCING FIGHTER travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of FIRST RESPONDER, N Callan stated that at its most recent start FIRST RESPONDER was able to take up a forward position without having to make any use of the horse in the early stages. He said FIRST RESPONDER began only fairly tonight and then after being crowded for room shortly after the start was then able to take up a forward position. He said FIRST RESPONDER became unbalanced when bumped by SHANGHAI MASTER near the 1050 Metres, however, after this FIRST RESPONDER travelled satisfactorily. He said he was able to shift FIRST RESPONDER to the outside of DANCING FIGHTER, the eventual winner, rounding the Home Turn, however, after being placed under pressure FIRST RESPONDER was disappointing in the manner in which it failed to close off the race. A veterinary inspection of FIRST RESPONDER immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. DANCING FIGHTER and YOO YOO KING were sent for sampling.