21/11/2007  Happy Valley  Race 8

CONGRATS was slow to begin, then lost further ground when crowded for room between ANKH MORPORK and GOOD NATURE. Passing the winning post on the first occasion, DISGUISE was steadied away from the heels of HIGH INTELLIGENT. Near the 1300 Metres, GOOD NATURE bumped the running rail and became unbalanced when crowded for room inside CARRIZO CREEK which shifted in momentarily. No action was taken. At the 50 Metres, WINNING REWARD and DISGUISE bumped. In the Straight, CARRIZO CREEK and NOBLE CONQUEROR hung in. S Dye (GOOD NATURE) said he had been advised the horse had been performing poorly. He said because of this he was instructed to allow the horse which has on occasions in the past over-raced to settle in a rearward position and travel comfortably, then endeavour to improve from about the 500 Metres. He said he rode in accordance with the instructions, however, GOOD NATURE would not relax for him in the early stages. He said making the turn at the 1000 Metres he shifted away from the fence to follow CARRIZO CREEK. He said by doing so he ensured that he would be in a position to have clear running to improve from the 500 Metres. He said making the turn after the 600 Metres GOOD NATURE appeared reluctant to stride out and did not pick up in a manner it has done previously. He said because GOOD NATURE did not lengthen stride, he rode the horse out hands and heels until after the 100 Metres. He said at that stage when struck with the whip GOOD NATURE did not respond. He said in his opinion the manner in which GOOD NATURE raced indicated there was something amiss with the horse, however, it did not show any signs of soreness. S Dye was told his explanation would be reported. GOOD NATURE was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of GOOD NATURE after the race did not show any significant findings. Before being allowed to race again, GOOD NATURE will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. NOBLE CONQUEROR and CONGRATS were sent for sampling.