02/02/2008  Shatin  Race 1

MAGIC KING began awkwardly, got its head up and lost ground. GLORIOUS FEELING was slow to begin. GLENEALY ELITE began awkwardly and lost ground, then in the early stages proved difficult to settle. For some distance approaching and passing the 300 Metres, OWNERS LAD and FLORAL JOY II raced tight as FLORAL JOY II endeavoured to shift to the inside of NEWSWIRE TOO to obtain clear running. At the 200 Metres, NEWSWIRE TOO, which was commencing to give ground, was steadied when awkwardly placed outside the heels of FLORAL JOY II (Apprentice K L Chui) which shifted out slightly. Apprentice Chui was advised to exercise care. When under pressure after the 200 Metres, GLENEALY ELITE raced greenly. Just prior to the winning post, GLENEALY ELITE was checked when crowded for room inside LUCKY RED which initially shifted in of its own accord, then shifted in away from FLORAL JOY II which also shifted in. In the circumstances, no action was taken. B Prebble (HAPPEE GIFT) explained at the horse’s first race start when ridden in the lead, it tired badly and performed poorly. He said because of this today he allowed HAPPEE GIFT to become balanced rather than ride it along in the early stages. He said as a consequence HAPPEE GIFT travelled well back, however, when placed under pressure after the 500 Metres responded well to his riding. He did say after the 200 Metres when endeavouring to improve between runners, HAPPEE GIFT which is still immature was reluctant to take runs. Apprentice C W Wong (MAGIC KING) explained in his opinion the horse’s poor performance was due to its failure to handle today’s wet track conditions. GLORIOUS FEELING was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, GLORIOUS FEELING was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said the horse had bled from both nostrils. FLORAL JOY II and CHEEKY LAD were sent for sampling.