02/11/2008  Shatin  Race 2

BAYVIEW GREYSLEW began awkwardly, shifted out and bumped REAL PLEASURE. On jumping, ODE TO JOY was bumped by SKY WALKER. After this, ODE TO JOY failed to muster speed. Also on jumping, EXQUISITE YIELD was taken across behind runners. Near the 1000 Metres, REAL PLEASURE was steadied away from the heels of BAYVIEW GREYSLEW after becoming unbalanced and shifting in when bumped by ODE TO JOY which was carried in by SKY WALKER (E Saint-Martin). E Saint-Martin was severely reprimanded and told to exercise greater care. In this incident, ODE TO JOY also lost its position. TRUE INTELLIGENCE made the turn at the 800 Metres awkwardly after being crowded for room between WHATAFANTASY and TYCOON TAYLOR. In the early and middle stages, TYCOON TAYLOR travelled wide and without cover. At the 700 Metres, REAL PLEASURE was steadied away from the heels of BAYVIEW GREYSLEW. Passing the 300 Metres, BAYVIEW GREYSLEW had some difficulty obtaining clear running. O Doleuze (WHATAFANTASY) explained that the horse does not possess natural speed and is generally lazy. He said the connections had been somewhat disappointed with the recent performances of WHATAFANTASY when the horse had raced in a rearward position. He said from the inside barrier today he was asked to do his utmost to take advantage of the draw and if possible have WHATAFANTASY travel in a more forward position. He said in accordance with those instructions he rode WHATAFANTASY vigorously throughout the race and it was able to obtain a position behind the speed. ASALI VICTORY and ODE TO JOY were sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of ASALI VICTORY and ODE TO JOY after the race did not show any significant findings. TYCOON TAYLOR, CLASSA SUPREME and WHATAFANTASY were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that CLASSA SUPREME had shown signs of “thumps”. Before being allowed to race again, CLASSA SUPREME will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.