09/09/2007  Shatin  Race 8

After being boxed, ABLE PRINCE became fractious and as the start was effected sat back and as a consequence lost a considerable amount of ground. After this, ABLE PRINCE trailed the field throughout. The performance of ABLE PRINCE was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, ABLE PRINCE will have to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial. GREEN BIRDIE was slow to begin. After the 600 Metres, FIRM OFFER was awkwardly placed behind YELLOW DIAMOND and tight inside GREEN BIRDIE. On straightening, FIRM OFFER was checked and shifted out abruptly to avoid the heels of YELLOW DIAMOND which at this time shifted out after initially being carried out by SAN LORENZO. When YELLOW DIAMOND shifted out, it bumped GREEN BIRDIE. Throughout the race, PLANET RULER travelled wide and without cover. As the Stewards were satisfied the riding of G Mossé (PLANET RULER) passing the 50 Metres did not affect the horse's finishing position, no action was taken, however, he was advised he must at all times ride his mounts out in an appropriate manner. When questioned regarding the poor performance of HELENE BRILLIANT, B Prebble said his mount travelled only fairly in the early stages. He said at the 800 Metres he became concerned with the horse's action and the horse immediately commenced to hang in. He said HELENE BRILLIANT continued to hang in and when placed under pressure shortly after straightening failed to respond to his riding. He said following the race he continued to be concerned with the action of HELENE BRILLIANT. The performance of HELENE BRILLIANT was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, HELENE BRILLIANT will have to perform competitively in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. HELENE BRILLIANT was sent for an official veterinary inspection and sampling. YELLOW DIAMOND was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of HELENE BRILLIANT and YELLOW DIAMOND after the race did not show any significant findings. SUNNY POWER and EGYPTIAN RA were sent for sampling. Additional Veterinary Reports (released on 10 September 2007) HELENE BRILLIANT, which performed poorly, was examined by the Head of Veterinary Regulation & International Liaison. He said at that time there were no significant findings. HELENE BRILLIANT was again examined by the Head of Veterinary Regulation & International Liaison at the stables of Trainer A S Cruz this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be “jarred up” on both front fetlocks. As previously advised, HELENE BRILLIANT will have to perform competitively in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination before being allowed to race again.