26/12/2007  Shatin  Race 2

VITAL PATROL was withdrawn on 25.12.07 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (lame right fore). Before being allowed to race again, VITAL PATROL will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. In the early stages, DOUBLE FANTASY proved difficult to settle. After the 700 Metres, FILEBO was steadied when endeavouring to improve between GEM MASTER and FAST WINNER. Shortly after straightening, FILEBO was steadied and shifted in when disappointed for running between DOUBLE FANTASY and FAST WINNER. In the early part of the Straight, DOUBLE FANTASY hung in and was awkwardly placed close to the heels of LORD CAIRNS. The declaration of weighed-in was deferred whilst the Stewards considered whether DONGGUAN VICTORY had had an unfair start. Evidence was taken from S K Sit, the rider of DONGGUAN VICTORY, and Mr Y S Tsui, trainer of the horse. The evidence disclosed that prior to the start being effected, DONGGUAN VICTORY was standing with its head turned to the left and was being held by an attendant. Just prior to the start being effected, the attendant placed a blindfold over the head of DONGGUAN VICTORY which remained in place as the start was effected. Also as the start was effected, DONGGUAN VICTORY continued to be held by the attendant. As a consequence, DONGGUAN VICTORY lost a considerable amount of ground. In the opinion of the Stewards, DONGGUAN VICTORY had had an unfair start, therefore the horse was declared a non-runner. When questioned regarding the performance of PERFECT ATHLETE, Apprentice C W Wong said his mount was taken on in the lead today, because of this he did not have an opportunity to steady the tempo in the middle stages and as a consequence PERFECT ATHLETE gave ground over the final 200 Metres. He said when PERFECT ATHLETE had performed well at its most recent start, the horse was able to dictate the tempo of the race. PERFECT ATHLETE was sent for an official veterinary inspection and sampling. A veterinary inspection of PERFECT ATHLETE after the race did not show any significant findings. GEM MASTER and LORD CAIRNS were sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, GEM MASTER and LORD CAIRNS were examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in both horses’ tracheas. Before being allowed to race again, GEM MASTER and LORD CAIRNS will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. WITHALLMYHEART and MULTI-WIN SPIRIT were sent for sampling.