17/09/2008  Happy Valley  Race 4

After arriving at the Start, it was noted PERFECT TREASURE had a laceration to its mouth. PERFECT TREASURE was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. KINGSTON MARBLE began awkwardly, shifted in and made contact with the shoulder of MAGIC KING. As a consequence, KINGSTON MARBLE was slow to muster speed. MAGIC KING and CHOICE AND CHANCE were slow to begin. WIKI WIKI began awkwardly, got its head up and lost ground. CLASSA FOR EVER, which was racing ungenerously, got its head up and made the turn near the 600 Metres awkwardly. Making the turn after the 600 Metres, TREASURE PLANET commenced to hang out badly and making the Home Turn ran off. TREASURE PLANET was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, TREASURE PLANET was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said there were no significant findings. Mr P F Yiu, trainer of TREASURE PLANET, was advised the horse would be required to pass a series of official barrier trials around a bend to the satisfaction of the Stewards prior to being permitted to race again. In addition, Mr Yiu was advised that the record of TREASURE PLANET hanging out in races was of concern to the Stewards and should the horse perform similarly in the future, further action may be taken against it. Near the 400 Metres, KINGSTON MARBLE was momentarily crowded for room inside OPTIC KING. Shortly after straightening, MAGIC KING was steadied and shifted to the inside of PERFECT TREASURE which at this time shifted out. KEEN SOUL and MAGIC KING were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported KEEN SOUL was lame in its left front leg and was distressed. Before being allowed to race again, KEEN SOUL will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Also after the race, it was reported VICTORIOUS DRAGON had bled on the second occasion. VICTORIOUS DRAGON had previously bled following an official barrier trial at Sha Tin on 19 February 2008. Tonight was VICTORIOUS DRAGON’s second race start. The Veterinary Officer said tonight’s bleeding attack was one of significance and as such he recommended the horse was not suitable to continue racing. Mr J Size, trainer of VICTORIOUS DRAGON, undertook to consult with the owner of the horse regarding its future. The Stewards advised Mr Size that in view of the Veterinary Officer’s report, should it not be decided to voluntarily retire VICTORIOUS DRAGON, the Stewards will recommend to the Stewards of the Jockey Club that the horse be compulsorily retired acting under Stewards’ Instruction 8(2)(v).