15/09/2007  Shatin  Race 4

KEEN FLYER, Standby Declared Starter, was withdrawn on 14.9.07 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (lame right hind). Before being allowed to race again, KEEN FLYER will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Initially RACING SPIRIT entered stall 5 instead of its correct stall, No 7. As the Stewards were satisfied this error did not occur as a result of negligence on behalf of O Doleuze, no action was taken. HORSE POWER and HEADINGLEY were slow to begin. GALACTIC TACTIC began awkwardly. In the early stages, SUNNY GOLF and DANABAA hung out. After the 500 Metres, JOYFUL WORLD hung out. Near the 300 Metres, SUNNY GOLF was momentarily awkwardly placed outside the heels of COSMO SUCCESSOR which at this time shifted ground. B Prebble (VIVA FIGHTER) was unable to offer any explanation for the poor performance of the horse. He said he endeavoured to have VIVA FIGHTER travel in as forward a position as possible and at the same time be comfortable. He said passing the 600 Metres the pace of the race quickened and despite being placed under pressure VIVA FIGHTER was not able to maintain its position. He said the manner in which VIVA FIGHTER raced indicated to him that the horse might at this stage of its career be better suited racing over distances of further than the 1000 Metres of today's race. Mr C Fownes, the trainer of VIVA FIGHTER, was unable to offer an explanation for the poor performance of the horse. He said the horse had performed well previously over the course and distance and its work leading into today's race in his opinion had been good. He said because of this the stable felt VIVA FIGHTER would perform well in the race. VIVA FIGHTER was sent for an official veterinary inspection and sampling. A veterinary inspection of VIVA FIGHTER after the race did not show any significant findings. COSMO SUCCESSOR and RACING SPIRIT were sent for sampling.