06/12/2008  Shatin  Race 8

WATCH WHAT HAPPENS was slow to begin. Throughout the race, ROYAL PERICLES travelled wide and without cover. Y T Cheng (STEP TO WIN) explained from the outside barrier he had been instructed to ride his mount in a midfield position with cover if possible. He said it was anticipated the race would be run at a fast tempo. He said in the early stages he commenced shifting his mount across to find a position with cover, however, as he did this after the 1000 Metres STEP TO WIN commenced to hang out. He said despite his efforts he was unable to shift STEP TO WIN in to a position with cover approaching the turn at the 700 Metres. He said STEP TO WIN then commenced to hang out badly rounding the turns and lost a considerable amount of ground. He said in the early part of the Straight he rebalanced STEP TO WIN, then rode his mount out hands and heels until near the 100 Metres at which point the horse was well beaten. STEP TO WIN was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, STEP TO WIN was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said the horse had sustained a cut to the inside of its left hind pastern. The performance of STEP TO WIN was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, STEP TO WIN will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial around a bend. LUCKY QUALITY and SUNNY GOLF were sent for sampling.