19/05/2021  Happy Valley  Race 1

DIAMOND STAR began only fairly. RED MAJESTY began only fairly, shifted in and brushed the hindquarters of CENTENARY IBIS. From a wide barrier, INDIGENOUS STAR was shifted across behind runners in the early stages. In the early stages, FIRE AND GOLD failed to muster speed and passing the 1600 Metres was shifted across behind runners to obtain cover. Near the 1550 Metres, CENTENARY IBIS and RED MAJESTY bumped. Passing the 1300 Metres, CENTENARY IBIS was steadied away from the heels of RED MAJESTY (Z Purton) which shifted in when not properly clear. RED MAJESTY was then directed out to relieve the tightening to CENTENARY IBIS. Z Purton was severely reprimanded and told to ensure that he provides sufficient clearance when shifting ground in similar circumstances. Passing the 250 Metres, BABY STORM was awkwardly placed behind VIRTUS STAR when being shifted to the outside of that horse. DIAMOND STAR lay out under pressure in the Straight. Throughout the race, VIRTUS STAR travelled wide and without cover and in the Straight gave ground. When questioned, M L Yeung stated that in pre-race discussions with the connections of CALIFORNIA LEGEND, it was felt that there were a number of horses that were drawn better than CALIFORNIA LEGEND which had been ridden in a forward position previously. He said it was therefore felt that too much use may have to be made of CALIFORNIA LEGEND to cross runners to its inside to take up a forward position and the horse may not be able to finish off its race. He said he was therefore asked to steady CALIFORNIA LEGEND from a wide barrier and obtain a position in about midfield or behind midfield with cover. A veterinary inspection of BABY STORM and VIRTUS STAR immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. RED MAJESTY and WONDERFUL TIGER were sent for sampling.