14/12/2008  Shatin  Race 4

MUHANNAK, which was fractious in its stall, was slow to begin. In the early and middle stages, MORES WELLS travelled wide and without cover. Approaching the 2200 Metres, AMBITIOUS GENERAL and JACKPOT DELIGHT were checked when crowded for room inside MORES WELLS (D McDonogh) which shifted in initially of its own accord and then was carried in further by DOURO VALLEY (D Beadman) which shifted in when not properly clear. As the Stewards could not be satisfied that one rider was responsible for the incident, both D McDonogh and D Beadman were severely reprimanded and told they would be expected to exercise greater care. Approaching the 2000 Metres, PURPLE MOON was steadied away from the heels of DOURO VALLEY. D Beadman was told to exercise greater care. Throughout the race, JACKPOT DELIGHT proved difficult to settle and near the 1000 Metres was shifted out and allowed to improve its position. Near the 100 Metres, BUCCELLATI was momentarily steadied away from the heels of DOCTOR DINO which shifted in. C Soumillon (THE BOGBERRY) pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding [Rule 100(1)] in that near the 100 Metres he permitted his mount to shift out when not clear of MUHANNAK, causing that horse to lose its rightful running and be checked. C Soumillon was suspended from riding in races for a period to expire on Monday 5 January 2009 on which day he may resume race riding (3 Hong Kong racedays). The commencement of the suspension was deferred until after the racemeeting in Deauville, France on Sunday 21 December 2008. In addition, C Soumillon was fined $40,000 in lieu of a suspension for a period incorporating one further raceday. DOCTOR DINO and PURPLE MOON were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that POSEIDON ADVENTURE had lost its right hind plate.