21/06/2020  Shatin  Race 8

HELENE LEADINGSTAR began awkwardly and then despite being ridden along in the early stages failed to muster speed. From the outside barrier, HARMONY VICTORY was steadied in the early stages and shifted across behind runners. Approaching and passing the 900 Metres, FURORE and SOUTHERN LEGEND raced tight. Near the 50 Metres, SAVVY NINE was awkwardly placed outside the heels of MORE THAN THIS which shifted out. M L Yeung (DANCES WITH DRAGON) was spoken to regarding using the whip over the concluding stages on a horse which was clearly winning. After the race, Z Purton stated that it was intended for MORE THAN THIS to take up a more prominent position if the horse began well due to an anticipated lack of speed, however, it was not intended for MORE THAN THIS to lead. He said MORE THAN THIS began well and he was able to take up a forward position without having to make use of his horse, however, when FURORE maintained its position inside MORE THAN THIS in the early stages, he was required to allow his mount to stride forward of that horse and into the lead after the 1200 Metres rather than covering unnecessary ground. A veterinary inspection of SOUTHERN LEGEND, MORE THAN THIS and SAVVY NINE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. MORE THAN THIS, DANCES WITH DRAGON and HELENE LEADINGSTAR were sent for sampling. <22/6/2020 Additional Veterinary Report>MORE THAN THIS, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said at that time there were no significant findings. MORE THAN THIS was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer K W Lui this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in its left front leg. Before being allowed to race again, MORE THAN THIS will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.