28/09/2008  Shatin  Race 3

OPERA MAGIC began awkwardly. Shortly after the start, OPERA MAGIC and LIONS’ FORTUNE lost their positions when crowded for room between BE MY SONG and LONGWAH RISING which on jumping shifted out. After this, OPERA MAGIC failed to muster speed despite being ridden along. From outside barriers, PERFECT SMILE and HANNAH KING PRAWN were taken back. In the middle stages, LIONS’ FORTUNE raced keenly and hung in. At the 500 Metres, SPLENDID SAILS was steadied away from the heels of TYCOON TAYLOR. Making the Home Turn and in the Straight, DIDI hung out. On straightening, OPERA MAGIC was bumped by HANNAH KING PRAWN which shifted out abruptly away from the heels of PERFECT SMILE into clear running. From on straightening until the 150 Metres, LONGWAH RISING was held up and unable to obtain clear running. At the 100 Metres, O’REILLY MAGIC and SPLENDID SAILS brushed. Apprentice K C Leung (OPTIC KING) said he had been asked to allow the horse to travel forward, if it did not show sufficient pace to lead, he should then take a trail. He said OPTIC KING began well, he did not initially ride along to go forward, however, when a number of runners from his outside commenced to show pace, he then applied pressure to his mount to hold its position. He said despite this pressure OPTIC KING did not show speed and consequently travelled behind midfield. Apprentice Leung was told in similar circumstances he would be expected to make a greater effort to position his mounts where instructed when circumstances permit. BE MY SONG and OPERA MAGIC were sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of BE MY SONG and OPERA MAGIC after the race did not show any significant findings. LONGWAH RISING, TYCOON TAYLOR and LIONS’ FORTUNE were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported LIFELINE PEGASUS had spread its right hind plate.