06/12/2020  Shatin  Race 2

SUPREME PATROL stumbled at the start. TARGET FINDER was inconvenienced by VIVA COUNCIL which shifted out on jumping. From wide barriers, MONEYMORE and STRONG PROMISE were shifted across behind runners shortly after the start. Despite being hard ridden for a considerable distance in the early stages, SKY TREASURE failed to muster speed. Approaching the 800 Metres, MONEYMORE, which was being eased to obtain cover, was steadied away from the heels of TARGET FINDER which shifted out. After the 700 Metres, SUPREME PATROL was left racing wide and without cover. Making the turn near the 700 Metres, TELECOM MISSILE lay out towards the heels of SUPREME PATROL. After this, TELECOM MISSILE continued to lay out and made the turn awkwardly. Also making the turn after the 700 Metres, FOX CHEUNGER lay out and was awkwardly placed inside the heels of STRONG PROMISE. Shortly after entering the Straight, STRONG PROMISE went amiss and was eased down. A veterinary inspection of STRONG PROMISE immediately following the race found that horse to have sustained an injury to the left front leg. Approaching and passing the 200 Metres, FOX CHEUNGER was shifted out a number of horses to obtain clear running. When questioned, Apprentice C L Chau stated that he was asked to ride VIVA COUNCIL positively in the early stages and obtain the lead on the rail if possible as it is believed that the horse races better when able to race near the rail. He said, despite riding his mount along for some distance in the early stages, VIVA COUNCIL did not show sufficient speed to be able to cross to race on the rail and it was not until after the 700 Metres that VIVA COUNCIL was able to cross REGENCY POET to race outside TREASURE CHEST. He added VIVA COUNCIL came under pressure rounding the Home Turn and then did not quicken for him. He said he placed the horse under heavy pressure at the entrance to the Straight, however, VIVA COUNCIL gave ground noticeably over the latter stages of the race. A veterinary inspection of VIVA COUNCIL immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of VIVA COUNCIL, favourite for much of today’s betting, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, VIVA COUNCIL will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of REGENCY POET and MONEYMORE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. TREASURE CHEST and STRATHCLYDE were sent for sampling. Samples were also taken from STRONG PROMISE.